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Li JM, Bai YZ, Zhang SQ. Advances and challenges in serine in the central nervous system: physicochemistry, physiology, and pharmacology. Metab Brain Dis 2024:10.1007/s11011-024-01418-4. [PMID: 39186223 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-024-01418-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Neurological disorders are the primary cause of human disability and mortality globally, however, current medications slightly alleviate some symptoms of degenerative diseases. Serine is an important amino acid for the brain function and involved in a variety of biosynthetic pathways and signal transduction processes. The imbalance of serine metabolism is associated with neurodegeneration, including neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis. Altered activities of serine metabolizing enzymes and accumulation of serine metabolites affect the survival and function of nerve cells. Abnormal serine levels are observed in animal models with neurological diseases, but not all human studies, therefore, the maintenance of serine homeostasis is a potentially therapeutic strategy for neurological disorders. To date, physiological and pharmacological roles of serine in neurological diseases have not been systemically recapitulated, and the association between serine and neurological diseases is controversial. In this review, we summarize physicochemical properties of serine, biological processes of serine in the brain (source, biotransformation, and transport), and the application of serine in neurological diseases including Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and depression. Here, we highlight physicochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, and therapeutic potentials of serine in the prevention and treatment of neurological dysfunction. Our work provides valuable hints for future investigation that will lead to a comprehensive understanding of serine and its metabolism in cellular physiology and pharmacology. Although broad by necessity, the review helps researchers to understand great potentials of serine in the prevention and treatment of neurological dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Meng Li
- National Institute for Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 27 Nanwei Road, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Ya-Zhi Bai
- National Institute for Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 27 Nanwei Road, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Shuang-Qing Zhang
- National Institute for Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 27 Nanwei Road, Beijing, 100050, China.
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2
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Garofalo M, De Simone G, Motta Z, Nuzzo T, De Grandis E, Bruno C, Boeri S, Riccio MP, Pastore L, Bravaccio C, Iasevoli F, Salvatore F, Pollegioni L, Errico F, de Bartolomeis A, Usiello A. Decreased free D-aspartate levels in the blood serum of patients with schizophrenia. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1408175. [PMID: 39050919 PMCID: PMC11266155 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1408175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Schizophrenia (SCZ) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are neurodevelopmental diseases characterized by different psychopathological manifestations and divergent clinical trajectories. Various alterations at glutamatergic synapses have been reported in both disorders, including abnormal NMDA and metabotropic receptor signaling. Methods We conducted a bicentric study to assess the blood serum levels of NMDA receptors-related glutamatergic amino acids and their precursors, including L-glutamate, L-glutamine, D-aspartate, L-aspartate, L-asparagine, D-serine, L-serine and glycine, in ASD, SCZ patients and their respective control subjects. Specifically, the SCZ patients were subdivided into treatment-resistant and non-treatment-resistant SCZ patients, based on their responsivity to conventional antipsychotics. Results D-serine and D-aspartate serum reductions were found in SCZ patients compared to controls. Conversely, no significant differences between cases and controls were found in amino acid concentrations in the two ASD cohorts analyzed. Discussion This result further encourages future research to evaluate the predictive role of selected D-amino acids as peripheral markers for SCZ pathophysiology and diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Garofalo
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, Naples, Italy
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Caserta, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Simone
- Section of Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University Medical School of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Zoraide Motta
- ”The Protein Factory 2.0”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Tommaso Nuzzo
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, Naples, Italy
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Caserta, Italy
| | - Elisa De Grandis
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal, and Child Health - DINOGMI, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Claudio Bruno
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal, and Child Health - DINOGMI, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- Center of Translational and Experimental Myology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Silvia Boeri
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal, and Child Health - DINOGMI, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Riccio
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Unità Operativa semplice di Dipartimento (UOSD) of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria (AOU) Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Lucio Pastore
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Carmela Bravaccio
- Department of Medical and Translational Sciences, Child Neuropsychiatry, Federico II University, Napoli, Italy
| | - Felice Iasevoli
- Section of Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University Medical School of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Salvatore
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, Naples, Italy
- Centro Interuniversitario per Malattie Multigeniche e Multifattoriali e loro Modelli Animali (Federico II, Naples; Tor Vergata, Rome and “G. D’Annunzio”, Chieti-Pescara), Naples, Italy
| | - Loredano Pollegioni
- ”The Protein Factory 2.0”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Francesco Errico
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Agraria, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, Portici, Italy
| | - Andrea de Bartolomeis
- Section of Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University Medical School of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Usiello
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate “Franco Salvatore”, Naples, Italy
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Caserta, Italy
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3
