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Audouard E, Khefif N, Gillet-Legrand B, Nobilleau F, Bouazizi O, Stanga S, Despres G, Alves S, Lamazière A, Cartier N, Piguet F. Modulation of Brain Cholesterol Metabolism through CYP46A1 Overexpression for Rett Syndrome. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:756. [PMID: 38931878 PMCID: PMC11207948 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16060756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutation in the X-linked gene methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (Mecp2), a ubiquitously expressed transcriptional regulator. RTT results in mental retardation and developmental regression that affects approximately 1 in 10,000 females. Currently, there is no curative treatment for RTT. Thus, it is crucial to develop new therapeutic approaches for children suffering from RTT. Several studies suggested that RTT is linked with defects in cholesterol homeostasis, but for the first time, therapeutic evaluation is carried out by modulating this pathway. Moreover, AAV-based CYP46A1 overexpression, the enzyme involved in cholesterol pathway, has been demonstrated to be efficient in several neurodegenerative diseases. Based on these data, we strongly believe that CYP46A1 could be a relevant therapeutic target for RTT. Herein, we evaluated the effects of intravenous AAVPHP.eB-hCYP46A1-HA delivery in male and female Mecp2-deficient mice. The applied AAVPHP.eB-hCYP46A1 transduced essential neurons of the central nervous system (CNS). CYP46A1 overexpression alleviates behavioral alterations in both male and female Mecp2 knockout mice and extends the lifespan in Mecp2-deficient males. Several parameters related to cholesterol pathway are improved and correction of mitochondrial activity is demonstrated in treated mice, which highlighted the clear therapeutic benefit of CYP46A1 through the neuroprotection effect. IV delivery of AAVPHP.eB-CYP46A1 is perfectly well tolerated with no inflammation observed in the CNS of the treated mice. Altogether, our results strongly suggest that CYP46A1 is a relevant target and overexpression could alleviate the phenotype of Rett patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Audouard
- TIDU GENOV, Institut du Cerveau, ICM, F-75013 Paris, France;
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
| | - Nicolas Khefif
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
| | - Béatrix Gillet-Legrand
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
| | - Fanny Nobilleau
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
| | - Ouafa Bouazizi
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
| | - Serena Stanga
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, 10043 Orbassano, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Gaëtan Despres
- Saint Antoine Research Center, INSERM UMR 938, Département de Métabolomique Clinique, Hôpital Saint Antoine, AP-HP Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France
| | - Sandro Alves
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
| | - Antonin Lamazière
- Saint Antoine Research Center, INSERM UMR 938, Département de Métabolomique Clinique, Hôpital Saint Antoine, AP-HP Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Cartier
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
| | - Françoise Piguet
- TIDU GENOV, Institut du Cerveau, ICM, F-75013 Paris, France;
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
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2
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Mast N, Butts M, Pikuleva IA. Unbiased insights into the multiplicity of the CYP46A1 brain effects in 5XFAD mice treated with low dose-efavirenz. J Lipid Res 2024; 65:100555. [PMID: 38719151 PMCID: PMC11176809 DOI: 10.1016/j.jlr.2024.100555] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Cytochrome P450 46A1 (CYP46A1) is the CNS-specific cholesterol 24-hydroxylase that controls cholesterol elimination and turnover in the brain. In mouse models, pharmacologic CYP46A1 activation with low-dose efavirenz or by gene therapy mitigates the manifestations of various brain disorders, neurologic, and nonneurologic, by affecting numerous, apparently unlinked biological processes. Accordingly, CYP46A1 is emerging as a promising therapeutic target; however, the mechanisms underlying the multiplicity of the brain CYP46A1 activity effects are currently not understood. We proposed the chain reaction hypothesis, according to which CYP46A1 is important for the three primary (unifying) processes in the brain (sterol flux through the plasma membranes, acetyl-CoA, and isoprenoid production), which in turn affect a variety of secondary processes. We already identified several processes secondary to changes in sterol flux and herein undertook a multiomics approach to compare the brain proteome, acetylproteome, and metabolome of 5XFAD mice (an Alzheimer's disease model), control and treated with low-dose efavirenz. We found that the latter had increased production of phospholipids from the corresponding lysophospholipids and a globally increased protein acetylation (including histone acetylation). Apparently, these effects were secondary to increased acetyl-CoA production. Signaling of small GTPases due to their altered abundance or abundance of their regulators could be affected as well, potentially via isoprenoid biosynthesis. In addition, the omics data related differentially abundant molecules to other biological processes either reported previously or new. Thus, we obtained unbiased mechanistic insights and identified potential players mediating the multiplicity of the CYP46A1 brain effects and further detailed our chain reaction hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Mast
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Makaya Butts
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Irina A Pikuleva
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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3
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Liu Z, Shi C, Wang B, Zhang X, Ding J, Gao P, Yuan X, Liu Z, Zhang H. Cytochrome P450 enzymes in the black-spotted frog ( Pelophylax nigromaculatus): molecular characterization and upregulation of expression by sulfamethoxazole. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1412943. [PMID: 38784115 PMCID: PMC11112259 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1412943] [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: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes are crucial for the detoxification of xenobiotics, cellular metabolism, and homeostasis. This study investigated the molecular characterization of CYP enzymes in the black-spotted frog, Pelophylax nigromaculatus, and examined the regulation of CYP expression in response to chronic exposure to the antibiotic sulfamethoxazole (SMX) at various environmental concentrations (0, 1, 10, and 100 μg/L). The full-length cDNA of Pn-CYP26B1 was identified. The sequence included open reading frames of 1,536 bp, encoding proteins comprising 511 amino acids. The signature motif, FxxGxxxCxG, was highly conserved when compared with a number of selected animal species. SMX significantly upregulated the expression of the protein CYP26B1 in frog livers at concentrations of 1 and 10 μg/L. SMX showed an affinity for CYP26B1 of -7.6 kcal/mol, indicating a potential mechanism for SMX detoxification or adaptation of the frog. These findings contributed to our understanding of the environmental impact of antibiotics on amphibian species and underscored the importance of CYP enzymes in maintaining biochemical homeostasis under exposure to xenobiotic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqun Liu
- Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chaoli Shi
- Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | | | | | - Jiafeng Ding
- Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Urban Wetlands and Regional Change, Hangzhou, China
| | - Panpan Gao
- Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Urban Wetlands and Regional Change, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xia Yuan
- Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Urban Wetlands and Regional Change, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiquan Liu
- Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Urban Wetlands and Regional Change, Hangzhou, China
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Health Impact Assessment of Emerging Contaminants, Shanghai Academy of Environment Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Hangjun Zhang
- Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Urban Wetlands and Regional Change, Hangzhou, China
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4
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Ahmed H, Wang Y, Griffiths WJ, Levey AI, Pikuleva I, Liang SH, Haider A. Brain cholesterol and Alzheimer's disease: challenges and opportunities in probe and drug development. Brain 2024; 147:1622-1635. [PMID: 38301270 PMCID: PMC11068113 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awae028] [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: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol homeostasis is impaired in Alzheimer's disease; however, attempts to modulate brain cholesterol biology have not translated into tangible clinical benefits for patients to date. Several recent milestone developments have substantially improved our understanding of how excess neuronal cholesterol contributes to the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease. Indeed, neuronal cholesterol was linked to the formation of amyloid-β and neurofibrillary tangles through molecular pathways that were recently delineated in mechanistic studies. Furthermore, remarkable advances in translational molecular imaging have now made it possible to probe cholesterol metabolism in the living human brain with PET, which is an important prerequisite for future clinical trials that target the brain cholesterol machinery in Alzheimer's disease patients-with the ultimate aim being to develop disease-modifying treatments. This work summarizes current concepts of how the biosynthesis, transport and clearance of brain cholesterol are affected in Alzheimer's disease. Further, current strategies to reverse these alterations by pharmacotherapy are critically discussed in the wake of emerging translational research tools that support the assessment of brain cholesterol biology not only in animal models but also in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazem Ahmed
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Center for Radiopharmaceutical Sciences ETH-PSI-USZ, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences ETH, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Yuqin Wang
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - William J Griffiths
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Allan I Levey
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Irina Pikuleva
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Steven H Liang
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Ahmed Haider
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Department of Radiology, Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
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5
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Stahl F, Evert BO, Han X, Breuer P, Wüllner U. Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 3 Pathophysiology-Implications for Translational Research and Clinical Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3984. [PMID: 38612794 PMCID: PMC11012515 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073984] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA) comprise a group of inherited neurodegenerative diseases. Machado-Joseph Disease (MJD) or spinocerebellar ataxia 3 (SCA3) is the most common autosomal dominant form, caused by the expansion of CAG repeats within the ataxin-3 (ATXN3) gene. This mutation results in the expression of an abnormal protein containing long polyglutamine (polyQ) stretches that confers a toxic gain of function and leads to misfolding and aggregation of ATXN3 in neurons. As a result of the neurodegenerative process, SCA3 patients are severely disabled and die prematurely. Several screening approaches, e.g., druggable genome-wide and drug library screenings have been performed, focussing on the reduction in stably overexpressed ATXN3(polyQ) protein and improvement in the resultant toxicity. Transgenic overexpression models of toxic ATXN3, however, missed potential modulators of endogenous ATXN3 regulation. In another approach to identify modifiers of endogenous ATXN3 expression using a CRISPR/Cas9-modified SK-N-SH wild-type cell line with a GFP-T2A-luciferase (LUC) cassette under the control of the endogenous ATXN3 promotor, four statins were identified as potential activators of expression. We here provide an overview of the high throughput screening approaches yet performed to find compounds or genomic modifiers of ATXN3(polyQ) toxicity in different SCA3 model organisms and cell lines to ameliorate and halt SCA3 progression in patients. Furthermore, the putative role of cholesterol in neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) in general and SCA3 in particular is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Stahl
- German Centre for Neurodegenerative Disease (DZNE), 53127 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Bernd O. Evert
- Departments of Neurology and Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (B.O.E.); (X.H.); (P.B.)
| | - Xinyu Han
- Departments of Neurology and Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (B.O.E.); (X.H.); (P.B.)
| | - Peter Breuer
- Departments of Neurology and Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (B.O.E.); (X.H.); (P.B.)
| | - Ullrich Wüllner
- German Centre for Neurodegenerative Disease (DZNE), 53127 Bonn, Germany;
- Departments of Neurology and Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (B.O.E.); (X.H.); (P.B.)
