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Faraji P, Kühn H, Ahmadian S. Multiple Roles of Apolipoprotein E4 in Oxidative Lipid Metabolism and Ferroptosis During the Pathogenesis of Alzheimer's Disease. J Mol Neurosci 2024; 74:62. [PMID: 38958788 PMCID: PMC11222241 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-024-02224-4] [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: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease worldwide and has a great socio-economic impact. Modified oxidative lipid metabolism and dysregulated iron homeostasis have been implicated in the pathogenesis of this disorder, but the detailed pathophysiological mechanisms still remain unclear. Apolipoprotein E (APOE) is a lipid-binding protein that occurs in large quantities in human blood plasma, and a polymorphism of the APOE gene locus has been identified as risk factors for AD. The human genome involves three major APOE alleles (APOE2, APOE3, APOE4), which encode for three subtly distinct apolipoprotein E isoforms (APOE2, APOE3, APOE4). The canonic function of these apolipoproteins is lipid transport in blood and brain, but APOE4 allele carriers have a much higher risk for AD. In fact, about 60% of clinically diagnosed AD patients carry at least one APOE4 allele in their genomes. Although the APOE4 protein has been implicated in pathophysiological key processes of AD, such as extracellular beta-amyloid (Aβ) aggregation, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, formation of neurofibrillary tangles, modified oxidative lipid metabolism, and ferroptotic cell death, the underlying molecular mechanisms are still not well understood. As for all mammalian cells, iron plays a crucial role in neuronal functions and dysregulation of iron homeostasis has also been implicated in the pathogenesis of AD. Imbalances in iron homeostasis and impairment of the hydroperoxy lipid-reducing capacity induce cellular dysfunction leading to neuronal ferroptosis. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on APOE4-related oxidative lipid metabolism and the potential role of ferroptosis in the pathogenesis of AD. Pharmacological interference with these processes might offer innovative strategies for therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Faraji
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hartmut Kühn
- Department of Biochemistry, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Shahin Ahmadian
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
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2
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Aranda-Anzaldo A, Dent MAR, Segura-Anaya E, Martínez-Gómez A. Protein folding, cellular stress and cancer. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024:S0079-6107(24)00058-0. [PMID: 38969306 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2024.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
Proteins are acknowledged as the phenotypical manifestation of the genotype, because protein-coding genes carry the information for the strings of amino acids that constitute the proteins. It is widely accepted that protein function depends on the corresponding "native" structure or folding achieved within the cell, and that native protein folding corresponds to the lowest free energy minimum for a given protein. However, protein folding within the cell is a non-deterministic dissipative process that from the same input may produce different outcomes, thus conformational heterogeneity of folded proteins is the rule and not the exception. Local changes in the intracellular environment promote variation in protein folding. Hence protein folding requires "supervision" by a host of chaperones and co-chaperones that help their client proteins to achieve the folding that is most stable according to the local environment. Such environmental influence on protein folding is continuously transduced with the help of the cellular stress responses (CSRs) and this may lead to changes in the rules of engagement between proteins, so that the corresponding protein interactome could be modified by the environment leading to an alternative cellular phenotype. This allows for a phenotypic plasticity useful for adapting to sudden and/or transient environmental changes at the cellular level. Starting from this perspective, hereunder we develop the argument that the presence of sustained cellular stress coupled to efficient CSRs may lead to the selection of an aberrant phenotype as the resulting adaptation of the cellular proteome (and the corresponding interactome) to such stressful conditions, and this can be a common epigenetic pathway to cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armando Aranda-Anzaldo
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular y Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México. Paseo Tollocan y Jesús Carranza s/n, Toluca, 50180, Edo. Méx., México.
| | - Myrna A R Dent
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular y Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México. Paseo Tollocan y Jesús Carranza s/n, Toluca, 50180, Edo. Méx., México
| | - Edith Segura-Anaya
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular y Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México. Paseo Tollocan y Jesús Carranza s/n, Toluca, 50180, Edo. Méx., México
| | - Alejandro Martínez-Gómez
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular y Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México. Paseo Tollocan y Jesús Carranza s/n, Toluca, 50180, Edo. Méx., México
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3
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Singh S, Kachhawaha K, Singh SK. Comprehensive approaches to preclinical evaluation of monoclonal antibodies and their next-generation derivatives. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 225:116303. [PMID: 38797272 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Biotherapeutics hold great promise for the treatment of several diseases and offer innovative possibilities for new treatments that target previously unaddressed medical needs. Despite successful transitions from preclinical to clinical stages and regulatory approval, there are instances where adverse reactions arise, resulting in product withdrawals. As a result, it is essential to conduct thorough evaluations of safety and effectiveness on an individual basis. This article explores current practices, challenges, and future approaches in conducting comprehensive preclinical assessments to ensure the safety and efficacy of biotherapeutics including monoclonal antibodies, toxin-conjugates, bispecific antibodies, single-chain antibodies, Fc-engineered antibodies, antibody mimetics, and siRNA-antibody/peptide conjugates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santanu Singh
- Laboratory of Engineered Therapeutics, School of Biochemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, India
| | - Kajal Kachhawaha
- Laboratory of Engineered Therapeutics, School of Biochemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, India
| | - Sumit K Singh
- Laboratory of Engineered Therapeutics, School of Biochemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, India.
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4
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Sharma M, Pal P, Gupta SK. Advances in Alzheimer's disease: A multifaceted review of potential therapies and diagnostic techniques for early detection. Neurochem Int 2024; 177:105761. [PMID: 38723902 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2024.105761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains one of the most formidable neurological disorders, affecting millions globally. This review provides a holistic overview of the therapeutic strategies, both conventional and novel, aimed at mitigating the impact of AD. Initially, we delve into the conventional approach, emphasizing the role of Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition, which has been a cornerstone in AD management. As our understanding of AD evolves, several novel potential approaches emerge. We discuss the promising roles of Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibition, Tau Protein inhibitors, COX-2 inhibition, PPAR-γ agonism, and FAHH inhibition, among others. The potential of the endocannabinoids (eCB) system, cholesterol-lowering drugs, metal chelators, and MMPs inhibitors are also explored, culminating in the exploration of the pivotal role of microRNA in AD progression. Parallel to these therapeutic insights, we shed light on the novel tools and methodologies revolutionizing AD research. From the quantitative analysis of gene expression by qRTPCR to the evaluation of mitochondrial function using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), the advances in diagnostic and research tools offer renewed hope. Moreover, we explore the current landscape of clinical trials, highlighting the leading drug interventions and their respective stages of development. This comprehensive review concludes with a look into the future perspectives, capturing the potential breakthroughs and innovations on the horizon. Through a synthesis of current knowledge and emerging research, this article aims to provide a consolidated resource for clinicians, researchers, and academicians in the realm of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Sharma
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Pankaj Pal
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Rajasthan, India.
| | - Sukesh Kumar Gupta
- KIET School of Pharmacy, KIET Group of Institutions, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India; Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences (OVAS), School of Medicine, Wayne State University, USA.
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5
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Pádua MS, Guil-Guerrero JL, Lopes PA. Behaviour Hallmarks in Alzheimer's Disease 5xFAD Mouse Model. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6766. [PMID: 38928472 PMCID: PMC11204382 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126766] [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: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The 5xFAD transgenic mouse model widely used in Alzheimer's disease (AD) research recapitulates many AD-related phenotypes with a relatively early onset and aggressive age-dependent progression. Besides developing amyloid peptide deposits alongside neuroinflammation by the age of 2 months, as well as exhibiting neuronal decline by the age of 4 months that intensifies by the age of 9 months, these mice manifest a broad spectrum of behavioural impairments. In this review, we present the extensive repertoire of behavioural dysfunctions in 5xFAD mice, organised into four categories: motor skills, sensory function, learning and memory abilities, and neuropsychiatric-like symptoms. The motor problems, associated with agility and reflex movements, as well as balance and coordination, and skeletal muscle function, typically arise by the time mice reach 9 months of age. The sensory function (such as taste, smell, hearing, and vision) starts to deteriorate when amyloid peptide buildups and neuroinflammation spread into related anatomical structures. The cognitive functions, encompassing learning and memory abilities, such as visual recognition, associative, spatial working, reference learning, and memory show signs of decline from 4 to 6 months of age. Concerning neuropsychiatric-like symptoms, comprising apathy, anxiety and depression, and the willingness for exploratory behaviour, it is believed that motivational changes emerge by approximately 6 months of age. Unfortunately, numerous studies from different laboratories are often contradictory on the conclusions drawn and the identification of onset age, making preclinical studies in rodent models not easily translatable to humans. This variability is likely due to a range of factors associated with animals themselves, housing and husbandry conditions, and experimental settings. In the forthcoming studies, greater clarity in experimental details when conducting behavioural testing in 5xFAD transgenic mice could minimise the inconsistencies and could ensure the reliability and the reproducibility of the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mafalda Soares Pádua
- CIISA—Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal;
- Laboratório Associado para Ciência Animal e Veterinária (AL4AnimalS), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - José L. Guil-Guerrero
- Departamento de Tecnología de Alimentos, Universidad de Almería, 04120 Almería, Spain;
| | - Paula Alexandra Lopes
- CIISA—Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal;
- Laboratório Associado para Ciência Animal e Veterinária (AL4AnimalS), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
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6
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Díaz M. Multifactor Analyses of Frontal Cortex Lipids in the APP/PS1 Model of Familial Alzheimer's Disease Reveal Anomalies in Responses to Dietary n-3 PUFA and Estrogenic Treatments. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:810. [PMID: 38927745 PMCID: PMC11202691 DOI: 10.3390/genes15060810] [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: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain lipid homeostasis is an absolute requirement for proper functionality of nerve cells and neurological performance. Current evidence demonstrates that lipid alterations are linked to neurodegenerative diseases, especially Alzheimer's disease (AD). The complexity of the brain lipidome and its metabolic regulation has hampered the identification of critical processes associated with the onset and progression of AD. While most experimental studies have focused on the effects of known factors on the development of pathological hallmarks in AD, e.g., amyloid deposition, tau protein and neurofibrillary tangles, neuroinflammation, etc., studies addressing the causative effects of lipid alterations remain largely unexplored. In the present study, we have used a multifactor approach combining diets containing different amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), estrogen availabilities, and genetic backgrounds, i.e., wild type (WT) and APP/PS1 (FAD), to analyze the lipid phenotype of the frontal cortex in middle-aged female mice. First, we observed that severe n-3 PUFA deficiency impacts the brain n-3 long-chain PUFA (LCPUFA) composition, yet it was notably mitigated by hepatic de novo synthesis. n-6 LCPUFAs, ether-linked fatty acids, and saturates were also changed by the dietary condition, but the extent of changes was dependent on the genetic background and hormonal condition. Likewise, brain cortex phospholipids were mostly modified by the genotype (FAD>WT) with nuanced effects from dietary treatment. Cholesterol (but not sterol esters) was modified by the genotype (WT>FAD) and dietary condition (higher in DHA-free conditions, especially in WT mice). However, the effects of estrogen treatment were mostly observed in relation to phospholipid remodeling in a genotype-dependent manner. Analyses of lipid-derived variables indicate that nerve cell membrane biophysics were significantly affected by the three factors, with lower membrane microviscosity (higher fluidity) values obtained for FAD animals. In conclusion, our multifactor analyses revealed that the genotype, diet, and estrogen status modulate the lipid phenotype of the frontal cortex, both as independent factors and through their interactions. Altogether, the outcomes point to potential strategies based on dietary and hormonal interventions aimed at stabilizing the brain cortex lipid composition in Alzheimer's disease neuropathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Díaz
