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Xiong GJ, Sheng ZH. Presynaptic perspective: Axonal transport defects in neurodevelopmental disorders. J Cell Biol 2024; 223:e202401145. [PMID: 38568173 PMCID: PMC10988239 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202401145] [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: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Disruption of synapse assembly and maturation leads to a broad spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders. Presynaptic proteins are largely synthesized in the soma, where they are packaged into precursor vesicles and transported into distal axons to ensure precise assembly and maintenance of presynapses. Due to their morphological features, neurons face challenges in the delivery of presynaptic cargos to nascent boutons. Thus, targeted axonal transport is vital to build functional synapses. A growing number of mutations in genes encoding the transport machinery have been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders. Emerging lines of evidence have started to uncover presynaptic mechanisms underlying axonal transport defects, thus broadening the view of neurodevelopmental disorders beyond postsynaptic mechanisms. In this review, we discuss presynaptic perspectives of neurodevelopmental disorders by focusing on impaired axonal transport and disturbed assembly and maintenance of presynapses. We also discuss potential strategies for restoring axonal transport as an early therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui-Jing Xiong
- Synaptic Function Section, The Porter Neuroscience Research Center, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Zu-Hang Sheng
- Synaptic Function Section, The Porter Neuroscience Research Center, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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2
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De Pace R, Ghosh S, Ryan VH, Sohn M, Jarnik M, Rezvan Sangsari P, Morgan NY, Dale RK, Ward ME, Bonifacino JS. Messenger RNA transport on lysosomal vesicles maintains axonal mitochondrial homeostasis and prevents axonal degeneration. Nat Neurosci 2024; 27:1087-1102. [PMID: 38600167 PMCID: PMC11156585 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-024-01619-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
In neurons, RNA granules are transported along the axon for local translation away from the soma. Recent studies indicate that some of this transport involves hitchhiking of RNA granules on lysosome-related vesicles. In the present study, we leveraged the ability to prevent transport of these vesicles into the axon by knockout of the lysosome-kinesin adaptor BLOC-one-related complex (BORC) to identify a subset of axonal mRNAs that depend on lysosome-related vesicles for transport. We found that BORC knockout causes depletion of a large group of axonal mRNAs mainly encoding ribosomal and mitochondrial/oxidative phosphorylation proteins. This depletion results in mitochondrial defects and eventually leads to axonal degeneration in human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived and mouse neurons. Pathway analyses of the depleted mRNAs revealed a mechanistic connection of BORC deficiency with common neurodegenerative disorders. These results demonstrate that mRNA transport on lysosome-related vesicles is critical for the maintenance of axonal homeostasis and that its failure causes axonal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella De Pace
- Neurosciences and Cellular and Structural Biology Division, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Saikat Ghosh
- Neurosciences and Cellular and Structural Biology Division, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Veronica H Ryan
- Neurogenetics Branch, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mira Sohn
- Bioinformatics and Scientific Programming Core, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michal Jarnik
- Neurosciences and Cellular and Structural Biology Division, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Paniz Rezvan Sangsari
- Biomedical Engineering and Physical Science Shared Resource, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nicole Y Morgan
- Biomedical Engineering and Physical Science Shared Resource, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ryan K Dale
- Bioinformatics and Scientific Programming Core, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michael E Ward
- Neurogenetics Branch, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Juan S Bonifacino
- Neurosciences and Cellular and Structural Biology Division, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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3
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Ofer N, Cornejo VH, Yuste R. Spike transmission failures in axons from mouse cortical pyramidal neurons in vivo. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.29.577733. [PMID: 38352485 PMCID: PMC10862735 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.29.577733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
The propagation of action potentials along axons is traditionally considered to be reliable, as a consequence of the high safety factor of action potential propagation. However, numerical simulations have suggested that, at high frequencies, spikes could fail to invade distal axonal branches. Given the complex morphologies of axonal trees, with extensive branching and long-distance projections, spike propagation failures could be functionally important. To explore this experimentally in vivo, we used an axonal-targeted calcium indicator to image action potentials at axonal terminal branches in superficial layers from mouse somatosensory cortical pyramidal neurons. We activated axons with an extracellular electrode, varying stimulation frequencies, and computationally extracted axonal morphologies and associated calcium responses. We find that axonal boutons have higher calcium accumulations than their parent axons, as was reported in vitro. But, contrary to previous in vitro results, our data reveal spike failures in a significant subset of branches, as a function of branching geometry and spike frequency. The filtering is correlated with the geometric ratio of the branch diameters, as expected by cable theory. These findings suggest that axonal morphologies contribute to signal processing in the cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Netanel Ofer
- Neurotechnology Center, Dept. Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Victor Hugo Cornejo
- Neurotechnology Center, Dept. Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Rafael Yuste
- Neurotechnology Center, Dept. Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
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4
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Rizzuti M, Sali L, Melzi V, Scarcella S, Costamagna G, Ottoboni L, Quetti L, Brambilla L, Papadimitriou D, Verde F, Ratti A, Ticozzi N, Comi GP, Corti S, Gagliardi D. Genomic and transcriptomic advances in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 92:102126. [PMID: 37972860 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102126] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder and the most common motor neuron disease. ALS shows substantial clinical and molecular heterogeneity. In vitro and in vivo models coupled with multiomic techniques have provided important contributions to unraveling the pathomechanisms underlying ALS. To date, despite promising results and accumulating knowledge, an effective treatment is still lacking. Here, we provide an overview of the literature on the use of genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics and microRNAs to deeply investigate the molecular mechanisms developing and sustaining ALS. We report the most relevant genes implicated in ALS pathogenesis, discussing the use of different high-throughput sequencing techniques and the role of epigenomic modifications. Furthermore, we present transcriptomic studies discussing the most recent advances, from microarrays to bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing. Finally, we discuss the use of microRNAs as potential biomarkers and promising tools for molecular intervention. The integration of data from multiple omic approaches may provide new insights into pathogenic pathways in ALS by shedding light on diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, helping to stratify patients into clinically relevant subgroups, revealing novel therapeutic targets and supporting the development of new effective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mafalda Rizzuti
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Sali
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Melzi
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Simone Scarcella
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Costamagna
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Linda Ottoboni
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Quetti
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Brambilla
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Federico Verde
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonia Ratti
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Ticozzi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giacomo Pietro Comi
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Neuromuscular and Rare Diseases Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Corti
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Delia Gagliardi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
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5
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Ionescu A, Altman T, Perlson E. Looking for answers far away from the soma-the (un)known axonal functions of TDP-43, and their contribution to early NMJ disruption in ALS. Mol Neurodegener 2023; 18:35. [PMID: 37259156 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00623-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Axon degeneration and Neuromuscular Junction (NMJ) disruption are key pathologies in the fatal neurodegenerative disease Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Despite accumulating evidence that axons and NMJs are impacted at a very early stage of the disease, current knowledge about the mechanisms leading to their degeneration remains elusive. Cytoplasmic mislocalization and accumulation of the protein TDP-43 are considered key pathological hallmarks of ALS, as they occur in ~ 97% of ALS patients, both sporadic and familial. Recent studies have identified pathological accumulation of TDP-43 in intramuscular nerves of muscle biopsies collected from pre-diagnosed, early symptomatic ALS patients. These findings suggest a gain of function for TDP-43 in axons, which might facilitate early NMJ disruption. In this review, we dissect the process leading to axonal TDP-43 accumulation and phosphorylation, discuss the known and hypothesized roles TDP-43 plays in healthy axons, and review possible mechanisms that connect TDP-43 pathology to the axon and NMJ degeneration in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Ionescu
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Room 605, Ramat Aviv, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Topaz Altman
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Room 605, Ramat Aviv, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Eran Perlson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Room 605, Ramat Aviv, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel.
