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Ruttenberg SM, Nowick JS. A turn for the worse: Aβ β-hairpins in Alzheimer's disease. Bioorg Med Chem 2024; 105:117715. [PMID: 38615460 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2024.117715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Amyloid-β (Aβ) oligomers are a cause of neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD). These soluble aggregates of the Aβ peptide have proven difficult to study due to their inherent metastability and heterogeneity. Strategies to isolate and stabilize homogenous Aβ oligomer populations have emerged such as mutations, covalent cross-linking, and protein fusions. These strategies along with molecular dynamics simulations have provided a variety of proposed structures of Aβ oligomers, many of which consist of molecules of Aβ in β-hairpin conformations. β-Hairpins are intramolecular antiparallel β-sheets composed of two β-strands connected by a loop or turn. Three decades of research suggests that Aβ peptides form several different β-hairpin conformations, some of which are building blocks of toxic Aβ oligomers. The insights from these studies are currently being used to design anti-Aβ antibodies and vaccines to treat AD. Research suggests that antibody therapies designed to target oligomeric Aβ may be more successful at treating AD than antibodies designed to target linear epitopes of Aβ or fibrillar Aβ. Aβ β-hairpins are good epitopes to use in antibody development to selectively target oligomeric Aβ. This review summarizes the research on β-hairpins in Aβ peptides and discusses the relevance of this conformation in AD pathogenesis and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Ruttenberg
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697-2025, United States
| | - James S Nowick
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697-2025, United States.
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2
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Geerts H, Bergeler S, Walker M, Rose RH, van der Graaf PH. Quantitative systems pharmacology-based exploration of relevant anti-amyloid therapy challenges in clinical practice. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (NEW YORK, N. Y.) 2024; 10:e12474. [PMID: 38774587 PMCID: PMC11106679 DOI: 10.1002/trc2.12474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Addressing practical challenges in clinical practice after the recent approvals of amyloid antibodies in Alzheimer's disease (AD) will benefit more patients. However, generating these answers using clinical trials or real-world evidence is not practical, nor feasible. METHODS Here we use a Quantitative Systems Pharmacology (QSP) computational model of amyloid aggregation dynamics, well validated with clinical data on biomarkers and amyloid-related imaging abnormality-edema (ARIA-E) liability of six amyloid antibodies in clinical trials to explore various clinical practice challenges. RESULTS Treatment duration to reach amyloid negativity ranges from 12 to 44, 16 to 40, and 6 to 20 months for lecanemab, aducanumab, and donanemab, respectively, for baseline central amyloid values between 50 and 200 Centiloids (CL). Changes in plasma cerebrospinal fluid Aβ42 and the plasma Aβ42/ Aβ40 ratio-fluid biomarkers to detect central amyloid negativity-is greater for lecanemab than for aducanumab and donanemab, indicating that these fluid amyloid biomarkers are only suitable for lecanemab. After reaching amyloid negativity an optimal maintenance schedule consists of a 24-month, 48-month and 64-month interval for 10 mg/kg (mpk) lecanemab, 10 mpk aducanumab, and 20 mpk donanemab, respectively, to keep central amyloid negative for 10 years. Cumulative ARIA-E liability could be reduced to almost half by introducing a drug holiday in the first months. For patients experiencing ARIA-E, restarting treatment with a conservative titration strategy resulted in an additional delay ranging between 3 and 4 months (donanemab), 5 months (lecanemab), and up to 7 months (aducanumab) for reaching amyloid negativity, depending upon the timing of the incident. Clinical trial designs for Down syndrome patients suggested the same rank order for central amyloid reduction, but higher ARIA-E liability especially for donanemab, which can be significantly mitigated by adopting a longer titration period. DISCUSSION This QSP platform could support clinical practice challenges to optimize real-world treatment paradigms for new and existing amyloid drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Geerts
- Certara Predictive TechnologiesBerwynPennsylvaniaUSA
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3
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Liu P, Lapcinski IP, Hlynialuk CJ, Steuer EL, Loude TJ, Shapiro SL, Kemper LJ, Ashe KH. Aβ∗56 is a stable oligomer that impairs memory function in mice. iScience 2024; 27:109239. [PMID: 38433923 PMCID: PMC10905009 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyloid-β (Aβ) oligomers consist of fibrillar and non-fibrillar soluble assemblies of the Aβ peptide. Aβ∗56 is a non-fibrillar Aβ assembly that is linked to memory deficits. Previous studies did not decipher specific forms of Aβ present in Aβ∗56. Here, we confirmed the memory-impairing characteristics of Aβ∗56 and extended its biochemical characterization. We used anti-Aβ(1-x), anti-Aβ(x-40), anti-Aβ(x-42), and A11 anti-oligomer antibodies in conjunction with western blotting, immunoaffinity purification, and size-exclusion chromatography to probe aqueous brain extracts from Tg2576, 5xFAD, and APP/TTA mice. In Tg2576, Aβ∗56 is a ∼56-kDa, SDS-stable, A11-reactive, non-plaque-dependent, water-soluble, brain-derived oligomer containing canonical Aβ(1-40). In 5xFAD, Aβ∗56 is composed of Aβ(1-42), whereas in APP/TTA, it contains both Aβ(1-40) and Aβ(1-42). When injected into the hippocampus of wild-type mice, Aβ∗56 derived from Tg2576 mice impairs memory. The unusual stability of this oligomer renders it an attractive candidate for studying relationships between molecular structure and effects on brain function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Liu
