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Al-Beltagi M, Saeed NK, Bediwy AS, Bediwy EA, Elbeltagi R. Decoding the genetic landscape of autism: A comprehensive review. World J Clin Pediatr 2024; 13:98468. [DOI: 10.5409/wjcp.v13.i3.98468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by heterogeneous symptoms and genetic underpinnings. Recent advancements in genetic and epigenetic research have provided insights into the intricate mechanisms contributing to ASD, influencing both diagnosis and therapeutic strategies.
AIM To explore the genetic architecture of ASD, elucidate mechanistic insights into genetic mutations, and examine gene-environment interactions.
METHODS A comprehensive systematic review was conducted, integrating findings from studies on genetic variations, epigenetic mechanisms (such as DNA methylation and histone modifications), and emerging technologies [including Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)-Cas9 and single-cell RNA sequencing]. Relevant articles were identified through systematic searches of databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar.
RESULTS Genetic studies have identified numerous risk genes and mutations associated with ASD, yet many cases remain unexplained by known factors, suggesting undiscovered genetic components. Mechanistic insights into how these genetic mutations impact neural development and brain connectivity are still evolving. Epigenetic modifications, particularly DNA methylation and non-coding RNAs, also play significant roles in ASD pathogenesis. Emerging technologies like CRISPR-Cas9 and advanced bioinformatics are advancing our understanding by enabling precise genetic editing and analysis of complex genomic data.
CONCLUSION Continued research into the genetic and epigenetic underpinnings of ASD is crucial for developing personalized and effective treatments. Collaborative efforts integrating multidisciplinary expertise and international collaborations are essential to address the complexity of ASD and translate genetic discoveries into clinical practice. Addressing unresolved questions and ethical considerations surrounding genetic research will pave the way for improved diagnostic tools and targeted therapies, ultimately enhancing outcomes for individuals affected by ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Al-Beltagi
- Department of Pediatric, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Alghrabia, Tanta 31511, Egypt
- Department of Pediatric, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Manama 26671, Bahrain
| | - Nermin Kamal Saeed
- Medical Microbiology Section, Department of Pathology, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Bahrain, Manama 12, Bahrain
- Medical Microbiology Section, Department of Pathology, Irish Royal College of Surgeon, Muharraq, Busaiteen 15503, Bahrain
| | - Adel Salah Bediwy
- Department of Pulmonology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Alghrabia, Tanta 31527, Egypt
- Department of Pulmonology, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Manama 26671, Bahrain
| | - Eman A Bediwy
- Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Algharbia, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Reem Elbeltagi
- Department of Medicine, The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland-Bahrain, Muharraq, Busiateen 15503, Bahrain
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2
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Casey MR, Sall S, Parsons G, Raveendran K, Zaheri A. Misdiagnosis in an Autistic Adolescent. Cureus 2024; 16:e68129. [PMID: 39347360 PMCID: PMC11438490 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.68129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024] Open
Abstract
With the increase in autism diagnoses in recent years due to improved public and clinical awareness, the association between autism and mental health has emerged as an important issue for patients and their caregivers. Although many with autism spectrum disorder also have coexisting mental health conditions, there exist differences in the presentation and etiology of these symptoms. This case report explains an interaction with a 17-year-old adolescent autistic male with a history of mild depression who was found non-responsive in the shower at home. Although the emergency medical team interpreted the scene as an attempted suicide, after lengthy interviews with the patient and the patient's family, the psychiatry team revealed a pre-existing condition, subdural empyema, that caused him seizures. This case highlights how autism characteristics can mask other relevant clinical details and delay proper diagnosis and treatment, especially when patients are non-responsive or exhibiting atypical behavior. It also underscores the importance of investigating all relevant clinical diagnoses, including those not related to psychiatric conditions. It is vital that healthcare providers learn how to effectively communicate with autistic patients to ensure proper treatment and improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison R Casey
- Department of Psychiatry, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, USA
| | - Saveen Sall
- Department of Psychiatry, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, USA
| | - Gina Parsons
- Department of Psychiatry, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, USA
| | - Keerthiga Raveendran
- Department of Psychiatry, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, USA
| | - Alexa Zaheri
- Department of Psychiatry, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, USA
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3
