1
|
Zhang Y, Mu BR, Ran Z, Zhu T, Huang X, Yang X, Wang DM, Ma QH, Lu MH. Pericytes in Alzheimer's disease: Key players and therapeutic targets. Exp Neurol 2024; 379:114825. [PMID: 38777251 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114825] [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: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder that leads to progressive cognitive decline and neuropathological changes. Pericytes, which are vessel mural cells on the basement membrane of capillaries, play a crucial role in regulating cerebrovascular functions and maintaining neurovascular unit integrity. Emerging research substantiates the involvement of pericytes in AD. This review provides a comprehensive overview of pericytes, including their structure, origin, and markers and various functions within the central nervous system. Emphatically, the review explores the intricate mechanisms through which pericytes contribute to AD, including their interactions with amyloid beta and apolipoprotein E, as well as various signaling pathways. The review also highlights potential for targeted pericyte therapy for AD, with a focus on stem cell therapy and drug treatments. Future research directions include the classification of pericyte subtypes, studies related to aging, and the role of pericytes in exosome-related mechanisms in AD pathology. In conclusion, this review consolidates current knowledge on the pivotal roles of pericytes in AD and their potential as therapeutic targets, providing valuable insights for future research and clinical interventions aimed at addressing the impact of AD on patients' lives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sichuan-Chongqing Co-construction for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Ben-Rong Mu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sichuan-Chongqing Co-construction for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Zhao Ran
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sichuan-Chongqing Co-construction for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Tao Zhu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sichuan-Chongqing Co-construction for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215021, China
| | - Xiong Yang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sichuan-Chongqing Co-construction for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Dong-Mei Wang
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Quan-Hong Ma
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215021, China.
| | - Mei-Hong Lu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sichuan-Chongqing Co-construction for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Azargoonjahromi A. The duality of amyloid-β: its role in normal and Alzheimer's disease states. Mol Brain 2024; 17:44. [PMID: 39020435 PMCID: PMC11256416 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-024-01118-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a degenerative neurological condition that gradually impairs cognitive abilities, disrupts memory retention, and impedes daily functioning by impacting the cells of the brain. A key characteristic of AD is the accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques, which play pivotal roles in disease progression. These plaques initiate a cascade of events including neuroinflammation, synaptic dysfunction, tau pathology, oxidative stress, impaired protein clearance, mitochondrial dysfunction, and disrupted calcium homeostasis. Aβ accumulation is also closely associated with other hallmark features of AD, underscoring its significance. Aβ is generated through cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) and plays a dual role depending on its processing pathway. The non-amyloidogenic pathway reduces Aβ production and has neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, whereas the amyloidogenic pathway leads to the production of Aβ peptides, including Aβ40 and Aβ42, which contribute to neurodegeneration and toxic effects in AD. Understanding the multifaceted role of Aβ, particularly in AD, is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies that target Aβ metabolism, aggregation, and clearance with the aim of mitigating the detrimental consequences of the disease. This review aims to explore the mechanisms and functions of Aβ under normal and abnormal conditions, particularly in AD, by examining both its beneficial and detrimental effects.
Collapse
|
3
|
Branciamore S, Gogoshin G, Rodin AS, Myers AJ. Changes in expression of VGF, SPECC1L, HLA-DRA and RANBP3L act with APOE E4 to alter risk for late onset Alzheimer's disease. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14954. [PMID: 38942763 PMCID: PMC11213882 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65010-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024] Open
Abstract
While there are currently over 40 replicated genes with mapped risk alleles for Late Onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD), the Apolipoprotein E locus E4 haplotype is still the biggest driver of risk, with odds ratios for neuropathologically confirmed E44 carriers exceeding 30 (95% confidence interval 16.59-58.75). We sought to address whether the APOE E4 haplotype modifies expression globally through networks of expression to increase LOAD risk. We have used the Human Brainome data to build expression networks comparing APOE E4 carriers to non-carriers using scalable mixed-datatypes Bayesian network (BN) modeling. We have found that VGF had the greatest explanatory weight. High expression of VGF is a protective signal, even on the background of APOE E4 alleles. LOAD risk signals, considering an APOE background, include high levels of SPECC1L, HLA-DRA and RANBP3L. Our findings nominate several new transcripts, taking a combined approach to network building including known LOAD risk loci.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Branciamore
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Grigoriy Gogoshin
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Andrei S Rodin
- Department of Computational and Quantitative Medicine, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA.
| | - Amanda J Myers
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
- Institute for Data Science and Computing, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
- Interdepartmental Program in Neuroscience, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
- Interdepartmental Program in Human Genetics and Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Soelter TM, Howton TC, Clark AD, Oza VH, Lasseigne BN. Altered glia-neuron communication in Alzheimer's Disease affects WNT, p53, and NFkB Signaling determined by snRNA-seq. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:317. [PMID: 38849813 PMCID: PMC11157763 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01686-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia and is characterized by amyloid-β plaques, tau neurofibrillary tangles, and neuronal loss. Although neuronal loss is a primary hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, it is known that non-neuronal cell populations are ultimately responsible for maintaining brain homeostasis and neuronal health through neuron-glia and glial cell crosstalk. Many signaling pathways have been proposed to be dysregulated in Alzheimer's disease, including WNT, TGFβ, p53, mTOR, NFkB, and Pi3k/Akt signaling. Here, we predict altered cell-cell communication between glia and neurons. METHODS Using public snRNA-sequencing data generated from postmortem human prefrontal cortex, we predicted altered cell-cell communication between glia (astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells) and neurons (excitatory and inhibitory). We confirmed interactions in a second and third independent orthogonal dataset. We determined cell-type-specificity using Jaccard Similarity Index and investigated the downstream effects of altered interactions in inhibitory neurons through gene expression and transcription factor activity analyses of signaling mediators. Finally, we determined changes in pathway activity in inhibitory neurons. RESULTS Cell-cell communication between glia and neurons is altered in Alzheimer's disease in a cell-type-specific manner. As expected, ligands are more cell-type-specific than receptors and targets. We identified ligand-receptor pairs in three independent datasets and found involvement of the Alzheimer's disease risk genes APP and APOE across datasets. Most of the signaling mediators of these interactions were not significantly differentially expressed, however, the mediators that are also transcription factors had differential activity between AD and control. Namely, MYC and TP53, which are associated with WNT and p53 signaling, respectively, had decreased TF activity in Alzheimer's disease, along with decreased WNT and p53 pathway activity in inhibitory neurons. Additionally, inhibitory neurons had both increased NFkB signaling pathway activity and increased TF activity of NFIL3, an NFkB signaling-associated transcription factor. CONCLUSIONS Cell-cell communication between glia and neurons in Alzheimer's disease is altered in a cell-type-specific manner involving Alzheimer's disease risk genes. Signaling mediators had altered transcription factor activity suggesting altered glia-neuron interactions may dysregulate signaling pathways including WNT, p53, and NFkB in inhibitory neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tabea M Soelter
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Timothy C Howton
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Amanda D Clark
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Vishal H Oza
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Brittany N Lasseigne
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Azzini E, Peña-Corona SI, Hernández-Parra H, Chandran D, Saleena LAK, Sawikr Y, Peluso I, Dhumal S, Kumar M, Leyva-Gómez G, Martorell M, Sharifi-Rad J, Calina D. Neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin in Alzheimer's disease: Targeting neuroinflammation strategies. Phytother Res 2024; 38:3169-3189. [PMID: 38616356 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8200] [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: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, leading to neuronal loss. Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound derived from Curcuma longa, has shown potential neuroprotective effects due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This review aims to synthesize current preclinical data on the anti-neuroinflammatory mechanisms of curcumin in the context of AD, addressing its pharmacokinetics, bioavailability, and potential as a therapeutic adjunct. An exhaustive literature search was conducted, focusing on recent studies within the last 10 years related to curcumin's impact on neuroinflammation and its neuroprotective role in AD. The review methodology included sourcing articles from specialized databases using specific medical subject headings terms to ensure precision and relevance. Curcumin demonstrates significant neuroprotective properties by modulating neuroinflammatory pathways, scavenging reactive oxygen species, and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Despite its potential, challenges remain regarding its limited bioavailability and the scarcity of comprehensive human clinical trials. Curcumin emerges as a promising therapeutic adjunct in AD due to its multimodal neuroprotective benefits. However, further research is required to overcome challenges related to bioavailability and to establish effective dosing regimens in human subjects. Developing novel delivery systems and formulations may enhance curcumin's therapeutic potential in AD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Azzini
- Research Centre for Food and Nutrition, Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA-AN), Rome, Italy
| | - Sheila I Peña-Corona
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Héctor Hernández-Parra
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Deepak Chandran
- Department of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Amrita School of Agricultural Sciences, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University, Coimbatore, India
| | | | - Yousef Sawikr
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine University of Ajdabiya, Ajdabiya, Libya
| | - Ilaria Peluso
- Research Centre for Food and Nutrition, Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA-AN), Rome, Italy
| | - Sangram Dhumal
- Division of Horticulture, RCSM College of Agriculture, Kolhapur, India
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Chemical and Biochemical Processing Division, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology, Mumbai, India
| | - Gerardo Leyva-Gómez
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Miquel Martorell
