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Ye J, Duan C, Han J, Chen J, Sun N, Li Y, Yuan T, Peng D. Peripheral mitochondrial DNA as a neuroinflammatory biomarker for major depressive disorder. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1541-1554. [PMID: 38934398 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In the pathogenesis of major depressive disorder, chronic stress-related neuroinflammation hinders favorable prognosis and antidepressant response. Mitochondrial DNA may be an inflammatory trigger, after its release from stress-induced dysfunctional central nervous system mitochondria into peripheral circulation. This evidence supports the potential use of peripheral mitochondrial DNA as a neuroinflammatory biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of major depressive disorder. Herein, we critically review the neuroinflammation theory in major depressive disorder, providing compelling evidence that mitochondrial DNA release acts as a critical biological substrate, and that it constitutes the neuroinflammatory disease pathway. After its release, mitochondrial DNA can be carried in the exosomes and transported to extracellular spaces in the central nervous system and peripheral circulation. Detectable exosomes render encaged mitochondrial DNA relatively stable. This mitochondrial DNA in peripheral circulation can thus be directly detected in clinical practice. These characteristics illustrate the potential for mitochondrial DNA to serve as an innovative clinical biomarker and molecular treatment target for major depressive disorder. This review also highlights the future potential value of clinical applications combining mitochondrial DNA with a panel of other biomarkers, to improve diagnostic precision in major depressive disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinmei Ye
- Division of Mood Disorder, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cong Duan
- Division of Mood Disorder, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaxin Han
- Department of Psychiatry, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Jinrong Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Ning Sun
- Department of Psychiatry, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Brain Health Institute, National Center for Mental Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tifei Yuan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Brain Health Institute, National Center for Mental Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Daihui Peng
- Division of Mood Disorder, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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2
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Frye RE, Rincon N, McCarty PJ, Brister D, Scheck AC, Rossignol DA. Biomarkers of mitochondrial dysfunction in autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 197:106520. [PMID: 38703861 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106520] [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: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting 1 in 36 children and is associated with physiological abnormalities, most notably mitochondrial dysfunction, at least in a subset of individuals. This systematic review and meta-analysis discovered 204 relevant articles which evaluated biomarkers of mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD individuals. Significant elevations (all p < 0.01) in the prevalence of lactate (17%), pyruvate (41%), alanine (15%) and creatine kinase (9%) were found in ASD. Individuals with ASD had significant differences (all p < 0.01) with moderate to large effect sizes (Cohen's d' ≥ 0.6) compared to controls in mean pyruvate, lactate-to-pyruvate ratio, ATP, and creatine kinase. Some studies found abnormal TCA cycle metabolites associated with ASD. Thirteen controlled studies reported mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletions or variations in the ASD group in blood, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, lymphocytes, leucocytes, granulocytes, and brain. Meta-analyses discovered significant differences (p < 0.01) in copy number of mtDNA overall and in ND1, ND4 and CytB genes. Four studies linked specific mtDNA haplogroups to ASD. A series of studies found a subgroup of ASD with elevated mitochondrial respiration which was associated with increased sensitivity of the mitochondria to physiological stressors and neurodevelopmental regression. Lactate, pyruvate, lactate-to-pyruvate ratio, carnitine, and acyl-carnitines were associated with clinical features such as delays in language, social interaction, cognition, motor skills, and with repetitive behaviors and gastrointestinal symptoms, although not all studies found an association. Lactate, carnitine, acyl-carnitines, ATP, CoQ10, as well as mtDNA variants, heteroplasmy, haplogroups and copy number were associated with ASD severity. Variability was found across biomarker studies primarily due to differences in collection and processing techniques as well as the intrinsic heterogeneity of the ASD population. Several studies reported alterations in mitochondrial metabolism in mothers of children with ASD and in neonates who develop ASD. Treatments targeting mitochondria, particularly carnitine and ubiquinol, appear beneficial in ASD. The link between mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD and common physiological abnormalities in individuals with ASD including gastrointestinal disorders, oxidative stress, and immune dysfunction is outlined. Several subtypes of mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD are discussed, including one related to neurodevelopmental regression, another related to alterations in microbiome metabolites, and another related to elevations in acyl-carnitines. Mechanisms linking abnormal mitochondrial function with alterations in prenatal brain development and postnatal brain function are outlined. Given the multisystem complexity of some individuals with ASD, this review presents evidence for the mitochondria being central to ASD by contributing to abnormalities in brain development, cognition, and comorbidities such as immune and gastrointestinal dysfunction as well as neurodevelopmental regression. A diagnostic approach to identify mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD is outlined. From this evidence, it is clear that many individuals with ASD have alterations in mitochondrial function which may need to be addressed in order to achieve optimal clinical outcomes. The fact that alterations in mitochondrial metabolism may be found during pregnancy and early in the life of individuals who eventually develop ASD provides promise for early life predictive biomarkers of ASD. Further studies may improve the understanding of the role of the mitochondria in ASD by better defining subgroups and understanding the molecular mechanisms driving some of the unique changes found in mitochondrial function in those with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Frye
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Rossignol Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
| | | | - Patrick J McCarty
- Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70113, United States of America.