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Barzegar Behrooz A, Latifi‐Navid H, Lotfi J, Khodagholi F, Shojaei S, Ghavami S, Fahanik Babaei J. CSF amino acid profiles in ICV-streptozotocin-induced sporadic Alzheimer's disease in male Wistar rat: a metabolomics and systems biology perspective. FEBS Open Bio 2024; 14:1116-1132. [PMID: 38769074 PMCID: PMC11216934 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an increasingly important public health concern due to the increasing proportion of older individuals within the general population. The impairment of processes responsible for adequate brain energy supply primarily determines the early features of the aging process. Restricting brain energy supply results in brain hypometabolism prior to clinical symptoms and is anatomically and functionally associated with cognitive impairment. The present study investigated changes in metabolic profiles induced by intracerebroventricular-streptozotocin (ICV-STZ) in an AD-like animal model. To this end, male Wistar rats received a single injection of STZ (3 mg·kg-1) by ICV (2.5 μL into each ventricle for 5 min on each side). In the second week after receiving ICV-STZ, rats were tested for cognitive performance using the Morris Water Maze test and subsequently prepared for positron emission tomography (PET) to confirm AD-like symptoms. Tandem Mass Spectrometry (MS/MS) analysis was used to detect amino acid changes in cerebrospinal fluid (CFS) samples. Our metabolomics study revealed a reduction in the concentrations of various amino acids (alanine, arginine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, glycine, isoleucine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophane, tyrosine, and valine) in CSF of ICV-STZ-treated animals as compared to controls rats. The results of the current study indicate amino acid levels could potentially be considered targets of nutritional and/or pharmacological interventions to interfere with AD progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Barzegar Behrooz
- Electrophysiology Research Center, Neuroscience InstituteTehran University of Medical SciencesIran
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, College of MedicineUniversity of ManitobaWinnipegCanada
| | - Hamid Latifi‐Navid
- Electrophysiology Research Center, Neuroscience InstituteTehran University of Medical SciencesIran
- Department of Molecular MedicineNational Institute of Genetic Engineering and BiotechnologyTehranIran
- School of Biological SciencesInstitute for Research in Fundamental Sciences (IPM)TehranIran
| | - Jabar Lotfi
- Growth and Development Research CenterTehran University of Medical SciencesIran
| | - Fariba Khodagholi
- Neuroscience Research CenterShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Shahla Shojaei
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, College of MedicineUniversity of ManitobaWinnipegCanada
| | - Saeid Ghavami
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, College of MedicineUniversity of ManitobaWinnipegCanada
- Faculty of Medicine in ZabrzeUniversity of Technology in KatowiceZabrzePoland
- Research Institute of Oncology and HematologyCancer Care Manitoba‐University of ManitobaWinnipegCanada
- Children Hospital Research Institute of ManitobaUniversity of ManitobaWinnipegCanada
| | - Javad Fahanik Babaei
- Electrophysiology Research Center, Neuroscience InstituteTehran University of Medical SciencesIran
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4
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Ratinho L, Bacri L, Thiebot B, Cressiot B, Pelta J. Identification and Detection of a Peptide Biomarker and Its Enantiomer by Nanopore. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2024; 10:1167-1178. [PMID: 38947203 PMCID: PMC11212137 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.4c00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Until now, no fast, low-cost, and direct technique exists to identify and detect protein/peptide enantiomers, because their mass and charge are identical. They are essential since l- and d-protein enantiomers have different biological activities due to their unique conformations. Enantiomers have potential for diagnostic purposes for several diseases or normal bodily functions but have yet to be utilized. This work uses an aerolysin nanopore and electrical detection to identify vasopressin enantiomers, l-AVP and d-AVP, associated with different biological processes and pathologies. We show their identification according to their conformations, in either native or reducing conditions, using their specific electrical signature. To improve their identification, we used a principal component analysis approach to define the most relevant electrical parameters for their identification. Finally, we used the Monte Carlo prediction to assign each event type to a specific l- or d-AVP enantiomer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Ratinho
- Université
Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, CY Cergy Paris Université, CNRS, LAMBE, 95000, Cergy, France
| | - Laurent Bacri
- Université
Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, CY Cergy Paris Université, CNRS, LAMBE, 91025, Evry-Courcouronnes, France
| | - Bénédicte Thiebot
- Université
Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, CY Cergy Paris Université, CNRS, LAMBE, 95000, Cergy, France
| | - Benjamin Cressiot
- Université
Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, CY Cergy Paris Université, CNRS, LAMBE, 95000, Cergy, France
| | - Juan Pelta
- Université
Paris-Saclay, Univ Evry, CY Cergy Paris Université, CNRS, LAMBE, 91025, Evry-Courcouronnes, France
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5
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Lyda BR, Leary GP, Farnsworth J, Seaver B, Silvius D, Kavanaugh MP, Esslinger CS, Natale NR. Discovery and Synthesis of Hydroxy-l-Proline Blockers of the Neutral Amino Acid Transporters SLC1A4 (ASCT1) and SLC1A5 (ASCT2). Molecules 2024; 29:2330. [PMID: 38792190 PMCID: PMC11123841 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29102330] [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: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
As a conformationally restricted amino acid, hydroxy-l-proline is a versatile scaffold for the synthesis of diverse multi-functionalized pyrrolidines for probing the ligand binding sites of biological targets. With the goal to develop new inhibitors of the widely expressed amino acid transporters SLC1A4 and SLC1A5 (also known as ASCT1 and ASCT2), we synthesized and functionally screened synthetic hydroxy-l-proline derivatives using electrophysiological and radiolabeled uptake methods against amino acid transporters from the SLC1, SLC7, and SLC38 solute carrier families. We have discovered a novel class of alkoxy hydroxy-pyrrolidine carboxylic acids (AHPCs) that act as selective high-affinity inhibitors of the SLC1 family neutral amino acid transporters SLC1A4 and SLC1A5. AHPCs were computationally docked into a homology model and assessed with respect to predicted molecular orientation and functional activity. The series of hydroxyproline analogs identified here represent promising new agents to pharmacologically modulate SLC1A4 and SLC1A5 amino acid exchangers which are implicated in numerous pathophysiological processes such as cancer and neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brent R. Lyda
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, 32 Campus Dr., Missoula, MT 59812, USA
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Montana, 32 Campus Dr., Missoula, MT 59812, USA (B.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Gregory P. Leary
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Montana, 32 Campus Dr., Missoula, MT 59812, USA (B.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Jill Farnsworth
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Montana, 32 Campus Dr., Missoula, MT 59812, USA (B.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Benjamin Seaver
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Montana, 32 Campus Dr., Missoula, MT 59812, USA (B.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Derek Silvius
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Montana, 32 Campus Dr., Missoula, MT 59812, USA (B.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Michael P. Kavanaugh
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Montana, 32 Campus Dr., Missoula, MT 59812, USA (B.S.); (D.S.)
| | - C. Sean Esslinger
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Montana, 32 Campus Dr., Missoula, MT 59812, USA (B.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Nicholas R. Natale
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Montana, 32 Campus Dr., Missoula, MT 59812, USA (B.S.); (D.S.)