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, and Centre for Healthy Living, University of Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | | | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Park H, Lee CH. The Impact of Pulmonary Disorders on Neurological Health (Lung-Brain Axis). Immune Netw 2024; 24:e20. [PMID: 38974208 PMCID: PMC11224666 DOI: 10.4110/in.2024.24.e20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The brain and lungs, vital organs in the body, play essential roles in maintaining overall well-being and survival. These organs interact through complex and sophisticated bi-directional pathways known as the 'lung-brain axis', facilitated by their close proximity and neural connections. Numerous studies have underscored the mediation of the lung-brain axis by inflammatory responses and hypoxia-induced damage, which are pivotal to the progression of both pulmonary and neurological diseases. This review aims to delve into how pulmonary diseases, including acute/chronic airway diseases and pulmonary conditions, can instigate neurological disorders such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. Additionally, we highlight the emerging research on the lung microbiome which, drawing parallels between the gut and lungs in terms of microbiome contents, may play a significant role in modulating brain health. Ultimately, this review paves the way for exciting avenues of future research and therapeutics in addressing respiratory and neurological diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongryeol Park
- Department of Tissue Morphogenesis, Max-Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Muenster 48149, Germany
| | - Chan Hee Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
- Program of Material Science for Medicine and Pharmaceutics, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lee CY, Riffle D, Xiong Y, Momtaz N, Lei Y, Pariser JM, Sikdar D, Hwang A, Duan Z, Zhang J. Characterizing dysregulations via cell-cell communications in Alzheimer's brains using single-cell transcriptomes. BMC Neurosci 2024; 25:24. [PMID: 38741048 PMCID: PMC11089696 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-024-00867-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder affecting 44 million people worldwide, leading to cognitive decline, memory loss, and significant impairment in daily functioning. The recent single-cell sequencing technology has revolutionized genetic and genomic resolution by enabling scientists to explore the diversity of gene expression patterns at the finest resolution. Most existing studies have solely focused on molecular perturbations within each cell, but cells live in microenvironments rather than in isolated entities. Here, we leveraged the large-scale and publicly available single-nucleus RNA sequencing in the human prefrontal cortex to investigate cell-to-cell communication in healthy brains and their perturbations in AD. We uniformly processed the snRNA-seq with strict QCs and labeled canonical cell types consistent with the definitions from the BRAIN Initiative Cell Census Network. From ligand and receptor gene expression, we built a high-confidence cell-to-cell communication network to investigate signaling differences between AD and healthy brains. RESULTS Specifically, we first performed broad communication pattern analyses to highlight that biologically related cell types in normal brains rely on largely overlapping signaling networks and that the AD brain exhibits the irregular inter-mixing of cell types and signaling pathways. Secondly, we performed a more focused cell-type-centric analysis and found that excitatory neurons in AD have significantly increased their communications to inhibitory neurons, while inhibitory neurons and other non-neuronal cells globally decreased theirs to all cells. Then, we delved deeper with a signaling-centric view, showing that canonical signaling pathways CSF, TGFβ, and CX3C are significantly dysregulated in their signaling to the cell type microglia/PVM and from endothelial to neuronal cells for the WNT pathway. Finally, after extracting 23 known AD risk genes, our intracellular communication analysis revealed a strong connection of extracellular ligand genes APP, APOE, and PSEN1 to intracellular AD risk genes TREM2, ABCA1, and APP in the communication from astrocytes and microglia to neurons. CONCLUSIONS In summary, with the novel advances in single-cell sequencing technologies, we show that cellular signaling is regulated in a cell-type-specific manner and that improper regulation of extracellular signaling genes is linked to intracellular risk genes, giving the mechanistic intra- and inter-cellular picture of AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Che Yu Lee
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Dylan Riffle
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Yifeng Xiong
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Nadia Momtaz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yutong Lei
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Joseph M Pariser
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Diptanshu Sikdar
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ahyeon Hwang
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Mathematical, Computational and Systems Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ziheng Duan
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Soelter TM, Howton TC, Clark AD, Oza VH, Lasseigne BN. Altered Glia-Neuron Communication in Alzheimer's Disease Affects WNT, p53, and NFkB Signaling Determined by snRNA-seq. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.11.29.569304. [PMID: 38076822 PMCID: PMC10705421 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.29.569304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Background Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia and is characterized by amyloid-β plaques, tau neurofibrillary tangles, and neuronal loss. Although neuronal loss is a primary hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, it is known that non-neuronal cell populations are ultimately responsible for maintaining brain homeostasis and neuronal health through neuron-glia and glial cell crosstalk. Many signaling pathways have been proposed to be dysregulated in Alzheimer's disease, including WNT, TGFβ, p53, mTOR, NFkB, and Pi3k/Akt signaling. Here, we predict altered cell-cell communication between glia and neurons. Methods Using public snRNA-sequencing data generated from postmortem human prefrontal cortex, we predicted altered cell-cell communication between glia (astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells) and neurons (excitatory and inhibitory). We confirmed interactions in a second and third independent orthogonal dataset. We determined cell-type-specificity using Jaccard Similarity Index and investigated the downstream effects of altered interactions in inhibitory neurons through gene expression and transcription factor activity analyses of signaling mediators. Finally, we determined changes in pathway activity in inhibitory neurons. Results Cell-cell communication between glia and neurons is altered in Alzheimer's disease in a cell-type-specific manner. As expected, ligands are more cell-type-specific than receptors and targets. We identified ligand-receptor pairs in three independent datasets and found involvement of the Alzheimer's disease risk genes APP and APOE across datasets. Most of the signaling mediators of these interactions were not differentially expressed, however, the mediators that are also transcription factors had differential activity between AD and control. Namely, MYC and TP53, which are associated with WNT and p53 signaling, respectively, had decreased TF activity in Alzheimer's disease, along with decreased WNT and p53 pathway activity in inhibitory neurons. Additionally, inhibitory neurons had both increased NFkB signaling pathway activity and increased TF activity of NFIL3, an NFkB signaling-associated transcription factor. Conclusions Cell-cell communication between glia and neurons in Alzheimer's disease is altered in a cell-type-specific manner involving Alzheimer's disease risk genes. Signaling mediators had altered transcription factor activity suggesting altered glia-neuron interactions may dysregulate signaling pathways including WNT, p53, and NFkB in inhibitory neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tabea M. Soelter
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Timothy C. Howton
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Amanda D. Clark
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Vishal H. Oza
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Brittany N. Lasseigne
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Eugenín J, Beltrán-Castillo S, Irribarra E, Pulgar-Sepúlveda R, Abarca N, von Bernhardi R. Microglial reactivity in brainstem chemosensory nuclei in response to hypercapnia. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1332355. [PMID: 38476146 PMCID: PMC10927973 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1332355] [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: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglia, the resident immune cells of the CNS, surveil, detect, and respond to various extracellular signals. Depending on the nature of these signals, an integrative microglial response can be triggered, resulting in a phenotypic transformation. Here, we evaluate whether hypercapnia modifies microglia phenotype in brainstem respiratory-related nuclei. Adult C57BL/6 inbred mice were exposed to 10% CO2 enriched air (hypercapnia), or pure air (control), for 10 or 30 min and immediately processed for immunohistochemistry to detect the ubiquitous microglia marker, ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1). Hypercapnia for thirty, but not 10 min reduced the Iba1 labeling percent coverage in the ventral respiratory column (VRC), raphe nucleus (RN), and nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) and the number of primary branches in VRC. The morphological changes persisted, at least, for 60 min breathing air after the hypercapnic challenge. No significant changes were observed in Iba1+ cells in the spinal trigeminal nucleus (Sp5) and the hippocampus. In CF-1 outbred mice, 10% CO2 followed by 60 min of breathing air, resulted in the reduction of Iba1 labeling percent coverage and the number and length of primary branches in VRC, RN, and NTS. No morphological change was observed in Iba1+ cells in Sp5 and hippocampus. Double immunofluorescence revealed that prolonged hypercapnia increased the expression of CD86, an inflammatory marker for reactive state microglia, in Iba1+ cells in VRC, RN, and NTS, but not in Sp5 and hippocampus in CF-1 mice. By contrast, the expression of CD206, a marker of regulatory state microglia, persisted unmodified. In brainstem, but not in hippocampal microglia cultures, hypercapnia increased the level of IL1β, but not that of TGFβ measured by ELISA. Our results show that microglia from respiratory-related chemosensory nuclei, are reactive to prolonged hypercapnia acquiring an inflammatory-like phenotype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Eugenín
- Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sebastián Beltrán-Castillo
- Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Centro Integrativo de Biología y Química Aplicada (CIBQA), Universidad Bernardo O’Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Estefanía Irribarra
- Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Nicolás Abarca
- Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Rommy von Bernhardi
- Facultad de Odontología y Ciencias de la Rehabilitación, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Saha P, Ahmad F. Neuroprotective, Anti-Inflammatory and Antifibrillogenic Offerings by Emodin against Alzheimer's Dementia: A Systematic Review. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:7296-7309. [PMID: 38405501 PMCID: PMC10882671 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c07178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is among the major causes of dementia in the elderly and exerts tremendous clinical, psychological and socio-economic constraints. Currently, there are no effective disease-modifying/retarding anti-AD agents. Emodin is a bioactive phytochemical with potent multimodal anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antifibrillogenic properties. In particular, emodin may result in significant repression of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying AD. The purpose of this review is to accumulate and summarize all the primary research data evaluating the therapeutic actions of emodin in AD pathogenesis. Methodology: The search, selection, and retrieval of pertinent primary research articles were systematically performed using a methodically designed approach. A variety of keyword combinations were employed on online scholarly web-databases. Strict preset inclusion and exclusion criteria were used to select the retrieved studies. Data from the individual studies were summarized and compiled into different sections, based upon their findings. Results: Cellular and animal research indicates that emodin exerts robust multimodal neuroprotection in AD. While emodin effectively prevents tau and amyloid-beta (Aβ) oligomerization, it also mitigates their neurotoxicity by attenuating neuroinflammatory, oxidative, and bioenergetic defects. Evidences for emodin-mediated enhancements in memory, learning, and cognition were also found in the literature. Conclusion: Emodin is a potential anti-AD dietary supplement; however, further studies are warrantied to thoroughly understand its target players and mechanisms. Moreover, human clinical data on emodin-mediated amelioration of AD phenotype is largely lacking, and must be addressed in the future. Lastly, the safety of exogenously supplemented emodin must be thoroughly evaluated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Saha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology (SBST), Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, India