- Membrane Physiology and Biophysics, Department of Physics, School of Sciences, University of La Laguna, 38206 Tenerife, Spain; or
- Instituto Universitario de Neurociencias (IUNE), University of La Laguna, 38206 Tenerife, Spain
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7
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Del Rosario Hernandez T, Joshi NR, Gore SV, Kreiling JA, Creton R. Combining supervised and unsupervised analyses to quantify behavioral phenotypes and validate therapeutic efficacy in a triple transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.07.597924. [PMID: 38895269 PMCID: PMC11185760 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.07.597924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Behavioral testing is an essential tool for evaluating cognitive function and dysfunction in preclinical research models. This is of special importance in the study of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. However, the reproducibility of classic behavioral assays is frequently compromised by interstudy variation, leading to ambiguous conclusions about the behavioral markers characterizing the disease. Here, we identify age- and genotype-driven differences between 3xTg-AD and non-transgenic control mice using a low-cost, highly customizable behavioral assay that requires little human intervention. Through behavioral phenotyping combining both supervised and unsupervised behavioral classification methods, we are able to validate the preventative effects of the immunosuppressant cyclosporine A in a rodent model of Alzheimer's disease, as well as the partially ameliorating effects of candidate drugs nebivolol and cabozantinib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thais Del Rosario Hernandez
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States
| | - Narendra R Joshi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States
| | - Sayali V Gore
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States
| | - Jill A Kreiling
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States
| | - Robbert Creton
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States
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8
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Strohm AO, Majewska AK. Physical exercise regulates microglia in health and disease. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1420322. [PMID: 38911597 PMCID: PMC11192042 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1420322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a well-established link between physical activity and brain health. As such, the effectiveness of physical exercise as a therapeutic strategy has been explored in a variety of neurological contexts. To determine the extent to which physical exercise could be most beneficial under different circumstances, studies are needed to uncover the underlying mechanisms behind the benefits of physical activity. Interest has grown in understanding how physical activity can regulate microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system. Microglia are key mediators of neuroinflammatory processes and play a role in maintaining brain homeostasis in healthy and pathological settings. Here, we explore the evidence suggesting that physical activity has the potential to regulate microglia activity in various animal models. We emphasize key areas where future research could contribute to uncovering the therapeutic benefits of engaging in physical exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra O. Strohm
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Ania K. Majewska
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
- Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
- Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
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9
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Kuznetsov AV. Numerical and Analytical Simulation of the Growth of Amyloid-β Plaques. J Biomech Eng 2024; 146:061004. [PMID: 38421364 DOI: 10.1115/1.4064969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Numerical and analytical solutions were employed to calculate the radius of an amyloid-β (Aβ) plaque over time. To the author's knowledge, this study presents the first model simulating the growth of Aβ plaques. Findings indicate that the plaque can attain a diameter of 50 μm after 20 years of growth, provided the Aβ monomer degradation machinery is malfunctioning. A mathematical model incorporates nucleation and autocatalytic growth processes using the Finke-Watzky model. The resulting system of ordinary differential equations was solved numerically, and for the simplified case of infinitely long Aβ monomer half-life, an analytical solution was found. Assuming that Aβ aggregates stick together and using the distance between the plaques as an input parameter of the model, it was possible to calculate the plaque radius from the concentration of Aβ aggregates. This led to the "cube root hypothesis," positing that Aβ plaque size increases proportionally to the cube root of time. This hypothesis helps explain why larger plaques grow more slowly. Furthermore, the obtained results suggest that the plaque size is independent of the kinetic constants governing Aβ plaque agglomeration, indicating that the kinetics of Aβ plaque agglomeration is not a limiting factor for plaque growth. Instead, the plaque growth rate is limited by the rates of Aβ monomer production and degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrey V Kuznetsov
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7910
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10
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Grenon MB, Papavergi MT, Bathini P, Sadowski M, Lemere CA. Temporal Characterization of the Amyloidogenic APPswe/PS1dE9;hAPOE4 Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5754. [PMID: 38891941 PMCID: PMC11172317 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115754] [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: 05/04/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating disorder with a global prevalence estimated at 55 million people. In clinical studies administering certain anti-beta-amyloid (Aβ) antibodies, amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIAs) have emerged as major adverse events. The frequency of these events is higher among apolipoprotein ε4 allele carriers (APOE4) compared to non-carriers. To reflect patients most at risk for vascular complications of anti-Aβ immunotherapy, we selected an APPswe/PS1dE9 transgenic mouse model bearing the human APOE4 gene (APPPS1:E4) and compared it with the same APP/PS1 mouse model bearing the human APOE3 gene (APOE ε3 allele; APPPS1:E3). Using histological and biochemical analyses, we characterized mice at three ages: 8, 12, and 16 months. Female and male mice were assayed for general cerebral fibrillar and pyroglutamate (pGlu-3) Aβ deposition, cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), microhemorrhages, apoE and cholesterol composition, astrocytes, microglia, inflammation, lysosomal dysfunction, and neuritic dystrophy. Amyloidosis, lipid deposition, and astrogliosis increased with age in APPPS1:E4 mice, while inflammation did not reveal significant changes with age. In general, APOE4 carriers showed elevated Aβ, apoE, reactive astrocytes, pro-inflammatory cytokines, microglial response, and neuritic dystrophy compared to APOE3 carriers at different ages. These results highlight the potential of the APPPS1:E4 mouse model as a valuable tool in investigating the vascular side effects associated with anti-amyloid immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martine B. Grenon
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.B.G.); (M.-T.P.); (P.B.)
- Section Neuropsychology & Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Maria-Tzousi Papavergi
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.B.G.); (M.-T.P.); (P.B.)
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNs), Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Praveen Bathini
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.B.G.); (M.-T.P.); (P.B.)
| | - Martin Sadowski
- Departments of Neurology, Psychiatry, and Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA;
| | - Cynthia A. Lemere
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.B.G.); (M.-T.P.); (P.B.)
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11
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Kajimura Y, Tessari A, Orlacchio A, Thoms A, Cufaro MC, Marco FD, Amari F, Chen M, Soliman SHA, Rizzotto L, Zhang L, Amann J, Carbone DP, Ahmed A, Fiermonte G, Freitas M, Lodi A, Boccio PD, Palmieri D, Coppola V. An in vivo "turning model" reveals new RanBP9 interactions in lung macrophages. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.22.595416. [PMID: 38826292 PMCID: PMC11142189 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.22.595416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
The biological functions of the scaffold protein Ran Binding Protein 9 (RanBP9) remain elusive in macrophages or any other cell type where this protein is expressed together with its CTLH (C-terminal to LisH) complex partners. We have engineered a new mouse model, named RanBP9-TurnX, where RanBP9 fused to three copies of the HA tag (RanBP9-3xHA) can be turned into RanBP9-V5 tagged upon Cre-mediated recombination. We created this model to enable stringent biochemical studies at cell type specific level throughout the entire organism. Here, we have used this tool crossed with LysM-Cre transgenic mice to identify RanBP9 interactions in lung macrophages. We show that RanBP9-V5 and RanBP9-3xHA can be both co-immunoprecipitated with the known members of the CTLH complex from the same whole lung lysates. However, more than ninety percent of the proteins pulled down by RanBP9-V5 differ from those pulled-down by RanBP9-HA. The lung RanBP9-V5 associated proteome includes previously unknown interactions with macrophage-specific proteins as well as with players of the innate immune response, DNA damage response, metabolism, and mitochondrial function. This work provides the first lung specific RanBP9-associated interactome in physiological conditions and reveals that RanBP9 and the CTLH complex could be key regulators of macrophage bioenergetics and immune functions.
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Kanoh T, Mizoguchi T, Tonoki A, Itoh M. Modeling of age-related neurological disease: utility of zebrafish. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1399098. [PMID: 38765773 PMCID: PMC11099255 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1399098] [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: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Many age-related neurological diseases still lack effective treatments, making their understanding a critical and urgent issue in the globally aging society. To overcome this challenge, an animal model that accurately mimics these diseases is essential. To date, many mouse models have been developed to induce age-related neurological diseases through genetic manipulation or drug administration. These models help in understanding disease mechanisms and finding potential therapeutic targets. However, some age-related neurological diseases cannot be fully replicated in human pathology due to the different aspects between humans and mice. Although zebrafish has recently come into focus as a promising model for studying aging, there are few genetic zebrafish models of the age-related neurological disease. This review compares the aging phenotypes of humans, mice, and zebrafish, and provides an overview of age-related neurological diseases that can be mimicked in mouse models and those that cannot. We presented the possibility that reproducing human cerebral small vessel diseases during aging might be difficult in mice, and zebrafish has potential to be another animal model of such diseases due to their similarity of aging phenotype to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tohgo Kanoh
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takamasa Mizoguchi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ayako Tonoki
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Motoyuki Itoh
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Research Institute of Disaster Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Health and Disease Omics Center, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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13
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Pucci IM, Aguiar AF, Pucci RM, Casonatto J, Borghi SM. Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on the effects of exercise interventions on amyloid beta levels in humans. Exp Brain Res 2024; 242:1011-1024. [PMID: 38551691 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-024-06821-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) represents the most common type of dementia. A crucial mechanism attributed to its development is amyloid beta (Aβ) dynamics dysregulation. The extent to which exercise can modulate this phenomenon is uncertain. The aim of this study was to summarize the existing literature evaluating this issue. A comprehensive systematic search was performed in Pubmed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and SciELO databases and completed in August 2023, aiming to identify randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of exercise upon Aβ-related pathology. The keywords "exercise" and "amyloid beta", as well as all their equivalents and similar terms, were used. For the analysis, the negative or positive dementia status of the subjects was initially considered and then the soluble amyloid precursor protein (sAPP) components and Aβ fragments separately. A meta-analysis was performed and involved eight studies (moderate-to-high quality) and 644 assessments, which were 297 for control and 347 for exercise. No overall effect favoring exercise interventions was observed for both negative (SMD95%=0,286 [-0,131; 0,704]; p = 0,179) or positive AD dementia status (SMD95%=0,110 [-0,155; 0,375]; p = 0,416). The absence of an overall effect favoring exercise interventions was also found for Aβ peptides (SMD95%=0,226 [-0,028; 0,480]; p = 0,081) and for sAPP components (SMD95%=-0,038 50 [-0,472; 0,396]; p = 0,863) levels. Our findings suggest that exercise interventions do not improve Aβ-related pathology in both healthy individuals and individuals with dementia (SMD95%=0,157 [-0,059; 0,373]; p = 0,155), indicating that the beneficial effects of exercise for AD reported in previous studies are related to other mechanistic effects rather than direct amyloid effects (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023426912).