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Varley AN, Browning KN. Gastrointestinal dysfunction in the valproic acid induced model of social deficit in rats. Auton Neurosci 2024; 253:103161. [PMID: 38461695 PMCID: PMC11128350 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2024.103161] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has increased in incidence over the past several decades, and is associated with a range of co-morbidities including gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunctions including gastroesophageal reflux, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and/or diarrhea. Several animal models have been used that replicate several aspects of ASD but no single model has been able to replicate the entire disease pathophysiology. In humans, prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) has been identified as a significant risk factor and rodent models have shown that in utero VPA exposure leads to behavioral deficits in offspring. The present study aimed to investigate whether in utero exposure to VPA induces GI dysfunction in rats. Timed pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with a single dose of VPA at embryonic day 12.5. Both male and female offspring subsequently underwent behavioral studies and assessment of GI function in adulthood. In utero VPA treatment induced social deficits in both male and female offspring, decreasing sociability and social novelty. Histological examination showed that VPA treated offspring had decreased thickness of GI muscle and mucosa, while immunohistochemical studies showed a decrease in myenteric neuron number in the fundus. Functional studies showed that both male and female VPA offspring had a delay in gastric emptying compared to vehicle treated offspring. Results of the current study suggest that the rat VPA model of behavioral deficits may be a convenient model by which both mechanistic and functional insights into GI dysfunction may be studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley N Varley
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States of America
| | - Kirsteen N Browning
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States of America.
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4
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Al-Sarraj Y, Taha RZ, Al-Dous E, Ahram D, Abbasi S, Abuazab E, Shaath H, Habbab W, Errafii K, Bejaoui Y, AlMotawa M, Khattab N, Aqel YA, Shalaby KE, Al-Ansari A, Kambouris M, Abouzohri A, Ghazal I, Tolfat M, Alshaban F, El-Shanti H, Albagha OME. The genetic landscape of autism spectrum disorder in the Middle Eastern population. Front Genet 2024; 15:1363849. [PMID: 38572415 PMCID: PMC10987745 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1363849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by aberrations in social interaction and communication associated with repetitive behaviors and interests, with strong clinical heterogeneity. Genetic factors play an important role in ASD, but about 75% of ASD cases have an undetermined genetic risk. Methods: We extensively investigated an ASD cohort made of 102 families from the Middle Eastern population of Qatar. First, we investigated the copy number variations (CNV) contribution using genome-wide SNP arrays. Next, we employed Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) to identify de novo or inherited variants contributing to the ASD etiology and its associated comorbid conditions in families with complete trios (affected child and the parents). Results: Our analysis revealed 16 CNV regions located in genomic regions implicated in ASD. The analysis of the 88 ASD cases identified 41 genes in 39 ASD subjects with de novo (n = 24) or inherited variants (n = 22). We identified three novel de novo variants in new candidate genes for ASD (DTX4, ARMC6, and B3GNT3). Also, we have identified 15 de novo variants in genes that were previously implicated in ASD or related neurodevelopmental disorders (PHF21A, WASF1, TCF20, DEAF1, MED13, CREBBP, KDM6B, SMURF1, ADNP, CACNA1G, MYT1L, KIF13B, GRIA2, CHM, and KCNK9). Additionally, we defined eight novel recessive variants (RYR2, DNAH3, TSPYL2, UPF3B KDM5C, LYST, and WNK3), four of which were X-linked. Conclusion: Despite the ASD multifactorial etiology that hinders ASD genetic risk discovery, the number of identified novel or known putative ASD genetic variants was appreciable. Nevertheless, this study represents the first comprehensive characterization of ASD genetic risk in Qatar's Middle Eastern population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasser Al-Sarraj
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
- Qatar Genome Program, Qatar Foundation Research, Development and Innovation, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Rowaida Z. Taha
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Eman Al-Dous
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Dina Ahram
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
- Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute, San Juan Capistrano, CA, United States
| | - Somayyeh Abbasi
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Eman Abuazab
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hibah Shaath
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Wesal Habbab
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Khaoula Errafii
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Yosra Bejaoui
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Maryam AlMotawa
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Namat Khattab
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Yasmin Abu Aqel
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Karim E. Shalaby
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Amina Al-Ansari
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Marios Kambouris
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
- Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Department, Genetics Division, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Adel Abouzohri
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Iman Ghazal
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohammed Tolfat
- The Shafallah Center for Children with Special Needs, Doha, Qatar
| | - Fouad Alshaban
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hatem El-Shanti
