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Singh R, Rai S, Bharti PS, Zehra S, Gorai PK, Modi GP, Rani N, Dev K, Inampudi KK, Y VV, Chatterjee P, Nikolajeff F, Kumar S. Circulating small extracellular vesicles in Alzheimer's disease: a case-control study of neuro-inflammation and synaptic dysfunction. BMC Med 2024; 22:254. [PMID: 38902659 PMCID: PMC11188177 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03475-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by Aβ plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Chronic inflammation and synaptic dysfunction lead to disease progression and cognitive decline. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are implicated in AD progression by facilitating the spread of pathological proteins and inflammatory cytokines. This study investigates synaptic dysfunction and neuroinflammation protein markers in plasma-derived sEVs (PsEVs), their association with Amyloid-β and tau pathologies, and their correlation with AD progression. METHODS A total of 90 [AD = 35, mild cognitive impairment (MCI) = 25, and healthy age-matched controls (AMC) = 30] participants were recruited. PsEVs were isolated using a chemical precipitation method, and their morphology was characterized by transmission electron microscopy. Using nanoparticle tracking analysis, the size and concentration of PsEVs were determined. Antibody-based validation of PsEVs was done using CD63, CD81, TSG101, and L1CAM antibodies. Synaptic dysfunction and neuroinflammation were evaluated with synaptophysin, TNF-α, IL-1β, and GFAP antibodies. AD-specific markers, amyloid-β (1-42), and p-Tau were examined within PsEVs using Western blot and ELISA. RESULTS Our findings reveal higher concentrations of PsEVs in AD and MCI compared to AMC (p < 0.0001). Amyloid-β (1-42) expression within PsEVs is significantly elevated in MCI and AD compared to AMC. We could also differentiate between the amyloid-β (1-42) expression in AD and MCI. Similarly, PsEVs-derived p-Tau exhibited elevated expression in MCI compared with AMC, which is further increased in AD. Synaptophysin exhibited downregulated expression in PsEVs from MCI to AD (p = 0.047) compared to AMC, whereas IL-1β, TNF-α, and GFAP showed increased expression in MCI and AD compared to AMC. The correlation between the neuropsychological tests and PsEVs-derived proteins (which included markers for synaptic integrity, neuroinflammation, and disease pathology) was also performed in our study. The increased number of PsEVs correlates with disease pathological markers, synaptic dysfunction, and neuroinflammation. CONCLUSIONS Elevated PsEVs, upregulated amyloid-β (1-42), and p-Tau expression show high diagnostic accuracy in AD. The downregulated synaptophysin expression and upregulated neuroinflammatory markers in AD and MCI patients suggest potential synaptic degeneration and neuroinflammation. These findings support the potential of PsEV-associated biomarkers for AD diagnosis and highlight synaptic dysfunction and neuroinflammation in disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishabh Singh
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Sanskriti Rai
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Prahalad Singh Bharti
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Sadaqa Zehra
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Priya Kumari Gorai
- Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Gyan Prakash Modi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology BHU, Varanasi, India
| | - Neerja Rani
- Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Kapil Dev
- Department of Biotechnology, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Vishnu V Y
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Prasun Chatterjee
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Fredrik Nikolajeff
- Department of Health, Education, and Technology, Lulea University of Technology, Lulea, 97187, Sweden
| | - Saroj Kumar
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India.
- Department of Health, Education, and Technology, Lulea University of Technology, Lulea, 97187, Sweden.
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2
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Kress GT, Popa ES, Merrill DA, Bramen JE, Siddarth P. The impact of physical exercise on hippocampal atrophy in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease: a meta-analysis. Neuroreport 2024; 35:529-535. [PMID: 38606637 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000002037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Physical activity (PA) is a promising therapeutic for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Only a handful of meta-analyses have studied the impact of PA interventions on regional brain volumes, and none to date has solely included studies on effect of PA on regional brain volumes in individuals with cognitive impairment (CI). In this meta-analysis, we examined whether there is support for the hypothesis that PA interventions positively impact hippocampal volume (HV) in individuals with CI. We also assessed whether the level of CI [mild CI (MCI) vs. AD] impacted this relationship. We identified six controlled trials that met inclusion criteria. These included 236 participants with AD, MCI, or preclinical AD. Data were extracted and analyzed following Cochrane guidelines. We used a random-effects model to estimate the mean change in HV pre- and post-exercise intervention. Forest plots, Hedges' g funnel plots, and Egger's test were used to assess unbiasedness and visualize intervention effects, and Tau 2 , Cochran's Q, and I 2 were calculated to assess heterogeneity. The primary analysis revealed a significant positive effect of PA on total HV. However, sub-group analyses indicated a significant preservation of HV only in individuals with MCI, but not in those with AD. Egger's test indicated no evidence of publication bias. Subgroup analyses also revealed significant heterogeneity only within the MCI cohort for the total and left HV. PA demonstrated a moderate, significant effect in preserving HV among individuals with MCI, but not AD, highlighting a therapeutic benefit, particularly in earlier disease stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin T Kress
- Pacific Brain Health Center and Pacific Neuroscience Institute, Santa Monica, California
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Emily S Popa
- Pacific Brain Health Center and Pacific Neuroscience Institute, Santa Monica, California
| | - David A Merrill
- Pacific Brain Health Center and Pacific Neuroscience Institute, Santa Monica, California
- David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles
| | - Jennifer E Bramen
- Pacific Brain Health Center and Pacific Neuroscience Institute, Santa Monica, California
- University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Prabha Siddarth
- Pacific Brain Health Center and Pacific Neuroscience Institute, Santa Monica, California
- David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles
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Ali NH, Al‐Kuraishy HM, Al‐Gareeb AI, Alexiou A, Papadakis M, AlAseeri AA, Alruwaili M, Saad HM, Batiha GE. BDNF/TrkB activators in Parkinson's disease: A new therapeutic strategy. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18368. [PMID: 38752280 PMCID: PMC11096816 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18368] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder of the brain and is manifested by motor and non-motor symptoms because of degenerative changes in dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra. PD neuropathology is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative damage and apoptosis. Thus, the modulation of mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative damage and apoptosis by growth factors could be a novel boulevard in the management of PD. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its receptor tropomyosin receptor kinase type B (TrkB) are chiefly involved in PD neuropathology. BDNF promotes the survival of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and enhances the functional activity of striatal neurons. Deficiency of the TrkB receptor triggers degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and accumulation of α-Syn in the substantia nigra. As well, BDNF/TrkB signalling is reduced in the early phase of PD neuropathology. Targeting of BDNF/TrkB signalling by specific activators may attenuate PD neuropathology. Thus, this review aimed to discuss the potential role of BDNF/TrkB activators against PD. In conclusion, BDNF/TrkB signalling is decreased in PD and linked with disease severity and long-term complications. Activation of BDNF/TrkB by specific activators may attenuate PD neuropathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naif H. Ali
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical CollegeNajran UniversityNajranSaudi Arabia
| | - Hayder M. Al‐Kuraishy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of MedicineMustansiriyah UniversityBaghdadIraq
| | | | - Athanasios Alexiou
- University Centre for Research and Development, Chandigarh UniversityMohaliPunjabIndia
- Department of Research and DevelopmentFunogenAthensGreece
- Department of Research and DevelopmentAFNP MedWienAustria
- Department of Science and EngineeringNovel Global Community Educational FoundationHebershamNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Marios Papadakis
- Department of Surgery IIUniversity Hospital Witten‐Herdecke, University of Witten‐HerdeckeWuppertalGermany
| | - Ali Abdullah AlAseeri
- Department of Internal MedicineCollege of Medicine, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz UniversityAl‐KharjSaudi Arabia
| | - Mubarak Alruwaili
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of MedicineJouf UniversitySakakaSaudi Arabia
| | - Hebatallah M. Saad
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineMatrouh UniversityMatrouhEgypt
| | - Gaber El‐Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineDamanhour UniversityDamanhourEgypt