| | - Faraz Ahmad
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology (SBST), Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, India
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
von Bernhardi R, Eugenín J. Aging Microglia and Their Impact in the Nervous System. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 37:379-395. [PMID: 39207703 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-55529-9_21] [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: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Aging is the greatest risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. Microglia are the resident immune cells in the central nervous system (CNS), playing key roles in its normal functioning, and as mediators for age-dependent changes of the CNS, condition at which they generate a hostile environment for neurons. Transforming Growth Factor β1 (TGFβ1) is a regulatory cytokine involved in immuneregulation and neuroprotection, affecting glial cell inflammatory activation, neuronal survival, and function. TGFβ1 signaling undergoes age-dependent changes affecting the regulation of microglial cells and can contribute to the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases. This chapter focuses on assessing the role of age-related changes on the regulation of microglial cells and their impact on neuroinflammation and neuronal function, for understanding age-dependent changes of the nervous system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rommy von Bernhardi
- Faculty of Odontology and Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad San Sebastian, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Jaime Eugenín
- Faculty of Chemistry and Biology, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chum PP, Bishara MA, Solis SR, Behringer EJ. Cerebrovascular miRNAs Track Early Development of Alzheimer's Disease and Target Molecular Markers of Angiogenesis and Blood Flow Regulation. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 99:S187-S234. [PMID: 37458037 PMCID: PMC10787821 DOI: 10.3233/jad-230300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Background Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with impaired cerebral circulation which underscores diminished delivery of blood oxygen and nutrients to and throughout the brain. In the 3xTg-AD mouse model, we have recently found that > 10 cerebrovascular miRNAs pertaining to vascular permeability, angiogenesis, and inflammation (e.g., let-7d, miR-99a, miR-132, miR-133a, miR-151-5p, and miR-181a) track early development of AD. Further, endothelial-specific miRNAs (miR-126-3p, miR-23a/b, miR-27a) alter with onset of overall AD pathology relative to stability of smooth muscle/pericyte-specific miRNAs (miR-143, miR-145). Objective We tested the hypothesis that cerebrovascular miRNAs indicating AD pathology share mRNA targets that regulate key endothelial cell functions such as angiogenesis, vascular permeability, and blood flow regulation. Methods As detected by NanoString nCounter miRNA Expression panel for 3xTg-AD mice, 61 cerebrovascular miRNAs and respective mRNA targets were examined using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis for canonical Cardiovascular (Cardio) and Nervous System (Neuro) Signaling. Results The number of targets regulated per miRNA were 21±2 and 33±3 for the Cardio and Neuro pathways respectively, whereby 14±2 targets overlap among pathways. Endothelial miRNAs primarily target members of the PDE, PDGF, SMAD, and VEGF families. Individual candidates regulated by≥4 miRNAs that best mark AD pathology presence in 3xTg-AD mice include CFL2, GRIN2B, PDGFB, SLC6A1, SMAD3, SYT3, and TNFRSF11B. Conclusion miRNAs selective for regulation of endothelial function and respective downstream mRNA targets support a molecular basis for dysregulated cerebral blood flow regulation coupled with enhanced cell growth, proliferation, and inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe P. Chum
- Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Branciamore S, Gogoshin G, Rodin AS, Myers AJ. The Human Brainome: changes in expression of VGF, SPECC1L, HLA-DRA and RANBP3L act with APOE E4 to alter risk for late onset Alzheimer's disease. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3678057. [PMID: 38168398 PMCID: PMC10760217 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3678057/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
While there are currently over 40 replicated genes with mapped risk alleles for Late Onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD), the Apolipoprotein E locus E4 haplotype is still the biggest driver of risk, with odds ratios for neuropathologically confirmed E44 carriers exceeding 30 (95% confidence interval 16.59-58.75). We sought to address whether the APOE E4 haplotype modifies expression globally through networks of expression to increase LOAD risk. We have used the Human Brainome data to build expression networks comparing APOE E4 carriers to non-carriers using scalable mixed-datatypes Bayesian network (BN) modeling. We have found that VGF had the greatest explanatory weight. High expression of VGF is a protective signal, even on the background of APOE E4 alleles. LOAD risk signals, considering an APOE background, include high levels of SPECC1L, HLA-DRA and RANBP3L. Our findings nominate several new transcripts, taking a combined approach to network building including known LOAD risk loci.
Collapse
|
14
|
Young JJ, Park HJ, Kim M, Par-Young J, Bartlett H, Kim HS, Unlu S, Osmani L, Shin MS, Bucala R, van Dyck CH, Allore H, Mecca AP, You S, Kang I. Aging gene signature of memory CD8 + T cells is associated with neurocognitive functioning in Alzheimer's disease. Immun Ageing 2023; 20:71. [PMID: 38042785 PMCID: PMC10693128 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-023-00396-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: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Memory CD8+ T cells expand with age. We previously demonstrated an age-associated expansion of effector memory (EM) CD8+ T cells expressing low levels of IL-7 receptor alpha (IL-7Rαlow) and the presence of its gene signature (i.e., IL-7Rαlow aging genes) in peripheral blood of older adults without Alzheimer's disease (AD). Considering age as the strongest risk factor for AD and the recent finding of EM CD8+ T cell expansion, mostly IL-7Rαlow cells, in AD, we investigated whether subjects with AD have alterations in IL-7Rαlow aging gene signature, especially in relation to genes possibly associated with AD and disease severity. RESULTS We identified a set of 29 candidate genes (i.e., putative AD genes) which could be differentially expressed in peripheral blood of patients with AD through the systematic search of publicly available datasets. Of the 29 putative AD genes, 9 genes (31%) were IL-7Rαlow aging genes (P < 0.001), suggesting the possible implication of IL-7Rαlow aging genes in AD. These findings were validated by RT-qPCR analysis of 40 genes, including 29 putative AD genes, additional 9 top IL-7R⍺low aging but not the putative AD genes, and 2 inflammatory control genes in peripheral blood of cognitively normal persons (CN, 38 subjects) and patients with AD (40 mild cognitive impairment and 43 dementia subjects). The RT-qPCR results showed 8 differentially expressed genes between AD and CN groups; five (62.5%) of which were top IL-7Rαlow aging genes (FGFBP2, GZMH, NUAK1, PRSS23, TGFBR3) not previously reported to be altered in AD. Unbiased clustering analysis revealed 3 clusters of dementia patients with distinct expression levels of the 40 analyzed genes, including IL-7Rαlow aging genes, which were associated with neurocognitive function as determined by MoCA, CDRsob and neuropsychological testing. CONCLUSIONS We report differential expression of "normal" aging genes associated with IL-7Rαlow EM CD8+ T cells in peripheral blood of patients with AD, and the significance of such gene expression in clustering subjects with dementia due to AD into groups with different levels of cognitive functioning. These results provide a platform for studies investigating the possible implications of age-related immune changes, including those associated with CD8+ T cells, in AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Joseph Young
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, 300 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Hong-Jai Park
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, 300 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Minhyung Kim
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jennefer Par-Young
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, 300 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Hugh Bartlett
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, 300 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Hye Sun Kim
- Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Serhan Unlu
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, 300 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Fairview Hospital, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Lais Osmani
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, 300 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Min Sun Shin
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, 300 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Richard Bucala
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, 300 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Christopher H van Dyck
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, 300 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Heather Allore
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, 300 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Adam P Mecca
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, 300 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Sungyong You
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Insoo Kang
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, 300 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Afsar A, Chen M, Xuan Z, Zhang L. A glance through the effects of CD4 + T cells, CD8 + T cells, and cytokines on Alzheimer's disease. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2023; 21:5662-5675. [PMID: 38053545 PMCID: PMC10694609 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.10.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. Unfortunately, despite numerous studies, an effective treatment for AD has not yet been established. There is remarkable evidence indicating that the innate immune mechanism and adaptive immune response play significant roles in the pathogenesis of AD. Several studies have reported changes in CD8+ and CD4+ T cells in AD patients. This mini-review article discusses the potential contribution of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells reactivity to amyloid β (Aβ) protein in individuals with AD. Moreover, this mini-review examines the potential associations between T cells, heme oxygenase (HO), and impaired mitochondria in the context of AD. While current mathematical models of AD have not extensively addressed the inclusion of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, there exist models that can be extended to consider AD as an autoimmune disease involving these T cell types. Additionally, the mini-review covers recent research that has investigated the utilization of machine learning models, considering the impact of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atefeh Afsar
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA
| | - Min Chen
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA
| | - Zhenyu Xuan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Nithianandam V, Bukhari H, Leventhal MJ, Battaglia RA, Dong X, Fraenkel E, Feany MB. Integrative analysis reveals a conserved role for the amyloid precursor protein in proteostasis during aging. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7034. [PMID: 37923712 PMCID: PMC10624868 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42822-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Aβ peptides derived from the amyloid precursor protein (APP) have been strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. However, the normal function of APP and the importance of that role in neurodegenerative disease is less clear. We recover the Drosophila ortholog of APP, Appl, in an unbiased forward genetic screen for neurodegeneration mutants. We perform comprehensive single cell transcriptional and proteomic studies of Appl mutant flies to investigate Appl function in the aging brain. We find an unexpected role for Appl in control of multiple cellular pathways, including translation, mitochondrial function, nucleic acid and lipid metabolism, cellular signaling and proteostasis. We mechanistically define a role for Appl in regulating autophagy through TGFβ signaling and document the broader relevance of our findings using mouse genetic, human iPSC and in vivo tauopathy models. Our results demonstrate a conserved role for APP in controlling age-dependent proteostasis with plausible relevance to Alzheimer's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanitha Nithianandam
