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Inci OK, Basırlı H, Can M, Yanbul S, Seyrantepe V. Gangliosides as Therapeutic Targets for Neurodegenerative Diseases. J Lipids 2024; 2024:4530255. [PMID: 38623278 PMCID: PMC11018381 DOI: 10.1155/2024/4530255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Gangliosides, sialic acid-containing glycosphingolipids, are abundant in cell membranes and primarily involved in controlling cell signaling and cell communication. The altered ganglioside pattern has been demonstrated in several neurodegenerative diseases, characterized during early-onset or infancy, emphasizing the significance of gangliosides in the brain. Enzymes required for the biosynthesis of gangliosides are linked to several devastating neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP). In this review, we summarized not only the critical roles of biosynthetic enzymes and their inhibitors in ganglioside metabolism but also the efficacy of treatment strategies of ganglioside to address their significance in those diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orhan Kerim Inci
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Gulbahce Campus, Urla, 35430 Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Hande Basırlı
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Gulbahce Campus, Urla, 35430 Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Melike Can
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Gulbahce Campus, Urla, 35430 Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Selman Yanbul
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Gulbahce Campus, Urla, 35430 Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Volkan Seyrantepe
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Gulbahce Campus, Urla, 35430 Izmir, Türkiye
- Izmir Institute of Technology, IYTEDEHAM, Gulbahce Campus, Urla, 35430 Izmir, Türkiye
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Sunildutt N, Ahmed F, Chethikkattuveli Salih AR, Lim JH, Choi KH. Integrating Transcriptomic and Structural Insights: Revealing Drug Repurposing Opportunities for Sporadic ALS. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:3793-3806. [PMID: 38284068 PMCID: PMC10809234 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c07296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and devastating neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of upper and lower motor neurons, resulting in debilitating muscle weakness and atrophy. Currently, there are no effective treatments available for ALS, posing significant challenges in managing the disease that affects approximately two individuals per 100,000 people annually. To address the urgent need for effective ALS treatments, we conducted a drug repurposing study using a combination of bioinformatics tools and molecular docking techniques. We analyzed sporadic ALS-related genes from the GEO database and identified key signaling pathways involved in sporadic ALS pathogenesis through pathway analysis using DAVID. Subsequently, we utilized the Clue Connectivity Map to identify potential drug candidates and performed molecular docking using AutoDock Vina to evaluate the binding affinity of short-listed drugs to key sporadic ALS-related genes. Our study identified Cefaclor, Diphenidol, Flubendazole, Fluticasone, Lestaurtinib, Nadolol, Phenamil, Temozolomide, and Tolterodine as potential drug candidates for repurposing in sporadic ALS treatment. Notably, Lestaurtinib demonstrated high binding affinity toward multiple proteins, suggesting its potential as a broad-spectrum therapeutic agent for sporadic ALS. Additionally, docking analysis revealed NOS3 as the gene that interacts with all the short-listed drugs, suggesting its possible involvement in the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic potential of these drugs in sporadic ALS. Overall, our study provides a systematic framework for identifying potential drug candidates for sporadic ALS therapy and highlights the potential of drug repurposing as a promising strategy for discovering new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naina Sunildutt
- Department
of Mechatronics Engineering, Jeju National
University, Jeju63243, Republic
of Korea
| | - Faheem Ahmed
- Department
of Mechatronics Engineering, Jeju National
University, Jeju63243, Republic
of Korea
| | - Abdul Rahim Chethikkattuveli Salih
- Department
of Mechatronics Engineering, Jeju National
University, Jeju63243, Republic
of Korea
- Terasaki
Institute for Biomedical InnovationLos Angeles21100, United States
| | - Jong Hwan Lim
- Department
of Mechatronics Engineering, Jeju National
University, Jeju63243, Republic
of Korea
| | - Kyung Hyun Choi
- Department
of Mechatronics Engineering, Jeju National
University, Jeju63243, Republic
of Korea
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Lunghi G, Di Biase E, Carsana EV, Henriques A, Callizot N, Mauri L, Ciampa MG, Mari L, Loberto N, Aureli M, Sonnino S, Spedding M, Chiricozzi E, Fazzari M. GM1 ganglioside exerts protective effects against glutamate-excitotoxicity via its oligosaccharide in wild-type and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis motor neurons. FEBS Open Bio 2023; 13:2324-2341. [PMID: 37885330 PMCID: PMC10699117 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13727] [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: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Alterations in glycosphingolipid metabolism have been linked to the pathophysiological mechanisms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons. Accordingly, administration of GM1, a sialic acid-containing glycosphingolipid, is protective against neuronal damage and supports neuronal homeostasis, with these effects mediated by its bioactive component, the oligosaccharide head (GM1-OS). Here, we add new evidence to the therapeutic efficacy of GM1 in ALS: Its administration to WT and SOD1G93A motor neurons affected by glutamate-induced excitotoxicity significantly increased neuronal survival and preserved neurite networks, counteracting intracellular protein accumulation and mitochondria impairment. Importantly, the GM1-OS faithfully replicates GM1 activity, emphasizing that even in ALS the protective function of GM1 strictly depends on its pentasaccharide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Lunghi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | - Erika Di Biase
