1
|
Reyes-Lizaola S, Luna-Zarate U, Tendilla-Beltrán H, Morales-Medina JC, Flores G. Structural and biochemical alterations in dendritic spines as key mechanisms for severe mental illnesses. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 129:110876. [PMID: 37863171 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2023.110876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Severe mental illnesses (SMI) collectively affect approximately 20% of the global population, as estimated by the World Health Organization (WHO). Despite having diverse etiologies, clinical symptoms, and pharmacotherapies, these diseases share a common pathophysiological characteristic: the misconnection of brain areas involved in reality perception, executive control, and cognition, including the corticolimbic system. Dendritic spines play a crucial role in excitatory neurotransmission within the central nervous system. These small structures exhibit remarkable plasticity, regulated by factors such as neurotransmitter tone, neurotrophic factors, and innate immunity-related molecules, and other mechanisms - all of which are associated with the pathophysiology of SMI. However, studying dendritic spine mechanisms in both healthy and pathological conditions in patients is fraught with technical limitations. This is where animal models related to these diseases become indispensable. They have played a pivotal role in elucidating the significance of dendritic spines in SMI. In this review, the information regarding the potential role of dendritic spines in SMI was summarized, drawing from clinical and animal model reports. Also, the implications of targeting dendritic spine-related molecules for SMI treatment were explored. Specifically, our focus is on major depressive disorder and the neurodevelopmental disorders schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder. Abundant clinical and basic research has studied the functional and structural plasticity of dendritic spines in these diseases, along with potential pharmacological targets that modulate the dynamics of these structures. These targets may be associated with the clinical efficacy of the pharmacotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Reyes-Lizaola
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Licenciatura en Medicina, Universidad Popular del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla, Mexico
| | - Ulises Luna-Zarate
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Licenciatura en Medicina, Universidad de las Américas Puebla (UDLAP), Puebla, Mexico
| | - Hiram Tendilla-Beltrán
- Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, Mexico
| | - Julio César Morales-Medina
- Centro de Investigación en Reproducción Animal, CINVESTAV-Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala, Tlaxcala, Mexico
| | - Gonzalo Flores
- Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Pedini G, Chen CL, Achsel T, Bagni C. Cancer drug repurposing in autism spectrum disorder. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:963-977. [PMID: 37940430 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.09.008] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with uncertain origins. Understanding of the mechanisms underlying ASD remains limited, and treatments are lacking. Genetic diversity complicates drug development. Given the complexity and severity of ASD symptoms and the rising number of diagnoses, exploring novel therapeutic strategies is essential. Here, we focus on shared molecular pathways between ASD and cancer and highlight recent progress on the repurposing of cancer drugs for ASD treatment, such as mTOR inhibitors, histone deacetylase inhibitors, and anti-inflammatory agents. We discuss how to improve trial design considering drug dose and patient age. Lastly, the discussion explores the critical aspects of side effects, commercial factors, and the efficiency of drug-screening pipelines; all of which are essential considerations in the pursuit of repurposing cancer drugs for addressing core features of ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Pedini
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Chin-Lin Chen
- University of Lausanne, Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, Rue du Bugnon 9, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tilmann Achsel
- University of Lausanne, Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, Rue du Bugnon 9, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Claudia Bagni
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy; University of Lausanne, Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, Rue du Bugnon 9, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Nair D, Diaz-Rosado A, Varella-Branco E, Ramos I, Black A, Angireddy R, Park J, Murali S, Yoon A, Ciesielski B, O’Brien WT, Passos-Bueno MR, Bhoj E. Heterozygous variants in TBCK cause a mild neurologic syndrome in humans and mice. Am J Med Genet A 2023; 191:2508-2517. [PMID: 37353954 PMCID: PMC10524953 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.63320] [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: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