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
| | - Hassan Bukhari
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
| | - Matthew J Leventhal
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- MIT Ph.D. Program in Computational and Systems Biology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Rachel A Battaglia
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
| | - Xianjun Dong
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Hub, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ernest Fraenkel
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Mel B Feany
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Piergiorge RM, da Silva Francisco Junior R, de Vasconcelos ATR, Santos-Rebouças CB. Multi-layered transcriptomic analysis reveals a pivotal role of FMR1 and other developmental genes in Alzheimer's disease-associated brain ceRNA network. Comput Biol Med 2023; 166:107494. [PMID: 37769462 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.107494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an increasingly neurodegenerative disorder that causes progressive cognitive decline and memory impairment. Despite extensive research, the underlying causes of late-onset AD (LOAD) are still in progress. This study aimed to establish a network of competing regulatory interactions involving circular RNAs (circRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) connected to LOAD. A systematic analysis of publicly available expression data was conducted to identify integrated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the hippocampus of LOAD patients. Subsequently, gene co-expression analysis identified modules comprising highly expressed DEGs that act cooperatively. The competition between co-expressed DEGs and miRNAs/RBPs and the simultaneous interactions between circRNA and miRNA/RBP revealed a complex ceRNA network responsible for post-transcriptional regulation in LOAD. Hippocampal expression data for miRNAs, circRNAs, and RBPs were used to filter relevant relationships for AD. An integrated topological score was used to identify the highly connected hub gene, from which a brain core ceRNA subnetwork was generated. The Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMR1) coding for the RBP FMRP emerged as the prominent driver gene in this subnetwork. FMRP has been previously related to AD but not in a ceRNA network context. Also, the substantial number of neurodevelopmental genes in the ceRNA subnetwork and their related biological pathways strengthen that AD shares common pathological mechanisms with developmental conditions. Our results enhance the current knowledge about the convergent ceRNA regulatory pathways underlying AD and provide potential targets for identifying early biomarkers and developing novel therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Mina Piergiorge
- Department of Genetics, Institute of Biology Roberto Alcantara Gomes, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | - Cíntia Barros Santos-Rebouças
- Department of Genetics, Institute of Biology Roberto Alcantara Gomes, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Chen BH, Lu XQ, Liang XH, Wang P. Serpin E1 mediates the induction of renal tubular degeneration and premature senescence upon diabetic insult. Sci Rep 2023; 13:16210. [PMID: 37758806 PMCID: PMC10533493 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43411-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
As a leading cause of chronic kidney disease, diabetic kidney disease (DKD) involves insidious but progressive impairments of renal tubules, and is associated with premature renal aging. The underlying pathomechanisms remain elusive. Post hoc analyses of the publicly-available renal transcriptome revealed that TGFβ1 is overexpressed in renal tubulointerstitia in patients with DKD and positively correlated with kidney aging signaling. This finding was validated in kidney biopsy specimens collected from patients with DKD, associated with renal tubular senescence and degenerative changes. In vitro in renal tubular epithelial cells, exposure to a diabetic milieu, stimulated with high ambient glucose and TGFβ1, elicited premature senescence, as evidenced by staining for senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity and increased expression of p16INK4A, and p53. This coincided with Serpin E1 induction, in parallel with increased fibronectin accumulation and reduced expression of the epithelial marker E-cadherin, all indicative of degenerative changes. Reminiscent of the action of typical senolytics, a small molecule inhibitor of Serpin E1 substantially mitigated the pro-senescent and degenerating effects of the diabetic milieu, suggesting an essential role of Serpin E1 in mediating renal tubular senescence upon diabetic insult. Moreover, inhibition of Serpin E1 abolished the diabetic insult-triggered paracrine senescence of renal tubular cells. In consistency, in patients with DKD, renal tubular expression of Serpin E1 was upregulated and positively correlated with tubular senescence and fibrosis in renal tubulointerstitia. Collectively, diabetic insult induces renal tubular degeneration and premature senescence via, at least in part, Serpin E1 signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Han Chen
- Blood Purification Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Research Institute of Nephrology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiao Qing Lu
- Blood Purification Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xian Hui Liang
- Blood Purification Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Pei Wang
- Blood Purification Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
- Research Institute of Nephrology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
- Blood Purification Center, Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lo TY, Chan ASL, Cheung ST, Yung LY, Leung MMH, Wong YH. Multi-target regulatory mechanism of Yang Xin Tang - a traditional Chinese medicine against dementia. Chin Med 2023; 18:101. [PMID: 37587513 PMCID: PMC10428601 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-023-00813-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Yang Xin Tang (YXT) is a traditional Chinese herbal preparation which has been reported to improve cognitive function and memory in patients with dementia. As the underlying mechanism of action of YXT has not been elucidated, we examined the effects of YXT and its major herbal components in regulating gene transcription and molecular targets related to Alzheimer's disease (AD). METHODS Aqueous and ethanol extracts of YXT and selected herbal components were prepared and validated by standard methods. A series of biochemical and cellular assays were employed to assess the ability of the herbal extracts to inhibit acetylcholinesterase, reduce β-amyloid aggregation, stimulate the differentiation of neural progenitor cells, suppress cyclooxygenase, and protect neurons against β-amyloid or N-methyl-D-aspartate-induced cytotoxicity. The effects of YXT on multiple molecular targets were further corroborated by a panel of nine reporter gene assays. RESULTS Extracts of YXT and two of its constituent herbs, Poria cocos and Poria Sclerotium pararadicis, significantly inhibited β-amyloid aggregation and β-amyloid-induced cytotoxicity. A protective effect of the YXT extract was similarly observed against N-methyl-D-aspartate-induced cytotoxicity in primary neurons, and this activity was shared by extracts of Radix Astragali and Rhizoma Chuanxiong. Although the YXT extract was ineffective, extracts of Poria cocos, Poria Sclerotium pararadicis and Radix Polygalae inhibited acetylcholine esterase, with the latter also capable of upregulating choline acetyltransferase. YXT and its components significantly inhibited the activities of the pro-inflammatory cyclooxygenases. Additionally, extracts of YXT and several of its constituent herbs significantly stimulated the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases and cAMP-responsive element binding protein, two molecular targets involved in learning and memory, as well as in the regulation of neurogenesis. CONCLUSIONS Several constituents of YXT possess multiple regulatory effects on known therapeutic targets of AD that range from β-amyloid to acetylcholinesterase. The demonstrated neuroprotective and neurogenic actions of YXT lend credence to its use as an alternative medicine for treating AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tung Yan Lo
- Division of Life Science and the Biotechnology Research Institute, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Anthony Siu Lung Chan
- Division of Life Science and the Biotechnology Research Institute, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Suet Ting Cheung
- Division of Life Science and the Biotechnology Research Institute, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lisa Ying Yung
- Division of Life Science and the Biotechnology Research Institute, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Manton Man Hon Leung
- Division of Life Science and the Biotechnology Research Institute, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Yung Hou Wong
- Division of Life Science and the Biotechnology Research Institute, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Molecular Neuroscience Center, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China.
- Center for Aging Science, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China.
- Hong Kong Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Units 1501-1502, 17 Science Park West Avenue, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Alam J, Huda MN, Tackett AJ, Miah S. Oncogenic signaling-mediated regulation of chromatin during tumorigenesis. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:409-425. [PMID: 37147457 PMCID: PMC10348982 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10104-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Signaling pathways play critical roles in executing and controlling important biological processes within cells. Cells/organisms trigger appropriate signal transduction pathways in order to turn on or off intracellular gene expression in response to environmental stimuli. An orchestrated regulation of different signaling pathways across different organs and tissues is the basis of many important biological functions. Presumably, any malfunctions or dysregulation of these signaling pathways contribute to the pathogenesis of disease, particularly cancer. In this review, we discuss how the dysregulation of signaling pathways (TGF-β signaling, Hippo signaling, Wnt signaling, Notch signaling, and PI3K-AKT signaling) modulates chromatin modifications to regulate the epigenome, thereby contributing to tumorigenesis and metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jahangir Alam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Md Nazmul Huda
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Alan J Tackett
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
- Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Sayem Miah
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
- Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Young J, Park HJ, Kim M, Par-Young J, Bartlett H, Kim HS, Unlu S, Osmani L, Shin MS, Bucala R, van Dyck C, Allore H, Mecca A, You S, Kang I. Aging gene signature of IL-7 receptor alpha low effector memory CD8 + T cells is associated with neurocognitive functioning in Alzheimer's disease. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2736771. [PMID: 37066364 PMCID: PMC10104241 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2736771/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
CD45RA+ effector memory (EM) CD8+ T cell expansion was reported in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Such cells are IL-7 receptor alpha (IL-7Rα)low EM CD8+ T cells, which expand with age and have a unique aging gene signature (i.e., IL-7Rαlow aging genes). Here we investigated whether IL-7Rαlow aging genes and previously reported AD and memory (ADM) genes overlapped with clinical significance in AD patients. RT-qPCR analysis of 40 genes, including 29 ADM, 9 top IL-7Ralow aging and 2 control genes, showed 8 differentially expressed genes between AD and cognitively normal groups; five (62.5%) of which were top IL-7Rαlow aging genes. Over-representation analysis revealed that these genes were highly present in molecular and biological pathways associated with AD. Distinct expression levels of these genes were associated with neuropsychological testing performance in 3 subgroups of dementia participants. Our findings support the possible implication of the IL-7Rαlow aging gene signature with AD.
