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Cipriano GL, Mazzon E, Anchesi I. Estrogen Receptors: A New Frontier in Alzheimer's Disease Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9077. [PMID: 39201762 PMCID: PMC11354998 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25169077] [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: 07/22/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a long-term neurodegenerative condition that leads to the deterioration of neurons and synapses in the cerebral cortex, resulting in severe dementia. AD is significantly more prevalent in postmenopausal women, suggesting a neuroprotective role for estrogen. Estrogen is now known to regulate a wide array of physiological functions in the body by interacting with three known estrogen receptors (ERs) and with the β-amyloid precursor protein, a key factor in AD pathogenesis. Recent experimental evidence indicates that new selective ER modulators and phytoestrogens may be promising treatments for AD for their neuroprotective and anti-apoptotic properties. These alternatives may offer fewer side effects compared to traditional hormone therapies, which are associated with risks such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and metabolic dysfunctions. This review sheds light on estrogen-based treatments that may help to partially prevent or control the neurodegenerative processes characteristic of AD, paving the way for further investigation in the development of estrogen-based treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino-Pulejo”, Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy; (G.L.C.); (I.A.)
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2
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Ma R, Chen L, Hu N, Caplan S, Hu G. Cilia and Extracellular Vesicles in Brain Development and Disease. Biol Psychiatry 2024; 95:1020-1029. [PMID: 37956781 PMCID: PMC11087377 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2023.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Primary and motile cilia are thin, hair-like cellular projections from the cell surface involved in movement, sensing, and communication between cells. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small membrane-bound vesicles secreted by cells and contain various proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids that are delivered to and influence the behavior of other cells. Both cilia and EVs are essential for the normal functioning of brain cells, and their malfunction can lead to several neurological diseases. Cilia and EVs can interact with each other in several ways, and this interplay plays a crucial role in facilitating various biological processes, including cell-to-cell communication, tissue homeostasis, and pathogen defense. Cilia and EV crosstalk in the brain is an emerging area of research. Herein, we summarize the detailed molecular mechanisms of cilia and EV interplay and address the ciliary molecules that are involved in signaling and cellular dysfunction in brain development and diseases. Finally, we discuss the potential clinical use of cilia and EVs in brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Ma
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska; Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Liang Chen
- Department of Computer Science, College of Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ningyun Hu
- Millard West High School, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Steve Caplan
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.
| | - Guoku Hu
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.
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3
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Jiao L, Kang H, Geng Y, Liu X, Wang M, Shu K. The role of the nucleus basalis of Meynert in neuromodulation therapy: a systematic review from the perspective of neural network oscillations. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1376764. [PMID: 38650866 PMCID: PMC11033491 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1376764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
As a crucial component of the cerebral cholinergic system and the Papez circuit in the basal forebrain, dysfunction of the nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM) is associated with various neurodegenerative disorders. However, no drugs, including existing cholinesterase inhibitors, have been shown to reverse this dysfunction. Due to advancements in neuromodulation technology, researchers are exploring the use of deep brain stimulation (DBS) therapy targeting the NBM (NBM-DBS) to treat mental and neurological disorders as well as the related mechanisms. Herein, we provided an update on the research progress on cognition-related neural network oscillations and complex anatomical and projective relationships between the NBM and other cognitive structures and circuits. Furthermore, we reviewed previous animal studies of NBM lesions, NBM-DBS models, and clinical case studies to summarize the important functions of the NBM in neuromodulation. In addition to elucidating the mechanism of the NBM neural network, future research should focus on to other types of neurons in the NBM, despite the fact that cholinergic neurons are still the key target for cell type-specific activation by DBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwu Jiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Huicong Kang
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yumei Geng
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xuyang Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Mengying Wang
