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Moura MM, Monteiro A, Salgado AJ, Silva NA, Monteiro S. Disrupted autonomic pathways in spinal cord injury: Implications for the immune regulation. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 195:106500. [PMID: 38614275 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) disrupts critical autonomic pathways responsible for the regulation of the immune function. Consequently, individuals with SCI often exhibit a spectrum of immune dysfunctions ranging from the development of damaging pro-inflammatory responses to severe immunosuppression. Thus, it is imperative to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the extent and mechanisms through which SCI-induced autonomic dysfunction influences the immune response. In this review, we provide an overview of the anatomical organization and physiology of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), elucidating how SCI impacts its function, with a particular focus on lymphoid organs and immune activity. We highlight recent advances in understanding how intraspinal plasticity that follows SCI may contribute to aberrant autonomic activity in lymphoid organs. Additionally, we discuss how sympathetic mediators released by these neuron terminals affect immune cell function. Finally, we discuss emerging innovative technologies and potential clinical interventions targeting the ANS as a strategy to restore the normal regulation of the immune response in individuals with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria M Moura
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's Associate Lab, PT Government Associated Lab, 4710-057 Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Andreia Monteiro
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's Associate Lab, PT Government Associated Lab, 4710-057 Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - António J Salgado
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's Associate Lab, PT Government Associated Lab, 4710-057 Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Nuno A Silva
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's Associate Lab, PT Government Associated Lab, 4710-057 Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Susana Monteiro
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's Associate Lab, PT Government Associated Lab, 4710-057 Braga, Guimarães, Portugal.
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Clain J, Couret D, Bringart M, Lecadieu A, Meilhac O, Lefebvre d'Hellencourt C, Diotel N. Metabolic disorders exacerbate the formation of glial scar after stroke. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:3009-3029. [PMID: 38576159 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic disorders are risk factors for stroke exacerbating subsequent complications. Rapidly after brain injury, a glial scar forms, preventing excessive inflammation and limiting axonal regeneration. Despite the growing interest in wound healing following brain injury, the formation of a glial scar in the context of metabolic disorders is poorly documented. In this study, we used db/db mice to investigate the impact of metabolic perturbations on brain repair mechanisms, with a focus on glial scarring. First, we confirmed the development of obesity, poor glucose regulation, hyperglycaemia and liver steatosis in these mice. Then, we observed that 3 days after a 30-min middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), db/db mice had larger infarct area compared with their control counterparts. We next investigated reactive gliosis and glial scar formation in db/+ and db/db mice. We demonstrated that astrogliosis and microgliosis were exacerbated 3 days after stroke in db/db mice. Furthermore, we also showed that the synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins (i.e., chondroitin sulphate proteoglycan, collagen IV and tenascin C) was increased in db/db mice. Consequently, we demonstrated for the first time that metabolic disorders impair reactive gliosis post-stroke and increase ECM deposition. Given that the damage size is known to influence glial scar, this study now raises the question of the direct impact of hyperglycaemia/obesity on reactive gliosis and glia scar. It paves the way to promote the development of new therapies targeting glial scar formation to improve functional recovery after stroke in the context of metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Clain
- Université de la Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète Athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Pierre, France
| | - David Couret
- Université de la Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète Athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Pierre, France
- CHU de La Réunion, Saint-Denis, France
| | - Matthieu Bringart
- Université de la Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète Athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Pierre, France
| | - Arnaud Lecadieu
- Université de la Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète Athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Pierre, France
- CHU de La Réunion, Saint-Denis, France
| | - Olivier Meilhac
- Université de la Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète Athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Pierre, France
- CHU de La Réunion, Saint-Denis, France
| | - Christian Lefebvre d'Hellencourt
- Université de la Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète Athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Pierre, France
| | - Nicolas Diotel
- Université de la Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète Athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Pierre, France
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Lee KS, Yoon SH, Hwang I, Ma JH, Yang E, Kim RH, Kim E, Yu JW. Hyperglycemia enhances brain susceptibility to lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroinflammation via astrocyte reprogramming. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:137. [PMID: 38802820 PMCID: PMC11131277 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03136-1] [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: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Hyperglycemia has been shown to modulate the immune response of peripheral immune cells and organs, but the impact of hyperglycemia on neuroinflammation within the brain remains elusive. In the present study, we provide evidences that streptozotocin (STZ)-induced hyperglycemic condition in mice drives a phenotypic switch of brain astrocytes to a proinflammatory state, and increases brain vulnerability to mild peripheral inflammation. In particular, we found that hyperglycemia led to a significant increase in the astrocyte proliferation as determined by flow cytometric and immunohistochemical analyses of mouse brain. The increased astrocyte proliferation by hyperglycemia was reduced by Glut1 inhibitor BAY-876. Transcriptomic analysis of isolated astrocytes from Aldh1l1CreERT2;tdTomato mice revealed that peripheral STZ injection induced astrocyte reprogramming into proliferative, and proinflammatory phenotype. Additionally, STZ-induced hyperglycemic condition significantly enhanced the infiltration of circulating myeloid cells into the brain and the disruption of blood-brain barrier in response to mild lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration. Systemic hyperglycemia did not alter the intensity and sensitivity of peripheral inflammation in mice to LPS challenge, but increased the inflammatory potential of brain microglia. In line with findings from mouse experiments, a high-glucose environment intensified the LPS-triggered production of proinflammatory molecules in primary astrocyte cultures. Furthermore, hyperglycemic mice exhibited a significant impairment in cognitive function after mild LPS administration compared to normoglycemic mice as determined by novel object recognition and Y-maze tasks. Taken together, these results demonstrate that hyperglycemia directly induces astrocyte reprogramming towards a proliferative and proinflammatory phenotype, which potentiates mild LPS-triggered inflammation within brain parenchymal regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung-Seo Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung-Hyun Yoon
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Inhwa Hwang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeong-Hwa Ma
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Euimo Yang
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Rebekah Hyeyoon Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eosu Kim
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Je-Wook Yu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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Yoo J, Shin JC, Lim KB, Kim SH, Kim HS, Kim SH, Baek D, Jo S, Kim J, Baek A, Cho SR. Exposure to an enriched environment modulates the synaptic vesicle cycle in a mouse spinal cord injury model. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11946. [PMID: 38789574 PMCID: PMC11126684 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62112-0] [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: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to motor and sensory impairment below the site of injury, thereby necessitating rehabilitation. An enriched environment (EE) increases social interaction and locomotor activity in a mouse model, similar to human rehabilitation. However, the impact of EE on presynaptic plasticity in gene expression levels remains unclear. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of EE in an SCI mouse model. Mice with spinal cord contusion were divided into two groups: those housed in standard cages (control) and those in EE conditions (EE). Each group was housed separately for either 2- or 8-weeks post-injury, after which RNA sequencing was performed and compared to a sham group (receiving only a dorsal laminectomy). The synaptic vesicle cycle (SVC) pathway and related genes showed significant downregulation after SCI at both time points. Subsequently, we investigated whether exposure to EE for 2- and 8-weeks post-SCI could modulate the SVC pathway and its related genes. Notably, exposure to EE for 8 weeks resulted in a marked reversal effect of SVC-related gene expression, along with stimulation of axon regeneration and mitigation of locomotor activity loss. Thus, prolonged exposure to EE increased presynaptic activity, fostering axon regeneration and functional improvement by modulating the SVC in the SCI mouse model. These findings suggest that EE exposure proves effective in inducing activity-dependent plasticity, offering a promising therapeutic approach akin to rehabilitation training in patients with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeehyun Yoo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Ilsan Paik Hospital, Inje University, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
- Department of Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ji Cheol Shin
- Department and Research Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kil-Byung Lim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Ilsan Paik Hospital, Inje University, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Se Hoon Kim
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyun Seok Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung Hoon Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, South Korea
| | - Dawoon Baek
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, South Korea
| | - Seongmoon Jo
- Department and Research Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jinyoung Kim
- Department and Research Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Graduate Program of Biomedical Engineering, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ahreum Baek
- Department and Research Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, South Korea.
| | - Sung-Rae Cho
- Department and Research Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
- Graduate Program of Biomedical Engineering, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
- Rehabilitation Institute of Neuromuscular Disease, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
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Poongodi R, Yang TH, Huang YH, Yang KD, Chen HZ, Chu TY, Wang TY, Lin HC, Cheng JK. Stem cell exosome-loaded Gelfoam improves locomotor dysfunction and neuropathic pain in a rat model of spinal cord injury. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:143. [PMID: 38764049 PMCID: PMC11103960 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03758-5] [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: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating illness in humans that causes permanent loss of movement or sensation. To treat SCI, exosomes, with their unique benefits, can circumvent limitations through direct stem cell transplantation. Therefore, we utilized Gelfoam encapsulated with exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HucMSC-EX) in a rat SCI model. METHODS SCI model was established through hemisection surgery in T9 spinal cord of female Sprague-Dawley rats. Exosome-loaded Gelfoam was implanted into the lesion site. An in vivo uptake assay using labeled exosomes was conducted on day 3 post-implantation. Locomotor functions and gait analyses were assessed using Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor rating scale and DigiGait Imaging System from weeks 1 to 8. Nociceptive responses were evaluated through von Frey filament and noxious radiant heat tests. The therapeutic effects and potential mechanisms were analyzed using Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining at week 8 post-SCI. RESULTS For the in vivo exosome uptake assay, we observed the uptake of labeled exosomes by NeuN+, Iba1+, GFAP+, and OLIG2+ cells around the injured area. Exosome treatment consistently increased the BBB score from 1 to 8 weeks compared with the Gelfoam-saline and SCI control groups. Additionally, exosome treatment significantly improved gait abnormalities including right-to-left hind paw contact area ratio, stance/stride, stride length, stride frequency, and swing duration, validating motor function recovery. Immunostaining and Western blotting revealed high expression of NF200, MBP, GAP43, synaptophysin, and PSD95 in exosome treatment group, indicating the promotion of nerve regeneration, remyelination, and synapse formation. Interestingly, exosome treatment reduced SCI-induced upregulation of GFAP and CSPG. Furthermore, levels of Bax, p75NTR, Iba1, and iNOS were reduced around the injured area, suggesting anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. Moreover, exosome treatment alleviated SCI-induced pain behaviors and reduced pain-associated proteins (BDNF, TRPV1, and Cav3.2). Exosomal miRNA analysis revealed several promising therapeutic miRNAs. The cell culture study also confirmed the neurotrophic effect of HucMSCs-EX. CONCLUSION Implantation of HucMSCs-EX-encapsulated Gelfoam improves SCI-induced motor dysfunction and neuropathic pain, possibly through its capabilities in nerve regeneration, remyelination, anti-inflammation, and anti-apoptosis. Overall, exosomes could serve as a promising therapeutic alternative for SCI treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raju Poongodi
- Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
| | - Tao-Hsiang Yang
- Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Hsien Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City, 25245, Taiwan
| | - Kuender D Yang
- Institute of Long-Term Care, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City, 25245, Taiwan.
- Department of Pediatrics, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan.
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, 11221, Taiwan.
| | - Hong-Zhao Chen
- Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
| | - Tsuei-Yu Chu
- Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
| | - Tao-Yeuan Wang
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City, 25245, Taiwan
- Department of Pathology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Chieh Lin
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, 300093, Taiwan
- Center for Intelligent Drug Systems and Smart Bio-Devices (IDS 2 B), National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, 30068, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Kun Cheng
- Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan.
