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Manukjan N, Chau S, Caiment F, van Herwijnen M, Smeets HJ, Fulton D, Ahmed Z, Blankesteijn WM, Foulquier S. Wnt7a Decreases Brain Endothelial Barrier Function Via β-Catenin Activation. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:4854-4867. [PMID: 38147228 PMCID: PMC11236883 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03872-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier consists of tightly connected endothelial cells protecting the brain's microenvironment from the periphery. These endothelial cells are characterized by specific tight junction proteins such as Claudin-5 and Occludin, forming the endothelial barrier. Disrupting these cells might lead to blood-brain barrier dysfunction. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway can regulate the expression of these tight junction proteins and subsequent barrier permeability. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro effects of Wnt7a mediated β-catenin signaling on endothelial barrier integrity. Mouse brain endothelial cells, bEnd.3, were treated with recombinant Wnt7a protein or XAV939, a selective inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin mediated transcription to modulate the Wnt signaling pathway. The involvement of Wnt/HIF1α signaling was investigated by inhibiting Hif1α signaling with Hif1α siRNA. Wnt7a stimulation led to activation and nuclear translocation of β-catenin, which was inhibited by XAV939. Wnt7a stimulation decreased Claudin-5 expression mediated by β-catenin and decreased endothelial barrier formation. Wnt7a increased Hif1α and Vegfa expression mediated by β-catenin. However, Hif1α signaling pathway did not regulate tight junction proteins Claudin-5 and Occludin. Our data suggest that Wnt7a stimulation leads to a decrease in tight junction proteins mediated by the nuclear translocation of β-catenin, which hampers proper endothelial barrier formation. This process might be crucial in initiating endothelial cell proliferation and angiogenesis. Although HIF1α did not modulate the expression of tight junction proteins, it might play a role in brain angiogenesis and underlie pathogenic mechanisms in Wnt/HIF1α signaling in diseases such as cerebral small vessel disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narek Manukjan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Maastricht University, 50 Universiteitssingel, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
- CARIM-School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK
| | - Steven Chau
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Maastricht University, 50 Universiteitssingel, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
| | - Florian Caiment
- Department of Toxicogenomics, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel van Herwijnen
- Department of Toxicogenomics, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
| | - Hubert J Smeets
- Department of Toxicogenomics, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
- MHeNs-School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel Fulton
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK
| | - Zubair Ahmed
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK.
- Centre for Trauma Sciences Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - W Matthijs Blankesteijn
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Maastricht University, 50 Universiteitssingel, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
- CARIM-School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
| | - Sébastien Foulquier
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Maastricht University, 50 Universiteitssingel, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
- CARIM-School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
- MHeNs-School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, P.O. Box 5800, Maastricht, 6202 AZ, The Netherlands.
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2
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Sgroi S, Romeo E, Albanesi E, Piccardi F, Catalano F, Debellis D, Bertozzi F, Reggiani A. Combined in vivo effect of N-acylethanolamine-hydrolyzing acid amidase and glycogen synthase kinase-3β inhibition to treat multiple sclerosis. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116677. [PMID: 38701570 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116677] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The current pharmacological approaches to multiple sclerosis (MS) target its inflammatory and autoimmune components, but effective treatments to foster remyelination and axonal repair are still lacking. We therefore selected two targets known to be involved in MS pathogenesis: N-acylethanolamine-hydrolyzing acid amidase (NAAA) and glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β). We tested whether inhibiting these targets exerted a therapeutic effect against experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of MS. The combined inhibition of NAAA and GSK-3β by two selected small-molecule compounds, ARN16186 (an NAAA inhibitor) and AF3581 (a GSK-3β inhibitor), effectively mitigated disease progression, rescuing the animals from paralysis and preventing a worsening of the pathology. The complementary activity of the two inhibitors reduced the infiltration of immune cells into the spinal cord and led to the formation of thin myelin sheaths around the axons post-demyelination. Specifically, the inhibition of NAAA and GSK-3β modulated the over-activation of NF-kB and STAT3 transcription factors in the EAE-affected mice and induced the nuclear translocation of β-catenin, reducing the inflammatory insult and promoting the remyelination process. Overall, this work demonstrates that the dual-targeting of key aspects responsible for MS progression could be an innovative pharmacological approach to tackle the pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Sgroi
- D3-Validation, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa 16163, Italy
| | - Elisa Romeo
- Structural Biophysics Facility, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa 16163, Italy
| | - Ennio Albanesi
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Neurofacility, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa 16163, Italy
| | - Federica Piccardi
- Animal Facility, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa 16163, Italy
| | - Federico Catalano
- Electron Microscopy Facility, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa 16163, Italy
| | - Doriana Debellis
- Electron Microscopy Facility, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa 16163, Italy
| | - Fabio Bertozzi
- D3-PharmaChemistry, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa 16163, Italy
| | - Angelo Reggiani
- D3-Validation, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa 16163, Italy.