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Kai Shu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Lazaro-Pena MI, Cornwell AB, Diaz-Balzac CA, Das R, Macoretta N, Thakar J, Samuelson AV. Homeodomain-interacting protein kinase maintains neuronal homeostasis during normal Caenorhabditis elegans aging and systemically regulates longevity from serotonergic and GABAergic neurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.11.523661. [PMID: 36711523 PMCID: PMC9882034 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.11.523661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Aging and the age-associated decline of the proteome is determined in part through neuronal control of evolutionarily conserved transcriptional effectors, which safeguard homeostasis under fluctuating metabolic and stress conditions by regulating an expansive proteostatic network. We have discovered the Caenorhabditis elegans h omeodomain-interacting p rotein k inase (HPK-1) acts as a key transcriptional effector to preserve neuronal integrity, function, and proteostasis during aging. Loss of hpk-1 results in drastic dysregulation in expression of neuronal genes, including genes associated with neuronal aging. During normal aging hpk-1 expression increases throughout the nervous system more broadly than any other kinase. Within the aging nervous system, hpk-1 is co-expressed with key longevity transcription factors, including daf-16 (FOXO), hlh-30 (TFEB), skn-1 (Nrf2), and hif-1 , which suggests hpk-1 expression mitigates natural age-associated physiological decline. Consistently, pan-neuronal overexpression of hpk-1 extends longevity, preserves proteostasis both within and outside of the nervous system, and improves stress resistance. Neuronal HPK-1 improves proteostasis through kinase activity. HPK-1 functions cell non-autonomously within serotonergic and GABAergic neurons to improve proteostasis in distal tissues by specifically regulating distinct components of the proteostatic network. Increased serotonergic HPK-1 enhances the heat shock response and survival to acute stress. In contrast, GABAergic HPK-1 induces basal autophagy and extends longevity. Our work establishes hpk-1 as a key neuronal transcriptional regulator critical for preservation of neuronal function during aging. Further, these data provide novel insight as to how the nervous system partitions acute and chronic adaptive response pathways to delay aging by maintaining organismal homeostasis.
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Wang ZB, Wang ZT, Sun Y, Tan L, Yu JT. The future of stem cell therapies of Alzheimer's disease. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 80:101655. [PMID: 35660003 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101655] [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: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) places a heavy burden on the global economy. There is no effective disease-modifying treatment available at present. Since the advent of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) reprogrammed from human somatic cells, new approaches using iPSC-derived products provided novel insights into AD pathogenesis and drug candidates for the AD treatment. Multiple recent studies using animal models have increased the possibility of reducing pathology and improving cognitive function by cell replacement therapies. In this review, we summarized the advantages, limitations, and future directions of cell replacement therapy, discussed the safety and ethical concerns of this novel therapeutic approach and the possibility of translation to clinical practice.
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Ma R, Kutchy NA, Chen L, Meigs DD, Hu G. Primary cilia and ciliary signaling pathways in aging and age-related brain disorders. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 163:105607. [PMID: 34979259 PMCID: PMC9280856 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2021.105607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain disorders are characterized by the progressive loss of structure and function of the brain as a consequence of progressive degeneration and/or death of nerve cells. Aging is a major risk factor for brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and stroke. Various cellular and molecular events have been shown to play a role in the progress of neurodegenerative diseases. Emerging studies suggest that primary cilia could be a key regulator in brain diseases. The primary cilium is a singular cellular organelle expressed on the surface of many cell types, such as astrocytes and neurons in the mature brain. Primary cilia detect extracellular cues, such as Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) protein, and transduce these signals into cells to regulate various signaling pathways. Abnormalities in ciliary length and frequency (ratio of ciliated cells) have been implicated in various human diseases, including brain disorders. This review summarizes current findings and thoughts on the role of primary cilia and ciliary signaling pathways in aging and age-related brain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Ma
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5880, USA; Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Naseer A Kutchy
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5880, USA; Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, Grenada
| | - Liang Chen
- Department of Computer Science, College of Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, Guangdong 515063, China; Key Laboratory of Intelligent Manufacturing Technology, Ministry of Education, Shantou University, Shantou, Guangdong 515063, China
| | - Douglas D Meigs
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5880, USA
| | - Guoku Hu
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5880, USA.