TBCK-related encephalopathy is a rare pediatric neurodegenerative disorder caused by biallelic loss-of-function variants in the TBCK gene. After receiving anecdotal reports of neurologic phenotypes in both human and mouse TBCK heterozygotes, we quantified if TBCK haploinsufficiency causes a phenotype in mice and humans. Using the tbck+/- mouse model, we performed a battery of behavioral assays and mTOR pathway analysis to investigate potential alterations in neurophysiology. We conducted as well a phenome-wide association study (PheWAS) analysis in a large adult biobank to determine the presence of potential phenotypes associated to this variant. The tbck+/- mouse model demonstrates a reduction of exploratory behavior in animals with significant sex and genotype interactions. The concurrent PheWAS analysis of 10,900 unrelated individuals showed that patients with one copy of a TBCK loss-of-function allele had a significantly higher rate of acquired toe and foot deformities, likely indicative of a mild peripheral neuropathy phenotype. This study presents an example of what may be the underappreciated occurrence of mild neurogenic symptoms in heterozygote individuals of recessive neurogenetic syndromes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Divya Nair
- Department of Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104 USA
| | - Abdias Diaz-Rosado
- Department of Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104 USA
- Department of Physiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Elisa Varella-Branco
- Centro de Estudos do Genoma Humano e Células-Tronco, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Igor Ramos
- Centro de Estudos do Genoma Humano e Células-Tronco, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Aaron Black
- Department of Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104 USA
| | - Rajesh Angireddy
- Department of Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104 USA
| | - Joseph Park
- Department of Physiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Svathi Murali
- Department of Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104 USA
- Department of Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Andrew Yoon
- Department of Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104 USA
| | - Brianna Ciesielski
- ITMAT, University of Pennsylvania, School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19104 USA
| | - W. Timothy O’Brien
- ITMAT, University of Pennsylvania, School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19104 USA
| | | | - Elizabeth Bhoj
- Department of Genetics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104 USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Alapin JM, Mohamed MS, Shrestha P, Khaled HG, Vorabyeva AG, Bowling HL, Oliveira MM, Klann E. Opto4E-BP, an optogenetic tool for inducible, reversible, and cell type-specific inhibition of translation initiation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.30.554643. [PMID: 37693507 PMCID: PMC10491233 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.30.554643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
The protein kinase mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) is one of the primary triggers for initiating cap-dependent translation. Amongst its functions, mTORC1 phosphorylates eIF4E-binding proteins (4E-BPs), which prevents them from binding to eIF4E and thereby enables translation initiation. mTORC1 signaling is required for multiple forms of protein synthesis-dependent synaptic plasticity and various forms of long-term memory (LTM), including associative threat memory. However, the approaches used thus far to target mTORC1 and its effectors, such as pharmacological inhibitors or genetic knockouts, lack fine spatial and temporal control. The development of a conditional and inducible eIF4E knockdown mouse line partially solved the issue of spatial control, but still lacked optimal temporal control to study memory consolidation. Here, we have designed a novel optogenetic tool (Opto4E-BP) for cell type-specific, light-dependent regulation of eIF4E in the brain. We show that light-activation of Opto4E-BP decreases protein synthesis in HEK cells and primary mouse neurons. In situ , light-activation of Opto4E-BP in excitatory neurons decreased protein synthesis in acute amygdala slices. Finally, light activation of Opto4E-BP in principal excitatory neurons in the lateral amygdala (LA) of mice after training blocked the consolidation of LTM. The development of this novel optogenetic tool to modulate eIF4E-dependent translation with spatiotemporal precision will permit future studies to unravel the complex relationship between protein synthesis and the consolidation of LTM.