Collapse
|
22
|
Kapoor M, Chinnathambi S. TGF-β1 signalling in Alzheimer's pathology and cytoskeletal reorganization: a specialized Tau perspective. J Neuroinflammation 2023; 20:72. [PMID: 36915196 PMCID: PMC10012507 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-023-02751-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Microtubule-associated protein, Tau has been implicated in Alzheimer's disease for its detachment from microtubules and formation of insoluble intracellular aggregates within the neurons. Recent findings have suggested the expulsion of Tau seeds in the extracellular domain and their prion-like propagation between neurons. Transforming Growth Factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is a ubiquitously occurring cytokine reported to carry out immunomodulation and neuroprotection in the brain. TGF-β-mediated regulation occurs at the level of neuronal survival and differentiation, glial activation (astrocyte and microglia), amyloid production-distribution-clearance and neurofibrillary tangle formation, all of which contributes to Alzheimer's pathophysiology. Its role in the reorganization of cytoskeletal architecture and remodelling of extracellular matrix to facilitate cellular migration has been well-documented. Microglia are the resident immune sentinels of the brain responsible for surveying the local microenvironment, migrating towards the beacon of pertinent damage and phagocytosing the cellular debris or patho-protein deposits at the site of insult. Channelizing microglia to target extracellular Tau could be a good strategy to combat the prion-like transmission and seeding problem in Alzheimer's disease. The current review focuses on reaffirming the role of TGF-β1 signalling in Alzheimer's pathology and cytoskeletal reorganization and considers utilizing the approach of TGF-β-triggered microglia-mediated targeting of extracellular patho-protein, Tau, as a possible potential strategy to combat Alzheimer's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahima Kapoor
- Neurobiology Group, Division of Biochemical Sciences, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL), Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, 411008, Pune, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Subashchandrabose Chinnathambi
- Neurobiology Group, Division of Biochemical Sciences, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL), Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, 411008, Pune, India. .,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India. .,Department of Neurochemistry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Institute of National Importance, Hosur Road, Bangalore, 560029, Karnataka, India.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Yang C, Xu P. The role of transforming growth factor β1 /Smad pathway in Alzheimer's disease inflammation pathology. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:777-788. [PMID: 36319781 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07951-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), a progressive disorder, has become a global health problem and is now the main cause of dementia. The aetiology of AD is complex and remains elusive making effective AD treatment difficult. Current drugs for AD only improve symptoms but do not interfere with pathogenic mechanisms. Three main hypotheses have been brought forward regarding AD aetiology, one of them being the 'inflammation hypothesis'. A number of studies have demonstrated that inflammation plays a critical role in AD. Self-limiting neuroinflammation is considered beneficial to AD, whereas chronic inflammation aggravates brain injury and neuronal death. Transforming growth factor β 1(TGF-β1) is an anti-inflammatory cytokine with neuroprotective properties. Smad proteins are downstream molecules of TGF-β signalling. They are cytoplasmic transcription factors that can regulate targeted gene expression. In AD, impairments of TGF-β1/Smad pathways have been observed. Moreover, microglia, astrocytes, inflammasomes, and insulin resistance also have been implicated in AD pathogenesis. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying AD pathogenesis is a fundamental step toward designing new treatment options. In this review, we detail the changes in TGF-β1/Smad pathways in AD and hope this will facilitate further research on AD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunlan Yang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Ping Xu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Bharthur Sanjay A, Patania A, Yan X, Svaldi D, Duran T, Shah N, Nemes S, Chen E, Apostolova LG. Characterization of gene expression patterns in mild cognitive impairment using a transcriptomics approach and neuroimaging endophenotypes. Alzheimers Dement 2022; 18:2493-2508. [PMID: 35142026 PMCID: PMC10078657 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Identification of novel therapeutics and risk assessment in early stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a crucial aspect of addressing this complex disease. We characterized gene-expression patterns at the mild cognitive impairment (MCI) stage to identify critical mRNA measures and gene clusters associated with AD pathogenesis. METHODS We used a transcriptomics approach, integrating magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and peripheral blood-based gene expression data using persistent homology (PH) followed by kernel-based clustering. RESULTS We identified three clusters of genes significantly associated with diagnosis of amnestic MCI. The biological processes associated with each cluster were mitochondrial function, NF-kB signaling, and apoptosis. Cluster-level associations with cortical thickness displayed canonical AD-like patterns. Driver genes from clusters were also validated in an external dataset for prediction of amyloidosis and clinical diagnosis. DISCUSSION We found a disease-relevant transcriptomic signature sensitive to prodromal AD and identified a subset of potential therapeutic targets associated with AD pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alice Patania
- Indiana University Network Sciences InstituteIndiana UniversityBloomingtonIndianaUSA
| | - Xiaoran Yan
- Indiana University Network Sciences InstituteIndiana UniversityBloomingtonIndianaUSA
| | - Diana Svaldi
- Department of NeurologyIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Tugce Duran
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gerontology & Geriatric MedicineWake Forest School of MedicineWinston‐SalemNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Niraj Shah
- Department of NeurologyIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Sara Nemes
- Department of NeurologyIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Eric Chen
- Department of NeurologyIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Liana G. Apostolova
- Department of NeurologyIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
C. Silva T, Young JI, Zhang L, Gomez L, Schmidt MA, Varma A, Chen XS, Martin ER, Wang L. Cross-tissue analysis of blood and brain epigenome-wide association studies in Alzheimer's disease. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4852. [PMID: 35982059 PMCID: PMC9388493 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32475-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
To better understand DNA methylation in Alzheimer's disease (AD) from both mechanistic and biomarker perspectives, we performed an epigenome-wide meta-analysis of blood DNA methylation in two large independent blood-based studies in AD, the ADNI and AIBL studies, and identified 5 CpGs, mapped to the SPIDR, CDH6 genes, and intergenic regions, that are significantly associated with AD diagnosis. A cross-tissue analysis that combined these blood DNA methylation datasets with four brain methylation datasets prioritized 97 CpGs and 10 genomic regions that are significantly associated with both AD neuropathology and AD diagnosis. An out-of-sample validation using the AddNeuroMed dataset showed the best performing logistic regression model includes age, sex, immune cell type proportions, and methylation risk score based on prioritized CpGs in cross-tissue analysis (AUC = 0.696, 95% CI: 0.616 - 0.770, P-value = 2.78 × 10-5). Our study offers new insights into epigenetics in AD and provides a valuable resource for future AD biomarker discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiago C. Silva
- grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606Division of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Juan I. Young
- grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606Dr. John T Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA ,grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Lanyu Zhang
- grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606Division of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Lissette Gomez
- grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Michael A. Schmidt
- grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Achintya Varma
- grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - X. Steven Chen
- grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606Division of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA ,grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Eden R. Martin
- grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606Dr. John T Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA ,grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| | - Lily Wang
- grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606Division of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA ,grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606Dr. John T Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA ,grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA ,grid.26790.3a0000 0004 1936 8606Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136 USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Leung HW, Foo G, VanDongen A. Arc Regulates Transcription of Genes for Plasticity, Excitability and Alzheimer’s Disease. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10081946. [PMID: 36009494 PMCID: PMC9405677 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The immediate early gene Arc is a master regulator of synaptic function and a critical determinant of memory consolidation. Here, we show that Arc interacts with dynamic chromatin and closely associates with histone markers for active enhancers and transcription in cultured rat hippocampal neurons. Both these histone modifications, H3K27Ac and H3K9Ac, have recently been shown to be upregulated in late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD). When Arc induction by pharmacological network activation was prevented using a short hairpin RNA, the expression profile was altered for over 1900 genes, which included genes associated with synaptic function, neuronal plasticity, intrinsic excitability, and signalling pathways. Interestingly, about 100 Arc-dependent genes are associated with the pathophysiology of AD. When endogenous Arc expression was induced in HEK293T cells, the transcription of many neuronal genes was increased, suggesting that Arc can control expression in the absence of activated signalling pathways. Taken together, these data establish Arc as a master regulator of neuronal activity-dependent gene expression and suggest that it plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Gabriel Foo
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Antonius VanDongen
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Microglia in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Favorable Cellular Target to Ameliorate Alzheimer’s Pathogenesis. Mediators Inflamm 2022; 2022:6052932. [PMID: 35693110 PMCID: PMC9184163 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6052932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglial cells serve as molecular sensors of the brain that play a role in physiological and pathological conditions. Under normal physiology, microglia are primarily responsible for regulating central nervous system homeostasis through the phagocytic clearance of redundant protein aggregates, apoptotic cells, damaged neurons, and synapses. Furthermore, microglial cells can promote and mitigate amyloid β phagocytosis and tau phosphorylation. Dysregulation of the microglial programming alters cellular morphology, molecular signaling, and secretory inflammatory molecules that contribute to various neurodegenerative disorders especially Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Furthermore, microglia are considered primary sources of inflammatory molecules and can induce or regulate a broad spectrum of cellular responses. Interestingly, in AD, microglia play a double-edged role in disease progression; for instance, the detrimental microglial effects increase in AD while microglial beneficiary mechanisms are jeopardized. Depending on the disease stages, microglial cells are expressed differently, which may open new avenues for AD therapy. However, the disease-related role of microglial cells and their receptors in the AD brain remain unclear. Therefore, this review represents the role of microglial cells and their involvement in AD pathogenesis.
Collapse
|
28
|
Luo J. TGF-β as a Key Modulator of Astrocyte Reactivity: Disease Relevance and Therapeutic Implications. Biomedicines 2022; 10:1206. [PMID: 35625943 PMCID: PMC9138510 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10051206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are essential for normal brain development and functioning. They respond to brain injury and disease through a process referred to as reactive astrogliosis, where the reactivity is highly heterogenous and context-dependent. Reactive astrocytes are active contributors to brain pathology and can exert beneficial, detrimental, or mixed effects following brain insults. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) has been identified as one of the key factors regulating astrocyte reactivity. The genetic and pharmacological manipulation of the TGF-β signaling pathway in animal models of central nervous system (CNS) injury and disease alters pathological and functional outcomes. This review aims to provide recent understanding regarding astrocyte reactivity and TGF-β signaling in brain injury, aging, and neurodegeneration. Further, it explores how TGF-β signaling modulates astrocyte reactivity and function in the context of CNS disease and injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Luo
- Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research, VAPAHCS, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Xie Y, Jia Y, Li Z, Hu F. Scavenger receptor A in immunity and autoimmune diseases: Compelling evidence for targeted therapy. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:461-477. [PMID: 35510370 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2072729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Scavenger receptor A (SR-A) is reported to be involved in innate and adaptive immunity and in recent years, the soluble form of SR-A has also been identified. Intriguingly, SR-A displays double-edged sword features in different diseases. Moreover, targeted therapy on SR-A, including genetic modulation, small molecule inhibitor, inhibitory peptides, fucoidan, and blocking antibodies, provides potential strategies for treatment. Currently, therapeutics targeting SR-A are in preclinical studies and clinical trials, revealing great perspectives in future immunotherapy. AREAS COVERED Through searching PubMed (January 1979-March 2022) and clinicaltrials.gov, we review most of the research and clinical trials involving SR-A. This review briefly summarizes recent study advances on SR-A, with particular concern on its role in immunity and autoimmune diseases. EXPERT OPINION Given the emerging evidence of SR-A in immunity, its targeted therapy has been studied in various diseases, especially autoimmune diseases. However, many challenges still remain to be overcome, such as the double-sworded effects and the specific isoform targeting. For further clinical success of SR-A targeted therapy, the crystal structure illustration and the dual function discrimination of SR-A should be further investigated. Nevertheless, although challenging, targeting SR-A would be a potential effective strategy in the treatment of autoimmune diseases and other immune-related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Xie
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Peking University People's Hospital & Beijing Key Laboratory for Rheumatism Mechanism and Immune Diagnosis (BZ0135), Beijing, Peking, China
| | - Yuan Jia
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Peking University People's Hospital & Beijing Key Laboratory for Rheumatism Mechanism and Immune Diagnosis (BZ0135), Beijing, Peking, China
| | - Zhanguo Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Peking University People's Hospital & Beijing Key Laboratory for Rheumatism Mechanism and Immune Diagnosis (BZ0135), Beijing, Peking, China.,State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, Peking, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, Peking, China
| | - Fanlei Hu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Peking University People's Hospital & Beijing Key Laboratory for Rheumatism Mechanism and Immune Diagnosis (BZ0135), Beijing, Peking, China.,State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, Peking, China.,Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, Peking, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Revuelta M, Urrutia J, Villarroel A, Casis O. Microglia-Mediated Inflammation and Neural Stem Cell Differentiation in Alzheimer's Disease: Possible Therapeutic Role of K V1.3 Channel Blockade. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:868842. [PMID: 35530176 PMCID: PMC9070300 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.868842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Increase of deposits of amyloid β peptides in the extracellular matrix is landmark during Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) due to the imbalance in the production vs. clearance. This accumulation of amyloid β deposits triggers microglial activation. Microglia plays a dual role in AD, a protective role by clearing the deposits of amyloid β peptides increasing the phagocytic response (CD163, IGF-1 or BDNF) and a cytotoxic role, releasing free radicals (ROS or NO) and proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β) in response to reactive gliosis activated by the amyloid β aggregates. Microglia activation correlated with an increase KV1.3 channels expression, protein levels and current density. Several studies highlight the importance of KV1.3 in the activation of inflammatory response and inhibition of neural progenitor cell proliferation and neuronal differentiation. However, little is known about the pathways of this activation in neural stem cells differentiation and proliferation and the role in amyloid β accumulation. In recent studies using in vitro cells derived from mice models, it has been demonstrated that KV1.3 blockers inhibit microglia-mediated neurotoxicity in culture reducing the expression and production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α through the NF-kB and p38MAPK pathway. Overall, we conclude that KV1.3 blockers change the course of AD development, reducing microglial cytotoxic activation and increasing neural stem cell differentiation. However, further investigations are needed to establish the specific pathway and to validate the use of this blocker as therapeutic treatment in Alzheimer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miren Revuelta
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain
| | - Janire Urrutia
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain
| | - Alvaro Villarroel
- Instituto Biofisika, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of the Basque Country/Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain
| | - Oscar Casis
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
NADPH oxidase-induced activation of transforming growth factor-beta-1 causes neuropathy by suppressing antioxidant signaling pathways in alcohol use disorder. Neuropharmacology 2022; 213:109136. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
32
|
Bioactive Compounds and Their Derivatives: An Insight into Prospective Phytotherapeutic Approach against Alzheimer’s Disease. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:5100904. [PMID: 35450410 PMCID: PMC9017558 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5100904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative brain disorder that causes cellular response alterations, such as impaired cholinergic mechanism, amyloid-beta (Aβ) AD aggregation, neuroinflammation, and several other pathways. AD is still the most prevalent form of dementia and affects many individuals across the globe. The exact cause of the disorder is obscure. There are yet no effective medications for halting, preventing, or curing AD's progress. Plenty of natural products are isolated from several sources and analyzed in preclinical and clinical settings for neuroprotective effects in preventing and treating AD. In addition, natural products and their derivatives have been promising in treating and preventing AD. Natural bioactive compounds play an active modulatory role in the pathological molecular mechanisms of AD development. This review focuses on natural products from plant sources and their derivatives that have demonstrated neuroprotective activities and maybe promising to treat and prevent AD. In addition, this article summarizes the literature pertaining to natural products as agents in the treatment of AD. Rapid metabolism, nonspecific targeting, low solubility, lack of BBB permeability, and limited bioavailability are shortcomings of most bioactive molecules in treating AD. We can use nanotechnology and nanocarriers based on different types of approaches.