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7
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Chen YS, Shu K, Kang HC. Deep Brain Stimulation in Alzheimer's Disease: Targeting the Nucleus Basalis of Meynert. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 80:53-70. [PMID: 33492288 DOI: 10.3233/jad-201141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is becoming a prevalent disease in the elderly population. Past decades have witnessed the development of drug therapies with varying targets. However, all drugs with a single molecular target fail to reverse or ameliorate AD progression, which ultimately results in cortical and subcortical network dysregulation. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been proven effective for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, and other neurological diseases. As such, DBS has also been gradually acknowledged as a potential therapy for AD. The current review focuses on DBS of the nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM). As a critical component of the cerebral cholinergic system and the Papez circuit in the basal ganglia, the NBM plays an indispensable role in the subcortical regulation of memory, attention, and arousal state, which makes the NBM a promising target for modulation of neural network dysfunction and AD treatment. We summarized the intricate projection relations and functionality of the NBM, current approaches for stereotactic localization and evaluation of the NBM, and the therapeutic effects of NBM-DBS both in patients and animal models. Furthermore, the current shortcomings of NBM-DBS, such as variations in cortical blood flow, increased temperature in the target area, and stimulation-related neural damage, were presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Si Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Kai Shu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Hui-Cong Kang
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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8
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Coppi E, Cherchi F, Sarchielli E, Fusco I, Guarnieri G, Gallina P, Corradetti R, Pedata F, Vannelli GB, Pugliese AM, Morelli A. Acetylcholine modulates K + and Na + currents in human basal forebrain cholinergic neuroblasts through an autocrine/paracrine mechanism. J Neurochem 2020; 157:1182-1195. [PMID: 33030215 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The Nucleus Basalis of Meynert (NBM) is the main source of cholinergic neurons in the basal forebrain to be crucially involved in cognitive functions and whose degeneration correlates with cognitive decline in major degenerative pathologies as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. However, knowledge concerning NBM neurons derived from human brain is very limited to date. We recently characterized a primary culture of proliferating neuroblasts isolated from the human fetal NBM (hfNBM) as immature cholinergic neurons expressing the machinery to synthetize and release acetylcholine. Here we studied in detail electrophysiological features and cholinergic effects in this cell culture by patch-clamp recordings. Our data demonstrate that atropine-blocked muscarinic receptor activation by acetylcholine or carbachol enhanced IK and reduced INa currents by stimulating Gi -coupled M2 or phospholipase C-coupled M3 receptors, respectively. Inhibition of acetylcholine esterase activity by neostigmine unveiled a spontaneous acetylcholine release from hfNBM neuroblasts that might account for an autocrine/paracrine signaling during human brain development. Present data provide the first description of cholinergic effects in human NBM neurons and point to a role of acetylcholine as an autocrine/paracrine modulator of voltage-dependent channels. Our research could be of relevance in understanding the mechanisms of cholinergic system development and functions in the human brain, either in health or disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Coppi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Firenze, Italy
| | - Federica Cherchi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Firenze, Italy
| | - Erica Sarchielli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Irene Fusco
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Firenze, Italy
| | - Giulia Guarnieri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pasquale Gallina
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Firenze, Italy
| | - Renato Corradetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Firenze, Italy
| | - Felicita Pedata
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Firenze, Italy
| | - Gabriella B Vannelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Pugliese
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Firenze, Italy