- Medicinal Chemistry Graduate Program, University of Montana, 32 Campus Dr., Missoula, MT 59812, USA
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6
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Guan S, Li Y, Xin Y, Wang D, Lu P, Han F, Xu H. Deciphering the dual role of N-methyl-D-Aspartate receptor in postoperative cognitive dysfunction: A comprehensive review. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 971:176520. [PMID: 38527701 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176520] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a common complication following surgery, adversely impacting patients' recovery, increasing the risk of negative outcomes, prolonged hospitalization, and higher mortality rates. The N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, crucial for learning, memory, and synaptic plasticity, plays a significant role in the development of POCD. Various perioperative factors, including age and anesthetic use, can reduce NMDA receptor function, while surgical stress, inflammation, and pain may lead to its excessive activation. This review consolidates preclinical and clinical research to explore the intricate relationship between perioperative factors affecting NMDA receptor functionality and the onset of POCD. It discusses the influence of aging, anesthetic administration, perioperative injury, pain, and inflammation on the NMDA receptor-related pathophysiology of POCD. The comprehensive analysis presented aims to identify effective treatment targets for POCD, contributing to the improvement of patient outcomes post-surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaodi Guan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yali Li
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yueyang Xin
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Danning Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Pei Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Fanglong Han
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangyang Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Xiangyang, 441003, China
| | - Hui Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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7
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Lu LP, Chang WH, Mao YW, Cheng MC, Zhuang XY, Kuo CS, Lai YA, Shih TM, Chou TY, Tsai GE. The Development of a Regulator of Human Serine Racemase for N-Methyl-D-aspartate Function. Biomedicines 2024; 12:853. [PMID: 38672207 PMCID: PMC11048566 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12040853] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
It is crucial to regulate N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) function bivalently depending on the central nervous system (CNS) conditions. CNS disorders with NMDA hyperfunction are involved in the pathogenesis of neurotoxic and/or neurodegenerative disorders with elevated D-serine, one of the NMDA receptor co-agonists. On the contrary, NMDA-enhancing agents have been demonstrated to improve psychotic symptoms and cognition in CNS disorders with NMDA hypofunction. Serine racemase (SR), the enzyme regulating both D- and L-serine levels through both racemization (catalysis from L-serine to D-serine) and β-elimination (degradation of both D- and L-serine), emerges as a promising target for bidirectional regulation of NMDA function. In this study, we explored using dimethyl malonate (DMM), a pro-drug of the SR inhibitor malonate, to modulate NMDA activity in C57BL/6J male mice via intravenous administration. Unexpectedly, 400 mg/kg DMM significantly elevated, rather than decreased (as a racemization inhibitor), D-serine levels in the cerebral cortex and plasma. This outcome prompted us to investigate the regulatory effects of dodecagalloyl-α-D-xylose (α12G), a synthesized tannic acid analog, on SR activity. Our findings showed that α12G enhanced the racemization activity of human SR by about 8-fold. The simulated and fluorescent assay of binding affinity suggested a noncooperative binding close to the catalytic residues, Lys56 and Ser84. Moreover, α12G treatment can improve behaviors associated with major CNS disorders with NMDA hypofunction including hyperactivity, prepulse inhibition deficit, and memory impairment in animal models of positive symptoms and cognitive impairment of psychosis. In sum, our findings suggested α12G is a potential therapeutic for treating CNS disorders with NMDA hypofunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu-Ping Lu
- Department of Research and Development, SyneuRx International (Taiwan) Corp., New Taipei 221416, Taiwan; (L.-P.L.); (W.-H.C.); (Y.-W.M.); (M.-C.C.); (X.-Y.Z.); (C.-S.K.); (Y.-A.L.); (T.-M.S.)
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112304, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Hua Chang
- Department of Research and Development, SyneuRx International (Taiwan) Corp., New Taipei 221416, Taiwan; (L.-P.L.); (W.-H.C.); (Y.-W.M.); (M.-C.C.); (X.-Y.Z.); (C.-S.K.); (Y.-A.L.); (T.-M.S.)
| | - Yi-Wen Mao
- Department of Research and Development, SyneuRx International (Taiwan) Corp., New Taipei 221416, Taiwan; (L.-P.L.); (W.-H.C.); (Y.-W.M.); (M.-C.C.); (X.-Y.Z.); (C.-S.K.); (Y.-A.L.); (T.-M.S.)
| | - Min-Chi Cheng
- Department of Research and Development, SyneuRx International (Taiwan) Corp., New Taipei 221416, Taiwan; (L.-P.L.); (W.-H.C.); (Y.-W.M.); (M.-C.C.); (X.-Y.Z.); (C.-S.K.); (Y.-A.L.); (T.-M.S.)
| | - Xiao-Yi Zhuang
- Department of Research and Development, SyneuRx International (Taiwan) Corp., New Taipei 221416, Taiwan; (L.-P.L.); (W.-H.C.); (Y.-W.M.); (M.-C.C.); (X.-Y.Z.); (C.-S.K.); (Y.-A.L.); (T.-M.S.)
| | - Chi-Sheng Kuo
- Department of Research and Development, SyneuRx International (Taiwan) Corp., New Taipei 221416, Taiwan; (L.-P.L.); (W.-H.C.); (Y.-W.M.); (M.-C.C.); (X.-Y.Z.); (C.-S.K.); (Y.-A.L.); (T.-M.S.)
| | - Yi-An Lai
- Department of Research and Development, SyneuRx International (Taiwan) Corp., New Taipei 221416, Taiwan; (L.-P.L.); (W.-H.C.); (Y.-W.M.); (M.-C.C.); (X.-Y.Z.); (C.-S.K.); (Y.-A.L.); (T.-M.S.)
| | - Tsai-Miao Shih
- Department of Research and Development, SyneuRx International (Taiwan) Corp., New Taipei 221416, Taiwan; (L.-P.L.); (W.-H.C.); (Y.-W.M.); (M.-C.C.); (X.-Y.Z.); (C.-S.K.); (Y.-A.L.); (T.-M.S.)
| | - Teh-Ying Chou
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112304, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Department of Pathology and Precision Medicine Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 112304, Taiwan
| | - Guochuan Emil Tsai
- Department of Research and Development, SyneuRx International (Taiwan) Corp., New Taipei 221416, Taiwan; (L.-P.L.); (W.-H.C.); (Y.-W.M.); (M.-C.C.); (X.-Y.Z.); (C.-S.K.); (Y.-A.L.); (T.-M.S.)