- N. Bud Grossman Center for Memory Research and Care, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Ian P. Lapcinski
- N. Bud Grossman Center for Memory Research and Care, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Chris J.W. Hlynialuk
- N. Bud Grossman Center for Memory Research and Care, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Elizabeth L. Steuer
- N. Bud Grossman Center for Memory Research and Care, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Thomas J. Loude
- N. Bud Grossman Center for Memory Research and Care, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Samantha L. Shapiro
- N. Bud Grossman Center for Memory Research and Care, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Lisa J. Kemper
- N. Bud Grossman Center for Memory Research and Care, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Karen H. Ashe
- N. Bud Grossman Center for Memory Research and Care, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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4
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Kreutzer AG, Malonis RJ, Parrocha CMT, Tong K, Guaglianone G, Nguyen JT, Diab MN, Lai JR, Nowick JS. Generation and Study of Antibodies against Two Triangular Trimers Derived from Aβ. Pept Sci (Hoboken) 2024; 116:e24333. [PMID: 38644932 PMCID: PMC11029597 DOI: 10.1002/pep2.24333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that target the P-amyloid peptide (Aβ) are important Alzheimer's disease research tools and are now being used as Alzheimer's disease therapies. Conformation-specific mAbs that target oligomeric and fibrillar Aβ assemblies are of particular interest, as these assemblies are associated with Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis and progression. This paper reports the generation of rabbit mAbs against two different triangular trimers derived from Aβ. These antibodies are the first mAbs generated against Aβ oligomer mimics in which the high-resolution structures of the oligomers are known. We describe the isolation of the mAbs using single B-cell sorting of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from immunized rabbits, the selectivity of the mAbs for the triangular trimers, the immunoreactivity of the mAbs with aggregated Aβ42, and the immunoreactivity of the mAbs in brain tissue from the 5xFAD Alzheimer's disease mouse model. The characterization of these mAbs against structurally defined trimers derived from Aβ enhances understanding of antibody-amyloid recognition and may benefit the development of diagnostics and immunotherapies in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam G Kreutzer
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697
| | - Ryan J Malonis
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461
| | | | - Karen Tong
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461
| | | | - Jennifer T Nguyen
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461
| | - Michelle N Diab
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697
| | - Jonathan R Lai
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461
| | - James S Nowick
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697
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5
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Rinauro DJ, Chiti F, Vendruscolo M, Limbocker R. Misfolded protein oligomers: mechanisms of formation, cytotoxic effects, and pharmacological approaches against protein misfolding diseases. Mol Neurodegener 2024; 19:20. [PMID: 38378578 PMCID: PMC10877934 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00651-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The conversion of native peptides and proteins into amyloid aggregates is a hallmark of over 50 human disorders, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Increasing evidence implicates misfolded protein oligomers produced during the amyloid formation process as the primary cytotoxic agents in many of these devastating conditions. In this review, we analyze the processes by which oligomers are formed, their structures, physicochemical properties, population dynamics, and the mechanisms of their cytotoxicity. We then focus on drug discovery strategies that target the formation of oligomers and their ability to disrupt cell physiology and trigger degenerative processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dillon J Rinauro
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK
| | - Fabrizio Chiti
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Michele Vendruscolo
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK.
| | - Ryan Limbocker
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY, 10996, USA.