| | - Annamaria Morelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Zhao X, Wang S, Sun W. Expression of miR-28-3p in patients with Alzheimer's disease before and after treatment and its clinical value. Exp Ther Med 2020; 20:2218-2226. [PMID: 32765698 PMCID: PMC7401892 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.8920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Expression of miR-28-3p in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) before and after treatment and clinical value of miR-28-3p were determined. There were three groups: 68 AD patients treated with donepezil combined with basic therapy in The People's Hospital of Shouguang collected as an AD group, 70 patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) as an MCI group, and 75 healthy people as a normal group. Serum miR-28-3p was detected by qRT-PCR. The Montreal cognitive assessment scale (MoCA), mini mental state examination scale (MMSE), activities of daily living scale (ADL) and homocysteine (Hcy) were adopted to assess patients before and after treatment. miR-28-3p in normal group was significantly lower than that in other two groups, and miR-28-3p in MCI group was significantly lower than that in AD group (P<0.001). miR-28-3p correlated with the course and severity of patients. miR-28-3p in AD group after treatment was significantly lower than that before treatment (P<0.001). ADL and Hcy of AD patients after treatment were significantly lower than before treatment (P<0.05), and MMSE and MoCA after treatment were significantly higher than before treatment (P<0.05). Before and after treatment, miR-28-3p was significantly positively correlated with ADL score and Hcy level, but negatively correlated with MMSE score and MoCA score. Analysis of the working characteristic curve of the patients indicated that miR-28-3p can be used for diagnosis of AD patients. Donepezil therapy may reduce miR-28-3p level to alleviate the symptoms of AD patients, and miR-28-3p level can be used as an early diagnosis and prognosis evaluation of AD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Zhao
- Department of Neurology, The People's Hospital of Shouguang, Weifang, Shandong 262700, P.R. China
| | - Shan Wang
- Department of Neurology, The People's Hospital of Shouguang, Weifang, Shandong 262700, P.R. China
| | - Wenbao Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Shouguang Hospital of TCM, Weifang, Shandong 262700, P.R. China
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Guarnieri G, Sarchielli E, Comeglio P, Herrera-Puerta E, Piaceri I, Nacmias B, Benelli M, Kelsey G, Maggi M, Gallina P, Vannelli GB, Morelli A. Tumor Necrosis Factor α Influences Phenotypic Plasticity and Promotes Epigenetic Changes in Human Basal Forebrain Cholinergic Neuroblasts. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6128. [PMID: 32854421 PMCID: PMC7504606 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
TNFα is the main proinflammatory cytokine implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders, but it also modulates physiological functions in both the developing and adult brain. In this study, we investigated a potential direct role of TNFα in determining phenotypic changes of a recently established cellular model of human basal forebrain cholinergic neuroblasts isolated from the nucleus basalis of Meynert (hfNBMs). Exposing hfNBMs to TNFα reduced the expression of immature markers, such as nestin and β-tubulin III, and inhibited primary cilium formation. On the contrary, TNFα increased the expression of TNFα receptor TNFR2 and the mature neuron marker MAP2, also promoting neurite elongation. Moreover, TNFα affected nerve growth factor receptor expression. We also found that TNFα induced the expression of DNA-methylation enzymes and, accordingly, downregulated genes involved in neuronal development through epigenetic mechanisms, as demonstrated by methylome analysis. In summary, TNFα showed a dual role on hfNBMs phenotypic plasticity, exerting a negative influence on neurogenesis despite a positive effect on differentiation, through mechanisms that remain to be elucidated. Our results help to clarify the complexity of TNFα effects in human neurons and suggest that manipulation of TNFα signaling could provide a potential therapeutic approach against neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Guarnieri
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.S.); (G.B.V.)
| | - Erica Sarchielli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.S.); (G.B.V.)
| | - Paolo Comeglio
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | | | - Irene Piaceri
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (I.P.); (B.N.)
| | - Benedetta Nacmias
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (I.P.); (B.N.)
| | - Matteo Benelli
- Bioinformatics Unit, Hospital of Prato, Azienda USL Toscana Centro, 50122 Prato, Italy;
| | - Gavin Kelsey
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK;
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1TN, UK
| | - Mario Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Pasquale Gallina
- Neurosurgical Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Gabriella Barbara Vannelli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.S.); (G.B.V.)
| | - Annamaria Morelli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.S.); (G.B.V.)