Collapse
|
5
|
Deutsch SI, Burket JA. From Mouse to Man: N-Methyl-d-Aspartic Acid Receptor Activation as a Promising Pharmacotherapeutic Strategy for Autism Spectrum Disorders. Med Clin North Am 2023; 107:101-117. [PMID: 36402493 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcna.2022.05.002] [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] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The BALB/c mouse displays hypersensitivity to behavioral effects of MK-801 (dizocilpine), a noncompetitive N-methyl-d-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor "open-channel" blocker, and shows both no preference for an enclosed stimulus mouse over an inanimate object and reduced social interaction with a freely behaving stimulus mouse. NMDA receptor agonist interventions improved measures of social preference and social interaction of the BALB/c mouse model of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A "proof of principle/proof of concept" translational 10-week clinical trial with 8-week of active medication administration was conducted comparing 20 DSM-IV-TR-diagnosed older adolescent/young adult patients with ASD randomized to once-weekly pulsed administration (50 mg/d) versus daily administration of d-cycloserine (50 mg/d). The results showed that d-cycloserine, a partial glycine agonist, was well tolerated, the 2 dosing strategies did not differ, and improvement was noted on the "lethargy/social withdrawal" and "stereotypic behavior" subscales of the Aberrant Behavior Checklist. NMDA receptor activation contributes to the regulation of mTOR signaling, a pathologic point of convergence in several monogenic syndromic forms of ASD. Furthermore, both NMDA receptor hypofunction and imbalance between NMDA receptor activation mediated by GluN2B and GluN2A-containing NMDA receptors occur as "downstream" consequences of several genetically unrelated abnormalities associated with ASD. NMDA receptor-subtype selective "positive allosteric modulators (PAMs)" are particularly appealing medication candidates for future translational trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen I Deutsch
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, 825 Fairfax Avenue, Suite 710, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA
| | - Jessica A Burket
- Department of Molecular Biology & Chemistry, Christopher Newport University, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News, VA 23606, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ladraa S, Zerbib L, Bayard C, Fraissenon A, Venot Q, Morin G, Garneau AP, Isnard P, Chapelle C, Hoguin C, Fraitag S, Duong JP, Guibaud L, Besançon A, Kaltenbach S, Villarese P, Asnafi V, Broissand C, Goudin N, Dussiot M, Nemazanyy I, Viel T, Autret G, Cruciani-Guglielmacci C, Denom J, Bruneau J, Tavitian B, Legendre C, Dairou J, Lacorte JM, Levy P, Pende M, Polak M, Canaud G. PIK3CA gain-of-function mutation in adipose tissue induces metabolic reprogramming with Warburg-like effect and severe endocrine disruption. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eade7823. [PMID: 36490341 PMCID: PMC9733923 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ade7823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
PIK3CA-related overgrowth syndrome (PROS) is a genetic disorder caused by somatic mosaic gain-of-function mutations of PIK3CA. Clinical presentation of patients is diverse and associated with endocrine disruption. Adipose tissue is frequently involved, but its role in disease development and progression has not been elucidated. Here, we created a mouse model of PIK3CA-related adipose tissue overgrowth that recapitulates patient phenotype. We demonstrate that PIK3CA mutation leads to GLUT4 membrane accumulation with a negative feedback loop on insulin secretion, a burst of liver IGFBP1 synthesis with IGF-1 sequestration, and low circulating levels. Mouse phenotype was mainly driven through AKT2. We also observed that PIK3CA mutation induces metabolic reprogramming with Warburg-like effect and protein and lipid synthesis, hallmarks of cancer cells, in vitro, in vivo, and in patients. We lastly show that alpelisib is efficient at preventing and improving PIK3CA-adipose tissue overgrowth and reversing metabolomic anomalies in both animal models and patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Ladraa
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Lola Zerbib
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Charles Bayard
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Antoine Fraissenon
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
- Service d’Imagerie Pédiatrique, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, HCL, Bron, France
- CREATIS UMR 5220, Villeurbanne 69100, France
- Service de Radiologie Mère-Enfant, Hôpital Nord, Saint Etienne, France
| | - Quitterie Venot
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Gabriel Morin
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Alexandre P. Garneau
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Isnard
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Service d’Anatomie pathologique, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Célia Chapelle
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Clément Hoguin