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6
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Mast N, Li Y, Pikuleva IA. 7,8-Dihydroxy Efavirenz Is Not as Effective in CYP46A1 Activation In Vivo as Efavirenz or Its 8,14-Dihydroxy Metabolite. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2242. [PMID: 38396919 PMCID: PMC10889178 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042242] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
High dose (S)-efavirenz (EFV) inhibits the HIV reverse transcriptase enzyme and is used to lower HIV load. Low-dose EFV allosterically activates CYP46A1, the key enzyme for cholesterol elimination from the brain, and is investigated as a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease. Simultaneously, we evaluate EFV dihydroxymetabolites for in vivo brain effects to compare with those of (S)-EFV. We have already tested (rac)-8,14dihydroxy EFV on 5XFAD mice, a model of Alzheimer's disease. Herein, we treated 5XFAD mice with (rac)-7,8dihydroxy EFV. In both sexes, the treatment modestly activated CYP46A1 in the brain and increased brain content of acetyl-CoA and acetylcholine. Male mice also showed a decrease in the brain levels of insoluble amyloid β40 peptides. However, the treatment had no effect on animal performance in different memory tasks. Thus, the overall brain effects of (rac)-7,8dihydroxy EFV were weaker than those of EFV and (rac)-8,14dihydroxy EFV and did not lead to cognitive improvements as were seen in treatments with EFV and (rac)-8,14dihydroxy EFV. An in vitro study assessing CYP46A1 activation in co-incubations with EFV and (rac)-7,8dihydroxy EFV or (rac)-8,14dihydroxy EFV was carried out and provided insight into the compound doses and ratios that could be used for in vivo co-treatments with EFV and its dihydroxymetabolite.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Irina A. Pikuleva
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (N.M.); (Y.L.)
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7
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Masson EAY, Serrano J, Leger-Charnay E, Acar N. Cholesterol and oxysterols in retinal neuron-glia interactions: relevance for glaucoma. FRONTIERS IN OPHTHALMOLOGY 2024; 3:1303649. [PMID: 38983043 PMCID: PMC11182186 DOI: 10.3389/fopht.2023.1303649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Cholesterol is an essential component of cellular membranes, crucial for maintaining their structural and functional integrity. It is especially important for nervous tissues, including the retina, which rely on high amounts of plasma membranes for the transmission of the nervous signal. While cholesterol is by far the most abundant sterol, the retina also contains cholesterol precursors and metabolites, especially oxysterols, which are bioactive molecules. Cholesterol lack or excess is deleterious and some oxysterols are known for their effect on neuron survival. Cholesterol homeostasis must therefore be maintained. Retinal glial cells, especially Müller cells, the principal glial cells of the vertebrate retina, provide mechanical, nutritional, and metabolic support for the neighboring neurons. Several pieces of evidence indicate that Müller cells are major actors of cholesterol homeostasis in the retina, as it is known for other glial cells in the brain. This process is based on a close cooperation with neurons, and sterols can be signaling molecules participating in glia-neuron interactions. While some implication of cholesterol in age-related macular degeneration is now recognized, based on epidemiological and laboratory data, evidence for its role in glaucoma is still scarce. The association between cholesterolemia and glaucoma is controversial, but experimental data suggest that sterols could take part in the pathological processes. It has been demonstrated that Müller glial cells are implicated in the development of glaucoma through an ambivalent reactive retinal gliosis process. The early steps contribute to maintaining retinal homeostasis and favor the survival of ganglion cells, which are targeted during glaucoma. If gliosis persists, dysregulation of the neuroprotective functions, cytotoxic effects of gliotic Müller cells and disruption of glia-neuron interactions lead to an acceleration of ganglion cell death. Sterols could play a role in the glial cell response to glaucomatous injury. This represents an understudied but attractive topic to better understand glaucoma and conceive novel preventive or curative strategies. The present review describes the current knowledge on i) sterol metabolism in retinal glial cells, ii) the potential role of cholesterol in glaucoma, and iii) the possible relationships between cholesterol and oxysterols, glial cells and glaucoma. Focus is put on glia-neuron interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elodie A Y Masson
- Eye and Nutrition Research Group, Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, CNRS, INRAE, Institut Agro, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Jeanne Serrano
- Eye and Nutrition Research Group, Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, CNRS, INRAE, Institut Agro, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
- Sensory Perception, Glia/Neuron Interaction Research Group, Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, CNRS, INRAE, Institut Agro, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Elise Leger-Charnay
- Eye and Nutrition Research Group, Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, CNRS, INRAE, Institut Agro, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Niyazi Acar
- Eye and Nutrition Research Group, Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l'Alimentation, CNRS, INRAE, Institut Agro, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
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8
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Ghosh S, Ghzaiel I, Vejux A, Meaney S, Nag S, Lizard G, Tripathi G, Naez F, Paul S. Impact of Oxysterols in Age-Related Disorders and Strategies to Alleviate Adverse Effects. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1440:163-191. [PMID: 38036880 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-43883-7_9] [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: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Oxysterols or cholesterol oxidation products are a class of molecules with the sterol moiety, derived from oxidative reaction of cholesterol through enzymatic and non-enzymatic processes. They are widely reported in animal-origin foods and prove significant involvement in the regulation of cholesterol homeostasis, lipid transport, cellular signaling, and other physiological processes. Reports of oxysterol-mediated cytotoxicity are in abundance and thus consequently implicated in several age-related and lifestyle disorders such as cardiovascular diseases, bone disorders, pancreatic disorders, age-related macular degeneration, cataract, neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and some types of cancers. In this chapter, we attempt to review a selection of physiologically relevant oxysterols, with a focus on their formation, properties, and roles in health and disease, while also delving into the potential of natural and synthetic molecules along with bacterial enzymes for mitigating oxysterol-mediated cell damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubhrima Ghosh
- Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - Imen Ghzaiel
- Bio-PeroxIL Laboratory, EA7270, University of Bourgogne & Inserm, Dijon, France
- Faculty of Medicine, Laboratory 'Nutrition, Functional Food and Vascular Health' (LR12ES05), University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Anne Vejux
- Bio-PeroxIL Laboratory, EA7270, University of Bourgogne & Inserm, Dijon, France
| | - Steve Meaney
- School of Biological, Health and Sports Sciences, Technological University Dublin, Dublin 7, Ireland
| | - Sagnik Nag
- Department of Bio-Sciences, School of Biosciences & Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Gérard Lizard
- Bio-PeroxIL Laboratory, EA7270, University of Bourgogne & Inserm, Dijon, France
| | - Garima Tripathi
- Department of Bio-Sciences, School of Biosciences & Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Falal Naez
- Department of Microbiology, Vijaygarh Jyotish Ray College, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India
| | - Srijita Paul
- Department of Microbiology, Gurudas College, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
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9
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Ksila M, Ghzaiel I, Sassi K, Zarrouk A, Leoni V, Poli G, Rezig L, Pires V, Meziane S, Atanasov AG, Hammami S, Hammami M, Masmoudi-Kouki O, Hamdi O, Jouanny P, Samadi M, Vejux A, Ghrairi T, Lizard G. Therapeutic Applications of Oxysterols and Derivatives in Age-Related Diseases, Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, and Cancers. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1440:379-400. [PMID: 38036890 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-43883-7_19] [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: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Oxysterols, resulting from the oxidation of cholesterol, are formed either by autoxidation, enzymatically, or by both processes. These molecules, which are provided in more or less important quantities depending on the type of diet, are also formed in the body and their presence is associated with a normal physiological activity. Their increase and decrease at the cellular level and in biological fluids can have significant consequences on health due or not to the interaction of some of these molecules with different types of receptors but also because oxysterols are involved in the regulation of RedOx balance, cytokinic and non-cytokinic inflammation, lipid metabolism, and induction of cell death. Currently, various pathologies such as age-related diseases, inflammatory and infectious diseases, and several cancers are associated with abnormal levels of oxysterols. Due to the important biological activities of oxysterols, their interaction with several receptors and their very likely implications in several diseases, this review focuses on these molecules and on oxysterol derivatives, which are often more efficient, in a therapeutic context. Currently, several oxysterol derivatives are developed and are attracting a lot of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ksila
- Bio-PeroxIL Laboratory, EA7270, University of Bourgogne & Inserm, Dijon, France
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Cellular Physiopathology and Valorisation of Biomolecules (LR18ES03), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Imen Ghzaiel
- Bio-PeroxIL Laboratory, EA7270, University of Bourgogne & Inserm, Dijon, France
- Laboratory of Rangeland Ecosystems and Valorization of Spontaneous Plants and Associated Microorganisms (LR16IRA03), Arid Regions Institute, University of Gabes, Medenine, Tunisia
| | - Khouloud Sassi
- Bio-PeroxIL Laboratory, EA7270, University of Bourgogne & Inserm, Dijon, France
| | - Amira Zarrouk
- Laboratory of Rangeland Ecosystems and Valorization of Spontaneous Plants and Associated Microorganisms (LR16IRA03), Arid Regions Institute, University of Gabes, Medenine, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Sousse, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Valerio Leoni
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Milano-Bicocca, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale Brianza ASST-Brianza, Desio Hospital, Desio, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Poli
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, San Luigi Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Leila Rezig
- University of Carthage, National Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology, LR11ES26, LIP-MB 'Laboratory of Protein Engineering and Bioactive Molecules', Tunis, Tunisia
- University of Carthage, High Institute of Food Industries, El Khadra City, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Vivien Pires
- Bio-PeroxIL Laboratory, EA7270, University of Bourgogne & Inserm, Dijon, France
| | - Smail Meziane
- Institut Européen des Antioxydants (IEA), Neuves-Maisons, France
| | - Atanas G Atanasov
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Magdalenka, Poland
| | - Sonia Hammami
- Laboratory of Rangeland Ecosystems and Valorization of Spontaneous Plants and Associated Microorganisms (LR16IRA03), Arid Regions Institute, University of Gabes, Medenine, Tunisia
- University Hospital Fattouma Bourguiba, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Hammami
- Laboratory of Rangeland Ecosystems and Valorization of Spontaneous Plants and Associated Microorganisms (LR16IRA03), Arid Regions Institute, University of Gabes, Medenine, Tunisia
| | - Olfa Masmoudi-Kouki
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Cellular Physiopathology and Valorisation of Biomolecules (LR18ES03), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Oumaima Hamdi
- University Hospital Fattouma Bourguiba, Monastir, Tunisia
- Pôle Personnes Agées, CHU de Dijon, Centre de Champmaillot, Dijon Cedex, France
| | - Pierre Jouanny
- Pôle Personnes Agées, CHU de Dijon, Centre de Champmaillot, Dijon Cedex, France
| | - Mohammad Samadi
- Laboratory of Chemistry and Physics Multi-Scale Approach to Complex Environments, Department of Chemistry, University Lorraine, Metz, France
| | - Anne Vejux
- Bio-PeroxIL Laboratory, EA7270, University of Bourgogne & Inserm, Dijon, France
| | - Taoufik Ghrairi
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Cellular Physiopathology and Valorisation of Biomolecules (LR18ES03), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Gérard Lizard
- Bio-PeroxIL Laboratory, EA7270, University of Bourgogne & Inserm, Dijon, France.