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Weinstein G, Kojis DJ, Ghosh S, Beiser AS, Seshadri S. Association of Neurotrophic Factors at Midlife With In Vivo Measures of β-Amyloid and Tau Burden 15 Years Later in Dementia-Free Adults. Neurology 2024; 102:e209198. [PMID: 38471064 PMCID: PMC11033983 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000209198] [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: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Neurotrophic factors (NTFs) play an important role in Alzheimer disease (AD) pathophysiology. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are important NTFs. However, a direct link of BDNF and VEGF circulating levels with in vivo measures of amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau burden remains to be elucidated. We explored the relationship of BDNF and VEGF serum levels with future brain Aβ and tau pathology in a cohort of cognitively healthy, predominantly middle-aged adults and tested for possible effect modifications by sex and menopausal status. METHODS This cross-sectional analysis was conducted using data from the Framingham Heart Study (FHS), a community-based cohort study. The study sample included cognitively healthy participants from the FHS Offspring and Third-generation cohorts. BDNF and VEGF were measured in the third-generation cohort during examination cycles 2 (2005-2008) and 1 (2002-2005), respectively, and in the offspring cohort during examination cycle 7 (1998-2001). Participants underwent 11C-Pittsburgh compound B amyloid and 18F-Flortaucipir tau-PET imaging (2015-2021). Linear regression models were used to assess the relationship of serum BDNF and VEGF levels with regional tau and global Aβ, adjusting for potential confounders. Interactions with sex and menopausal status were additionally tested. RESULTS The sample included 414 individuals (mean age = 41 ± 9 years; 51% female). Continuous measures of BDNF and VEGF were associated with tau signal in the rhinal region after adjustment for potential confounders (β = -0.15 ± 0.06, p = 0.018 and β = -0.19 ± 0.09, p = 0.043, respectively). High BDNF (≥32,450 pg/mL) and VEGF (≥488 pg/mL) levels were significantly related to lower rhinal tau (β = -0.27 ± 0.11, p = 0.016 and β = -0.40 ± 0.14, p = 0.004, respectively) and inferior temporal tau (β = -0.24 ± 0.11, p = 0.028 and β = -0.26 ± 0.13, p = 0.049, respectively). The BDNF-rhinal tau association was observed only among male individuals. Overall, BDNF and VEGF were not associated with global amyloid; however, high VEGF levels were associated with lower amyloid burden in postmenopausal women (β = -1.96 ± 0.70, p = 0.013, per 1 pg/mL). DISCUSSION This study demonstrates a robust association between BDNF and VEGF serum levels with in vivo measures of tau almost 2 decades later. These findings add to mounting evidence from preclinical studies suggesting a role of NTFs as valuable blood biomarkers for AD risk prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galit Weinstein
- From the School of Public Health (G.W.), University of Haifa, Israel; Department of Biostatistics (D.J.K., A.S.B.), Boston University School of Public Health, Boston; The Framingham Study (D.J.K., S.G., A.S.B., S.S.); Department of Neurology (S.G., A.S.B., S.S.), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, MA; and Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases (S.S.), University of Texas Health Sciences Center, San Antonio
| | - Daniel J Kojis
- From the School of Public Health (G.W.), University of Haifa, Israel; Department of Biostatistics (D.J.K., A.S.B.), Boston University School of Public Health, Boston; The Framingham Study (D.J.K., S.G., A.S.B., S.S.); Department of Neurology (S.G., A.S.B., S.S.), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, MA; and Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases (S.S.), University of Texas Health Sciences Center, San Antonio
| | - Saptaparni Ghosh
- From the School of Public Health (G.W.), University of Haifa, Israel; Department of Biostatistics (D.J.K., A.S.B.), Boston University School of Public Health, Boston; The Framingham Study (D.J.K., S.G., A.S.B., S.S.); Department of Neurology (S.G., A.S.B., S.S.), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, MA; and Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases (S.S.), University of Texas Health Sciences Center, San Antonio
| | - Alexa S Beiser
- From the School of Public Health (G.W.), University of Haifa, Israel; Department of Biostatistics (D.J.K., A.S.B.), Boston University School of Public Health, Boston; The Framingham Study (D.J.K., S.G., A.S.B., S.S.); Department of Neurology (S.G., A.S.B., S.S.), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, MA; and Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases (S.S.), University of Texas Health Sciences Center, San Antonio
| | - Sudha Seshadri
- From the School of Public Health (G.W.), University of Haifa, Israel; Department of Biostatistics (D.J.K., A.S.B.), Boston University School of Public Health, Boston; The Framingham Study (D.J.K., S.G., A.S.B., S.S.); Department of Neurology (S.G., A.S.B., S.S.), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, MA; and Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases (S.S.), University of Texas Health Sciences Center, San Antonio
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5
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Cruchaga C, Ali M, Shen Y, Do A, Wang L, Western D, Liu M, Beric A, Budde J, Gentsch J, Schindler S, Morris J, Holtzman D, Fernández M, Ruiz A, Alvarez I, Aguilar M, Pastor P, Rutledge J, Oh H, Wilson E, Le Guen Y, Khalid R, Robins C, Pulford D, Ibanez L, Wyss-Coray T, Ju Sung Y. Multi-cohort cerebrospinal fluid proteomics identifies robust molecular signatures for asymptomatic and symptomatic Alzheimer's disease. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-3631708. [PMID: 38410465 PMCID: PMC10896368 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3631708/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Changes in Amyloid-β (A), hyperphosphorylated Tau (T) in brain and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) precedes AD symptoms, making CSF proteome a potential avenue to understand the pathophysiology and facilitate reliable diagnostics and therapies. Using the AT framework and a three-stage study design (discovery, replication, and meta-analysis), we identified 2,173 proteins dysregulated in AD, that were further validated in a third totally independent cohort. Machine learning was implemented to create and validate highly accurate and replicable (AUC>0.90) models that predict AD biomarker positivity and clinical status. These models can also identify people that will convert to AD and those AD cases with faster progression. The associated proteins cluster in four different protein pseudo-trajectories groups spanning the AD continuum and were enrichment in specific pathways including neuronal death, apoptosis and tau phosphorylation (early stages), microglia dysregulation and endolysosomal dysfuncton(mid-stages), brain plasticity and longevity (mid-stages) and late microglia-neuron crosstalk (late stages).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Anh Do
- Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Lihua Wang
- Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Daniel Western
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ignacio Alvarez
- Fundació Docència i Recerca MútuaTerrassa, Terrassa, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Pau Pastor
- University Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol
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6
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Zhao R. Exercise mimetics: a novel strategy to combat neuroinflammation and Alzheimer's disease. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:40. [PMID: 38308368 PMCID: PMC10837901 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03031-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD), characterized by the stimulation of resident immune cells of the brain and the penetration of peripheral immune cells. These inflammatory processes facilitate the deposition of amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques and the abnormal hyperphosphorylation of tau protein. Managing neuroinflammation to restore immune homeostasis and decrease neuronal damage is a therapeutic approach for AD. One way to achieve this is through exercise, which can improve brain function and protect against neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and synaptic dysfunction in AD models. The neuroprotective impact of exercise is regulated by various molecular factors that can be activated in the same way as exercise by the administration of their mimetics. Recent evidence has proven some exercise mimetics effective in alleviating neuroinflammation and AD, and, additionally, they are a helpful alternative option for patients who are unable to perform regular physical exercise to manage neurodegenerative disorders. This review focuses on the current state of knowledge on exercise mimetics, including their efficacy, regulatory mechanisms, progress, challenges, limitations, and future guidance for their application in AD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renqing Zhao
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China.
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7
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Wei M, Wu T, Chen N. Bridging neurotrophic factors and bioactive peptides to Alzheimer's disease. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 94:102177. [PMID: 38142891 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102177] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder. As the demographic shifting towards an aging population, AD has emerged as a prominent public health concern. The pathogenesis of AD is complex, and there are no effective treatment methods for AD until now. In recent years, neurotrophic factors and bioactive peptides including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF), irisin, melatonin, have been discovered to exert neuroprotective functions for AD. Bioactive peptides can be divided into two categories based on their sources: endogenous and exogenous. This review briefly elaborates on the pathogenesis of AD and analyzes the regulatory effects of endogenous and exogenous peptides on the pathogenesis of AD, thereby providing new therapeutic targets for AD and a theoretical basis for the application of bioactive peptides as adjunctive therapies for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minhui Wei
- Tianjiu Research and Development Center for Exercise Nutrition and Foods, Hubei Key Laboratory of Exercise Training and Monitoring, College of Sports Medicine, Wuhan Sports University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Tong Wu
- Tianjiu Research and Development Center for Exercise Nutrition and Foods, Hubei Key Laboratory of Exercise Training and Monitoring, College of Sports Medicine, Wuhan Sports University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Ning Chen
- Tianjiu Research and Development Center for Exercise Nutrition and Foods, Hubei Key Laboratory of Exercise Training and Monitoring, College of Sports Medicine, Wuhan Sports University, Wuhan 430079, China.