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Pediatrics, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Omar M. E. Albagha
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
- Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
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5
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Sharma AR, Batra G, Dhir N, Jain A, Modi T, Saini L, Thakur N, Mishra A, Singh RS, Singh A, Singla R, Prakash A, Goyal M, Bhatia A, Medhi B, Modi M. "Comparative evaluation of different chemical agents induced Autism Spectrum Disorder in experimental Wistar rats". Behav Brain Res 2024; 458:114728. [PMID: 37923221 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114728] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with uncertain etiology and pathophysiology. Several studies revealed that the commonly used animal models like Valproic Acid (VPA) and Propionic Acid (PPA) do not precisely represent the disease as the human patient does. The current study was conducted on different chemically (VPA, PPA, Poly I:C, Dioxin (2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD)) & Chlorpyrifos (CPF)) induced ASD-like animal models and validated the best suitable experimental animal model, which would closely resemble with clinical features of the ASD. This validated model might help to explore the pathophysiology of ASD. This study included rat pups prenatally exposed to VPA, PPA, Poly I:C, Dioxin & CPF within GD9 to GD15 doses. The model groups were validated through developmental and behavioral parameters, Gene Expressions, Oxidative Stress, and Pro-inflammatory and Anti-inflammatory cytokines levels. Developmental and neurobehavioral parameters showed significant changes in model groups compared to the control. In oxidative stress parameters and neuro-inflammatory cytokines levels, model groups exhibited high oxidative stress and neuro-inflammation compared to control groups. Gene expression profile of ASD-related genes showed significant downregulation in model groups compared to the control group. Moreover, the Poly I:C group showed more significant results than other model groups. The comparison of available ASD-like experimental animal models showed that the Poly I:C induced model represented the exact pathophysiology of ASD as the human patient does. Poly I:C was reported in the maternal immune system activation via the inflammatory cytokines pathway, altering embryonic development and causing ASD in neonates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Raj Sharma
- Department of Neurology, Post Graduate Institute Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Gitika Batra
- Department of Neurology, Post Graduate Institute Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Neha Dhir
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ashish Jain
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Tanish Modi
- Clinical Trainee, Department of Neurology, PGIMER, Chandigarh, India
| | - Lokesh Saini
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Paediatric Neurology, Jodhpur, India
| | - Neetika Thakur
- Department of Endocrinology, Post Graduate Institute Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Abhishek Mishra
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Department of Biomedical Sciences, USA
| | - Rahul Solomon Singh
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ashutosh Singh
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rubal Singla
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Department of Biomedical Sciences, USA
| | - Ajay Prakash
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Manoj Goyal
- Department of Neurology, Post Graduate Institute Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Alka Bhatia
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology, Post Graduate Institute Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Bikash Medhi
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Manish Modi
- Department of Neurology, Post Graduate Institute Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
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6
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El Yacoubi FA, Oukabli M, Ibrahimi A, Kisra H, Bensaid M. Unraveling the Role of Neuroligin3 in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Pathophysiological Insights and Targeted Therapies. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS DRUG TARGETS 2024; 23:801-811. [PMID: 37497709 DOI: 10.2174/1871527323666230727102244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social and communication skills, repetitive behaviors, and/or restricted interests with a prevalence of as high as 1% of children. Autism spectrum has strongly associated with genetic factors and exhibits wide clinical and heterogeneous genetic architecture. Most genes associated with Autism are involved in neuronal and synaptic development. The neuroligin3, the sex-linked gene on the X chromosome, was the first gene to be associated with a monogenic form of Autism. Neuroligin3 is a postsynaptic cell adhesion protein involved in synapse transmission, brain formation, and neuronal development. In this review, we provide recent findings on different mutations in the Neuroligin3 gene linked to Autism spectrum disorder and their molecular pathway effect. We also give the behavioral, and synaptic alterations reported in the Neuroligin3 animal model of Autism and the potential therapeutic strategies targeting the biological processes and the main symptoms of autism spectrum disorder. In addition, we discuss the use of novel technologies like induced pluripotent stem cells from Autistic patients that have the potential to differentiate in human neurons and therefore have a variety of applications in therapy and biomedical studies to search specific biomarkers, and develop systems for screening chemical molecules in human cells to discover target therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Azzahrae El Yacoubi