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
- Unité de médecine translationnelle et thérapies ciblées, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Sylvie Fraitag
- Service d’Anatomie pathologique, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Paul Duong
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Service d’Anatomie pathologique, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Laurent Guibaud
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
- Service d’Imagerie Pédiatrique, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, HCL, Bron, France
| | - Alix Besançon
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Service d’Endocrinologie, Gynécologie et Diabétologie Pédiatrique, Centre des maladies endocriniennes rares de la croissance et du développement, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Kaltenbach
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Laboratoire d’Oncohématologie, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Patrick Villarese
- Laboratoire d’Oncohématologie, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Vahid Asnafi
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
- Laboratoire d’Oncohématologie, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | | | - Nicolas Goudin
- Necker Bio-Image Analysis, INSERM US24/CNRS UMS 3633, Paris, France
| | - Michael Dussiot
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- INSERM U1163, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Hematological Disorders and Therapeutic Implications, Laboratoire d’Excellence GR-Ex, Paris, France
| | - Ivan Nemazanyy
- Platform for Metabolic Analyses, Structure Fédérative de Recherche Necker, INSERM US24/CNRS UMS 3633, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Viel
- Plateforme Imageries du Vivant, Université de Paris, PARCC, INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Gwennhael Autret
- Plateforme Imageries du Vivant, Université de Paris, PARCC, INSERM, Paris, France
| | | | - Jessica Denom
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Julie Bruneau
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Service d’Anatomie pathologique, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Bertrand Tavitian
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Plateforme Imageries du Vivant, Université de Paris, PARCC, INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Christophe Legendre
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
- Service de Néphrologie, Transplantation Adultes, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Julien Dairou
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Laboratoire de Chimie et de Biochimie Pharmacologiques et Toxicologiques, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Marc Lacorte
- Laboratoire de Biochimie Endocrinienne et Oncologique, Hôpital La Pitié Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Pacifique Levy
- Laboratoire de Biochimie Endocrinienne et Oncologique, Hôpital La Pitié Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Mario Pende
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Michel Polak
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Service d’Endocrinologie, Gynécologie et Diabétologie Pédiatrique, Centre des maladies endocriniennes rares de la croissance et du développement, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Guillaume Canaud
- Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
- Unité de médecine translationnelle et thérapies ciblées, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kim IB, Lee T, Lee J, Kim J, Lee S, Koh IG, Kim JH, An JY, Lee H, Kim WK, Ju YS, Cho Y, Yu SJ, Kim SA, Oh M, Han DW, Kim E, Choi JK, Yoo HJ, Lee JH. Non-coding de novo mutations in chromatin interactions are implicated in autism spectrum disorder. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:4680-4694. [PMID: 35840799 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01697-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Three-dimensional chromatin interactions regulate gene expressions. The significance of de novo mutations (DNMs) in chromatin interactions remains poorly understood for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We generated 813 whole-genome sequences from 242 Korean simplex families to detect DNMs, and identified target genes which were putatively affected by non-coding DNMs in chromatin interactions. Non-coding DNMs in chromatin interactions were significantly involved in transcriptional dysregulations related to ASD risk. Correspondingly, target genes showed spatiotemporal expressions relevant to ASD in developing brains and enrichment in biological pathways implicated in ASD, such as histone modification. Regarding clinical features of ASD, non-coding DNMs in chromatin interactions particularly contributed to low intelligence quotient levels in ASD probands. We further validated our findings using two replication cohorts, Simons Simplex Collection (SSC) and MSSNG, and showed the consistent enrichment of non-coding DNM-disrupted chromatin interactions in ASD probands. Generating human induced pluripotent stem cells in two ASD families, we were able to demonstrate that non-coding DNMs in chromatin interactions alter the expression of target genes at the stage of early neural development. Taken together, our findings indicate that non-coding DNMs in ASD probands lead to early neurodevelopmental disruption implicated in ASD risk via chromatin interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Il Bin Kim