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8
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Numakawa T, Kajihara R. An Interaction between Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Stress-Related Glucocorticoids in the Pathophysiology of Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1596. [PMID: 38338875 PMCID: PMC10855648 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031596] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Both the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glucocorticoids (GCs) play multiple roles in various aspects of neurons, including cell survival and synaptic function. BDNF and its receptor TrkB are extensively expressed in neurons of the central nervous system (CNS), and the contribution of the BDNF/TrkB system to neuronal function is evident; thus, its downregulation has been considered to be involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). GCs, stress-related molecules, and glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) are also considered to be associated with AD in addition to mental disorders such as depression. Importantly, a growing body of evidence suggests a close relationship between BDNF/TrkB-mediated signaling and the GCs/GR system in the CNS. Here, we introduce the current studies on the interaction between the neurotrophic system and stress in CNS neurons and discuss their involvement in the pathophysiology of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadahiro Numakawa
- Department of Cell Modulation, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-0811, Japan
| | - Ryutaro Kajihara
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Life Science, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 862-0976, Japan
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9
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Chowdhury MA, Collins JM, Gell DA, Perry S, Breadmore MC, Shigdar S, King AE. Isolation and Identification of the High-Affinity DNA Aptamer Target to the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:346-356. [PMID: 38149631 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are functional oligonucleotide ligands used for the molecular recognition of various targets. The natural characteristics of aptamers make them an excellent alternative to antibodies in diagnostics, therapeutics, and biosensing. DNA aptamers are mainly single-stranded oligonucleotides (ssDNA) that possess a definite binding to targets. However, the application of aptamers to the fields of brain health and neurodegenerative diseases has been limited to date. Herein, a DNA aptamer against the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) protein was obtained by in vitro selection. BDNF is a potential biomarker of brain health and neurodegenerative diseases and has functions in the synaptic plasticity and survival of neurons. We identified eight aptamers that have binding affinity for BDNF from a 50-nucleotide library. Among these aptamers, NV_B12 showed the highest sensitivity and selectivity for detecting BDNF. In an aptamer-linked immobilized sorbent assay (ALISA), the NV_B12 aptamer strongly bound to BDNF protein, in a dose-dependent manner. The dissociation constant (Kd) for NV_B12 was 0.5 nM (95% CI: 0.4-0.6 nM). These findings suggest that BDNF-specific aptamers could be used as an alternative to antibodies in diagnostic and detection assays for BDNF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Anisuzzaman Chowdhury
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool Street, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
| | - Jessica M Collins
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool Street, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
| | - David A Gell
- Menzies Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool Street, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
| | - Sharn Perry
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool Street, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
| | - Michael C Breadmore
- Australian Centre for Research on Separation Science (ACROSS), School of Chemistry, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia
| | - Sarah Shigdar
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria 3220, Australia
| | - Anna E King
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool Street, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
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10
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Xiong HY, Hendrix J, Schabrun S, Wyns A, Campenhout JV, Nijs J, Polli A. The Role of the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Chronic Pain: Links to Central Sensitization and Neuroinflammation. Biomolecules 2024; 14:71. [PMID: 38254671 PMCID: PMC10813479 DOI: 10.3390/biom14010071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is sustained, in part, through the intricate process of central sensitization (CS), marked by maladaptive neuroplasticity and neuronal hyperexcitability within central pain pathways. Accumulating evidence suggests that CS is also driven by neuroinflammation in the peripheral and central nervous system. In any chronic disease, the search for perpetuating factors is crucial in identifying therapeutic targets and developing primary preventive strategies. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) emerges as a critical regulator of synaptic plasticity, serving as both a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator. Mounting evidence supports BDNF's pro-nociceptive role, spanning from its pain-sensitizing capacity across multiple levels of nociceptive pathways to its intricate involvement in CS and neuroinflammation. Moreover, consistently elevated BDNF levels are observed in various chronic pain disorders. To comprehensively understand the profound impact of BDNF in chronic pain, we delve into its key characteristics, focusing on its role in underlying molecular mechanisms contributing to chronic pain. Additionally, we also explore the potential utility of BDNF as an objective biomarker for chronic pain. This discussion encompasses emerging therapeutic approaches aimed at modulating BDNF expression, offering insights into addressing the intricate complexities of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan-Yu Xiong
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (J.H.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (A.P.)
| | - Jolien Hendrix
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (J.H.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (A.P.)
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Environment & Health, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Research Foundation—Flanders (FWO), 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Siobhan Schabrun
- The School of Physical Therapy, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada;
- The Gray Centre for Mobility and Activity, Parkwood Institute, London, ON N6A 4V2, Canada
| | - Arne Wyns
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (J.H.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (A.P.)
| | - Jente Van Campenhout
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (J.H.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (A.P.)
| | - Jo Nijs
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (J.H.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (A.P.)
- Chronic Pain Rehabilitation, Department of Physical Medicine and Physiotherapy, University Hospital Brussels, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Unit of Physiotherapy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 41390 Göterbog, Sweden
| | - Andrea Polli
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (J.H.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (A.P.)
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Environment & Health, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Research Foundation—Flanders (FWO), 1000 Brussels, Belgium
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11
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Asadi MR, Gharesouran J, Sabaie H, Zaboli Mahdiabadi M, Mazhari SA, Sharifi-Bonab M, Shirvani-Farsani Z, Taheri M, Sayad A, Rezazadeh M. Neurotrophin growth factors and their receptors as promising blood biomarkers for Alzheimer's Disease: a gene expression analysis study. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:49. [PMID: 38165481 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08959-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifaceted neurological ailment affecting more than 50 million individuals globally, distinguished by a deterioration in memory and cognitive abilities. Investigating neurotrophin growth factors could offer significant contributions to understanding AD progression and prospective therapeutic interventions. METHODS AND RESULTS The present investigation collected blood samples from 50 patients diagnosed with AD and 50 healthy individuals serving as controls. The mRNA expression levels of neurotrophin growth factors and their receptors were measured using quantitative PCR. A Bayesian regression model was used in the research to assess the relationship between gene expression levels and demographic characteristics such as age and gender. The correlations between variables were analyzed using Spearman correlation coefficients, and the diagnostic potential was assessed using a Receiver Operating Characteristic curve. NTRK2, TrkA, TrkC, and BDNF expression levels were found to be considerably lower (p-value < 0.05) in the blood samples of AD patients compared to the control group. The expression of BDNF exhibited the most substantial decrease in comparison to other neurotrophin growth factors. Correlation analysis indicates a statistically significant positive association between the genes. The ROC analysis showed that BDNF exhibited the greatest Area Under the Curve (AUC) value of 0.76, accompanied by a sensitivity of 70% and specificity of 66%. TrkC, TrkA, and NTRK2 demonstrated considerable diagnostic potential in distinguishing between cases and controls. CONCLUSION The observed decrease in the expression levels of NTRK2, TrkA, TrkC, and BDNF in AD patients, along with the identified associations between specific genes and their diagnostic capacity, indicate that these expressions have the potential to function as biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Asadi
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jalal Gharesouran
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hani Sabaie
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | | | - Mirmohsen Sharifi-Bonab
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zeinab Shirvani-Farsani
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Technology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Arezou Sayad
- Department of Medical Genetics, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maryam Rezazadeh
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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12
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Huang X, Wang J, Zhang S, Zhao X, An R, Lan Y, Yi M, Wan Q. Plasma BDNF/Irisin Ratio Associates with Cognitive Function in Older People. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 99:1261-1271. [PMID: 38788070 DOI: 10.3233/jad-231347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Background Reliable blood biomarkers are crucial for early detection and treatment evaluation of cognitive impairment, including Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Objective To examine whether plasma biomarkers and their combination are different between older people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and cognitively normal individuals, and to explore their relations with cognitive performance. Methods This cross-sectional study included 250 older adults, including 124 participants with MCI, and 126 cognitively normal participants. Plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), irisin and clusterin were measured, and BDNF/irisin ratio was calculated. Global cognition was evaluated by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Results Plasma irisin levels, but not BDNF, were significantly different between MCI group and cognitively normal group. Higher irisin concentration was associated with an increased probability for MCI both before and after controlling covariates. By contrast, plasma BDNF concentration, but not irisin, was linearly correlated with cognitive performance after adjusting for covariates. Higher BDNF/irisin ratios were not only correlated with better cognitive performance, but also associated with lower risks of MCI, no matter whether we adjusted for covariates. Plasma BDNF and irisin concentrations increased with aging, whereas BDNF/irisin ratios remained stable. No significant results of clusterin were observed. Conclusions Plasma BDNF/irisin ratio may be a reliable indicator which not only reflects the odds of the presence of MCI but also directly associates with cognitive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuxiu Huang
- School of Nursing, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaxin Wang
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shifang Zhang
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhao
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ran An
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Lan
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Yi
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education and National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiaoqin Wan
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, China
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13
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Shen R, Ardianto C, Celia C, Sidharta VM, Sasmita PK, Satriotomo I, Turana Y. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor interplay with oxidative stress: neuropathology approach in potential biomarker of Alzheimer's disease. Dement Neuropsychol 2023; 17:e20230012. [PMID: 38053647 PMCID: PMC10695442 DOI: 10.1590/1980-5764-dn-2023-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The aging population poses a serious challenge concerning an increased prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and its impact on global burden, morbidity, and mortality. Oxidative stress, as a molecular hallmark that causes susceptibility in AD, interplays to other AD-related neuropathology cascades and decreases the expression of central and circulation brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), an essential neurotrophin that serves as nerve development and survival, and synaptic plasticity in AD. By its significant correlation with the molecular and clinical progression of AD, BDNF can potentially be used as an objectively accurate biomarker for AD diagnosis and progressivity follow-up in future clinical practice. This comprehensive review highlights the oxidative stress interplay with BDNF in AD neuropathology and its potential use as an AD biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Shen
- Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Christian Ardianto
- Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Celia Celia
- Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Veronika Maria Sidharta
- Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Poppy Kristina Sasmita
- Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Irawan Satriotomo
- University of Florida, Gainesville, Department of Neurology, Florida, USA
- Satriotomo Foundation, Indonesia Neuroscience Institute, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Yuda Turana
- Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Jakarta, Indonesia
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14
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Fioranelli M, Garo ML, Roccia MG, Prizbelek B, Sconci FR. Brain-Heart Axis: Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Cardiovascular Disease-A Review of Systematic Reviews. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2252. [PMID: 38137853 PMCID: PMC10744648 DOI: 10.3390/life13122252] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The brain-heart axis is an intra- and bidirectional complex that links central nervous system dysfunction and cardiac dysfunction. In recent decades, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has emerged as a strategic molecule involved in both brain and cardiovascular disease (CVD). This systematic review of systematic reviews aimed to (1) identify and summarize the evidence for the BDNF genotype and BDNF concentration in CVD risk assessment, (2) evaluate the evidence for the use of BDNF as a biomarker of CVD recovery, and (3) evaluate rehabilitation approaches that can restore BDNF concentration. METHODS A comprehensive search strategy was developed using PRISMA. The risk of bias was assessed via ROBIS. RESULTS Seven studies were identified, most of which aimed to evaluate the role of BDNF in stroke patients. Only two systematic reviews examined the association of BDNF concentration and polymorphism in CVDs other than stroke. CONCLUSIONS The overall evidence showed that BDNF plays a fundamental role in assessing the risk of CVD occurrence, because lower BDNF concentrations and rs6265 polymorphism are often associated with CVD. Nevertheless, much work remains to be carried out in current research to investigate how BDNF is modulated in different cardiovascular diseases and in different populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Fioranelli
- Department of Human Sciences, Guglielmo Marconi University, 00193 Rome, Italy; (M.F.); (M.G.R.)
| | - Maria Luisa Garo
- Istituto Terapie Sistemiche Integrate, Casa di Cura Sanatrix, 00199 Rome, Italy; (B.P.); (F.R.S.)
| | - Maria Grazia Roccia
- Department of Human Sciences, Guglielmo Marconi University, 00193 Rome, Italy; (M.F.); (M.G.R.)
| | - Bianca Prizbelek
- Istituto Terapie Sistemiche Integrate, Casa di Cura Sanatrix, 00199 Rome, Italy; (B.P.); (F.R.S.)
| | - Francesca Romana Sconci
- Istituto Terapie Sistemiche Integrate, Casa di Cura Sanatrix, 00199 Rome, Italy; (B.P.); (F.R.S.)