| | | | - Adrienne C Scheck
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States of America.
| | - Daniel A Rossignol
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Rossignol Medical Center, Aliso Viejo, CA, USA
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Buchanan E, Mahony C, Bam S, Jaffer M, Macleod S, Mangali A, van der Watt M, de Wet S, Theart R, Jacobs C, Loos B, O'Ryan C. Propionic acid induces alterations in mitochondrial morphology and dynamics in SH-SY5Y cells. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13248. [PMID: 37582965 PMCID: PMC10427685 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40130-8] [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: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Propionic acid (PPA) is used to study the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodevelopmental conditions like autism spectrum disorders. PPA is known to disrupt mitochondrial biogenesis, metabolism, and turnover. However, the effect of PPA on mitochondrial dynamics, fission, and fusion remains challenging to study due to the complex temporal nature of these mechanisms. Here, we use complementary quantitative visualization techniques to examine how PPA influences mitochondrial ultrastructure, morphology, and dynamics in neuronal-like SH-SY5Y cells. PPA (5 mM) induced a significant decrease in mitochondrial area (p < 0.01), Feret's diameter and perimeter (p < 0.05), and in area2 (p < 0.01). Mitochondrial event localiser analysis demonstrated a significant increase in fission and fusion events (p < 0.05) that preserved mitochondrial network integrity under stress. Moreover, mRNA expression of cMYC (p < 0.0001), NRF1 (p < 0.01), TFAM (p < 0.05), STOML2 (p < 0.0001), and OPA1 (p < 0.01) was significantly decreased. This illustrates a remodeling of mitochondrial morphology, biogenesis, and dynamics to preserve function under stress. Our data provide new insights into the influence of PPA on mitochondrial dynamics and highlight the utility of visualization techniques to study the complex regulatory mechanisms involved in the mitochondrial stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Buchanan
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
| | - Caitlyn Mahony
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
| | - Sophia Bam
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
| | - Mohamed Jaffer
- Electron Microscope Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
| | - Sarah Macleod
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
| | - Asandile Mangali
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, Stellenbosch, 7602, South Africa
| | - Mignon van der Watt
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
| | - Sholto de Wet
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, Stellenbosch, 7602, South Africa
| | - Rensu Theart
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, Stellenbosch, 7602, South Africa
| | - Caron Jacobs
- Department of Pathology, Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa and IDM Microscopy Platform, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
| | - Ben Loos
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, Stellenbosch, 7602, South Africa
| | - Colleen O'Ryan
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa.
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa.