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, Hanyang University Guri Hospital, Guri, 11923, Republic of Korea
| | - Taeyeop Lee
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.,Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Junehawk Lee
- Center for Supercomputing Applications, Division of National Supercomputing, Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Jonghun Kim
- Department of Genetics, Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Suho Lee
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - In Gyeong Koh
- Industry-University Cooperation Foundation, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hyun Kim
- Department of Integrated Biomedical and Life Science, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.,BK21FOUR R&E Center for Learning Health Systems, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.,School of Biosystem and Biomedical Science, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon-Yong An
- Department of Integrated Biomedical and Life Science, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.,BK21FOUR R&E Center for Learning Health Systems, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.,School of Biosystem and Biomedical Science, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunseong Lee
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05030, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo Kyeong Kim
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Seok Ju
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongseong Cho
- Center for Supercomputing Applications, Division of National Supercomputing, Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok Jong Yu
- Center for Supercomputing Applications, Division of National Supercomputing, Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Soon Ae Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, Eulji University, Daejeon, 13135, Republic of Korea
| | - Miae Oh
- Department of Psychiatry, Kyung Hee University Hospital, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Wook Han
- School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, China.,Organoid sciences, Ltd., Bundang-gu, Seongnam, 13488, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunjoon Kim
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jung Kyoon Choi
- Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hee Jeong Yoo
- Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, 13620, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jeong Ho Lee
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea. .,Sovargen Co. Ltd., Daejeon, 34051, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ilieva M, Aldana BI, Vinten KT, Hohmann S, Woofenden TW, Lukjanska R, Waagepetersen HS, Michel TM. Proteomic phenotype of cerebral organoids derived from autism spectrum disorder patients reveal disrupted energy metabolism, cellular components, and biological processes. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:3749-3759. [PMID: 35618886 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01627-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The way in which brain morphology and proteome are remodeled during embryonal development, and how they are linked to the cellular metabolism, could be a key for elucidating the pathological mechanisms of certain neurodevelopmental disorders. Cerebral organoids derived from autism spectrum disorder (ASD) patients were generated to capture critical time-points in the neuronal development, and metabolism and protein expression were investigated. The early stages of development, when neurogenesis commences (day in vitro 39), appeared to be a critical timepoint in pathogenesis. In the first month of development, increased size in ASD-derived organoids were detected in comparison to the controls. The size of the organoids correlates with the number of proliferating cells (Ki-67 positive cells). A significant difference in energy metabolism and proteome phenotype was also observed in ASD organoids at this time point, specifically, prevalence of glycolysis over oxidative phosphorylation, decreased ATP production and mitochondrial respiratory chain activity, differently expressed cell adhesion proteins, cell cycle (spindle formation), cytoskeleton, and several transcription factors. Finally, ASD patients and controls derived organoids were clustered based on a differential expression of ten proteins-heat shock protein 27 (hsp27) phospho Ser 15, Pyk (FAK2), Elk-1, Rac1/cdc42, S6 ribosomal protein phospho Ser 240/Ser 244, Ha-ras, mTOR (FRAP) phospho Ser 2448, PKCα, FoxO3a, Src family phospho Tyr 416-at day 39 which could be defined as potential biomarkers and further investigated for potential drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mirolyuba Ilieva
- Department of Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark. .,Psychiatry in the Region of Southern Denmark, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark. .,Center for RNA Medicine, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Copenhagen SV, Denmark.