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15
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Bacopoulou F, Angelopoulos NG, Papadodima S, Apostolaki D, Mantzou A, Koniari E, Efthymiou V, Tsitsika A, Vlachakis D, Charmandari E, Stefanaki C. Serum concentrations of BDNF in adolescents with metabolic syndrome: a case-control study between normal - BMI adolescents and adolescents with obesity. Eur J Pediatr 2023; 182:4595-4603. [PMID: 37548699 PMCID: PMC10587278 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-05129-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) has been linked to various conditions of the cardiovascular and nervous systems. Scarce data exist about the concentrations of BDNF in children and adolescents in relation with obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS). The aim of this study was to examine the serum BDNF concentrations in adolescents with metabolic syndrome and according to their body mass index (BMI) status. This was a case-control study, assessing BDNF concentrations between adolescents with MetS (with obesity vs. normal-BMI), in relation to sex, anthropometric, metabolic and endocrine parameters. Participants included male and female adolescents, whose anthropometric and metabolic panel, as well as serum BDNF concentrations were measured. A total of 59 adolescents (obesity: 29; normal-BMI: 30) were included in the study. Increased serum BDNF concentrations were observed in MetS adolescents with obesity when compared with normal-BMI adolescents (p < 0.001). Males exhibited higher concentrations of BDNF than females (p = 0.045). The sample was further divided into four categories by sex and BMI status, with normal-BMI females exhibiting significantly lower BDNF concentrations than females and males with obesity(p = 0.005). In the entire study sample, serum BDNF concentrations correlated positively with BMI z-scores, however, this statistical significance was preserved only in the females of the sample. No statistical difference was observed between males of different BMI z-scores categories. Conclusion: Obesity appeared as a major factor for increased serum BDNF concentrations in adolescents with MetS (vs. normal-BMI), with a higher impact on BDNF concentrations in females than males. What is Known: • The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is involved in metabolic syndrome in adults but data in adolescents are scarce. What is New: • Obesity (vs. normal BMI) was a major factor for increased serum BDNF in adolescents with metabolic syndrome. • Obesity had a higher impact on BDNF concentrations in females than males with metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flora Bacopoulou
- Center for Adolescent Medicine and UNESCO Chair in Adolescent Health Care, First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, Aghia Sophia Children's Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
- University Research Institute of Maternal and Child Health and Precision Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos G Angelopoulos
- Center for Adolescent Medicine and UNESCO Chair in Adolescent Health Care, First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, Aghia Sophia Children's Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Stavroula Papadodima
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Despoina Apostolaki
- Center for Adolescent Medicine and UNESCO Chair in Adolescent Health Care, First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, Aghia Sophia Children's Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Aimilia Mantzou
- Unit of Clinical and Translational Research in Endocrinology, First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aghia Sophia Childrens Hospital, 1 Thivon Street, Goudi, 115 27, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Koniari
- Unit of Clinical and Translational Research in Endocrinology, First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aghia Sophia Childrens Hospital, 1 Thivon Street, Goudi, 115 27, Athens, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Efthymiou
- University Research Institute of Maternal and Child Health and Precision Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Artemis Tsitsika
- MSc "Strategies of Developmental and Adolescent Health", Second Department of Pediatrics, "P. & A. Kyriakou" Children's Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Vlachakis
- University Research Institute of Maternal and Child Health and Precision Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
- Laboratory of Genetics, Department of Biotechnology, School of Applied Biology and Biotechnology, Agricultural University of Athens, 11855, Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelia Charmandari
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aghia Sophia Children's Hospital, 11527, Athens, Greece
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Center for Clinical, Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Charikleia Stefanaki
- Center for Adolescent Medicine and UNESCO Chair in Adolescent Health Care, First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, Aghia Sophia Children's Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece.
- University Research Institute of Maternal and Child Health and Precision Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece.
- First Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Thivon & Levadeias Str., Goudi, 11527, Athens, Greece.
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16
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Yuan M, Feng Y, Zhao M, Xu T, Li L, Guo K, Hou D. Identification and verification of genes associated with hypoxia microenvironment in Alzheimer's disease. Sci Rep 2023; 13:16252. [PMID: 37759083 PMCID: PMC10533856 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43595-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
As the incidence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) increases year by year, more people begin to study this disease. In recent years, many studies on reactive oxygen species (ROS), neuroinflammation, autophagy, and other fields have confirmed that hypoxia is closely related to AD. However, no researchers have used bioinformatics methods to study the relationship between AD and hypoxia. Therefore, our study aimed to screen the role of hypoxia-related genes in AD and clarify their diagnostic significance. A total of 7681 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in GSE33000 by differential expression analysis and cluster analysis. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to detect 9 modules and 205 hub genes with high correlation coefficients. Next, machine learning algorithms were applied to 205 hub genes and four key genes were selected. Through the verification of external dataset and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), the AD diagnostic model was established by ANTXR2, BDNF and NFKBIA. The bioinformatics analysis results suggest that hypoxia-related genes may increase the risk of AD. However, more in-depth studies are still needed to investigate their association, this article would guide the insights and directions for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyang Yuan
- The Third Xiangya Hospital, Department of Neurology, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China
| | - Yanjin Feng
- The Third Xiangya Hospital, Department of Neurology, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China
| | - Mingri Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Center for Medical Genetics and Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China
| | - Ting Xu
- The Third Xiangya Hospital, Department of Neurology, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China
| | - Liuhong Li
- The Third Xiangya Hospital, Department of Neurology, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China
| | - Ke Guo
- The Third Xiangya Hospital, Department of Neurology, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China
| | - Deren Hou
- The Third Xiangya Hospital, Department of Neurology, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, China.
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Nimgampalle M, Chakravarthy H, Sharma S, Shree S, Bhat AR, Pradeepkiran JA, Devanathan V. Neurotransmitter systems in the etiology of major neurological disorders: Emerging insights and therapeutic implications. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 89:101994. [PMID: 37385351 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Neurotransmitters serve as chemical messengers playing a crucial role in information processing throughout the nervous system, and are essential for healthy physiological and behavioural functions in the body. Neurotransmitter systems are classified as cholinergic, glutamatergic, GABAergic, dopaminergic, serotonergic, histaminergic, or aminergic systems, depending on the type of neurotransmitter secreted by the neuron, allowing effector organs to carry out specific functions by sending nerve impulses. Dysregulation of a neurotransmitter system is typically linked to a specific neurological disorder. However, more recent research points to a distinct pathogenic role for each neurotransmitter system in more than one neurological disorder of the central nervous system. In this context, the review provides recently updated information on each neurotransmitter system, including the pathways involved in their biochemical synthesis and regulation, their physiological functions, pathogenic roles in diseases, current diagnostics, new therapeutic targets, and the currently used drugs for associated neurological disorders. Finally, a brief overview of the recent developments in neurotransmitter-based therapeutics for selected neurological disorders is offered, followed by future perspectives in that area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallikarjuna Nimgampalle
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati (IISER T), Transit campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati 517507, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Harshini Chakravarthy
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati (IISER T), Transit campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati 517507, Andhra Pradesh, India.
| | - Sapana Sharma
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati (IISER T), Transit campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati 517507, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Shruti Shree
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati (IISER T), Transit campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati 517507, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Anoop Ramachandra Bhat
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati (IISER T), Transit campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati 517507, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | | | - Vasudharani Devanathan
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Tirupati (IISER T), Transit campus, Karakambadi Road, Mangalam, Tirupati 517507, Andhra Pradesh, India.