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
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6
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Multiple Copies of microRNA Binding Sites in Long 3'UTR Variants Regulate Axonal Translation. Cells 2023; 12:cells12020233. [PMID: 36672174 PMCID: PMC9856650 DOI: 10.3390/cells12020233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Rapid responses to changes within subcellular compartments of highly polarized cells, such as neuron axons, depend on local translation and post-transcriptional regulation. The mechanism by which microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate this process is not fully understood. Here, using live cell imaging and RNA sequencing analysis, we demonstrated how miRNAs can differentially control hundreds of transcripts at the subcellular level. We demonstrated that the seed match length of the miRNA target-sequence regulates both mRNA stability and protein translation rates. While longer seed matches have an increased inhibitory effect, transcriptome analysis did not reveal differences in seed match length between axonal and somata mRNAs of motor neurons. However, mRNA variants with longer 3'UTR are enriched in axons and contain multiple repeats of specific miRNA target sequences. Finally, we demonstrated that the long 3'UTR mRNA variant of the motor protein Kif5b is enriched explicitly in motor neuron axons and contains multiple sequence repeats for binding miR-129-5p. This subsequently results in the differential post-transcriptional regulation of kif5b and its synthesis in axons. Thus, we suggest that the number of miRNA binding sites at the 3'UTR of the mRNA, rather than the miRNA seed match length, regulates the axonal transcriptome.
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7
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Kowalczyk M, Kowalczyk E, Galita G, Majsterek I, Talarowska M, Popławski T, Kwiatkowski P, Lichota A, Sienkiewicz M. Association of Polymorphic Variants in Argonaute Genes with Depression Risk in a Polish Population. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810586. [PMID: 36142498 PMCID: PMC9500920 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Argonaute (AGO) proteins, through their key role in the regulation of gene expression, participate in many biological processes, including cell differentiation, proliferation, death and DNA repair. Accurate regulation of gene expression appears to be important for the proper development of complex neural circuits. Loss of AGO proteins is known to lead to early embryonic mortality in mice with various malformations, including anomalies of the central nervous system. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of AGO genes can lead to deregulation of the processes in which AGO proteins are involved. The contribution of different SNPs in depression has been extensively studied. However, there are hardly any studies on the contribution of AGO genes. The aim of our research was to assess the relationship between the occurrence of depression and the presence of SNPs in genes AGO1 (rs636882) and AGO2 (rs4961280; rs2292779; rs2977490) in a Polish population. One hundred and one subjects in the study group were diagnosed with recurrent depressive disorder by a psychiatrist. The control group comprised 117 healthy subjects. Study participants performed the HDRS (Hamilton Depression Scale) test to confirm or exclude depression and assess severity. The frequency of polymorphic variants of genes AGO1 (rs636882) and AGO2 (rs4961280; rs2292779; rs2977490) was determined using TaqMan SNP genotyping assays and the TaqMan universal PCR master mix, no AmpErase UNG. The rs4961280/AGO2 polymorphism was associated with a decrease in depression occurrence in the codominant (OR = 0.51, p = 0.034), dominant (OR = 0.49, p = 0.01), and overdominant (OR = 0.58, p = 0.049) models. Based on the obtained results, we found that the studied patients demonstrated a lower risk of depression with the presence of the polymorphic variant of the rs4961280/AGO2 gene—genotype C/A and C/A-A/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateusz Kowalczyk
- Babinski Memorial Hospital, Aleksandrowska St. 159, 91-229 Lodz, Poland
| | - Edward Kowalczyk
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Zeligowskiego St. 7/9, 90-752 Lodz, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Galita
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 5, 92-215 Lodz, Poland
| | - Ireneusz Majsterek
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 5, 92-215 Lodz, Poland
| | - Monika Talarowska
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychopathology, Institute of Psychology, University of Lodz, Smugowa St. 10/12, 91-433 Lodz, Poland
| | - Tomasz Popławski
- Department of Microbiology and Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 5, 92-215 Lodz, Poland
| | - Paweł Kwiatkowski
- Department of Diagnostic Immunology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstancow Wielkopolskich Av. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Anna Lichota
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostic, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego St. 1, 90-151 Lodz, Poland
| | - Monika Sienkiewicz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostic, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego St. 1, 90-151 Lodz, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-42-272-55-60
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8
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Cohen B, Altman T, Golani-Armon A, Savulescu AF, Ibraheem A, Mhlanga MM, Perlson E, Arava YS. The nuclear encoded Cox7c mRNA co-transport with mitochondria along axons via coding-region dependent mechanism. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:276008. [PMID: 35833493 PMCID: PMC9481926 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear-encoded mitochondrial protein mRNAs have been found to be localized and locally translated within neuronal processes. However, the mechanism of transport for those mRNAs to distal locations is not fully understood. Here, we describe axonal co-transport of Cox7c with mitochondria. Fractionation analysis and single-molecule fluorescence in situ hybridization (smFISH) assay revealed that endogenous mRNA encoding Cox7c was preferentially associated with mitochondria in a mouse neuronal cell line and within mouse primary motor neuron axons, whereas other mRNAs that do not encode mitochondrial protein were much less associated. Live-cell imaging of MS2-tagged Cox7c mRNA further confirmed the preferential colocalization and co-transport of Cox7c mRNA with mitochondria in motor neuron axons. Intriguingly, the coding region, rather than the 3′ untranslated region (UTR), was the key domain for the co-transport. Our results reveal that Cox7c mRNA can be transported with mitochondria along significant distances and that its coding region is a major recognition feature. This is consistent with the idea that mitochondria can play a vital role in spatial regulation of the axonal transcriptome at distant neuronal sites. Summary: Biochemical and live imaging analyses show that in mouse axons, Cox7c mRNA is associated and transported with mitochondria. Mutational analysis identifies mRNA domains essential for co-transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bar Cohen