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10
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Tripodi D, Vitarelli F, Spiti S, Leoni V. The Diagnostic Use of the Plasma Quantification of 24S-Hydroxycholesterol and Other Oxysterols in Neurodegenerative Disease. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1440:337-351. [PMID: 38036888 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-43883-7_17] [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: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Cholesterol regulates fluidity and structure of cellular membranes. The brain is involved in signal transduction, synaptogenesis, and membrane trafficking. An impairment of its metabolism was observed in different neurodegenerative diseases, such as Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer, and Huntington diseases. Because of the blood-brain barrier, cholesterol cannot be uptaken from the circulation and all the cholesterol is locally synthetized. The excess cholesterol in neurons is converted into 24S-hydroxycholesterol (24OHC) by the cholesterol 24-hydroxylase (CYP46A1). The plasmatic concentration of 24OHC results in the balance between cerebral production and liver elimination. It is related to the number of metabolically active neurons in the brain. Several factors that affect the brain cholesterol turnover and the liver elimination of oxysterols, the genetic background, nutrition, and lifestyle habits were found to significantly affect plasma levels of 24OHC. Reduced levels of 24OHC were found related to the loss of metabolically active cells and the degree of brain atrophy. The dysfunction of the blood-brain barrier, inflammation, and increased cholesterol turnover might overlap with this progressive reduction giving temporary increased levels of 24OHC.The study of plasma 24OHC is likely to offer an insight into brain cholesterol turnover with a limited diagnostic power.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Tripodi
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Hospital Pio XI of Desio, ASST-Brianza and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Desio, MB, Italy
| | - Federica Vitarelli
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Hospital Pio XI of Desio, ASST-Brianza and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Desio, MB, Italy
| | - Simona Spiti
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Hospital Pio XI of Desio, ASST-Brianza and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Desio, MB, Italy
| | - Valerio Leoni
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, Hospital Pio XI of Desio, ASST-Brianza and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Desio, MB, Italy.
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11
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Messedi M, Makni-Ayadi F. 24S-Hydroxycholesterol in Neuropsychiatric Diseases: Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Bipolar Disorder. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1440:293-304. [PMID: 38036886 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-43883-7_15] [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: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric diseases (NPDs) are severe, debilitating psychiatric conditions that affect the nervous system. These are among the most challenging disorders in medicine. Some examples include Alzheimer's, anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. NPDs represent an ever-increasing burden on public health and are prevalent throughout the world. For most of these diseases, the particular etiopathogeneses are still enigmatic. NPDs are also associated with structural and functional changes in the brain, along with altered neurotransmitter and neuroendocrine systems.Approximately 25% of the total human body cholesterol is located in the brain. Its involvement in neuronal functions starts in the early growth stages and remains important throughout adulthood. It is also an integral part of the neuronal membrane, ensuring membrane lipid organization and regulating membrane fluidity. The main mechanism for removing cholesterol from the brain is cholesterol 24-hydroxylation by cytochrome P450 46A1 (CYP46A1), an enzyme specifically found in the central nervous system. Although research on 24S-OHC and its role in neuropsychiatric diseases is still in its early stages, this oxidized cholesterol metabolite is thought to play a crucial role in the etiology of NPDs. 24S-OHC can affect neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and vascular cells. In addition to regulating the homeostasis of cholesterol in the brain, this oxysterol is involved in neurotransmission, oxidative stress, and inflammation. The role of 24S-OHC in NPDs has been found to be controversial in terms of the findings so far. There are several intriguing discrepancies in the data gathered so far regarding 24S-OHC and NPDs. In fact, 24S-OHC levels were reported to have decreased in a number of NPDs and increased in others.Hence, in this chapter, we first summarize the available data regarding 24S-OHC as a biomarker in NPDs, including schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, and bipolar disorder. Then, we present a brief synopsis of the pharmacological targeting of 24S-OHC levels through the modulation of CYP46A1 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meriam Messedi
- Research Laboratory "Molecular Basis of Human Diseases", LR19ES13, Sfax Medicine School, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Fatma Makni-Ayadi
- Research Laboratory "Molecular Basis of Human Diseases", LR19ES13, Sfax Medicine School, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
- Department of Clinical biochemistry, Habib Bourguiba Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia
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12
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Gilbert MC, Setayesh T, Wan YJY. The contributions of bacteria metabolites to the development of hepatic encephalopathy. LIVER RESEARCH 2023; 7:296-303. [PMID: 38221945 PMCID: PMC10786625 DOI: 10.1016/j.livres.2022.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Over 20% of mortality during acute liver failure is associated with the development of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Thus, HE is a complication of acute liver failure with a broad spectrum of neuropsychiatric abnormalities ranging from subclinical alterations to coma. HE is caused by the diversion of portal blood into systemic circulation through portosystemic collateral vessels. Thus, the brain is exposed to intestinal-derived toxic substances. Moreover, the strategies to prevent advancement and improve the prognosis of such a liver-brain disease rely on intestinal microbial modulation. This is supported by the findings that antibiotics such as rifaximin and laxative lactulose can alleviate hepatic cirrhosis and/or prevent HE. Together, the significance of the gut-liver-brain axis in human health warrants attention. This review paper focuses on the roles of bacteria metabolites, mainly ammonia and bile acids (BAs) as well as BA receptors in HE. The literature search conducted for this review included searches for phrases such as BA receptors, BAs, ammonia, farnesoid X receptor (FXR), G protein-coupled bile acid receptor 1 (GPBAR1 or TGR5), sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2 (S1PR2), and cirrhosis in conjunction with the phrase hepatic encephalopathy and portosystemic encephalopathy. PubMed, as well as Google Scholar, was the search engines used to find relevant publications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda Claire Gilbert
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Tahereh Setayesh
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Yu-Jui Yvonne Wan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
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13
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Nisar S, Haris M. Neuroimaging genetics approaches to identify new biomarkers for the early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:4995-5008. [PMID: 37069342 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02060-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Autism-spectrum disorders (ASDs) are developmental disabilities that manifest in early childhood and are characterized by qualitative abnormalities in social behaviors, communication skills, and restrictive or repetitive behaviors. To explore the neurobiological mechanisms in ASD, extensive research has been done to identify potential diagnostic biomarkers through a neuroimaging genetics approach. Neuroimaging genetics helps to identify ASD-risk genes that contribute to structural and functional variations in brain circuitry and validate biological changes by elucidating the mechanisms and pathways that confer genetic risk. Integrating artificial intelligence models with neuroimaging data lays the groundwork for accurate diagnosis and facilitates the identification of early diagnostic biomarkers for ASD. This review discusses the significance of neuroimaging genetics approaches to gaining a better understanding of the perturbed neurochemical system and molecular pathways in ASD and how these approaches can detect structural, functional, and metabolic changes and lead to the discovery of novel biomarkers for the early diagnosis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabah Nisar
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Mohammad Haris
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar.
- Center for Advanced Metabolic Imaging in Precision Medicine, Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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14
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Tsitsou-Kampeli A, Suzzi S, Kenigsbuch M, Satomi A, Strobelt R, Singer O, Feldmesser E, Purnapatre M, Colaiuta SP, David E, Cahalon L, Hahn O, Wyss-Coray T, Shaul Y, Amit I, Schwartz M. Cholesterol 24-hydroxylase at the choroid plexus contributes to brain immune homeostasis. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101278. [PMID: 37944529 PMCID: PMC10694665 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101278] [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: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
The choroid plexus (CP) plays a key role in remotely controlling brain function in health, aging, and disease. Here, we report that CP epithelial cells express the brain-specific cholesterol 24-hydroxylase (CYP46A1) and that its levels are decreased under different mouse and human brain conditions, including amyloidosis, aging, and SARS-CoV-2 infection. Using primary mouse CP cell cultures, we demonstrate that the enzymatic product of CYP46A1, 24(S)-hydroxycholesterol, downregulates inflammatory transcriptomic signatures within the CP, found here to be elevated across multiple neurological conditions. In vitro, the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) downregulates CYP46A1 expression, while overexpression of CYP46A1 or its pharmacological activation in mouse CP organ cultures increases resilience to TNF-α. In vivo, overexpression of CYP46A1 in the CP in transgenic mice with amyloidosis is associated with better cognitive performance and decreased brain inflammation. Our findings suggest that CYP46A1 expression in the CP impacts the role of this niche as a guardian of brain immune homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefano Suzzi
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
| | - Mor Kenigsbuch
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel; Department of Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Akisawa Satomi
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel; Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Romano Strobelt
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Oded Singer
- Life Sciences Core Facilities, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ester Feldmesser
- Life Sciences Core Facilities, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | | | - Eyal David
- Department of Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Liora Cahalon
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Oliver Hahn
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Tony Wyss-Coray
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Yosef Shaul
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ido Amit
- Department of Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Michal Schwartz
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
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15
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Parente M, Tonini C, Segatto M, Pallottini V. Regulation of cholesterol metabolism: New players for an old physiological process. J Cell Biochem 2023; 124:1449-1465. [PMID: 37796135 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.30477] [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: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Identified more than two centuries ago, cholesterol plays a pivotal role in human physiology. Since cholesterol metabolism is a physiologically significant process, it is not surprising that its alterations are associated with several pathologies. The discovery of new molecular targets or compounds able to modulate this sophisticated metabolism has been capturing the attention of research groups worldwide since many years. Endogenous and exogenous compounds are known to regulate cellular cholesterol synthesis and uptake, or reduce cholesterol absorption at the intestinal level, thereby regulating cholesterol homeostasis. However, there is a great need of new modulators and diverse new pathways have been uncovered. Here, after illustrating cholesterol metabolism and its well-known regulators, some new players of this important physiological process are also described.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marco Segatto
- Department of Bioscience and Territory, University of Molise, Pesche, Italy
| | - Valentina Pallottini
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Rome, Italy
- Neuroendocrinology Metabolism and Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCSS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso Fiorano, Rome, Italy
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16
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Locci S, Nidiaci V, De Stefano N, Leoni V, Mignarri A. 24S-Hydroxycholesterol and Cerebellar Degeneration: Insights from SCA2. CEREBELLUM (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 22:1020-1022. [PMID: 35851639 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-022-01448-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Locci
- Unit of Neurology and Neurometabolic Diseases, Department of Medical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, Viale Bracci 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Valentina Nidiaci
- Unit of Neurology and Neurometabolic Diseases, Department of Medical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, Viale Bracci 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Nicola De Stefano
- Unit of Neurology and Neurometabolic Diseases, Department of Medical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, Viale Bracci 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Valerio Leoni
- Laboratory of Clinical Biochemistry, ASST-Brianza and Department of Medicine and Surgery, Hospital of Desio, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Mignarri
- Unit of Neurology and Neurometabolic Diseases, Department of Medical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, Viale Bracci 2, 53100, Siena, Italy.
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17
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Valenza M, Birolini G, Cattaneo E. The translational potential of cholesterol-based therapies for neurological disease. Nat Rev Neurol 2023; 19:583-598. [PMID: 37644213 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-023-00864-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Cholesterol is an important metabolite and membrane component and is enriched in the brain owing to its role in neuronal maturation and function. In the adult brain, cholesterol is produced locally, predominantly by astrocytes. When cholesterol has been used, recycled and catabolized, the derivatives are excreted across the blood-brain barrier. Abnormalities in any of these steps can lead to neurological dysfunction. Here, we examine how precise interactions between cholesterol production and its use and catabolism in neurons ensures cholesterol homeostasis to support brain function. As an example of a neurological disease associated with cholesterol dyshomeostasis, we summarize evidence from animal models of Huntington disease (HD), which demonstrate a marked reduction in cholesterol biosynthesis with clinically relevant consequences for synaptic activity and cognition. In addition, we examine the relationship between cholesterol loss in the brain and cognitive decline in ageing. We then present emerging therapeutic strategies to restore cholesterol homeostasis, focusing on evidence from HD mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Valenza
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
- Istituto Nazionale di Genetica Molecolare 'Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi', Milan, Italy.
| | - Giulia Birolini
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Genetica Molecolare 'Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi', Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Cattaneo
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
- Istituto Nazionale di Genetica Molecolare 'Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi', Milan, Italy.