| | - Blanca Irene Aldana
- Neurometabolism Research Group, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kasper Tore Vinten
- Neurometabolism Research Group, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sonja Hohmann
- Department of Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Psychiatry in the Region of Southern Denmark, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Thomas William Woofenden
- Neurometabolism Research Group, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Renate Lukjanska
- Department of Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Psychiatry in the Region of Southern Denmark, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Helle S Waagepetersen
- Neurometabolism Research Group, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tanja Maria Michel
- Department of Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Psychiatry in the Region of Southern Denmark, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
BDNF, proBDNF and IGF-1 serum levels in naïve and medicated subjects with autism. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13768. [PMID: 35962006 PMCID: PMC9374711 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17503-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) promote the development and maintenance of neural circuits. Alterations in these factors might contribute to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We asked whether serum BDNF, proBDNF, and IGF-1 levels are altered in an ASD population compared to controls. We measured serum BDNF, proBDNF, and IGF-1 immunoreactive protein in boys and girls aged 5–15 years old with mild to moderate ASD and non-autistic controls by ELISA. IGF-1 was increased in ASD serum compared to controls and was correlated with age and with CARS scores. Serum BDNF levels did not differ between groups, however, proBDNF serum levels were decreased in subjects with ASD compared to non-autistic controls. Medicated, but not unmedicated, ASD subjects exhibited lower serum proBDNF levels compared to controls, while neither IGF-1 nor BDNF levels differed between treatment groups. These data support the involvement of proBDNF and IGF-1 in the pathogenesis and treatment of autism.
Collapse
|
10
|
Chaudry S, Vasudevan N. mTOR-Dependent Spine Dynamics in Autism. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:877609. [PMID: 35782388 PMCID: PMC9241970 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.877609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by deficits in social communication and interaction as well as repetitive behaviors and restricted range of interests. ASC are complex genetic disorders with moderate to high heritability, and associated with atypical patterns of neural connectivity. Many of the genes implicated in ASC are involved in dendritic spine pruning and spine development, both of which can be mediated by the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. Consistent with this idea, human postmortem studies have shown increased spine density in ASC compared to controls suggesting that the balance between autophagy and spinogenesis is altered in ASC. However, murine models of ASC have shown inconsistent results for spine morphology, which may underlie functional connectivity. This review seeks to establish the relevance of changes in dendritic spines in ASC using data gathered from rodent models. Using a literature survey, we identify 20 genes that are linked to dendritic spine pruning or development in rodents that are also strongly implicated in ASC in humans. Furthermore, we show that all 20 genes are linked to the mTOR pathway and propose that the mTOR pathway regulating spine dynamics is a potential mechanism underlying the ASC signaling pathway in ASC. We show here that the direction of change in spine density was mostly correlated to the upstream positive or negative regulation of the mTOR pathway and most rodent models of mutant mTOR regulators show increases in immature spines, based on morphological analyses. We further explore the idea that these mutations in these genes result in aberrant social behavior in rodent models that is due to these altered spine dynamics. This review should therefore pave the way for further research on the specific genes outlined, their effect on spine morphology or density with an emphasis on understanding the functional role of these changes in ASC.
Collapse
|
11
|
Brašić JR, Goodman JA, Nandi A, Russell DS, Jennings D, Barret O, Martin SD, Slifer K, Sedlak T, Mathur AK, Seibyl JP, Berry-Kravis EM, Wong DF, Budimirovic DB. Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein and Cerebral Expression of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor Subtype 5 in Men with Fragile X Syndrome: A Pilot Study. Brain Sci 2022; 12:314. [PMID: 35326270 PMCID: PMC8946825 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12030314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple lines of evidence suggest that a deficiency of Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein (FMRP) mediates dysfunction of the metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 5 (mGluR5) in the pathogenesis of fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most commonly known single-gene cause of inherited intellectual disability (ID) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Nevertheless, animal and human studies regarding the link between FMRP and mGluR5 expression provide inconsistent or conflicting findings about the nature of those relationships. Since multiple clinical trials of glutamatergic agents in humans with FXS did not