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112304, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Science, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
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8
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Chen J, Fang S, Cai Z, Zhao Q, Yang N. Dietary serine intake is associated with cognitive function among US adults. Food Funct 2024; 15:3744-3751. [PMID: 38498094 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo04972h] [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: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Aims: Diet can modify the risk of cognitive decline. However, research on the relationship between dietary intake of serine and cognitive decline remains limited and this study aims to reveal the relationship between them. Methods: Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1988-1994 (n = 1837) were used to explore the relationship between dietary intakes of serine and cognitive function through quantile multiple linear analysis and restricted cubic splines (RCS) regression. We also investigated 9 food groups for serine intake according to the USDA food code to determine which food sources of serine are beneficial for cognitive function. Results: The top three serine intakes were attributed to meat/poultry/fish, grain products, and milk or milk products. Multivariable linear regression analysis showed that a significant negative linear trend was observed between serine intake and SDLT. RCS results showed a non-linear relationship between serine intake and SDLT or SDST. Among the 9 food group intakes, milk or milk products sourced serine intake was good for memory ability. Conclusion: serine, particularly serine from milk or milk products, has a beneficial impact on memory ability in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China.
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, China
| | - Shuhua Fang
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanjing Lishui People's Hospital, Zhongda Hospital Lishui Branch Southeast University, Nanjing 211200, China
| | - Zeman Cai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515000, Guangdong, China
| | - Qing Zhao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China.
| | - Nian Yang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China.
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, China
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9
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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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10
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Stanca S, Rossetti M, Bokulic Panichi L, Bongioanni P. The Cellular Dysfunction of the Brain-Blood Barrier from Endothelial Cells to Astrocytes: The Pathway towards Neurotransmitter Impairment in Schizophrenia. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1250. [PMID: 38279249 PMCID: PMC10816922 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021250] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ) is an articulated psychiatric syndrome characterized by a combination of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Our intention is to present a pathogenetic model combining SCZ alterations and the main cellular actors of the blood-brain barrier (BBB): endothelial cells (ECs), pericytes, and astrocytes. The homeostasis of the BBB is preserved by the neurovascular unit which is constituted by ECs, astrocytes and microglia, neurons, and the extracellular matrix. The role of the BBB is strictly linked to its ability to preserve the biochemical integrity of brain parenchyma integrity. In SCZ, there is an increased BBB permeability, demonstrated by elevated levels of albumin and immunoglobulins in the cerebrospinal fluid, and this is the result of an intrinsic endothelial impairment. Increased BBB permeability would lead to enhanced concentrations of neurotoxic and neuroactive molecules in the brain. The pathogenetic involvement of astrocytes in SCZ reverberates its consequences on BBB, together with the impact on its permeability and selectivity represented by the EC and pericyte damage occurring in the psychotic picture. Understanding the strict interaction between ECs and astrocytes, and its consequent impact on cognition, is diriment not only for comprehension of neurotransmitter dyshomeostasis in SCZ, but also for focusing on other potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Stanca
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Via Savi 10, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- NeuroCare Onlus, 56100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Martina Rossetti
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Via Savi 10, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- NeuroCare Onlus, 56100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Leona Bokulic Panichi
- NeuroCare Onlus, 56100 Pisa, Italy
- Neuroscience Department, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Paolo Bongioanni
- NeuroCare Onlus, 56100 Pisa, Italy
- Neuroscience Department, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56100 Pisa, Italy
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11
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Heresco-Levy U, Lerer B. Synergistic psychedelic - NMDAR modulator treatment for neuropsychiatric disorders. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:146-152. [PMID: 37945694 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02312-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Modern research data suggest a therapeutic role for serotonergic psychedelics in depression and other neuropsychiatric disorders, although psychotomimetic effects may limit their widespread utilization. Serotonergic psychedelics enhance neuroplasticity via serotonin 2 A receptors (5HT2AR) activation and complex serotonergic-glutamatergic interactions involving the ionotropic glutamate receptors, tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) channel antagonists, i.e. ketamine, and glycine modulatory site full and partial agonists, i.e., D-serine (DSR) and D-cycloserine (DCS), share some of these mechanisms of action and have neuroplastic and antidepressant effects. Moreover, procognitive effects have been reported for DSR and DCS and 5HT2AR-NMDAR interactions modulate neuronal excitability in prefrontal cortex and represent a target for new antipsychotics. We hypothesize that the synchronous administration of a psychedelic and a NMDAR modulator may increase the therapeutic impact of each of the treatment components and allow for dose adjustments and improved safety. We propose to initially focus research on the acute concurrent administration of psilocybin and DSR or DCS in depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uriel Heresco-Levy
- Department of Psychiatry, Herzog Medical Center; Hebrew University Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Bernard Lerer
- Hadassah BrainLabs, Center for Psychedelic Research, Hadassah Medical Center, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel.