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18
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Birolini G, Valenza M, Ottonelli I, Talpo F, Minoli L, Cappelleri A, Bombaci M, Caccia C, Canevari C, Trucco A, Leoni V, Passoni A, Favagrossa M, Nucera MR, Colombo L, Paltrinieri S, Bagnati R, Duskey JT, Caraffi R, Vandelli MA, Taroni F, Salmona M, Scanziani E, Biella G, Ruozi B, Tosi G, Cattaneo E. Chronic cholesterol administration to the brain supports complete and long-lasting cognitive and motor amelioration in Huntington's disease. Pharmacol Res 2023; 194:106823. [PMID: 37336430 PMCID: PMC10463277 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106823] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Evidence that Huntington's disease (HD) is characterized by impaired cholesterol biosynthesis in the brain has led to strategies to increase its level in the brain of the rapidly progressing R6/2 mouse model, with a positive therapeutic outcome. Here we tested the long-term efficacy of chronic administration of cholesterol to the brain of the slowly progressing zQ175DN knock-in HD mice in preventing ("early treatment") or reversing ("late treatment") HD symptoms. To do this we used the most advanced formulation of cholesterol loaded brain-permeable nanoparticles (NPs), termed hybrid-g7-NPs-chol, which were injected intraperitoneally. We show that one cycle of treatment with hybrid-g7-NPs-chol, administered in the presymptomatic ("early treatment") or symptomatic ("late treatment") stages is sufficient to normalize cognitive defects up to 5 months, as well as to improve other behavioral and neuropathological parameters. A multiple cycle treatment combining both early and late treatments ("2 cycle treatment") lasting 6 months generates therapeutic effects for more than 11 months, without severe adverse reactions. Sustained cholesterol delivery to the brain of zQ175DN mice also reduces mutant Huntingtin aggregates in both the striatum and cortex and completely normalizes synaptic communication in the striatal medium spiny neurons compared to saline-treated HD mice. Furthermore, through a meta-analysis of published and current data, we demonstrated the power of hybrid-g7-NPs-chol and other strategies able to increase brain cholesterol biosynthesis, to reverse cognitive decline and counteract the formation of mutant Huntingtin aggregates. These results demonstrate that cholesterol delivery via brain-permeable NPs is a therapeutic option to sustainably reverse HD-related behavioral decline and neuropathological signs over time, highlighting the therapeutic potential of cholesterol-based strategies in HD patients. DATA AVAILABILITY: This study does not include data deposited in public repositories. Data are available on request to the corresponding authors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Birolini
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Genetica Molecolare "Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi", 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Valenza
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Genetica Molecolare "Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi", 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Ottonelli
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I. Center, Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Francesca Talpo
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Lucia Minoli
- Pathology Department, Evotec, 37135 Verona, Italy; Mouse & Animal Pathology Lab (MAPLab), Fondazione UniMi, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Cappelleri
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali, Università degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy; Mouse & Animal Pathology Lab (MAPLab), Fondazione UniMi, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Bombaci
- Istituto Nazionale di Genetica Molecolare "Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi", 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Claudio Caccia
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics. Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20131 Milan, Italy
| | - Caterina Canevari
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Arianna Trucco
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Valerio Leoni
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry, Hospital Pio XI of Desio, ASST-Brianza and Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Alice Passoni
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, 20156 Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Favagrossa
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, 20156 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Nucera
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Genetica Molecolare "Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi", 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Colombo
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, 20156 Milan, Italy
| | - Saverio Paltrinieri
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali, Università degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Renzo Bagnati
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, 20156 Milan, Italy
| | - Jason Thomas Duskey
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I. Center, Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Riccardo Caraffi
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I. Center, Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Maria Angela Vandelli
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I. Center, Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Franco Taroni
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics. Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20131 Milan, Italy
| | - Mario Salmona
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, 20156 Milan, Italy
| | - Eugenio Scanziani
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali, Università degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy; Mouse & Animal Pathology Lab (MAPLab), Fondazione UniMi, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Gerardo Biella
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Barbara Ruozi
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I. Center, Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tosi
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I. Center, Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Elena Cattaneo
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Genetica Molecolare "Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi", 20122 Milan, Italy.
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19
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Pinchaud K, Masson C, Dayre B, Mounier C, Gilles JF, Vanhoutte P, Caboche J, Betuing S. Cell-Type Specific Regulation of Cholesterogenesis by CYP46A1 Re-Expression in zQ175 HD Mouse Striatum. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11001. [PMID: 37446179 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311001] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol metabolism dysregulation is associated with several neurological disorders. In Huntington's disease (HD), several enzymes involved in cholesterol metabolism are downregulated, among which the neuronal cholesterol 24-hydroxylase, CYP46A1, is of particular interest. The restoration of CYP46A1 expression in striatal neurons of HD mouse models is beneficial for motor behavior, cholesterol metabolism, transcriptomic activity, and alleviates neuropathological hallmarks induced by mHTT. Among the genes regulated after CYP46A1 restoration, those involved in cholesterol synthesis and efflux may explain the positive effect of CYP46A1 on cholesterol precursor metabolites. Since cholesterol homeostasis results from a fine-tuning between neurons and astrocytes, we quantified the distribution of key genes regulating cholesterol metabolism and efflux in astrocytes and neurons using in situ hybridization coupled with S100β and NeuN immunostaining, respectively. Neuronal expression of CYP46A1 in the striatum of HD zQ175 mice increased key cholesterol synthesis driver genes (Hmgcr, Dhcr24), specifically in neurons. This effect was associated with an increase of the srebp2 transcription factor gene that regulates most of the genes encoding for cholesterol enzymes. However, the cholesterol efflux gene, ApoE, was specifically upregulated in astrocytes by CYP46A1, probably though a paracrine effect. In summary, the neuronal expression of CYP46A1 has a dual and specific effect on neurons and astrocytes, regulating cholesterol metabolism. The neuronal restoration of CYP46A1 in HD paves the way for future strategies to compensate for mHTT toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katleen Pinchaud
- Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), CNRS UMR 8246/INSERM U1130, Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Chloé Masson
- Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), CNRS UMR 8246/INSERM U1130, Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Baptiste Dayre
- Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), CNRS UMR 8246/INSERM U1130, Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Coline Mounier
- Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), CNRS UMR 8246/INSERM U1130, Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Jean-François Gilles
- Imaging Facility, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Peter Vanhoutte
- Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), CNRS UMR 8246/INSERM U1130, Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Jocelyne Caboche
- Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), CNRS UMR 8246/INSERM U1130, Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Sandrine Betuing
- Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), CNRS UMR 8246/INSERM U1130, Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
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20
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Valencia-Olvera AC, Balu D, Faulk N, Amiridis A, Wang Y, Pham C, Avila-Munoz E, York JM, Thatcher GRJ, LaDu MJ. Inhibition of ACAT as a Therapeutic Target for Alzheimer's Disease Is Independent of ApoE4 Lipidation. Neurotherapeutics 2023; 20:1120-1137. [PMID: 37157042 PMCID: PMC10457278 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-023-01375-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
APOE4, encoding apolipoprotein E4 (apoE4), is the greatest genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD), compared to the common APOE3. While the mechanism(s) underlying APOE4-induced AD risk remains unclear, increasing the lipidation of apoE4 is an important therapeutic target as apoE4-lipoproteins are poorly lipidated compared to apoE3-lipoproteins. ACAT (acyl-CoA: cholesterol-acyltransferase) catalyzes the formation of intracellular cholesteryl-ester droplets, reducing the intracellular free cholesterol (FC) pool. Thus, inhibiting ACAT increases the FC pool and facilitates lipid secretion to extracellular apoE-containing lipoproteins. Previous studies using commercial ACAT inhibitors, including avasimibe (AVAS), as well as ACAT-knock out (KO) mice, exhibit reduced AD-like pathology and amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing in familial AD (FAD)-transgenic (Tg) mice. However, the effects of AVAS with human apoE4 remain unknown. In vitro, AVAS induced apoE efflux at concentrations of AVAS measured in the brains of treated mice. AVAS treatment of male E4FAD-Tg mice (5xFAD+/-APOE4+/+) at 6-8 months had no effect on plasma cholesterol levels or distribution, the original mechanism for AVAS treatment of CVD. In the CNS, AVAS reduced intracellular lipid droplets, indirectly demonstrating target engagement. Surrogate efficacy was demonstrated by an increase in Morris water maze measures of memory and postsynaptic protein levels. Amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ) solubility/deposition and neuroinflammation were reduced, critical components of APOE4-modulated pathology. However, there was no increase in apoE4 levels or apoE4 lipidation, while amyloidogenic and non-amyloidogenic processing of APP were significantly reduced. This suggests that the AVAS-induced reduction in Aβ via reduced APP processing was sufficient to reduce AD pathology, as apoE4-lipoproteins remained poorly lipidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C. Valencia-Olvera
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Deebika Balu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Naomi Faulk
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | | | - Yueting Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
- Present Address: AbbVie Inc., 1 N. Waukegan Road, North Chicago, IL 60064 USA
| | - Christine Pham
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Eva Avila-Munoz
- Syneos Health, Av. Gustavo Baz 309, La Loma, Tlalnepantla de Baz, 54060 Mexico
| | - Jason M. York
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Gregory R. J. Thatcher
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Arizona, 1703 E Mabel St., Tucson, AZ 85721 USA
| | - Mary Jo LaDu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
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21
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El-Darzi N, Mast N, Li Y, Dailey B, Kang M, Rhee DJ, Pikuleva IA. The normalizing effects of the CYP46A1 activator efavirenz on retinal sterol levels and risk factors for glaucoma in Apoj -/- mice. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:194. [PMID: 37392222 PMCID: PMC10314885 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04848-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
Apolipoprotein J (APOJ) is a multifunctional protein with genetic evidence suggesting an association between APOJ polymorphisms and Alzheimer's disease as well as exfoliation glaucoma. Herein we conducted ocular characterizations of Apoj-/- mice and found that their retinal cholesterol levels were decreased and that this genotype had several risk factors for glaucoma: increased intraocular pressure and cup-to-disk ratio and impaired retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function. The latter was not due to RGC degeneration or activation of retinal Muller cells and microglia/macrophages. There was also a decrease in retinal levels of 24-hydroxycholesterol, a suggested neuroprotectant under glaucomatous conditions and a positive allosteric modulator of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors mediating the light-evoked response of the RGC. Therefore, Apoj-/- mice were treated with low-dose efavirenz, an allosteric activator of CYP46A1 which converts cholesterol into 24-hydroxycholesterol. Efavirenz treatment increased retinal cholesterol and 24-hydroxycholesterol levels, normalized intraocular pressure and cup-to-disk ratio, and rescued in part RGC function. Retinal expression of Abcg1 (a cholesterol efflux transporter), Apoa1 (a constituent of lipoprotein particles), and Scarb1 (a lipoprotein particle receptor) was increased in EVF-treated Apoj-/- mice, indicating increased retinal cholesterol transport on lipoprotein particles. Ocular characterizations of Cyp46a1-/- mice supported the beneficial efavirenz treatment effects via CYP46A1 activation. The data obtained demonstrate an important APOJ role in retinal cholesterol homeostasis and link this apolipoprotein to the glaucoma risk factors and retinal 24-hydroxycholesterol production by CYP46A1. As the CYP46A1 activator efavirenz is an FDA-approved anti-HIV drug, our studies suggest a new therapeutic approach for treatment of glaucomatous conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole El-Darzi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Natalia Mast