demonstrate the amelioration of the behavioral phenotype observed in animal models of FXS, we sought measure if mGluR5 expression is increased in men with FXS to form the basis for improved clinical trials. Unexpectedly marked reductions in mGluR5 expression were observed in cortical and subcortical regions in men with FXS. Reduced mGluR5 expression throughout the living brains of men with FXS provides a clue to examine FMRP and mGluR5 expression in FXS. In order to develop the findings of our previous study and to strengthen the objective tools for future clinical trials of glutamatergic agents in FXS, we sought to assess the possible value of measuring both FMRP levels and mGluR5 expression in men with FXS. We aimed to show the value of measurement of FMRP levels and mGluR5 expression for the diagnosis and treatment of individuals with FXS and related conditions. We administered 3-[18F]fluoro-5-(2-pyridinylethynyl)benzonitrile ([18F]FPEB), a specific mGluR5 radioligand for quantitative measurements of the density and the distribution of mGluR5s, to six men with the full mutation (FM) of FXS and to one man with allele size mosaicism for FXS (FXS-M). Utilizing the seven cortical and subcortical regions affected in neurodegenerative disorders as indicator variables, adjusted linear regression of mGluR5 expression and FMRP showed that mGluR5 expression was significantly reduced in the occipital cortex and the thalamus relative to baseline (anterior cingulate cortex) if FMRP levels are held constant (F(7,47) = 6.84, p < 0.001).These findings indicate the usefulness of cerebral mGluR5 expression measured by PET with [18F]FPEB and FMRP values in men with FXS and related conditions for assessments in community facilities within a hundred-mile radius of a production center with a cyclotron. These initial results of this pilot study advance our previous study regarding the measurement of mGluR5 expression by combining both FMRP levels and mGluR5 expression as tools for meaningful clinical trials of glutamatergic agents for men with FXS. We confirm the feasibility of this protocol as a valuable tool to measure FMRP levels and mGluR5 expression in clinical trials of individuals with FXS and related conditions and to provide the foundations to apply precision medicine to tailor treatment plans to the specific needs of individuals with FXS and related conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James Robert Brašić
- Section of High Resolution Brain Positron Emission Tomography Imaging, Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (A.N.); (S.D.M.); (T.S.); (A.K.M.); (D.F.W.)
| | - Jack Alexander Goodman
- Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, Quinnipiac University, North Haven, CT 06473, USA;
| | - Ayon Nandi
- Section of High Resolution Brain Positron Emission Tomography Imaging, Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (A.N.); (S.D.M.); (T.S.); (A.K.M.); (D.F.W.)
| | - David S. Russell
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Disorders, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (D.S.R.); (D.J.); (O.B.); (J.P.S.)
- Invicro, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Danna Jennings
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Disorders, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (D.S.R.); (D.J.); (O.B.); (J.P.S.)
- Invicro, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Denali Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Olivier Barret
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Disorders, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (D.S.R.); (D.J.); (O.B.); (J.P.S.)
- Invicro, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Laboratoire des Maladies Neurodégénératives, Molecular Imaging Research Center (MIRCen), Institut de Biologie François Jacob, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Commissariat à l’Énergie Atomique et aux Énergies Alternatives (CEA), Université Paris-Saclay, CEDEX, 92265 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Samuel D. Martin
- Section of High Resolution Brain Positron Emission Tomography Imaging, Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (A.N.); (S.D.M.); (T.S.); (A.K.M.); (D.F.W.)
- Department of Neuroscience, Zanvyl Krieger School of Arts and Sciences, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Keith Slifer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences-Child Psychiatry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
- Department of Behavioral Psychology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Thomas Sedlak
- Section of High Resolution Brain Positron Emission Tomography Imaging, Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (A.N.); (S.D.M.); (T.S.); (A.K.M.); (D.F.W.)
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences-General Psychiatry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Anil Kumar Mathur
- Section of High Resolution Brain Positron Emission Tomography Imaging, Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (A.N.); (S.D.M.); (T.S.); (A.K.M.); (D.F.W.)
| | - John P. Seibyl
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Disorders, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (D.S.R.); (D.J.); (O.B.); (J.P.S.)
- Invicro, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Elizabeth M. Berry-Kravis
- Departments of Pediatrics, Neurological Sciences, and Biochemistry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA;
| | - Dean F. Wong
- Section of High Resolution Brain Positron Emission Tomography Imaging, Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; (A.N.); (S.D.M.); (T.S.); (A.K.M.); (D.F.W.)