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12
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Ratz-Mitchem ML, Leary G, Grindeland A, Silvius D, Guter J, Kavanaugh MP, Gunn TM. Generation and characterization of a knock-in mouse model for spastic tetraplegia, thin corpus callosum, and progressive microcephaly (SPATCCM). Mamm Genome 2023; 34:572-585. [PMID: 37642681 PMCID: PMC10680402 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-023-10013-4] [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: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Solute carrier family 1 member 4 (SLC1A4), also referred to as Alanine/Serine/Cysteine/Threonine-preferring Transporter 1 (ASCT1), is a sodium-dependent neutral amino acid transporter. It is expressed in many tissues, including the brain, where it is expressed primarily on astrocytes and plays key roles in neuronal differentiation and development, maintaining neurotransmitter homeostasis, and N-methyl-D-aspartate neurotransmission, through regulation of L- and D-serine. Mutations in SLC1A4 are associated with the rare autosomal recessive neurodevelopmental disorder spastic tetraplegia, thin corpus callosum, and progressive microcephaly (SPATCCM, OMIM 616657). Psychomotor development and speech are significantly impaired in these patients, and many develop seizures. We generated and characterized a knock-in mouse model for the most common mutant allele, which results in a single amino acid change (p.Glu256Lys, or E256K). Homozygous mutants had increased D-serine uptake in the brain, microcephaly, and thin corpus callosum and cortex layer 1. While p.E256K homozygotes showed some significant differences in exploratory behavior relative to wildtype mice, their performance in assays for motor coordination, endurance, learning, and memory was normal, and they showed no significant differences in long-term potentiation. Taken together, these results indicate that the impact of the p.E256K mutation on cognition and motor function is minimal in mice, but other aspects of SLC1A4 function in the brain are conserved. Mice homozygous for p.E256K may be a good model for understanding the developmental basis of the corpus callosum and microcephaly phenotypes observed in SPATCCM patients and assessing whether they are rescued by serine supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Greg Leary
- The McLaughlin Research Institute, 1520 23Rd St. S, Great Falls, MT, 59405, USA
- The Division of Biological Sciences, The University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Andrea Grindeland
- The McLaughlin Research Institute, 1520 23Rd St. S, Great Falls, MT, 59405, USA
| | - Derek Silvius
- The McLaughlin Research Institute, 1520 23Rd St. S, Great Falls, MT, 59405, USA
| | - Joseph Guter
- The McLaughlin Research Institute, 1520 23Rd St. S, Great Falls, MT, 59405, USA
| | - Michael P Kavanaugh
- The McLaughlin Research Institute, 1520 23Rd St. S, Great Falls, MT, 59405, USA.
- The Division of Biological Sciences, The University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA.
- Neuroscience Program, University of Montana, 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, MT, 59803, USA.
| | - Teresa M Gunn
- The McLaughlin Research Institute, 1520 23Rd St. S, Great Falls, MT, 59405, USA.
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13
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Marchesani F, Michielon A, Viale E, Bianchera A, Cavazzini D, Pollegioni L, Murtas G, Mozzarelli A, Bettati S, Peracchi A, Campanini B, Bruno S. Phosphoserine Aminotransferase Pathogenetic Variants in Serine Deficiency Disorders: A Functional Characterization. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1219. [PMID: 37627284 PMCID: PMC10452355 DOI: 10.3390/biom13081219] [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: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In humans, the phosphorylated pathway (PP) converts the glycolytic intermediate D-3-phosphoglycerate (3-PG) into L-serine through the enzymes 3-phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase, phosphoserine aminotransferase (PSAT) and phosphoserine phosphatase. From the pathogenic point of view, the PP in the brain is particularly relevant, as genetic defects of any of the three enzymes are associated with a group of neurometabolic disorders known as serine deficiency disorders (SDDs). We recombinantly expressed and characterized eight variants of PSAT associated with SDDs and two non-SDD associated variants. We show that the pathogenetic mechanisms in SDDs are extremely diverse, including low affinity of the cofactor pyridoxal 5'-phosphate and thermal instability for S179L and G79W PSAT, loss of activity of the holo form for R342W PSAT, aggregation for D100A PSAT, increased Km for one of the substrates with invariant kcats for S43R PSAT, and a combination of increased Km and decreased kcat for C245R PSAT. Finally, we show that the flux through the in vitro reconstructed PP at physiological concentrations of substrates and enzymes is extremely sensitive to alterations of the functional properties of PSAT variants, confirming PSAT dysfunctions as a cause of SSDs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Davide Cavazzini
- Department of Chemistry/Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Loredano Pollegioni
- The Protein Factory 2.0, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Giulia Murtas
- The Protein Factory 2.0, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Bettati
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
- Biopharmanet-TEC, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
- Institute of Biophysics, CNR, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessio Peracchi
- Department of Chemistry/Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Barbara Campanini
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
- Biopharmanet-TEC, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Stefano Bruno
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
- Biopharmanet-TEC, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
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14
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Di Maio A, Nuzzo T, Gilio L, Serra M, Buttari F, Errico F, De Rosa A, Bassi MS, Morelli M, Sasabe J, Sulzer D, Carta M, Centonze D, Usiello A. Homeostasis of serine enantiomers is disrupted in the post-mortem caudate putamen and cerebrospinal fluid of living Parkinson's disease patients. Neurobiol Dis 2023:106203. [PMID: 37336364 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
L-serine generated in astrocytes plays a pivotal role in modulating essential neurometabolic processes, while its enantiomer, D-serine, specifically regulates NMDA receptor (NMDAR) signalling. Despite their physiological relevance in modulating cerebral activity, serine enantiomers metabolism in Parkinson's disease (PD) remains elusive. Using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), we measured D- and L-serine levels along with other amino acids known to modulate NMDAR function, such as L-glutamate, L-aspartate, D-aspartate, and glycine, in the post-mortem caudate putamen (CPu) and superior frontal gyrus (SFG) of PD patients. Moreover, we examined these amino acids in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of de novo living PD, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients versus subjects with other neurological disorders (OND), used as control. We found higher D-serine and L-serine levels in the CPu of PD patients but not in the SFG, a cerebral region that, in contrast to the CPu, is not innervated by nigral dopaminergic terminals. We also highlighted a significant elevation of both serine enantiomers in the CSF samples from PD but not in those of AD and ALS patients, compared with control subjects. By contrast, none or only minor changes were found in the amount of other neuroactive amino acids mentioned above. Our findings identify D-serine and L-serine level upregulation as a biochemical signature associated with nigrostriatal dopaminergic degeneration in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Di Maio
- Laboratory of Translational Neuroscience, Ceinge Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Naples, Italy; Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Tommaso Nuzzo
- Laboratory of Translational Neuroscience, Ceinge Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Naples, Italy; Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Luana Gilio
- Unit of Neurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS), Italy; Faculty of Psychology, Uninettuno Telematic International University, Rome, Italy; Laboratory of Translational Neuroscience, Ceinge Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Naples, Italy
| | - Marcello Serra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Fabio Buttari
- Unit of Neurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | - Francesco Errico
- Laboratory of Translational Neuroscience, Ceinge Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Naples, Italy; Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Portici, Italy
| | - Arianna De Rosa
- Laboratory of Translational Neuroscience, Ceinge Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Naples, Italy; Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | | | - Micaela Morelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy; National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Neuroscience, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Jumpei Sasabe
- Department of Pharmacology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - David Sulzer
- Departments of Psychiatry, Neurology, Pharmacology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Manolo Carta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Diego Centonze
- Unit of Neurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS), Italy; Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Usiello
- Laboratory of Translational Neuroscience, Ceinge Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Naples, Italy; Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy.