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Brian Dailey
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Min Kang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Douglas J Rhee
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Irina A Pikuleva
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
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22
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Passero M, Zhai T, Huang Z. Investigation of Potential Drug Targets for Cholesterol Regulation to Treat Alzheimer's Disease. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6217. [PMID: 37444065 PMCID: PMC10341567 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20136217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Despite extensive research and seven approved drugs, the complex interplay of genes, proteins, and pathways in Alzheimer's disease remains a challenge. This implies the intricacies of the mechanism for Alzheimer's disease, which involves the interaction of hundreds of genes, proteins, and pathways. While the major hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease are the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau protein tangles, excessive accumulation of cholesterol is reportedly correlated with Alzheimer's disease patients. In this work, protein-protein interaction analysis was conducted based upon the genes from a clinical database to identify the top protein targets with most data-indicated involvement in Alzheimer's disease, which include ABCA1, CYP46A1, BACE1, TREM2, GSK3B, and SREBP2. The reactions and pathways associated with these genes were thoroughly studied for their roles in regulating brain cholesterol biosynthesis, amyloid beta accumulation, and tau protein tangle formation. Existing clinical trials for each protein target were also investigated. The research indicated that the inhibition of SREBP2, BACE1, or GSK3B is beneficial to reduce cholesterol and amyloid beta accumulation, while the activation of ABCA1, CYP46A1, or TREM2 has similar effects. In this study, Sterol Regulatory Element-Binding Protein 2 (SREBP2) emerged as the primary protein target. SREBP2 serves a pivotal role in maintaining cholesterol balance, acting as a transcription factor that controls the expression of several enzymes pivotal for cholesterol biosynthesis. Novel studies suggest that SREBP2 performs a multifaceted role in Alzheimer's disease. The hyperactivity of SREBP2 may lead to heightened cholesterol biosynthesis, which suggested association with the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Lowering SREBP2 levels in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model results in reduced production of amyloid-beta, a major contributor to Alzheimer's disease progression. Moreover, its thoroughly analyzed crystal structure allows for computer-aided screening of potential inhibitors; SREBP2 is thus selected as a prospective drug target. While more protein targets can be added onto the list in the future, this work provides an overview of key proteins involved in the regulation of brain cholesterol biosynthesis that may be further investigated for Alzheimer's disease intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zuyi Huang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Villanova University, Villanova, PA 19085, USA
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23
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Piccarducci R, Giacomelli C, Bertilacchi MS, Benito-Martinez A, Di Giorgi N, Daniele S, Signore G, Rocchiccioli S, Vilar M, Marchetti L, Martini C. Apolipoprotein E ε4 triggers neurotoxicity via cholesterol accumulation, acetylcholine dyshomeostasis, and PKCε mislocalization in cholinergic neuronal cells. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023:166793. [PMID: 37336366 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
The Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) has been known to regulate cholesterol and β-amyloid (Aβ) production, redistribution, and elimination, in the central nervous system (CNS). The ApoE ε4 polymorphic variant leads to impaired brain cholesterol homeostasis and amyloidogenic pathway, thus representing the major risk factor for Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Currently, less is known about the molecular mechanisms connecting ApoE ε4-related cholesterol metabolism and cholinergic system degeneration, one of the main AD pathological features. Herein, in vitro cholinergic neuron models were developed in order to study ApoE neuronal expression and investigate the possible interplay between cholesterol metabolism and cholinergic pathway impairment prompted by ε4 isoform. Particularly, alterations specifically occurring in ApoE ε4-carrying neurons (i.e. increased intracellular ApoE, amyloid precursor protein (APP), and Aβ levels, elevated apoptosis, and reduced cell survival) were recapitulated. ApoE ε4 expression was found to increase intracellular cholesterol accumulation, by regulating the related gene expression, while reducing cholesterol precursor acetyl-CoA, which in turn fuels the acetylcholine (ACh) synthesis route. In parallel, although the ACh intracellular signalling was activated, as demonstrated by the boosted extracellular ACh as well as increased IP3 and Ca2+, the PKCε activation via membrane translocation was surprisingly suppressed, probably explained by the cholesterol overload in ApoE ε4 neuron-like cells. Consequently, the PKC-dependent anti-apoptotic and neuroprotective roles results impaired, reliably adding to other causes of cell death prompted by ApoE ε4. Overall, the obtained data open the way to further critical considerations of ApoE ε4-dependent cholesterol metabolism dysregulation in the alteration of cholinergic pathway, neurotoxicity, and neuronal death.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Andrea Benito-Martinez
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia-CSIC Spanish National Research Council, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Simona Daniele
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | | | | | - Marçal Vilar
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia-CSIC Spanish National Research Council, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Laura Marchetti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Claudia Martini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
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24
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Mast N, El-Darzi N, Li Y, Pikuleva IA. Quantitative characterizations of the cholesterol-related pathways in the retina and brain of hamsters. J Lipid Res 2023:100401. [PMID: 37330011 PMCID: PMC10394389 DOI: 10.1016/j.jlr.2023.100401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The retina and brain are separated from the systemic circulation by the anatomical barriers, which are permeable (the outer blood-retinal barrier) and impermeable (the blood-brain and inner blood-retina barriers) to cholesterol. Herein we investigated whether the whole-body cholesterol maintenance affects cholesterol homeostasis in the retina and brain. We used hamsters, whose whole-body cholesterol handling is more similar to those in humans than in mice and conducted separate administrations of deuterated water and deuterated cholesterol. We assessed the quantitative significance of the retinal and brain pathways of cholesterol input and compared the results with those from our previous studies in mice. The utility of the measurements in the plasma of deuterated 24-hydroxycholesterol, the major cholesterol elimination product from the brain, was investigated as well. We established that despite a 7-fold higher serum LDL to HDL ratio and other cholesterol-related differences, in situ biosynthesis remained the major source of cholesterol for hamster retina, although its quantitative significance was reduced to 53% as compared to 72-78% in mouse retina. In the brain, the principal pathway of cholesterol input was also the same, in situ biosynthesis, accounting for 94% of the total brain cholesterol input (96% in mice); the interspecies differences pertained to the absolute rates of the total cholesterol input and turnover. We documented the correlations between deuterium enrichments of the brain 24-hydroxycholesterol, brain cholesterol, and plasma 24-hydroxycholesterol, which suggested that deuterium enrichment of plasma 24-hydroxycholesteol could be an in vivo marker of cholesterol elimination and turnover in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Mast
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Nicole El-Darzi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Irina A Pikuleva
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH USA.
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25
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Yuan Y, Fang A, Wang Z, Wang Z, Sui B, Zhu Y, Zhang Y, Wang C, Zhang R, Zhou M, Chen H, Fu ZF, Zhao L. The CH24H metabolite, 24HC, blocks viral entry by disrupting intracellular cholesterol homeostasis. Redox Biol 2023; 64:102769. [PMID: 37285742 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102769] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol-24-hydroxylase (CH24H or Cyp46a1) is a reticulum-associated membrane protein that plays an irreplaceable role in cholesterol metabolism in the brain and has been well-studied in several neuro-associated diseases in recent years. In the present study, we found that CH24H expression can be induced by several neuroinvasive viruses, including vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), rabies virus (RABV), Semliki Forest virus (SFV) and murine hepatitis virus (MHV). The CH24H metabolite, 24-hydroxycholesterol (24HC), also shows competence in inhibiting the replication of multiple viruses, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). 24HC can increase the cholesterol concentration in multivesicular body (MVB)/late endosome (LE) by disrupting the interaction between OSBP and VAPA, resulting in viral particles being trapped in MVB/LE, ultimately compromising VSV and RABV entry into host cells. These findings provide the first evidence that brain cholesterol oxidation products may play a critical role in viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueming Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine of Hubei Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - An Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine of Hubei Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Zongmei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine of Hubei Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Zhihui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine of Hubei Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Baokun Sui
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine of Hubei Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Yunkai Zhu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine of Hubei Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Caiqian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine of Hubei Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Ming Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine of Hubei Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Huanchun Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine of Hubei Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Zhen F Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine of Hubei Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Ling Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430070, China; Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine of Hubei Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
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26
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Heterologous Expression of Recombinant Human Cytochrome P450 (CYP) in Escherichia coli: N-Terminal Modification, Expression, Isolation, Purification, and Reconstitution. BIOTECH 2023; 12:biotech12010017. [PMID: 36810444 PMCID: PMC9944785 DOI: 10.3390/biotech12010017] [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: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes play important roles in metabolising endogenous and xenobiotic substances. Characterisations of human CYP proteins have been advanced with the rapid development of molecular technology that allows heterologous expression of human CYPs. Among several hosts, bacteria systems such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) have been widely used thanks to their ease of use, high level of protein yields, and affordable maintenance costs. However, the levels of expression in E. coli reported in the literature sometimes differ significantly. This paper aims to review several contributing factors, including N-terminal modifications, co-expression with a chaperon, selections of vectors and E. coli strains, bacteria culture and protein expression conditions, bacteria membrane preparations, CYP protein solubilizations, CYP protein purifications, and reconstitution of CYP catalytic systems. The common factors that would most likely lead to high expression of CYPs were identified and summarised. Nevertheless, each factor may still require careful evaluation for individual CYP isoforms to achieve a maximal expression level and catalytic activity. Recombinant E. coli systems have been evidenced as a useful tool in obtaining the ideal level of human CYP proteins, which ultimately allows for subsequent characterisations of structures and functions.
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27
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Lipidomics analysis in drug discovery and development. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2023; 72:102256. [PMID: 36586190 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.102256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Despite being a relatively new addition to the Omics' landscape, lipidomics is increasingly being recognized as an important tool for the identification of druggable targets and biochemical markers. In this review we present recent advances of lipid analysis in drug discovery and development. We cover current state of the art technologies which are constantly evolving to meet demands in terms of sensitivity and selectivity. A careful selection of important examples is then provided, illustrating the versatility of lipidomics analysis in the drug discovery and development process. Integration of lipidomics with other omics', stem-cell technologies, and metabolic flux analysis will open new avenues for deciphering pathophysiological mechanisms and the discovery of novel targets and biomarkers.