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11
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Oikari LE, Yu C, Okolicsanyi RK, Avgan N, Peall IW, Griffiths LR, Haupt LM. HSPGs glypican‐1 and glypican‐4 are human neuronal proteins characteristic of different neural phenotypes. J Neurosci Res 2020; 98:1619-1645. [DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lotta E. Oikari
- Genomics Research Centre Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation School of Biomedical Sciences Queensland University of Technology Kelvin Grove QLD Australia
| | - Chieh Yu
- Genomics Research Centre Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation School of Biomedical Sciences Queensland University of Technology Kelvin Grove QLD Australia
| | - Rachel K. Okolicsanyi
- Genomics Research Centre Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation School of Biomedical Sciences Queensland University of Technology Kelvin Grove QLD Australia
| | - Nesli Avgan
- Genomics Research Centre Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation School of Biomedical Sciences Queensland University of Technology Kelvin Grove QLD Australia
| | - Ian W. Peall
- Genomics Research Centre Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation School of Biomedical Sciences Queensland University of Technology Kelvin Grove QLD Australia
| | - Lyn R. Griffiths
- Genomics Research Centre Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation School of Biomedical Sciences Queensland University of Technology Kelvin Grove QLD Australia
| | - Larisa M. Haupt
- Genomics Research Centre Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation School of Biomedical Sciences Queensland University of Technology Kelvin Grove QLD Australia
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12
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Li LX, Yang T, Guo L, Wang DY, Tang CH, Li Q, Yang HM, Zhu J, Zhang LL. Serum tau levels are increased in patients with hyperthyroidism. Neurosci Lett 2020; 729:135003. [PMID: 32335219 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.135003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Hyperthyroidism may cause cognitive decline and increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD), the major form of dementia; however, the underlying mechanism of this relationship is unclear. AD is associated with increased serum levels of tau. In this study, we investigated the relationship between serum thyroid hormones (THs) and tau. Fifty participants diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and fifty euthyroid counterparts were included and received clinical examinations. Serum concentrations of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), free triiodothyronine (FT3) and tau protein were assessed. The total tau protein level was significantly higher in hyperthyroidism participants than in their euthyroid counterparts. The level of circulating total tau had a significant positive association with the serum concentrations of FT3 and FT4. Total tau level was increased in the low TSH group and the serum THs decreased with the increase of age. These findings reveal that peripheral THs are associated with the serum concentration of tau, which may be involved in the pathogenesis of AD, suggesting a potential therapeutic target of AD via hyperthyroidism therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lun-Xi Li
- Department of Neurology, Army Medical University Daping Hospital, China
| | - Tong Yang
- Department of Neurology, Army Medical University Daping Hospital, China
| | - Lu Guo
- Department of Neurology, Army Medical University Daping Hospital, China
| | - Da-Yan Wang
- Department of Neurology, the Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, China
| | - Chun-Hua Tang
- Department of Neurology, Army Medical University Daping Hospital, China
| | - Qiong Li
- Department of Neurology, Army Medical University Daping Hospital, China
| | - Hai-Mei Yang
- Department of Neurology, Army Medical University Daping Hospital, China
| | - Jie Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Army Medical University Daping Hospital, China.