- Faculty of Biology, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Israel
| | - Topaz Altman
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Adi Golani-Armon
- Faculty of Biology, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Israel.,Faculty of Nanosciences and Nanoengineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Israel
| | - Anca F Savulescu
- Division of Chemical, Systems & Synthetic Biology, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease & Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Amjd Ibraheem
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Musa M Mhlanga
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands.,Epigenomics & Single Cell Biophysics Group, Department of Cell Biology, FNWI, Radboud University, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands.,Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Eran Perlson
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Yoav S Arava
- Faculty of Biology, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Israel
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9
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Houghton OH, Mizielinska S, Gomez-Suaga P. The Interplay Between Autophagy and RNA Homeostasis: Implications for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Dementia. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:838402. [PMID: 35573690 PMCID: PMC9096704 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.838402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia are neurodegenerative disorders that lie on a disease spectrum, sharing genetic causes and pathology, and both without effective therapeutics. Two pathways that have been shown to play major roles in disease pathogenesis are autophagy and RNA homeostasis. Intriguingly, there is an increasing body of evidence suggesting a critical interplay between these pathways. Autophagy is a multi-stage process for bulk and selective clearance of malfunctional cellular components, with many layers of regulation. Although the majority of autophagy research focuses on protein degradation, it can also mediate RNA catabolism. ALS/FTD-associated proteins are involved in many stages of autophagy and autophagy-mediated RNA degradation, particularly converging on the clearance of persistent pathological stress granules. In this review, we will summarise the progress in understanding the autophagy-RNA homeostasis interplay and how that knowledge contributes to our understanding of the pathobiology of ALS/FTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- O H Houghton
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London, United Kingdom.,UK Dementia Research Institute at King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - S Mizielinska
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London, United Kingdom.,UK Dementia Research Institute at King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - P Gomez-Suaga
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London, United Kingdom.,Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Genética, Facultad de Enfermería y Terapia Ocupacional, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain.,Instituto Universitario de Investigación Biosanitaria de Extremadura (INUBE), Cáceres, Spain
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10
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Shapiro D, Massopust R, Taetzsch T, Valdez G. Argonaute 2 is lost from neuromuscular junctions affected with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in SOD1 G93A mice. Sci Rep 2022; 12:4630. [PMID: 35301367 PMCID: PMC8931107 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-08455-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
miRNAs are necessary for neuromuscular junction (NMJ) health; however, little is known about the proteins required for their activity in this regard. We examined expression of Argonaute 2 (Ago2) and miRNA biogenesis genes in skeletal muscles during development, following nerve injury and in the SOD1G93A ALS mouse model. We found that these genes are enriched in neonate muscles and in adult muscles following nerve injury. Despite widespread NMJ deterioration, these genes were not increased in muscles of SOD1G93A mice. We also found that Ago2 distribution is linked to maturation, innervation, and health of NMJs. Ago2 increasingly concentrates in synaptic regions during NMJ maturation, disperses following experimental denervation and reconcentrates at the NMJ upon reinnervation. Similar to experimentally denervated muscles, a homogenous distribution of Ago2 was observed in SOD1G93A muscle fibers. To determine if Ago2 is necessary for the health of adult muscles, we excised Ago2 from Ago2fl/fl mice using adeno-associated virus mediated Cre recombinase expression. We observed modest changes in muscle histology after 3 months of Ago2 knockdown. Together, these data provide critical insights into the role of Ago2 and miRNA biogenesis genes in healthy and ALS-afflicted skeletal muscles and NMJs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dillon Shapiro
- Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, & Biochemistry Graduate Program, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Ryan Massopust
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, 70 Ship St, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Thomas Taetzsch
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, 70 Ship St, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Gregorio Valdez
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, 70 Ship St, Providence, RI, 02903, USA.
- Center for Translational Neuroscience, Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science and Brown Institute for Translational Science, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, USA.
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11
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The Biogenesis of miRNAs and Their Role in the Development of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030572. [PMID: 35159383 PMCID: PMC8833997 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease that affects upper and lower motor neurons. As there is no effective treatment for ALS, it is particularly important to screen key gene therapy targets. The identifications of microRNAs (miRNAs) have completely changed the traditional view of gene regulation. miRNAs are small noncoding single-stranded RNA molecules involved in the regulation of post-transcriptional gene expression. Recent advances also indicate that miRNAs are biomarkers in many diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we summarize recent advances regarding the mechanisms underlying the role of miRNAs in ALS pathogenesis and its application to gene therapy for ALS. The potential of miRNAs to target diverse pathways opens a new avenue for ALS therapy.