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4
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Al-Kafaji G, Jahrami HA, Alwehaidah MS, Alshammari Y, Husni M. Mitochondrial DNA copy number in autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1196035. [PMID: 37484684 PMCID: PMC10361772 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1196035] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Several reports suggest that altered mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNA-cn), a common biomarker for aberrant mitochondrial function, is implicated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but the results are still elusive. Methods A meta-analysis was performed to summarize the current indication and to provide a more precise assessment of the mtDNA-cn in ASD and ADHD. A search in the MEDLINE-PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE databases was done to identify related studies up to the end of February 2023. The meta-analysis was conducted according to recommendations of the Cochrane Handbook of Systematic Reviews. Results Fourteen studies involving 666 cases with ASD and ADHD and 585 controls were collected and judged relevant for the systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled results by a random effects meta-analysis was reported as a geometric mean of the estimated average response ratio and 95% confidence interval. Overall analysis of studies reported differences in mtDNA-cn in blood samples (k = 10) and non-blood samples (brain tissues and oral samples; k = 4) suggested significantly higher mtDNA-cn in patients compared to controls (p = 0.0275). Sub-analysis by stratifying studies based on tissue type, showed no significant increase in mtDNA-cn in blood samples among patients and controls (p = 0.284). Conversely, higher mtDNA-cn was observed in non-blood samples in patients than in controls (p = 0.0122). Further stratified analysis based on blood-cell compositions as potential confounds showed no significant difference in mtDNA-cn in peripheral blood samples of patients comparted to controls (p = 0.074). In addition, stratified analysis of aged-matched ASD and ADHD patients and controls revealed no significant difference in mtDNA-cn in blood samples between patients and controls (p = 0.214), whereas a significant increase in mtDNA-cn was observed in non-blood samples between patients and controls (p < 0.001). Finally, when the mtDNA-cn was analyzed in blood samples of aged-matched patients with ASD (peripheral blood, leukocytes, and PBMCs) or ADHD (peripheral blood), no significant difference in mtDNA-cn was observed between ASD patients and controls (p = 0.385), while a significant increase in mtDNA-cn was found between ADHD patients and controls (p = 0.033). Conclusion In this first meta-analysis of the evaluation of mtDNA-cn in ASD/ADHD, our results show elevated mtDNA-cn in ASD and ADHD, further emphasizing the implication of mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodevelopmental disorders. However, our results indicate that the mtDNA-cn in blood is not reflected in other tissues in ASD/ADHD, and the true relationship between blood-derived mtDNA-cn and ASD/ADHD remains to be defined in future studies. The importance of blood-cell compositions as confounders of blood-based mtDNA-cn measurement and the advantages of salivary mtDNA-cn should be considered in future studies. Moreover, the potential of mtDNA-cn as a biomarker for mitochondrial malfunction in neurodevelopmental disorders deserves further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghada Al-Kafaji
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Al-Jawhara Centre for Molecular Medicine, Genetics, and Inherited Disorders, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Haitham Ali Jahrami
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
- Government Hospital, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Materah Salem Alwehaidah
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Faculty of Allied Health, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | | | - Mariwan Husni
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
- Department of Psychiatry, Northern Ontarion School of Medicine University, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada
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5
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Cieślik M, Zawadzka A, Czapski GA, Wilkaniec A, Adamczyk A. Developmental Stage-Dependent Changes in Mitochondrial Function in the Brain of Offspring Following Prenatal Maternal Immune Activation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087243. [PMID: 37108406 PMCID: PMC10138707 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087243] [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: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal immune activation (MIA) is an important risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism. The aim of the current study was to investigate the development-dependent changes in the mitochondrial function of MIA-exposed offspring, which may contribute to autism-like deficits. MIA was evoked by the single intraperitoneal administration of lipopolysaccharide to pregnant rats at gestation day 9.5, and several aspects of mitochondrial function in fetuses and in the brains of seven-day-old pups and adolescent offspring were analyzed along with oxidative stress parameters measurement. It was found that MIA significantly increased the activity of NADPH oxidase (NOX), an enzyme generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the fetuses and in the brain of seven-day-old pups, but not in the adolescent offspring. Although a lower mitochondrial membrane potential accompanied by a decreased ATP level was already observed in the fetuses and in the brain of seven-day-old pups, persistent alterations of ROS, mitochondrial membrane depolarization, and lower ATP generation with concomitant electron transport chain complexes downregulation were observed only in the adolescent offspring. We suggest that ROS observed in infancy are most likely of a NOX activity origin, whereas in adolescence, ROS are produced by damaged mitochondria. The accumulation of dysfunctional mitochondria leads to the intense release of free radicals that trigger oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, resulting in an interlinked vicious cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Cieślik
- Department of Cellular Signalling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Zawadzka
- Department of Cellular Signalling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grzegorz A Czapski
- Department of Cellular Signalling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Wilkaniec
- Department of Cellular Signalling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agata Adamczyk
- Department of Cellular Signalling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
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6
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Norikura T, Sasaki Y, Kojima-Yuasa A, Kon A. Glyoxylic Acid, an α-Keto Acid Metabolite Derived from Glycine, Promotes Myogenesis in C2C12 Cells. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15071763. [PMID: 37049603 PMCID: PMC10096605 DOI: 10.3390/nu15071763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