- Laboratory of Immunology, Infectious Disease and Tropical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences (UM6SS), Casablanca, Morocco
- Medical and Pharmacy School, University Mohammed V, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Oukabli
- Laboratory of Pathological Anatomy, Military Hospital Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Azeddine Ibrahimi
- Biotechnology Lab (MedBiotech), Rabat Medical and Pharmacy School, University Mohammed V, Rabat, Morocco
- Centre Mohammed VI for Research & Innovation (CM6), Rabat, Morocco
- Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences (UM6SS), Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Hassan Kisra
- Medical and Pharmacy School, University Mohammed V, Rabat, Morocco
- Center of Child Psychiatry, Arrazi Hospital, Salé, Morocco
| | - Mounia Bensaid
- Laboratory of Pathological Anatomy, Military Hospital Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco
- Royal School of Military Health Service. Rabat, Morocco
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7
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Yurdakul E, Barlas Y, Ulgen KO. Circadian clock crosstalks with autism. Brain Behav 2023; 13:e3273. [PMID: 37807632 PMCID: PMC10726833 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanism underlying autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remains incompletely understood, but researchers have identified over a thousand genes involved in complex interactions within the brain, nervous, and immune systems, particularly during the mechanism of brain development. Various contributory environmental effects including circadian rhythm have also been studied in ASD. Thus, capturing the global picture of the ASD-clock network in combined form is critical. METHODS We reconstructed the protein-protein interaction network of ASD and circadian rhythm to understand the connection between autism and the circadian clock. A graph theoretical study is undertaken to evaluate whether the network attributes are biologically realistic. The gene ontology enrichment analyses provide information about the most important biological processes. RESULTS This study takes a fresh look at metabolic mechanisms and the identification of potential key proteins/pathways (ribosome biogenesis, oxidative stress, insulin/IGF pathway, Wnt pathway, and mTOR pathway), as well as the effects of specific conditions (such as maternal stress or disruption of circadian rhythm) on the development of ASD due to environmental factors. CONCLUSION Understanding the relationship between circadian rhythm and ASD provides insight into the involvement of these essential pathways in the pathogenesis/etiology of ASD, as well as potential early intervention options and chronotherapeutic strategies for treating or preventing the neurodevelopmental disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekin Yurdakul
- Department of Chemical EngineeringBogazici University, Biosystems Engineering LaboratoryIstanbulTurkey
| | - Yaman Barlas
- Department of Industrial EngineeringBogazici University, Socio‐Economic System Dynamics Research Group (SESDYN)IstanbulTurkey
| | - Kutlu O. Ulgen
- Department of Chemical EngineeringBogazici University, Biosystems Engineering LaboratoryIstanbulTurkey
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8
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Lv S, He E, Luo J, Liu Y, Liang W, Xu S, Zhang K, Yang Y, Wang M, Song Y, Wu Y, Cai X. Using Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Derived Neurons on Microelectrode Arrays to Model Neurological Disease: A Review. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2301828. [PMID: 37863819 PMCID: PMC10667858 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202301828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
In situ physiological signals of in vitro neural disease models are essential for studying pathogenesis and drug screening. Currently, an increasing number of in vitro neural disease models are established using human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) derived neurons (hiPSC-DNs) to overcome interspecific gene expression differences. Microelectrode arrays (MEAs) can be readily interfaced with two-dimensional (2D), and more recently, three-dimensional (3D) neural stem cell-derived in vitro models of the human brain to monitor their physiological activity in real time. Therefore, MEAs are emerging and useful tools to model neurological disorders and disease in vitro using human iPSCs. This is enabling a real-time window into neuronal signaling at the network scale from patient derived. This paper provides a comprehensive review of MEA's role in analyzing neural disease models established by hiPSC-DNs. It covers the significance of MEA fabrication, surface structure and modification schemes for hiPSC-DNs culturing and signal detection. Additionally, this review discusses advances in the development and use of MEA technology to study in vitro neural disease models, including epilepsy, autism spectrum developmental disorder (ASD), and others established using hiPSC-DNs. The paper also highlights the application of MEAs combined with hiPSC-DNs in detecting in vitro neurotoxic substances. Finally, the future development and outlook of multifunctional and integrated devices for in vitro medical diagnostics and treatment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiya Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Enhui He
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
- The State Key Lab of Brain‐Machine IntelligenceZhejiang UniversityHangzhou321100China
| | - Jinping Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Yaoyao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Wei Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Shihong Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Kui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Yan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Mixia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Yilin Song