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18
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Kim MS, Kim BY, Kim JI, Lee J, Jeon WK. Mumefural Improves Recognition Memory and Alters ERK-CREB-BDNF Signaling in a Mouse Model of Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion. Nutrients 2023; 15:3271. [PMID: 37513692 PMCID: PMC10383324 DOI: 10.3390/nu15143271] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive impairment resulting from chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) is known as vascular dementia (VaD) and is associated with cerebral atrophy and cholinergic deficiencies. Mumefural (MF), a bioactive compound found in a heated fruit of Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc, was recently found to improve cognitive impairment in a rat CCH model. However, additional evidence is necessary to validate the efficacy of MF administration for treating VaD. Therefore, we evaluated MF effects in a mouse CCH model using unilateral common carotid artery occlusion (UCCAO). Mice were subjected to UCCAO or sham surgery and orally treated with MF daily for 8 weeks. Behavioral tests were used to investigate cognitive function and locomotor activity. Changes in body and brain weights were measured, and levels of hippocampal proteins (brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), cyclic AMP-response element-binding protein (CREB), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE)) were assessed. Additionally, proteomic analysis was conducted to examine the alterations in protein profiles induced by MF treatment. Our study showed that MF administration significantly improved cognitive deficits. Brain atrophy was attenuated and MF treatment reversed the increase in AChE levels. Furthermore, MF significantly upregulated p-ERK/ERK, p-CREB/CREB, and BDNF levels after UCCAO. Thus, MF treatment ameliorates CCH-induced cognitive impairment by regulating ERK/CREB/BDNF signaling, suggesting that MF is a therapeutic candidate for treating CCH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Soo Kim
- KM Convergence Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biohealth Regulatory Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Bu-Yeo Kim
- KM Convergence Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Im Kim
- KM Convergence Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Won Kyung Jeon
- KM Convergence Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
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Kodosaki E, Zetterberg H, Heslegrave A. Validating blood tests as a possible routine diagnostic assay of Alzheimer's disease. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2023; 23:1153-1165. [PMID: 38018372 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2023.2289553] [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: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In recent years, exciting developments in disease modifying treatments for Alzheimer's disease (AD) have made accurate and timely diagnosis of this disease a priority. Blood biomarkers (BBMs) for amyloid pathology using improved immunoassay and mass spectrometry techniques have been an area of intense research for the last 10 years and are coming to the fore, as a real prospect to be used in the clinical diagnostics of the disease. AREAS COVERED The following review will update and discuss blood biomarkers that will be most useful in diagnosing AD and the context necessary for their implementation. EXPERT OPINION It is clear we now have BBMs, and technology to measure them, that are capable of detecting amyloid pathology in AD. The challenge is to validate them across platforms and populations to incorporate them into clinical practice. It is important that implementation comes with education, we need to give clinicians the tools for appropriate use and interpretation. It is feasible that BBMs will be used to screen populations, initially for clinical trial entry but also therapeutic intervention in the foreseeable future. We now need to focus BBM research on other pathologies to ensure we accelerate the development of therapeutics for all neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleftheria Kodosaki
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London, UK
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London, UK
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience & Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology,Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London, UK
- Hong Kong Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China
| | - Amanda Heslegrave
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London, UK
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Corrigan M, O'Rourke A, Moran B, Fletcher J, Harkin A. Inflammation in the pathogenesis of depression: a disorder of neuroimmune origin. Neuronal Signal 2023; 7:NS20220054. [PMID: 37457896 PMCID: PMC10345431 DOI: 10.1042/ns20220054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
There are several hypotheses concerning the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of major depression, which centre largely around adaptive changes in neuronal transmission and plasticity, neurogenesis, and circuit and regional connectivity. The immune and endocrine systems are commonly implicated in driving these changes. An intricate interaction of stress hormones, innate immune cells and the actions of soluble mediators of immunity within the nervous system is described as being associated with the symptoms of depression. Bridging endocrine and immune processes to neurotransmission and signalling within key cortical and limbic brain circuits are critical to understanding depression as a disorder of neuroimmune origins. Emergent areas of research include a growing recognition of the adaptive immune system, advances in neuroimaging techniques and mechanistic insights gained from transgenic animals. Elucidation of glial-neuronal interactions is providing additional avenues into promising areas of research, the development of clinically relevant disease models and the discovery of novel therapies. This narrative review focuses on molecular and cellular mechanisms that are influenced by inflammation and stress. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of our current understanding of depression as a disorder of neuroimmune origin, focusing on neuroendocrine and neuroimmune dysregulation in depression pathophysiology. Advances in current understanding lie in pursuit of relevant biomarkers, as the potential of biomarker signatures to improve clinical outcomes is yet to be fully realised. Further investigations to expand biomarker panels including integration with neuroimaging, utilising individual symptoms to stratify patients into more homogenous subpopulations and targeting the immune system for new treatment approaches will help to address current unmet clinical need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myles Corrigan
- Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
- Transpharmation Ireland, Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aoife M. O'Rourke
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biosciences Institute, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Barry Moran
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biosciences Institute, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jean M. Fletcher
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biosciences Institute, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Andrew Harkin
- Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
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21
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Mohammed SM, Hashim ZH, Hussein MM, Al-Mayah QS. Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels in patients with schizophrenia and methamphetamine addiction: correlation with Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). J Med Life 2023; 16:799-805. [PMID: 37520481 PMCID: PMC10375342 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2022-0250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Methamphetamine use can induce psychosis resembling acute schizophrenia spectrum psychosis, making it challenging to differentiate between the two based on symptoms alone. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) exerts a critical role in hippocampal neural plasticity, influencing critical cognitive functions such as memory and learning. This study aimed to determine the role of serum BDNF levels in schizophrenia and methamphetamine addiction. A case-control study was conducted involving 50 patients with schizophrenia, 50 patients with methamphetamine addiction, and 50 healthy control subjects recruited from Ibn-Rushed Psychiatric Teaching Hospital in Baghdad. Cognitive impairment was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), while serum BDNF levels were measured using ELISA following standardized protocols. The findings revealed significantly lower median levels of BDNF (0.36 pg/ml) in patients with schizophrenia compared to both the control group (0.51 pg/ml) and the methamphetamine group (0.72 pg/ml). Moreover, there was a significant difference observed between the methamphetamine group and the control group. At a cut-off value of BDNF=0.37 pg/ml, the sensitivity and specificity of BDNF in differentiating between schizophrenia and methamphetamine addiction were 84% and 70%, respectively. Serum level of BDNF could be used to differentiate between schizophrenia and methamphetamine addiction when clinical distinctions are challenging to detect.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zainab Hassan Hashim
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
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22
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Pressler SJ, Jung M, Giordani B, Titler MG, Gradus-Pizlo I, Lake KR, Wierenga KL, Clark DG, Perkins SM, Smith DG, Mocci E, Dorsey SG. Evaluating depressive symptoms, BDNF Val66Met, and APOE-ε4 as moderators of response to computerized cognitive training in heart failure. Heart Lung 2023; 59:146-156. [PMID: 36805256 PMCID: PMC10065971 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrtlng.2023.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depressive symptoms, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) Val66Met, and apolipoprotein (APOE)-ε4 may moderate response to computerized cognitive training (CCT) interventions among patients with heart failure (HF). OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to examine moderators of intervention response to CCT over 8 months among patients with HF enrolled in a 3-arm randomized controlled trial. Outcomes were memory, serum BDNF, working memory, instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), and health-related quality of life (HRQL). METHODS 256 patients with HF were randomized to CCT, computerized crossword puzzles active control, and usual care control groups for 8 weeks. Data were collected at enrollment, baseline, 10 weeks, and 4 and 8 months. Mixed effects models were computed to evaluate moderators. RESULTS As previously reported, there were no statistically significant group by time effects in outcomes among the 3 groups over 8 months. Tests of moderation indicated that depressive symptoms and presence of BDNF Val66Met and APOE-ε4 were not statistically significant moderators of intervention response in outcomes of delayed recall memory, serum BDNF, working memory, IADLs, and HRQL. In post hoc analysis evaluating baseline global cognitive function, gender, age, and HF severity as moderators, no significant effects were found. HF severity was imbalanced among groups (P = .049) which may have influenced results. CONCLUSIONS Studies are needed to elucidate biological mechanisms of cognitive dysfunction in HF and test novel interventions to improve memory, serum BDNF, working memory, IADLs and HRQL. Patients may need to be stratified or randomized by HF severity within intervention trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan J Pressler
- Indiana University School of Nursing, 600 Barnhill Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States.
| | - Miyeon Jung
- Indiana University School of Nursing, 600 Barnhill Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States.
| | - Bruno Giordani
- University of Michigan, Michigan Alzheimer's Disease Research Center and Department of Psychiatry, Suite C, 2101 Commonwealth Blvd., Ann Arbor, MI 48105, United States.
| | - Marita G Titler
- University of Michigan School of Nursing, 400 North Ingalls, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5482, United States.
| | - Irmina Gradus-Pizlo
- University of California Irvine School of Medicine, 333 City Blvd, West, Suite 400, Orange, CA 92868-32988, United States.
| | - Kittie Reid Lake
- Indiana University School of Nursing, 600 Barnhill Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Kelly L Wierenga
- Indiana University School of Nursing, 600 Barnhill Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States.
| | - David G Clark
- Indiana University School of Medicine, 355 W. 16th Street, Suite 4020, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States.
| | - Susan M Perkins
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Department of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, 410 West 10th Street, Suite 3000, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States.
| | - Dean G Smith
- Louisiana State University School of Public Health 2020 Gravier Street, 3rd Floor, New Orleans, LA 70112.
| | - Evelina Mocci
- University of Maryland School of Nursing, Department of Pain and Translational Science, 655 West Lombard Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States.
| | - Susan G Dorsey
- University of Maryland School of Nursing, Department of Pain and Translational Science, 655 West Lombard Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States.