- Department of Anesthesiology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 10449, Taiwan.
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City, 25245, Taiwan.
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Galindo AN, Frey Rubio DA, Hettiaratchi MH. Biomaterial strategies for regulating the neuroinflammatory response. MATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 5:4025-4054. [PMID: 38774837 PMCID: PMC11103561 DOI: 10.1039/d3ma00736g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
Injury and disease in the central nervous system (CNS) can result in a dysregulated inflammatory environment that inhibits the repair of functional tissue. Biomaterials present a promising approach to tackle this complex inhibitory environment and modulate the mechanisms involved in neuroinflammation to halt the progression of secondary injury and promote the repair of functional tissue. In this review, we will cover recent advances in biomaterial strategies, including nanoparticles, hydrogels, implantable scaffolds, and neural probe coatings, that have been used to modulate the innate immune response to injury and disease within the CNS. The stages of inflammation following CNS injury and the main inflammatory contributors involved in common neurodegenerative diseases will be discussed, as understanding the inflammatory response to injury and disease is critical for identifying therapeutic targets and designing effective biomaterial-based treatment strategies. Biomaterials and novel composites will then be discussed with an emphasis on strategies that deliver immunomodulatory agents or utilize cell-material interactions to modulate inflammation and promote functional tissue repair. We will explore the application of these biomaterial-based strategies in the context of nanoparticle- and hydrogel-mediated delivery of small molecule drugs and therapeutic proteins to inflamed nervous tissue, implantation of hydrogels and scaffolds to modulate immune cell behavior and guide axon elongation, and neural probe coatings to mitigate glial scarring and enhance signaling at the tissue-device interface. Finally, we will present a future outlook on the growing role of biomaterial-based strategies for immunomodulation in regenerative medicine and neuroengineering applications in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alycia N Galindo
- Phil and Penny Knight Campus for Accelerating Scientific Impact, University of Oregon Eugene OR USA
| | - David A Frey Rubio
- Phil and Penny Knight Campus for Accelerating Scientific Impact, University of Oregon Eugene OR USA
| | - Marian H Hettiaratchi
- Phil and Penny Knight Campus for Accelerating Scientific Impact, University of Oregon Eugene OR USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oregon Eugene OR USA
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Yao L, Sai HV, Shippy T, Li B. Cellular and Transcriptional Response of Human Astrocytes to Hybrid Protein Materials. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:2887-2898. [PMID: 38632900 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c01266] [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] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Collagen is a major component of the tissue matrix, and soybean can regulate the tissue immune response. Both materials have been used to fabricate biomaterials for tissue repair. In this study, adult and fetal human astrocytes were grown in a soy protein isolate (SPI)-collagen hybrid gel or on the surface of a cross-linked SPI-collagen membrane. Hybrid materials reduced the cell proliferation rate compared to materials generated by collagen alone. However, the hybrid materials did not significantly change the cell motility compared to the control collagen material. RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis showed downregulated genes in the cell cycle pathway, including CCNA2, CCNB1, CCNB2, CCND1, CCND2, and CDK1, which may explain lower cell proliferation in the hybrid material. This study also revealed the downregulation of genes encoding extracellular matrix (ECM) components, including HSPG2, LUM, SDC2, COL4A1, COL4A5, COL4A6, and FN1, as well as genes encoding chemokines, including CCL2, CXCL1, CXCL2, CX3CL1, CXCL3, and LIF, for adult human astrocytes grown on the hybrid membrane compared with those grown on the control collagen membrane. The study explored the cellular and transcriptional responses of human astrocytes to the hybrid material and indicated a potential beneficial function of the material in the application of neural repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Yao
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, 1845 Fairmount Street, Wichita, Kansas 67260, United States
| | - Haneesha Vishwa Sai
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, 1845 Fairmount Street, Wichita, Kansas 67260, United States
| | - Teresa Shippy
- KSU Bioinformatics Center, Division of Biology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas 66506, United States
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Wichita State University, 1845 Fairmount Street, Wichita, Kansas 67260, United States
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Overgaard Wichmann T, Hedegaard Højsager M, Hasager Damkier H. Water channels in the brain and spinal cord-overview of the role of aquaporins in traumatic brain injury and traumatic spinal cord injury. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1414662. [PMID: 38818518 PMCID: PMC11137310 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1414662] [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: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Knowledge about the mechanisms underlying the fluid flow in the brain and spinal cord is essential for discovering the mechanisms implicated in the pathophysiology of central nervous system diseases. During recent years, research has highlighted the complexity of the fluid flow movement in the brain through a glymphatic system and a lymphatic network. Less is known about these pathways in the spinal cord. An important aspect of fluid flow movement through the glymphatic pathway is the role of water channels, especially aquaporin 1 and 4. This review provides an overview of the role of these aquaporins in brain and spinal cord, and give a short introduction to the fluid flow in brain and spinal cord during in the healthy brain and spinal cord as well as during traumatic brain and spinal cord injury. Finally, this review gives an overview of the current knowledge about the role of aquaporins in traumatic brain and spinal cord injury, highlighting some of the complexities and knowledge gaps in the field.
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Liu Z, Lai J, Kong D, Zhao Y, Zhao J, Dai J, Zhang M. Advances in electroactive bioscaffolds for repairing spinal cord injury. Biomed Mater 2024; 19:032005. [PMID: 38636508 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/ad4079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating neurological disorder, leading to loss of motor or somatosensory function, which is the most challenging worldwide medical problem. Re-establishment of intact neural circuits is the basis of spinal cord regeneration. Considering the crucial role of electrical signals in the nervous system, electroactive bioscaffolds have been widely developed for SCI repair. They can produce conductive pathways and a pro-regenerative microenvironment at the lesion site similar to that of the natural spinal cord, leading to neuronal regeneration and axonal growth, and functionally reactivating the damaged neural circuits. In this review, we first demonstrate the pathophysiological characteristics induced by SCI. Then, the crucial role of electrical signals in SCI repair is introduced. Based on a comprehensive analysis of these characteristics, recent advances in the electroactive bioscaffolds for SCI repair are summarized, focusing on both the conductive bioscaffolds and piezoelectric bioscaffolds, used independently or in combination with external electronic stimulation. Finally, thoughts on challenges and opportunities that may shape the future of bioscaffolds in SCI repair are concluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeqi Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiahui Lai
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, People's Republic of China
| | - Dexin Kong
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, People's Republic of China
| | - Yannan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiakang Zhao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianwu Dai
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingming Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, People's Republic of China
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Osorio-Londoño D, Heras-Romero Y, Tovar-y-Romo LB, Olayo-González R, Morales-Guadarrama A. Improved Recovery of Complete Spinal Cord Transection by a Plasma-Modified Fibrillar Scaffold. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1133. [PMID: 38675052 PMCID: PMC11054293 DOI: 10.3390/polym16081133] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Complete spinal cord injury causes an irreversible disruption in the central nervous system, leading to motor, sensory, and autonomic function loss, and a secondary injury that constitutes a physical barrier preventing tissue repair. Tissue engineering scaffolds are presented as a permissive platform for cell migration and the reconnection of spared tissue. Iodine-doped plasma pyrrole polymer (pPPy-I), a neuroprotective material, was applied to polylactic acid (PLA) fibers and implanted in a rat complete spinal cord transection injury model to evaluate whether the resulting composite implants provided structural and functional recovery, using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, diffusion tensor imaging and tractography, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, locomotion analysis, histology, and immunofluorescence. In vivo, MR studies evidenced a tissue response to the implant, demonstrating that the fibrillar composite scaffold moderated the structural effects of secondary damage by providing mechanical stability to the lesion core, tissue reconstruction, and significant motor recovery. Histologic analyses demonstrated that the composite scaffold provided a permissive environment for cell attachment and neural tissue guidance over the fibers, reducing cyst formation. These results supply evidence that pPPy-I enhanced the properties of PLA fibrillar scaffolds as a promising treatment for spinal cord injury recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Osorio-Londoño
- Electrical Engineering Department, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Mexico City 09340, Mexico;
| | - Yessica Heras-Romero
- Experimental Analysis of Behavior Department, Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Luis B. Tovar-y-Romo
- Department of Molecular Neuropathology, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | | | - Axayácatl Morales-Guadarrama
- Medical Imaging and Instrumentation Research National Center, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Mexico City 09340, Mexico
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11
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Balint V, Peric M, Dacic S, Stanisavljevic Ninkovic D, Marjanovic J, Popovic J, Stevanovic M, Lazic A. The Role of SOX2 and SOX9 Transcription Factors in the Reactivation-Related Functional Properties of NT2/D1-Derived Astrocytes. Biomedicines 2024; 12:796. [PMID: 38672150 PMCID: PMC11048103 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12040796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are the main homeostatic cells in the central nervous system, with the unique ability to transform from quiescent into a reactive state in response to pathological conditions by reacquiring some precursor properties. This process is known as reactive astrogliosis, a compensatory response that mediates tissue damage and recovery. Although it is well known that SOX transcription factors drive the expression of phenotype-specific genetic programs during neurodevelopment, their roles in mature astrocytes have not been studied extensively. We focused on the transcription factors SOX2 and SOX9, shown to be re-expressed in reactive astrocytes, in order to study the reactivation-related functional properties of astrocytes mediated by those proteins. We performed an initial screening of SOX2 and SOX9 expression after sensorimotor cortex ablation injury in rats and conducted gain-of-function studies in vitro using astrocytes derived from the human NT2/D1 cell line. Our results revealed the direct involvement of SOX2 in the reacquisition of proliferation in mature NT2/D1-derived astrocytes, while SOX9 overexpression increased migratory potential and glutamate uptake in these cells. Our results imply that modulation of SOX gene expression may change the functional properties of astrocytes, which holds promise for the discovery of potential therapeutic targets in the development of novel strategies for tissue regeneration and recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanda Balint
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (M.P.); (D.S.N.); (J.M.); (J.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Mina Peric
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (M.P.); (D.S.N.); (J.M.); (J.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Sanja Dacic
- Institute of Physiology and Biochemistry “Ivan Djaja”, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, 11158 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Danijela Stanisavljevic Ninkovic
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (M.P.); (D.S.N.); (J.M.); (J.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Jelena Marjanovic
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (M.P.); (D.S.N.); (J.M.); (J.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Jelena Popovic
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (M.P.); (D.S.N.); (J.M.); (J.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Milena Stevanovic
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (M.P.); (D.S.N.); (J.M.); (J.P.); (M.S.)
- Institute of Physiology and Biochemistry “Ivan Djaja”, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, 11158 Belgrade, Serbia;
- Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Kneza Mihaila 35, 11001 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Andrijana Lazic
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (M.P.); (D.S.N.); (J.M.); (J.P.); (M.S.)