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12
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Koppers M, Holt CE. Receptor-Ribosome Coupling: A Link Between Extrinsic Signals and mRNA Translation in Neuronal Compartments. Annu Rev Neurosci 2022; 45:41-61. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-neuro-083021-110015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Axons receive extracellular signals that help to guide growth and synapse formation during development and to maintain neuronal function and survival during maturity. These signals relay information via cell surface receptors that can initiate local intracellular signaling at the site of binding, including local messenger RNA (mRNA) translation. Direct coupling of translational machinery to receptors provides an attractive way to activate this local mRNA translation and change the local proteome with high spatiotemporal resolution. Here, we first discuss the increasing evidence that different external stimuli trigger translation of specific subsets of mRNAs in axons via receptors and thus play a prominent role in various processes in both developing and mature neurons. We then discuss the receptor-mediated molecular mechanisms that regulate local mRNA translational with a focus on direct receptor-ribosome coupling. We advance the idea that receptor-ribosome coupling provides several advantages over other translational regulation mechanisms and is a common mechanism in cell communication. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Neuroscience, Volume 45 is July 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Koppers
- Department of Biology, Division of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Christine E. Holt
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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13
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Doron‐Mandel E, Koppel I, Abraham O, Rishal I, Smith TP, Buchanan CN, Sahoo PK, Kadlec J, Oses‐Prieto JA, Kawaguchi R, Alber S, Zahavi EE, Di Matteo P, Di Pizio A, Song D, Okladnikov N, Gordon D, Ben‐Dor S, Haffner‐Krausz R, Coppola G, Burlingame AL, Jungwirth P, Twiss JL, Fainzilber M. The glycine arginine-rich domain of the RNA-binding protein nucleolin regulates its subcellular localization. EMBO J 2021; 40:e107158. [PMID: 34515347 PMCID: PMC8521312 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2020107158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleolin is a multifunctional RNA Binding Protein (RBP) with diverse subcellular localizations, including the nucleolus in all eukaryotic cells, the plasma membrane in tumor cells, and the axon in neurons. Here we show that the glycine arginine rich (GAR) domain of nucleolin drives subcellular localization via protein-protein interactions with a kinesin light chain. In addition, GAR sequences mediate plasma membrane interactions of nucleolin. Both these modalities are in addition to the already reported involvement of the GAR domain in liquid-liquid phase separation in the nucleolus. Nucleolin transport to axons requires the GAR domain, and heterozygous GAR deletion mice reveal reduced axonal localization of nucleolin cargo mRNAs and enhanced sensory neuron growth. Thus, the GAR domain governs axonal transport of a growth controlling RNA-RBP complex in neurons, and is a versatile localization determinant for different subcellular compartments. Localization determination by GAR domains may explain why GAR mutants in diverse RBPs are associated with neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ella Doron‐Mandel
- Departments of Biomolecular Sciences and Molecular NeuroscienceWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
- Present address:
Department of Biological SciencesColumbia UniversityNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Indrek Koppel
- Departments of Biomolecular Sciences and Molecular NeuroscienceWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
- Present address:
Department of Chemistry and BiotechnologyTallinn University of TechnologyTallinnEstonia
| | - Ofri Abraham
- Departments of Biomolecular Sciences and Molecular NeuroscienceWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Ida Rishal
- Departments of Biomolecular Sciences and Molecular NeuroscienceWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Terika P Smith
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of South CarolinaColumbiaSCUSA
| | | | - Pabitra K Sahoo
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of South CarolinaColumbiaSCUSA
| | - Jan Kadlec
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and BiochemistryCzech Academy of SciencesPragueCzech Republic
| | - Juan A Oses‐Prieto
- Department of Pharmaceutical ChemistryUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Riki Kawaguchi
- Departments of Psychiatry and NeurologySemel Institute for Neuroscience and Human BehaviorUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCAUSA
| | - Stefanie Alber
- Departments of Biomolecular Sciences and Molecular NeuroscienceWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Eitan Erez Zahavi
- Departments of Biomolecular Sciences and Molecular NeuroscienceWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Pierluigi Di Matteo
- Departments of Biomolecular Sciences and Molecular NeuroscienceWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Agostina Di Pizio
- Departments of Biomolecular Sciences and Molecular NeuroscienceWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Didi‐Andreas Song
- Departments of Biomolecular Sciences and Molecular NeuroscienceWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Nataliya Okladnikov
- Departments of Biomolecular Sciences and Molecular NeuroscienceWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Dalia Gordon
- Departments of Biomolecular Sciences and Molecular NeuroscienceWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Shifra Ben‐Dor
- Bioinformatics UnitLife Sciences Core FacilitiesWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | | | - Giovanni Coppola
- Departments of Psychiatry and NeurologySemel Institute for Neuroscience and Human BehaviorUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCAUSA
| | - Alma L Burlingame
- Department of Pharmaceutical ChemistryUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Pavel Jungwirth
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and BiochemistryCzech Academy of SciencesPragueCzech Republic
| | - Jeffery L Twiss
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of South CarolinaColumbiaSCUSA
| | - Mike Fainzilber
- Departments of Biomolecular Sciences and Molecular NeuroscienceWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
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14
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Rajgor D, Welle TM, Smith KR. The Coordination of Local Translation, Membranous Organelle Trafficking, and Synaptic Plasticity in Neurons. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:711446. [PMID: 34336865 PMCID: PMC8317219 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.711446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurons are highly complex polarized cells, displaying an extraordinary degree of spatial compartmentalization. At presynaptic and postsynaptic sites, far from the cell body, local protein synthesis is utilized to continually modify the synaptic proteome, enabling rapid changes in protein production to support synaptic function. Synapses undergo diverse forms of plasticity, resulting in long-term, persistent changes in synapse strength, which are paramount for learning, memory, and cognition. It is now well-established that local translation of numerous synaptic proteins is essential for many forms of synaptic plasticity, and much work has gone into deciphering the strategies that neurons use to regulate activity-dependent protein synthesis. Recent studies have pointed to a coordination of the local mRNA translation required for synaptic plasticity and the trafficking of membranous organelles in neurons. This includes the co-trafficking of RNAs to their site of action using endosome/lysosome “transports,” the regulation of activity-dependent translation at synapses, and the role of mitochondria in fueling synaptic translation. Here, we review our current understanding of these mechanisms that impact local translation during synaptic plasticity, providing an overview of these novel and nuanced regulatory processes involving membranous organelles in neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipen Rajgor
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Theresa M Welle
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Katharine R Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
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15
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Jin I, Kassabov S, Kandel ER, Hawkins RD. Possible novel features of synaptic regulation during long-term facilitation in Aplysia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 28:218-227. [PMID: 34131053 PMCID: PMC8212780 DOI: 10.1101/lm.053124.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Most studies of molecular mechanisms of synaptic plasticity have focused on the sequence of changes either at individual synapses or in the cell nucleus. However, studies of long-term facilitation at Aplysia sensory neuron–motor neuron synapses in isolated cell culture suggest two additional features of facilitation. First, that there is also regulation of the number of synaptic contacts between two neurons, which may occur at the level of cell pair-specific branch points in the neuronal arbor. Branch points contain many molecules that are involved in protein synthesis-dependent long-term facilitation including neurotrophins and the RNA binding protein CPEB. Second, the regulation involves homeostatic feedback and tends to keep the total number of contacts between two neurons at a fairly constant level both at rest and following facilitation. That raises the question of how facilitation and homeostasis can coexist. A possible answer is suggested by the findings that they both involve spontaneous transmission and postsynaptic Ca2+, which can have bidirectional effects similar to LTP and LTD in hippocampus. In addition, long-term facilitation can involve a change in the set point of homeostasis, which could be encoded by plasticity molecules such as CPEB and/or PKM. A computational model based on these ideas can qualitatively simulate the basic features of both facilitation and homeostasis of the number of contacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iksung Jin
- Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Stefan Kassabov
- Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Eric R Kandel
- Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA.,New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York 10032, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Robert D Hawkins
- Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA.,New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York 10032, USA
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16
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RNA transport and local translation in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disease. Nat Neurosci 2021; 24:622-632. [PMID: 33510479 PMCID: PMC8860725 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-020-00785-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Neurons decentralize protein synthesis from the cell body to support the active metabolism of remote dendritic and axonal compartments. The neuronal RNA transport apparatus, composed of cis-acting RNA regulatory elements, neuronal transport granule proteins, and motor adaptor complexes, drives the long-distance RNA trafficking required for local protein synthesis. Over the past decade, advances in human genetics, subcellular biochemistry, and high-resolution imaging have implicated each member of the apparatus in several neurodegenerative diseases, establishing failed RNA transport and associated processes as a unifying pathomechanism. In this review, we deconstruct the RNA transport apparatus, exploring each constituent's role in RNA localization and illuminating their unique contributions to neurodegeneration.