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23
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Pisani A, Paciello F, Del Vecchio V, Malesci R, De Corso E, Cantone E, Fetoni AR. The Role of BDNF as a Biomarker in Cognitive and Sensory Neurodegeneration. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13040652. [PMID: 37109038 PMCID: PMC10140880 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13040652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has a crucial function in the central nervous system and in sensory structures including olfactory and auditory systems. Many studies have highlighted the protective effects of BDNF in the brain, showing how it can promote neuronal growth and survival and modulate synaptic plasticity. On the other hand, conflicting data about BDNF expression and functions in the cochlear and in olfactory structures have been reported. Several clinical and experimental research studies showed alterations in BDNF levels in neurodegenerative diseases affecting the central and peripheral nervous system, suggesting that BDNF can be a promising biomarker in most neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, shearing loss, or olfactory impairment. Here, we summarize current research concerning BDNF functions in brain and in sensory domains (olfaction and hearing), focusing on the effects of the BDNF/TrkB signalling pathway activation in both physiological and pathological conditions. Finally, we review significant studies highlighting the possibility to target BDNF as a biomarker in early diagnosis of sensory and cognitive neurodegeneration, opening new opportunities to develop effective therapeutic strategies aimed to counteract neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Pisani
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabiola Paciello
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Del Vecchio
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry-Audiology Section, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Rita Malesci
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry-Audiology Section, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Eugenio De Corso
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Cantone
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry-ENT Section, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Rita Fetoni
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry-Audiology Section, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
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Nikolac Perkovic M, Borovecki F, Filipcic I, Vuic B, Milos T, Nedic Erjavec G, Konjevod M, Tudor L, Mimica N, Uzun S, Kozumplik O, Svob Strac D, Pivac N. Relationship between Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Cognitive Decline in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13030570. [PMID: 36979505 PMCID: PMC10046678 DOI: 10.3390/biom13030570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, increasing evidence has emerged linking alterations in the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression with the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Because of the important role of BDNF in cognition and its association with AD pathogenesis, the aim of this study was to evaluate the potential difference in plasma BDNF concentrations between subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI; N = 209) and AD patients (N = 295) and to determine the possible association between BDNF plasma levels and the degree of cognitive decline in these individuals. The results showed a significantly higher (p < 0.001) concentration of plasma BDNF in subjects with AD (1.16; 0.13-21.34) compared with individuals with MCI (0.68; 0.02-19.14). The results of the present study additionally indicated a negative correlation between cognitive functions and BDNF plasma concentrations, suggesting higher BDNF levels in subjects with more pronounced cognitive decline. The correlation analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between BDNF plasma levels and both Mini-Mental State Examination (p < 0.001) and Clock Drawing test (p < 0.001) scores. In conclusion, the results of our study point towards elevated plasma BDNF levels in AD patients compared with MCI subjects, which may be due to the body's attempt to counteract the early and middle stages of neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matea Nikolac Perkovic
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruder Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Fran Borovecki
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Igor Filipcic
- Psychiatric Hospital "Sveti Ivan", 10090 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Barbara Vuic
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruder Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tina Milos
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruder Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Gordana Nedic Erjavec
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruder Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marcela Konjevod
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruder Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lucija Tudor
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruder Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ninoslav Mimica
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department for Biological Psychiatry and Psychogeriatrics, University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, 10090 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Suzana Uzun
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department for Biological Psychiatry and Psychogeriatrics, University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, 10090 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Oliver Kozumplik
- Department for Biological Psychiatry and Psychogeriatrics, University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, 10090 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dubravka Svob Strac
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruder Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nela Pivac
- Laboratory for Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruder Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- University of Applied Sciences Hrvatsko Zagorje Krapina, 49000 Krapina, Croatia
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25
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Brenner EK, Weigand AJ, Edwards L, Thomas KR, Edmonds EC, Bondi MW, Bangen KJ. Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor Interacts with White Matter Hyperintensities to Influence Processing Speed and Hippocampal Volume in Older Adults. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 93:141-149. [PMID: 36970903 DOI: 10.3233/jad-221178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin that plays an important role in regulating synaptic activity and plasticity. OBJECTIVE Given that type-2 diabetes (T2DM) increases the risk of cognitive decline, and studies have suggested lower BDNF levels may be a risk factor of diabetic neurovascular complications, we sought to investigate total white matter hyperintensities (WMH) as a moderator of the effect of BDNF on hippocampal volume and cognition. METHODS Older adults without dementia from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (N = 454 including 49 with T2DM and 405 without diabetes) underwent neuropsychological evaluation, magnetic resonance imaging to quantify hippocampal and WMH volumes, and blood draw to assess BDNF. RESULTS Adjusting for age, sex, and APOE ɛ4 carrier status, there was a significant interaction between total WMH and BDNF on bilateral hippocampal volume in the non-T2DM group (t = 2.63, p = 0.009). Examination of main effect models with a dichotomous high/low BNDF group revealed a significant main effect for low BDNF (t = -4.98, p < 0.001), such that as WMH increased, bilateral hippocampal volume decreased. There was also a significant interaction between total WMH and BDNF on processing speed in the non-T2DM group (t = 2.91, p = 0.004). There was a significant main effect for low BDNF (t = -3.55, p < 0.001) such that as WMH increased, processing speed decreased. The interactions were not significant in the T2DM group. CONCLUSION These results further elucidate the protective role that BDNF plays on cognition, as well as the cognitive effects of WMH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Einat K Brenner
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Alexandra J Weigand
- San Diego State University/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Lauren Edwards
- San Diego State University/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Kelsey R Thomas
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Mark W Bondi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Katherine J Bangen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
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26
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Kim YK, Jung YS, Song J. Transcriptome Profile in the Mouse Brain of Hepatic Encephalopathy and Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010675. [PMID: 36614117 PMCID: PMC9821016 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010675] [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: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a chronic metabolic disease accompanied by neuropathological and neuropsychiatric features, including memory deficits, psychomotor dysfunction, depression, and anxiety. Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common neurodegenerative disease, is characterized by tau hyperphosphorylation, excessive amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation, the formation of fibrillary tangles, hippocampus atrophy, and neuroinflammation. Recent studies have suggested a positive correlation between HE and AD. Some studies reported that an impaired cholesterol pathway, abnormal bile acid secretion, excessive ammonia level, impaired Aβ clearance, astrocytic dysfunction, and abnormal γ-aminobutyric acid GABAergic neuronal signaling in HE may also be involved in AD pathology. However, the mechanisms and related genes involved in AD-like pathology in the HE brain are unclear. Thus, we compared the cortical transcriptome profile between an HE mouse model, bile duct ligation (BDL), and an AD mouse model, the 5×FAD. Our study showed that the expression of many genes implicated in HE is associated with neuronal dysfunction in AD mice. We found changes in various protein-coding RNAs, implicated in synapses, neurogenesis, neuron projection, neuron differentiation, and neurite outgrowth, and non-coding RNAs possibly associated with neuropathology. Our data provide an important resource for further studies to elucidate AD-like pathophysiology in HE patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Kook Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun 58128, Jeollanam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Seok Jung
- Department of Anatomy, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun 58128, Jeollanam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Juhyun Song
- Department of Anatomy, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun 58128, Jeollanam-do, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-61-379-2706; Fax: +82-61-375-5834
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27
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Lim J, Kim S, Lee C, Park J, Yang G, Yook T. Verbenalin Reduces Amyloid-Beta Peptide Generation in Cellular and Animal Models of Alzheimer's Disease. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27248678. [PMID: 36557811 PMCID: PMC9781082 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27248678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Verbenalin, among the major constituents of Verbena officinalis, has been reported to exhibit sleep-promoting and antioxidant activities. This study demonstrates the effects of verbenalin on amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptide generation in Swedish mutant amyloid precursor protein (APP)-overexpressing Neuro2a cells (SweAPP/N2a) and in Alzheimer's disease (AD) animal models. We further performed molecular biological analyses of these in vitro and in vivo models of AD. The effects of verbenalin were assessed based on the expression of factors related to Aβ peptide production using Western blotting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and immunohistochemistry (IHC). The intracellular expression and release of APP protein were both decreased by verbenalin treatment in SweAPP/N2a cells. Thus, the production of Aβ peptides was decreased. Compared to those in AD transgenic (Tg) mice, IHC revealed that verbenalin-treated animals showed decreased Aβ and tau expression levels in the hippocampus. In addition, verbenalin restored the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus of AD animal models. These findings suggest that verbenalin may decrease Aβ formation both in vitro and in vivo. Verbenalin may also help improve the pathological hallmarks of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juhee Lim
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Woosuk University, Wanju 55338, Republic of Korea
| | - Seokhee Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Woosuk University, Jeonju 54986, Republic of Korea
| | - Changhyun Lee
- College of Korean Medicine, Woosuk University, Jeonju 54986, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongwoo Park
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Gabsik Yang
- College of Korean Medicine, Woosuk University, Jeonju 54986, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (G.Y.); (T.Y.); Tel.: +82-63-220-8625 (T.Y.); Fax: +82-63-220-8400 (T.Y.)
| | - Taehan Yook
- College of Korean Medicine, Woosuk University, Jeonju 54986, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (G.Y.); (T.Y.); Tel.: +82-63-220-8625 (T.Y.); Fax: +82-63-220-8400 (T.Y.)