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12
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Liu J, Xin X, Sun J, Fan Y, Zhou X, Gong W, Yang M, Li Z, Wang Y, Yang Y, Gao C. Dual-targeting AAV9P1-mediated neuronal reprogramming in a mouse model of traumatic brain injury. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:629-635. [PMID: 37721294 PMCID: PMC10581548 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.380907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury results in neuronal loss and glial scar formation. Replenishing neurons and eliminating the consequences of glial scar formation are essential for treating traumatic brain injury. Neuronal reprogramming is a promising strategy to convert glial scars to neural tissue. However, previous studies have reported inconsistent results. In this study, an AAV9P1 vector incorporating an astrocyte-targeting P1 peptide and glial fibrillary acidic protein promoter was used to achieve dual-targeting of astrocytes and the glial scar while minimizing off-target effects. The results demonstrate that AAV9P1 provides high selectivity of astrocytes and reactive astrocytes. Moreover, neuronal reprogramming was induced by downregulating the polypyrimidine tract-binding protein 1 gene via systemic administration of AAV9P1 in a mouse model of traumatic brain injury. In summary, this approach provides an improved gene delivery vehicle to study neuronal programming and evidence of its applications for traumatic brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingzhou Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Xin
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Jiejie Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Yueyue Fan
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Medical College, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Meiyan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiping Li
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Yuli Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
| | - Chunsheng Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, China
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13
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Grau JW, Hudson KE, Johnston DT, Partipilo SR. Updating perspectives on spinal cord function: motor coordination, timing, relational processing, and memory below the brain. Front Syst Neurosci 2024; 18:1184597. [PMID: 38444825 PMCID: PMC10912355 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2024.1184597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Those studying neural systems within the brain have historically assumed that lower-level processes in the spinal cord act in a mechanical manner, to relay afferent signals and execute motor commands. From this view, abstracting temporal and environmental relations is the province of the brain. Here we review work conducted over the last 50 years that challenges this perspective, demonstrating that mechanisms within the spinal cord can organize coordinated behavior (stepping), induce a lasting change in how pain (nociceptive) signals are processed, abstract stimulus-stimulus (Pavlovian) and response-outcome (instrumental) relations, and infer whether stimuli occur in a random or regular manner. The mechanisms that underlie these processes depend upon signal pathways (e.g., NMDA receptor mediated plasticity) analogous to those implicated in brain-dependent learning and memory. New data show that spinal cord injury (SCI) can enable plasticity within the spinal cord by reducing the inhibitory effect of GABA. It is suggested that the signals relayed to the brain may contain information about environmental relations and that spinal cord systems can coordinate action in response to descending signals from the brain. We further suggest that the study of stimulus processing, learning, memory, and cognitive-like processing in the spinal cord can inform our views of brain function, providing an attractive model system. Most importantly, the work has revealed new avenues of treatment for those that have suffered a SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- James W. Grau
- Lab of Dr. James Grau, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Cellular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
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14
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Peterson IL, Thompson AD, Scholpa NE, Largent-Milnes T, Schnellmann RG. Isolation and monoculture of functional primary astrocytes from the adult mouse spinal cord. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1367473. [PMID: 38435055 PMCID: PMC10906264 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1367473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are a widely heterogenic cell population that play major roles in central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis and neurotransmission, as well as in various neuropathologies, including spinal cord injury (SCI), traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Spinal cord astrocytes have distinct differences from those in the brain and accurate modeling of disease states is necessary for understanding disease progression and developing therapeutic interventions. Several limitations to modeling spinal cord astrocytes in vitro exist, including lack of commercially available adult-derived cells, lack of purchasable astrocytes with different genotypes, as well as time-consuming and costly in-house primary cell isolations that often result in low yield due to small tissue volume. To address these issues, we developed an efficient adult mouse spinal cord astrocyte isolation method that utilizes enzymatic digestion, debris filtration, and multiple ACSA-2 magnetic microbead purification cycles to achieve an astrocyte monoculture purity of ≅93-98%, based on all markers assessed. Importantly, the isolated cells contain active mitochondria and express key astrocyte markers including ACSA-1, ACSA-2, EAAT2, and GFAP. Furthermore, this isolation method can be applied to the spinal cord of male and female mice, mice subjected to SCI, and genetically modified mice. We present a primary adult mouse spinal cord astrocyte isolation protocol focused on purity, viability, and length of isolation that can be applied to a multitude of models and aid in targeted research on spinal-cord related CNS processes and pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid L. Peterson
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Austin D. Thompson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Southern Arizona VA Health Care System, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Southwest Environmental Health Science Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Natalie E. Scholpa
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Southern Arizona VA Health Care System, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Tally Largent-Milnes
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Rick G. Schnellmann
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Southern Arizona VA Health Care System, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Southwest Environmental Health Science Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Center for Innovation in Brain Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
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15
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Czyżewski W, Mazurek M, Sakwa L, Szymoniuk M, Pham J, Pasierb B, Litak J, Czyżewska E, Turek M, Piotrowski B, Torres K, Rola R. Astroglial Cells: Emerging Therapeutic Targets in the Management of Traumatic Brain Injury. Cells 2024; 13:148. [PMID: 38247839 PMCID: PMC10813911 DOI: 10.3390/cells13020148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) represents a significant health concern, necessitating advanced therapeutic interventions. This detailed review explores the critical roles of astrocytes, key cellular constituents of the central nervous system (CNS), in both the pathophysiology and possible rehabilitation of TBI. Following injury, astrocytes exhibit reactive transformations, differentiating into pro-inflammatory (A1) and neuroprotective (A2) phenotypes. This paper elucidates the interactions of astrocytes with neurons, their role in neuroinflammation, and the potential for their therapeutic exploitation. Emphasized strategies encompass the utilization of endocannabinoid and calcium signaling pathways, hormone-based treatments like 17β-estradiol, biological therapies employing anti-HBGB1 monoclonal antibodies, gene therapy targeting Connexin 43, and the innovative technique of astrocyte transplantation as a means to repair damaged neural tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech Czyżewski
- Department of Didactics and Medical Simulation, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland;
- Department of Neurosurgery and Pediatric Neurosurgery, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland; (M.M.); (R.R.)
| | - Marek Mazurek
- Department of Neurosurgery and Pediatric Neurosurgery, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland; (M.M.); (R.R.)
| | - Leon Sakwa
- Student Scientific Society, Kazimierz Pulaski University of Radom, 26-600 Radom, Poland;
| | - Michał Szymoniuk
- Student Scientific Association, Department of Neurosurgery and Pediatric Neurosurgery, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Jennifer Pham
- Student Scientific Society, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland; (J.P.); (M.T.)
| | - Barbara Pasierb
- Department of Dermatology, Radom Specialist Hospital, 26-600 Radom, Poland;
| | - Jakub Litak
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Ewa Czyżewska
- Department of Otolaryngology, Mazovian Specialist Hospital, 26-617 Radom, Poland;
| | - Michał Turek
- Student Scientific Society, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland; (J.P.); (M.T.)
| | - Bartłomiej Piotrowski
- Institute of Automatic Control and Robotics, Warsaw University of Technology, 00-661 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Kamil Torres
- Department of Didactics and Medical Simulation, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Radosław Rola
- Department of Neurosurgery and Pediatric Neurosurgery, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland; (M.M.); (R.R.)
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16
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Qin B, Hu XM, Huang YX, Yang RH, Xiong K. A New Paradigm in Spinal Cord Injury Therapy: from Cell-free Treatment to Engineering Modifications. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS DRUG TARGETS 2024; 23:656-673. [PMID: 37076458 DOI: 10.2174/1871527322666230418090857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is an intractable and poorly prognostic neurological disease, and current treatments are still unable to cure it completely and avoid sequelae. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), as important carriers of intercellular communication and pharmacological effects, are considered to be the most promising candidates for SCI therapy because of their low toxicity and immunogenicity, their ability to encapsulate endogenous bioactive molecules (e.g., proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids), and their ability to cross the blood-brain/cerebrospinal barriers. However, poor targeting, low retention rate, and limited therapeutic efficacy of natural EVs have bottlenecked EVs-based SCI therapy. A new paradigm for SCI treatment will be provided by engineering modified EVs. Furthermore, our limited understanding of the role of EVs in SCI pathology hinders the rational design of novel EVbased therapeutic approaches. In this study, we review the pathophysiology after SCI, especially the multicellular EVs-mediated crosstalk; briefly describe the shift from cellular to cell-free therapies for SCI treatment; discuss and analyze the issues related to the route and dose of EVs administration; summarize and present the common strategies for EVs drug loading in the treatment of SCI and point out the shortcomings of these drug loading methods; finally, we analyze and highlight the feasibility and advantages of bio-scaffold-encapsulated EVs for SCI treatment, providing scalable insights into cell-free therapy for SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Qin
- Hubei Key Laboratory for Kidney Disease Pathogenesis and Intervention, Hubei Polytechnic University School of Medicine, Huangshi, 435003, China
| | - Xi-Min Hu
- Clinical Medicine Eight-year Program, 02 Class, 17 Grade, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Yan-Xia Huang
- Health Management Center, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Rong-Hua Yang
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510180, China
| | - Kun Xiong
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Changsha, 410008, China
- Key Laboratory of Emergency and Trauma, Ministry of Education, College of Emergency and Trauma, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, 571199, China
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17
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DiSabato DJ, Marion CM, Mifflin KA, Alfredo AN, Rodgers KA, Kigerl KA, Popovich PG, McTigue DM. System failure: Systemic inflammation following spinal cord injury. Eur J Immunol 2024; 54:e2250274. [PMID: 37822141 PMCID: PMC10919103 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202250274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) affects hundreds of thousands of people in the United States, and while some effects of the injury are broadly recognized (deficits to locomotion, fine motor control, and quality of life), the systemic consequences of SCI are less well-known. The spinal cord regulates systemic immunological and visceral functions; this control is often disrupted by the injury, resulting in viscera including the gut, spleen, liver, bone marrow, and kidneys experiencing local tissue inflammation and physiological dysfunction. The extent of pathology depends on the injury level, severity, and time post-injury. In this review, we describe immunological and metabolic consequences of SCI across several organs. Since infection and metabolic disorders are primary reasons for reduced lifespan after SCI, it is imperative that research continues to focus on these deleterious aspects of SCI to improve life span and quality of life for individuals with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damon J. DiSabato
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Belford Center for Spinal Cord Injury, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Christina M. Marion
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Belford Center for Spinal Cord Injury, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Katherine A. Mifflin
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Belford Center for Spinal Cord Injury, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Anthony N. Alfredo
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Kyleigh A. Rodgers
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Kristina A. Kigerl
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Belford Center for Spinal Cord Injury, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Phillip G. Popovich
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Belford Center for Spinal Cord Injury, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Dana M. McTigue
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Belford Center for Spinal Cord Injury, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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18
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Zhao Q, Jiang C, Zhao L, Dai X, Yi S. Unleashing Axonal Regeneration Capacities: Neuronal and Non-neuronal Changes After Injuries to Dorsal Root Ganglion Neuron Central and Peripheral Axonal Branches. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:423-433. [PMID: 37620687 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03590-7] [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: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Peripheral nerves obtain remarkable regenerative capacity while central nerves can hardly regenerate following nerve injury. Sensory neurons in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) are widely used to decipher the dissimilarity between central and peripheral axonal regeneration as axons of DRG neurons bifurcate into the regeneration-incompetent central projections and the regeneration-competent peripheral projections. A conditioning peripheral branch injury facilitates central axonal regeneration and enables the growth and elongation of central axons. Peripheral axonal injury stimulates neuronal calcium influx, alters the start-point chromatin states, increases chromatin accessibility, upregulates the expressions of regeneration-promoting genes and the synthesis of proteins, and supports axonal regeneration. Following central axonal injury, the responses of DRG neurons are modest, resulting in poor intrinsic growth ability. Some non-neuronal cells in DRGs, for instance satellite glial cells, also exhibit diminished injury responses to central axon injury as compared with peripheral axon injury. Moreover, DRG central and peripheral axonal branches are respectively surrounded by inhibitory glial scars generated by central glial cells and a permissive microenvironment generated by Schwann cells and macrophages. The aim of this review is to look at changes of DRG neurons and non-neuronal cells after peripheral and central axon injuries and summarize the contributing roles of both neuronal intrinsic regenerative capacities and surrounding microenvironments in axonal regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chunyi Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Pathology, Nantong University Affiliated Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiu Dai
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Sheng Yi
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China.