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17
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Perrone-Capano C, Volpicelli F, Penna E, Chun JT, Crispino M. Presynaptic protein synthesis and brain plasticity: From physiology to neuropathology. Prog Neurobiol 2021; 202:102051. [PMID: 33845165 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2021.102051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
To form and maintain extremely intricate and functional neural circuitry, mammalian neurons are typically endowed with highly arborized dendrites and a long axon. The synapses that link neurons to neurons or to other cells are numerous and often too remote for the cell body to make and deliver new proteins to the right place in time. Moreover, synapses undergo continuous activity-dependent changes in their number and strength, establishing the basis of neural plasticity. The innate dilemma is then how a highly complex neuron provides new proteins for its cytoplasmic periphery and individual synapses to support synaptic plasticity. Here, we review a growing body of evidence that local protein synthesis in discrete sites of the axon and presynaptic terminals plays crucial roles in synaptic plasticity, and that deregulation of this local translation system is implicated in various pathologies of the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Perrone-Capano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy; Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", CNR, Naples, Italy.
| | | | - Eduardo Penna
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Jong Tai Chun
- Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy.
| | - Marianna Crispino
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
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18
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Abouward R, Schiavo G. Walking the line: mechanisms underlying directional mRNA transport and localisation in neurons and beyond. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:2665-2681. [PMID: 33341920 PMCID: PMC8004493 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03724-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) localisation enables a high degree of spatiotemporal control on protein synthesis, which contributes to establishing the asymmetric protein distribution required to set up and maintain cellular polarity. As such, a tight control of mRNA localisation is essential for many biological processes during development and in adulthood, such as body axes determination in Drosophila melanogaster and synaptic plasticity in neurons. The mechanisms controlling how mRNAs are localised, including diffusion and entrapment, local degradation and directed active transport, are largely conserved across evolution and have been under investigation for decades in different biological models. In this review, we will discuss the standing of the field regarding directional mRNA transport in light of the recent discovery that RNA can hitchhike on cytoplasmic organelles, such as endolysosomes, and the impact of these transport modalities on our understanding of neuronal function during development, adulthood and in neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Abouward
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Rd, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Giampietro Schiavo
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, WC1N 3BG, UK.
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
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19
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Dalla Costa I, Buchanan CN, Zdradzinski MD, Sahoo PK, Smith TP, Thames E, Kar AN, Twiss JL. The functional organization of axonal mRNA transport and translation. Nat Rev Neurosci 2021; 22:77-91. [PMID: 33288912 PMCID: PMC8161363 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-020-00407-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Axons extend for tremendously long distances from the neuronal soma and make use of localized mRNA translation to rapidly respond to different extracellular stimuli and physiological states. The locally synthesized proteins support many different functions in both developing and mature axons, raising questions about the mechanisms by which local translation is organized to ensure the appropriate responses to specific stimuli. Publications over the past few years have uncovered new mechanisms for regulating the axonal transport and localized translation of mRNAs, with several of these pathways converging on the regulation of cohorts of functionally related mRNAs - known as RNA regulons - that drive axon growth, axon guidance, injury responses, axon survival and even axonal mitochondrial function. Recent advances point to these different regulatory pathways as organizing platforms that allow the axon's proteome to be modulated to meet its physiological needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Dalla Costa
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Courtney N Buchanan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | | | - Pabitra K Sahoo
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Terika P Smith
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Elizabeth Thames
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Amar N Kar
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Jeffery L Twiss
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA.
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20
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Koppers M, Özkan N, Farías GG. Complex Interactions Between Membrane-Bound Organelles, Biomolecular Condensates and the Cytoskeleton. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:618733. [PMID: 33409284 PMCID: PMC7779554 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.618733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Membrane-bound and membraneless organelles/biomolecular condensates ensure compartmentalization into functionally distinct units enabling proper organization of cellular processes. Membrane-bound organelles form dynamic contacts with each other to enable the exchange of molecules and to regulate organelle division and positioning in coordination with the cytoskeleton. Crosstalk between the cytoskeleton and dynamic membrane-bound organelles has more recently also been found to regulate cytoskeletal organization. Interestingly, recent work has revealed that, in addition, the cytoskeleton and membrane-bound organelles interact with cytoplasmic biomolecular condensates. The extent and relevance of these complex interactions are just beginning to emerge but may be important for cytoskeletal organization and organelle transport and remodeling. In this review, we highlight these emerging functions and emphasize the complex interplay of the cytoskeleton with these organelles. The crosstalk between membrane-bound organelles, biomolecular condensates and the cytoskeleton in highly polarized cells such as neurons could play essential roles in neuronal development, function and maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ginny G. Farías
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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21
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Corradi E, Baudet ML. In the Right Place at the Right Time: miRNAs as Key Regulators in Developing Axons. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228726. [PMID: 33218218 PMCID: PMC7699167 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
During neuronal circuit formation, axons progressively develop into a presynaptic compartment aided by extracellular signals. Axons display a remarkably high degree of autonomy supported in part by a local translation machinery that permits the subcellular production of proteins required for their development. Here, we review the latest findings showing that microRNAs (miRNAs) are critical regulators of this machinery, orchestrating the spatiotemporal regulation of local translation in response to cues. We first survey the current efforts toward unraveling the axonal miRNA repertoire through miRNA profiling, and we reveal the presence of a putative axonal miRNA signature. We also provide an overview of the molecular underpinnings of miRNA action. Our review of the available experimental evidence delineates two broad paradigms: cue-induced relief of miRNA-mediated inhibition, leading to bursts of protein translation, and cue-induced miRNA activation, which results in reduced protein production. Overall, this review highlights how a decade of intense investigation has led to a new appreciation of miRNAs as key elements of the local translation regulatory network controlling axon development.