α-Keto acids may help prevent malnutrition in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), who consume protein-restricted diets, because they serve as amino acid sources without producing nitrogenous waste compounds. However, the physiological roles of α-keto acids, especially those derived from non-essential amino acids, remain unclear. In this study, we examined the effect of glyoxylic acid (GA), an α-keto acid metabolite derived from glycine, on myogenesis in C2C12 cells. Differentiation and mitochondrial biogenesis were used as myogenesis indicators. Treatment with GA for 6 d resulted in an increase in the expression of differentiation markers (myosin heavy chain II and myogenic regulatory factors), mitochondrial biogenesis, and intracellular amounts of amino acids (glycine, serine, and alanine) and their metabolites (citric acid and succinic acid). In addition, GA treatment suppressed the 2.5-µM dexamethasone (Dex)-induced increase in mRNA levels of ubiquitin ligases (Trim63 and Fbxo32), muscle atrophy markers. These results indicate that GA promotes myogenesis, suppresses Dex-induced muscle atrophy, and is metabolized to amino acids in muscle cells. Although further in vivo experiments are needed, GA may be a beneficial nutrient for ameliorating the loss of muscle mass, strength, and function in patients with CKD on a strict dietary protein restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshio Norikura
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Health Science, Aomori University of Health and Welfare, Aomori 030-8505, Japan
| | - Yutaro Sasaki
- Department of Nutrition, Graduate School of Human Life and Ecology, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka 558-8585, Japan
| | - Akiko Kojima-Yuasa
- Department of Nutrition, Graduate School of Human Life and Ecology, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka 558-8585, Japan
| | - Atsushi Kon
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Health Science, Aomori University of Health and Welfare, Aomori 030-8505, Japan
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7
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Trinchese G, Cimmino F, Cavaliere G, Catapano A, Fogliano C, Lama A, Pirozzi C, Cristiano C, Russo R, Petrella L, Meli R, Mattace Raso G, Crispino M, Avallone B, Mollica MP. The Hepatic Mitochondrial Alterations Exacerbate Meta-Inflammation in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:1990. [PMID: 36290713 PMCID: PMC9598797 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11101990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 07/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of the liver in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), developmental disabilities characterized by impairments in social interactions and repetitive behavioral patterns, has been poorly investigated. In ASD, it has been shown a dysregulation of gut-brain crosstalk, a communication system able to influence metabolic homeostasis, as well as brain development, mood and cognitive functions. The liver, with its key role in inflammatory and metabolic states, represents the crucial metabolic organ in this crosstalk. Indeed, through the portal vein, the liver receives not only nutrients but also numerous factors derived from the gut and visceral adipose tissue, which modulate metabolism and hepatic mitochondrial functions. Here, we investigated, in an animal model of ASD (BTBR mice), the involvement of hepatic mitochondria in the regulation of inflammatory state and liver damage. We observed increased inflammation and oxidative stress linked to hepatic mitochondrial dysfunction, steatotic hepatocytes, and marked mitochondrial fission in BTBR mice. Our preliminary study provides a better understanding of the pathophysiology of ASD and could open the way to identifying hepatic mitochondria as targets for innovative therapeutic strategies for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Trinchese
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Fabiano Cimmino
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Gina Cavaliere
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Angela Catapano
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Fogliano
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Adriano Lama
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Pirozzi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia Cristiano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Russo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Lidia Petrella
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Meli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Mattace Raso
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Task Force on Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Marianna Crispino
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Bice Avallone
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Pina Mollica
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
- Task Force on Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
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Shen L, Zhang H, Lin J, Gao Y, Chen M, Khan NU, Tang X, Hong Q, Feng C, Zhao Y, Cao X. A Combined Proteomics and Metabolomics Profiling to Investigate the Genetic Heterogeneity of Autistic Children. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:3529-3545. [PMID: 35348996 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02801-x] [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: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has become one of the most common neurological developmental disorders in children. However, the study of ASD diagnostic markers faces significant challenges due to the existence of heterogeneity. In this study, genetic testing was performed on children who were clinically diagnosed with ASD. Children with ASD susceptibility genes and healthy controls were studied. The proteomics of plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) as well as plasma metabolomics were carried out. The results showed that although there was genetic heterogeneity in children with ASD, the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in plasma, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and differential metabolites in plasma could still effectively distinguish autistic children from controls. The mechanism associated with them focuses on several common and previously reported mechanisms of ASD. The biomarkers for ASD diagnosis could be found by taking differentially expressed proteins and differential metabolites into consideration. Integrating omics data, glycerophospholipid metabolism and N-glycan biosynthesis might play a critical role in the pathogenesis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liming Shen
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
| | - Huajie Zhang
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China.,Brain Disease and Big Data Research Institute, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Lin
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China.,Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Gao
- Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Baoan, Shenzhen, 518100, People's Republic of China
| | - Margy Chen
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Naseer Ullah Khan
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxiao Tang
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Hong
- Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Baoan, Shenzhen, 518100, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengyun Feng
- Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Baoan, Shenzhen, 518100, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxi Zhao
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xueshan Cao
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China.