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19
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Klinkovskij A, Shepelev M, Isaakyan Y, Aniskin D, Ulasov I. Advances of Genome Editing with CRISPR/Cas9 in Neurodegeneration: The Right Path towards Therapy. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3333. [PMID: 38137554 PMCID: PMC10741756 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The rate of neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) is rising rapidly as the world's population ages. Conditions such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and dementia are becoming more prevalent and are now the fourth leading cause of death, following heart disease, cancer, and stroke. Although modern diagnostic techniques for detecting NDDs are varied, scientists are continuously seeking new and improved methods to enable early and precise detection. In addition to that, the present treatment options are limited to symptomatic therapy, which is effective in reducing the progression of neurodegeneration but lacks the ability to target the root cause-progressive loss of neuronal functioning. As a result, medical researchers continue to explore new treatments for these conditions. Here, we present a comprehensive summary of the key features of NDDs and an overview of the underlying mechanisms of neuroimmune dysfunction. Additionally, we dive into the cutting-edge treatment options that gene therapy provides in the quest to treat these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandr Klinkovskij
- Group of Experimental Biotherapy and Diagnostics, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, World-Class Research Centre “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (A.K.); (D.A.)
| | - Mikhail Shepelev
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilova Str., Moscow 119334, Russia
| | - Yuri Isaakyan
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 8 Trubetskaya Str., Moscow 119991, Russia;
| | - Denis Aniskin
- Group of Experimental Biotherapy and Diagnostics, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, World-Class Research Centre “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (A.K.); (D.A.)
| | - Ilya Ulasov
- Group of Experimental Biotherapy and Diagnostics, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, World-Class Research Centre “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (A.K.); (D.A.)
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20
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González-Orozco JC, Escobedo-Avila I, Velasco I. Transcriptome Profiling after Early Spinal Cord Injury in the Axolotl and Its Comparison with Rodent Animal Models through RNA-Seq Data Analysis. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:2189. [PMID: 38137011 PMCID: PMC10742908 DOI: 10.3390/genes14122189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is a disabling condition that affects millions of people around the world. Currently, no clinical treatment can restore spinal cord function. Comparison of molecular responses in regenerating to non-regenerating vertebrates can shed light on neural restoration. The axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) is an amphibian that regenerates regions of the brain or spinal cord after damage. METHODS In this study, we compared the transcriptomes after SCI at acute (1-2 days after SCI) and sub-acute (6-7 days post-SCI) periods through the analysis of RNA-seq public datasets from axolotl and non-regenerating rodents. RESULTS Genes related to wound healing and immune responses were upregulated in axolotls, rats, and mice after SCI; however, the immune-related processes were more prevalent in rodents. In the acute phase of SCI in the axolotl, the molecular pathways and genes associated with early development were upregulated, while processes related to neuronal function were downregulated. Importantly, the downregulation of processes related to sensorial and motor functions was observed only in rodents. This analysis also revealed that genes related to pluripotency, cytoskeleton rearrangement, and transposable elements (e.g., Sox2, Krt5, and LOC100130764) were among the most upregulated in the axolotl. Finally, gene regulatory networks in axolotls revealed the early activation of genes related to neurogenesis, including Atf3/4 and Foxa2. CONCLUSIONS Immune-related processes are upregulated shortly after SCI in axolotls and rodents; however, a strong immune response is more noticeable in rodents. Genes related to early development and neurogenesis are upregulated beginning in the acute stage of SCI in axolotls, while the loss of motor and sensory functions is detected only in rodents during the sub-acute period of SCI. The approach employed in this study might be useful for designing and establishing regenerative therapies after SCI in mammals, including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Carlos González-Orozco
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular-Neurociencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City 04510, Mexico; (J.C.G.-O.); (I.E.-A.)
| | - Itzel Escobedo-Avila
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular-Neurociencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City 04510, Mexico; (J.C.G.-O.); (I.E.-A.)
| | - Iván Velasco
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular-Neurociencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City 04510, Mexico; (J.C.G.-O.); (I.E.-A.)
- Laboratorio de Reprogramación Celular, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico
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21
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Liu XT, Teng ZQ. Early-Stage Application of Agomir-137 Promotes Locomotor Recovery in a Mouse Model of Motor Cortex Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17156. [PMID: 38138985 PMCID: PMC10742653 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant risk factor for neurodegenerative disorders, and patients often experience varying degrees of motor impairment. MiR-137, a broadly conserved and brain-enriched miRNA, is a key regulator in neural development and in various neurological diseases. Following TBI, the expression of miR-137 is dramatically downregulated. However, whether miR-137 is a therapeutic target for TBI still remains unknown. Here, for the first time, we demonstrate that intranasal administration of miR-137 agomir (a mimic) in the early stage (0-7 days) of TBI effectively inhibits glial scar formation and improves neuronal survival, while early-stage administration of miR-137 antagomir (an inhibitor) deteriorates motor impairment. This study elucidates the therapeutic potential of miR-137 mimics in improving locomotor recovery following motor cortex injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Tian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China;
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100408, China
| | - Zhao-Qian Teng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China;
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100408, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing 100101, China
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22
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Jaffer H, Andrabi SS, Petro M, Kuang Y, Steinmetz MP, Labhasetwar V. Catalytic antioxidant nanoparticles mitigate secondary injury progression and promote functional recovery in spinal cord injury model. J Control Release 2023; 364:109-123. [PMID: 37866402 PMCID: PMC10842504 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.10.028] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic spinal cord injury exacerbates disability with time due to secondary injury cascade triggered largely by overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) at the lesion site, causing oxidative stress. This study explored nanoparticles containing antioxidant enzymes (antioxidant NPs) to neutralize excess ROS at the lesion site and its impact. When tested in a rat contusion model of spinal cord injury, a single dose of antioxidant NPs, administered intravenously three hours after injury, effectively restored the redox balance at the lesion site, interrupting the secondary injury progression. This led to reduced spinal cord tissue inflammation, apoptosis, cavitation, and inhibition of syringomyelia. Moreover, the treatment reduced scar tissue forming collagen at the lesion site, protected axons from demyelination, and stimulated lesion healing, with further analysis indicating the formation of immature neurons. The ultimate effect of the treatment was improved motor and sensory functions and rapid post-injury weight loss recovery. Histological analysis revealed activated microglia in the spinal cord displaying rod-shaped anti-inflammatory and regenerative phenotype in treated animals, contrasting with amoeboid inflammatory and degenerative phenotype in untreated control. Overall data suggest that restoring redox balance at the lesion site shifts the dynamics in the injured spinal cord microenvironment from degenerative to regenerative, potentially by promoting endogenous repair mechanisms. Antioxidant NPs show promise to be developed as an early therapeutic intervention in stabilizing injured spinal cord for enhanced recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder Jaffer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Syed Suhail Andrabi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Marianne Petro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Youzhi Kuang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Michael P Steinmetz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Vinod Labhasetwar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
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23
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Mohammed Butt A, Rupareliya V, Hariharan A, Kumar H. Building a pathway to recovery: Targeting ECM remodeling in CNS injuries. Brain Res 2023; 1819:148533. [PMID: 37586675 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148533] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex and dynamic network of proteoglycans, proteins, and other macromolecules that surrounds cells in tissues. The ECM provides structural support to cells and plays a critical role in regulating various cellular functions. ECM remodeling is a dynamic process involving the breakdown and reconstruction of the ECM. This process occurs naturally during tissue growth, wound healing, and tissue repair. However, in the context of central nervous system (CNS) injuries, dysregulated ECM remodeling can lead to the formation of fibrotic and glial scars. CNS injuries encompass various traumatic events, including concussions and fractures. Following CNS trauma, the formation of glial and fibrotic scars becomes prominent. Glial scars primarily consist of reactive astrocytes, while fibrotic scars are characterized by an abundance of ECM proteins. ECM remodeling plays a pivotal and tightly regulated role in the development of these scars after spinal cord and brain injuries. Various factors like ECM components, ECM remodeling enzymes, cell surface receptors of ECM molecules, and downstream pathways of ECM molecules are responsible for the remodeling of the ECM. The aim of this review article is to explore the changes in ECM during normal physiological conditions and following CNS injuries. Additionally, we discuss various approaches that target various factors responsible for ECM remodeling, with a focus on promoting axon regeneration and functional recovery after CNS injuries. By targeting ECM remodeling, it may be possible to enhance axonal regeneration and facilitate functional recovery after CNS injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayub Mohammed Butt
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | - Vimal Rupareliya
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | - A Hariharan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | - Hemant Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India.