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6
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Kreutzer AG, Parrocha CMT, Haerianardakani S, Guaglianone G, Nguyen JT, Diab MN, Yong W, Perez-Rosendahl M, Head E, Nowick JS. Antibodies Raised Against an Aβ Oligomer Mimic Recognize Pathological Features in Alzheimer's Disease and Associated Amyloid-Disease Brain Tissue. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2024; 10:104-121. [PMID: 38292607 PMCID: PMC10823522 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.3c00592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Antibodies that target the β-amyloid peptide (Aβ) and its associated assemblies are important tools in Alzheimer's disease research and have emerged as promising Alzheimer's disease therapies. This paper reports the creation and characterization of a triangular Aβ trimer mimic composed of Aβ17-36 β-hairpins and the generation and study of polyclonal antibodies raised against the Aβ trimer mimic. The Aβ trimer mimic is covalently stabilized by three disulfide bonds at the corners of the triangular trimer to create a homogeneous oligomer. Structural, biophysical, and cell-based studies demonstrate that the Aβ trimer mimic shares characteristics with oligomers of full-length Aβ. X-ray crystallography elucidates the structure of the trimer and reveals that four copies of the trimer assemble to form a dodecamer. SDS-PAGE, size exclusion chromatography, and dynamic light scattering reveal that the trimer also forms higher-order assemblies in solution. Cell-based toxicity assays show that the trimer elicits LDH release, decreases ATP levels, and activates caspase-3/7 mediated apoptosis. Immunostaining studies on brain slices from people who lived with Alzheimer's disease and people who lived with Down syndrome reveal that the polyclonal antibodies raised against the Aβ trimer mimic recognize pathological features including different types of Aβ plaques and cerebral amyloid angiopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam G. Kreutzer
- Department
of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Chelsea Marie T. Parrocha
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Sepehr Haerianardakani
- Department
of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Gretchen Guaglianone
- Department
of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Jennifer T. Nguyen
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Michelle N. Diab
- Department
of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - William Yong
- Department
of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University
of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Mari Perez-Rosendahl
- Department
of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University
of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Elizabeth Head
- Department
of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University
of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - James S. Nowick
- Department
of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, United States
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, United States
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7
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Neațu M, Covaliu A, Ioniță I, Jugurt A, Davidescu EI, Popescu BO. Monoclonal Antibody Therapy in Alzheimer's Disease. Pharmaceutics 2023; 16:60. [PMID: 38258071 PMCID: PMC11154277 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative condition marked by the progressive deterioration of cognitive abilities, memory impairment, and the accumulation of abnormal proteins, specifically beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles, within the brain. Despite extensive research efforts, Alzheimer's disease remains without a cure, presenting a significant global healthcare challenge. Recently, there has been an increased focus on antibody-based treatments as a potentially effective method for dealing with Alzheimer's disease. This paper offers a comprehensive overview of the current status of research on antibody-based molecules as therapies for Alzheimer's disease. We will briefly mention their mechanisms of action, therapeutic efficacy, and safety profiles while addressing the challenges and limitations encountered during their development. We also highlight some crucial considerations in antibody-based treatment development, including patient selection criteria, dosing regimens, or safety concerns. In conclusion, antibody-based therapies present a hopeful outlook for addressing Alzheimer's disease. While challenges remain, the accumulating evidence suggests that these therapies may offer substantial promise in ameliorating or preventing the progression of this debilitating condition, thus potentially enhancing the quality of life for the millions of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Neațu
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (M.N.); (A.C.); (I.I.); (A.J.); (B.O.P.)