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Yirong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Xinxia Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
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9
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Kaminski VDL, Michita RT, Ellwanger JH, Veit TD, Schuch JB, Riesgo RDS, Roman T, Chies JAB. Exploring potential impacts of pregnancy-related maternal immune activation and extracellular vesicles on immune alterations observed in autism spectrum disorder. Heliyon 2023; 9:e15593. [PMID: 37305482 PMCID: PMC10256833 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a set of neurodevelopmental disorders usually observed in early life, with impacts on behavioral and social skills. Incidence of ASD has been dramatically increasing worldwide, possibly due to increase in awareness/diagnosis as well as to genetic and environmental triggers. Currently, it is estimated that ∼1% of the world population presents ASD symptoms. In addition to its genetic background, environmental and immune-related factors also influence the ASD etiology. In this context, maternal immune activation (MIA) has recently been suggested as a component potentially involved in ASD development. In addition, extracellular vesicles (EVs) are abundant at the maternal-fetal interface and are actively involved in the immunoregulation required for a healthy pregnancy. Considering that alterations in concentration and content of EVs have also been associated with ASD, this article raises a debate about the potential roles of EVs in the processes surrounding MIA. This represents the major differential of the present review compared to other ASD studies. To support the suggested correlations and hypotheses, findings regarding the roles of EVs during pregnancy and potential influences on ASD are discussed, along with a review and update concerning the participation of infections, cytokine unbalances, overweight and obesity, maternal anti-fetal brain antibodies, maternal fever, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, labor type and microbiota unbalances in MIA and ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valéria de Lima Kaminski
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia e Imunogenética, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Laboratório de Imunologia Aplicada, Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia - ICT, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rafael Tomoya Michita
- Laboratório de Genética Molecular Humana, Universidade Luterana do Brasil - ULBRA, Canoas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Joel Henrique Ellwanger
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia e Imunogenética, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Tiago Degani Veit
- Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Departmento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Jaqueline Bohrer Schuch
- Centro de Pesquisa em Álcool e Drogas, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do Comportamento, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Rudimar dos Santos Riesgo
- Child Neurology Unit, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Tatiana Roman
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - José Artur Bogo Chies
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia e Imunogenética, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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10
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Hu H, Long Y, Song G, Chen S, Xu Z, Li Q, Wu Z. Dysfunction of Prkcaa Links Social Behavior Defects with Disturbed Circadian Rhythm in Zebrafish. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043849. [PMID: 36835261 PMCID: PMC9961154 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein kinase Cα (PKCα/PRKCA) is a crucial regulator of circadian rhythm and is associated with human mental illnesses such as autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia. However, the roles of PRKCA in modulating animal social behavior and the underlying mechanisms remain to be explored. Here we report the generation and characterization of prkcaa-deficient zebrafish (Danio rerio). The results of behavioral tests indicate that a deficiency in Prkcaa led to anxiety-like behavior and impaired social preference in zebrafish. RNA-sequencing analyses revealed the significant effects of the prkcaa mutation on the expression of the morning-preferring circadian genes. The representatives are the immediate early genes, including egr2a, egr4, fosaa, fosab and npas4a. The downregulation of these genes at night was attenuated by Prkcaa dysfunction. Consistently, the mutants demonstrated reversed day-night locomotor rhythm, which are more active at night than in the morning. Our data show the roles of PRKCA in regulating animal social interactions and link the social behavior defects with a disturbed circadian rhythm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Hu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), College of Fisheries, Research Center of Fishery Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Yong Long
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- Correspondence: (Y.L.); (Z.W.); Tel.: +86-27-6878-0100 (Y.L.); +86-23-6836-6018 (Z.W.)
| | - Guili Song
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Shaoxiong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Zhicheng Xu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), College of Fisheries, Research Center of Fishery Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Qing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Zhengli Wu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), College of Fisheries, Research Center of Fishery Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Correspondence: (Y.L.); (Z.W.); Tel.: +86-27-6878-0100 (Y.L.); +86-23-6836-6018 (Z.W.)