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28
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Hartz P, Fehlmann T, Wagenpfeil G, Unger MM, Bernhardt R. A CYPome-wide study reveals new potential players in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. Front Pharmacol 2023; 13:1094265. [PMID: 36744208 PMCID: PMC9892771 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1094265] [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: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic and environmental factors lead to the manifestation of Parkinson's disease (PD) but related mechanisms are only rudimentarily understood. Cytochromes P450 (P450s) are involved in the biotransformation of toxic compounds and in many physiological processes and thus predestinated to be involved in PD. However, so far only SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) in CYP2D6 and CYP2E1 have been associated with the susceptibility of PD. Our aim was to evaluate the role of all 57 human P450s and their redox partners for the etiology and pathophysiology of PD and to identify novel potential players which may lead to the identification of new biomarkers and to a causative treatment of PD. The PPMI (Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative) database was used to extract the gene sequences of all 57 P450s and their three redox partners to analyze the association of SNPs with the occurrence of PD. Applying statistical analyses of the data, corresponding odds ratios (OR) and confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. We identified SNPs significantly over-represented in patients with a genetic predisposition for PD (GPD patients) or in idiopathic PD (IPD patients) compared to HC (healthy controls). Xenobiotic-metabolizing P450s show a significant accumulation of SNPs in PD patients compared with HC supporting the role of toxic compounds in the pathogenesis of PD. Moreover, SNPs with high OR values (>5) in P450s catalyzing the degradation of cholesterol (CYP46A1, CY7B1, CYP39A1) indicate a prominent role of cholesterol metabolism in the brain for PD risk. Finally, P450s participating in the metabolism of eicosanoids show a strong over-representation of SNPs in PD patients underlining the effect of inflammation on the pathogenesis of PD. Also, the redox partners of P450 show SNPs with OR > 5 in PD patients. Taken together, we demonstrate that SNPs in 26 out of 57 P450s are at least 5-fold over-represented in PD patients suggesting these P450s as new potential players in the pathogenesis of PD. For the first time exceptionally high OR values (up to 12.9) were found. This will lead to deeper insight into the origin and development of PD and may be applied to develop novel strategies for a causative treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Hartz
- Institut für Biochemie, Fachbereich Biologie, Universität des Saarlandes, Naturwissenschaftlich-Technische Fakultät, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Tobias Fehlmann
- Institut für Klinische Bioinformatik, Universität des Saarlandes, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Gudrun Wagenpfeil
- Institut für Medizinische Biometrie, Epidemiologie und Medizinische Informatik, Universität des Saarlandes, Homburg, Germany
| | - Marcus Michael Unger
- KLinik für Neurologie, Fachbereich Klinische Medizin, Universität des Saarlandes, Homburg, Germany,Klinik für Neurologie, SHG Kliniken Sonnenberg, Saarbrücken, Germany,*Correspondence: Marcus Michael Unger, ; Rita Bernhardt,
| | - Rita Bernhardt
- Institut für Biochemie, Fachbereich Biologie, Universität des Saarlandes, Naturwissenschaftlich-Technische Fakultät, Saarbrücken, Germany,*Correspondence: Marcus Michael Unger, ; Rita Bernhardt,
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29
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Zhan N, Wang B, Martens N, Liu Y, Zhao S, Voortman G, van Rooij J, Leijten F, Vanmierlo T, Kuipers F, Jonker JW, Bloks VW, Lütjohann D, Palumbo M, Zimetti F, Adorni MP, Liu H, Mulder MT. Identification of Side Chain Oxidized Sterols as Novel Liver X Receptor Agonists with Therapeutic Potential in the Treatment of Cardiovascular and Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021290. [PMID: 36674804 PMCID: PMC9863018 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The nuclear receptors-liver X receptors (LXR α and β) are potential therapeutic targets in cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases because of their key role in the regulation of lipid homeostasis and inflammatory processes. Specific oxy(phyto)sterols differentially modulate the transcriptional activity of LXRs providing opportunities to develop compounds with improved therapeutic characteristics. We isolated oxyphytosterols from Sargassum fusiforme and synthesized sidechain oxidized sterol derivatives. Five 24-oxidized sterols demonstrated a high potency for LXRα/β activation in luciferase reporter assays and induction of LXR-target genes APOE, ABCA1 and ABCG1 involved in cellular cholesterol turnover in cultured cells: methyl 3β-hydroxychol-5-en-24-oate (S1), methyl (3β)-3-aldehydeoxychol-5-en-24-oate (S2), 24-ketocholesterol (S6), (3β,22E)-3-hydroxycholesta-5,22-dien-24-one (N10) and fucosterol-24,28 epoxide (N12). These compounds induced SREBF1 but not SREBP1c-mediated lipogenic genes such as SCD1, ACACA and FASN in HepG2 cells or astrocytoma cells. Moreover, S2 and S6 enhanced cholesterol efflux from HepG2 cells. All five oxysterols induced production of the endogenous LXR agonists 24(S)-hydroxycholesterol by upregulating the CYP46A1, encoding the enzyme converting cholesterol into 24(S)-hydroxycholesterol; S1 and S6 may also act via the upregulation of desmosterol production. Thus, we identified five novel LXR-activating 24-oxidized sterols with a potential for therapeutic applications in neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Zhan
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Boyang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Nikita Martens
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, 3500 Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Yankai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Shangge Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Gardi Voortman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen van Rooij
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frank Leijten
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, 3500 Hasselt, Belgium
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Folkert Kuipers
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing (ERIBA), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Johan W. Jonker
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Vincent W. Bloks
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Dieter Lütjohann
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Bonn, 53105 Bonn, Germany
| | - Marcella Palumbo
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Francesca Zimetti
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Adorni
- Unit of Neurosciences, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy
| | - Hongbing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Correspondence: (H.L.); (M.T.M.)
| | - Monique T. Mulder
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: (H.L.); (M.T.M.)
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Martins GL, Ferreira CN, Palotás A, Rocha NP, Reis HJ. Role of Oxysterols in the Activation of the NLRP3 Inflammasome as a Potential Pharmacological Approach in Alzheimer's Disease. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:202-212. [PMID: 35339182 PMCID: PMC10190144 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x20666220327215245] [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: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most prevalent form of dementia, is a complex clinical condition with multifactorial origin posing a major burden to health care systems across the world. Even though the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the disease are still unclear, both central and peripheral inflammation has been implicated in the process. Piling evidence shows that the nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich repeat and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is activated in AD. As dyslipidemia is a risk factor for dementia, and cholesterol can also activate the inflammasome, a possible link between lipid levels and the NLRP3 inflammasome has been proposed in Alzheimer's. It is also speculated that not only cholesterol but also its metabolites, the oxysterols, may be involved in AD pathology. In this context, mounting data suggest that NLRP3 inflammasome activity can be modulated by different peripheral nuclear receptors, including liver-X receptors, which present oxysterols as endogenous ligands. In light of this, the current review explores whether the activation of NLRP3 by nuclear receptors, mediated by oxysterols, may also be involved in AD and could serve as a potential pharmacological avenue in dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela L. Martins
- Laboratório Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Farmacologia, ICB-UFMG, Belo Horizonte MG, 31270 - 901, Brazil
| | | | - András Palotás
- Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russia
- Asklepios Med, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Natália P. Rocha
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Helton J. Reis
- Laboratório Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Farmacologia, ICB-UFMG, Belo Horizonte MG, 31270 - 901, Brazil
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Lerner AJ, Arnold SE, Maxfield E, Koenig A, Toth ME, Fortin B, Mast N, Trombetta BA, Denker J, Pieper AA, Tatsuoka C, Raghupathy S, Pikuleva IA. CYP46A1 activation by low-dose efavirenz enhances brain cholesterol metabolism in subjects with early Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimers Res Ther 2022; 14:198. [PMID: 36581878 PMCID: PMC9797897 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-022-01151-z] [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: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Efavirenz is an anti-HIV drug, and cytochrome P450 46A1 (CYP46A1) is a CNS-specific enzyme that metabolizes cholesterol to 24-hydroxycholesterol (24HC). We have previously shown that allosteric CYP46A1 activation by low-dose efavirenz in a transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (AD) enhanced both cholesterol elimination and turnover in the brain and improved animal performance in memory tests. Here, we sought to determine whether CYP46A1 could be similarly activated by a low-dose efavirenz in human subjects. METHODS: This pilot study enrolled 5 subjects with early AD. Participants were randomized to placebo (n = 1) or two daily efavirenz doses (50 mg and 200 mg, n = 2 for each) for 20 weeks and evaluated for safety and CYP46A1 target engagement (plasma 24HC levels). A longitudinal mixed model was used to ascertain the statistical significance of target engagement. We also measured 24HC in CSF and conducted a unique stable isotope labeling kinetics (SILK) study with deuterated water to directly measure CYP46A1 activity changes in the brain. RESULTS In subjects receiving efavirenz, there was a statistically significant within-group increase (P ≤ 0.001) in the levels of plasma 24HC from baseline. The levels of 24HC in the CSF of subjects on the 200-mg dose of efavirenz were also increased. Target engagement was further supported by the labeling kinetics of 24HC by deuterated water in the SILK study. There were no serious adverse effects in any subjects. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest efavirenz target engagement in human subjects with early AD. This supports the pursuit of a larger trial for further determination and confirmation of the efavirenz dose that exerts maximal enzyme activation, as well as evaluation of this drug's effects on AD biomarkers and clinical symptomatology. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03706885.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan J Lerner
- Brain Health and Memory Center, Neurological Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, 44122, USA
- Department of Neurology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Steven E Arnold
- Alzheimer's Clinical and Translational Research Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, 02129, USA
| | - Erin Maxfield
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Aaron Koenig
- Alzheimer's Clinical and Translational Research Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, 02129, USA
| | - Maria E Toth
- Brain Health and Memory Center, Neurological Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, 44122, USA
| | - Brooke Fortin
- Alzheimer's Clinical and Translational Research Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, 02129, USA
| | - Natalia Mast
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Bianca A Trombetta
- Alzheimer's Clinical and Translational Research Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, 02129, USA
| | - John Denker
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Andrew A Pieper
- Harrington Discovery Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
- Geriatric Psychiatry, GRECC, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
- Institute for Transformative Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Curtis Tatsuoka
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Sangeetha Raghupathy
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Irina A Pikuleva
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
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32
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Identification of potential inhibitors of brain-specific CYP46A1 from phytoconstituents in Indian traditional medicinal plants. JOURNAL OF PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2022; 13:227-245. [PMCID: PMC9667835 DOI: 10.1007/s42485-022-00098-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Lazar AN, Hanbouch L, Boussicaut L, Fourmaux B, Daira P, Millan MJ, Bernoud-Hubac N, Potier MC. Lipid Dys-Homeostasis Contributes to APOE4-Associated AD Pathology. Cells 2022; 11:cells11223616. [PMID: 36429044 PMCID: PMC9688773 DOI: 10.3390/cells11223616] [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: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The association of the APOE4 (vs. APOE3) isoform with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is unequivocal, but the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely elucidated. A prevailing hypothesis incriminates the impaired ability of APOE4 to clear neurotoxic amyloid-β peptides (Aβ) from the brain as the main mechanism linking the apolipoprotein isoform to disease etiology. The APOE protein mediates lipid transport both within the brain and from the brain to the periphery, suggesting that lipids may be potential co-factors in APOE4-associated physiopathology. The present study reveals several changes in the pathways of lipid homeostasis in the brains of mice expressing the human APOE4 vs. APOE3 isoform. Carriers of APOE4 had altered cholesterol turnover, an imbalance in the ratio of specific classes of phospholipids, lower levels of phosphatidylethanolamines bearing polyunsaturated fatty acids and an overall elevation in levels of monounsaturated fatty acids. These modifications in lipid homeostasis were related to increased production of Aβ peptides as well as augmented levels of tau and phosphorylated tau in primary neuronal cultures. This suite of APOE4-associated anomalies in lipid homeostasis and neurotoxic protein levels may be related to the accrued risk for AD in APOE4 carriers and provides novel insights into potential strategies for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adina-Nicoleta Lazar
- Univ Lyon, INSA Lyon, CNRS, LaMCoS, UMR5259, 69621 Villeurbanne, France
- Correspondence: (A.-N.L.); (M.-C.P.)