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9
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Erbescu A, Papuc SM, Budisteanu M, Arghir A, Neagu M. Re-emerging concepts of immune dysregulation in autism spectrum disorders. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1006612. [PMID: 36339838 PMCID: PMC9626859 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1006612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by communication and social interaction deficits, and by restricted interests and stereotyped, repetitive behavior patterns. ASD has a strong genetic component and a complex architecture characterized by the interplay of rare and common genetic variants. Recently, increasing evidence suggest a significant contribution of immune system dysregulation in ASD. The present paper reviews the latest updates regarding the altered immune landscape of this complex disorder highlighting areas with potential for biomarkers discovery as well as personalization of therapeutic approaches. Cross-talk between the central nervous system and immune system has long been envisaged and recent evidence brings insights into the pathways connecting the brain to the immune system. Disturbance of cytokine levels plays an important role in the establishment of a neuroinflammatory milieu in ASD. Several other immune molecules involved in antigen presentation and inflammatory cellular phenotypes are also at play in ASD. Maternal immune activation, the presence of brain-reactive antibodies and autoimmunity are other potential prenatal and postnatal contributors to ASD pathophysiology. The molecular players involved in oxidative-stress response and mitochondrial system function, are discussed as contributors to the pro-inflammatory pattern. The gastrointestinal inflammation pathways proposed to play a role in ASD are also discussed. Moreover, the body of evidence regarding some of the genetic factors linked to the immune system dysregulation is reviewed and discussed. Last, but not least, the epigenetic traits and their interactions with the immune system are reviewed as an expanding field in ASD research. Understanding the immune-mediated pathways that influence brain development and function, metabolism, and intestinal homeostasis, may lead to the identification of robust diagnostic or predictive biomarkers for ASD individuals. Thus, novel therapeutic approaches could be developed, ultimately aiming to improve their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Erbescu
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania.,Faculty of Biology, Doctoral School, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Magdalena Budisteanu
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania.,Prof. Dr. Alex. Obregia Clinical Hospital of Psychiatry, Bucharest, Romania.,Faculty of Medicine, Titu Maiorescu University, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Aurora Arghir
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Monica Neagu
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania.,Faculty of Biology, Doctoral School, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania.,Colentina Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
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10
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Balachandar V, Rajagopalan K, Jayaramayya K, Jeevanandam M, Iyer M. Mitochondrial dysfunction: A hidden trigger of autism? Genes Dis 2021; 8:629-639. [PMID: 34291134 PMCID: PMC8278534 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2020.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorder with no precise etiology. Deficits in cognitive functions uncover at early stages and are known to have an environmental and genetic basis. Since autism is multifaceted and also linked with other comorbidities associated with various organs, there is a possibility that there may be a fundamental cellular process responsible for this. These reasons place mitochondria at the point of interest as it is involved in multiple cellular processes predominantly involving metabolism. Mitochondria encoded genes were taken into consideration lately because it is inherited maternally, has its own genome and also functions the time of embryo development. Various researches have linked mitochondrial mishaps like oxidative stress, ROS production and mt-DNA copy number variations to autism. Despite dramatic advances in autism research worldwide, the studies focusing on mitochondrial dysfunction in autism is rather minimal, especially in India. India, owing to its rich diversity, may be able to contribute significantly to autism research. It is vital to urge more studies in this domain as it may help to completely understand the basics of the condition apart from a genetic standpoint. This review focuses on the worldwide and Indian scenario of autism research; mitochondrial abnormalities in autism and possible therapeutic approaches to combat it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vellingiri Balachandar
- Human Molecular Genetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641046, India
| | - Kamarajan Rajagopalan
- Human Molecular Genetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641046, India
| | - Kaavya Jayaramayya
- Department of Zoology, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641043, India
| | - Madesh Jeevanandam