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22
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Context-Dependent Role of miR-124 in Retinoic Acid-Induced Growth Cone Attraction of Regenerating Motorneurons. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2020; 42:847-869. [PMID: 33094464 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-020-00982-4] [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: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
During development and regeneration, growth cones at the tips of extending axons navigate through a complex environment to establish accurate connections with appropriate targets. Growth cones can respond rapidly to classical and non-classical guidance cues in their environment, often requiring local protein synthesis. In vertebrate growth cones, local protein synthesis in response to classical cues can require regulation by microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small, conserved, non-coding RNAs that post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression. However, less is known of how miRNAs mediate growth cone responses to non-classical cues (such as retinoic acid (RA)), specifically in invertebrates. Here, we utilized adult regenerating invertebrate motorneurons to study miRNA regulation of growth cone attraction to RA, shown to require local protein synthesis. In situ hybridization revealed the presence of miR-124 in growth cones of regenerating ciliary motorneurons of the mollusc Lymnaea stagnalis. Changes in the spatiotemporal distribution of miR-124 occurred following application of RA, and dysregulation of miR-124 (with mimic injection), disrupted RA-induced growth cone turning in a time-dependent manner. This behavioural regulation by miR-124 was altered when the neurite was transected, and the growth cone completely separated from the soma. miR-124 did not, however, appear to be involved in growth cone attraction to serotonin, a response independent of local protein synthesis. Finally, we provide evidence that a downstream effector of RhoGTPases, ROCK, is a potential target of miR-124 during RA-induced growth cone responses. These data advance our current understanding of how microRNAs might mediate cue- and context-dependent behaviours during axon guidance.
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23
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Calió ML, Henriques E, Siena A, Bertoncini CRA, Gil-Mohapel J, Rosenstock TR. Mitochondrial Dysfunction, Neurogenesis, and Epigenetics: Putative Implications for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Neurodegeneration and Treatment. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:679. [PMID: 32760239 PMCID: PMC7373761 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and devastating multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder. Although the pathogenesis of ALS is still not completely understood, numerous studies suggest that mitochondrial deregulation may be implicated in its onset and progression. Interestingly, mitochondrial deregulation has also been associated with changes in neural stem cells (NSC) proliferation, differentiation, and migration. In this review, we highlight the importance of mitochondrial function for neurogenesis, and how both processes are correlated and may contribute to the pathogenesis of ALS; we have focused primarily on preclinical data from animal models of ALS, since to date no studies have evaluated this link using human samples. As there is currently no cure and no effective therapy to counteract ALS, we have also discussed how improving neurogenic function by epigenetic modulation could benefit ALS. In support of this hypothesis, changes in histone deacetylation can alter mitochondrial function, which in turn might ameliorate cellular proliferation as well as neuronal differentiation and migration. We propose that modulation of epigenetics, mitochondrial function, and neurogenesis might provide new hope for ALS patients, and studies exploring these new territories are warranted in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elisandra Henriques
- Department of Physiological Science, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Science, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Amanda Siena
- Department of Physiological Science, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Science, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Clélia Rejane Antonio Bertoncini
- CEDEME, Center of Development of Experimental Models for Medicine and Biology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Joana Gil-Mohapel
- Division of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Victoria and Island Medical Program, University of British Columbia, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Tatiana Rosado Rosenstock
- Department of Physiological Science, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Science, São Paulo, Brazil
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24
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From the Argonauts Mythological Sailors to the Argonautes RNA-Silencing Navigators: Their Emerging Roles in Human-Cell Pathologies. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21114007. [PMID: 32503341 PMCID: PMC7312461 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21114007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulation of gene expression has emerged as a fundamental element of transcript homeostasis. Key effectors in this process are the Argonautes (AGOs), highly specialized RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) that form complexes, such as the RNA-Induced Silencing Complex (RISC). AGOs dictate post-transcriptional gene-silencing by directly loading small RNAs and repressing their mRNA targets through small RNA-sequence complementarity. The four human highly-conserved family-members (AGO1, AGO2, AGO3, and AGO4) demonstrate multi-faceted and versatile roles in transcriptome’s stability, plasticity, and functionality. The post-translational modifications of AGOs in critical amino acid residues, the nucleotide polymorphisms and mutations, and the deregulation of expression and interactions are tightly associated with aberrant activities, which are observed in a wide spectrum of pathologies. Through constantly accumulating information, the AGOs’ fundamental engagement in multiple human diseases has recently emerged. The present review examines new insights into AGO-driven pathology and AGO-deregulation patterns in a variety of diseases such as in viral infections and propagations, autoimmune diseases, cancers, metabolic deficiencies, neuronal disorders, and human infertility. Altogether, AGO seems to be a crucial contributor to pathogenesis and its targeting may serve as a novel and powerful therapeutic tool for the successful management of diverse human diseases in the clinic.