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15
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Krishnan KS, Billups B. ASC Transporters Mediate D-Serine Transport into Astrocytes Adjacent to Synapses in the Mouse Brain. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13050819. [PMID: 37238689 DOI: 10.3390/biom13050819] [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: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
D-serine is an important signalling molecule, which activates N-methyl D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) in conjunction with its fellow co-agonist, the neurotransmitter glutamate. Despite its involvement in plasticity and memory related to excitatory synapses, its cellular source and sink remain a question. We hypothesise that astrocytes, a type of glial cell that surrounds synapses, are likely candidates to control the extracellular concentration of D-Serine by removing it from the synaptic space. Using in situ patch clamp recordings and pharmacological manipulation of astrocytes in the CA1 region of the mouse hippocampal brain slices, we investigated the transport of D-serine across the plasma membrane. We observed the D-serine-induced transport-associated currents upon puff-application of 10 mM D-serine on astrocytes. Further, O-benzyl-L-serine and trans-4-hydroxy-proline, known substrate inhibitors of the alanine serine cysteine transporters (ASCT), reduced D-serine uptake. These results indicate that ASCT is a central mediator of astrocytic D-serine transport and plays a role in regulating its synaptic concentration by sequestration into astrocytes. Similar results were observed in astrocytes of the somatosensory cortex and Bergmann glia in the cerebellum, indicative of a general mechanism expressed across a range of brain areas. This removal of synaptic D-serine and its subsequent metabolic degradation are expected to reduce its extracellular availability, influencing NMDAR activation and NMDAR-dependent synaptic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karthik Subramanian Krishnan
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, 131 Garran Road, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Brian Billups
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, 131 Garran Road, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
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16
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Liu Y, Wu Z, Armstrong DW, Wolosker H, Zheng Y. Detection and analysis of chiral molecules as disease biomarkers. Nat Rev Chem 2023; 7:355-373. [PMID: 37117811 PMCID: PMC10175202 DOI: 10.1038/s41570-023-00476-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
The chirality of small metabolic molecules is important in controlling physiological processes and indicating the health status of humans. Abnormal enantiomeric ratios of chiral molecules in biofluids and tissues occur in many diseases, including cancers and kidney and brain diseases. Thus, chiral small molecules are promising biomarkers for disease diagnosis, prognosis, adverse drug-effect monitoring, pharmacodynamic studies and personalized medicine. However, it remains difficult to achieve cost-effective and reliable analysis of small chiral molecules in clinical procedures, in part owing to their large variety and low concentration. In this Review, we describe current and emerging techniques that detect and quantify small-molecule enantiomers and their biological importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoran Liu
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Zilong Wu
- Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
- Texas Materials Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
| | - Daniel W Armstrong
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, USA.
| | - Herman Wolosker
- Department of Biochemistry, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Yuebing Zheng
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
- Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
- Texas Materials Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
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17
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Ratz ML, Leary G, Grindeland A, Silvius D, Guter J, Kavanaugh MP, Gunn TM. Generation and characterization of a knock-in mouse model for Spastic Tetraplegia, Thin Corpus Callosum, and Progressive Microcephaly (SPATCCM). RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2839029. [PMID: 37162879 PMCID: PMC10168478 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2839029/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
SLC1A4 (solute carrier family 1 member 4, also referred to as ASCT1, Alanine/Serine/Cysteine/Threonine-preferring Transporter 1) is a sodium-dependent neutral amino acid transporter. It is highly expressed in many tissues, including the brain, where it is expressed primarily on astrocytes and plays key roles in neuronal differentiation and development, maintaining neurotransmitter homeostasis, and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) neurotransmission, through regulation of L- and D-serine. Mutations in SLC1A4 are associated with the rare autosomal recessive neurodevelopmental disorder spastic tetraplegia, thin corpus callosum, and progressive microcephaly (SPATCCM, OMIM 616657). Psychomotor development and speech are significantly impaired in these patients, and many develop seizures. We generated and characterized a knock-in mouse model for the most common mutant allele, which results in a single amino acid change (p.Glu256Lys, or E256K). Homozygous mutants had increased D-serine uptake in the brain, microcephaly, and thin corpus callosum and cortex layer 1. While p.E256K homozygotes showed some significant differences in exploratory behavior relative to wildtype mice, their performance in assays for motor coordination, endurance, learning, and memory was normal, and they showed no significant differences in long-term potentiation. Taken together, these results indicate that some aspects of SLC1A4 function in brain development are conserved between mice and humans, but the impact of the p.E256K mutation on cognition and motor function is minimal in mice.