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Covaliu
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (M.N.); (A.C.); (I.I.); (A.J.); (B.O.P.)
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Iulia Ioniță
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (M.N.); (A.C.); (I.I.); (A.J.); (B.O.P.)
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana Jugurt
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (M.N.); (A.C.); (I.I.); (A.J.); (B.O.P.)
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Eugenia Irene Davidescu
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (M.N.); (A.C.); (I.I.); (A.J.); (B.O.P.)
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Bogdan Ovidiu Popescu
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (M.N.); (A.C.); (I.I.); (A.J.); (B.O.P.)
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurosciences and Experimental Myology, “Victor Babeș” National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
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Zhao Z, Liu Y, Ruan S, Hu Y. Current Anti-Amyloid-β Therapy for Alzheimer's Disease Treatment: From Clinical Research to Nanomedicine. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:7825-7845. [PMID: 38144511 PMCID: PMC10749171 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s444115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent successive approval of anti-amyloid-β (Aβ) monoclonal antibodies as disease-modifying therapies against Alzheimer's disease (AD) has raised great confidence in the development of anti-AD therapies; however, the current therapies still face the dilemma of significant adverse reactions and limited effects. In this review, we summarized the therapeutic characteristics of the approved anti-Aβ immunotherapies and dialectically analyzed the gains and losses from clinical trials. The review further proposed the reasonable selection of animal models in preclinical studies from the perspective of different animal models of Aβ deposition and deals in-depth with the recent advances of exploring preclinical nanomedical application in Aβ targeted therapy, aiming to provide a reliable systematic summary for the development of novel anti-Aβ therapies. Collectively, this review comprehensively dissects the pioneering work of Aβ-targeted therapies and proposed perspective insight into AD-modified therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixuan Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Translational Research Institute for Neurological Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
- The Institute of Brain Science, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yun Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Translational Research Institute for Neurological Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
- The Institute of Brain Science, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shirong Ruan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Translational Research Institute for Neurological Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
- The Institute of Brain Science, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yixuan Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Translational Research Institute for Neurological Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
- The Institute of Brain Science, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
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9
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Tu Z, Yan S, Han B, Li C, Liang W, Lin Y, Ding Y, Wei H, Wang L, Xu H, Ye J, Li B, Li S, Li XJ. Tauopathy promotes spinal cord-dependent production of toxic amyloid-beta in transgenic monkeys. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:358. [PMID: 37735155 PMCID: PMC10514290 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01601-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Tauopathy, characterized by the hyperphosphorylation and accumulation of the microtubule-associated protein tau, and the accumulation of Aβ oligomers, constitute the major pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease. However, the relationship and causal roles of these two pathological changes in neurodegeneration remain to be defined, even though they occur together or independently in several neurodegenerative diseases associated with cognitive and movement impairment. While it is widely accepted that Aβ accumulation leads to tauopathy in the late stages of the disease, it is still unknown whether tauopathy influences the formation of toxic Aβ oligomers. To address this, we generated transgenic cynomolgus monkey models expressing Tau (P301L) through lentiviral infection of monkey embryos. These monkeys developed age-dependent neurodegeneration and motor dysfunction. Additionally, we performed a stereotaxic injection of adult monkey and mouse brains to express Tau (P301L) via AAV9 infection. Importantly, we found that tauopathy resulting from embryonic transgenic Tau expression or stereotaxic brain injection of AAV-Tau selectively promoted the generation of Aβ oligomers in the monkey spinal cord. These Aβ oligomers were recognized by several antibodies to Aβ1-42 and contributed to neurodegeneration. However, the generation of Aβ oligomers was not observed in other brain regions of Tau transgenic monkeys or in the brains of mice injected with AAV9-Tau (P301L), suggesting that the generation of Aβ oligomers is species- and brain region-dependent. Our findings demonstrate for the first time that tauopathy can trigger Aβ pathology in the primate spinal cord and provide new insight into the pathogenesis and treatment of tauopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuchi Tu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
| | - Sen Yan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
| | - Bofeng Han