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3
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Jia R, Solé-Guardia G, Kiliaan AJ. Blood-brain barrier pathology in cerebral small vessel disease. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1233-1240. [PMID: 37905869 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.385864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Cerebral small vessel disease is a neurological disease that affects the brain microvasculature and which is commonly observed among the elderly. Although at first it was considered innocuous, small vessel disease is nowadays regarded as one of the major vascular causes of dementia. Radiological signs of small vessel disease include small subcortical infarcts, white matter magnetic resonance imaging hyperintensities, lacunes, enlarged perivascular spaces, cerebral microbleeds, and brain atrophy; however, great heterogeneity in clinical symptoms is observed in small vessel disease patients. The pathophysiology of these lesions has been linked to multiple processes, such as hypoperfusion, defective cerebrovascular reactivity, and blood-brain barrier dysfunction. Notably, studies on small vessel disease suggest that blood-brain barrier dysfunction is among the earliest mechanisms in small vessel disease and might contribute to the development of the hallmarks of small vessel disease. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to provide a new foundation in the study of small vessel disease pathology. First, we discuss the main structural domains and functions of the blood-brain barrier. Secondly, we review the most recent evidence on blood-brain barrier dysfunction linked to small vessel disease. Finally, we conclude with a discussion on future perspectives and propose potential treatment targets and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruxue Jia
- Department of Medical Imaging, Anatomy, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition & Behavior, Center for Medical Neuroscience, Preclinical Imaging Center PRIME, Radboud Alzheimer Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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4
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Afroz R, Goodwin JE. Wnt Signaling in Atherosclerosis: Mechanisms to Therapeutic Implications. Biomedicines 2024; 12:276. [PMID: 38397878 PMCID: PMC10886882 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12020276] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a vascular disease in which inflammation plays a pivotal role. Receptor-mediated signaling pathways regulate vascular inflammation and the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. Emerging evidence has revealed the role of the Wnt pathway in atherosclerosis progression. The Wnt pathway influences almost all stages of atherosclerosis progression, including endothelial dysfunction, monocyte infiltration, smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration, and plaque formation. Targeting the Wnt pathway to treat atherosclerosis represents a promising therapeutic approach that remains understudied. Blocking Wnt signaling utilizing small molecule inhibitors, recombinant proteins, and/or neutralizing antibodies ameliorates atherosclerosis in preclinical models. The Wnt pathway can be potentially manipulated through targeting Wnt ligands, receptors, co-receptors, and downstream signaling molecules. However, there are challenges associated with developing a real world therapeutic compound that targets the Wnt pathway. This review focuses on the role of Wnt signaling in atherosclerosis development, and the rationale for targeting this pathway for the treatment of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rizwana Afroz
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA;
- Vascular Biology and Therapeutics Program, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Julie E. Goodwin
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA;
- Vascular Biology and Therapeutics Program, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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5
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Mensah IK, Emerson ML, Tan HJ, Gowher H. Cardiomyocyte Differentiation from Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells by WNT Switch Method. Cells 2024; 13:132. [PMID: 38247824 PMCID: PMC10814988 DOI: 10.3390/cells13020132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The differentiation of ESCs into cardiomyocytes in vitro is an excellent and reliable model system for studying normal cardiomyocyte development in mammals, modeling cardiac diseases, and for use in drug screening. Mouse ESC differentiation still provides relevant biological information about cardiac development. However, the current methods for efficiently differentiating ESCs into cardiomyocytes are limiting. Here, we describe the "WNT Switch" method to efficiently commit mouse ESCs into cardiomyocytes using the small molecule WNT signaling modulators CHIR99021 and XAV939 in vitro. This method significantly improves the yield of beating cardiomyocytes, reduces number of treatments, and is less laborious.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Humaira Gowher
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; (I.K.M.); (H.J.T.)