Collapse
|
33
|
Salas-Venegas V, Flores-Torres RP, Rodríguez-Cortés YM, Rodríguez-Retana D, Ramírez-Carreto RJ, Concepción-Carrillo LE, Pérez-Flores LJ, Alarcón-Aguilar A, López-Díazguerrero NE, Gómez-González B, Chavarría A, Konigsberg M. The Obese Brain: Mechanisms of Systemic and Local Inflammation, and Interventions to Reverse the Cognitive Deficit. Front Integr Neurosci 2022; 16:798995. [PMID: 35422689 PMCID: PMC9002268 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2022.798995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Overweight and obesity are now considered a worldwide pandemic and a growing public health problem with severe economic and social consequences. Adipose tissue is an organ with neuroimmune-endocrine functions, which participates in homeostasis. So, adipocyte hypertrophy and hyperplasia induce a state of chronic inflammation that causes changes in the brain and induce neuroinflammation. Studies with obese animal models and obese patients have shown a relationship between diet and cognitive decline, especially working memory and learning deficiencies. Here we analyze how obesity-related peripheral inflammation can affect central nervous system physiology, generating neuroinflammation. Given that the blood-brain barrier is an interface between the periphery and the central nervous system, its altered physiology in obesity may mediate the consequences on various cognitive processes. Finally, several interventions, and the use of natural compounds and exercise to prevent the adverse effects of obesity in the brain are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Verónica Salas-Venegas
- Posgrado en Biología Experimental, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana - Unidad Iztapalapa, Mexico City, Mexico
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, División de Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud (DCBS), Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Iztapalapa, CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rosa Pamela Flores-Torres
- Posgrado en Biología Experimental, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana - Unidad Iztapalapa, Mexico City, Mexico
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, DCBS, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Iztapalapa, Ciudad de México (CDMX), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Yesica María Rodríguez-Cortés
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Diego Rodríguez-Retana
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ricardo Jair Ramírez-Carreto
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Luis Edgar Concepción-Carrillo
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Laura Josefina Pérez-Flores
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, División de Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud (DCBS), Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Iztapalapa, CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Adriana Alarcón-Aguilar
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, División de Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud (DCBS), Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Iztapalapa, CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Norma Edith López-Díazguerrero
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, División de Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud (DCBS), Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Iztapalapa, CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Beatriz Gómez-González
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, DCBS, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Iztapalapa, Ciudad de México (CDMX), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Anahí Chavarría
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mina Konigsberg
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, División de Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud (DCBS), Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Iztapalapa, CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Mina Konigsberg,
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Varela L, Garcia-Rendueles MER. Oncogenic Pathways in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063223. [PMID: 35328644 PMCID: PMC8952192 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer and neurodegenerative diseases are two of the leading causes of premature death in modern societies. Their incidence continues to increase, and in the near future, it is believed that cancer will kill more than 20 million people per year, and neurodegenerative diseases, due to the aging of the world population, will double their prevalence. The onset and the progression of both diseases are defined by dysregulation of the same molecular signaling pathways. However, whereas in cancer, these alterations lead to cell survival and proliferation, neurodegenerative diseases trigger cell death and apoptosis. The study of the mechanisms underlying these opposite final responses to the same molecular trigger is key to providing a better understanding of the diseases and finding more accurate treatments. Here, we review the ten most common signaling pathways altered in cancer and analyze them in the context of different neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's (AD), Parkinson's (PD), and Huntington's (HD) diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis Varela
- Yale Center for Molecular and Systems Metabolism, Department of Comparative Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, 310 Cedar St. BML 330, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Correspondence: (L.V.); (M.E.R.G.-R.)
| | - Maria E. R. Garcia-Rendueles
- Precision Nutrition and Cancer Program, IMDEA Food Institute, Campus Excelencia Internacional UAM+CSIC, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (L.V.); (M.E.R.G.-R.)
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Vest RT, Chou CC, Zhang H, Haney MS, Li L, Laqtom NN, Chang B, Shuken S, Nguyen A, Yerra L, Yang AC, Green C, Tanga M, Abu-Remaileh M, Bassik MC, Frydman J, Luo J, Wyss-Coray T. Small molecule C381 targets the lysosome to reduce inflammation and ameliorate disease in models of neurodegeneration. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2121609119. [PMID: 35259016 PMCID: PMC8931323 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2121609119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
SignificanceNeurodegenerative diseases are poorly understood and difficult to treat. One common hallmark is lysosomal dysfunction leading to the accumulation of aggregates and other undegradable materials, which cause damage to brain resident cells. Lysosomes are acidic organelles responsible for breaking down biomolecules and recycling their constitutive parts. In this work, we find that the antiinflammatory and neuroprotective compound, discovered via a phenotypic screen, imparts its beneficial effects by targeting the lysosome and restoring its function. This is established using a genome-wide CRISPRi target identification screen and then confirmed using a variety of lysosome-targeted studies. The resulting small molecule from this study represents a potential treatment for neurodegenerative diseases as well as a research tool for the study of lysosomes in disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan T. Vest
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | | | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Michael S. Haney
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
- Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Lulin Li
- Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research, Palo Alto, CA 94304
| | - Nouf N. Laqtom
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
- Institute for Chemistry, Engineering, and Medicine for Human Health, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Betty Chang
- Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research, Palo Alto, CA 94304
| | - Steven Shuken
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Andy Nguyen
- Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research, Palo Alto, CA 94304
| | - Lakshmi Yerra
- Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research, Palo Alto, CA 94304
| | - Andrew C. Yang
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | | | | | - Monther Abu-Remaileh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
- Institute for Chemistry, Engineering, and Medicine for Human Health, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Michael C. Bassik
- Institute for Chemistry, Engineering, and Medicine for Human Health, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Judith Frydman
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
- Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Jian Luo
- Palo Alto Veterans Institute for Research, Palo Alto, CA 94304
| | - Tony Wyss-Coray
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
- Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Pharmacological depletion of microglia leads to a dose-dependent reduction in inflammation and senescence in the aged murine brain. Neuroscience 2022; 488:1-9. [PMID: 35217122 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Chronic macrophage activation was implicated as one of the main culprits for chronical, low-grade inflammation which significantly contributes to development of age-related diseases. Microglia as the brain macrophages have been recently implicated as key players in neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration in the aged brain. Microglial cell functions are indispensable in early development, however, activation or senescence of microglia in aging cells may be detrimental. Depletion of microglia using genetical or pharmacological approaches leads to opposite results regarding effects on brain cognition. In this study we pharmacologically depleted microglia using orally delivered low and high doses of the CSF1R inhibitor PLX5622 and assessed the expression levels of known inflammation markers (TNF-α, IL1-β, IL-6, IL-10), glia markers (Iba-1 and Gfap) and specific senescence marker p16Ink4a in the aged murine brain. Our results indicate that treatment with low and high doses of PLX5622 leads to a dose-dependent depletion of microglial cells with similar levels in young and aged mice. We also show that treatment with low and high PLX5622 differentially affected cytokine levels in young and old brains. By using low doses we could achieve reduction in inflammation circumventing the astrocyte activation. Removal of microglia cells led to decreased expression of the senescence marker p16Ink4a in the aged brain, indicating a relevant contribution of these cells to the expression of this marker and their senescent status in the healthy aging brain. Our results indicate that increased and detrimental brain inflammation in aged murine brain can be impaired by selectively reducing the microglial cell population.