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabela Mayer Pucci
- Center for Research in Health Sciences, Universidade Norte do Paraná (Unopar), Paraná, Londrina, 86041-140, Brazil
| | - Andreo F Aguiar
- Center for Research in Health Sciences, Universidade Norte do Paraná (Unopar), Paraná, Londrina, 86041-140, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo M Pucci
- Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS), Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Cuiabá, 79070-900, Brazil
| | - Juliano Casonatto
- Center for Research in Health Sciences, Universidade Norte do Paraná (Unopar), Paraná, Londrina, 86041-140, Brazil
| | - Sergio Marques Borghi
- Center for Research in Health Sciences, Universidade Norte do Paraná (Unopar), Paraná, Londrina, 86041-140, Brazil.
- Department of Pathology, Biological Sciences Center, Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL), Paraná State, Londrina, 86057-970, Brazil.
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14
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Chen JH, Yin X, He H, Lu LW, Wang M, Liu B, Cheng KW. Potential neuroprotective benefits of plant-based fermented foods in Alzheimer's disease: an update on preclinical evidence. Food Funct 2024; 15:3920-3938. [PMID: 38517682 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo03805j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) currently lacks effective treatments, making its prevention a critical focus. While accumulating evidence supports that plant-based fermented foods may contribute to AD prevention, the neuroprotective effect of plant-based fermented foods on AD has not been comprehensively reviewed. In this study, we conducted a systematic review of preclinical studies on the efficacy of plant-based fermented foods in AD. The literature search was based on databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus. The PICO approach was employed for report inclusion, and each report was assessed for risk of bias using the SYRCLE's RoB tool. From the analysis of 25 retrieved reports, we extracted essential details, including bibliographic information, animal models and characteristics, sources of plant-based fermented foods, dosages, administration routes, durations, and outcome measures. Our findings indicate that plant-based fermented foods may positively impact acute and long-term cognitive function, as well as beta-amyloid-mediated neurodegeneration. This review sheds light on the potential neuroprotective benefits of plant-based fermented foods for various AD-related aspects, including oxidative stress, synaptotoxicity, neuroinflammation, tau hyperphosphorylation, dysfunctional amyloidogenic pathways, and cognitive deficits, as observed in rodent models of AD. However, the small number of studies obtained from our literature search and the finding that many of them were of moderate methodological quality suggest the need for further investigation to substantiate the beneficial potential of this class of functional food for the management of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie-Hua Chen
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Microbiome Engineering, Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Institute for Innovative Development of Food Industry, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Xuan Yin
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Microbiome Engineering, Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- College of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Hui He
- School of Medicine, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Louise Weiwei Lu
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University, of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Mingfu Wang
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Microbiome Engineering, Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Institute for Innovative Development of Food Industry, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Microbiome Engineering, Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Institute for Innovative Development of Food Industry, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Ka-Wing Cheng
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Microbiome Engineering, Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Institute for Innovative Development of Food Industry, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
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15
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Miskalis A, Shirguppe S, Winter J, Elias G, Swami D, Nambiar A, Stilger M, Woods WS, Gosstola N, Gapinske M, Zeballos A, Moore H, Maslov S, Gaj T, Perez-Pinera P. SPLICER: A Highly Efficient Base Editing Toolbox That Enables In Vivo Therapeutic Exon Skipping. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.01.587650. [PMID: 38883727 PMCID: PMC11178003 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.01.587650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Exon skipping technologies enable exclusion of targeted exons from mature mRNA transcripts, which has broad applications in molecular biology, medicine, and biotechnology. Existing exon skipping techniques include antisense oligonucleotides, targetable nucleases, and base editors, which, while effective for specific applications at some target exons, remain hindered by shortcomings, including transient effects for oligonucleotides, genotoxicity for nucleases and inconsistent exon skipping for base editors. To overcome these limitations, we created SPLICER, a toolbox of next-generation base editors consisting of near-PAMless Cas9 nickase variants fused to adenosine or cytosine deaminases for the simultaneous editing of splice acceptor (SA) and splice donor (SD) sequences. Synchronized SA and SD editing with SPLICER improves exon skipping, reduces aberrant outcomes, including cryptic splicing and intron retention, and enables skipping of exons refractory to single splice-site editing. To demonstrate the therapeutic potential of SPLICER, we targeted APP exon 17, which encodes the amino acid residues that are cleaved to form the Aβ plaques in Alzheimer's disease. SPLICER reduced the formation of Aβ42 peptides in vitro and enabled efficient exon skipping in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Overall, SPLICER is a widely applicable and efficient toolbox for exon skipping with broad therapeutic applications.
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16
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Krut' VG, Kalinichenko AL, Maltsev DI, Jappy D, Shevchenko EK, Podgorny OV, Belousov VV. Optogenetic and chemogenetic approaches for modeling neurological disorders in vivo. Prog Neurobiol 2024; 235:102600. [PMID: 38548126 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2024.102600] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Animal models of human neurological disorders provide valuable experimental tools which enable us to study various aspects of disorder pathogeneses, ranging from structural abnormalities and disrupted metabolism and signaling to motor and mental deficits, and allow us to test novel therapies in preclinical studies. To be valid, these animal models should recapitulate complex pathological features at the molecular, cellular, tissue, and behavioral levels as closely as possible to those observed in human subjects. Pathological states resembling known human neurological disorders can be induced in animal species by toxins, genetic factors, lesioning, or exposure to extreme conditions. In recent years, novel animal models recapitulating neuropathologies in humans have been introduced. These animal models are based on synthetic biology approaches: opto- and chemogenetics. In this paper, we review recent opto- and chemogenetics-based animal models of human neurological disorders. These models allow for the creation of pathological states by disrupting specific processes at the cellular level. The artificial pathological states mimic a range of human neurological disorders, such as aging-related dementia, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, epilepsy, and ataxias. Opto- and chemogenetics provide new opportunities unavailable with other animal models of human neurological disorders. These techniques enable researchers to induce neuropathological states varying in severity and ranging from acute to chronic. We also discuss future directions for the development and application of synthetic biology approaches for modeling neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoriya G Krut'
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow 117997, Russia; Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Andrei L Kalinichenko
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Dmitry I Maltsev
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow 117997, Russia; Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow 117997, Russia; Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - David Jappy
- Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Evgeny K Shevchenko
- Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Oleg V Podgorny
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow 117997, Russia; Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow 117997, Russia; Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 117997, Russia.
| | - Vsevolod V Belousov
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow 117997, Russia; Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow 117997, Russia; Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 117997, Russia; Life Improvement by Future Technologies (LIFT) Center, Skolkovo, Moscow 143025, Russia.
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17
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Korczyn AD, Grinberg LT. Is Alzheimer disease a disease? Nat Rev Neurol 2024; 20:245-251. [PMID: 38424454 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-024-00940-4] [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] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Dementia, a prevalent condition among older individuals, has profound societal implications. Extensive research has resulted in no cure for what is perceived as the most common dementing illness: Alzheimer disease (AD). AD is defined by specific brain abnormalities - amyloid-β plaques and tau protein neurofibrillary tangles - that are proposed to actively influence the neurodegenerative process. However, conclusive evidence of amyloid-β toxicity is lacking, the mechanisms leading to the accumulation of plaques and tangles are unknown, and removing amyloid-β has not halted neurodegeneration. So, the question remains, are we making progress towards a solution? The complexity of AD is underscored by numerous genetic and environmental risk factors, and diverse clinical presentations, suggesting that AD is more akin to a syndrome than to a traditional disease, with its pathological manifestation representing a convergence of pathogenic pathways. Therefore, a solution requires a multifaceted approach over a single 'silver bullet'. Improved recognition and classification of conditions that converge in plaques and tangle accumulation and their treatment requires the use of multiple strategies simultaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amos D Korczyn
- Departments of Neurology, Physiology and Pharmacology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Lea T Grinberg
- Departments of Neurology and Pathology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Global Brain Health Institute, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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18
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Xiang R, Wang Y, Shuey MM, Carvajal B, Wells QS, Beckman JA, Jaffe IZ. Development and Implementation of an Integrated Preclinical Atherosclerosis Database. CIRCULATION. GENOMIC AND PRECISION MEDICINE 2024; 17:e004397. [PMID: 38563135 PMCID: PMC11021141 DOI: 10.1161/circgen.123.004397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Basic scientists have used preclinical animal models to explore mechanisms driving human diseases for decades, resulting in thousands of publications, each supporting causative inferences. Despite substantial advances in the mechanistic construct of disease, there has been limited translation from individual studies to advances in clinical care. An integrated approach to these individual studies has the potential to improve translational success. METHODS Using atherosclerosis as a test case, we extracted data from the 2 most common mouse models of atherosclerosis (ApoE [apolipoprotein E]-knockout and LDLR [low-density lipoprotein receptor]-knockout). We restricted analyses to manuscripts published in 2 well-established journals, Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology and Circulation, as of query in 2021. Predefined variables including experimental conditions, intervention, and outcomes were extracted from each publication to produce a preclinical atherosclerosis database. RESULTS Extracted data include animal sex, diet, intervention type, and distinct plaque pathologies (size, inflammation, and lipid content). Procedures are provided to standardize data extraction, attribute interventions to specific genes, and transform the database for use with available transcriptomics software. The database integrates hundreds of genes, each directly tested in vivo for causation in a murine atherosclerosis model. The database is provided to allow the research community to perform integrated analyses that reflect the global impact of decades of atherosclerosis investigation. CONCLUSIONS This database is provided as a resource for future interrogation of sub-data sets associated with distinct plaque pathologies, cell type, or sex. We also provide the methods and software needed to expand this data set and apply this approach to the extensive repository of peer-reviewed data utilizing preclinical models to interrogate mechanisms of diverse human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Xiang