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6
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Ma D, Zhang H, Yin L, Xu H, Wu L, Shaji R, Rezai F, Mulla A, Kaur S, Tan S, Kysela B, Wang Y, Chen Z, Zhao C, Gu Y. Human iPSC-derived endothelial cells promote CNS remyelination via BDNF and mTORC1 pathway. Glia 2024; 72:133-155. [PMID: 37675625 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24466] [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: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Damage of myelin is a component of many diseases in the central nervous system (CNS). The activation and maturation of the quiescent oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) are the crucial cellular processes for CNS remyelination, which is influenced by neuroinflammation in the lesion microenvironment. Endothelial cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC-ECs) have shown promise in restoring function in various preclinical animal models. Here we ask whether and whether transplantation of hiPSC-ECs could benefit remyelination in a mouse model of CNS demyelination. Our results show that in vitro, hiPSC-ECs increase OPC proliferation, migration and differentiation via secreted soluble factors including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). hiPSC-ECs also promote the survival of oligodendrocyte lineage cells in vitro and in vivo. Transplantation of hiPSC-ECs into a toxin-induced demyelination lesion in mouse corpus callosum (CC) leads to increased density of oligodendrocyte lineage cells and level of myelin in demyelinated area, correlated with a decreased neuroinflammation and an increased proportion of pro-regenerative M2 phenotype in microglia/macrophages. The hiPSC-EC-exposed oligodendrocyte lineage cells showed significant increase in the level of phosphorylated S6 ribosomal protein (pS6) both in vitro and in vivo, indicating an involvement of mTORC1 pathway. These results suggest that hiPSC-ECs may benefit myelin protection and regeneration which providing a potential source of cell therapy for a wide range of diseases and injuries associated with myelin damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Ma
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute and Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Translational Medicine Research Group (TMRG), Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Huiyuan Zhang
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute and Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
- ALLIFE Medical Science and Technology Co. Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Le Yin
- Translational Medicine Research Group (TMRG), Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
- Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
- ALLIFE Medical Science and Technology Co. Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute and Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
- ALLIFE Medical Science and Technology Co. Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Lida Wu
- Translational Medicine Research Group (TMRG), Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
- Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
- ALLIFE Medical Science and Technology Co. Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Rahul Shaji
- Translational Medicine Research Group (TMRG), Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Fatema Rezai
- Translational Medicine Research Group (TMRG), Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ayesha Mulla
- Translational Medicine Research Group (TMRG), Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sukhteerath Kaur
- Translational Medicine Research Group (TMRG), Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Shengjiang Tan
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute and Department of Haematology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Boris Kysela
- Translational Medicine Research Group (TMRG), Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Yilong Wang
- Department of Neurology, Tiantan Hospital Capital Medical University, National Center and National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiguo Chen
- Cell Therapy Center, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, and Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Zhao
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute and Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Yuchun Gu
- Translational Medicine Research Group (TMRG), Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
- Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
- ALLIFE Medical Science and Technology Co. Ltd, Beijing, China
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7