- Human Molecular Genetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641046, India
- Department of Biochemistry, PSG College of Arts and Sciences, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641014, India
| | - Mahalaxmi Iyer
- Department of Zoology, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641043, India
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11
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Bam S, Buchanan E, Mahony C, O'Ryan C. DNA Methylation of PGC-1α Is Associated With Elevated mtDNA Copy Number and Altered Urinary Metabolites in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:696428. [PMID: 34381777 PMCID: PMC8352569 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.696428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex disorder that is underpinned by numerous dysregulated biological pathways, including pathways that affect mitochondrial function. Epigenetic mechanisms contribute to this dysregulation and DNA methylation is an important factor in the etiology of ASD. We measured DNA methylation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator-1 alpha (PGC-1α), as well as five genes involved in regulating mitochondrial homeostasis to examine mitochondrial dysfunction in an ASD cohort of South African children. Using targeted Next Generation bisulfite sequencing, we found differential methylation (p < 0.05) at six key genes converging on mitochondrial biogenesis, fission and fusion in ASD, namely PGC-1α, STOML2, MFN2, FIS1, OPA1, and GABPA. PGC-1α, the transcriptional regulator of biogenesis, was significantly hypermethylated at eight CpG sites in the gene promoter, one of which contained a putative binding site for CAMP response binding element 1 (CREB1) (p = 1 × 10–6). Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number, a marker of mitochondrial function, was elevated (p = 0.002) in ASD compared to controls and correlated significantly with DNA methylation at the PGC-1α promoter and there was a positive correlation between methylation at PGC-1α CpG#1 and mtDNA copy number (Spearman’s r = 0.2, n = 49, p = 0.04) in ASD. Furthermore, DNA methylation at PGC-1α CpG#1 and mtDNA copy number correlated significantly (p < 0.05) with levels of urinary organic acids associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and neuroendocrinology. Our data show differential methylation in ASD at six key genes converging on PGC-1α-dependent regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis and function. We demonstrate that methylation at the PGC-1α promoter is associated with elevated mtDNA copy number and metabolomic evidence of mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD. This highlights an unexplored role for DNA methylation in regulating specific pathways involved in mitochondrial biogenesis, fission and fusion contributing to mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Bam
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Erin Buchanan
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Caitlyn Mahony
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Colleen O'Ryan
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Citrigno L, Muglia M, Qualtieri A, Spadafora P, Cavalcanti F, Pioggia G, Cerasa A. The Mitochondrial Dysfunction Hypothesis in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Current Status and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165785. [PMID: 32806635 PMCID: PMC7461038 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) constitute a set of heterogeneous neurodevelopmental conditions, characterized by a wide genetic variability that has led to hypothesize a polygenic origin. The metabolic profiles of patients with ASD suggest a possible implication of mitochondrial pathways. Although different physiological and biochemical studies reported deficits in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation in subjects with ASD, the role of mitochondrial DNA variations has remained relatively unexplored. In this review, we report and discuss very recent evidence to demonstrate the key role of mitochondrial disorders in the development of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Citrigno
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, IRIB-CNR, 87050 Mangone CS, Italy; (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.Q.); (P.S.); (F.C.)
| | - Maria Muglia
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, IRIB-CNR, 87050 Mangone CS, Italy; (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.Q.); (P.S.); (F.C.)
| | - Antonio Qualtieri
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, IRIB-CNR, 87050 Mangone CS, Italy; (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.Q.); (P.S.); (F.C.)
| | - Patrizia Spadafora
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, IRIB-CNR, 87050 Mangone CS, Italy; (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.Q.); (P.S.); (F.C.)
| | - Francesca Cavalcanti
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, IRIB-CNR, 87050 Mangone CS, Italy; (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.Q.); (P.S.); (F.C.)
| | - Giovanni Pioggia
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, IRIB-CNR, 98164 Messina, Italy;
| | - Antonio Cerasa
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, IRIB-CNR, 87050 Mangone CS, Italy; (L.C.); (M.M.); (A.Q.); (P.S.); (F.C.)