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | - Emma Veronica Carsana
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | | | | | - Laura Mauri
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | - Maria Grazia Ciampa
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | - Luigi Mari
- Department of ImmunologySt. Jude Children's Research HospitalMemphisTNUSA
| | - Nicoletta Loberto
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | - Massimo Aureli
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | - Sandro Sonnino
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | | | - Elena Chiricozzi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
| | - Maria Fazzari
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanoSegrateItaly
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Tolea MI, Ezzeddine R, Camacho S, Galvin JE. Emerging drugs for dementia with Lewy Bodies: a review of Phase II & III trials. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2023; 28:167-180. [PMID: 37531299 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2023.2244425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite faster cognitive decline and greater negative impact on patients and family caregivers, drug development efforts in Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB) fall behind those for Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Current off-label drug DLB treatment options are limited to symptomatic agents developed to address cognitive deficits in AD, motor deficits in Parkinson's Disease, or behavioral symptoms in psychiatric disease. Aided by recent improvements in DLB diagnosis, a new focus on the development of disease-modifying agents (DMA) is emerging. AREAS COVERED Driven by evidence supporting different pathological mechanisms in DLB and PDD, this review assesses the evidence on symptomatic drug treatments and describes current efforts in DMA development in DLB. Specifically, our goals were to: (1) review evidence supporting the use of symptomatic drug treatments in DLB; (2) review the current DMA pipeline in DLB with a focus on Phase II and III clinical trials; and (3) identify potential issues with the development of DMA in DLB. Included in this review were completed and ongoing drug clinical trials in DLB registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (no time limits set for the search) or disseminated at the 2023 international conference on Clinical Trials in AD. Drug clinical trials registered in non-US clinical trial registries were not included. EXPERT OPINION Adoption of current symptomatic drug treatments used off-label in DLB relied on efficacy of benefits in other disorders rather than evidence from randomized controlled clinical trials. Symptoms remain difficult to manage. Several DMA drugs are currently being evaluated as either repurposing candidates or novel small molecules. Continued improvement in methodological aspects including development of DLB-specific outcome measures and biomarkers is needed to move the field of DMA drug development forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena I Tolea
- Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, Lewy Body Dementia Research Center of Excellence, Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Reem Ezzeddine
- Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, Lewy Body Dementia Research Center of Excellence, Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Simone Camacho
- Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, Lewy Body Dementia Research Center of Excellence, Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - James E Galvin
- Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, Lewy Body Dementia Research Center of Excellence, Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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van der Pol KH, Aljofan M, Blin O, Cornel JH, Rongen GA, Woestelandt AG, Spedding M. Drug Repurposing of Generic Drugs: Challenges and the Potential Role for Government. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2023; 21:831-840. [PMID: 37398987 PMCID: PMC10627937 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-023-00816-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Drug repurposing is the process of identifying a new use for an existing drug or active substance in an indication outside the scope of the original indication. Drug repurposing has important advantages including reduced development time and costs, and potentially large societal healthcare cost savings. However, current generic drug repurposing research faces a number of challenges in obtaining research funds. Furthermore, regardless of the success of a repurposing trial, commercial parties often lack interest in pursuing marketing authorisation for financial reasons, and academic researchers lack the knowledge, time and funding. Therefore, the new indication of a repurposed drug often does not make it 'on label'. We propose a large increase in public funding for generic drug repurposing research, including funds for the marketing authorisation process when a trial is successful, and a reduction in the regulatory burden of the marketing authorisation process for repurposed generic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karel H van der Pol
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Mohamad Aljofan
- Department of Biomedical Science, Nazarbayev University School of Medicine, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
- National Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, Astana, 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Olivier Blin
- Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Aix Marseille Université, Inserm UMR 1106, Marseille, France
| | - Jan H Cornel
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Northwest Clinics, Alkmaar, The Netherlands