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Caijuan Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Weien Liang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yingqi Lin
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yongyan Ding
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Huiyi Wei
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Jianmeng Ye
- Guangdong Landau Biotechnology Co. Ltd., Guangzhou, 510555, China
| | - Bang Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Shihua Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Xiao-Jiang Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
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10
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Zhang Y, Chen H, Li R, Sterling K, Song W. Amyloid β-based therapy for Alzheimer's disease: challenges, successes and future. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:248. [PMID: 37386015 PMCID: PMC10310781 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01484-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyloid β protein (Aβ) is the main component of neuritic plaques in Alzheimer's disease (AD), and its accumulation has been considered as the molecular driver of Alzheimer's pathogenesis and progression. Aβ has been the prime target for the development of AD therapy. However, the repeated failures of Aβ-targeted clinical trials have cast considerable doubt on the amyloid cascade hypothesis and whether the development of Alzheimer's drug has followed the correct course. However, the recent successes of Aβ targeted trials have assuaged those doubts. In this review, we discussed the evolution of the amyloid cascade hypothesis over the last 30 years and summarized its application in Alzheimer's diagnosis and modification. In particular, we extensively discussed the pitfalls, promises and important unanswered questions regarding the current anti-Aβ therapy, as well as strategies for further study and development of more feasible Aβ-targeted approaches in the optimization of AD prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Huaqiu Chen
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ran Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Institute of Aging, Key Laboratory of Alzheimer's Disease of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Keenan Sterling
- Townsend Family Laboratories, Department of Psychiatry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Weihong Song
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Institute of Aging, Key Laboratory of Alzheimer's Disease of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Townsend Family Laboratories, Department of Psychiatry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Araki W. Aβ Oligomer Toxicity-Reducing Therapy for the Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease: Importance of the Nrf2 and PPARγ Pathways. Cells 2023; 12:1386. [PMID: 37408220 DOI: 10.3390/cells12101386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed that soluble amyloid-β oligomers (AβOs) play a pathogenetic role in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Indeed, AβOs induce neurotoxic and synaptotoxic effects and are also critically involved in neuroinflammation. Oxidative stress appears to be a crucial event underlying these pathological effects of AβOs. From a therapeutic standpoint, new drugs for AD designed to remove AβOs or inhibit the formation of AβOs are currently being developed. However, it is also worth considering strategies for preventing AβO toxicity itself. In particular, small molecules with AβO toxicity-reducing activity have potential as drug candidates. Among such small molecules, those that can enhance Nrf2 and/or PPARγ activity can effectively inhibit AβO toxicity. In this review, I summarize studies on the small molecules that counteract AβO toxicity and are capable of activating Nrf2 and/or PPARγ. I also discuss how these interrelated pathways are involved in the mechanisms by which these small molecules prevent AβO-induced neurotoxicity and neuroinflammation. I propose that AβO toxicity-reducing therapy, designated ATR-T, could be a beneficial, complementary strategy for the prevention and treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Araki
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
- Memory Clinic Ochanomizu, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
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12
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Liu P, Lapcinski IP, Shapiro SL, Kemper LJ, Ashe KH. Aβ*56 is a stable oligomer that correlates with age-related memory loss in Tg2576 mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.20.533414. [PMID: 36993768 PMCID: PMC10055265 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.20.533414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Amyloid-β (Aβ) oligomers consist of fibrillar and non-fibrillar soluble assemblies of the Aβ peptide. Tg2576 human amyloid precursor protein (APP)-expressing transgenic mice modeling Alzheimer's disease produce Aβ*56, a non-fibrillar Aβ assembly that has been shown by several groups to relate more closely to memory deficits than plaques. Previous studies did not decipher specific forms of Aβ present in Aβ*56. Here, we confirm and extend the biochemical characterization of Aβ*56. We used anti-Aβ(1-x), anti-Aβ(x-40), and A11 anti-oligomer antibodies in conjunction with western blotting, immunoaffinity purification, and size-exclusion chromatography to probe aqueous brain extracts from Tg2576 mice of different ages. We found that Aβ*56 is a ∼56-kDa, SDS-stable, A11-reactive, non-plaque-related, water-soluble, brain-derived oligomer containing canonical Aβ(1-40) that correlates with age-related memory loss. The unusual stability of this high molecular-weight oligomer renders it an attractive candidate for studying relationships between molecular structure and effects on brain function.