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24
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Dong X, Hong H, Cui Z. Function of GSK‑3 signaling in spinal cord injury (Review). Exp Ther Med 2023; 26:541. [PMID: 37869638 PMCID: PMC10587879 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12240] [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: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a major social problem with a heavy burden on patient physiology and psychology. Glial scar formation and irreversible neuron loss are the two key points during SCI progression. During the acute phase of spinal cord injury, glial scars form, limiting the progression of inflammation. However, in the subacute or chronic phase, glial scarring inhibits axon regeneration. Following spinal cord injury, irreversible loss of neurons leads to further aggravation of spinal cord injury. Several therapies have been developed to improve either glial scar or neuron loss; however, few therapies reach the stage of clinical trials and there are no mainstream therapies for SCI. Exploring the key mechanism of SCI is crucial for finding further treatments. Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) is a widely expressed kinase with important physiological and pathophysiological functions in vivo. Dysfunction of the GSK-3 signaling pathway during SCI has been widely discussed for controlling neurite growth in vitro and in vivo, improving the proliferation and neuronal differentiation of endogenous neural stem cells and functional recovery from spinal cord injury. SCI can decrease the phosphorylated (p)/total (t)-GSK-3β ratio, which leads to an increase in apoptosis, whereas treatment with GSK-3 inhibitors can promote neurogenesis. In addition, several therapies for the treatment of SCI involve signaling pathways associated with GSK-3. Furthermore, signaling pathways associated with GSK-3 also participate in the pathological process of neuropathic pain that remains following SCI. The present review summarized the roles of GSK-3 signaling in SCI to aid in the understanding of GSK-3 signaling during the pathological processes of SCI and to provide evidence for the development of comprehensive treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiong Dong
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, P.R. China
| | - Hongxiang Hong
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, P.R. China
| | - Zhiming Cui
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, P.R. China
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25
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Sámano C, Mazzone GL. The role of astrocytes response triggered by hyperglycaemia during spinal cord injury. Arch Physiol Biochem 2023:1-18. [PMID: 37798949 DOI: 10.1080/13813455.2023.2264538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Objective: This manuscript aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the physiological, molecular, and cellular mechanisms triggered by reactive astrocytes (RA) in the context of spinal cord injury (SCI), with a particular focus on cases involving hyperglycaemia.Methods: The compilation of articles related to astrocyte responses in neuropathological conditions, with a specific emphasis on those related to SCI and hyperglycaemia, was conducted by searching through databases including Science Direct, Web of Science, and PubMed.Results and Conclusions: This article explores the dual role of astrocytes in both neurophysiological and neurodegenerative conditions within the central nervous system (CNS). In the aftermath of SCI and hyperglycaemia, astrocytes undergo a transformation into RA, adopting a distinct phenotype. While there are currently no approved therapies for SCI, various therapeutic strategies have been proposed to alleviate the detrimental effects of RAs following SCI and hyperglycemia. These strategies show promising potential in the treatment of SCI and its likely comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Sámano
- Departamento de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Unidad Cuajimalpa (UAM-C), Ciudad de México, México
| | - G L Mazzone
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Traslacional (IIMT), CONICET-Universidad Austral, Pilar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Austral, Pilar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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26
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You J, Youssef MMM, Santos JR, Lee J, Park J. Microglia and Astrocytes in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Disease-Associated States, Pathological Roles, and Therapeutic Potential. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1307. [PMID: 37887017 PMCID: PMC10603852 DOI: 10.3390/biology12101307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Microglial and astrocytic reactivity is a prominent feature of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Microglia and astrocytes have been increasingly appreciated to play pivotal roles in disease pathogenesis. These cells can adopt distinct states characterized by a specific molecular profile or function depending on the different contexts of development, health, aging, and disease. Accumulating evidence from ALS rodent and cell models has demonstrated neuroprotective and neurotoxic functions from microglia and astrocytes. In this review, we focused on the recent advancements of knowledge in microglial and astrocytic states and nomenclature, the landmark discoveries demonstrating a clear contribution of microglia and astrocytes to ALS pathogenesis, and novel therapeutic candidates leveraging these cells that are currently undergoing clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin You
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; (J.Y.); (M.M.M.Y.); (J.R.S.); (J.L.)
| | - Mohieldin M. M. Youssef
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; (J.Y.); (M.M.M.Y.); (J.R.S.); (J.L.)
| | - Jhune Rizsan Santos
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; (J.Y.); (M.M.M.Y.); (J.R.S.); (J.L.)
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Jooyun Lee
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; (J.Y.); (M.M.M.Y.); (J.R.S.); (J.L.)
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Jeehye Park
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; (J.Y.); (M.M.M.Y.); (J.R.S.); (J.L.)
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
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27
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Walsh CM, Wychowaniec JK, Costello L, Brougham DF, Dooley D. An In Vitro and Ex Vivo Analysis of the Potential of GelMA Hydrogels as a Therapeutic Platform for Preclinical Spinal Cord Injury. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300951. [PMID: 37114899 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition with no curative therapy currently available. Immunomodulation can be applied as a therapeutic strategy to drive alternative immune cell activation and promote a proregenerative injury microenvironment. Locally injected hydrogels carrying immunotherapeutic cargo directly to injured tissue offer an encouraging treatment approach from an immunopharmacological perspective. Gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogels are promising in this regard, however, detailed analysis on the immunogenicity of GelMA in the specific context of the SCI microenvironment is lacking. Here, the immunogenicity of GelMA hydrogels formulated with a translationally relevant photoinitiator is analyzed in vitro and ex vivo. 3% (w/v) GelMA, synthesized from gelatin type-A, is first identified as the optimal hydrogel formulation based on mechanical properties and cytocompatibility. Additionally, 3% GelMA-A does not alter the expression profile of key polarization markers in BV2 microglia or RAW264.7 macrophages after 48 h. Finally, it is shown for the first time that 3% GelMA-A can support the ex vivo culture of primary murine organotypic spinal cord slices for 14 days with no direct effect on glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP+ ) astrocyte or ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba-1+ ) microglia reactivity. This provides evidence that GelMA hydrogels can act as an immunotherapeutic hydrogel-based platform for preclinical SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciara M Walsh
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
- UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Jacek K Wychowaniec
- School of Chemistry, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, Davos, 7270, Switzerland
| | - Louise Costello
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Dermot F Brougham
- School of Chemistry, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Dearbhaile Dooley
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
- UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
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28
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Ross BC, Kent RN, Saunders MN, Schwartz SR, Smiley BM, Hocevar SE, Chen SC, Xiao C, Williams LA, Anderson AJ, Cummings BJ, Baker BM, Shea LD. Building-Block Size Mediates Microporous Annealed Particle Hydrogel Tube Microenvironment Following Spinal Cord Injury. Adv Healthc Mater 2023:e2302498. [PMID: 37768019 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a life-altering event, which often results in loss of sensory and motor function below the level of trauma. Biomaterial therapies have been widely investigated in SCI to promote directional regeneration but are often limited by their pre-constructed size and shape. Herein, the design parameters of microporous annealed particles (MAPs) are investigated with tubular geometries that conform to the injury and direct axons across the defect to support functional recovery. MAP tubes prepared from 20-, 40-, and 60-micron polyethylene glycol (PEG) beads are generated and implanted in a T9-10 murine hemisection model of SCI. Tubes attenuate glial and fibrotic scarring, increase innate immune cell density, and reduce inflammatory phenotypes in a bead size-dependent manner. Tubes composed of 60-micron beads increase the cell density of the chronic macrophage response, while neutrophil infiltration and phenotypes do not deviate from those seen in controls. At 8 weeks postinjury, implantation of tubes composed of 60-micron beads results in enhanced locomotor function, robust axonal ingrowth, and remyelination through both lumens and the inter-tube space. Collectively, these studies demonstrate the importance of bead size in MAP construction and highlight PEG tubes as a biomaterial therapy to promote regeneration and functional recovery in SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian C Ross
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Robert N Kent
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Michael N Saunders
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Samantha R Schwartz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Brooke M Smiley
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Sarah E Hocevar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan Medical School, 204 Washtenaw Ave, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Shao-Chi Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Chengchuan Xiao
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, 1105 North University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Laura A Williams
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Aileen J Anderson
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Biological Sciences III, 2642, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, 845 Health Sciences Rd, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of California, 18124 Culver Dr # F, Irvine, CA, 92612, USA
| | - Brian J Cummings
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Biological Sciences III, 2642, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, 845 Health Sciences Rd, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of California, 18124 Culver Dr # F, Irvine, CA, 92612, USA
| | - Brendon M Baker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2300 Hayward St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Lonnie D Shea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan Medical School, 204 Washtenaw Ave, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2300 Hayward St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
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29
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Leone GE, Shields DC, Haque A, Banik NL. Rehabilitation: Neurogenic Bone Loss after Spinal Cord Injury. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2581. [PMID: 37761022 PMCID: PMC10526516 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092581] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteoporosis is a common skeletal disorder which can severely limit one's ability to complete daily tasks due to the increased risk of bone fractures, reducing quality of life. Spinal cord injury (SCI) can also result in osteoporosis and sarcopenia. Most individuals experience sarcopenia and osteoporosis due to advancing age; however, individuals with SCI experience more rapid and debilitating levels of muscle and bone loss due to neurogenic factors, musculoskeletal disuse, and cellular/molecular events. Thus, preserving and maintaining bone mass after SCI is crucial to decreasing the risk of fragility and fracture in vulnerable SCI populations. Recent studies have provided an improved understanding of the pathophysiology and risk factors related to musculoskeletal loss after SCI. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies have also provided for the reduction in or elimination of neurogenic bone loss after SCI. This review article will discuss the pathophysiology and risk factors of muscle and bone loss after SCI, including the mechanisms that may lead to muscle and bone loss after SCI. This review will also focus on current and future pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies for reducing or eliminating neurogenic bone loss following SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna E. Leone
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
| | - Donald C. Shields
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
| | - Azizul Haque
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
- Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Administration Medical Center, Charleston, SC 29401, USA
| | - Narendra L. Banik
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
- Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Administration Medical Center, Charleston, SC 29401, USA
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30
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John U, Patro N, Patro IK. Astrogliosis and associated CSPG upregulation adversely affect dendritogenesis, spinogenesis and synaptic activity in the cerebellum of a double-hit rat model of protein malnutrition (PMN) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced bacterial infection. J Chem Neuroanat 2023; 131:102286. [PMID: 37169039 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2023.102286] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a vital role in growth, guidance and survival of neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). The chondroitin sulphate proteoglycans (CSPGs) are a type of ECM proteins that are crucial for CNS homeostasis. The major goal of this study was to uncover the effects of astroglial activation and associated intensified expression of CSPGs on dendritogenesis, spinogenesis as well as on synaptic activity in cerebellum following protein malnutrition (PMN) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced bacterial infection. Female Wistar albino rats (3 months old) were switched to control (20% protein) or low protein (LP, 8% protein) diet for 15 days followed by breeding. A set of pups born to control/LP mothers and maintained on respective diets throughout the experimental period constituted the control and LP groups, while a separate set of both control and LP group pups exposed to bacterial infection by a single intraperitoneal injection of LPS (0.3 mg/ kg body weight) on postnatal day-9 (P-9) constituted control+LPS and LP+LPS groups respectively. The consequences of astrogliosis induced CSPG upregulation on cerebellar cytoarchitecture and synaptic activity were studied using standard immunohistochemical and histological tools on P-21 and 6 months of age. The results revealed reactive astrogliosis and associated CSPG upregulation in a double-hit model of PMN and LPS induced bacterial infection resulted in disrupted dendritogenesis, reduced postsynaptic density protein (PSD-95) levels and a deleterious impact on normal spine growth. Such alterations frequently have the potential to cause synaptic dysregulation and inhibition of plasticity both during development as well as adulthood. At the light of our results, we can envision that upregulation of CSPGs in PMN and LPS co-challenged individuals might emerge as an important modulator of brain circuitry and a major causative factor for many neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urmilla John
- School of Studies in Neuroscience, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, India; School of Studies in Zoology, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, India
| | - Nisha Patro
- School of Studies in Neuroscience, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, India
| | - Ishan K Patro
- School of Studies in Neuroscience, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, India; School of Studies in Zoology, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, India.