| | - Gerard A Rongen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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Mukhamedyarov MA, Khabibrakhmanov AN, Khuzakhmetova VF, Giniatullin AR, Zakirjanova GF, Zhilyakov NV, Mukhutdinova KA, Samigullin DV, Grigoryev PN, Zakharov AV, Zefirov AL, Petrov AM. Early Alterations in Structural and Functional Properties in the Neuromuscular Junctions of Mutant FUS Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9022. [PMID: 37240370 PMCID: PMC10218837 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24109022] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is manifested as skeletal muscle denervation, loss of motor neurons and finally severe respiratory failure. Mutations of RNA-binding protein FUS are one of the common genetic reasons of ALS accompanied by a 'dying back' type of degeneration. Using fluorescent approaches and microelectrode recordings, the early structural and functional alterations in diaphragm neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) were studied in mutant FUS mice at the pre-onset stage. Lipid peroxidation and decreased staining with a lipid raft marker were found in the mutant mice. Despite the preservation of the end-plate structure, immunolabeling revealed an increase in levels of presynaptic proteins, SNAP-25 and synapsin 1. The latter can restrain Ca2+-dependent synaptic vesicle mobilization. Indeed, neurotransmitter release upon intense nerve stimulation and its recovery after tetanus and compensatory synaptic vesicle endocytosis were markedly depressed in FUS mice. There was a trend to attenuation of axonal [Ca2+]in increase upon nerve stimulation at 20 Hz. However, no changes in neurotransmitter release and the intraterminal Ca2+ transient in response to low frequency stimulation or in quantal content and the synchrony of neurotransmitter release at low levels of external Ca2+ were detected. At a later stage, shrinking and fragmentation of end plates together with a decrease in presynaptic protein expression and disturbance of the neurotransmitter release timing occurred. Overall, suppression of synaptic vesicle exo-endocytosis upon intense activity probably due to alterations in membrane properties, synapsin 1 levels and Ca2+ kinetics could be an early sign of nascent NMJ pathology, which leads to neuromuscular contact disorganization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marat A. Mukhamedyarov
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
| | - Aydar N. Khabibrakhmanov
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
| | - Venera F. Khuzakhmetova
- Kazan Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal Research Center ‘‘Kazan Scientific Center of RAS”, 2/31 Lobachevsky St., P.O. Box 30, Kazan 420111, Russia (N.V.Z.)
| | - Arthur R. Giniatullin
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
- Kazan Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal Research Center ‘‘Kazan Scientific Center of RAS”, 2/31 Lobachevsky St., P.O. Box 30, Kazan 420111, Russia (N.V.Z.)
| | - Guzalia F. Zakirjanova
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
- Kazan Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal Research Center ‘‘Kazan Scientific Center of RAS”, 2/31 Lobachevsky St., P.O. Box 30, Kazan 420111, Russia (N.V.Z.)
| | - Nikita V. Zhilyakov
- Kazan Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal Research Center ‘‘Kazan Scientific Center of RAS”, 2/31 Lobachevsky St., P.O. Box 30, Kazan 420111, Russia (N.V.Z.)
| | - Kamilla A. Mukhutdinova
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
| | - Dmitry V. Samigullin
- Kazan Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal Research Center ‘‘Kazan Scientific Center of RAS”, 2/31 Lobachevsky St., P.O. Box 30, Kazan 420111, Russia (N.V.Z.)
- Department of Radiophotonics and Microwave Technologies, Kazan National Research Technical University, 10 K. Marx St., Kazan 420111, Russia
| | - Pavel N. Grigoryev
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
| | - Andrey V. Zakharov
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan 420008, Russia
| | - Andrey L. Zefirov
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
| | - Alexey M. Petrov
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
- Kazan Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal Research Center ‘‘Kazan Scientific Center of RAS”, 2/31 Lobachevsky St., P.O. Box 30, Kazan 420111, Russia (N.V.Z.)
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Menozzi E, Toffoli M, Schapira AHV. Targeting the GBA1 pathway to slow Parkinson disease: Insights into clinical aspects, pathogenic mechanisms and new therapeutic avenues. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 246:108419. [PMID: 37080432 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
The GBA1 gene encodes the lysosomal enzyme glucocerebrosidase (GCase), which is involved in sphingolipid metabolism. Biallelic variants in GBA1 cause Gaucher disease (GD), a lysosomal storage disorder characterised by loss of GCase activity and aberrant intracellular accumulation of GCase substrates. Carriers of GBA1 variants have an increased risk of developing Parkinson disease (PD), with odds ratio ranging from 2.2 to 30 according to variant severity. GBA1 variants which do not cause GD in homozygosis can also increase PD risk. Patients with PD carrying GBA1 variants show a more rapidly progressive phenotype compared to non-carriers, emphasising the need for disease modifying treatments targeting the GBA1 pathway. Several mechanisms secondary to GCase dysfunction are potentially responsible for the pathological changes leading to PD. Misfolded GCase proteins induce endoplasmic reticulum stress and subsequent unfolded protein response and impair the autophagy-lysosomal pathway. This results in α-synuclein accumulation and spread, and promotes neurodegenerative changes. Preclinical evidence also shows that products of GCase activity can promote accumulation of α-synuclein, however there is no convincing evidence of substrate accumulation in GBA1-PD brains. Altered lipid homeostasis secondary to loss of GCase activity could also contribute to PD pathology. Treatments that target the GBA1 pathway could reverse these pathological processes and halt/slow the progression of PD. These range from augmentation of GCase activity via GBA1 gene therapy, restoration of normal intracellular GCase trafficking via molecular chaperones, and substrate reduction therapy. This review discusses the pathways associated with GBA1-PD and related novel GBA1-targeted interventions for PD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Menozzi
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, United States of America
| | - Marco Toffoli
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, United States of America
| | - Anthony H V Schapira
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, United States of America.