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28
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Gene- and Gender-Related Decrease in Serum BDNF Levels in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314599. [PMID: 36498925 PMCID: PMC9740390 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314599] [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: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has a protective role in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines are potentially implicated in AD risk. In this study, BDNF was detected in serum of AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients and investigated in association with gene polymorphisms of BDNF (Val66Met and C270T), of some oxidative stress-related genes (FOXO3A, SIRT3, GLO1, and SOD2), and of interleukin-1 family genes (IL-1α, IL-1β, and IL-38). The APOE status and mini-mental state examination (MMSE) score were also evaluated. Serum BDNF was significantly lower in AD (p = 0.029), especially when comparing the female subsets (p = 0.005). Patients with BDNFVal/Val homozygous also had significantly lower circulating BDNF compared with controls (p = 0.010). Moreover, lower BDNF was associated with the presence of the T mutant allele of IL-1α(rs1800587) in AD (p = 0.040). These results were even more significant in the female subsets (BDNFVal/Val, p = 0.001; IL-1α, p = 0.013; males: ns). In conclusion, reduced serum levels of BDNF were found in AD; polymorphisms of the IL-1α and BDNF genes appear to be involved in changes in serum BDNF, particularly in female patients, while no effects of other gene variants affecting oxidative stress have been found. These findings add another step in identifying gender-related susceptibility to AD.
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Qian F, Liu J, Yang H, Zhu H, Wang Z, Wu Y, Cheng Z. Association of plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor with Alzheimer's disease and its influencing factors in Chinese elderly population. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:987244. [PMID: 36425322 PMCID: PMC9680530 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.987244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the association of plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels with Alzheimer's disease and its influencing factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 1,615 participants were included in the present study. Among all subjects, 660 were cognitive normal controls (CNCs), 571 were mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients, and 384 were dementia with Alzheimer's type (DAT) patients. BDNF in blood samples collected from these subjects was analyzed via the Luminex assay. Additionally, DNA extraction and APOE4 genotyping were performed on leukocytes using a blood genotyping DNA extraction kit. All data were processed with SPSS 20.0 software. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) or analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to compare differences among groups on plasma BDNF. Pearson and Spearman correlation analysis examined the correlation between BDNF and cognitive impairment, and linear regression analysis examined the comprehensive effects of diagnosis, gender, age, education, and sample source on BDNF. RESULTS BDNF levels in DAT patients were higher than those in CNC and MCI patients (P < 0.01). BDNF levels were significantly correlated with CDR, MMSE, and clinical diagnosis (P < 0.001). Age, education, occupation, and sample source had significant effects on BDNF differences among the CNC, MCI, and DAT groups (P < 0.001). BDNF first decreased and then increased with cognitive impairment in the ApoE4-negative group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Plasma BDNF levels decreased in the MCI stage and increased in the dementia stage and were affected by age, education, occupation, and sample source. Unless the effects of sample heterogeneity and methodological differences can be excluded, plasma BDNF is difficult to become a biomarker for the early screening and diagnosis of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuqiang Qian
- The Affiliated Wuxi Mental Health Center of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Central Rehabilitation Hospital, Wuxi, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Hangzhou Seventh People’s Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hongyu Yang
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Haohao Zhu
- The Affiliated Wuxi Mental Health Center of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Central Rehabilitation Hospital, Wuxi, China
| | - Zhiqiang Wang
- The Affiliated Wuxi Mental Health Center of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Central Rehabilitation Hospital, Wuxi, China
| | - Yue Wu
- The Affiliated Wuxi Mental Health Center of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Central Rehabilitation Hospital, Wuxi, China
| | - Zaohuo Cheng
- The Affiliated Wuxi Mental Health Center of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Central Rehabilitation Hospital, Wuxi, China
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30
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Traylor MK, Bauman AJ, Saiyasit N, Frizell CA, Hill BD, Nelson AR, Keller JL. An examination of the relationship among plasma brain derived neurotropic factor, peripheral vascular function, and body composition with cognition in midlife African Americans/Black individuals. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:980561. [PMID: 36092801 PMCID: PMC9453229 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.980561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
African American/Black individuals have been excluded from several lines of prominent neuroscience research, despite exhibiting disproportionately higher risk factors associated with the onset and magnitude of neurodegeneration. Therefore, the objective of the current investigation was to examine potential relationships among brain derived neurotropic factor (BDNF), peripheral vascular function, and body composition with cognition in a sample of midlife, African American/Black individuals. Midlife adults (men: n = 3, 60 ± 4 years; women: n = 9, 58 ± 5 years) were invited to complete two baseline visits separated by 4 weeks. Peripheral vascular function was determined by venous occlusion plethysmography, a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was used to determine body composition, and plasma was collected to quantify BDNF levels. The CNS Vital Signs computer-based test was used to provide scores on numerous cognitive domains. The principal results included that complex attention (r = 0.629) and processing speed (r = 0.734) were significantly (p < 0.05) related to the plasma BDNF values. However, there was no significant (p > 0.05) relationship between any vascular measure and any cognitive domain or BDNF value. Secondary findings included the relationship between lean mass and peak hyperemia (r = 0.758) as well as total hyperemia (r = 0.855). The major conclusion derived from these results was that there is rationale for future clinical trials to use interventions targeting increasing BDNF to potentially improve cognition. Additionally, these results strongly suggest that clinicians aiming to improve cognitive health via improvements in the known risk factor of vascular function should consider interventions capable of promoting the size and function of skeletal muscle, especially in the African American/Black population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda K. Traylor
- Integrative Laboratory of Exercise and Applied Physiology (iLEAP), Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Sport, College of Education and Professional Studies, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Allison J. Bauman
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Napatsorn Saiyasit
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Carl A. Frizell
- Physician Assistant Sciences Program, School of Graduate Studies and Research, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Benjamin D. Hill
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Amy R. Nelson
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Joshua L. Keller
- Integrative Laboratory of Exercise and Applied Physiology (iLEAP), Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Sport, College of Education and Professional Studies, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
- *Correspondence: Joshua L. Keller, @joshkeller10
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Asadi MR, Talebi M, Gharesouran J, Sabaie H, Jalaiei A, Arsang-Jang S, Taheri M, Sayad A, Rezazadeh M. Analysis of ROQUIN, Tristetraprolin (TTP), and BDNF/miR-16/TTP regulatory axis in late onset Alzheimer’s disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:933019. [PMID: 36016853 PMCID: PMC9397504 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.933019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a heterogeneous degenerative disorder of the brain that is on the rise worldwide. One of the critical processes that might be disturbed in AD is gene expression regulation. Tristetraprolin (TTP) and RC3H1 gene (ROQUIN) are two RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) that target AU-rich elements (AREs) and constitutive decay elements (CDEs), respectively. TTP and ROQUIN, members of the CCCH zinc-finger protein family, have been demonstrated to fine-tune numerous inflammatory factors. In addition, miR-16 has distinct characteristics and may influence the target mRNA through the ARE site. Interestingly, BDNF mRNA has ARE sites in the 3’ untranslated region (UTR) and can be targeted by regulatory factors, such as TTP and miR-16 on MRE sequences, forming BDNF/miR-16/TTP regulatory axis. A number of two microarray datasets were downloaded, including information on mRNAs (GSE106241) and miRNAs (GSE157239) from individuals with AD and corresponding controls. R software was used to identify BDNF, TTP, ROQUIN, and miR-16 expression levels in temporal cortex (TC) tissue datasets. Q-PCR was also used to evaluate the expression of these regulatory factors and the expression of BDNF in the blood of 50 patients with AD and 50 controls. Bioinformatic evaluation showed that TTP and miR-16 overexpression might act as post-transcriptional regulatory factors to control BDNF expression in AD in TC samples. Instead, this expression pattern was not found in peripheral blood samples from patients with AD compared to normal controls. ROQUIN expression was increased in the peripheral blood of patients with AD. Hsa-miR-16-5p levels did not show significant differences in peripheral blood samples. Finally, it was shown that TTP and BDNF, based on evaluating the receiver operating characteristic (ROC), effectively identify patients with AD from healthy controls. This study could provide a new perspective on the molecular regulatory processes associated with AD pathogenic mechanisms linked to the BDNF growth factor, although further research is needed on the possible roles of these factors in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Asadi
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Talebi
- Neurosciences Research Center (NSRC), Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jalal Gharesouran
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hani Sabaie
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Abbas Jalaiei
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shahram Arsang-Jang
- Cancer Gene Therapy Research Center, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Arezou Sayad
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- *Correspondence: Arezou Sayad,
| | - Maryam Rezazadeh
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Maryam Rezazadeh,
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Azman KF, Zakaria R. Recent Advances on the Role of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23126827. [PMID: 35743271 PMCID: PMC9224343 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophins, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), are essential for neuronal survival and growth. The signaling cascades initiated by BDNF and its receptor are the key regulators of synaptic plasticity, which plays important role in learning and memory formation. Changes in BDNF levels and signaling pathways have been identified in several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease, and have been linked with the symptoms and course of these diseases. This review summarizes the current understanding of the role of BDNF in several neurodegenerative diseases, as well as the underlying molecular mechanism. The therapeutic potential of BDNF treatment is also discussed, in the hope of discovering new avenues for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Brain-Derived Neurotropic Factor in Neurodegenerative Disorders. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10051143. [PMID: 35625880 PMCID: PMC9138678 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10051143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, neurodegenerative diseases cause a significant degree of disability and distress. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), primarily found in the brain, has a substantial role in the development and maintenance of various nerve roles and is associated with the family of neurotrophins, including neuronal growth factor (NGF), neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) and neurotrophin-4/5 (NT-4/5). BDNF has affinity with tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrKB), which is found in the brain in large amounts and is expressed in several cells. Several studies have shown that decrease in BDNF causes an imbalance in neuronal functioning and survival. Moreover, BDNF has several important roles, such as improving synaptic plasticity and contributing to long-lasting memory formation. BDNF has been linked to the pathology of the most common neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. This review aims to describe recent efforts to understand the connection between the level of BDNF and neurodegenerative diseases. Several studies have shown that a high level of BDNF is associated with a lower risk for developing a neurodegenerative disease.