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | - Yihua Wang
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | - Megan M. Shuey
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Brigett Carvajal
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | - Quinn S. Wells
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Joshua A. Beckman
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Iris Z. Jaffe
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA
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19
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Bratke S, Schmid S, Ulm B, Jungwirth B, Blobner M, Borgstedt L. Genotype- and sex-specific changes in vital parameters during isoflurane anesthesia in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1342752. [PMID: 38601113 PMCID: PMC11004241 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1342752] [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: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases is increasing as is life expectancy with Alzheimer's disease accounting for two-thirds of dementia cases globally. Whether general anesthesia and surgery worsen cognitive decline is still a matter of debate and most likely depending on the interplay of various influencing factors. In order to account for this complexity, Alzheimer's disease animal models have been developed. The Tg2576 model of Alzheimer's disease is a well-established mouse model exhibiting amyloidopathy and age-dependent sex-specific differences in Alzheimer's disease symptomology. Yet, data on anesthesia in this mouse model is scarce and a systematic comparison of vital parameters during anesthesia with wild-type animals is missing. In order to investigate the safety of general anesthesia and changes in vital parameters during general anesthesia in Tg2576 mice, we did a secondary analysis of vital parameters collected during general anesthesia in aged Tg2576 mice. Methods After governmental approval (General Administration of the Free State of Bavaria, file number: 55.2-1-54-2532-149-11) 60 mice at 10-12 months of age were exposed to isoflurane (1.6 Vol%) for 120 min, data of 58 mice was analyzed. During general anesthesia, heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, isoflurane concentration and fraction of inspired oxygen were monitored and collected. Data were analyzed using univariate and multivariate linear mixed regression models. Results During general anesthesia, heart rate decreased in a sex-specific manner. Respiratory rate decreased and body temperature increased dependent on genotype. However, the changes were limited and all vital parameters stayed within physiological limits. Conclusion Isoflurane anesthesia in the Tg2576 mouse model is safe and does not seem to influence experimental results by interacting with vital parameters. The present study provides information on appropriate anesthesia in order to advance research on anesthesia and AD and could contribute to improving laboratory animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Bratke
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Sebastian Schmid
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Bernhard Ulm
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Bettina Jungwirth
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Manfred Blobner
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Laura Borgstedt
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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20
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Puris E, Saveleva L, Auriola S, Gynther M, Kanninen KM, Fricker G. Sex-specific changes in protein expression of membrane transporters in the brain cortex of 5xFAD mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1365051. [PMID: 38572427 PMCID: PMC10989684 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1365051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Membrane transporters playing an important role in the passage of drugs, metabolites and nutrients across the membranes of the brain cells have been shown to be involved in pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, little is known about sex-specific changes in transporter protein expression at the brain in AD. Here, we investigated sex-specific alterations in protein expression of three ATP-binding cassette (ABC) and five solute carriers (SLC) transporters in the prefrontal cortex of a commonly used model of familial AD (FAD), 5xFAD mice. Sensitive liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry-based quantitative targeted absolute proteomic analysis was applied for absolute quantification of transporter protein expression. We compared the changes in transporter protein expressions in 7-month-old male and female 5xFAD mice versus sex-matched wild-type mice. The study revealed a significant sex-specific increase in protein expression of ABCC1 (p = 0.007) only in male 5xFAD mice as compared to sex-matched wild-type animals. In addition, the increased protein expression of glucose transporter 1 (p = 0.01), 4F2 cell-surface antigen heavy chain (p = 0.01) and long-chain fatty acid transport protein 1 (p = 0.02) were found only in female 5xFAD mice as compared to sex-matched wild-type animals. Finally, protein expression of alanine/serine/cysteine/threonine transporter 1 was upregulated in both male (p = 0.02) and female (p = 0.002) 5xFAD mice. The study provides important information about sex-specific changes in brain cortical transporter expression in 5xFAD mice, which will facilitate drug development of therapeutic strategies for AD targeting these transporters and drug delivery research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Puris
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Ruprecht-Karls-University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Liudmila Saveleva
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Seppo Auriola
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Mikko Gynther
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Katja M. Kanninen
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Gert Fricker
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Ruprecht-Karls-University, Heidelberg, Germany
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21
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Davis E, Lloyd AF. The proteomic landscape of microglia in health and disease. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1379717. [PMID: 38560294 PMCID: PMC10978577 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1379717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglia are the resident immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS) and as such play crucial roles in regulating brain homeostasis. Their presence in neurodegenerative diseases is known, with neurodegeneration-associated risk genes heavily expressed in microglia, highlighting their importance in contributing to disease pathogenesis. Transcriptomics studies have uncovered the heterogeneous landscape of microglia in health and disease, identifying important disease-associated signatures such as DAM, and insight into both the regional and temporal diversity of microglia phenotypes. Quantitative mass spectrometry methods are ever increasing in the field of neurodegeneration, utilised as ways to identify disease biomarkers and to gain deeper understanding of disease pathology. Proteins are the main mechanistic indicators of cellular function, yet discordance between transcript and proteomic findings has highlighted the need for in-depth proteomic phenotypic and functional analysis to fully understand disease kinetics at the cellular and molecular level. This review details the current progress of using proteomics to define microglia biology, the relationship between gene and protein expression in microglia, and the future of proteomics and emerging methods aiming to resolve heterogeneous cell landscapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Davis
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amy F. Lloyd
- Cell Signalling and Immunology, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
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22
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Armbrust F, Bickenbach K, Altmeppen H, Foggetti A, Winkelmann A, Wulff P, Glatzel M, Pietrzik CU, Becker-Pauly C. A novel mouse model for N-terminal truncated Aβ2-x generation through meprin β overexpression in astrocytes. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:139. [PMID: 38480559 PMCID: PMC10937767 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05139-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Neurotoxic amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides cause neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients' brains. They are released upon proteolytic processing of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) extracellularly at the β-secretase site and intramembranously at the γ-secretase site. Several AD mouse models were developed to conduct respective research in vivo. Most of these classical models overexpress human APP with mutations driving AD-associated pathogenic APP processing. However, the resulting pattern of Aβ species in the mouse brains differs from those observed in AD patients' brains. Particularly mutations proximal to the β-secretase cleavage site (e.g., the so-called Swedish APP (APPswe) fostering Aβ1-x formation) lead to artificial Aβ production, as N-terminally truncated Aβ peptides are hardly present in these mouse brains. Meprin β is an alternative β-secretase upregulated in brains of AD patients and capable of generating N-terminally truncated Aβ2-x peptides. Therefore, we aimed to generate a mouse model for the production of so far underestimated Aβ2-x peptides by conditionally overexpressing meprin β in astrocytes. We chose astrocytes as meprin β was detected in this cell type in close proximity to Aβ plaques in AD patients' brains. The meprin β-overexpressing mice showed elevated amyloidogenic APP processing detected with a newly generated neo-epitope-specific antibody. Furthermore, we observed elevated Aβ production from endogenous APP as well as AD-related behavior changes (hyperlocomotion and deficits in spatial memory). The novel mouse model as well as the established tools and methods will be helpful to further characterize APP cleavage and the impact of different Aβ species in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred Armbrust
- Biochemical Institute, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, University of Kiel, Otto-Hahn-Platz 9, 24118, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Kira Bickenbach
- Biochemical Institute, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, University of Kiel, Otto-Hahn-Platz 9, 24118, Kiel, Germany
| | - Hermann Altmeppen
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Angelica Foggetti
- Institute of Physiology, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Haining, 314400, China
- College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Anne Winkelmann
- Biochemical Institute, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, University of Kiel, Otto-Hahn-Platz 9, 24118, Kiel, Germany
| | - Peer Wulff
- Institute of Physiology, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Markus Glatzel
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Claus U Pietrzik
- Institute for Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Christoph Becker-Pauly
- Biochemical Institute, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, University of Kiel, Otto-Hahn-Platz 9, 24118, Kiel, Germany.
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23
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Amartumur S, Nguyen H, Huynh T, Kim TS, Woo RS, Oh E, Kim KK, Lee LP, Heo C. Neuropathogenesis-on-chips for neurodegenerative diseases. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2219. [PMID: 38472255 PMCID: PMC10933492 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46554-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Developing diagnostics and treatments for neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) is challenging due to multifactorial pathogenesis that progresses gradually. Advanced in vitro systems that recapitulate patient-like pathophysiology are emerging as alternatives to conventional animal-based models. In this review, we explore the interconnected pathogenic features of different types of ND, discuss the general strategy to modelling NDs using a microfluidic chip, and introduce the organoid-on-a-chip as the next advanced relevant model. Lastly, we overview how these models are being applied in academic and industrial drug development. The integration of microfluidic chips, stem cells, and biotechnological devices promises to provide valuable insights for biomedical research and developing diagnostic and therapeutic solutions for NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarnai Amartumur
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Huong Nguyen
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Thuy Huynh
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Testaverde S Kim
- Center for Integrated Nanostructure Physics (CINAP), Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Ran-Sook Woo
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon, 34824, Korea
| | - Eungseok Oh
- Department of Neurology, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, 35015, Korea
| | - Kyeong Kyu Kim
- Department of Precision Medicine, Graduate School of Basic Medical Science (GSBMS), Institute for Anti-microbial Resistance Research and Therapeutics, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Luke P Lee
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea.
- Harvard Medical School, Division of Engineering in Medicine and Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
| | - Chaejeong Heo
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea.
- Center for Integrated Nanostructure Physics (CINAP), Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Suwon, 16419, Korea.