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18
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Billard JM, Freret T. Improved NMDA Receptor Activation by the Secreted Amyloid-Protein Precursor-α in Healthy Aging: A Role for D-Serine? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415542. [PMID: 36555191 PMCID: PMC9779005 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Impaired activation of the N-methyl-D-aspartate subtype of glutamate receptors (NMDAR) by D-serine is linked to cognitive aging. Whether this deregulation may be used to initiate pharmacological strategies has yet to be considered. To this end, we performed electrophysiological extracellular recordings at CA3/CA1 synapses in hippocampal slices from young and aged mice. We show that 0.1 nM of the soluble N-terminal recombinant fragment of the secreted amyloid-protein precursor-α (sAPPα) added in the bath significantly increased NMDAR activation in aged but not adult mice without impacting basal synaptic transmission. In addition, sAPPα rescued the age-related deficit of theta-burst-induced long-term potentiation. Significant NMDAR improvement occurred in adult mice when sAPPα was raised to 1 nM, and this effect was drastically reduced in transgenic mice deprived of D-serine through genetic deletion of the synthesizing enzyme serine racemase. Altogether, these results emphasize the interest to consider sAPPα treatment targeting D-serine-dependent NMDAR deregulation to alleviate cognitive aging.
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19
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Lane HY, Lin CH. Diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease Specifically and Sensitively With pLG72 and Cystine/Glutamate Antiporter SLC7A11 AS Blood Biomarkers. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2022; 26:1-8. [PMID: 35986919 PMCID: PMC9850657 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyac053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reliable blood biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease (AD) have been lacking. The D-amino acids oxidase modulator (named pLG72) modulates glutamate N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor activity. The cystine/glutamate antiporter contains a SLC7A11 subunit, which mediates glutamate release. This study aimed to determine the accuracy of pLG72 protein and SLC7A11 mRNA in diagnosing AD. METHODS This study enrolled 130 healthy controls and 109 unmatched AD patients; among them, 40 controls and 70 patients were selected to match by age. We measured their pLG72 protein in plasma and SLC7A11 mRNA in white blood cells. RESULTS AD patients had markedly higher pLG72 levels and SLC7A11 mRNA ΔCT values than healthy controls (in both unmatched and matched cohorts; all 4 P values <.001). The receiver operating characteristics analysis in the unmatched cohorts demonstrated that the pLG72 level had a high specificity (0.900) at the optimal cutoff value of 2.3285, the ΔCT of SLC7A11 mRNA displayed an excellent sensitivity (0.954) at the cutoff of 12.185, and the combined value of pLG72 and SLC7A11 ΔCT determined a favorable area under the curve (AUC) (0.882) at the cutoff of 21.721. The AUC of the combined value surpassed that of either biomarker. The specificity, sensitivity, and AUC of the matched cohort were like those of the unmatched cohort. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that pLG72 protein and SLC7A11 mRNA can distinguish AD patients from healthy controls with excellent specificity and sensitivity, respectively. The combination of pLG72 and SLC7A11 yields better AUC than either, suggesting the superiority of simultaneously measuring both biomarkers in identifying AD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsien-Yuan Lane
- Department of Psychiatry and Brain Disease Research Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan,Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan,Department of Psychology, College of Medical and Health Sciences, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chieh-Hsin Lin
- Correspondence: Chieh-Hsin Lin, MD, PhD, Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, No. 123, Da-Pi Rd, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan ()
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Baier MP, Nagaraja RY, Yarbrough HP, Owen DB, Masingale AM, Ranjit R, Stiles MA, Murphy A, Agbaga MP, Ahmad M, Sherry DM, Kinter MT, Van Remmen H, Logan S. Selective Ablation of Sod2 in Astrocytes Induces Sex-Specific Effects on Cognitive Function, d-Serine Availability, and Astrogliosis. J Neurosci 2022; 42:5992-6006. [PMID: 35760531 PMCID: PMC9351643 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2543-21.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive decline is a debilitating aspect of aging and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease are closely associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, increased reactive oxygen species, neuroinflammation, and astrogliosis. This study investigated the effects of decreased mitochondrial antioxidant response specifically in astrocytes on cognitive performance and neuronal function in C57BL/6J mice using a tamoxifen-inducible astrocyte-specific knockout of manganese superoxide dismutase (aSOD2-KO), a mitochondrial matrix antioxidant that detoxifies superoxide generated during mitochondrial respiration. We reduced astrocyte SOD2 levels in male and female mice at 11-12 months of age and tested in an automated home cage (PhenoTyper) apparatus for diurnal patterns, spatial learning, and memory function at 15 months of age. aSOD2-KO impaired hippocampal-dependent spatial working memory and decreased cognitive flexibility in the reversal phase of the testing paradigm in males. Female aSOD2-KO showed no learning and memory deficits compared with age-matched controls despite significant reduction in hippocampal SOD2 expression. aSOD2-KO males further showed decreased hippocampal long-term potentiation, but paired-pulse facilitation was unaffected. Levels of d-serine, an NMDA receptor coagonist, were also reduced in aSOD2-KO mice, but female knockouts showed a compensatory increase in serine racemase expression. Furthermore, aSOD2-KO mice demonstrated increased density of astrocytes, indicative of astrogliosis, in the hippocampus compared with age-matched controls. These data demonstrate that reduction in mitochondrial antioxidant stress response in astrocytes recapitulates age-related deficits in cognitive function, d-serine availability, and astrogliosis. Therefore, improving astrocyte mitochondrial homeostasis may provide a therapeutic target for intervention for cognitive impairment in aging.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Diminished antioxidant response is associated with increased astrogliosis in aging and in Alzheimer's disease. Manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD2) is an antioxidant in the mitochondrial matrix that detoxifies superoxide and maintains mitochondrial homeostasis. We show that astrocytic ablation of SOD2 impairs hippocampal-dependent plasticity in spatial working memory, reduces long-term potentiation of hippocampal neurons and levels of the neuromodulator d-serine, and increases astrogliosis, consistent with defects in advanced aging and Alzheimer's disease. Our data provide strong evidence for sex-specific effects of astrocytic SOD2 functions in age-related cognitive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew P Baier
- Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
| | - Raghavendra Y Nagaraja
- Department of Cell Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
| | - Hannah P Yarbrough
- Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
| | - Daniel B Owen
- Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
| | - Anthony M Masingale
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
| | - Rojina Ranjit
- Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
| | - Megan A Stiles
- Department of Cell Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
| | - Ashley Murphy
- Aging & Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
| | - Martin-Paul Agbaga
- Department of Cell Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
- Neuroscience Program, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
| | - Mohiuddin Ahmad
- Department of Cell Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
| | - David M Sherry
- Department of Cell Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
- Neuroscience Program, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
| | - Michael T Kinter
- Aging & Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
| | - Holly Van Remmen
- Aging & Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
- Neuroscience Program, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
- VA Oklahoma City Medical Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
| | - Sreemathi Logan
- Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
- Neuroscience Program, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104
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21
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Yoshimura T. Molecular basis and functional development of enzymes related to amino acid metabolism. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2022; 86:1161-1172. [PMID: 35751623 DOI: 10.1093/bbb/zbac102] [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: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Enzymology, the study of enzyme structures and reaction mechanisms can be considered a classical discipline. However, enzymes cannot be freely designed to catalyze desired reactions yet, and enzymology is by no means a complete science. I have long studied the reaction mechanisms of enzymes related to amino acid metabolism, such as aminotransferases and racemases, which depend on pyridoxal 5'-phosphate, a coenzyme form of vitamin B6. During these studies, I have often been reminded that enzymatic reactions are extremely sophisticated processes based on chemical principles and enzyme structures, and have often been amazed at the evolutionary mechanisms that bestowed them with such structures. In this review, I described the reaction mechanism of various pyridoxal enzymes especially related to D-amino acids metabolism, whose roles in mammals have recently attracted attention. I hope to convey some of the significance and interest in enzymology through this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tohru Yoshimura
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University
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22
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Nava-Gómez L, Calero-Vargas I, Higinio-Rodríguez F, Vázquez-Prieto B, Olivares-Moreno R, Ortiz-Retana J, Aranda P, Hernández-Chan N, Rojas-Piloni G, Alcauter S, López-Hidalgo M. AGING-ASSOCIATED COGNITIVE DECLINE IS REVERSED BY D-SERINE SUPPLEMENTATION. eNeuro 2022; 9:ENEURO.0176-22.2022. [PMID: 35584913 PMCID: PMC9186414 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0176-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain aging is a natural process that involves structural and functional changes that lead to cognitive decline, even in healthy subjects. This detriment has been associated with N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) hypofunction due to a reduction in the brain levels of D-serine, the endogenous NMDAR co-agonist. However, it is not clear if D-serine supplementation could be used as an intervention to reduce or reverse age-related brain alterations. In the present work, we aimed to analyze the D-serine effect on aging-associated alterations in cellular and large-scale brain systems that could support cognitive flexibility in rats. We found that D-serine supplementation reverts the age-related decline in cognitive flexibility, frontal dendritic spine density, and partially restored large-scale functional connectivity without inducing nephrotoxicity; instead, D-serine restored the thickness of the renal epithelial cells that were affected by age. Our results suggest that D-serine could be used as a therapeutic target to reverse age-related brain alterations.SIGNIFICANT STATEMENTAge-related behavioral changes in cognitive performance occur as a physiological process of aging. Then, it is important to explore possible therapeutics to decrease, retard or reverse aging effects on the brain. NMDA receptor hypofunction contributes to the aging-associated cognitive decline. In the aged brain, there is a reduction in the brain levels of the NMDAR co-agonist, D-Serine. However, it is unclear if chronic D-serine supplementation could revert the age-detriment in brain functions. Our results show that D-serine supplementation reverts the age-associated decrease in cognitive flexibility, functional brain connectivity, and neuronal morphology. Our findings raise the possibility that restoring the brain levels of D-serine could be used as a therapeutic target to recover brain alterations associated with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Nava-Gómez
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla. UNAM
- Facultad de Medicina. UAQ
| | - I Calero-Vargas
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla. UNAM
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - F Higinio-Rodríguez
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla. UNAM
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - B Vázquez-Prieto
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla. UNAM
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - R Olivares-Moreno
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - J Ortiz-Retana
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - P Aranda
- Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, UAQ
| | | | - G Rojas-Piloni
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - S Alcauter
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - M López-Hidalgo
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla. UNAM
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D-Amino Acids as a Biomarker in Schizophrenia. Diseases 2022; 10:diseases10010009. [PMID: 35225861 PMCID: PMC8883943 DOI: 10.3390/diseases10010009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
D-amino acids may play key roles for specific physiological functions in different organs including the brain. Importantly, D-amino acids have been detected in several neurological disorders such as schizophrenia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and age-related disorders, reflecting the disease conditions. Relationships between D-amino acids and neurophysiology may involve the significant contribution of D-Serine or D-Aspartate to the synaptic function, including neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity. Gut-microbiota could play important roles in the brain-function, since bacteria in the gut provide a significant contribution to the host pool of D-amino acids. In addition, the alteration of the composition of the gut microbiota might lead to schizophrenia. Furthermore, D-amino acids are known as a physiologically active substance, constituting useful biomarkers of several brain disorders including schizophrenia. In this review, we wish to provide an outline of the roles of D-amino acids in brain health and neuropsychiatric disorders with a focus on schizophrenia, which may shed light on some of the superior diagnoses and/or treatments of schizophrenia.
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