| | - Li-Li Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Army Medical University Daping Hospital, China
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13
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Sarchielli E, Guarnieri G, Idrizaj E, Squecco R, Mello T, Comeglio P, Gallina P, Maggi M, Vannelli GB, Morelli A. The G protein-coupled oestrogen receptor, GPER1, mediates direct anti-inflammatory effects of oestrogens in human cholinergic neurones from the nucleus basalis of Meynert. J Neuroendocrinol 2020; 32:e12837. [PMID: 32077170 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
It has been well established, particularly in animal models, that oestrogens exert neuroprotective effects in brain areas linked to cognitive processes. A key protective role could reside in the capacity of oestrogen to modulate the inflammatory response. However, the direct neuroprotective actions of oestrogens on neurones are complex and remain to be fully clarified. In the present study, we took advantage of a previously characterised primary culture of human cholinergic neurones (hfNBM) from the foetal nucleus basalis of Meynert, which is known to regulate hippocampal and neocortical learning and memory circuits, aiming to investigate the direct effects of oestrogens under inflammatory conditions. Exposure of cells to tumour necrosis factor (TNF)α (10 ng mL-1 ) determined the activation of an inflammatory response, as demonstrated by nuclear factor-kappa B p65 nuclear translocation and cyclooxygenase-2 mRNA expression. These effects were inhibited by treatment with either 17β-oestradiol (E2 ) (10 nmol L-1 ) or G1 (100 nmol L-1 ), the selective agonist of the G protein-coupled oestrogen receptor (GPER1). Interestingly, the GPER1 antagonist G15 abolished the effects of E2 in TNFα-treated cells, whereas the ERα/ERβ inhibitor tamoxifen did not. Electrophysiological measurements in hfNBMs revealed a depolarising effect caused by E2 that was specifically blocked by tamoxifen and not by G15. Conversely, G1 specifically hyperpolarised the cell membrane and also increased both inward and outward currents elicited by a depolarising stimulus, suggesting a modulatory action on hfNBM excitability by GPER1 activation. Interestingly, pretreating cells with TNFα completely blocked the effects of G1 on membrane properties and also significantly reduced GPER1 mRNA expression. In addition, we found a peculiar subcellular localisation of GPER1 to focal adhesion sites that implicates new possible mechanisms of action of GPER1 in the neuronal perception of mechanical stimuli. The results obtained in the present study indicate a modulatory functional role of GPER1 with respect to mediating the oestrogen neuroprotective effect against inflammation in brain cholinergic neurones and, accordingly, may help to identify protective strategies for preventing cognitive impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Sarchielli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Guarnieri
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Eglantina Idrizaj
- Section of Physiological Sciences, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Roberta Squecco
- Section of Physiological Sciences, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Tommaso Mello
- Clinical Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Paolo Comeglio
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pasquale Gallina
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Neurosurgery School of Tuscany, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gabriella B Vannelli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Annamaria Morelli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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14
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Marcos P, Coveñas R. Neuroanatomical relationship between the cholinergic and tachykininergic systems in the adult human brainstem: An immunohistochemical study. J Chem Neuroanat 2019; 102:101701. [PMID: 31585148 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2019.101701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The cholinergic system plays an important role in brain homeostasis and interacts with the neuropeptidergic systems, and the functional relationships between both systems are well known. However, in the brainstem the possible physiological interactions between neurokinins and acetylcholine are unknown, although both substances have been detected in the same brainstem nuclei and have been implicated in similar functions controlled from brainstem regions such as some cranial motor nuclei. The aim of this work is to determine whether these possible physiological interactions might have a neuroanatomical basis by means of the double immunohistochemical detection of neurokinins (NK) and the enzyme choline acetyl-transferase (ChAT) in the human brainstem. No double-labelled structures were detected, although both NK and ChAT were observed in cell bodies and fibers of the same brainstem nuclei. The distribution of immunoreactive fibers is widespread, and NK and ChAT were observed in several motor cranial nerves as well as in the substantia nigra. The results obtained in the present work provide a neuroanatomical basis for possible physiological interactions between NK and ChAT that may be carried out by volume-transmission mechanisms. These interactions might participate in motor regulation or in limbic pathways as well as influence on other neurotransmitter systems such as the dopaminergic system.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Marcos
- Cellular Neuroanatomy and Molecular Chemistry of Central Nervous System, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, CRIB (Regional Centre of Biomedical Research), Avenida de Almansa 14, 02006 Albacete, Spain.