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Manu DR, Slevin M, Barcutean L, Forro T, Boghitoiu T, Balasa R. Astrocyte Involvement in Blood-Brain Barrier Function: A Critical Update Highlighting Novel, Complex, Neurovascular Interactions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17146. [PMID: 38138976 PMCID: PMC10743219 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders have been linked to a defective blood-brain barrier (BBB), with dysfunctions triggered by stage-specific disease mechanisms, some of these being generated through interactions in the neurovascular unit (NVU). Advanced knowledge of molecular and signaling mechanisms in the NVU and the emergence of improved experimental models allow BBB permeability prediction and the development of new brain-targeted therapies. As NVU constituents, astrocytes are the most numerous glial cells, characterized by a heterogeneity that occurs as a result of developmental and context-based gene expression profiles and the differential expression of non-coding ribonucleic acids (RNAs). Due to their heterogeneity and dynamic responses to different signals, astrocytes may have a beneficial or detrimental role in the BBB's barrier function, with deep effects on the pathophysiology of (and on the progression of) central nervous system diseases. The implication of astrocytic-derived extracellular vesicles in pathological mechanisms, due to their ability to pass the BBB, must also be considered. The molecular mechanisms of astrocytes' interaction with endothelial cells at the BBB level are considered promising therapeutic targets in different neurological conditions. Nevertheless, a personalized and well-founded approach must be addressed, due to the temporal and spatial heterogeneity of reactive astrogliosis states during disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doina Ramona Manu
- Centre for Advanced Medical and Pharmaceutical Research, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania; (D.R.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Mark Slevin
- Centre for Advanced Medical and Pharmaceutical Research, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania; (D.R.M.); (M.S.)
- Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester M15 6BH, UK
| | - Laura Barcutean
- Neurology 1 Clinic, County Emergency Clinical Hospital, 540136 Targu Mures, Romania;
- Department of Neurology, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Timea Forro
- Doctoral School, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania;
| | - Tudor Boghitoiu
- Psychiatry II Clinic, County Clinical Hospital, 540072 Targu Mures, Romania;
| | - Rodica Balasa
- Neurology 1 Clinic, County Emergency Clinical Hospital, 540136 Targu Mures, Romania;
- Department of Neurology, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
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8
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Hu X, Geng P, Zhao X, Wang Q, Liu C, Guo C, Dong W, Jin X. The NG2-glia is a potential target to maintain the integrity of neurovascular unit after acute ischemic stroke. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 180:106076. [PMID: 36921779 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The neurovascular unit (NVU) plays a critical role in health and disease. In the current review, we discuss the critical role of a class of neural/glial antigen 2 (NG2)-expressing glial cells (NG2-glia) in regulating NVU after acute ischemic stroke (AIS). We first introduce the role of NG2-glia in the formation of NVU during development as well as aging-induced damage to NVU and accompanying NG2-glia change. We then discuss the reciprocal interactions between NG2-glia and the other component cells of NVU, emphasizing the factors that could influence NG2-glia. Damage to the NVU integrity is the pathological basis of edema and hemorrhagic transformation, the most dreaded complication after AIS. The role of NG2-glia in AIS-induced NVU damage and the effect of NG2-glia transplantation on AIS-induced NVU damage are summarized. We next discuss the role of NG2-glia and the effect of NG2-glia transplantation in oligodendrogenesis and white matter repair as well as angiogenesis which is associated with the outcome of the patients after AIS. Finally, we review the current strategies to promote NG2-glia proliferation and differentiation and propose to use the dental pulp stem cells (DPSC)-derived exosome as a promising strategy to reduce AIS-induced injury and promote repair through maintaining the integrity of NVU by regulating endogenous NG2-glia proliferation and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Hu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Panpan Geng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Xiaoyun Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Changqing Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chun Guo
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield, UK
| | - Wen Dong
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Xinchun Jin
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China; Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215004, China.