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11
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Prasad T, Iyer S, Chatterjee S, Kumar M. In vivo models to study neurogenesis and associated neurodevelopmental disorders-Microcephaly and autism spectrum disorder. WIREs Mech Dis 2023:e1603. [PMID: 36754084 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1603] [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: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
The genesis and functioning of the central nervous system are one of the most intricate and intriguing aspects of embryogenesis. The big lacuna in the field of human CNS development is the lack of accessibility of the human brain for direct observation during embryonic and fetal development. Thus, it is imperative to establish alternative animal models to gain deep mechanistic insights into neurodevelopment, establishment of neural circuitry, and its function. Neurodevelopmental events such as neural specification, differentiation, and generation of neuronal and non-neuronal cell types have been comprehensively studied using a variety of animal models and in vitro model systems derived from human cells. The experimentations on animal models have revealed novel, mechanistic insights into neurogenesis, formation of neural networks, and function. The models, thus serve as indispensable tools to understand the molecular basis of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) arising from aberrations during embryonic development. Here, we review the spectrum of in vivo models such as fruitfly, zebrafish, frog, mice, and nonhuman primates to study neurogenesis and NDDs like microcephaly and Autism Spectrum Disorder. We also discuss nonconventional models such as ascidians and the recent technological advances in the field to study neurogenesis, disease mechanisms, and pathophysiology of human NDDs. This article is categorized under: Cancer > Stem Cells and Development Congenital Diseases > Stem Cells and Development Neurological Diseases > Stem Cells and Development Congenital Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuhina Prasad
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), Hyderabad, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Sharada Iyer
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), Hyderabad, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Sayoni Chatterjee
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), Hyderabad, India
| | - Megha Kumar
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), Hyderabad, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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12
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Dougnon G, Matsui H. Modelling Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Using Mice and Zebrafish. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147550. [PMID: 35886894 PMCID: PMC9319972 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are two debilitating neurodevelopmental disorders. The former is associated with social impairments whereas the latter is associated with inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. There is recent evidence that both disorders are somehow related and that genes may play a large role in these disorders. Despite mounting human and animal research, the neurological pathways underlying ASD and ADHD are still not well understood. Scientists investigate neurodevelopmental disorders by using animal models that have high similarities in genetics and behaviours with humans. Mice have been utilized in neuroscience research as an excellent animal model for a long time; however, the zebrafish has attracted much attention recently, with an increasingly large number of studies using this model. In this review, we first discuss ASD and ADHD aetiology from a general point of view to their characteristics and treatments. We also compare mice and zebrafish for their similarities and discuss their advantages and limitations in neuroscience. Finally, we summarize the most recent and existing research on zebrafish and mouse models of ASD and ADHD. We believe that this review will serve as a unique document providing interesting information to date about these models, thus facilitating research on ASD and ADHD.