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24
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Grandjean J, Lake EMR, Pagani M, Mandino F. What N Is N-ough for MRI-Based Animal Neuroimaging? eNeuro 2024; 11:ENEURO.0531-23.2024. [PMID: 38499355 PMCID: PMC10950324 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0531-23.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Fueled by the recent and controversial brain-wide association studies in humans, the animal neuroimaging community has also begun questioning whether using larger sample sizes is necessary for ethical and effective scientific progress. In this opinion piece, we illustrate two opposing views on sample size extremes in MRI-based animal neuroimaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanes Grandjean
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Nijmegen 6500HB, The Netherlands
- Department for Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen 6500HB, The Netherlands
| | - Evelyn M R Lake
- Departments of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, New Haven, Connecticut 06519
- Biomedical Engineering, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06519
| | - Marco Pagani
- Functional Neuroimaging Laboratory, Center for Neuroscience and Cognitive Systems, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rovereto 38068, Italy
- IMT School for Advanced Studies, Lucca 55100, Italy
| | - Francesca Mandino
- Departments of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, New Haven, Connecticut 06519
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25
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Meneghetti N, Vannini E, Mazzoni A. Rodents' visual gamma as a biomarker of pathological neural conditions. J Physiol 2024; 602:1017-1048. [PMID: 38372352 DOI: 10.1113/jp283858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Neural gamma oscillations (indicatively 30-100 Hz) are ubiquitous: they are associated with a broad range of functions in multiple cortical areas and across many animal species. Experimental and computational works established gamma rhythms as a global emergent property of neuronal networks generated by the balanced and coordinated interaction of excitation and inhibition. Coherently, gamma activity is strongly influenced by the alterations of synaptic dynamics which are often associated with pathological neural dysfunctions. We argue therefore that these oscillations are an optimal biomarker for probing the mechanism of cortical dysfunctions. Gamma oscillations are also highly sensitive to external stimuli in sensory cortices, especially the primary visual cortex (V1), where the stimulus dependence of gamma oscillations has been thoroughly investigated. Gamma manipulation by visual stimuli tuning is particularly easy in rodents, which have become a standard animal model for investigating the effects of network alterations on gamma oscillations. Overall, gamma in the rodents' visual cortex offers an accessible probe on dysfunctional information processing in pathological conditions. Beyond vision-related dysfunctions, alterations of gamma oscillations in rodents were indeed also reported in neural deficits such as migraine, epilepsy and neurodegenerative or neuropsychiatric conditions such as Alzheimer's, schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders. Altogether, the connections between visual cortical gamma activity and physio-pathological conditions in rodent models underscore the potential of gamma oscillations as markers of neuronal (dys)functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Meneghetti
- The Biorobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Excellence for Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Eleonora Vannini
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Alberto Mazzoni
- The Biorobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Excellence for Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
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26
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Paniri A, Hosseini MM, Akhavan-Niaki H. Alzheimer's Disease-Related Epigenetic Changes: Novel Therapeutic Targets. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:1282-1317. [PMID: 37700216 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03626-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Aging is a significant risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD), although the precise mechanism and molecular basis of AD are not yet fully understood. Epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation, mitochondrial DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), play a role in regulating gene expression related to neuron plasticity and integrity, which are closely associated with learning and memory development. This review describes the impact of dynamic and reversible epigenetic modifications and factors on memory and plasticity throughout life, emphasizing their potential as target for therapeutic intervention in AD. Additionally, we present insight from postmortem and animal studies on abnormal epigenetics regulation in AD, as well as current strategies aiming at targeting these factors in the context of AD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Paniri
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
- Zoonoses Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Amol, Iran
| | | | - Haleh Akhavan-Niaki
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
- Zoonoses Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Amol, Iran.
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27
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Pádua MS, Guil-Guerrero JL, Prates JAM, Lopes PA. Insights on the Use of Transgenic Mice Models in Alzheimer's Disease Research. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2805. [PMID: 38474051 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), the leading cause of dementia, presents a significant global health challenge with no known cure to date. Central to our understanding of AD pathogenesis is the β-amyloid cascade hypothesis, which underlies drug research and discovery efforts. Despite extensive studies, no animal models of AD have completely validated this hypothesis. Effective AD models are essential for accurately replicating key pathological features of the disease, notably the formation of β-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. These pathological markers are primarily driven by mutations in the amyloid precursor protein (APP) and presenilin 1 (PS1) genes in familial AD (FAD) and by tau protein mutations for the tangle pathology. Transgenic mice models have been instrumental in AD research, heavily relying on the overexpression of mutated APP genes to simulate disease conditions. However, these models do not entirely replicate the human condition of AD. This review aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the historical and ongoing research efforts in AD, particularly through the use of transgenic mice models. It is focused on the benefits gathered from these transgenic mice models in understanding β-amyloid toxicity and the broader biological underpinnings of AD. Additionally, the review critically assesses the application of these models in the preclinical testing of new therapeutic interventions, highlighting the gap between animal models and human clinical realities. This analysis underscores the need for refinement in AD research methodologies to bridge this gap and enhance the translational value of preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mafalda Soares Pádua
- CIISA-Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratório Associado para Ciência Animal e Veterinária (AL4AnimalS), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - José L Guil-Guerrero
- Departamento de Tecnología de Alimentos, Universidad de Almería, 04120 Almería, Spain
| | - José A M Prates
- CIISA-Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratório Associado para Ciência Animal e Veterinária (AL4AnimalS), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Paula Alexandra Lopes
- CIISA-Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratório Associado para Ciência Animal e Veterinária (AL4AnimalS), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
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28
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Ifediora N, Canoll P, Hargus G. Human stem cell transplantation models of Alzheimer's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1354164. [PMID: 38450383 PMCID: PMC10915253 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1354164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most frequent form of dementia. It is characterized by pronounced neuronal degeneration with formation of neurofibrillary tangles and deposition of amyloid β throughout the central nervous system. Animal models have provided important insights into the pathogenesis of AD and they have shown that different brain cell types including neurons, astrocytes and microglia have important functions in the pathogenesis of AD. However, there are difficulties in translating promising therapeutic observations in mice into clinical application in patients. Alternative models using human cells such as human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) may provide significant advantages, since they have successfully been used to model disease mechanisms in neurons and in glial cells in neurodegenerative diseases in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we summarize recent studies that describe the transplantation of human iPSC-derived neurons, astrocytes and microglial cells into the forebrain of mice to generate chimeric transplantation models of AD. We also discuss opportunities, challenges and limitations in using differentiated human iPSCs for in vivo disease modeling and their application for biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nkechime Ifediora
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Peter Canoll
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Gunnar Hargus
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
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29
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Hu D, Weiner HL. Unraveling the dual nature of brain CD8 + T cells in Alzheimer's disease. Mol Neurodegener 2024; 19:16. [PMID: 38355649 PMCID: PMC10865558 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-024-00706-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Hu
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 02115, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Howard L Weiner
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 02115, Boston, MA, USA.
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30
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Zhang S, Guo Z, Xu Y, Mi J, Liu J, Li Z, Xie X, Xu G. Transcranial magneto-acoustic stimulation improves spatial memory and modulates hippocampal neural oscillations in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1313639. [PMID: 38384480 PMCID: PMC10879395 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1313639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction In our study, we applied transcranial magneto-acoustic stimulation (TMAS), a technique based on focused ultrasound stimulation within a static magnetic field, in the APP/PS1 mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (AD) to explore the feasibility of TMAS on improving AD related spatial memory deficits and abnormal neural oscillations. Methods The mice treated with TMAS once daily for 21 days. We recorded local field potential signals in the hippocampal CA1 region of the mice after TMAS treatment with in-vivo electrophysiology and evaluated the neural rehabilitative effect of TMAS with sharp-wave ripple (SWR), gamma oscillations during SWRs, and phase-amplitude coupling (PAC). The spatial memory function of the mice was examined by the Morris water maze (MWM) task. Results We found that TMAS improved the performance of MWM related spatial cognitive functions compared with AD group. Furthermore, our results implied that TMAS alleviated abnormalities in hippocampal SWRs, increased slow gamma power during SWRs, and promoted theta-slow gamma phase-amplitude coupling. These findings suggest that TMAS could have a positive influence on spatial memory through the modulation of neural oscillations. Discussion This work emphasizes the potential of TMAS to serve as a non-invasive method for Alzheimer's disease rehabilitation and promote the application of TMAS for the treatment of more neurological and brain aging diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reliability and Intelligence of Electrical Equipment, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
- Hebei key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetism and Neural Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetic Technology and Intelligent Health, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhongsheng Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reliability and Intelligence of Electrical Equipment, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
- Hebei key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetism and Neural Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetic Technology and Intelligent Health, Tianjin, China
| | - Yihao Xu
- Hebei key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetism and Neural Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetic Technology and Intelligent Health, Tianjin, China
| | - Jinrui Mi
- Hebei key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetism and Neural Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetic Technology and Intelligent Health, Tianjin, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Hebei key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetism and Neural Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetic Technology and Intelligent Health, Tianjin, China
| | - Zichun Li
- Hebei key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetism and Neural Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetic Technology and Intelligent Health, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaofeng Xie
- Hebei key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetism and Neural Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetic Technology and Intelligent Health, Tianjin, China
| | - Guizhi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reliability and Intelligence of Electrical Equipment, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
- Hebei key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetism and Neural Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetic Technology and Intelligent Health, Tianjin, China
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31
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Papazoglou A, Henseler C, Weickhardt S, Teipelke J, Papazoglou P, Daubner J, Schiffer T, Krings D, Broich K, Hescheler J, Sachinidis A, Ehninger D, Scholl C, Haenisch B, Weiergräber M. Sex- and region-specific cortical and hippocampal whole genome transcriptome profiles from control and APP/PS1 Alzheimer's disease mice. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296959. [PMID: 38324617 PMCID: PMC10849391 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296959] [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: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
A variety of Alzheimer's disease (AD) mouse models has been established and characterized within the last decades. To get an integrative view of the sophisticated etiopathogenesis of AD, whole genome transcriptome studies turned out to be indispensable. Here we carried out microarray data collection based on RNA extracted from the retrosplenial cortex and hippocampus of age-matched, eight months old male and female APP/PS1 AD mice and control animals to perform sex- and brain region specific analysis of transcriptome profiles. The results of our studies reveal novel, detailed insight into differentially expressed signature genes and related fold changes in the individual APP/PS1 subgroups. Gene ontology and Venn analysis unmasked that intersectional, upregulated genes were predominantly involved in, e.g., activation of microglial, astrocytic and neutrophilic cells, innate immune response/immune effector response, neuroinflammation, phagosome/proteasome activation, and synaptic transmission. The number of (intersectional) downregulated genes was substantially less in the different subgroups and related GO categories included, e.g., the synaptic vesicle docking/fusion machinery, synaptic transmission, rRNA processing, ubiquitination, proteasome degradation, histone modification and cellular senescence. Importantly, this is the first study to systematically unravel sex- and brain region-specific transcriptome fingerprints/signature genes in APP/PS1 mice. The latter will be of central relevance in future preclinical and clinical AD related studies, biomarker characterization and personalized medicinal approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Papazoglou
- Experimental Neuropsychopharmacology, Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte, BfArM), Bonn, Germany
| | - Christina Henseler
- Experimental Neuropsychopharmacology, Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte, BfArM), Bonn, Germany
| | - Sandra Weickhardt
- Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte, BfArM), Bonn, Germany
| | - Jenni Teipelke
- Experimental Neuropsychopharmacology, Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte, BfArM), Bonn, Germany
| | - Panagiota Papazoglou
- Experimental Neuropsychopharmacology, Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte, BfArM), Bonn, Germany
| | - Johanna Daubner
- Experimental Neuropsychopharmacology, Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte, BfArM), Bonn, Germany
| | - Teresa Schiffer
- Experimental Neuropsychopharmacology, Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte, BfArM), Bonn, Germany
| | - Damian Krings
- Experimental Neuropsychopharmacology, Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte, BfArM), Bonn, Germany
| | - Karl Broich
- Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte, BfArM), Bonn, Germany
| | - Jürgen Hescheler
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Neurophysiology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Center of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Agapios Sachinidis
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Neurophysiology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Center of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Dan Ehninger
- Translational Biogerontology, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen, DZNE), Bonn, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen, DZNE), Bonn, Germany
| | - Catharina Scholl
- Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte, BfArM), Bonn, Germany
| | - Britta Haenisch
- Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte, BfArM), Bonn, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen, DZNE), Bonn, Germany
- Center for Translational Medicine, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Marco Weiergräber
- Experimental Neuropsychopharmacology, Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte, BfArM), Bonn, Germany
- Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte, BfArM), Bonn, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Neurophysiology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Center of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Liu JY, Dai Y, He YX, Lin L. Effect of berberine on cognitive function and β-amyloid precursor protein in Alzheimer's disease models: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1301102. [PMID: 38293672 PMCID: PMC10824956 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1301102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Berberine is an isoquinoline alkaloid extracted from Berberis vulgaris, which possesses a variety of pharmacological activities. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex disease with multiple pathologic factors, with cognitive decline being the main manifestation of AD. The neuroprotective effects of berberine in animal models of Alzheimer's disease (AD) have been widely reported, exhibiting protective effects against risk factors associated with AD. In this study, we summarize and evaluate the effects of berberine on cognitive function and β-amyloid precursor protein in animal models of AD. Material and methods: Eligible studies were retrieved from PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases up to 1 June 2023. Risk of bias was assessed by the Systematic Review Center for Laboratory Animal Experiments (SYRCLE). Statistical analyses were performed using STATA 14.0 and Review Manger 5.4 software to calculate weighted standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), Morris water maze (MWM) test and β-amyloid precursor protein as outcome measures. Heterogeneity was tested using the I2 test. Sensitivity analysis and publication bias were also assessed. Results: 19 studies involving 360 animals met the inclusion criteria, and the results of the meta-analysis showed that berberine decreased escape latency (SMD = -2.19, 95% CI: (-2.50, -1.88), p < 0.00001), increased the number of platform crossings (SMD = 4.27, 95% CI (3.38, 5.17), p < 0.00001), time in the target quadrant (SMD = 5.92, 95% CI (4.43, 7.41), p < 0.00001) and APP expression (SMD = 0.73, 95% CI: (0.25, 1.21), p = 0.003). Conclusion: Berberine can regulate APP expression and improve cognitive function in animal models of AD, and the mechanism may be related to the involvement of berberine in APP processing and influence the expression of its related factors. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO, CRD42023437445.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Yang Liu
- School of Elderly Health, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- School of Nursing, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yu Dai
- Chengdu Eighth People’s Hospital (Geriatric Hospital of Chengdu Medical College), Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yao-Xi He
- School of Elderly Health, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- School of Nursing, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lin Lin
- School of Elderly Health, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Chengdu Eighth People’s Hospital (Geriatric Hospital of Chengdu Medical College), Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Sichuan Collaborative Innovation Center for Elderly Care and Health, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Batista AF, Khan KA, Papavergi MT, Lemere CA. The Importance of Complement-Mediated Immune Signaling in Alzheimer's Disease Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:817. [PMID: 38255891 PMCID: PMC10815224 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
As an essential component of our innate immune system, the complement system is responsible for our defense against pathogens. The complement cascade has complex roles in the central nervous system (CNS), most of what we know about it stems from its role in brain development. However, in recent years, numerous reports have implicated the classical complement cascade in both brain development and decline. More specifically, complement dysfunction has been implicated in neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is the most common form of dementia. Synapse loss is one of the main pathological hallmarks of AD and correlates with memory impairment. Throughout the course of AD progression, synapses are tagged with complement proteins and are consequently removed by microglia that express complement receptors. Notably, astrocytes are also capable of secreting signals that induce the expression of complement proteins in the CNS. Both astrocytes and microglia are implicated in neuroinflammation, another hallmark of AD pathogenesis. In this review, we provide an overview of previously known and newly established roles for the complement cascade in the CNS and we explore how complement interactions with microglia, astrocytes, and other risk factors such as TREM2 and ApoE4 modulate the processes of neurodegeneration in both amyloid and tau models of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- André F. Batista
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (A.F.B.); (K.A.K.); (M.-T.P.)
| | - Khyrul A. Khan
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (A.F.B.); (K.A.K.); (M.-T.P.)
| | - Maria-Tzousi Papavergi
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (A.F.B.); (K.A.K.); (M.-T.P.)
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNs), Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Cynthia A. Lemere
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (A.F.B.); (K.A.K.); (M.-T.P.)
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Abdelmaksoud NM, Sallam AAM, Abulsoud AI, El-Dakroury WA, Abdel Mageed SS, Al-Noshokaty TM, Elrebehy MA, Elshaer SS, Mahmoud NA, Fathi D, Rizk NI, Elballal MS, Mohammed OA, Abdel-Reheim MA, Zaki MB, Saber S, Doghish AS. Unraveling the role of miRNAs in the diagnosis, progression, and therapeutic intervention of Alzheimer's disease. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 253:155007. [PMID: 38061270 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.155007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifaceted, advancing neurodegenerative illness that is responsible for most cases of neurological impairment and dementia in the aged population. As the disease progresses, affected individuals may experience cognitive decline, linguistic problems, affective instability, and behavioral changes. The intricate nature of AD reflects the altered molecular mechanisms participating in the affected human brain. MicroRNAs (miRNAs, miR) are essential for the intricate control of gene expression in neurobiology. miRNAs exert their influence by modulating the transcriptome of brain cells, which typically exhibit substantial genetic activity, encompassing gene transcription and mRNA production. Presently, comprehensive studies are being conducted on AD to identify miRNA-based signatures that are indicative of the disease pathophysiology. These findings can contribute to the advancement of our understanding of the mechanisms underlying this disorder and can inform the development of therapeutic interventions based on miRNA and related RNA molecules. Therefore, this comprehensive review provides a detailed holistic analysis of the latest advances discussing the emerging role of miRNAs in the progression of AD and their possible application as potential biomarkers and targets for therapeutic interventions in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Al-Aliaa M Sallam
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Ahmed I Abulsoud
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt; Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City 11231, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Walaa A El-Dakroury
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Sherif S Abdel Mageed
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Tohada M Al-Noshokaty
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud A Elrebehy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Shereen Saeid Elshaer
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo 11823, Egypt
| | - Naira Ali Mahmoud
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Doaa Fathi
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt
| | - Nehal I Rizk
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo 11785, Egypt
| | - Mohammed S Elballal
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Osama A Mohammed
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mustafa Ahmed Abdel-Reheim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Shaqra University, Shaqra 11961, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni, Suef 62521, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed Bakr Zaki
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sadat City, Menoufia 32897, Egypt
| | - Sameh Saber
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa 11152, Egypt
| | - Ahmed S Doghish
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt; Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City 11231, Cairo, Egypt.
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Polis B, Samson AO. Addressing the Discrepancies Between Animal Models and Human Alzheimer's Disease Pathology: Implications for Translational Research. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 98:1199-1218. [PMID: 38517793 DOI: 10.3233/jad-240058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Animal models, particularly transgenic mice, are extensively used in Alzheimer's disease (AD) research to emulate key disease hallmarks, such as amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles formation. Although these models have contributed to our understanding of AD pathogenesis and can be helpful in testing potential therapeutic interventions, their reliability is dubious. While preclinical studies have shown promise, clinical trials often yield disappointing results, highlighting a notable gap and disparity between animal models and human AD pathology. Existing models frequently overlook early-stage human pathologies and other key AD characteristics, thereby limiting their application in identifying optimal therapeutic interventions. Enhancing model reliability necessitates rigorous study design, comprehensive behavioral evaluations, and biomarker utilization. Overall, a nuanced understanding of each model's neuropathology, its fidelity to human AD, and its limitations is essential for accurate interpretation and successful translation of findings. This article analyzes the discrepancies between animal models and human AD pathology that complicate the translation of findings from preclinical studies to clinical applications. We also delve into AD pathogenesis and attributes to propose a new perspective on this pathology and deliberate over the primary limitations of key experimental models. Additionally, we discuss several fundamental problems that may explain the translational failures and suggest some possible directions for more effective preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baruh Polis
- Bar-Ilan University Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Safed, Israel
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Kozin SA, Kechko OI, Adzhubei AA, Makarov AA, Mitkevich VA. Switching On/Off Amyloid Plaque Formation in Transgenic Animal Models of Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:72. [PMID: 38203242 PMCID: PMC10778642 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
A hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD) are the proteinaceous aggregates formed by the amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ) that is deposited inside the brain as amyloid plaques. The accumulation of aggregated Aβ may initiate or enhance pathologic processes in AD. According to the amyloid hypothesis, any agent that has the capability to inhibit Aβ aggregation and/or destroy amyloid plaques represents a potential disease-modifying drug. In 2023, a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody (lecanemab) against the Aβ-soluble protofibrils was approved by the US FDA for AD therapy, thus providing compelling support to the amyloid hypothesis. To acquire a deeper insight on the in vivo Aβ aggregation, various animal models, including aged herbivores and carnivores, non-human primates, transgenic rodents, fish and worms were widely exploited. This review is based on the recent data obtained using transgenic animal AD models and presents experimental verification of the critical role in Aβ aggregation seeding of the interactions between zinc ions, Aβ with the isomerized Asp7 (isoD7-Aβ) and the α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey A. Kozin
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (O.I.K.); (A.A.A.); (A.A.M.)
| | | | | | | | - Vladimir A. Mitkevich
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (O.I.K.); (A.A.A.); (A.A.M.)
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Dhapola R, Kumari S, Sharma P, HariKrishnaReddy D. Insight into the emerging and common experimental in-vivo models of Alzheimer's disease. Lab Anim Res 2023; 39:33. [PMID: 38082453 PMCID: PMC10712122 DOI: 10.1186/s42826-023-00184-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial, rapidly progressing neurodegenerative disorder. As the exact cause of the disease is still unclear, the drug development is very challenging. This review encompasses the commonly used AD models involving various chemicals, heavy metals and endogenous substances induced models and the transgenic models. It also provides insight into the reliable emerging models of AD that may overcome the shortcomings associated with available models. Chemicals like streptozotocin, scopolamine, colchicine and okadaic acid render the animal susceptible to neuroinflammation and oxidative stress induced neurodegeneration along with amyloid-β deposition and tau hyperphosphorylation. Similarly, endogenous substances like acrolein and amyloid-β 1-42 are efficient in inducing the major pathologies of AD. Heavy metals like aluminum and fluoride and mixture of these have been reported to induce neurotoxicity therefore are used as animal models for AD. Transgenic models developed as a result of knock-in or knock-out of certain genes associated with AD including PDAPP, APP23, Tg2576, APP/PS1, 3 × Tg and 5 × FAD have also been incorporated in this study. Further, emerging and advanced pathomimetic models of AD are provided particular interest here which will add on to the current knowledge of animal models and may aid in the drug development process and deepen our understanding related to AD pathogenesis. These newly discovered models include oAβ25-35 model, transgenic model expressing 82-kDa ChAT, oDGal mouse and APP knock-in rat. This study may aid in the selection of suitable model for development of novel potent therapeutics and for exploring detailed pathogenic mechanism of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishika Dhapola
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Health Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India
| | - Sneha Kumari
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Health Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India
| | - Prajjwal Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Health Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India
| | - Dibbanti HariKrishnaReddy
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Health Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India.