- S’Anna Institute and Research in Advanced Neurorehabilitation (RAN), 88100 Crotone, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-333-9633511
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Di Liberto D, D’Anneo A, Carlisi D, Emanuele S, De Blasio A, Calvaruso G, Giuliano M, Lauricella M. Brain Opioid Activity and Oxidative Injury: Different Molecular Scenarios Connecting Celiac Disease and Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Brain Sci 2020; 10:E437. [PMID: 32659996 PMCID: PMC7407635 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10070437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Celiac Disease (CD) is an immune-mediated disease triggered by the ingestion of wheat gliadin and related prolamins from other cereals, such as barley and rye. Immunity against these cereal-derived proteins is mediated by pro-inflammatory cytokines produced by both innate and adaptive system response in individuals unable to adequately digest them. Peptides generated in this condition are absorbed across the gut barrier, which in these patients is characterized by the deregulation of its permeability. Here, we discuss a possible correlation between CD and Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) pathogenesis. ASD can be induced by an excessive and inappropriate brain opioid activity during the neonatal period. Cereal-derived peptides produced in celiac patients cross the blood-brain barrier and bind to endogenous opioid receptors interfering with neurotransmission and generating deleterious effects on brain maturation, learning and social relations. Moreover, an increase in oxidative stress and a decrease in the antioxidant capacity, as well as an extended mitochondrial impairment in the brain, could represent a possible connection between ASD and CD. Therefore, we critically discuss the proposed relationship between ASD and CD and the possible usefulness of a gluten-free diet in ASD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Di Liberto
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Antonella D’Anneo
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), Laboratory of Biochemistry, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.D.B.); (G.C.); (M.G.)
| | - Daniela Carlisi
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), Institute of Biochemistry, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (D.C.); (S.E.)
| | - Sonia Emanuele
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), Institute of Biochemistry, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (D.C.); (S.E.)
| | - Anna De Blasio
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), Laboratory of Biochemistry, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.D.B.); (G.C.); (M.G.)
| | - Giuseppe Calvaruso
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), Laboratory of Biochemistry, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.D.B.); (G.C.); (M.G.)
| | - Michela Giuliano
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), Laboratory of Biochemistry, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.D.B.); (G.C.); (M.G.)
| | - Marianna Lauricella
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BIND), Institute of Biochemistry, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (D.C.); (S.E.)
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14
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Singh K, Singh IN, Diggins E, Connors SL, Karim MA, Lee D, Zimmerman AW, Frye RE. Developmental regression and mitochondrial function in children with autism. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2020; 7:683-694. [PMID: 32343046 PMCID: PMC7261756 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Developmental regression (DR) occurs in about one-third of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) yet it is poorly understood. Current evidence suggests that mitochondrial function in not normal in many children with ASD. However, the relationship between mitochondrial function and DR has not been well-studied in ASD. METHODS This cross-sectional study of 32 children, 2 to 8 years old with ASD, with (n = 11) and without (n = 12) DR, and non-ASD controls (n = 9) compared mitochondrial respiration and mtDNA damage and copy number between groups and their relation to standardized measures of ASD severity. RESULTS Individuals with ASD demonstrated lower ND1, ND4, and CYTB copy number (Ps < 0.01) as compared to controls. Children with ASD and DR had higher maximal oxygen consumption rate (Ps < 0.02), maximal respiratory capacity (P < 0.05), and reserve capacity (P = 0.01) than those with ASD without DR. Coupling Efficiency and Maximal Respiratory Capacity were associated with disruptive behaviors but these relationships were different for those with and without DR. Higher ND1 copy number was associated with better behavior. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that individuals with ASD and DR may represent a unique metabolic endophenotype with distinct abnormalities in respiratory function that may put their mitochondria in a state of vulnerability. This may allow physiological stress to trigger mitochondrial decompensation as is seen clinically as DR. Since mitochondrial function was found to be related to ASD symptoms, the mitochondria could be a potential target for novel therapeutics. Additionally, identifying those with vulnerable mitochondrial before DR could result in prevention of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanwaljit Singh