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25
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Expression of Genes Involved in Axon Guidance: How Much Have We Learned? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103566. [PMID: 32443632 PMCID: PMC7278939 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal axons are guided to their target during the development of the brain. Axon guidance allows the formation of intricate neural circuits that control the function of the brain, and thus the behavior. As the axons travel in the brain to find their target, they encounter various axon guidance cues, which interact with the receptors on the tip of the growth cone to permit growth along different signaling pathways. Although many scientists have performed numerous studies on axon guidance signaling pathways, we still have an incomplete understanding of the axon guidance system. Lately, studies on axon guidance have shifted from studying the signal transduction pathways to studying other molecular features of axon guidance, such as the gene expression. These new studies present evidence for different molecular features that broaden our understanding of axon guidance. Hence, in this review we will introduce recent studies that illustrate different molecular features of axon guidance. In particular, we will review literature that demonstrates how axon guidance cues and receptors regulate local translation of axonal genes and how the expression of guidance cues and receptors are regulated both transcriptionally and post-transcriptionally. Moreover, we will highlight the pathological relevance of axon guidance molecules to specific diseases.
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26
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Corradi E, Dalla Costa I, Gavoci A, Iyer A, Roccuzzo M, Otto TA, Oliani E, Bridi S, Strohbuecker S, Santos-Rodriguez G, Valdembri D, Serini G, Abreu-Goodger C, Baudet ML. Axonal precursor miRNAs hitchhike on endosomes and locally regulate the development of neural circuits. EMBO J 2020; 39:e102513. [PMID: 32073171 PMCID: PMC7073465 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2019102513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Various species of non‐coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are enriched in specific subcellular compartments, but the mechanisms orchestrating their localization and their local functions remain largely unknown. We investigated both aspects using the elongating retinal ganglion cell axon and its tip, the growth cone, as models. We reveal that specific endogenous precursor microRNAs (pre‐miRNAs) are actively trafficked to distal axons by hitchhiking primarily on late endosomes/lysosomes. Upon exposure to the axon guidance cue semaphorin 3A (Sema3A), pre‐miRNAs are processed specifically within axons into newly generated miRNAs, one of which, in turn, silences the basal translation of tubulin beta 3 class III (TUBB3), but not amyloid beta precursor protein (APP). At the organismal level, these mature miRNAs are required for growth cone steering and a fully functional visual system. Overall, our results uncover a novel mode of ncRNA transport from one cytosolic compartment to another within polarized cells. They also reveal that newly generated miRNAs are critical components of a ncRNA‐based signaling pathway that transduces environmental signals into the structural remodeling of subcellular compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloina Corradi
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Irene Dalla Costa
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Antoneta Gavoci
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Archana Iyer
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Michela Roccuzzo
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Tegan A Otto
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Eleonora Oliani
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Simone Bridi
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Stephanie Strohbuecker
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | | | - Donatella Valdembri
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Torino, Italy.,Department of Oncology, University of Torino School of Medicine, Candiolo, Italy
| | - Guido Serini
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Torino, Italy.,Department of Oncology, University of Torino School of Medicine, Candiolo, Italy
| | | | - Marie-Laure Baudet
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
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27
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Nawalpuri B, Ravindran S, Muddashetty RS. The Role of Dynamic miRISC During Neuronal Development. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 7:8. [PMID: 32118035 PMCID: PMC7025485 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2020.00008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Activity-dependent protein synthesis plays an important role during neuronal development by fine-tuning the formation and function of neuronal circuits. Recent studies have shown that miRNAs are integral to this regulation because of their ability to control protein synthesis in a rapid, specific and potentially reversible manner. miRNA mediated regulation is a multistep process that involves inhibition of translation before degradation of targeted mRNA, which provides the possibility to store and reverse the inhibition at multiple stages. This flexibility is primarily thought to be derived from the composition of miRNA induced silencing complex (miRISC). AGO2 is likely the only obligatory component of miRISC, while multiple RBPs are shown to be associated with this core miRISC to form diverse miRISC complexes. The formation of these heterogeneous miRISC complexes is intricately regulated by various extracellular signals and cell-specific contexts. In this review, we discuss the composition of miRISC and its functions during neuronal development. Neurodevelopment is guided by both internal programs and external cues. Neuronal activity and external signals play an important role in the formation and refining of the neuronal network. miRISC composition and diversity have a critical role at distinct stages of neurodevelopment. Even though there is a good amount of literature available on the role of miRNAs mediated regulation of neuronal development, surprisingly the role of miRISC composition and its functional dynamics in neuronal development is not much discussed. In this article, we review the available literature on the heterogeneity of the neuronal miRISC composition and how this may influence translation regulation in the context of neuronal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharti Nawalpuri
- Centre for Brain Development and Repair, Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (Instem), Bangalore, India.,School of Chemical and Biotechnology, Shanmugha Arts, Science, and Technology and Research Academy (SASTRA) University, Thanjavur, India
| | - Sreenath Ravindran
- Centre for Brain Development and Repair, Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (Instem), Bangalore, India.,Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Ravi S Muddashetty
- Centre for Brain Development and Repair, Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (Instem), Bangalore, India
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28
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Thelen MP, Kye MJ. The Role of RNA Binding Proteins for Local mRNA Translation: Implications in Neurological Disorders. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 6:161. [PMID: 32010708 PMCID: PMC6974540 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2019.00161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
As neurons are one of the most highly polarized cells in our body, they require sophisticated cellular mechanisms to maintain protein homeostasis in their subcellular compartments such as axons and dendrites. When neuronal protein homeostasis is disturbed due to genetic mutations or deletions, this often results in degeneration of neurons leading to devastating outcome such as spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and fragile X syndrome (FXS). Ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes are macromolecular complexes composed of RNA binding proteins (RBPs) and their target RNAs. RBPs contain RNA binding domains and bind to RNA molecules via specific sequence motifs. RNP complexes have various functions in gene expression including messenger RNA (mRNA) trafficking, RNA processing and silencing. In neurons, RBPs deliver specific sets of mRNAs to subcellular compartments such as axons and dendrites to be locally translated. Mutations or deletions in genes coding for RNPs have been reported as causes for neurological disorders such as SMA, ALS, and FXS. As RBPs determine axonal or dendritic mRNA repertoires as well as proteomes by trafficking selective mRNAs and regulating local protein synthesis, they play a crucial role for neuronal function. In this review, we summarize the role of well-known RBPs, SMN, TDP-43, FUS, and FMRP, and review their function for local protein synthesis in neurons. Furthermore, we discuss their pathological contribution to the neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Min Jeong Kye