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Sun Z, Zhu D, Zhao H, Liu J, He P, Luan X, Hu H, Zhang X, Wei G, Xi Y. Recent advance in bioactive hydrogels for repairing spinal cord injury: material design, biofunctional regulation, and applications. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:238. [PMID: 37488557 PMCID: PMC10364437 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-01996-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Functional hydrogels show potential application in repairing spinal cord injury (SCI) due to their unique chemical, physical, and biological properties and functions. In this comprehensive review, we present recent advance in the material design, functional regulation, and SCI repair applications of bioactive hydrogels. Different from previously released reviews on hydrogels and three-dimensional scaffolds for the SCI repair, this work focuses on the strategies for material design and biologically functional regulation of hydrogels, specifically aiming to show how these significant efforts can promoting the repairing performance of SCI. We demonstrate various methods and techniques for the fabrication of bioactive hydrogels with the biological components such as DNA, proteins, peptides, biomass polysaccharides, and biopolymers to obtain unique biological properties of hydrogels, including the cell biocompatibility, self-healing, anti-bacterial activity, injectability, bio-adhesion, bio-degradation, and other multi-functions for repairing SCI. The functional regulation of bioactive hydrogels with drugs/growth factors, polymers, nanoparticles, one-dimensional materials, and two-dimensional materials for highly effective treating SCI are introduced and discussed in detail. This work shows new viewpoints and ideas on the design and synthesis of bioactive hydrogels with the state-of-the-art knowledges of materials science and nanotechnology, and will bridge the connection of materials science and biomedicine, and further inspire clinical potential of bioactive hydrogels in biomedical fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengang Sun
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People's Republic of China
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Huangdao Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- The Department of Plastic Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, People's Republic of China
| | - Danzhu Zhu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Zhao
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Huangdao Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Huangdao Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Peng He
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Luan
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People's Republic of China
| | - Huiqiang Hu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuanfen Zhang
- The Department of Plastic Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, People's Republic of China.
| | - Gang Wei
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yongming Xi
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, People's Republic of China.
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Hall CM, Lasli S, Serwinski B, Djordjevic B, Sheridan GK, Moeendarbary E. Hippocampus of the APP NL-G-F mouse model of Alzheimer's disease exhibits region-specific tissue softening concomitant with elevated astrogliosis. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1212212. [PMID: 37547743 PMCID: PMC10398960 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1212212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Widespread neurodegeneration, enlargement of cerebral ventricles, and atrophy of cortical and hippocampal brain structures are classic hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Prominent macroscopic disturbances to the cytoarchitecture of the AD brain occur alongside changes in the mechanical properties of brain tissue, as reported in recent magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) measurements of human brain mechanics. Whilst MRE has many advantages, a significant shortcoming is its spatial resolution. Higher resolution "cellular scale" assessment of the mechanical alterations to brain regions involved in memory formation, such as the hippocampus, could provide fresh new insight into the etiology of AD. Characterization of brain tissue mechanics at the cellular length scale is the first stepping-stone to understanding how mechanosensitive neurons and glia are impacted by neurodegenerative disease-associated changes in their microenvironment. To provide insight into the microscale mechanics of aging brain tissue, we measured spatiotemporal changes in the mechanical properties of the hippocampus using high resolution atomic force microscopy (AFM) indentation tests on acute brain slices from young and aged wild-type mice and the APPNL-G-F mouse model. Several hippocampal regions in APPNL-G-F mice are significantly softer than age-matched wild-types, notably the dentate granule cell layer and the CA1 pyramidal cell layer. Interestingly, regional softening coincides with an increase in astrocyte reactivity, suggesting that amyloid pathology-mediated alterations to the mechanical properties of brain tissue may impact the function of mechanosensitive astrocytes. Our data also raise questions as to whether aberrant mechanotransduction signaling could impact the susceptibility of neurons to cellular stressors in their microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe M. Hall
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- School of Applied Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Soufian Lasli
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bianca Serwinski
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- 199 Biotechnologies Ltd., London, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Northeastern University London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Boris Djordjevic
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- 199 Biotechnologies Ltd., London, United Kingdom
| | - Graham K. Sheridan
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Emad Moeendarbary
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Hejrati N, Wong R, Khazaei M, Fehlings MG. How can clinical safety and efficacy concerns in stem cell therapy for spinal cord injury be overcome? Expert Opin Biol Ther 2023; 23:883-899. [PMID: 37545020 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2023.2245321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Spinal cord injury (SCI) can lead to severe neurological dysfunction. Despite scientific and medical advances, clinically effective regenerative therapies including stem cells are lacking for SCI. AREAS COVERED This paper discusses translational challenges related to the safe, effective use of stem cells for SCI, with a focus on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), neural stem cells (NSCs), Schwann cells (SCs), olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), embryonic stem cells (ESCs), and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). We discuss approaches to enhance the efficacy of cell-based strategies by i) addressing patient heterogeneity and enhancing patient selection; ii) selecting cell type, cell source, cell developmental stage, and delivery technique; iii) enhancing graft integration and mitigating immune-mediated graft rejection; and iv) ensuring availability of cells. Additionally, we review strategies to optimize outcomes including combinatorial use of rehabilitation and discuss ways to mitigate potential risks of tumor formation associated with stem cell-based strategies. EXPERT OPINION Basic science research will drive translational advances to develop stem cell-based therapies for SCI. Genetic, serological, and imaging biomarkers may enable individualization of cell-based treatments. Moreover, combinatorial strategies will be required to enhance graft survival, migration and functional integration, to enable precision-based intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nader Hejrati
- Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery and Spine Program, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Neurosurgery & Spine Center of Eastern Switzerland, Cantonal Hospital St.Gallen, St.Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Raymond Wong
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mohamad Khazaei
- Division of Neurosurgery and Spine Program, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael G Fehlings
- Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery and Spine Program, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Gupta S, Dutta S, Hui SP. Regenerative Potential of Injured Spinal Cord in the Light of Epigenetic Regulation and Modulation. Cells 2023; 12:1694. [PMID: 37443728 PMCID: PMC10341208 DOI: 10.3390/cells12131694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
A spinal cord injury is a form of physical harm imposed on the spinal cord that causes disability and, in many cases, leads to permanent mammalian paralysis, which causes a disastrous global issue. Because of its non-regenerative aspect, restoring the spinal cord's role remains one of the most daunting tasks. By comparison, the remarkable regenerative ability of some regeneration-competent species, such as some Urodeles (Axolotl), Xenopus, and some teleost fishes, enables maximum functional recovery, even after complete spinal cord transection. During the last two decades of intensive research, significant progress has been made in understanding both regenerative cells' origins and the molecular signaling mechanisms underlying the regeneration and reconstruction of damaged spinal cords in regenerating organisms and mammals, respectively. Epigenetic control has gradually moved into the center stage of this research field, which has been helped by comprehensive work demonstrating that DNA methylation, histone modifications, and microRNAs are important for the regeneration of the spinal cord. In this review, we concentrate primarily on providing a comparison of the epigenetic mechanisms in spinal cord injuries between non-regenerating and regenerating species. In addition, we further discuss the epigenetic mediators that underlie the development of a regeneration-permissive environment following injury in regeneration-competent animals and how such mediators may be implicated in optimizing treatment outcomes for spinal cord injurie in higher-order mammals. Finally, we briefly discuss the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the context of spinal cord injury and their potential as targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samudra Gupta
- S.N. Pradhan Centre for Neurosciences, University of Calcutta, 35, Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata 700019, India;
| | - Suman Dutta
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK;
| | - Subhra Prakash Hui
- S.N. Pradhan Centre for Neurosciences, University of Calcutta, 35, Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata 700019, India;
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Slovinska L, Harvanova D. The Role of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells and Their Products in the Treatment of Injured Spinal Cords. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:5180-5197. [PMID: 37367078 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45060329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a destructive condition that results in lasting neurological damage resulting in disruption of the connection between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. Currently, there are several approaches in the treatment of a damaged spinal cord; however, none of the methods allow the patient to return to the original full-featured state of life before the injury. Cell transplantation therapies show great potential in the treatment of damaged spinal cords. The most examined type of cells used in SCI research are mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). These cells are at the center of interest of scientists because of their unique properties. MSCs regenerate the injured tissue in two ways: (i) they are able to differentiate into some types of cells and so can replace the cells of injured tissue and (ii) they regenerate tissue through their powerful known paracrine effect. This review presents information about SCI and the treatments usually used, aiming at cell therapy using MSCs and their products, among which active biomolecules and extracellular vesicles predominate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Slovinska
- Associated Tissue Bank, P.J. Šafárik University and L. Pasteur University Hospital, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy, Institute of Neurobiology Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia
| | - Denisa Harvanova
- Associated Tissue Bank, P.J. Šafárik University and L. Pasteur University Hospital, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia
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Gage M, Vasanthi SS, Meyer CM, Rao NS, Thedens DR, Kannurpatti SS, Thippeswamy T. Sex-based structural and functional MRI outcomes in the rat brain after soman (GD) exposure-induced status epilepticus. Epilepsia Open 2023; 8:399-410. [PMID: 36718979 PMCID: PMC10235578 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Exposure to the nerve agent, soman (GD), induces status epilepticus (SE), epileptogenesis, and even death. Although rodent models studying the pathophysiological mechanisms show females to be more reactive to soman, no tangible sex differences in brains postexposure have been reported. In this study, we used multimodal imaging using MRI in adult rats to determine potential sex-based biomarkers of soman effects. METHODS Male and female Sprague Dawley rats were challenged with 1.2 × LD50 soman followed by medical countermeasures. Ten weeks later, the brains were analyzed via structural and functional MRI. RESULTS Despite no significant sex differences in the initial SE severity after soman exposure, long-term MRI-based structural and functional differences were evident in the brains of both sexes. While T2 MRI showed lesser soman-induced neurodegeneration, large areas of T1 enhancements occurred in females than in males, indicating a distinct pathophysiology unrelated to neurodegeneration. fMRI-based resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC), indicated greater reductions in soman-exposed females than in males, associating with the T1 enhancements (unrelated to neurodegeneration) rather than T2-hyperintensity or T1-hypointensity (representing neurodegeneration). The wider T1 enhancements associating with the decreased spontaneous neuronal activity in multiple resting-state networks in soman-exposed females than males suggest that neural changes unrelated to cellular atrophy impinge on brain function postexposure. Taken together with lower spontaneous neural activity in soman-exposed females, the results indicate some form of neuroprotective state that was not present in males. SIGNIFICANCE The results indicate that endpoints other than neurodegeneration may need to be considered to translate sex-based nerve agent effects in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan Gage
- Department of Biomedical SciencesCollege of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State UniversityAmesIowaUSA
| | - Suraj S Vasanthi
- Department of Biomedical SciencesCollege of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State UniversityAmesIowaUSA
| | - Christina M Meyer
- Department of Biomedical SciencesCollege of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State UniversityAmesIowaUSA
| | - Nikhil S Rao
- Department of Biomedical SciencesCollege of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State UniversityAmesIowaUSA
| | - Daniel R Thedens
- Department of RadiologyCarver College of Medicine, The University of IowaIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Sridhar S. Kannurpatti
- Department of Radiology, Rutgers Biomedical and Health SciencesNew Jersey Medical SchoolNewarkNew JerseyUSA
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Shafqat A, Albalkhi I, Magableh HM, Saleh T, Alkattan K, Yaqinuddin A. Tackling the glial scar in spinal cord regeneration: new discoveries and future directions. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1180825. [PMID: 37293626 PMCID: PMC10244598 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1180825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Axonal regeneration and functional recovery are poor after spinal cord injury (SCI), typified by the formation of an injury scar. While this scar was traditionally believed to be primarily responsible for axonal regeneration failure, current knowledge takes a more holistic approach that considers the intrinsic growth capacity of axons. Targeting the SCI scar has also not reproducibly yielded nearly the same efficacy in animal models compared to these neuron-directed approaches. These results suggest that the major reason behind central nervous system (CNS) regeneration failure is not the injury scar but a failure to stimulate axon growth adequately. These findings raise questions about whether targeting neuroinflammation and glial scarring still constitute viable translational avenues. We provide a comprehensive review of the dual role of neuroinflammation and scarring after SCI and how future research can produce therapeutic strategies targeting the hurdles to axonal regeneration posed by these processes without compromising neuroprotection.