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterMassachusettsUnited States
| | - Indrapal N. Singh
- Division of NeurologySection on Neurodevelopmental DisordersBarrow Neurologic Institute at Phoenix Children’s HospitalPhoenixArizonaUnited States
- Department of Child HealthUniversity of Arizona College of MedicinePhoenixArizonaUnited States
| | - Eileen Diggins
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterMassachusettsUnited States
| | - Susan L. Connors
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterMassachusettsUnited States
| | - Mohammad A. Karim
- Division of NeurologySection on Neurodevelopmental DisordersBarrow Neurologic Institute at Phoenix Children’s HospitalPhoenixArizonaUnited States
- Department of Child HealthUniversity of Arizona College of MedicinePhoenixArizonaUnited States
| | - David Lee
- Division of NeurologySection on Neurodevelopmental DisordersBarrow Neurologic Institute at Phoenix Children’s HospitalPhoenixArizonaUnited States
- Department of Child HealthUniversity of Arizona College of MedicinePhoenixArizonaUnited States
| | - Andrew W. Zimmerman
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterMassachusettsUnited States
| | - Richard E. Frye
- Division of NeurologySection on Neurodevelopmental DisordersBarrow Neurologic Institute at Phoenix Children’s HospitalPhoenixArizonaUnited States
- Department of Child HealthUniversity of Arizona College of MedicinePhoenixArizonaUnited States
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15
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Pecorelli A, Ferrara F, Messano N, Cordone V, Schiavone ML, Cervellati F, Woodby B, Cervellati C, Hayek J, Valacchi G. Alterations of mitochondrial bioenergetics, dynamics, and morphology support the theory of oxidative damage involvement in autism spectrum disorder. FASEB J 2020; 34:6521-6538. [PMID: 32246805 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201902677r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been hypothesized to be a result of the interplay between genetic predisposition and increased vulnerability to early environmental insults. Mitochondrial dysfunctions appear also involved in ASD pathophysiology, but the mechanisms by which such alterations develop are not completely understood. Here, we analyzed ASD primary fibroblasts by measuring mitochondrial bioenergetics, ultrastructural and dynamic parameters to investigate the hypothesis that defects in these pathways could be interconnected phenomena responsible or consequence for the redox imbalance observed in ASD. High levels of 4-hydroxynonenal protein adducts together with increased NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphateoxidase) activity and mitochondrial superoxide production coupled with a compromised antioxidant response guided by a defective Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 pathway confirmed an unbalanced redox homeostasis in ASD. Moreover, ASD fibroblasts showed overactive mitochondrial bioenergetics associated with atypical morphology and altered expression of mitochondrial electron transport chain complexes and dynamics-regulating factors. We suggest that many of the changes observed in mitochondria could represent compensatory mechanisms by which ASD cells try to adapt to altered energy demand, possibly resulting from a chronic oxinflammatory status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Pecorelli
- Department of Animal Science, Plants for Human Health Institute, NC Research Campus, NC State University, Kannapolis, NC, USA
| | - Francesca Ferrara
- Department of Animal Science, Plants for Human Health Institute, NC Research Campus, NC State University, Kannapolis, NC, USA.,Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Nicolò Messano
- Department of Animal Science, Plants for Human Health Institute, NC Research Campus, NC State University, Kannapolis, NC, USA
| | - Valeria Cordone
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Lucia Schiavone
- Department of Animal Science, Plants for Human Health Institute, NC Research Campus, NC State University, Kannapolis, NC, USA.,Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Franco Cervellati
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Brittany Woodby
- Department of Animal Science, Plants for Human Health Institute, NC Research Campus, NC State University, Kannapolis, NC, USA
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Joussef Hayek
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University General Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Valacchi
- Department of Animal Science, Plants for Human Health Institute, NC Research Campus, NC State University, Kannapolis, NC, USA.,Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
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