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13
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Philippe A. Alternatives to Gold Standard Diagnostic Tools for Distinguishing "Natural Kinds" on the Autism Spectrum. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:862410. [PMID: 35747097 PMCID: PMC9210951 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.862410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Next-generation sequencing techniques have accelerated the discovery of rare mutations responsible for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in genes involved in a large number of physiological processes, including the control of gene expression, chromatin remodeling, signaling pathways, synaptic scaffolding, neurotransmitter receptors, and lipid metabolism. Genetic diagnosis provides subjects with an explanation of the cause of their disorder. However, it does not, or at least does not yet, shed light on the psychopathological phenomena specific to the individual. It could be hypothesized that each physiological impact of a mutation corresponds to a specific psychopathological phenomenon of ASD, i.e., "a psychopathological natural kind". We discuss here the difficulties identifying this specificity of underlying psychopathology in individuals with ASD due to a rare mutation with a major effect. A comparison of Newson's pathological demand avoidance and Wing's Asperger's syndrome with Asperger's autistic psychopathy highlights different ways of approaching psychopathological descriptions and diagnosis, by focusing on either common or unusual features. Such a comparison calls into question the principles of clinical research recommended by Falret for characterizing "disease individuality" of ASD due to a rare mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Philippe
- Developmental Brain Disorders Laboratory, INSERM UMR 1163, Imagine Institute, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
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14
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Lim HK, Yoon JH, Song M. Autism Spectrum Disorder Genes: Disease-Related Networks and Compensatory Strategies. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:922840. [PMID: 35726297 PMCID: PMC9206533 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.922840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian brain comprises structurally and functionally distinct regions. Each of these regions has characteristic molecular mechanisms that mediate higher-order tasks, such as memory, learning, emotion, impulse, and motor control. Many genes are involved in neuronal signaling and contribute to normal brain development. Dysfunction of essential components of neural signals leads to various types of brain disorders. Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social deficits, communication challenges, and compulsive repetitive behaviors. Long-term genetic studies have uncovered key genes associated with autism spectrum disorder, such as SH3 and multiple ankyrin repeat domains 3, methyl-CpG binding protein 2, neurexin 1, and chromodomain helicase DNA binding protein 8. In addition, disease-associated networks have been identified using animal models, and the understanding of the impact of these genes on disease susceptibility and compensation is deepening. In this review, we examine rescue strategies using key models of autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Kyung Lim
- Department of Life Sciences, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, South Korea
| | - Jong Hyuk Yoon
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Korea Brain Research Institute, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Minseok Song
- Department of Life Sciences, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, South Korea
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15
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Perdikaris P, Dermon CR. Behavioral and neurochemical profile of MK-801 adult zebrafish model: Forebrain β 2-adrenoceptors contribute to social withdrawal and anxiety-like behavior. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 115:110494. [PMID: 34896197 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Deficits in social communication and interaction are core clinical symptoms characterizing multiple neuropsychiatric conditions, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia. Interestingly, elevated anxiety levels are a common comorbid psychopathology characterizing individuals with aberrant social behavior. Despite recent progress, the underlying neurobiological mechanisms that link anxiety with social withdrawal remain poorly understood. The present study developed a zebrafish pharmacological model displaying social withdrawal behavior, following a 3-h exposure to 4 μΜ (+)-MK-801, a non-competitive N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, for 7 days. Interestingly, MK-801-treated zebrafish displayed elevated anxiety levels along with higher frequency of stereotypical behaviors, rendering this zebrafish model appropriate to unravel a possible link of catecholaminergic and ASD-like phenotypes. MK-801-treated zebrafish showed increased telencephalic protein expression of metabotropic glutamate 5 receptor (mGluR5), dopamine transporter (DAT) and β2-adrenergic receptors (β2-ARs), supporting the presence of excitation/inhibition imbalance along with altered dopaminergic and noradrenergic activity. Interestingly, β2-ARs expression, was differentially regulated across the Social Decision-Making (SDM) network nodes, exhibiting increased levels in ventral telencephalic area (Vv), a key-area integrating reward and social circuits but decreased expression in dorso-medial telencephalic area (Dm) and anterior tuberal nucleus (ATN). Moreover, the co-localization of β2-ARs with elements of GABAergic and glutamatergic systems, as well as with GAP-43, a protein indicating increased brain plasticity potential, support the key-role of β2-ARs in the MK-801 zebrafish social dysfunctions. Our results highlight the importance of the catecholaminergic neurotransmission in the manifestation of ASD-like behavior, representing a site of potential interventions for amelioration of ASD-like symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Perdikaris
- Human and Animal Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, University of Patras, Rio, 26500 Patras, Greece
| | - Catherine R Dermon
- Human and Animal Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, University of Patras, Rio, 26500 Patras, Greece.