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Dupuis L, Chio A. The "metabolic axis" of ALS: The role of body weight in disease pathogenesis. Muscle Nerve 2023; 67:191-192. [PMID: 36602891 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Luc Dupuis
- Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, Mécanismes centraux et périphériques de la neurodégénérescence, Strasbourg, France
| | - Adriano Chio
- Neurology 1, ALS Centre, 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Ambroxol for neuropathic pain: hiding in plain sight? Pain 2023; 164:3-13. [PMID: 35580314 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Ambroxol is a multifaceted drug with primarily mucoactive and secretolytic actions, along with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and local anaesthetic properties. It has a long history of use in the treatment of respiratory tract diseases and has shown to be efficacious in relieving sore throat. In more recent years, ambroxol has gained interest for its potential usefulness in treating neuropathic pain. Research into this area has been slow, despite clear preclinical evidence to support its primary analgesic mechanism of action-blockade of voltage-gated sodium (Na v ) channels in sensory neurons. Ambroxol is a commercially available inhibitor of Na v 1.8, a crucial player in the pathophysiology of neuropathic pain, and Na v 1.7, a particularly exciting target for the treatment of chronic pain. In this review, we discuss the analgesic mechanisms of action of ambroxol, as well as proposed synergistic properties, followed by the preclinical and clinical results of its use in the treatment of persistent pain and neuropathic pain symptoms, including trigeminal neuralgia, fibromyalgia, and complex regional pain syndrome. With its well-established safety profile, extensive preclinical and clinical drug data, and early evidence of clinical effectiveness, ambroxol is an old drug worthy of further investigation for repurposing. As a patent-expired drug, a push is needed to progress the drug to clinical trials for neuropathic pain. We encourage the pharmaceutical industry to look at patented drug formulations and take an active role in bringing an optimized version for neuropathic pain to market.
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O'Brien JT, Chouliaras L, Sultana J, Taylor JP, Ballard C. RENEWAL: REpurposing study to find NEW compounds with Activity for Lewy body dementia-an international Delphi consensus. Alzheimers Res Ther 2022; 14:169. [PMID: 36369100 PMCID: PMC9650797 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-022-01103-7] [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: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Drug repositioning and repurposing has proved useful in identifying new treatments for many diseases, which can then rapidly be brought into clinical practice. Currently, there are few effective pharmacological treatments for Lewy body dementia (which includes both dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson's disease dementia) apart from cholinesterase inhibitors. We reviewed several promising compounds that might potentially be disease-modifying agents for Lewy body dementia and then undertook an International Delphi consensus study to prioritise compounds. We identified ambroxol as the top ranked agent for repurposing and identified a further six agents from the classes of tyrosine kinase inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and angiotensin receptor blockers that were rated by the majority of our expert panel as justifying a clinical trial. It would now be timely to take forward all these compounds to Phase II or III clinical trials in Lewy body dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- John T O'Brien
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, UK.
- Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Leonidas Chouliaras
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, UK
| | - Janet Sultana
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - John-Paul Taylor
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Campus for Ageing and Vitality, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
| | - Clive Ballard
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
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11
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Agrawal I, Lim YS, Ng SY, Ling SC. Deciphering lipid dysregulation in ALS: from mechanisms to translational medicine. Transl Neurodegener 2022; 11:48. [DOI: 10.1186/s40035-022-00322-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractLipids, defined by low solubility in water and high solubility in nonpolar solvents, can be classified into fatty acids, glycerolipids, glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, and sterols. Lipids not only regulate integrity and fluidity of biological membranes, but also serve as energy storage and bioactive molecules for signaling. Causal mutations in SPTLC1 (serine palmitoyltransferase long chain subunit 1) gene within the lipogenic pathway have been identified in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a paralytic and fatal motor neuron disease. Furthermore, lipid dysmetabolism within the central nervous system and circulation is associated with ALS. Here, we aim to delineate the diverse roles of different lipid classes and understand how lipid dysmetabolism may contribute to ALS pathogenesis. Among the different lipids, accumulation of ceramides, arachidonic acid, and lysophosphatidylcholine is commonly emerging as detrimental to motor neurons. We end with exploring the potential ALS therapeutics by reducing these toxic lipids.