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13
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Khalifa J, Bourgault S, Gaudreault R. Interactions of Polyphenolic Gallotannins with Amyloidogenic Polypeptides Associated with Alzheimer's Disease: From Molecular Insights to Physiological Significance. Curr Alzheimer Res 2023; 20:603-617. [PMID: 38270140 DOI: 10.2174/0115672050277001231213073043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Polyphenols are natural compounds abundantly found in plants. They are known for their numerous benefits to human health, including antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory activities. Interestingly, many studies have revealed that polyphenols can also modulate the formation of amyloid fibrils associated with disease states and can prevent the formation of cytotoxic oligomer species. In this review, we underline the numerous effects of four hydrolysable gallotannins (HGTs) with high conformational flexibility, low toxicity, and multi-targeticity, e.g., tannic acid, pentagalloyl glucose, corilagin, and 1,3,6-tri-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose, on the aggregation of amyloidogenic proteins associated with the Alzheimer's Disease (AD). These HGTs have demonstrated interesting abilities to reduce, at different levels, the formation of amyloid fibrils involved in AD, including those assembled from the amyloid β-peptide, the tubulin-associated unit, and the islet amyloid polypeptide. HGTs were also shown to disassemble pre-formed fibrils and to diminish cognitive decline in mice. Finally, this manuscript highlights the importance of further investigating these naturally occurring HGTs as promising scaffolds to design molecules that can interfere with the formation of proteotoxic oligomers and aggregates associated with AD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihane Khalifa
- Département de Chimie, Université du Québec à Montréal, 2101 Rue Jeanne-Mance, Montréal, QC, H2X 2J6, Canada
- Quebec Network for Research on Protein Function, Engineering and Applications, PROTEO, Canada
- Quebec Centre for Advanced Materials (QCAM), 3420 University Street, Montréal, QC, H2X 3Y7, Canada
| | - Steve Bourgault
- Département de Chimie, Université du Québec à Montréal, 2101 Rue Jeanne-Mance, Montréal, QC, H2X 2J6, Canada
- Quebec Network for Research on Protein Function, Engineering and Applications, PROTEO, Canada
| | - Roger Gaudreault
- Département de Chimie, Université du Québec à Montréal, 2101 Rue Jeanne-Mance, Montréal, QC, H2X 2J6, Canada
- Quebec Centre for Advanced Materials (QCAM), 3420 University Street, Montréal, QC, H2X 3Y7, Canada
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14
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Sandberg A, Berenjeno-Correa E, Rodriguez RC, Axenhus M, Weiss SS, Batenburg K, Hoozemans JJM, Tjernberg LO, Scheper W. Aβ42 oligomer-specific antibody ALZ-201 reduces the neurotoxicity of Alzheimer's disease brain extracts. Alzheimers Res Ther 2022; 14:196. [PMID: 36578089 PMCID: PMC9798723 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-022-01141-1] [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: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyloid-β 1-42 (Aβ42) neurotoxicity stems mostly from its soluble oligomeric aggregates. Studies of such aggregates have been hampered by the lack of oligomer-specific research tools and their intrinsic instability and heterogeneity. Here, we developed a monoclonal antibody with a unique oligomer-specific binding profile (ALZ-201) using oligomer-stabilising technology. Subsequently, we assessed the etiological relevance of the Aβ targeted by ALZ-201 on physiologically derived, toxic Aβ using extracts from post-mortem brains of AD patients and controls in primary mouse neuron cultures. METHODS Mice were immunised with stable oligomers derived from the Aβ42 peptide with A21C/A30C mutations (AβCC), and ALZ-201 was developed using hybridoma technology. Specificity for the oligomeric form of the Aβ42CC antigen and Aβ42 was confirmed using ELISA, and non-reactivity against plaques by immunohistochemistry (IHC). The antibody's potential for cross-protective activity against pathological Aβ was evaluated in brain tissue samples from 10 individuals confirmed as AD (n=7) and non-AD (n=3) with IHC staining for Aβ and phosphorylated tau (p-Tau) aggregates. Brain extracts were prepared and immunodepleted using the positive control 4G8 antibody, ALZ-201 or an isotype control to ALZ-201. Fractions were biochemically characterised, and toxicity assays were performed in primary mouse neuronal cultures using automated high-content microscopy. RESULTS AD brain extracts proved to be more toxic than controls as demonstrated by neuronal loss and morphological determinants (e.g. synapse density and measures of neurite complexity). Immunodepletion using 4G8 reduced Aβ levels in both AD