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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29
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Altman T, Geller D, Kleeblatt E, Gradus-Perry T, Perlson E. An in vitro compartmental system underlines the contribution of mitochondrial immobility to the ATP supply in the NMJ. J Cell Sci 2019; 132:jcs.234492. [PMID: 31722980 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.234492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is the largest, most-complex synapse in the human body. Motor neuron (MN) diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), specifically target MNs and the NMJs. However, little is known about the reasons for MN-selective neuronal and synaptic vulnerability in MN diseases. Here, utilizing a compartmental microfluidic in vitro co-culture system, we provide a possible explanation for why the NMJ, other than its unusual dimensions, differs from other synapses. By using live-imaging techniques, we discovered that cultured MNs display higher axonal and synaptic mitochondrial immobility compared with sympathetic neurons (SNs), leading to a profound enrichment of mitochondria only in the MN NMJ. Furthermore, by employing a synaptic ATP sensor, we show that mitochondrial respiration is the key contributor to ATP production in MN NMJs but not in SN synapses. Taken together, our data suggest that mitochondrial localization underlies the unique and specific qualities of MN NMJs. Our findings shed light on the role of mitochondria in MN and NMJ maintenance, and possibly indicate how mitochondria may serve as a source for selective MN vulnerability in neurodegenerative diseases.This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Topaz Altman
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Danielle Geller
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Elisabeth Kleeblatt
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Tal Gradus-Perry
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Eran Perlson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel .,Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
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30
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Sanchez R, Yang X, Maher T, Mackenzie SA. Discrimination of DNA Methylation Signal from Background Variation for Clinical Diagnostics. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E5343. [PMID: 31717838 PMCID: PMC6862328 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20215343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in the study of human DNA methylation variation offer a new avenue for the translation of epigenetic research results to clinical applications. Although current approaches to methylome analysis have been helpful in revealing an epigenetic influence in major human diseases, this type of analysis has proven inadequate for the translation of these advances to clinical diagnostics. As in any clinical test, the use of a methylation signal for diagnostic purposes requires the estimation of an optimal cutoff value for the signal, which is necessary to discriminate a signal induced by a disease state from natural background variation. To address this issue, we propose the application of a fundamental signal detection theory and machine learning approaches. Simulation studies and tests of two available methylome datasets from autism and leukemia patients demonstrate the feasibility of this approach in clinical diagnostics, providing high discriminatory power for the methylation signal induced by disease, as well as high classification performance. Specifically, the analysis of whole biomarker genomic regions could suffice for a diagnostic, markedly decreasing its cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robersy Sanchez
- Departments of Biology and Plant Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA; (X.Y.); (T.M.)
| | | | | | - Sally A. Mackenzie
- Departments of Biology and Plant Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA; (X.Y.); (T.M.)
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31
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Liao YC, Fernandopulle MS, Wang G, Choi H, Hao L, Drerup CM, Patel R, Qamar S, Nixon-Abell J, Shen Y, Meadows W, Vendruscolo M, Knowles TPJ, Nelson M, Czekalska MA, Musteikyte G, Gachechiladze MA, Stephens CA, Pasolli HA, Forrest LR, St George-Hyslop P, Lippincott-Schwartz J, Ward ME. RNA Granules Hitchhike on Lysosomes for Long-Distance Transport, Using Annexin A11 as a Molecular Tether. Cell 2019; 179:147-164.e20. [PMID: 31539493 PMCID: PMC6890474 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2019.08.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 291] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Long-distance RNA transport enables local protein synthesis at metabolically-active sites distant from the nucleus. This process ensures an appropriate spatial organization of proteins, vital to polarized cells such as neurons. Here, we present a mechanism for RNA transport in which RNA granules "hitchhike" on moving lysosomes. In vitro biophysical modeling, live-cell microscopy, and unbiased proximity labeling proteomics reveal that annexin A11 (ANXA11), an RNA granule-associated phosphoinositide-binding protein, acts as a molecular tether between RNA granules and lysosomes. ANXA11 possesses an N-terminal low complexity domain, facilitating its phase separation into membraneless RNA granules, and a C-terminal membrane binding domain, enabling interactions with lysosomes. RNA granule transport requires ANXA11, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-associated mutations in ANXA11 impair RNA granule transport by disrupting their interactions with lysosomes. Thus, ANXA11 mediates neuronal RNA transport by tethering RNA granules to actively-transported lysosomes, performing a critical cellular function that is disrupted in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Guozhen Wang
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Heejun Choi
- HHMI Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Seema Qamar
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Jonathon Nixon-Abell
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Yi Shen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK
| | - William Meadows
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
| | | | - Tuomas P J Knowles
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK; Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0HE, UK
| | | | | | - Greta Musteikyte
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Peter St George-Hyslop
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK; Department of Medicine (Division of Neurology), University of Toronto and University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H2, Canada
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32
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The Role of Ceramide and Sphingosine-1-Phosphate in Alzheimer's Disease and Other Neurodegenerative Disorders. Mol Neurobiol 2019; 56:5436-5455. [PMID: 30612333 PMCID: PMC6614129 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-018-1448-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Bioactive sphingolipids-ceramide, sphingosine, and their respective 1-phosphates (C1P and S1P)-are signaling molecules serving as intracellular second messengers. Moreover, S1P acts through G protein-coupled receptors in the plasma membrane. Accumulating evidence points to sphingolipids' engagement in brain aging and in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's diseases and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Metabolic alterations observed in the course of neurodegeneration favor ceramide-dependent pro-apoptotic signaling, while the levels of the neuroprotective S1P are reduced. These trends are observed early in the diseases' development, suggesting causal relationship. Mechanistic evidence has shown links between altered ceramide/S1P rheostat and the production, secretion, and aggregation of amyloid β/α-synuclein as well as signaling pathways of critical importance for the pathomechanism of protein conformation diseases. Sphingolipids influence multiple aspects of Akt/protein kinase B signaling, a pathway that regulates metabolism, stress response, and Bcl-2 family proteins. The cross-talk between sphingolipids and transcription factors including NF-κB, FOXOs, and AP-1 may be also important for immune regulation and cell survival/death. Sphingolipids regulate exosomes and other secretion mechanisms that can contribute to either the spread of neurotoxic proteins between brain cells, or their clearance. Recent discoveries also suggest the importance of intracellular and exosomal pools of small regulatory RNAs in the creation of disturbed signaling environment in the diseased brain. The identified interactions of bioactive sphingolipids urge for their evaluation as potential therapeutic targets. Moreover, the early disturbances in sphingolipid metabolism may deliver easily accessible biomarkers of neurodegenerative disorders.
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