Collapse
|
37
|
Kabel AM, Arab HH, Atef A, Estfanous RS. Omarigliptin/galangin combination mitigates lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroinflammation in rats: Involvement of glucagon-like peptide-1, toll-like receptor-4, apoptosis and Akt/GSK-3β signaling. Life Sci 2022; 295:120396. [PMID: 35157909 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The objectives of this work were to assess the possibility of administration of omarigliptin and/or galangin to combat lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation in rats and to explore the possible mechanisms that might contribute to their actions. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a rat model of LPS-induced neuroinflammation, the changes in the behavioral tests, biochemical parameters, and the histopathological picture were assessed. KEY FINDINGS Administration of either omarigliptin or galangin to LPS-injected rats was able to significantly improve the behavioral changes with restoration of the oxidant/antioxidant balance, decrement of toll-like receptor-4 levels, and amelioration of the neuroinflammation associated with inhibition of apoptosis and restoration of glucagon-like peptide-1 levels in the cerebral tissues. In addition, omarigliptin and/or galangin significantly reduced the levels of phospho-Akt and glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β) and significantly increased the expression of beclin-1 in the cerebral tissues compared versus the group treated with LPS alone. As a result, these changes were positively reflected on the histopathological and the electron microscopic picture of the cerebral tissues. These beneficial effects were maximally evidenced in rats treated with omarigliptin/galangin combination relative to the use of either omarigliptin or galangin alone. SIGNIFICANCE Omarigliptin/galangin combination might be proposed as a promising therapeutic line for mitigation of the pathophysiologic events of LPS-induced neuroinflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M Kabel
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.
| | - Hany H Arab
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aliaa Atef
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Remon S Estfanous
- Anatomy and Embryology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Fields JA, Swinton MK, Montilla-Perez P, Ricciardelli E, Telese F. The Cannabinoid Receptor Agonist, WIN-55212-2, Suppresses the Activation of Proinflammatory Genes Induced by Interleukin 1 Beta in Human Astrocytes. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2022; 7:78-92. [PMID: 33998879 PMCID: PMC8864424 DOI: 10.1089/can.2020.0128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Alterations of astrocyte function play a crucial role in neuroinflammatory diseases due to either the loss of their neuroprotective role or the gain of their toxic inflammatory properties. Accumulating evidence highlights that cannabinoids and cannabinoid receptor agonists, such as WIN55,212-2 (WIN), reduce inflammation in cellular and animal models. Thus, the endocannabinoid system has become an attractive target to attenuate chronic inflammation in neurodegenerative diseases. However, the mechanism of action of WIN in astrocytes remains poorly understood. Objective: We studied the immunosuppressive property of WIN by examining gene expression patterns that were modulated by WIN in reactive astrocytes. Materials and Methods: Transcriptomic analysis by RNA-seq was carried out using primary human astrocyte cultures stimulated by the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin 1 beta (IL1β) in the presence or absence of WIN. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis was conducted on selected transcripts to characterize the dose-response effects of WIN, and to test the effect of selective antagonists of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR). Results: Transcriptomic analysis showed that the IL1β-induced inflammatory response is robustly inhibited by WIN pretreatment. WIN treatment alone also induced substantial gene expression changes. Pathway analysis revealed that the anti-inflammatory properties of WIN were linked to the regulation of kinase pathways and gene targets of neuroprotective transcription factors, including PPAR and SMAD (mothers against decapentaplegic homolog). The inhibitory effect of WIN was dose-dependent, but it was not affected by selective antagonists of CB1 or PPAR. Conclusions: This study suggests that targeting the endocannabinoid system may be a promising strategy to disrupt inflammatory pathways in reactive astrocytes. The anti-inflammatory activity of WIN is independent of CB1, suggesting that alternative receptors mediate the effects of WIN. These results provide mechanistic insights into the anti-inflammatory activity of WIN and highlight that astrocytes are a potential therapeutic target to ameliorate neuroinflammation in the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jerel Adam Fields
- Department of Psychiatry and University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Mary K. Swinton
- Department of Psychiatry and University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | | | - Eugenia Ricciardelli
- Institute of Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Francesca Telese
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA.,*Address correspondence to: Francesca Telese, PhD, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 93093, USA,
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Manjally AV, Tay TL. Attack of the Clones: Microglia in Health and Disease. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:831747. [PMID: 35173585 PMCID: PMC8841846 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.831747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Amritha Vinayak Manjally
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- BrainLinks-BrainTools Centre, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Tuan Leng Tay
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- BrainLinks-BrainTools Centre, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
- Freiburg Institute of Advanced Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Tuan Leng Tay
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Yoo HJ, Kwon MS. Aged Microglia in Neurodegenerative Diseases: Microglia Lifespan and Culture Methods. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 13:766267. [PMID: 35069173 PMCID: PMC8766407 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.766267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia have been recognized as macrophages of the central nervous system (CNS) that are regarded as a culprit of neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, microglia have been considered as a cell that should be suppressed for maintaining a homeostatic CNS environment. However, microglia ontogeny, fate, heterogeneity, and their function in health and disease have been defined better with advances in single-cell and imaging technologies, and how to maintain homeostatic microglial function has become an emerging issue for targeting neurodegenerative diseases. Microglia are long-lived cells of yolk sac origin and have limited repopulating capacity. So, microglial perturbation in their lifespan is associated with not only neurodevelopmental disorders but also neurodegenerative diseases with aging. Considering that microglia are long-lived cells and may lose their functional capacity as they age, we can expect that aged microglia contribute to various neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, understanding microglial development and aging may represent an opportunity for clarifying CNS disease mechanisms and developing novel therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Jung Yoo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Research Institute for Basic Medical Science, CHA University, Cha Bio Complex, Seongnam-si, South Korea
- Research Competency Milestones Program (RECOMP) of School of Medicine, CHA University, Seongnam-si, South Korea
| | - Min-Soo Kwon
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Research Institute for Basic Medical Science, CHA University, Cha Bio Complex, Seongnam-si, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Min-Soo Kwon,
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Orzeł-Gajowik K, Milewski K, Zielińska M. Insight into microRNAs-Mediated Communication between Liver and Brain: A Possible Approach for Understanding Acute Liver Failure? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:224. [PMID: 35008650 PMCID: PMC8745738 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute liver failure (ALF) is a life-threatening consequence of hepatic function rapid loss without preexisting liver disease. ALF may result in a spectrum of neuropsychiatric symptoms that encompasses cognitive impairment, coma, and often death, collectively defined as acute hepatic encephalopathy. Micro RNAs are small non-coding RNAs that modulate gene expression and are extensively verified as biomarker candidates in various diseases. Our systematic literature review based on the last decade's reports involving a total of 852 ALF patients, determined 205 altered circulating miRNAs, of which 25 miRNAs were altered in the blood, regardless of study design and methodology. Selected 25 miRNAs, emerging predominantly from the analyses of samples obtained from acetaminophen overdosed patients, represent the most promising biomarker candidates for a diagnostic panel for symptomatic ALF. We discussed the role of selected miRNAs in the context of tissue-specific origin and its possible regulatory role for molecular pathways involved in blood-brain barrier function. The defined several common pathways for 15 differently altered miRNAs were relevant to cellular community processes, indicating loss of intercellular, structural, and functional components, which may result in blood-brain barrier impairment and brain dysfunction. However, a causational relationship between circulating miRNAs differential expression, and particular clinical features of ALF, has to be demonstrated in a further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Magdalena Zielińska
- Department of Neurotoxicology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Pawińskiego Str., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland; (K.O.-G.); (K.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
MicroRNA-Target Interaction Regulatory Network in Alzheimer's Disease. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11121275. [PMID: 34945753 PMCID: PMC8708198 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11121275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the most common cause of dementia; however, early diagnosis of the disease is challenging. Research suggests that biomarkers found in blood, such as microRNAs (miRNA), may be promising for AD diagnostics. Experimental data on miRNA–target interactions (MTI) associated with AD are scattered across databases and publications, thus making the identification of promising miRNA biomarkers for AD difficult. In response to this, a list of experimentally validated AD-associated MTIs was obtained from miRTarBase. Cytoscape was used to create a visual MTI network. STRING software was used for protein–protein interaction analysis and mirPath was used for pathway enrichment analysis. Several targets regulated by multiple miRNAs were identified, including: BACE1, APP, NCSTN, SP1, SIRT1, and PTEN. The miRNA with the highest numbers of interactions in the network were: miR-9, miR-16, miR-34a, miR-106a, miR-107, miR-125b, miR-146, and miR-181c. The analysis revealed seven subnetworks, representing disease modules which have a potential for further biomarker development. The obtained MTI network is not yet complete, and additional studies are needed for the comprehensive understanding of the AD-associated miRNA targetome.
Collapse
|
43
|
Gupta R, Jha A, Ambasta RK, Kumar P. Regulatory mechanism of cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases in post-mitotic neuronal cell division. Life Sci 2021; 285:120006. [PMID: 34606852 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are the most common life-threatening disease of the central nervous system and it cause the progressive loss of neuronal cells. The exact mechanism of the disease's progression is not clear and thus line of treatment for NDDs is a baffling issue. During the progression of NDDs, oxidative stress and DNA damage play an important regulatory function, and ultimately induces neurodegeneration. Recently, aberrant cell cycle events have been demonstrated in the progression of different NDDs. However, the pertinent role of signaling mechanism, for instance, post-translational modifications, oxidative stress, DNA damage response pathway, JNK/p38 MAPK, MEK/ERK cascade, actively participated in the aberrant cell cycle reentry induced neuronal cell death. Mounting evidence has demonstrated that aberrant cell cycle re-entry is a major contributing factor in the pathogenesis of NDDs rather than a secondary phenomenon. In the brain of AD patients with mild cognitive impairment, post miotic cell division can be seen in the early stage of the disease. However, in the brain of PD patients, response to various neurotoxic signals, the cell cycle re-entry has been observed that causes neuronal apoptosis. On contrary, the contributing factors that leads to the induction of cell cycle events in mature neurons in HD and ALS brain pathology is remain unclear. Various pharmacological drugs have been developed to reduce the pathogenesis of NDDs, but they are still not helpful in eliminating the cause of these NDDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rohan Gupta
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Delhi Technological University (Formerly Delhi College of Engineering), India
| | - Ankita Jha
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Delhi Technological University (Formerly Delhi College of Engineering), India
| | - Rashmi K Ambasta
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Delhi Technological University (Formerly Delhi College of Engineering), India
| | - Pravir Kumar
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Delhi Technological University (Formerly Delhi College of Engineering), India.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
|
45
|
Chronic Rhinosinusitis and Alzheimer's Disease-A Possible Role for the Nasal Microbiome in Causing Neurodegeneration in the Elderly. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011207. [PMID: 34681867 PMCID: PMC8541405 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Among millions of sufferers of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), the challenge is not only constantly coping with CRS-related symptoms, such as congested nose, sinus pain, and headaches, but also various complications, such as attention difficulties and possible depression. These complications suggest that neural activity in the central nervous system may be altered in those patients, leading to unexpected conditions, such as neurodegeneration in elderly patients. Recently, some studies linked the presence of CRS and cognitive impairments that could further develop into Alzheimer’s disease (AD). AD is the leading cause of dementia in the elderly and is characterised by progressive memory loss, cognitive behavioural deficits, and significant personality changes. The microbiome, especially those in the gut, has been recognised as a human organ and plays an important role in the development of various conditions, including AD. However, less attention has been paid to the microbiome in the nasal cavity. Increased nasal inflammatory responses due to CRS may be an initial event that changes local microbiome homeostasis, which may further affect neuronal integrity in the central nervous system resulting in AD. Evidence suggests a potential of β-amyloid deposition starting in olfactory neurons, which is then expanded from the nasal cavity to the central nervous system. In this paper, we reviewed currently available evidence that suggests this potential mechanism to advise the need to investigate the link between these two conditions.