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9
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He Y, Li Z, Shi X, Ding J, Wang X. Roles of NG2 Glia in Cerebral Small Vessel Disease. Neurosci Bull 2023; 39:519-530. [PMID: 36401147 PMCID: PMC10043141 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-022-00976-w] [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: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is one of the most prevalent pathologic processes affecting 5% of people over 50 years of age and contributing to 45% of dementia cases. Increasing evidence has demonstrated the pathological roles of chronic hypoperfusion, impaired cerebral vascular reactivity, and leakage of the blood-brain barrier in CSVD. However, the pathogenesis of CSVD remains elusive thus far, and no radical treatment has been developed. NG2 glia, also known as oligodendrocyte precursor cells, are the fourth type of glial cell in addition to astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocytes in the mammalian central nervous system. Many novel functions for NG2 glia in physiological and pathological states have recently been revealed. In this review, we discuss the role of NG2 glia in CSVD and the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixi He
- Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zhenghao Li
- Institute of Neuroscience, MOE Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, NMU, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Xiaoyu Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jing Ding
- Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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10
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Bhatia K, Kindelin A, Nadeem M, Khan MB, Yin J, Fuentes A, Miller K, Turner GH, Preul MC, Ahmad AS, Mufson EJ, Waters MF, Ahmad S, Ducruet AF. Complement C3a Receptor (C3aR) Mediates Vascular Dysfunction, Hippocampal Pathology, and Cognitive Impairment in a Mouse Model of VCID. Transl Stroke Res 2022; 13:816-829. [PMID: 35258803 DOI: 10.1007/s12975-022-00993-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID) secondary to chronic mild-moderate cerebral ischemia underlie a significant percentage of cases of dementia. We previously reported that either genetic deficiency of the complement C3a receptor (C3aR) or its pharmacological inhibition protects against cerebral ischemia in rodents, while others have implicated C3aR in the pathogenesis seen in rodent transgenic models of Alzheimer's disease. In the present study, we evaluated the role of complement C3a-C3aR signaling in the onset and progression of VCID. We utilized the bilateral common carotid artery stenosis (BCAS) model to induce VCID in male C57BL/6 wild-type and C3aR-knockout (C3aR-/-) mice. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) changes, hippocampal atrophy (HA), white matter degeneration (WMD), and ventricular size were assessed at 4 months post-BCAS using laser speckle contrast analysis (LSCI) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Cognitive function was evaluated using the Morris water maze (MWM), and novel object recognition (NOR), immunostaining, and western blot were performed to assess the effect of genetic C3aR deletion on post-VCID outcomes. BCAS resulted in decreased CBF and increased HA, WMD, and neurovascular inflammation in WT (C57BL/6) compared to C3aR-/- (C3aR-KO) mice. Moreover, C3aR-/- mice exhibited improved cognitive function on NOR and MWM relative to WT controls. We conclude that over-activation of the C3a/C3aR axis exacerbates neurovascular inflammation leading to poor VCID outcomes which are mitigated by C3aR deletion. Future studies are warranted to dissect the role of cell-specific C3aR in VCID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanchan Bhatia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
- School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Adam Kindelin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Muhammad Nadeem
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | | | - Junxiang Yin
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
- Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Alberto Fuentes
- Barrow Neurological Institute/Arizona State University Center for Preclinical Imaging, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Karis Miller
- Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Gregory H Turner
- Barrow Neurological Institute/Arizona State University Center for Preclinical Imaging, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Mark C Preul
- Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Abdullah S Ahmad
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
- Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Elliott J Mufson
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Michael F Waters
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
- Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Saif Ahmad
- Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA.
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA.
| | - Andrew F Ducruet
- Departments of Neurosurgery & Translational Neuroscience, Barrow Neurological Institute, SJHMC, Dignity Health, Phoenix, AZ, 85086, USA.