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Jeffs QL, Prather JF, Todd WD. Potential neural substrates underlying circadian and olfactory disruptions in preclinical Alzheimer's disease. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1295998. [PMID: 38094003 PMCID: PMC10716239 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1295998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia, with over 45 million patients worldwide, and poses significant economic and emotional burdens to both patients and caregivers, significantly raising the number of those affected. Unfortunately, much of the existing research on the disease only addresses a small subset of associated symptomologies and pathologies. In this review, we propose to target the earliest stages of the disease, when symptomology first arises. In these stages, before the onset of hallmark symptoms of AD such as cognitive impairments and memory loss, circadian and olfactory disruptions arise and are detectable. Functional similarities between circadian and olfactory systems provide a basis upon which to seek out common mechanisms in AD which may target them early on in the disease. Existing studies of interactions between these systems, while intriguing, leave open the question of the neural substrates underlying them. Potential substrates for such interactions are proposed in this review, such as indirect projections that may functionally connect the two systems and dopaminergic signaling. These substrates may have significant implications for mechanisms underlying disruptions to circadian and olfactory function in early stages of AD. In this review, we propose early detection of AD using a combination of circadian and olfactory deficits and subsequent early treatment of these deficits may provide profound benefits to both patients and caregivers. Additionally, we suggest that targeting research toward the intersection of these two systems in AD could uncover mechanisms underlying the broader set of symptoms and pathologies that currently elude researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - William D. Todd
- Department of Zoology and Physiology, Program in Neuroscience, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, United States
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Qin H, Zhou L, Haque FT, Martin-Jimenez C, Trang A, Benveniste EN, Wang Q. Diverse signaling mechanisms and heterogeneity of astrocyte reactivity in Alzheimer's disease. J Neurochem 2023. [PMID: 37932959 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.16002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) affects various brain cell types, including astrocytes, which are the most abundant cell types in the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes not only provide homeostatic support to neurons but also actively regulate synaptic signaling and functions and become reactive in response to CNS insults through diverse signaling pathways including the JAK/STAT, NF-κB, and GPCR-elicited pathways. The advent of new technology for transcriptomic profiling at the single-cell level has led to increasing recognition of the highly versatile nature of reactive astrocytes and the context-dependent specificity of astrocyte reactivity. In AD, reactive astrocytes have long been observed in senile plaques and have recently been suggested to play a role in AD pathogenesis and progression. However, the precise contributions of reactive astrocytes to AD remain elusive, and targeting this complex cell population for AD treatment poses significant challenges. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of astrocyte reactivity and its role in AD, with a particular focus on the signaling pathways that promote astrocyte reactivity and the heterogeneity of reactive astrocytes. Furthermore, we explore potential implications for the development of therapeutics for AD. Our objective is to shed light on the complex involvement of astrocytes in AD and offer insights into potential therapeutic targets and strategies for treating and managing this devastating neurodegenerative disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Qin
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Lianna Zhou
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Faris T Haque
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Cynthia Martin-Jimenez
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Amy Trang
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Etty N Benveniste
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
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Jafarzadeh A, Sheikhi A, Jafarzadeh Z, Nemati M. Differential roles of regulatory T cells in Alzheimer's disease. Cell Immunol 2023; 393-394:104778. [PMID: 37907046 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2023.104778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells interact with a variety of resident cells and infiltrated immune cells in the central nervous system (CNS) to modulate neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Extracellular amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide deposition and secondary persistent inflammation due to activation of microglia, astrocytes, and infiltrated immune cells contribute to Alzheimer's disease (AD)-related neurodegeneration. The majority of evidence supports the neuroprotective effects of Treg cells in AD. In the early stages of AD, appropriate Treg cell activity is required for the induction of microglia and astrocyte phagocytic activity in order to clear A deposits and prevent neuroinflammation. Such neuroprotective impacts were in part attributed to the ability of Treg cells to suppress deleterious and/or boost beneficial functions of microglia/astrocytes. In the later stages of AD, an effective Treg cell activity needs to prevent neurotoxicity and neurodegeneration. Treg cells can exert preventive effects on Th1-, and Th17 cell-related pathologic responses, whilst potentiating Th2-mediated protective activity. The impaired Treg cell-related immunomodulatory mechanisms have been described in AD patients and in related animal models which can contribute to the onset and progression of AD. This review aimed to provide a comprehensive figure regarding the role of Treg cells in AD while highlighting potential therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdollah Jafarzadeh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Applied Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Abdolkarim Sheikhi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Dezful University of Medical Sciences, Dezful, Iran
| | - Zahra Jafarzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Maryam Nemati
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Department of Hematology and Laboratory Sciences, School of Para-Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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41
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Dejean C, Dupont T, Verpy E, Gonçalves N, Coqueran S, Michalski N, Pucheu S, Bourgeron T, Gourévitch B. Detecting Central Auditory Processing Disorders in Awake Mice. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1539. [PMID: 38002499 PMCID: PMC10669832 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13111539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Mice are increasingly used as models of human-acquired neurological or neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease. All these conditions involve central auditory processing disorders, which have been little investigated despite their potential for providing interesting insights into the mechanisms behind such disorders. Alterations of the auditory steady-state response to 40 Hz click trains are associated with an imbalance between neuronal excitation and inhibition, a mechanism thought to be common to many neurological disorders. Here, we demonstrate the value of presenting click trains at various rates to mice with chronically implanted pins above the inferior colliculus and the auditory cortex for obtaining easy, reliable, and long-lasting access to subcortical and cortical complex auditory processing in awake mice. Using this protocol on a mutant mouse model of autism with a defect of the Shank3 gene, we show that the neural response is impaired at high click rates (above 60 Hz) and that this impairment is visible subcortically-two results that cannot be obtained with classical protocols for cortical EEG recordings in response to stimulation at 40 Hz. These results demonstrate the value and necessity of a more complete investigation of central auditory processing disorders in mouse models of neurological or neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Dejean
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, INSERM, Institut de l’Audition, Plasticity of Central Auditory Circuits, F-75012 Paris, France
- Cilcare Company, F-34080 Montpellier, France
- Sorbonne Université, Ecole Doctorale Complexité du Vivant, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Typhaine Dupont
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, INSERM, Institut de l’Audition, Plasticity of Central Auditory Circuits, F-75012 Paris, France
| | - Elisabeth Verpy
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS, IUF, Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Noémi Gonçalves
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, INSERM, Institut de l’Audition, Plasticity of Central Auditory Circuits, F-75012 Paris, France
| | - Sabrina Coqueran
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS, IUF, Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Michalski
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, INSERM, Institut de l’Audition, Plasticity of Central Auditory Circuits, F-75012 Paris, France
| | | | - Thomas Bourgeron
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS, IUF, Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Boris Gourévitch
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, INSERM, Institut de l’Audition, Plasticity of Central Auditory Circuits, F-75012 Paris, France
- CNRS, F-75016 Paris, France
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Corraliza-Gomez M, Bermejo T, Lilue J, Rodriguez-Iglesias N, Valero J, Cozar-Castellano I, Arranz E, Sanchez D, Ganfornina MD. Insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) as a modulator of microglial phenotypes in the context of Alzheimer's disease and brain aging. J Neuroinflammation 2023; 20:233. [PMID: 37817156 PMCID: PMC10566021 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-023-02914-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) is an evolutionarily conserved zinc-dependent metallopeptidase highly expressed in the brain, where its specific functions remain poorly understood. Besides insulin, IDE is able to cleave many substrates in vitro, including amyloid beta peptides, making this enzyme a candidate pathophysiological link between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). These antecedents led us to address the impact of IDE absence in hippocampus and olfactory bulb. A specific induction of microgliosis was found in the hippocampus of IDE knockout (IDE-KO) mice, without any effects in neither hippocampal volume nor astrogliosis. Performance on hippocampal-dependent memory tests is influenced by IDE gene dose in 12-month-old mice. Furthermore, a comprehensive characterization of the impact of IDE haploinsufficiency and total deletion in metabolic, behavioral, and molecular parameters in the olfactory bulb, a site of high insulin receptor levels, reveals an unambiguous barcode for IDE-KO mice at that age. Using wildtype and IDE-KO primary microglial cultures, we performed a functional analysis at the cellular level. IDE absence alters microglial responses to environmental signals, resulting in impaired modulation of phenotypic states, with only transitory effects on amyloid-β management. Collectively, our results reveal previously unknown physiological functions for IDE in microglia that, due to cell-compartment topological reasons, cannot be explained by its enzymatic activity, but instead modulate their multidimensional response to various damaging conditions relevant to aging and AD conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Corraliza-Gomez
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Genética Molecular, Excellence Unit, University of Valladolid-CSIC, Valladolid, Spain.