| | - Linda Hanbouch
- ICM Paris Brain Institute, CNRS UMR7225, INSERM U1127, Sorbonne University, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, 47 Bd de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Lydie Boussicaut
- ICM Paris Brain Institute, CNRS UMR7225, INSERM U1127, Sorbonne University, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, 47 Bd de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Baptiste Fourmaux
- Univ Lyon, INSA Lyon, CNRS, LaMCoS, UMR5259, 69621 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Patricia Daira
- Univ Lyon, INSA Lyon, CNRS, LaMCoS, UMR5259, 69621 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Mark J. Millan
- Institut De Recherche Servier IDRS, Neuroscience Inflammation Thérapeutic Area, 125 Chemin de Ronde, 78290 Croissy-sur-Seine, France
- Institute of Neuroscience and Psychology, College of Medical, Vet and life Sciences, Glasgow University, 68 Hillhead Street, Glasgow G12 8QB, Scotland, UK
| | | | - Marie-Claude Potier
- ICM Paris Brain Institute, CNRS UMR7225, INSERM U1127, Sorbonne University, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, 47 Bd de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
- Correspondence: (A.-N.L.); (M.-C.P.)
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Chen C, Ji H, Jiang N, Wang Y, Zhou Y, Zhu Z, Hu Y, Wang Y, Li A, Guo A. Thrombin increases the expression of cholesterol 25-hydroxylase in rat astrocytes after spinal cord injury. Neural Regen Res 2022; 18:1339-1346. [PMID: 36453421 PMCID: PMC9838143 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.357905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are important cellular centers of cholesterol synthesis and metabolism that help maintain normal physiological function at the organism level. Spinal cord injury results in aberrant cholesterol metabolism by astrocytes and excessive production of oxysterols, which have profound effects on neuropathology. 25-Hydroxycholesterol (25-HC), the main product of the membrane-associated enzyme cholesterol-25-hydroxylase (CH25H), plays important roles in mediating neuroinflammation. However, whether the abnormal astrocyte cholesterol metabolism induced by spinal cord injury contributes to the production of 25-HC, as well as the resulting pathological effects, remain unclear. In the present study, spinal cord injury-induced activation of thrombin was found to increase astrocyte CH25H expression. A protease-activated receptor 1 inhibitor was able to attenuate this effect in vitro and in vivo. In cultured primary astrocytes, thrombin interacted with protease-activated receptor 1, mainly through activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase/nuclear factor-kappa B signaling pathway. Conditioned culture medium from astrocytes in which ch25h expression had been knocked down by siRNA reduced macrophage migration. Finally, injection of the protease activated receptor 1 inhibitor SCH79797 into rat neural sheaths following spinal cord injury reduced migration of microglia/macrophages to the injured site and largely restored motor function. Our results demonstrate a novel regulatory mechanism for thrombin-regulated cholesterol metabolism in astrocytes that could be used to develop anti-inflammatory drugs to treat patients with spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China,Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Huiyuan Ji
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Nan Jiang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yingjie Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhenjie Zhu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yuming Hu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yongjun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Aihong Li
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China,Correspondence to: Aisong Guo, ; Aihong Li, .
| | - Aisong Guo
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China,Correspondence to: Aisong Guo, ; Aihong Li, .
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35
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Cholesterol and its reciprocal association with prion infection. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 392:235-246. [PMID: 35821439 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03669-y] [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: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Prion diseases are incurable, infectious and fatal neurodegenerative diseases that affect both humans and animals. The pathogenesis of prion disease involves the misfolding of the cellular prion protein, PrPC, to a disease-causing conformation, PrPSc, in the brain. The exact mechanism of conversion of PrPC to PrPSc is not clear; however, there are numerous studies supporting that this process of misfolding requires the association of PrPC with lipid raft domains of the plasma membrane. An increase in the cellular cholesterol content with prion infection has been observed in both in vivo and in vitro studies. As cholesterol is critical for the formation of lipid rafts, on the one hand, this increase may be related to, or aiding in, the process of prion conversion. On the other hand, increased cholesterol levels may affect neuronal viability. Here, we discuss current literature on the underlying mechanisms and potential consequences of elevated neuronal cholesterol in prion infection and advancements in prion disease therapeutics targeting brain cholesterol homeostasis.
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Mast N, Li Y, Pikuleva IA. Increased Acetylcholine Levels and Other Brain Effects in 5XFAD Mice after Treatment with 8,14-Dihydroxy Metabolite of Efavirenz. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147669. [PMID: 35887013 PMCID: PMC9317559 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Efavirenz (EFV), an FDA-approved anti-HIV drug, has off-target binding to CYP46A1, the CNS enzyme which converts cholesterol to 24-hydroxycholesterol. At small doses, EFV allosterically activates CYP46A1 in mice and humans and mitigates some of the Alzheimer's disease manifestations in 5XFAD mice, an animal model. Notably, in vitro, all phase 1 EFV hydroxymetabolites activate CYP46A1 as well and bind either to the allosteric site for EFV, neurotransmitters or both. Herein, we treated 5XFAD mice with 8,14-dihydroxyEFV, the binder to the neurotransmitter allosteric site, which elicits the highest CYP46A1 activation in vitro. We found that treated animals of both sexes had activation of CYP46A1 and cholesterol turnover in the brain, decreased content of the amyloid beta 42 peptide, increased levels of acetyl-CoA and acetylcholine, and altered expression of the brain marker proteins. In addition, male mice had improved performance in the Barnes Maze test and increased expression of the acetylcholine-related genes. This work expands our knowledge of the beneficial CYP46A1 activation effects and demonstrates that 8,14-dihydroxyEFV crosses the blood-brain barrier and has therapeutic potential as a CYP46A1 activator.
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Mast N, Fotinich A, Pikuleva IA. The Hydroxylation Position Rather than Chirality Determines How Efavirenz Metabolites Activate Cytochrome P450 46A1 In Vitro. Drug Metab Dispos 2022; 50:923-930. [PMID: 35489779 PMCID: PMC11022896 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.122.000874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
(S)-Efavirenz (EFV) is a reverse transcriptase inhibitor and an antiviral drug. In addition, (S)-EFV can interact off target with CYP46A1, the major cholesterol hydroxylating enzyme in the mammalian brain, and allosterically activate CYP46A1 at a small dose in mice and humans. Studies with purified CYP46A1 identified two allosteric sites on the enzyme surface, one for (S)-EFV and the second site for L-glutamate (Glu), a neurotransmitter that also activates CYP46A1 either alone or in the presence of (S)-EFV. Previously, we found that racemic (rac)-7-hydroxyefavirenz, (rac)-8-hydroxyefavirenz, (S)-8-hydroxyefavirenz, and (rac)-8,14-dihydroxyefavirenz, compounds with the hydroxylation positions corresponding to the metabolism of (S)-EFV in the liver, activated CYP46A1 in vitro. Yet, these compounds differed from (S)-EFV in how they allosterically interacted with CYP46A1. Herein, we further characterized (rac)-7-hydroxyefavirenz, (rac)-8-hydroxyefavirenz, (S)-8-hydroxyefavirenz, and (rac)-8,14-dihydroxyefavirenz, and, in addition, (R)-EFV, (S)-7-hydroxyefavirenz, (rac)-7,8-dihydroxyefavirenz, (S)-7,8-dihydroxyefavirenz, and (S)-8,14-dihydroxyefavirenz for activation and binding to CYP46A1 in vitro. We found that the spatial configuration of all tested compounds neither affected the CYP46A1 activation nor the sites of binding to CYP46A1. Yet, the hydroxylation position determined whether the hydroxylated metabolite interacted with the allosteric site for (S)-EFV [(R)-EFV, (rac)-7,8-dihydroxyefavirenz, and (S)-7,8-dihydroxyefavirenz], L-Glu [(rac)- and (S)-8,14-dihydroxyefavirenz], or both [(rac)-7-hydroxyefavirenz, (S)-7-hydroxyefavirenz, (rac)-8-hydroxyefavirenz, and (S)-8-hydroxyefavirenz]. This difference in binding to the allosteric sites determined, in turn, how CYP46A1 activity was changed in the coincubations with (S)-EFV and either its metabolite or L-Glu. The results suggest EFV metabolites that could be more potent for CYP46A1 activation in vivo than (S)-EFV. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This study found that not only efavirenz but also all its hydroxylated metabolites allosterically activate CYP46A1 in vitro. The enzyme activation depended on the hydroxylation position but not the metabolite spatial configuration and involved either one or two allosteric sites-for efavirenz, L-glutamate, or both. The results suggest that the hydroxylated efavirenz metabolites may differ from efavirenz in how they interact with the CYP46A1 allosteric and active sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Mast
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Anna Fotinich
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Irina A Pikuleva
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
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El-Darzi N, Mast N, Buchner DA, Saadane A, Dailey B, Trichonas G, Pikuleva IA. Low-Dose Anti-HIV Drug Efavirenz Mitigates Retinal Vascular Lesions in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:902254. [PMID: 35721135 PMCID: PMC9198296 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.902254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
A small dose of the anti-HIV drug efavirenz (EFV) was previously discovered to activate CYP46A1, a cholesterol-eliminating enzyme in the brain, and mitigate some of the manifestation of Alzheimer's disease in 5XFAD mice. Herein, we investigated the retina of these animals, which were found to have genetically determined retinal vascular lesions associated with deposits within the retinal pigment epithelium and subretinal space. We established that EFV treatment activated CYP46A1 in the retina, enhanced retinal cholesterol turnover, and diminished the lesion frequency >5-fold. In addition, the treatment mitigated fluorescein leakage from the aberrant blood vessels, deposit size, activation of retinal macrophages/microglia, and focal accumulations of amyloid β plaques, unesterified cholesterol, and Oil Red O-positive lipids. Studies of retinal transcriptomics and proteomics identified biological processes enriched with differentially expressed genes and proteins. We discuss the mechanisms of the beneficial EFV effects on the retinal phenotype of 5XFAD mice. As EFV is an FDA-approved drug, and we already tested the safety of small-dose EFV in patients with Alzheimer's disease, our data support further clinical investigation of this drug in subjects with retinal vascular lesions or neovascular age-related macular degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole El-Darzi
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Natalia Mast
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - David A. Buchner
- Departments of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Aicha Saadane
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Brian Dailey
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Georgios Trichonas
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Irina A. Pikuleva
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Cleveland, OH, United States,*Correspondence: Irina A. Pikuleva,