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12
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Alpha-Synuclein: The Spark That Flames Dopaminergic Neurons, In Vitro and In Vivo Evidence. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179864. [PMID: 36077253 PMCID: PMC9456396 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria, α-syn fibrils and the endo-lysosomal system are key players in the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease. The toxicity of α-syn is amplified by cell-to-cell transmission and aggregation of endogenous species in newly invaded neurons. Toxicity of α-syn PFF was investigated using primary cultures of dopaminergic neurons or on aged mice after infusion in the SNpc and combined with mild inhibition of GBA. In primary dopaminergic neurons, application of α-syn PFF induced a progressive cytotoxicity associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and accumulation of lysosomes suggesting that exogenous α-syn reached the lysosome (from the endosome). Counteracting the α-syn endocytosis with a clathrin inhibitor, dopaminergic neuron degeneration was prevented. In vivo, α-syn PFF induced progressive neurodegeneration of dopaminergic neurons associated with motor deficits. Histology revealed progressive aggregation of α-syn and microglial activation and accounted for the seeding role of α-syn, injection of which acted as a spark suggesting a triggering of cell-to-cell toxicity. We showed for the first time that a localized SNpc α-syn administration combined with a slight lysosomal deficiency and aging triggered a progressive lesion. The cellular and animal models described could help in the understanding of the human disease and might contribute to the development of new therapies.
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McCluskey G, Donaghy C, Morrison KE, McConville J, Duddy W, Duguez S. The Role of Sphingomyelin and Ceramide in Motor Neuron Diseases. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12091418. [PMID: 36143200 PMCID: PMC9501626 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12091418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Spinal Bulbar Muscular Atrophy (SBMA), and Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) are motor neuron diseases (MNDs) characterised by progressive motor neuron degeneration, weakness and muscular atrophy. Lipid dysregulation is well recognised in each of these conditions and occurs prior to neurodegeneration. Several lipid markers have been shown to predict prognosis in ALS. Sphingolipids are complex lipids enriched in the central nervous system and are integral to key cellular functions including membrane stability and signalling pathways, as well as being mediators of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. This review highlights the metabolism of sphingomyelin (SM), the most abundant sphingolipid, and of its metabolite ceramide, and its role in the pathophysiology of neurodegeneration, focusing on MNDs. We also review published lipidomic studies in MNDs. In the 13 studies of patients with ALS, 12 demonstrated upregulation of multiple SM species and 6 demonstrated upregulation of ceramides. SM species also correlated with markers of clinical progression in five of six studies. These data highlight the potential use of SM and ceramide as biomarkers in ALS. Finally, we review potential therapeutic strategies for targeting sphingolipid metabolism in neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin McCluskey
- Personalised Medicine Center, School of Medicine, Ulster University, Derry BT47 6SB, UK
- Department of Neurology, Altnagelvin Hospital, Derry, BT47 6SB, UK
- Department of Neurology, Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast BT12 6BA, UK
| | - Colette Donaghy
- Department of Neurology, Altnagelvin Hospital, Derry, BT47 6SB, UK
| | - Karen E. Morrison
- Department of Neurology, Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast BT12 6BA, UK
- Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Sciences, Queen’s University, Belfast BT9 6AG, UK
| | - John McConville
- Department of Neurology, Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast BT12 6BA, UK
- Department of Neurology, Ulster Hospital, Dundonald, Belfast BT16 1RH, UK
| | - William Duddy
- Personalised Medicine Center, School of Medicine, Ulster University, Derry BT47 6SB, UK
| | - Stephanie Duguez
- Personalised Medicine Center, School of Medicine, Ulster University, Derry BT47 6SB, UK
- Correspondence:
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Shah S, Dooms MM, Amaral-Garcia S, Igoillo-Esteve M. Current Drug Repurposing Strategies for Rare Neurodegenerative Disorders. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:768023. [PMID: 34992533 PMCID: PMC8724568 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.768023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Rare diseases are life-threatening or chronically debilitating low-prevalent disorders caused by pathogenic mutations or particular environmental insults. Due to their high complexity and low frequency, important gaps still exist in their prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Since new drug discovery is a very costly and time-consuming process, leading pharmaceutical companies show relatively low interest in orphan drug research and development due to the high cost of investments compared to the low market return of the product. Drug repurposing–based approaches appear then as cost- and time-saving strategies for the development of therapeutic opportunities for rare diseases. In this article, we discuss the scientific, regulatory, and economic aspects of the development of repurposed drugs for the treatment of rare neurodegenerative disorders with a particular focus on Huntington’s disease, Friedreich’s ataxia, Wolfram syndrome, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The role of academia, pharmaceutical companies, patient associations, and foundations in the identification of candidate compounds and their preclinical and clinical evaluation will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sweta Shah
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
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15
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Whole and fractionated human platelet lysate biomaterials-based biotherapy induces strong neuroprotection in experimental models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Biomaterials 2021; 280:121311. [PMID: 34952382 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.121311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease of motor neurons leading to death within 3 years and without a curative treatment. Neurotrophic growth factors (NTFs) are pivotal for cell survival. A reason for the lack of patient efficacy with single recombinant NTF brain infusion is likely to be due to the synergistic neuroprotective action of multiple NTFs on a diverse set of signaling pathways. Fractionated (protein size <50, <30, <10, <3 kDa) heat-treated human platelet lysate (HHPL) preparations were adapted for use in brain tissue with the aim of demonstrating therapeutic value in ALS models and further elucidation of the mechanisms of action. In neuronal culture all fractions induced Akt-dependent neuroprotection as well as a strong anti-apoptotic and anti-ferroptotic action. In the <3 kDa fraction anti-ferroptotic properties were shown to be GPX4 dependent highlighting a role for other platelet elements associated with NTFs. In the SOD1G86R mouse model, lifespan was strongly increased by intracerebroventricular delivery of HHPL or by intranasal administration of <3 kDa fraction. Our results suggest that the platelet lysate biomaterials are neuroprotective in ALS. Further studies would now validate theragnostic biomarker on its antiferroptotic action, for further clinical development.