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11
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Role of pericytes in blood-brain barrier preservation during ischemia through tunneling nanotubes. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:582. [PMID: 35790716 PMCID: PMC9256725 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05025-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Crosstalk mechanisms between pericytes, endothelial cells, and astrocytes preserve integrity and function of the blood-brain-barrier (BBB) under physiological conditions. Long intercellular channels allowing the transfer of small molecules and organelles between distant cells called tunneling nanotubes (TNT) represent a potential substrate for energy and matter exchanges between the tripartite cellular compartments of the BBB. However, the role of TNT across BBB cells under physiological conditions and in the course of BBB dysfunction is unknown. In this work, we analyzed the TNT's role in the functional dialog between human brain endothelial cells, and brain pericytes co-cultured with human astrocytes under normal conditions or after exposure to ischemia/reperfusion, a condition in which BBB breakdown occurs, and pericytes participate in the BBB repair. Using live time-lapse fluorescence microscopy and laser-scanning confocal microscopy, we found that astrocytes form long TNT with pericytes and endothelial cells and receive functional mitochondria from both cell types through this mechanism. The mitochondrial transfer also occurred in multicellular assembloids of human BBB that reproduce the three-dimensional architecture of the BBB. Under conditions of ischemia/reperfusion, TNT formation is upregulated, and astrocytes exposed to oxygen-glucose deprivation were rescued from apoptosis by healthy pericytes through TNT-mediated transfer of functional mitochondria, an effect that was virtually abolished in the presence of TNT-destroying drugs. The results establish a functional role of TNT in the crosstalk between BBB cells and demonstrate that TNT-mediated mitochondrial transfer from pericytes rescues astrocytes from ischemia/reperfusion-induced apoptosis. Our data confirm that the pericytes might play a pivotal role in preserving the structural and functional integrity of BBB under physiological conditions and participate in BBB repair in brain diseases.
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12
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Wang L, Liu L, Zhao Y, Gao D, Yang Y, Chu M, Teng J. Analysis of Factors Associated with Hemorrhagic Transformation in Acute Cerebellar Infarction. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2022; 31:106538. [PMID: 35523054 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2022.106538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Hemorrhagic transformation (HT) is a frequent and severe complication of ischemic stroke. This study aimed to evaluate the factors associated with the occurrence of HT in patients with acute cerebellar infarction. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 190 patients, 141 male (74.2%) and 49 female (25.8%) with mean age 61.84 ± 12.16 years, who were admitted within 72 h of acute cerebellar infarction onset from January 2017 to March 2021 were retrospectively recruited. The multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the independent influent factors for HT and receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve was applied to calculate the predictive value of those factors for HT in patients with acute cerebellar infarction. RESULTS 37 out of 190 recruited patients (19.47%) had HT within 14 days after acute cerebellar infarction onset. The incidence rates of HT occurring within 3 days, 3-7 days and 7-14 days were 13.5%, 40.5% and 45.9%, respectively. Results of the multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that atrial fibrillation (AF) (OR 6.196, 95% CI 1.357-28.302, P = 0.019), infarct diameter (OR 5.813, 95% CI 2.932-11.526, P < 0.001), white matter hyperintensity (WMH) (OR 2.44, 95% CI 1.134-5.252, P = 0.023) were independent risk factors for HT in acute cerebellar infarction, while lymphocyte count (OR 0.319, 95% CI 0.142-0.716, P = 0.006) showed an independently protective effect. CONCLUSIONS Infarct diameter, AF and WMH are independent risk factors for HT in patients with acute cerebellar infarction, while the lymphocyte count is a protective factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanjing Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Lijun Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Yanhong Zhao
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Di Gao
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Yanhong Yang
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Min Chu
- Department of Neurology, Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jijun Teng
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China.