| | - Teresa Bermejo
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Genética Molecular, Excellence Unit, University of Valladolid-CSIC, Valladolid, Spain
| | | | - Noelia Rodriguez-Iglesias
- Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Science Park of the UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
- Department of Neurosciences, University of the Basque Country, Leioa, Spain
| | - Jorge Valero
- Institute of Neuroscience of Castilla y León-INCyL, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Irene Cozar-Castellano
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Genética Molecular, Excellence Unit, University of Valladolid-CSIC, Valladolid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo Arranz
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Genética Molecular, Excellence Unit, University of Valladolid-CSIC, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Diego Sanchez
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Genética Molecular, Excellence Unit, University of Valladolid-CSIC, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Maria Dolores Ganfornina
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Genética Molecular, Excellence Unit, University of Valladolid-CSIC, Valladolid, Spain
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Ryan SK, Ugalde CL, Rolland AS, Skidmore J, Devos D, Hammond TR. Therapeutic inhibition of ferroptosis in neurodegenerative disease. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:674-688. [PMID: 37657967 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Iron accumulation has been associated with the etiology and progression of multiple neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). The exact role of iron in these diseases is not fully understood, but an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death called ferroptosis could be key. Although there is substantial preclinical and clinical evidence that ferroptosis plays a role in NDD, there are still questions regarding how to target ferroptosis therapeutically, including which proteins to target, identification of clinically relevant biomarkers, and which patients might benefit most. Clinical trials of iron- and ferroptosis-targeted therapies are beginning to provide some answers, but there is growing interest in developing new ferroptosis inhibitors. We describe newly identified ferroptosis targets, opportunities, and challenges in NDD, as well as key considerations for progressing new therapeutics to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean K Ryan
- Sanofi, Rare and Neurologic Diseases, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Cathryn L Ugalde
- The ALBORADA Drug Discovery Institute, University of Cambridge, Island Research Building, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0AH, UK
| | - Anne-Sophie Rolland
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Expert Center of Parkinson's Disease, ALS, and Neurogenetics, University of Lille, LilNCog, Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, INSERM UMR S1172, CHU de Lille, LICEND, COEN, Center, NS-PARK Network, France
| | - John Skidmore
- The ALBORADA Drug Discovery Institute, University of Cambridge, Island Research Building, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0AH, UK
| | - David Devos
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Expert Center of Parkinson's Disease, ALS, and Neurogenetics, University of Lille, LilNCog, Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, INSERM UMR S1172, CHU de Lille, LICEND, COEN, Center, NS-PARK Network, France
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Harrington JS, Ryter SW, Plataki M, Price DR, Choi AMK. Mitochondria in health, disease, and aging. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:2349-2422. [PMID: 37021870 PMCID: PMC10393386 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00058.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 87.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are well known as organelles responsible for the maintenance of cellular bioenergetics through the production of ATP. Although oxidative phosphorylation may be their most important function, mitochondria are also integral for the synthesis of metabolic precursors, calcium regulation, the production of reactive oxygen species, immune signaling, and apoptosis. Considering the breadth of their responsibilities, mitochondria are fundamental for cellular metabolism and homeostasis. Appreciating this significance, translational medicine has begun to investigate how mitochondrial dysfunction can represent a harbinger of disease. In this review, we provide a detailed overview of mitochondrial metabolism, cellular bioenergetics, mitochondrial dynamics, autophagy, mitochondrial damage-associated molecular patterns, mitochondria-mediated cell death pathways, and how mitochondrial dysfunction at any of these levels is associated with disease pathogenesis. Mitochondria-dependent pathways may thereby represent an attractive therapeutic target for ameliorating human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- John S Harrington
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States
| | | | - Maria Plataki
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States
| | - David R Price
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States
| | - Augustine M K Choi
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States
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Widjaya MA, Liu CH, Lee SD, Cheng WC. Transcriptomics Meta-Analysis Reveals Phagosome and Innate Immune System Dysfunction as Potential Mechanisms in the Cortex of Alzheimer's Disease Mouse Strains. J Mol Neurosci 2023; 73:773-786. [PMID: 37733230 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-023-02152-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Immune-related pathways can affect the immune system directly, such as the chemokine signaling pathway, or indirectly, such as the phagosome pathway. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is reportedly associated with several immune-related pathways. However, exploring its underlying mechanism is challenging in animal studies because AD mouse strains differentially express immune-related pathway characteristics. To overcome this problem, we performed a meta-analysis to identify significant and consistent immune-related AD pathways that are expressed in different AD mouse strains. Next-generation RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and microarray datasets for the cortex of AD mice from different strains such as APP/PSEN1, APP/PS2, 3xTg, TREM, and 5xFAD were collected from the NCBI GEO database. Each dataset's quality control and normalization were already processed from each original study source using various methods depending on the high-throughput analysis platform (FastQC, median of ratios, RMA, between array normalization). Datasets were analyzed using DESeq2 for RNA-seq and GEO2R for microarray to identify differentially expressed (DE) genes. Significantly DE genes were meta-analyzed using Stouffer's method, with significant genes further analyzed for functional enrichment. Ten datasets representing 20 conditions were obtained from the NCBI GEO database, comprising 116 control and 120 AD samples. The DE analysis identified 284 significant DE genes. The meta-analysis identified three significantly enriched immune-related AD pathways: phagosome, the complement and coagulation cascade, and chemokine signaling. Phagosomes-related genes correlated with complement and immune system. Meanwhile, phagosomes and chemokine signaling genes overlapped with B cells receptors pathway genes indicating potential correlation between phagosome, chemokines, and adaptive immune system as well. The transcriptomic meta-analysis showed that AD is associated with immune-related pathways in the brain's cortex through the phagosome, complement and coagulation cascade, and chemokine signaling pathways. Interestingly, phagosome and chemokine signaling pathways had potential correlation with B cells receptors pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Anekson Widjaya
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hsin Liu
- Cancer Biology and Precision Therapeutics Center, China Medical University and Academia Sinica China Medical University, Taichung, 40403, Taiwan
| | - Shin-Da Lee
- Department of Physical Therapy, PhD program in Healthcare Science, China Medical University, Taichung, 406040, Taiwan.
| | - Wei-Chung Cheng
- Cancer Biology and Precision Therapeutics Center, China Medical University and Academia Sinica China Medical University, Taichung, 40403, Taiwan.
- Ph.D. Program for Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, China Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taichung, Taiwan.
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Wu YH, Hsieh HL. Effects of Redox Homeostasis and Mitochondrial Damage on Alzheimer's Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1816. [PMID: 37891895 PMCID: PMC10604635 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12101816] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Bioenergetic mitochondrial dysfunction is a common feature of several diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), where redox imbalance also plays an important role in terms of disease development. AD is an age-related disease and begins many years before the appearance of neurodegenerative symptoms. Intracellular tau aggregation, extracellular β-amyloid (Aβ) deposition in the brain, and even the APOE4 genotype contribute to the process of AD by impairing redox homeostasis and mitochondrial dysfunction. This review summarizes the evidence for the redox imbalance and mitochondrial dysfunction in AD and demonstrates the current therapeutic strategies related to mitochondrial maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Hsuan Wu
- Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan or
| | - Hsi-Lung Hsieh
- Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan or
- Department of Nursing, Division of Basic Medical Sciences, Graduate Institute of Health Industry Technology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
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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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Xiang R, Wang Y, Shuey MM, Carvajal B, Wells QS, Beckman JA, Jaffe IZ. Development and implementation of an integrated preclinical atherosclerosis database. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.12.557423. [PMID: 37745476 PMCID: PMC10515845 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.12.557423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Background Basic scientists have used preclinical animal models to explore mechanisms driving human diseases for decades, resulting in thousands of publications, each supporting causative inferences. Despite substantial advances in the mechanistic construct of disease, there has been limited translation from individual studies to advances in clinical care. An integrated approach to these individual studies has the potential to improve translational success. Methods Using atherosclerosis as a test case, we extracted data from the two most common mouse models of atherosclerosis (ApoE and LDLR knockout). We restricted analyses to manuscripts published in two well-established journals, Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology and Circulation, as of query in 2021. Predefined variables including experimental conditions, intervention and outcomes were extracted from each publication to produce a preclinical atherosclerosis database. Results Extracted data include animal sex, diet, intervention type and distinct plaque pathologies (size, inflammation, lipid content). Procedures are provided to standardize data extraction, attribute interventions to specific genes and transform the database for use with available transcriptomics software. The database integrates hundreds of genes, each directly tested in vivo for causation in a murine atherosclerosis model. The database is provided to allow the research community to perform integrated analyses that reflect the global impact of decades of atherosclerosis investigation. Conclusions Future database uses include interrogation of sub-datasets associated with distinct plaque pathologies, cell-type or sex. We provide the methods and software needed to apply this approach to the extensive repository of peer-reviewed data utilizing preclinical models to interrogate mechanisms of diverse human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Xiang
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | - Yihua Wang
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | - Megan M. Shuey
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Brigett Carvajal
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | - Quinn S. Wells
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Joshua A. Beckman
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Iris Z. Jaffe
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA
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Sefiani A. Morphological screens using aged primary adult neuronal, microglial, and astrocytic cultures to find novel neurotherapeutics. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1253192. [PMID: 37692551 PMCID: PMC10484707 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1253192] [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: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The average age of a patient with neurotraumatic injuries or neurodegenerative diseases has been increasing worldwide. The preclinical live animal models used for neurotrauma and neurodegenerative diseases are typically young adults, failing to represent the age of humans in the clinic. This dichotomy in age between human populations and animal models is likely to impede the understanding of the pathological mechanisms of most neurological disorders and the translation of their respective promising therapies. This lack of cohesion between animal models and patients in the clinic begins prior to in vivo testing, it starts during the in vitro drug screening phase. Conventional screening methods typically involve the use of stem cell derived neural cells, with some researchers using embryonic derived neural cells instead. These cells lack the fundamental characteristics present in aged neural cells, such as age-induced changes in process length and branching in microglia and how astrocytes respond to various insults. Various technologies and techniques have been developed recently that can help researchers use age-appropriate neural cells for their drug discovery endeavors. The use of age-appropriate neural cells during screening phases is hypothesized to significantly increase the translation rate of the hits to the geriatric patients suffering from neurotraumatic and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Sefiani
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, TX, United States
- NeuroCreis, Inc., College Station, TX, United States
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Nowell J, Blunt E, Gupta D, Edison P. Antidiabetic agents as a novel treatment for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 89:101979. [PMID: 37328112 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disorders have commonly targeted individual aspects of the disease pathogenesis to little success. Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), are characterized by several pathological features. In AD and PD, there is an abnormal accumulation of toxic proteins, increased inflammation, decreased synaptic function, neuronal loss, increased astrocyte activation, and perhaps a state of insulin resistance. Epidemiological evidence has revealed a link between AD/PD and type 2 diabetes mellitus, with these disorders sharing some pathological commonalities. Such a link has opened up a promising avenue for repurposing antidiabetic agents in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. A successful therapeutic strategy for AD/PD would likely require a single or several agents which target the separate pathological processes in the disease. Targeting cerebral insulin signalling produces numerous neuroprotective effects in preclinical AD/PD brain models. Clinical trials have shown the promise of approved diabetic compounds in improving motor symptoms of PD and preventing neurodegenerative decline, with numerous further phase II trials and phase III trials underway in AD and PD populations. Alongside insulin signalling, targeting incretin receptors in the brain represents one of the most promising strategies for repurposing currently available agents for the treatment of AD/PD. Most notably, glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists have displayed impressive clinical potential in preclinical and early clinical studies. In AD the GLP-1 receptor agonist, liraglutide, has been demonstrated to improve cerebral glucose metabolism and functional connectivity in small-scale pilot trials. Whilst in PD, the GLP-1 receptor agonist exenatide is effective in restoring motor function and cognition. Targeting brain incretin receptors reduces inflammation, inhibits apoptosis, prevents toxic protein aggregation, enhances long-term potentiation and autophagy as well as restores dysfunctional insulin signalling. Support is also increasing for the use of additional approved diabetic treatments, including intranasal insulin, metformin hydrochloride, peroxisome proliferator-activated nuclear receptor γ agonists, amylin analogs, and protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B inhibitors which are in the investigation for deployment in PD and AD treatment. As such, we provide a comprehensive review of several promising anti-diabetic agents for the treatment of AD and PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Nowell
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Eleanor Blunt
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Dhruv Gupta
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Paul Edison
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK; School of Medicine, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.
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