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Histone Deacetylase Inhibition Regulates Lipid Homeostasis in a Mouse Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011224. [PMID: 34681883 PMCID: PMC8541517 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable and fatal neurodegenerative disorder of the motor system. While the etiology is still incompletely understood, defects in metabolism act as a major contributor to the disease progression. Recently, histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition using ACY-738 has been shown to restore metabolic alterations in the spinal cord of a FUS mouse model of ALS, which was accompanied by a beneficial effect on the motor phenotype and survival. In this study, we investigated the specific effects of HDAC inhibition on lipid metabolism using untargeted lipidomic analysis combined with transcriptomic analysis in the spinal cord of FUS mice. We discovered that symptomatic FUS mice recapitulate lipid alterations found in ALS patients and in the SOD1 mouse model. Glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, and cholesterol esters were most affected. Strikingly, HDAC inhibition mitigated lipid homeostasis defects by selectively targeting glycerophospholipid metabolism and reducing cholesteryl esters accumulation. Therefore, our data suggest that HDAC inhibition is a potential new therapeutic strategy to modulate lipid metabolism defects in ALS and potentially other neurodegenerative diseases.
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17
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Effect of Expression of Human Glucosylceramidase 2 Isoforms on Lipid Profiles in COS-7 Cells. Metabolites 2020; 10:metabo10120488. [PMID: 33261081 PMCID: PMC7761373 DOI: 10.3390/metabo10120488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucosylceramide (GlcCer) is a major membrane lipid and the precursor of gangliosides. GlcCer is mainly degraded by two enzymes, lysosomal acid β-glucosidase (GBA) and nonlysosomal β-glucosidase (GBA2), which may have different isoforms because of alternative splicing. To understand which GBA2 isoforms are active and how they affect glycosphingolipid levels in cells, we expressed nine human GBA2 isoforms in COS-7 cells, confirmed their expression by qRT-PCR and Western blotting, and assayed their activity to hydrolyze 4-methylumbelliferyl-β-D-glucopyranoside (4MUG) in cell extracts. Human GBA2 isoform 1 showed high activity, while the other isoforms had activity similar to the background. Comparison of sphingolipid levels by ultra-high resolution/accurate mass spectrometry (UHRAMS) analysis showed that isoform 1 overexpression increased ceramide and decreased hexosylceramide levels. Comparison of ratios of glucosylceramides to the corresponding ceramides in the extracts indicated that GBA2 isoform 1 has broad specificity for the lipid component of glucosylceramide, suggesting that only one GBA2 isoform 1 is active and affects sphingolipid levels in the cell. Our study provides new insights into how increased breakdown of GlcCer affects cellular lipid metabolic networks.
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Bouscary A, Quessada C, René F, Spedding M, Turner BJ, Henriques A, Ngo ST, Loeffler JP. Sphingolipids metabolism alteration in the central nervous system: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurodegenerative diseases. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2020; 112:82-91. [PMID: 33160824 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Sphingolipids are complex lipids. They play a structural role in neurons, but are also involved in regulating cellular communication, and neuronal differentiation and maturation. There is increasing evidence to suggest that dysregulated metabolism of sphingolipids is linked to neurodegenerative processes in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson's disease and Gaucher's disease. In this review, we provide an overview of the role of sphingolipids in the development and maintenance of the nervous system. We describe the implications of altered metabolism of sphingolipids in the pathophysiology of certain neurodegenerative diseases, with a primary focus on ALS. Finally, we provide an update of potential treatments that could be used to target the metabolism of sphingolipids in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Bouscary
- Université de Strasbourg, UMR_S 1118, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle, CRBS, 1 rue Eugène Boeckel, 67000 Strasbourg, France; INSERM, U1118, Mécanismes Centraux et Périphériques de la Neurodégénérescence, CRBS, 1 rue Eugène Boeckel, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Cyril Quessada
- Université de Strasbourg, UMR_S 1118, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle, CRBS, 1 rue Eugène Boeckel, 67000 Strasbourg, France; INSERM, U1118, Mécanismes Centraux et Périphériques de la Neurodégénérescence, CRBS, 1 rue Eugène Boeckel, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Frédérique René
- Université de Strasbourg, UMR_S 1118, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle, CRBS, 1 rue Eugène Boeckel, 67000 Strasbourg, France; INSERM, U1118, Mécanismes Centraux et Périphériques de la Neurodégénérescence, CRBS, 1 rue Eugène Boeckel, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Michael Spedding
- Spedding Research Solutions SAS, 6 rue Ampere, 78650 Le Vesinet, France
| | - Bradley J Turner
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | | | - Shyuan T Ngo
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Building 75, Cnr College Rd & Cooper Rd, Brisbane city, QLD 4072, Australia; Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital Campus, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia; Queensland Brain Institute Building 79, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Jean-Philippe Loeffler
- Université de Strasbourg, UMR_S 1118, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle, CRBS, 1 rue Eugène Boeckel, 67000 Strasbourg, France; INSERM, U1118, Mécanismes Centraux et Périphériques de la Neurodégénérescence, CRBS, 1 rue Eugène Boeckel, 67000 Strasbourg, France.