Collapse
|
46
|
Deep post-GWAS analysis identifies potential risk genes and risk variants for Alzheimer's disease, providing new insights into its disease mechanisms. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20511. [PMID: 34654853 PMCID: PMC8519945 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99352-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a genetically complex, multifactorial neurodegenerative disease. It affects more than 45 million people worldwide and currently remains untreatable. Although genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified many AD-associated common variants, only about 25 genes are currently known to affect the risk of developing AD, despite its highly polygenic nature. Moreover, the risk variants underlying GWAS AD-association signals remain unknown. Here, we describe a deep post-GWAS analysis of AD-associated variants, using an integrated computational framework for predicting both disease genes and their risk variants. We identified 342 putative AD risk genes in 203 risk regions spanning 502 AD-associated common variants. 246 AD risk genes have not been identified as AD risk genes by previous GWAS collected in GWAS catalogs, and 115 of 342 AD risk genes are outside the risk regions, likely under the regulation of transcriptional regulatory elements contained therein. Even more significantly, for 109 AD risk genes, we predicted 150 risk variants, of both coding and regulatory (in promoters or enhancers) types, and 85 (57%) of them are supported by functional annotation. In-depth functional analyses showed that AD risk genes were overrepresented in AD-related pathways or GO terms—e.g., the complement and coagulation cascade and phosphorylation and activation of immune response—and their expression was relatively enriched in microglia, endothelia, and pericytes of the human brain. We found nine AD risk genes—e.g., IL1RAP, PMAIP1, LAMTOR4—as predictors for the prognosis of AD survival and genes such as ARL6IP5 with altered network connectivity between AD patients and normal individuals involved in AD progression. Our findings open new strategies for developing therapeutics targeting AD risk genes or risk variants to influence AD pathogenesis.
Collapse
|
47
|
Hampel H, Hardy J, Blennow K, Chen C, Perry G, Kim SH, Villemagne VL, Aisen P, Vendruscolo M, Iwatsubo T, Masters CL, Cho M, Lannfelt L, Cummings JL, Vergallo A. The Amyloid-β Pathway in Alzheimer's Disease. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:5481-5503. [PMID: 34456336 PMCID: PMC8758495 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01249-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 578] [Impact Index Per Article: 192.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Breakthroughs in molecular medicine have positioned the amyloid-β (Aβ) pathway at the center of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathophysiology. While the detailed molecular mechanisms of the pathway and the spatial-temporal dynamics leading to synaptic failure, neurodegeneration, and clinical onset are still under intense investigation, the established biochemical alterations of the Aβ cycle remain the core biological hallmark of AD and are promising targets for the development of disease-modifying therapies. Here, we systematically review and update the vast state-of-the-art literature of Aβ science with evidence from basic research studies to human genetic and multi-modal biomarker investigations, which supports a crucial role of Aβ pathway dyshomeostasis in AD pathophysiological dynamics. We discuss the evidence highlighting a differentiated interaction of distinct Aβ species with other AD-related biological mechanisms, such as tau-mediated, neuroimmune and inflammatory changes, as well as a neurochemical imbalance. Through the lens of the latest development of multimodal in vivo biomarkers of AD, this cross-disciplinary review examines the compelling hypothesis- and data-driven rationale for Aβ-targeting therapeutic strategies in development for the early treatment of AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harald Hampel
- Eisai Inc., Neurology Business Group, Woodcliff Lake, NJ, USA.
| | - John Hardy
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL and Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kaj Blennow
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Christopher Chen
- Memory Aging and Cognition Centre, Departments of Pharmacology and Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - George Perry
- Department of Biology and Neurosciences Institute, University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Seung Hyun Kim
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Cell Therapy Center, Hanyang University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Victor L Villemagne
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul Aisen
- USC Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Michele Vendruscolo
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Takeshi Iwatsubo
- Department of Neuropathology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Colin L Masters
- Laureate Professor of Dementia Research, Florey Institute and The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Min Cho
- Eisai Inc., Neurology Business Group, Woodcliff Lake, NJ, USA
| | - Lars Lannfelt
- Uppsala University, Department of of Public Health/Geriatrics, Uppsala, Sweden
- BioArctic AB, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jeffrey L Cummings
- Chambers-Grundy Center for Transformative Neuroscience, Department of Brain Health, School of Integrated Health Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Andrea Vergallo
- Eisai Inc., Neurology Business Group, Woodcliff Lake, NJ, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Comparative Review of Microglia and Monocytes in CNS Phagocytosis. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102555. [PMID: 34685535 PMCID: PMC8534258 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages maintain tissue homeostasis by phagocytosing and removing unwanted materials such as dead cells and cell debris. Microglia, the resident macrophages of the central nervous system (CNS), are no exception. In addition, a series of recent studies have shown that microglia phagocytose the neuronal synapses that form the basis of neural circuit function. This discovery has spurred many neuroscientists to study microglia. Importantly, in the CNS parenchyma, not only microglia but also blood-derived monocytes, which essentially differentiate into macrophages after infiltration, exert phagocytic ability, making the study of phagocytosis in the CNS even more interesting and complex. In particular, in the diseased brain, the phagocytosis of tissue-damaging substances, such as myelin debris in multiple sclerosis (MS), has been shown to be carried out by both microglia and blood-derived monocytes. However, it remains largely unclear why blood-derived monocytes need to invade the parenchyma, where microglia are already abundant, to assist in phagocytosis. We will also discuss whether this phagocytosis can affect the fate of the phagocytosing cell itself as well as the substance being phagocytosed and the surrounding environment in addition to future research directions. In this review, we will introduce recent studies to answer a question that often arises when studying microglial phagocytosis: under what circumstances and to what extent blood-derived monocytes infiltrate the CNS and contribute to phagocytosis. In addition, the readers will learn how recent studies have experimentally distinguished between microglia and infiltrating monocytes. Finally, we aim to contribute to the progress of phagocytosis research by discussing the effects of phagocytosis on phagocytic cells.
Collapse
|
49
|
Wu X, Peng C, Nelson PT, Cheng Q. Random forest-integrated analysis in AD and LATE brain transcriptome-wide data to identify disease-specific gene expression. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0256648. [PMID: 34492068 PMCID: PMC8423259 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0256648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder that affects thinking, memory, and behavior. Limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy (LATE) is a recently identified common neurodegenerative disease that mimics the clinical symptoms of AD. The development of drugs to prevent or treat these neurodegenerative diseases has been slow, partly because the genes associated with these diseases are incompletely understood. A notable hindrance from data analysis perspective is that, usually, the clinical samples for patients and controls are highly imbalanced, thus rendering it challenging to apply most existing machine learning algorithms to directly analyze such datasets. Meeting this data analysis challenge is critical, as more specific disease-associated gene identification may enable new insights into underlying disease-driving mechanisms and help find biomarkers and, in turn, improve prospects for effective treatment strategies. In order to detect disease-associated genes based on imbalanced transcriptome-wide data, we proposed an integrated multiple random forests (IMRF) algorithm. IMRF is effective in differentiating putative genes associated with subjects having LATE and/or AD from controls based on transcriptome-wide data, thereby enabling effective discrimination between these samples. Various forms of validations, such as cross-domain verification of our method over other datasets, improved and competitive classification performance by using identified genes, effectiveness of testing data with a classifier that is completely independent from decision trees and random forests, and relationships with prior AD and LATE studies on the genes linked to neurodegeneration, all testify to the effectiveness of IMRF in identifying genes with altered expression in LATE and/or AD. We conclude that IMRF, as an effective feature selection algorithm for imbalanced data, is promising to facilitate the development of new gene biomarkers as well as targets for effective strategies of disease prevention and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinxing Wu
- University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Chong Peng
- Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Peter T. Nelson
- University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Qiang Cheng
- University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Kaur D, Behl T, Sehgal A, Singh S, Sharma N, Bungau S. Multifaceted Alzheimer's Disease: Building a Roadmap for Advancement of Novel Therapies. Neurochem Res 2021; 46:2832-2851. [PMID: 34357520 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03415-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most prevailing neurodegenerative disorders of elderly humans associated with cognitive damage. Biochemical, epigenetic, and pathophysiological factors all consider a critical role of extracellular amyloid-beta (Aß) plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) as pathological hallmarks of AD. In an endeavor to describe the intricacy and multifaceted nature of AD, several hypotheses based on the roles of Aß accumulation, tau hyperphosphorylation, impaired cholinergic signaling, neuroinflammation, and autophagy during the initiation and advancement of the disease have been suggested. However, in no way do these theories have the potential of autonomously describing the pathophysiological alterations located in AD. The complex pathological nature of AD has hindered the recognition and authentication of successful biomarkers for the progression of its diagnosis and therapeutic strategies. There has been a significant research effort to design multi-target-directed ligands for the treatment of AD, an approach which is developed by the knowledge that AD is a composite and multifaceted disease linked with several separate but integrated molecular pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dapinder Kaur
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, India
| | - Tapan Behl
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, India.
| | - Aayush Sehgal
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, India
| | - Sukhbir Singh
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, India
| | - Neelam Sharma
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, India
| | - Simona Bungau
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Oradea, Romania
| |
Collapse
|