and control samples compared to ALZ-201 or the isotype control, which showed no significant difference. Importantly, despite the differential effect on the total Aβ content, the neuroprotective effects of 4G8 and ALZ-201 immunodepletion were similar, whereas the isotype control showed no effect. CONCLUSIONS ALZ-201 depletes a toxic species in post-mortem AD brain extracts causing a positive physiological and protective impact on the integrity and morphology of mouse neurons. Its unique specificity indicates that a low-abundant, soluble Aβ42 oligomer may account for much of the neurotoxicity in AD. This critical attribute identifies the potential of ALZ-201 as a novel drug candidate for achieving a true, clinical therapeutic effect in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Sandberg
- grid.451585.8Alzinova AB, Pepparedsleden 1, SE-431 83, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Ernesto Berenjeno-Correa
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands ,grid.12380.380000 0004 1754 9227Department of Functional Genomics, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Rosa Crespo Rodriguez
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Department of Neurochemistry, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Michael Axenhus
- grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophia Schedin Weiss
- grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kevin Batenburg
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands ,grid.12380.380000 0004 1754 9227Department of Functional Genomics, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jeroen J. M. Hoozemans
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Department of Neuropathology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lars O. Tjernberg
- grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Wiep Scheper
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands ,grid.12380.380000 0004 1754 9227Department of Functional Genomics, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Fišar Z. Linking the Amyloid, Tau, and Mitochondrial Hypotheses of Alzheimer's Disease and Identifying Promising Drug Targets. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1676. [PMID: 36421690 PMCID: PMC9687482 DOI: 10.3390/biom12111676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Damage or loss of brain cells and impaired neurochemistry, neurogenesis, and synaptic and nonsynaptic plasticity of the brain lead to dementia in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Injury to synapses and neurons and accumulation of extracellular amyloid plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles are considered the main morphological and neuropathological features of AD. Age, genetic and epigenetic factors, environmental stressors, and lifestyle contribute to the risk of AD onset and progression. These risk factors are associated with structural and functional changes in the brain, leading to cognitive decline. Biomarkers of AD reflect or cause specific changes in brain function, especially changes in pathways associated with neurotransmission, neuroinflammation, bioenergetics, apoptosis, and oxidative and nitrosative stress. Even in the initial stages, AD is associated with Aβ neurotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and tau neurotoxicity. The integrative amyloid-tau-mitochondrial hypothesis assumes that the primary cause of AD is the neurotoxicity of Aβ oligomers and tau oligomers, mitochondrial dysfunction, and their mutual synergy. For the development of new efficient AD drugs, targeting the elimination of neurotoxicity, mutual potentiation of effects, and unwanted protein interactions of risk factors and biomarkers (mainly Aβ oligomers, tau oligomers, and mitochondrial dysfunction) in the early stage of the disease seems promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zdeněk Fišar
- Department of Psychiatry, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Ke Karlovu 11, 120 00 Prague, Czech Republic
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Bigi A, Cascella R, Chiti F, Cecchi C. Amyloid fibrils act as a reservoir of soluble oligomers, the main culprits in protein deposition diseases. Bioessays 2022; 44:e2200086. [DOI: 10.1002/bies.202200086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Bigi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences Section of Biochemistry University of Florence Florence Italy
| | - Roberta Cascella
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences Section of Biochemistry University of Florence Florence Italy
| | - Fabrizio Chiti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences Section of Biochemistry University of Florence Florence Italy
| | - Cristina Cecchi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences Section of Biochemistry University of Florence Florence Italy
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