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Sipione S, Monyror J, Galleguillos D, Steinberg N, Kadam V. Gangliosides in the Brain: Physiology, Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Applications. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:572965. [PMID: 33117120 PMCID: PMC7574889 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.572965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gangliosides are glycosphingolipids highly abundant in the nervous system, and carry most of the sialic acid residues in the brain. Gangliosides are enriched in cell membrane microdomains ("lipid rafts") and play important roles in the modulation of membrane proteins and ion channels, in cell signaling and in the communication among cells. The importance of gangliosides in the brain is highlighted by the fact that loss of function mutations in ganglioside biosynthetic enzymes result in severe neurodegenerative disorders, often characterized by very early or childhood onset. In addition, changes in the ganglioside profile (i.e., in the relative abundance of specific gangliosides) were reported in healthy aging and in common neurological conditions, including Huntington's disease (HD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), stroke, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy. At least in HD, PD and in some forms of epilepsy, experimental evidence strongly suggests a potential role of gangliosides in disease pathogenesis and potential treatment. In this review, we will summarize ganglioside functions that are crucial to maintain brain health, we will review changes in ganglioside levels that occur in major neurological conditions and we will discuss their contribution to cellular dysfunctions and disease pathogenesis. Finally, we will review evidence of the beneficial roles exerted by gangliosides, GM1 in particular, in disease models and in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simonetta Sipione
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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20
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Tracey TJ, Kirk SE, Steyn FJ, Ngo ST. The role of lipids in the central nervous system and their pathological implications in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2020; 112:69-81. [PMID: 32962914 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Lipids play an important role in the central nervous system (CNS). They contribute to the structural integrity and physical characteristics of cell and organelle membranes, act as bioactive signalling molecules, and are utilised as fuel sources for mitochondrial metabolism. The intricate homeostatic mechanisms underpinning lipid handling and metabolism across two major CNS cell types; neurons and astrocytes, are integral for cellular health and maintenance. Here, we explore the various roles of lipids in these two cell types. Given that changes in lipid metabolism have been identified in a number of neurodegenerative diseases, we also discuss changes in lipid handling and utilisation in the context of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), in order to identify key cellular processes affected by the disease, and inform future areas of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J Tracey
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - S E Kirk
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - F J Steyn
- Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - S T Ngo
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
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21
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Bouscary A, Quessada C, René F, Spedding M, Henriques A, Ngo S, Loeffler JP. Drug repositioning in neurodegeneration: An overview of the use of ambroxol in neurodegenerative diseases. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 884:173446. [PMID: 32739173 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common motor neuron disease in adults. While it is primarily characterized by the death of upper and lower motor neurons, there is a significant metabolic component involved in the progression of the disease. Two-thirds of ALS patients have metabolic alterations that are associated with the severity of symptoms. In ALS, as in other neurodegenerative diseases, the metabolism of glycosphingolipids, a class of complex lipids, is strongly dysregulated. We therefore assume that this pathway constitutes an interesting avenue for therapeutic approaches. We have shown that the glucosylceramide degrading enzyme, glucocerebrosidase (GBA) 2 is abnormally increased in the spinal cord of the SOD1G86R mouse model of ALS. Ambroxol, a chaperone molecule that inhibits GBA2, has been shown to have beneficial effects by slowing the development of the disease in SOD1G86R mice. Currently used in clinical trials for Parkinson's and Gaucher disease, ambroxol could be considered as a promising therapeutic treatment for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Bouscary
- INSERM U1118, Mécanismes Centraux et Périphériques de la Neurodégénérescence, Université de Strasbourg, France; Université de Strasbourg, UMR-S 1118, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle, Strasbourg, France
| | - Cyril Quessada
- INSERM U1118, Mécanismes Centraux et Périphériques de la Neurodégénérescence, Université de Strasbourg, France; Université de Strasbourg, UMR-S 1118, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle, Strasbourg, France
| | - Frédérique René
- INSERM U1118, Mécanismes Centraux et Périphériques de la Neurodégénérescence, Université de Strasbourg, France; Université de Strasbourg, UMR-S 1118, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle, Strasbourg, France
| | | | | | - Shyuan Ngo
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jean-Philippe Loeffler
- INSERM U1118, Mécanismes Centraux et Périphériques de la Neurodégénérescence, Université de Strasbourg, France; Université de Strasbourg, UMR-S 1118, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle, Strasbourg, France.