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16
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Gill PS, Clothier JL, Veerapandiyan A, Dweep H, Porter-Gill PA, Schaefer GB. Molecular Dysregulation in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Pers Med 2021; 11:848. [PMID: 34575625 PMCID: PMC8466026 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11090848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) comprises a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental disorders with a strong heritable genetic component. At present, ASD is diagnosed solely by behavioral criteria. Advances in genomic analysis have contributed to numerous candidate genes for the risk of ASD, where rare mutations and s common variants contribute to its susceptibility. Moreover, studies show rare de novo variants, copy number variation and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) also impact neurodevelopment signaling. Exploration of rare and common variants involved in common dysregulated pathways can provide new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for ASD. Contributions of current innovative molecular strategies to understand etiology of ASD will be explored which are focused on whole exome sequencing (WES), whole genome sequencing (WGS), microRNA, long non-coding RNAs and CRISPR/Cas9 models. Some promising areas of pharmacogenomic and endophenotype directed therapies as novel personalized treatment and prevention will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pritmohinder S. Gill
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA;
- Arkansas Children’s Research Institute, 13 Children’s Way, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA;
| | - Jeffery L. Clothier
- Psychiatric Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA;
| | - Aravindhan Veerapandiyan
- Pediatric Neurology, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, 1 Children’s Way, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA;
| | - Harsh Dweep
- The Wistar Institute, 3601 Spruce St., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | | | - G. Bradley Schaefer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA;
- Genetics and Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA
- Arkansas Children’s Hospital NW, Springdale, AR 72762, USA
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17
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Reimunde P, Pensado-López A, Carreira Crende M, Lombao Iglesias V, Sánchez L, Torrecilla-Parra M, Ramírez CM, Anfray C, Torres Andón F. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Glioblastoma and Zebrafish Models for the Discovery of New Treatments. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:1087. [PMID: 33802571 PMCID: PMC7961726 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common of all brain malignant tumors; it displays a median survival of 14.6 months with current complete standard treatment. High heterogeneity, aggressive and invasive behavior, the impossibility of completing tumor resection, limitations for drug administration and therapeutic resistance to current treatments are the main problems presented by this pathology. In recent years, our knowledge of GBM physiopathology has advanced significantly, generating relevant information on the cellular heterogeneity of GBM tumors, including cancer and immune cells such as macrophages/microglia, genetic, epigenetic and metabolic alterations, comprising changes in miRNA expression. In this scenario, the zebrafish has arisen as a promising animal model to progress further due to its unique characteristics, such as transparency, ease of genetic manipulation, ethical and economic advantages and also conservation of the major brain regions and blood-brain-barrier (BBB) which are similar to a human structure. A few papers described in this review, using genetic and xenotransplantation zebrafish models have been used to study GBM as well as to test the anti-tumoral efficacy of new drugs, their ability to interact with target cells, modulate the tumor microenvironment, cross the BBB and/or their toxicity. Prospective studies following these lines of research may lead to a better diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of patients with GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Reimunde
- Department of Medicine, Campus de Oza, Universidade da Coruña, 15006 A Coruña, Spain
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Universitario Lucus Augusti, 27003 Lugo, Spain
| | - Alba Pensado-López
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Campus de Lugo, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (A.P.-L.); (M.C.C.); (V.L.I.); (L.S.)
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Martín Carreira Crende
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Campus de Lugo, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (A.P.-L.); (M.C.C.); (V.L.I.); (L.S.)
| | - Vanesa Lombao Iglesias
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Campus de Lugo, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (A.P.-L.); (M.C.C.); (V.L.I.); (L.S.)
| | - Laura Sánchez
- Department of Zoology, Genetics and Physical Anthropology, Campus de Lugo, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 27002 Lugo, Spain; (A.P.-L.); (M.C.C.); (V.L.I.); (L.S.)
| | - Marta Torrecilla-Parra
- IMDEA Research Institute of Food and Health Sciences, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (M.T.-P.); (C.M.R.)
| | - Cristina M. Ramírez
- IMDEA Research Institute of Food and Health Sciences, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (M.T.-P.); (C.M.R.)
| | - Clément Anfray
- IRCCS Istituto Clinico Humanitas, Via A. Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy;
| | - Fernando Torres Andón
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- IRCCS Istituto Clinico Humanitas, Via A. Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy;
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