| | - R Coveñas
- Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla y León (INCYL), Laboratory of Neuroanatomy of the Peptidergic Systems, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
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15
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Álvarez-Satta M, Moreno-Cugnon L, Matheu A. Primary cilium and brain aging: role in neural stem cells, neurodegenerative diseases and glioblastoma. Ageing Res Rev 2019; 52:53-63. [PMID: 31004829 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2019.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Brain aging is characterized by a progressive loss of tissue integrity and function as a consequence of impaired homeostasis and regeneration capacities. The primary cilium is a highly conserved organelle that projects from the cell surface in a single copy in virtually all mammalian cell types including neural stem/progenitors cells and neurons. Increasing evidence in the last decade points out that primary cilium could be a relevant mediator of neural stem cell activity, neurogenesis, neuronal maturation and maintenance, and brain tumorigenesis. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about primary cilia roles in these processes. There is currently sufficient background to propose that defective primary cilia contribute to age-related cognitive decline and brain tumor development due to their critical roles in cell cycle control and signaling transduction. This might have potential applications on therapy against age-associated brain diseases.
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16
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Ronowska A, Szutowicz A, Bielarczyk H, Gul-Hinc S, Klimaszewska-Łata J, Dyś A, Zyśk M, Jankowska-Kulawy A. The Regulatory Effects of Acetyl-CoA Distribution in the Healthy and Diseased Brain. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 12:169. [PMID: 30050410 PMCID: PMC6052899 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain neurons, to support their neurotransmitter functions, require a several times higher supply of glucose than non-excitable cells. Pyruvate, the end product of glycolysis, through pyruvate dehydrogenase complex reaction, is a principal source of acetyl-CoA, which is a direct energy substrate in all brain cells. Several neurodegenerative conditions result in the inhibition of pyruvate dehydrogenase and decrease of acetyl-CoA synthesis in mitochondria. This attenuates metabolic flux through TCA in the mitochondria, yielding energy deficits and inhibition of diverse synthetic acetylation reactions in all neuronal sub-compartments. The acetyl-CoA concentrations in neuronal mitochondrial and cytoplasmic compartments are in the range of 10 and 7 μmol/L, respectively. They appear to be from 2 to 20 times lower than acetyl-CoA Km values for carnitine acetyltransferase, acetyl-CoA carboxylase, aspartate acetyltransferase, choline acetyltransferase, sphingosine kinase 1 acetyltransferase, acetyl-CoA hydrolase, and acetyl-CoA acetyltransferase, respectively. Therefore, alterations in acetyl-CoA levels alone may significantly change the rates of metabolic fluxes through multiple acetylation reactions in brain cells in different physiologic and pathologic conditions. Such substrate-dependent alterations in cytoplasmic, endoplasmic reticulum or nuclear acetylations may directly affect ACh synthesis, protein acetylations, and gene expression. Thereby, acetyl-CoA may regulate the functional and adaptative properties of neuronal and non-neuronal brain cells. The excitotoxicity-evoked intracellular zinc excess hits several intracellular targets, yielding the collapse of energy balance and impairment of the functional and structural integrity of postsynaptic cholinergic neurons. Acute disruption of brain energy homeostasis activates slow accumulation of amyloid-β1-42 (Aβ). Extra and intracellular oligomeric deposits of Aβ affect diverse transporting and signaling pathways in neuronal cells. It may combine with multiple neurotoxic signals, aggravating their detrimental effects on neuronal cells. This review presents evidences that changes of intraneuronal levels and compartmentation of acetyl-CoA may contribute significantly to neurotoxic pathomechanisms of different neurodegenerative brain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ronowska
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Andrzej Szutowicz
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Hanna Bielarczyk
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Sylwia Gul-Hinc
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Joanna Klimaszewska-Łata
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Dyś
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Marlena Zyśk
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
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17
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Guarnieri G, Sarchielli E, Vannelli GB, Morelli A. Cell-based therapy in Alzheimer's disease: Can human fetal cholinergic neurons "untangle the skein"? Neural Regen Res 2018; 13:2105-2107. [PMID: 30323137 PMCID: PMC6199943 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.241459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Guarnieri
- Anatomy and Histology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Erica Sarchielli
- Anatomy and Histology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gabriella B Vannelli
- Anatomy and Histology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Annamaria Morelli
- Anatomy and Histology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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