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22
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Blasco H, Lanznaster D, Veyrat-Durebex C, Hergesheimer R, Vourch P, Maillot F, Andres CR, Pradat PF, Corcia P. Understanding and managing metabolic dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Expert Rev Neurother 2020; 20:907-919. [PMID: 32583696 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2020.1788389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal motor neuron disease that leads to death after a median survival of 36 months. The development of an effective treatment has proven to be extremely difficult due to the inadequate understanding of the pathogenesis of ALS. Energy metabolism is thoroughly involved in the disease based on the discoveries of hypermetabolism, lipid/glucose metabolism, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and mitochondrial impairment. AREA COVERED Many perturbed metabolites within these processes have been identified as promising therapeutic targets. However, the therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways have failed to produce clinically significant results. The authors present in this review the metabolic disturbances observed in ALS and the derived-therapeutics. EXPERT OPINION The authors suggest that this is due to the insufficient knowledge of the relationship between the metabolic targets and the type of ALS of the patient, depending on genetic and environmental factors. We must improve our understanding of the pathological mechanisms and pay attention to the subtle hidden effects of changing diet, for example, and to use this strategy in addition to other drugs or to use metabolism status to determine subgroups of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene Blasco
- Unité INSERM U1253, équipe, neurogénomique et physiopathologie neuronale, Université de Tours , Tours, France.,Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHRU de Tours , Tours, France
| | - Debora Lanznaster
- Unité INSERM U1253, équipe, neurogénomique et physiopathologie neuronale, Université de Tours , Tours, France
| | - Charlotte Veyrat-Durebex
- Unité INSERM U1253, équipe, neurogénomique et physiopathologie neuronale, Université de Tours , Tours, France.,Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHRU de Tours , Tours, France
| | - Rudolf Hergesheimer
- Unité INSERM U1253, équipe, neurogénomique et physiopathologie neuronale, Université de Tours , Tours, France
| | - Patrick Vourch
- Unité INSERM U1253, équipe, neurogénomique et physiopathologie neuronale, Université de Tours , Tours, France.,Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHRU de Tours , Tours, France
| | - Francois Maillot
- Unité INSERM U1253, équipe, neurogénomique et physiopathologie neuronale, Université de Tours , Tours, France.,Service de Médecine Interne, CHRU de Tours , Tours, France
| | - Christian R Andres
- Unité INSERM U1253, équipe, neurogénomique et physiopathologie neuronale, Université de Tours , Tours, France.,Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHRU de Tours , Tours, France
| | - Pierre-François Pradat
- Unité INSERM U1253, équipe, neurogénomique et physiopathologie neuronale, Université de Tours , Tours, France.,Biomedical Imaging Laboratory, CNRS, INSERM, Sorbonne University , Paris, France.,APHP, Department of Neurology, Paris ALS Center, Pitié Salpêtrière Hospital , Paris, France
| | - Phillipe Corcia
- Unité INSERM U1253, équipe, neurogénomique et physiopathologie neuronale, Université de Tours , Tours, France.,Service de Neurologie, CHRU de Tours , Tours, France
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Bouscary A, Quessada C. Potentiel thérapeutique de l’ambroxol contre les maladies du motoneurone. Med Sci (Paris) 2020; 36:447-448. [DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2020071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Ambroxol Improves Neuronal Survival and Reduces White Matter Damage through Suppressing Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Microglia after Intracerebral Hemorrhage. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:8131286. [PMID: 32309438 PMCID: PMC7142346 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8131286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) has been becoming a serious public health problem. Pneumonia, occurring in 43% of all ICH patients, is a common complication heavily influencing outcome and accounting for more than 1/3 of the overall mortality in patients with ICH. Ambroxol may be an effective additional treatment for ICH patients with pneumonia. But its effect and potential mechanism on functional recovery post-ICH still remain elusive. In the present study, the results indicated that 35 mg/kg and 70 mg/kg ambroxol facilitated neuronal survival and reduced white matter fiber bundle damage due to mitigating microglial activation and reducing proinflammatory cytokine accumulation in mice with ICH. The possible mechanism might be due to suppressing endoplasmic reticulum stress involving the IRE1α/TRAF2 signaling pathway, which paves a new path for the treatment of ICH and opens a new window for the use of ambroxol in clinical practice.
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