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Martínez-Iglesias O, Naidoo V, Carrera I, Cacabelos R. Epigenetic Studies in the Male APP/BIN1/COPS5 Triple-Transgenic Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2446. [PMID: 35269588 PMCID: PMC8909965 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a major health problem worldwide. The lack of efficacy of existing therapies for AD is because of diagnosis at late stages of the disease, limited knowledge of biomarkers, and molecular mechanisms of AD pathology, as well as conventional drugs that are focused on symptomatic rather than mechanistic features of the disease. The connection between epigenetics and AD, however, may be useful for the development of novel therapeutics or diagnostic biomarkers for AD. The aim of this study was to investigate a pathogenic role for epigenetics and other biomarkers in the male APP/BIN1/COPS5 triple-transgenic (3xTg) mouse model of AD. In the APP/BIN1/COPS5 3xTg-AD mouse hippocampus, sirtuin expression and activity decreased, HDAC3 expression and activity increased, PSEN1 mRNA levels were unchanged, PSEN2 and APOE expression was reduced, and levels of the pro-inflammatory marker IL-6 increased; levels of pro-inflammatory COX-2 and TNFα and apoptotic (NOS3) markers increased slightly, but these were non-significant. In fixed mouse-brain slices, immunoreactivity for CD11b and β-amyloid immunostaining increased. APP/BIN1/COPS5 3xTg-AD mice are a suitable model for evaluating epigenetic changes in AD, the discovery of new epigenetic-related biomarkers for AD diagnosis, and new epidrugs for the treatment of this neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olaia Martínez-Iglesias
- EuroEspes Biomedical Research Center, International Center of Neuroscience and Genomic Medicine, 15165 Corunna, Spain; (V.N.); (I.C.); (R.C.)
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Cade S, Zhou XF, Bobrovskaya L. The role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and the neurotrophin receptor p75NTR in age-related brain atrophy and the transition to Alzheimer's disease. Rev Neurosci 2022; 33:515-529. [PMID: 34982865 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2021-0111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative condition that is potentially mediated by synaptic dysfunction before the onset of cognitive impairments. The disease mostly affects elderly people and there is currently no therapeutic which halts its progression. One therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease is to regenerate lost synapses by targeting mechanisms involved in synaptic plasticity. This strategy has led to promising drug candidates in clinical trials, but further progress needs to be made. An unresolved problem of Alzheimer's disease is to identify the molecular mechanisms that render the aged brain susceptible to synaptic dysfunction. Understanding this susceptibility may identify drug targets which could halt, or even reverse, the disease's progression. Brain derived neurotrophic factor is a neurotrophin expressed in the brain previously implicated in Alzheimer's disease due to its involvement in synaptic plasticity. Low levels of the protein increase susceptibility to the disease and post-mortem studies consistently show reductions in its expression. A desirable therapeutic approach for Alzheimer's disease is to stimulate the expression of brain derived neurotrophic factor and potentially regenerate lost synapses. However, synthesis and secretion of the protein are regulated by complex activity-dependent mechanisms within neurons, which makes this approach challenging. Moreover, the protein is synthesised as a precursor which exerts the opposite effect of its mature form through the neurotrophin receptor p75NTR. This review will evaluate current evidence on how age-related alterations in the synthesis, processing and signalling of brain derived neurotrophic factor may increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaun Cade
- Health and Biomedical Innovation, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Xin-Fu Zhou
- Health and Biomedical Innovation, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Larisa Bobrovskaya
- Health and Biomedical Innovation, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
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Alvarez XA, Winston CN, Barlow JW, Sarsoza FM, Alvarez I, Aleixandre M, Linares C, García-Fantini M, Kastberger B, Winter S, Rissman RA. Modulation of Amyloid-β and Tau in Alzheimer's Disease Plasma Neuronal-Derived Extracellular Vesicles by Cerebrolysin® and Donepezil. J Alzheimers Dis 2022; 90:705-717. [PMID: 36155516 PMCID: PMC9697063 DOI: 10.3233/jad-220575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasma neuronal-derived extracellular vesicles (NDEV) contain proteins of pathological, diagnostic, and therapeutic relevance. OBJECTIVE We investigated the associations of six plasma NDEV markers with Alzheimer's disease (AD) severity, cognition and functioning, and changes in these biomarkers after Cerebrolysin®, donepezil, and a combination therapy in AD. METHODS Plasma NDEV levels of Aβ42, total tau, P-T181-tau, P-S393-tau, neurogranin, and REST were determined in: 1) 116 mild to advanced AD patients and in 20 control subjects; 2) 110 AD patients treated with Cerebrolysin®, donepezil, or combination therapy in a randomized clinical trial (RCT). Samples for NDEV determinations were obtained at baseline in the NDEV study and at baseline and study endpoint in the RCT. Cognition and functioning were assessed at the same time points. RESULTS NDEV levels of Aβ42, total tau, P-T181-tau, and P-S393-tau were higher and those of neurogranin and REST were lower in mild-to-moderate AD than in controls (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). NDEV total tau, neurogranin, and REST increased with AD severity (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). NDEV Aβ42 and P-T181-tau correlated negatively with serum BDNF (p < 0.05), and total-tau levels were associated to plasma TNF-α (p < 0.01) and cognitive impairment (p < 0.05). Combination therapy reduced NDEV Aβ42 with respect to monotherapies (p < 0.05); and NDEV total tau, P-T181-tau, and P-S396-tau were decreased in Cerebrolysin-treated patients compared to those on donepezil monotherapy (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION The present results demonstrate the utility of NDEV determinations of pathologic and synaptic proteins as effective AD biomarkers, as markers of AD severity, and as potential tools for monitoring the effects of anti-AD drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- X. Anton Alvarez
- Medinova Institute of Neurosciences, Clinica Reha Salud, A Coruña, Spain
- Clinical Research Department, QPS Holdings, A Coruña, Spain
| | | | - James W. Barlow
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Floyd M. Sarsoza
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Irene Alvarez
- Medinova Institute of Neurosciences, Clinica Reha Salud, A Coruña, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Robert A. Rissman
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
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Speers AB, García-Jaramillo M, Feryn A, Matthews DG, Lichtenberg T, Caruso M, Wright KM, Quinn JF, Stevens JF, Maier CS, Soumyanath A, Gray NE. Centella asiatica Alters Metabolic Pathways Associated With Alzheimer's Disease in the 5xFAD Mouse Model of ß-Amyloid Accumulation. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:788312. [PMID: 34975484 PMCID: PMC8717922 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.788312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Centella asiatica is an herb used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for its beneficial effects on brain health and cognition. Our group has previously shown that a water extract of Centella asiatica (CAW) elicits cognitive-enhancing effects in animal models of aging and Alzheimer's disease, including a dose-related effect of CAW on memory in the 5xFAD mouse model of ß-amyloid accumulation. Here, we endeavor to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the effects of CAW in the brain by conducting a metabolomic analysis of cortical tissue from 5xFAD mice treated with increasing concentrations of CAW. Tissue was collected from 8-month-old male and female 5xFAD mice and their wild-type littermates treated with CAW (0, 200, 500, or 1,000 mg/kg/d) dissolved in their drinking water for 5 weeks. High-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry analysis was performed and relative levels of 120 annotated metabolites were assessed in the treatment groups. Metabolomic analysis revealed sex differences in the effect of the 5xFAD genotype on metabolite levels compared to wild-type mice, and variations in the metabolomic response to CAW depending on sex, genotype, and CAW dose. In at least three of the four treated groups (5xFAD or wild-type, male or female), CAW (500 mg/kg/d) significantly altered metabolic pathways related to purine metabolism, nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism, and glycerophospholipid metabolism. The results are in line with some of our previous findings regarding specific mechanisms of action of CAW (e.g., improving mitochondrial function, reducing oxidative stress, and increasing synaptic density). Furthermore, these findings provide new information about additional, potential mechanisms for the cognitive-enhancing effect of CAW, including upregulation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide in the brain and modulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor. These metabolic pathways have been implicated in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease, highlighting the therapeutic potential of CAW in this neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex B. Speers
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Manuel García-Jaramillo
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Alicia Feryn
- OHSU-PSU School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Donald G. Matthews
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Talia Lichtenberg
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Maya Caruso
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Kirsten M. Wright
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Joseph F. Quinn
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Parkinson’s Disease Research Education and Clinical Care Center, Veterans’ Administration Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Jan F. Stevens
- Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Claudia S. Maier
- Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Amala Soumyanath
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Nora E. Gray
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
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