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Ossenkoppele R, van der Kant R, Hansson O. Tau biomarkers in Alzheimer's disease: towards implementation in clinical practice and trials. Lancet Neurol 2022; 21:726-734. [DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(22)00168-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Kacher R, Mounier C, Caboche J, Betuing S. Altered Cholesterol Homeostasis in Huntington’s Disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:797220. [PMID: 35517051 PMCID: PMC9063567 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.797220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington’s disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder caused by an expansion of the CAG repeat in the first exon of Huntingtin’s gene. The associated neurodegeneration mainly affects the striatum and the cortex at early stages and progressively spreads to other brain structures. Targeting HD at its earlier stages is under intense investigation. Numerous drugs were tested, with a rate of success of only 3.5% approved molecules used as symptomatic treatment. The restoration of cholesterol metabolism, which is central to the brain homeostasis and strongly altered in HD, could be an interesting disease-modifying strategy. Cholesterol is an essential membrane component in the central nervous system (CNS); alterations of its homeostasis have deleterious consequences on neuronal functions. The levels of several sterols, upstream of cholesterol, are markedly decreased within the striatum of HD mouse model. Transcription of cholesterol biosynthetic genes is reduced in HD cell and mouse models as well as post-mortem striatal and cortical tissues from HD patients. Since the dynamic of brain cholesterol metabolism is complex, it is essential to establish the best method to target it in HD. Cholesterol, which does not cross the blood-brain-barrier, is locally synthesized and renewed within the brain. All cell types in the CNS synthesize cholesterol during development but as they progress through adulthood, neurons down-regulate their cholesterol synthesis and turn to astrocytes for their full supply. Cellular levels of cholesterol reflect the dynamic balance between synthesis, uptake and export, all integrated into the context of the cross talk between neurons and glial cells. In this review, we describe the latest advances regarding the role of cholesterol deregulation in neuronal functions and how this could be a determinant factor in neuronal degeneration and HD progression. The pathways and major mechanisms by which cholesterol and sterols are regulated in the CNS will be described. From this overview, we discuss the main clinical strategies for manipulating cholesterol metabolism in the CNS, and how to reinstate a proper balance in HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radhia Kacher
- Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute (ICM), AP-HP, INSERM, CNRS, University Hospital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- INSERM, U1216, Grenoble Institut Neurosciences, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Coline Mounier
- Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, Faculté des Sciences et Ingénierie, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR 8246, Paris, France
- U1130, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Paris, France
| | - Jocelyne Caboche
- Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, Faculté des Sciences et Ingénierie, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR 8246, Paris, France
- U1130, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Paris, France
| | - Sandrine Betuing
- Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, Faculté des Sciences et Ingénierie, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR 8246, Paris, France
- U1130, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Paris, France
- *Correspondence: Sandrine Betuing,
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Brain Cholesterol Biosynthetic Pathway Is Altered in a Preclinical Model of Fragile X Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063408. [PMID: 35328827 PMCID: PMC8955806 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is the most frequent form of inherited X-linked pathology, associated with an intellectual and developmental disability, and currently considered the first monogenic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Low levels of total cholesterol reported in the serum of FXS patients, and evidence that FMRP targets a subset of mRNAs encoding proteins of lipid synthesis and transport suggests that the cholesterol metabolism impairments could be involved in FXS. Thus, the aim of the presented work was to investigate the modulations of the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway and its end-products in a recently developed Fmr1-Δexon 8 rat model of FXS. Here, we show that this experimental model mimics what is found in FXS patients, exhibiting a lower serum cholesterol content, accompanied by a reduction in food intake and body weight compared to WT animals. Moreover, alterations of proteins committed to cholesterol synthesis and uptake have been observed in the amygdala, prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens. Interestingly, the end-products show a brain region-dependent modulation in Fmr1-Δexon 8 rats. Overall, our results demonstrate that the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway is altered in some brain regions of this preclinical model of FXS. This finding has relevance for future studies to delve deeper into the involvement of this metabolic process in FXS, and thus its possible role as a therapeutic target.
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Jena PK, Setayesh T, Sheng L, Di Lucente J, Jin LW, Wan YJY. Intestinal Microbiota Remodeling Protects Mice from Western Diet-Induced Brain Inflammation and Cognitive Decline. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030504. [PMID: 35159313 PMCID: PMC8834507 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been shown that the Western diet (WD) induces systemic inflammation and cognitive decline. Moreover, probiotic supplementation and antibiotic treatment reduce diet-induced hepatic inflammation. The current study examines whether shaping the gut microbes by Bifidobacterium infantis (B. infantis) supplementation and antibiotic treatment reduce diet-induced brain inflammation and improve neuroplasticity. Furthermore, the significance of bile acid (BA) signaling in regulating brain inflammation was studied. Mice were fed a control diet (CD) or WD for seven months. B. infantis was supplemented to WD-fed mice to study brain inflammation, lipid, metabolomes, and neuroplasticity measured by long-term potentiation (LTP). Broad-spectrum coverage antibiotics and cholestyramine treatments were performed to study the impact of WD-associated gut microbes and BA in brain inflammation. Probiotic B. infantis supplementation inhibited diet-induced brain inflammation by reducing IL6, TNFα, and CD11b levels. B. infantis improved LTP and increased brain PSD95 and BDNF levels, which were reduced due to WD intake. Additionally, B. infantis reduced cecal cholesterol, brain ceramide and enhanced saturated fatty acids. Moreover, antibiotic treatment, as well as cholestyramine, diminished WD-induced brain inflammatory signaling. Our findings support the theory that intestinal microbiota remodeling by B. infantis reduces brain inflammation, activates BA receptor signaling, and improves neuroplasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasant Kumar Jena
- Department of Medical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (P.K.J.); (T.S.); (L.S.); (J.D.L.); (L.W.J.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Tahereh Setayesh
- Department of Medical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (P.K.J.); (T.S.); (L.S.); (J.D.L.); (L.W.J.)
| | - Lili Sheng
- Department of Medical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (P.K.J.); (T.S.); (L.S.); (J.D.L.); (L.W.J.)
| | - Jacopo Di Lucente
- Department of Medical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (P.K.J.); (T.S.); (L.S.); (J.D.L.); (L.W.J.)
| | - Lee Way Jin
- Department of Medical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (P.K.J.); (T.S.); (L.S.); (J.D.L.); (L.W.J.)
| | - Yu-Jui Yvonne Wan
- Department of Medical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (P.K.J.); (T.S.); (L.S.); (J.D.L.); (L.W.J.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-916-734-4293; Fax: +1-916-734-3787
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Brain cell type-specific cholesterol metabolism and implications for learning and memory. Trends Neurosci 2022; 45:401-414. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2022.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Pikuleva IA. Targeting cytochrome P450 46A1 and brain cholesterol 24-hydroxylation to treat neurodegenerative diseases. EXPLORATION OF NEUROPROTECTIVE THERAPY 2021; 1:159-172. [PMID: 35156102 DOI: 10.37349/ent.2021.00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The brain cholesterol content is determined by the balance between the pathways of in situ biosynthesis and cholesterol elimination via 24-hydroxylation catalyzed by CYP46A1 (cytochrome P450 46A1). Both pathways are tightly coupled and determine the rate of brain cholesterol turnover. Evidence is accumulating that modulation of CYP46A1 activity by gene therapy or pharmacologic means could be beneficial in case neurodegenerative and other brain diseases and affect brain processes other than cholesterol biosynthesis and elimination. This minireview summarizes these other processes, most common of which include abnormal protein accumulation, memory and cognition, motor behavior, gene transcription, protein phosphorylation as well as autophagy and lysosomal processing. The unifying mechanisms, by which these processes could be affected by CYP46A targeting are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina A Pikuleva
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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Pfrieger FW. Neurodegenerative Diseases and Cholesterol: Seeing the Field Through the Players. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:766587. [PMID: 34803658 PMCID: PMC8595328 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.766587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases, namely Alzheimer’s (AD), Parkinson’s (PD), and Huntington’s disease (HD) together with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and multiple sclerosis (MS), devastate millions of lives per year worldwide and impose an increasing socio-economic burden across nations. Consequently, these diseases occupy a considerable portion of biomedical research aiming to understand mechanisms of neurodegeneration and to develop efficient treatments. A potential culprit is cholesterol serving as an essential component of cellular membranes, as a cofactor of signaling pathways, and as a precursor for oxysterols and hormones. This article uncovers the workforce studying research on neurodegeneration and cholesterol using the TeamTree analysis. This new bibliometric approach reveals the history and dynamics of the teams and exposes key players based on citation-independent metrics. The team-centered view reveals the players on an important field of biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank W Pfrieger
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Strasbourg, France
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Cai S, Zhang D, Jiao X, Wang T, Fan M, Wang Y, Hejtmancik JF, Liu X. Novel compound heterozygous mutations in CYP1B1 identified in a Chinese family with developmental glaucoma. Mol Med Rep 2021; 24:803. [PMID: 34528698 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.12443] [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: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Developmental glaucoma, a subset of glaucoma, is associated with trabeculodysgenesis and/or anterior segment dysgenesis. It is one of the major causes of childhood blindness. Understanding its genetic background is important to diagnose, and identify potential therapeutic targets, of this disease. The present study aimed to detect the molecular origin of developmental glaucoma in a Chinese pedigree and its association with glaucomatous phenotypes. A three‑generation pedigree with developmental glaucoma was analyzed in the current study; a thorough ocular examination was performed on the proband and other individuals in the family. Genomic DNA was extracted from the peripheral blood of each individual, and possible disease‑causing genes were screened for mutations using a candidate gene panel. Exons and adjacent regions of the target genes were captured and enriched by probe hybridization. The enriched genes were sequenced on an Illumina high‑throughput sequencer. Variations were verified in other family members using Sanger sequencing. Disease causing mutations were analyzed by comparing the sequences and the structures of wild‑type and mutated cytochrome P450 family 1 subfamily B member 1 (CYP1B1) proteins using PyMOL software. The proband was diagnosed with developmental glaucoma and his parents and other relatives were asymptomatic. Novel compound heterozygous mutations, c.3G>A (p.M1I) and c.1310C>T (p.P437L), in CYP1B1 were detected in the proband, with the former inherited from his father and the latter from his mother. The c.3G>A (p.M1I) change is a novel mutation that disrupts the ATG start codon in exon one of CYP1B1 and therefore interferes with the translation start site. In conclusion, the findings of the present study suggested that the aforementioned compound heterozygous mutations in CYP1B1 may have caused developmental glaucoma in this Chinese family. The c.3G>A mutation in CYP1B1 is a novel mutation, and this study expands the gene mutation spectrum of CYP1B1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suping Cai
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, P.R. China
| | - Daren Zhang
- Xiamen Eye Center, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaodong Jiao
- Ophthalmic Genetics and Visual Function Branch, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20852, USA
| | - Tingting Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, School of Medical Technology and Engineering, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350004, P.R. China
| | - Mengjie Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, School of Medical Technology and Engineering, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350004, P.R. China
| | - Yun Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, P.R. China
| | - James Fielding Hejtmancik
- Ophthalmic Genetics and Visual Function Branch, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20852, USA
| | - Xuyang Liu
- Xiamen Eye Center, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361000, P.R. China
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