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13
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Cerebral small vessel disease alters neurovascular unit regulation of microcirculation integrity involved in vascular cognitive impairment. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 170:105750. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
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14
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Sadri F, Rezaei Z, Fereidouni M. The significance of the SDF-1/CXCR4 signaling pathway in the normal development. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:3307-3320. [PMID: 35067815 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-07069-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Chemokines are chemoattractants that can regulate cell movement and adhesion. SDF-1 [stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1)] is a homeostatic CXC chemokine. SDF-1 and its receptors [CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4)] form a signaling pathway that plays critical roles in different pathological and physiological mechanisms, including embryogenesis, wound healing, angiogenesis, tumor growth, and proliferation. Therefore, the current review aimed to summarize the related studies that addressed the molecular signature of the SDF-1/CXCR4 pathway and to explain how this axis is involved in normal events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzad Sadri
- Student Research Committee, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Zohreh Rezaei
- Department of Biology, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Mohammad Fereidouni
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran. .,Department of Medical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran.
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15
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OUP accepted manuscript. Brain 2022; 145:3179-3186. [DOI: 10.1093/brain/awac107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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16
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Maes M, Kubera M, Kotańska M. Aberrations in the Cross-Talks Among Redox, Nuclear Factor-κB, and Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway Signaling Underpin Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:822382. [PMID: 35599774 PMCID: PMC9120845 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.822382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
There is evidence that chronic fatigue spectrum disorders (CFAS-Ds), including myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), and chronic fatigue with physiosomatic symptoms including when due to comorbid medical disease, are characterized by neuroimmune and neuro-oxidative biomarkers. This study was performed to delineate the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of CFAS-D and to discover the pathways, molecular patterns, and domains enriched in their PPI network. We performed network, enrichment, and annotation analyses using differentially expressed proteins and metabolics, which were established in patients with CFAS-D. The PPI network analysis revealed that the backbone of the highly connective CFAS-D network comprises NFKB1, CTNNB1, ALB, peroxides, NOS2, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) and that the network comprises interconnected immune-oxidative-nitrosative and Wnt/β-catenin subnetworks. Multiomics enrichment analysis shows that the CFAS-D network is highly significantly associated with cellular (antioxidant) detoxification, hydrogen peroxide metabolic process, peroxidase and oxidoreductase activity, interleukin-10 (IL-10) anti-inflammatory signaling and neurodegenerative canonical Wnt, the β-catenin complex, cadherin domains, cell-cell junctions and TLR2/4 pathways, and the transcription factors nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and RELA. The top 10 DOID annotations of the CFAS-D network include four intestinal, three immune system disorders, cancer, and infectious disease. The custom Gene Ontology (GO) term annotation analysis revealed that the CFAS-D network is associated with a response to a toxic substance, lipopolysaccharides, bacterium, or virus. In conclusion, CFAS-D may be triggered by a variety of stimuli and their effects are mediated by aberrations in the cross-talks between redox, NF-κB, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways leading to dysfunctions in multicellular organismal homeostatic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Maes
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.,IMPACT Strategic Research Center, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Marta Kubera
- Laboratory of Immunoendocrinology, Department of Experimental Neuroendocrinology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kotańska
- Department of Pharmacological Screening, Medical College, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
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17
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Keep RF, Jones HC, Drewes LR. Brain Barriers and brain fluids research in 2020 and the fluids and barriers of the CNS thematic series on advances in in vitro modeling of the blood-brain barrier and neurovascular unit. Fluids Barriers CNS 2021; 18:24. [PMID: 34020685 PMCID: PMC8138848 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-021-00258-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This editorial discusses advances in brain barrier and brain fluid research in 2020. Topics include: the cerebral endothelium and the neurovascular unit; the choroid plexus; the meninges; cerebrospinal fluid and the glymphatic system; disease states impacting the brain barriers and brain fluids; drug delivery to the brain. This editorial also highlights the recently completed Fluids Barriers CNS thematic series entitled, Advances in in vitro modeling of the bloodbrain barrier and neurovascular unit. Such in vitro modeling is progressing rapidly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard F Keep
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48105, USA. .,Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, 109 Zina Pitcher Place, Ann Arbor, R5018 BSRB, MI, 48109-2200, USA.
| | - Hazel C Jones
- Gagle Brook House, Chesterton, Bicester, OX26 1UF, UK
| | - Lester R Drewes
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School Duluth, Duluth, MN, 55812, USA
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