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Zheng B, He Y, Yin S, Zhu X, Zhao Q, Yang H, Wang Z, Zhu R, Cheng L. Unresolved Excess Accumulation of Myelin-Derived Cholesterol Contributes to Scar Formation after Spinal Cord Injury. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2023; 6:0135. [PMID: 37223476 PMCID: PMC10202378 DOI: 10.34133/research.0135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury triggers complex pathological cascades, resulting in destructive tissue damage and incomplete tissue repair. Scar formation is generally considered a barrier for regeneration in the central nervous system. However, the intrinsic mechanism of scar formation after spinal cord injury has not been fully elucidated. Here, we report that excess cholesterol accumulates in phagocytes and is inefficiently removed from spinal cord lesions in young adult mice. Interestingly, we observed that excessive cholesterol also accumulates in injured peripheral nerves but is subsequently removed by reverse cholesterol transport. Meanwhile, preventing reverse cholesterol transport leads to macrophage accumulation and fibrosis in injured peripheral nerves. Furthermore, the neonatal mouse spinal cord lesions are devoid of myelin-derived lipids and can heal without excess cholesterol accumulation. We found that transplantation of myelin into neonatal lesions disrupts healing with excessive cholesterol accumulation, persistent macrophage activation, and fibrosis. Myelin internalization suppresses macrophage apoptosis mediated by CD5L expression, indicating that myelin-derived cholesterol plays a critical role in impaired wound healing. Taken together, our data suggest that the central nervous system lacks an efficient approach for cholesterol clearance, resulting in excessive accumulation of myelin-derived cholesterol, thereby inducing scar formation after injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bolin Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration, Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine,
Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yijing He
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration, Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine,
Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Shuai Yin
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration, Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine,
Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xu Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration, Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine,
Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Qing Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration, Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine,
Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Huiyi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration, Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine,
Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Zhaojie Wang
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration, Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine,
Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
- Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, School of Life Science and Technology,
Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Rongrong Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration, Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine,
Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
- Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, School of Life Science and Technology,
Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Liming Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration, Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine,
Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
- Clinical Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Research,
Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
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Liu A, Yu L, Li X, Zhang K, Zhang W, So KF, Tissir F, Qu Y, Zhou L. Celsr2-mediated morphological polarization and functional phenotype of reactive astrocytes in neural repair. Glia 2023. [PMID: 37186402 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Neural repair is highly influenced by reactive astrocytes. Atypical cadherin Celsr2 regulates neuron development and axon regeneration, while its role in glial cells remains unexplored. In this study, we show that Celsr2 is highly expressed in spinal astrocytes of adult mice, and knockout of Celsr2 results in reactive astrocytes with longer protrusions preferentially orientated towards lesion borders in culture scratch assay and injured spinal cord, and elevation of total and active Cdc42 and Rac1 protein in western blots. Inactivation of Celsr2 enhances calcium influx in reactive astrocytes in time-lapse imaging. Morphological phenotypes of cultured Celsr2-/- astrocytes are rescued by Cdc42 or Rac1 inhibitors. Following spinal cord injury (SCI), Celsr2-/- mice exhibit smaller lesion cavity and glial scar, enhanced fiber regeneration, weaker microglial response, and improved functional recovery than control animals. Similar phenotypes are found in mice with conditional knockout of Celsr2 in astrocytes. In Celsr2-/- mice, astrocyte phenotype is changed and neuroinflammation is alleviated after injury. Inhibiting Cdc42/Rac1 activities compromises astrocyte polarization and the improvement of neural repair and functional recovery in Celsr2-/- mice with SCI. In conclusion, Celsr2 regulates morphological polarization and functional phenotype of reactive astrocytes and inactivating Celsr2 is a potential therapeutic strategy for neural repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimei Liu
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingtai Yu
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuejun Li
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Kejiao Zhang
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, The First Affiliated Hospital & Clinical Neuroscience Institute of Jinan University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
- Center for Exercise and Brain Science, School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Fadel Tissir
- Institute of Neuroscience, Developmental Neurobiology, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Doha, Qatar
| | - Yibo Qu
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
- Center for Exercise and Brain Science, School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Libing Zhou
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, The First Affiliated Hospital & Clinical Neuroscience Institute of Jinan University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
- Center for Exercise and Brain Science, School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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Zeng CW. Multipotent Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Based Therapies for Spinal Cord Injury: Current Progress and Future Prospects. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12050653. [PMID: 37237467 DOI: 10.3390/biology12050653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents a significant medical challenge, often resulting in permanent disability and severely impacting the quality of life for affected individuals. Traditional treatment options remain limited, underscoring the need for novel therapeutic approaches. In recent years, multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as a promising candidate for SCI treatment due to their multifaceted regenerative capabilities. This comprehensive review synthesizes the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying MSC-mediated tissue repair in SCI. Key mechanisms discussed include neuroprotection through the secretion of growth factors and cytokines, promotion of neuronal regeneration via MSC differentiation into neural cell types, angiogenesis through the release of pro-angiogenic factors, immunomodulation by modulating immune cell activity, axonal regeneration driven by neurotrophic factors, and glial scar reduction via modulation of extracellular matrix components. Additionally, the review examines the various clinical applications of MSCs in SCI treatment, such as direct cell transplantation into the injured spinal cord, tissue engineering using biomaterial scaffolds that support MSC survival and integration, and innovative cell-based therapies like MSC-derived exosomes, which possess regenerative and neuroprotective properties. As the field progresses, it is crucial to address the challenges associated with MSC-based therapies, including determining optimal sources, intervention timing, and delivery methods, as well as developing standardized protocols for MSC isolation, expansion, and characterization. Overcoming these challenges will facilitate the translation of preclinical findings into clinical practice, providing new hope and improved treatment options for individuals living with the devastating consequences of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Wei Zeng
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
- Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
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Lee CYP, Chooi WH, Ng SY, Chew SY. Modulating neuroinflammation through molecular, cellular and biomaterial-based approaches to treat spinal cord injury. Bioeng Transl Med 2023; 8:e10389. [PMID: 36925680 PMCID: PMC10013833 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10389] [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: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuroinflammatory response that is elicited after spinal cord injury contributes to both tissue damage and reparative processes. The complex and dynamic cellular and molecular changes within the spinal cord microenvironment result in a functional imbalance of immune cells and their modulatory factors. To facilitate wound healing and repair, it is necessary to manipulate the immunological pathways during neuroinflammation to achieve successful therapeutic interventions. In this review, recent advancements and fresh perspectives on the consequences of neuroinflammation after SCI and modulation of the inflammatory responses through the use of molecular-, cellular-, and biomaterial-based therapies to promote tissue regeneration and functional recovery will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Yi-Pin Lee
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology ASTAR Research Entities Singapore Singapore
| | - Wai Hon Chooi
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology ASTAR Research Entities Singapore Singapore
| | - Shi-Yan Ng
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology ASTAR Research Entities Singapore Singapore
| | - Sing Yian Chew
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Nanyang Technological University Singapore Singapore.,Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine Nanyang Technological University Singapore Singapore.,School of Materials Science and Engineering Nanyang Technological University Singapore Singapore
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42
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Bringuier CM, Noristani HN, Perez JC, Cardoso M, Goze-Bac C, Gerber YN, Perrin FE. Up-Regulation of Astrocytic Fgfr4 Expression in Adult Mice after Spinal Cord Injury. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040528. [PMID: 36831195 PMCID: PMC9954417 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to persistent neurological deficits without available curative treatment. After SCI astrocytes within the lesion vicinity become reactive, these undergo major morphological, and molecular transformations. Previously, we reported that following SCI, over 10% of resident astrocytes surrounding the lesion spontaneously transdifferentiate towards a neuronal phenotype. Moreover, this conversion is associated with an increased expression of fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (Fgfr4), a neural stem cell marker, in astrocytes. Here, we evaluate the therapeutic potential of gene therapy upon Fgfr4 over-expression in mature astrocytes following SCI in adult mice. We found that Fgfr4 over-expression in astrocytes immediately after SCI improves motor function recovery; however, it may display sexual dimorphism. Improved functional recovery is associated with a decrease in spinal cord lesion volume and reduced glial reactivity. Cell-specific transcriptomic profiling revealed concomitant downregulation of Notch signaling, and up-regulation of neurogenic pathways in converting astrocytes. Our findings suggest that gene therapy targeting Fgfr4 over-expression in astrocytes after injury is a feasible therapeutic approach to improve recovery following traumatism of the spinal cord. Moreover, we stress that a sex-dependent response to astrocytic modulation should be considered for the development of effective translational strategies in other neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Maida Cardoso
- UMR 5221, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, 34095 Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Florence Evelyne Perrin
- MMDN, Univ. Montpellier, EPHE, INSERM, 34095 Montpellier, France
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), 75005 Paris, France
- Correspondence:
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Dorrian RM, Berryman CF, Lauto A, Leonard AV. Electrical stimulation for the treatment of spinal cord injuries: A review of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive functional improvements. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1095259. [PMID: 36816852 PMCID: PMC9936196 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1095259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition that causes severe loss of motor, sensory and autonomic functions. Additionally, many individuals experience chronic neuropathic pain that is often refractory to interventions. While treatment options to improve outcomes for individuals with SCI remain limited, significant research efforts in the field of electrical stimulation have made promising advancements. Epidural electrical stimulation, peripheral nerve stimulation, and functional electrical stimulation have shown promising improvements for individuals with SCI, ranging from complete weight-bearing locomotion to the recovery of sexual function. Despite this, there is a paucity of mechanistic understanding, limiting our ability to optimize stimulation devices and parameters, or utilize combinatorial treatments to maximize efficacy. This review provides a background into SCI pathophysiology and electrical stimulation methods, before exploring cellular and molecular mechanisms suggested in the literature. We highlight several key mechanisms that contribute to functional improvements from electrical stimulation, identify gaps in current knowledge and highlight potential research avenues for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M. Dorrian
- Spinal Cord Injury Research Group, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia,*Correspondence: Ryan M. Dorrian,
| | | | - Antonio Lauto
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Anna V. Leonard
- Spinal Cord Injury Research Group, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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44
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New LE, Yanagawa Y, McConkey GA, Deuchars J, Deuchars SA. GABAergic regulation of cell proliferation within the adult mouse spinal cord. Neuropharmacology 2023; 223:109326. [PMID: 36336067 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Manipulation of neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation in the postnatal CNS is receiving significant attention due to therapeutic potential. In the spinal cord, such manipulations may promote repair in conditions such as multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury, but may also limit excessive cell proliferation contributing to tumours such as ependymomas. We show that when ambient γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is increased in vigabatrin-treated or decreased by GAD67 allele haplodeficiency in glutamic acid decarboxylase67-green fluorescent protein (GAD67-GFP) mice of either sex, the numbers of proliferating cells respectively decreased or increased. Thus, intrinsic spinal cord GABA levels are correlated with the extent of cell proliferation, providing important evidence for manipulating these levels. Diazepam binding inhibitor, an endogenous protein that interacts with GABA receptors and its breakdown product, octadecaneuropeptide, which preferentially activates central benzodiazepine (CBR) sites, were highly expressed in spinal cord, especially in ependymal cells surrounding the central canal. Furthermore, animals with reduced CBR activation via treatment with flumazenil or Ro15-4513, or with a G2F77I mutation in the CBR binding site had greater numbers of Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine positive cells compared to control, which maintained their stem cell status since the proportion of newly proliferated cells becoming oligodendrocytes or astrocytes was significantly lower. Altering endogenous GABA levels or modulating GABAergic signalling through specific sites on GABA receptors therefore influences NSC proliferation in the adult spinal cord. These findings provide a basis for further study into how GABAergic signalling could be manipulated to enable spinal cord self-regeneration and recovery or limit pathological proliferative activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauryn E New
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, UK
| | - Yuchio Yanagawa
- Department of Genetic and Behavioural Neuroscience, Gunma University, Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Glenn A McConkey
- School of Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, UK
| | - Jim Deuchars
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, UK
| | - Susan A Deuchars
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, UK.
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45
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Cai Z, Han X, Li R, Yu T, Chen L, Wu X, Jin J. Research Progress of Long Non-coding RNAs in Spinal Cord Injury. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:1-12. [PMID: 35974214 PMCID: PMC9823062 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03720-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) can result in a partial or complete loss of motor and sensory function below the injured segment, which has a significant impact on patients' quality of life and places a significant social burden on them. Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) is a 200-1000 bp non-coding RNA that has been shown to have a key regulatory role in the progression of a variety of neurological illnesses. Many studies have demonstrated that differentially expressed LncRNAs following spinal cord injury can participate in inflammatory damage, apoptosis, and nerve healing by functioning as competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA); at the same time, it has a significant regulatory effect on sequelae such neuropathic pain. As a result, we believe that LncRNAs could be useful as a molecular regulatory target in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongyan Cai
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Han
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruizhe Li
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianci Yu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Chen
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - XueXue Wu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaxin Jin
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China.
- Orthopaedics Key Laboratory of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China.
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Li X, Qian Y, Shen W, Zhang S, Han H, Zhang Y, Liu S, Lv S, Zhang X. Mechanism of SET8 Activates the Nrf2-KEAP1-ARE Signaling Pathway to Promote the Recovery of Motor Function after Spinal Cord Injury. Mediators Inflamm 2023; 2023:4420592. [PMID: 36936537 PMCID: PMC10023234 DOI: 10.1155/2023/4420592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a common injury of the central nervous system (CNS), and astrocytes are relatively abundant glial cells in the CNS that impairs the recovery of motor function after SCI. It was confirmed that the oxidative stress of mitochondria leads to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells, which plays a key role in the motor function of astrocytes. However, the mechanism by which oxidative stress affects astrocyte motility after SCI is still unexplained. Therefore, this study investigated the influence of SET8-regulated oxidative stress on astrocyte autophagy levels after SCI in rats and the potential mechanisms of action. Methods We used real-time quantitative PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemical staining to analyze SET8, Keap1, and Nrf2 expression at the cellular level and in SCI tissues. ChIP to detect H4K20me1 enrichment in the Keap1 promoter region under OE-SET8 (overexpression of SET8) conditions. Western blotting was used to assess the expression of signature proteins of astrocytes, proteins associated with autophagy, proteins associated with glial scar formation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in cells using DHE staining, and astrocyte number, morphological alterations, and induction of glial scar formation processes using immunofluorescence. In addition, the survival rate of neurons after SCI in rats was examined by using NiSSl staining. Results OE-SET8 upregulates the enrichment of H4K20me1 in Keap1, inhibits Keap1 expression, activates the Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway to suppress ROS accumulation, inhibits oxidative stress-induced autophagy and glial scar formation in astrocytes, and leads to reduced neuronal loss, which promoted the recovery and improvement of motor function after SCI in rats. Conclusion Overexpression of SET8 alleviated oxidative stress by regulating Keap1/Nrf2/ARE, inhibited astrocyte autophagy levels, and reduced glial scar formation as well as neuronal loss, thereby promoting improved recovery of motor function after SCI. Thus, the SET8/H4K20me1 regulatory function may be a promising cellular therapeutic intervention point after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- Rehabilitation Medicine of Qujing No. 1 Hospital, Qujing, 655000 Yunnan, China
| | - Yan Qian
- Rehabilitation Medicine of Qujing No. 1 Hospital, Qujing, 655000 Yunnan, China
| | - Wanling Shen
- Rehabilitation Medicine of Qujing No. 1 Hospital, Qujing, 655000 Yunnan, China
| | - Shiying Zhang
- Rehabilitation Medicine of Qujing No. 1 Hospital, Qujing, 655000 Yunnan, China
| | - Hui Han
- Rehabilitation Medicine of Qujing No. 1 Hospital, Qujing, 655000 Yunnan, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Rehabilitation Medicine of Qujing No. 1 Hospital, Qujing, 655000 Yunnan, China
| | - Shuangmei Liu
- Rehabilitation Medicine of Qujing No. 1 Hospital, Qujing, 655000 Yunnan, China
| | - Shaokun Lv
- Rehabilitation Medicine of Qujing No. 1 Hospital, Qujing, 655000 Yunnan, China
| | - Xiuying Zhang
- Rehabilitation Medicine of Qujing No. 1 Hospital, Qujing, 655000 Yunnan, China
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Chen G, Yang RY, Chai R, Pan JY, Bao JY, Xia PH, Wang YK, Chen Y, Li Y, Wu J. Knockdown of polypyrimidine tract binding protein facilitates motor function recovery after spinal cord injury. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:396-403. [PMID: 35900436 PMCID: PMC9396513 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.346463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
After spinal cord injury (SCI), a fibroblast- and microglia-mediated fibrotic scar is formed in the lesion core, and a glial scar is formed around the fibrotic scar as a result of the activation and proliferation of astrocytes. Simultaneously, a large number of neurons are lost in the injured area. Regulating the dense glial scar and replenishing neurons in the injured area are essential for SCI repair. Polypyrimidine tract binding protein (PTB), known as an RNA-binding protein, plays a key role in neurogenesis. Here, we utilized short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) to knock down PTB expression. We found that reactive spinal astrocytes from mice were directly reprogrammed into motoneuron-like cells by PTB downregulation in vitro. In a mouse model of compression-induced SCI, adeno-associated viral shRNA-mediated PTB knockdown replenished motoneuron-like cells around the injured area. Basso Mouse Scale scores and forced swim, inclined plate, cold allodynia, and hot plate tests showed that PTB knockdown promoted motor function recovery in mice but did not improve sensory perception after SCI. Furthermore, ASO-mediated PTB knockdown improved motor function restoration by not only replenishing motoneuron-like cells around the injured area but also by modestly reducing the density of the glial scar without disrupting its overall structure. Together, these findings suggest that PTB knockdown may be a promising therapeutic strategy to promote motor function recovery during spinal cord repair.
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48
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Enzmann V, Conedera F. Regenerative capacity of Müller cells and their modulation as a tool to treat retinal degenerations. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:139-140. [PMID: 35799533 PMCID: PMC9241422 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.340408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
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49
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Xia Y, Yang R, Wang H, Hou Y, Li Y, Zhu J, Xu F, Fu C. Biomaterials delivery strategies to repair spinal cord injury by modulating macrophage phenotypes. J Tissue Eng 2022; 13:20417314221143059. [PMID: 36600997 PMCID: PMC9806413 DOI: 10.1177/20417314221143059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes tremendous harm to a patient's physical, mental, and financial health. Moreover, recovery of SCI is affected by many factors, inflammation is one of the most important as it engulfs necrotic tissue and cells during the early stages of injury. However, excessive inflammation is not conducive to damage repair. Macrophages are classified into either blood-derived macrophages or resident microglia based on their origin, their effects on SCI being two-sided. Microglia first activate and recruit blood-derived macrophages at the site of injury-blood-borne macrophages being divided into pro-inflammatory M1 phenotypes and anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes. Among them, M1 macrophages secrete inflammatory factors such as interleukin-β (IL-β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-6, and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) at the injury site, which aggravates SCIs. M2 macrophages secrete IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, and neurotrophic factors to inhibit the inflammatory response and inhibit neuronal apoptosis. Consequently, modulating phenotypic differentiation of macrophages appears to be a meaningful therapeutic target for the treatment of SCI. Biomaterials are widely used in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering due to their targeting and bio-histocompatibility. In this review, we describe the effects of biomaterials applied to modulate macrophage phenotypes on SCI recovery and provide an outlook.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanliang Xia
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, PR China
| | - Ruohan Yang
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of
Jilin University, Changchun, PR China
| | - Hengyi Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, PR China
| | - Yulin Hou
- Depattment of Cardiology, Guangyuan
Central Hospital, Guangyuan, PR China
| | - Yuehong Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, PR China
| | - Jianshu Zhu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, PR China
| | - Feng Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, PR China
| | - Changfeng Fu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, PR China,Changfeng Fu, Department of Spine Surgery,
The First Hospital of Jilin University, 1 Xinmin Street, Changchun 130021, PR
China.
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50
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Park YM, Kim JH, Lee JE. Neural Stem Cells Overexpressing Arginine Decarboxylase Improve Functional Recovery from Spinal Cord Injury in a Mouse Model. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415784. [PMID: 36555425 PMCID: PMC9779865 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Current therapeutic strategies for spinal cord injury (SCI) cannot fully facilitate neural regeneration or improve function. Arginine decarboxylase (ADC) synthesizes agmatine, an endogenous primary amine with neuroprotective effects. Transfection of human ADC (hADC) gene exerts protective effects after injury in murine brain-derived neural precursor cells (mNPCs). Following from these findings, we investigated the effects of hADC-mNPC transplantation in SCI model mice. Mice with experimentally damaged spinal cords were divided into three groups, separately transplanted with fluorescently labeled (1) control mNPCs, (2) retroviral vector (pLXSN)-infected mNPCs (pLXSN-mNPCs), and (3) hADC-mNPCs. Behavioral comparisons between groups were conducted weekly up to 6 weeks after SCI, and urine volume was measured up to 2 weeks after SCI. A subset of animals was euthanized each week after cell transplantation for molecular and histological analyses. The transplantation groups experienced significantly improved behavioral function, with the best recovery occurring in hADC-mNPC mice. Transplanting hADC-mNPCs improved neurological outcomes, induced oligodendrocyte differentiation and remyelination, increased neural lineage differentiation, and decreased glial scar formation. Moreover, locomotor and bladder function were both rehabilitated. These beneficial effects are likely related to differential BMP-2/4/7 expression in neuronal cells, providing an empirical basis for gene therapy as a curative SCI treatment option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Mi Park
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
- BK 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
- CHA Advanced Research Institute, CHA University, CHA Bio-Complex, 335, Pangyo-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si 13488, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, CHA Bio-Complex, 335, Pangyo-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si 13488, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hwan Kim
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
- BK 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Eun Lee
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
- BK 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
- Brain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-2228-1646
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