- Laboratory of Central Nervous System (CNS) Neuropsychopharmacology and Multimodal, Imaging (CNAMI), Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University, Saint Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Dejan B. Budimirovic
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences-Child Psychiatry, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
- Department of Psychiatry, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Deutsch SI, Luyo ZNM, Burket JA. Targeted NMDA Receptor Interventions for Autism: Developmentally Determined Expression of GluN2B and GluN2A-Containing Receptors and Balanced Allosteric Modulatory Approaches. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12020181. [PMID: 35204682 PMCID: PMC8961601 DOI: 10.3390/biom12020181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Various ASD risk alleles have been associated with impairment of NMDA receptor activation (i.e., NMDA Receptor Hypofunction) and/or disturbance of the careful balance between activation mediated by GluN2B-subtype and GluN2A-subtype-containing NMDA receptors. Importantly, although these various risk alleles affect NMDA receptor activation through different mechanisms, they share the pathogenic consequences of causing disturbance of highly regulated NMDA receptor activation. Disturbances of NMDA receptor activation due to sequence variants, protein termination variants and copy number variants are often cell-specific and regionally selective. Thus, translational therapeutic NMDA receptor agonist interventions, which may require chronic administration, must have specificity, selectivity and facilitate NMDA receptor activation in a manner that is physiologic (i.e., mimicking that of endogenously released glutamate and glycine/D-serine released in response to salient and relevant socio-cognitive provocations within discrete neural circuits). Importantly, knockout mice with absent expression and mice with haploinsufficient expression of the deleterious genes often serve as good models to test the potential efficacy of promising pharmacotherapeutic strategies. The Review considers diverse examples of “illness” genes, their pathogenic effects on NMDA receptor activation and, when available, results of studies of impaired sociability in mouse models, including “proof of principle/proof of concept” experiments exploring NMDA receptor agonist interventions and the development of promising positive allosteric modulators (PAMs), which serve as support and models for developing an inventory of PAMs and negative allosteric modulators (NAMs) for translational therapeutic intervention. Conceivably, selective PAMs and NAMs either alone or in combination will be administered to patients guided by their genotype in order to potentiate and/or restore disrupted balance between activation mediated by GluN2B-subtype and GluN2A-subtype containing NMDA receptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen I. Deutsch
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, 825 Fairfax Avenue, Suite 710, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA;
| | - Zachary N. M. Luyo
- Program in Neuroscience, Christopher Newport University, Newport News, VA 23606, USA;
| | - Jessica A. Burket
- Program in Neuroscience, Christopher Newport University, Newport News, VA 23606, USA;
- Department of Molecular Biology & Chemistry, Christopher Newport University, Newport News, VA 23606, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-757-594-8743
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Terry BK, Park R, Cho SH, Crino PB, Kim S. Abnormal activation of Yap/Taz contributes to the pathogenesis of tuberous sclerosis complex. Hum Mol Genet 2022; 31:1979-1996. [PMID: 34999833 PMCID: PMC9239747 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The multi-systemic genetic disorder tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) impacts multiple neurodevelopmental processes including neuronal morphogenesis, neuronal migration, myelination and gliogenesis. These alterations contribute to the development of cerebral cortex abnormalities and malformations. Although TSC is caused by mTORC1 hyperactivation, cognitive and behavioral impairments are not improved through mTORC1 targeting, making the study of the downstream effectors of this complex important for understanding the mechanisms underlying TSC. As mTORC1 has been shown to promote the activity of the transcriptional co-activator Yap, we hypothesized that altered Yap/Taz signaling contributes to the pathogenesis of TSC. We first observed that the levels of Yap/Taz are increased in human cortical tuber samples and in embryonic cortices of Tsc2 conditional knockout (cKO) mice. Next, to determine how abnormal upregulation of Yap/Taz impacts the neuropathology of TSC, we deleted Yap/Taz in Tsc2 cKO mice. Importantly, Yap/Taz/Tsc2 triple conditional knockout (tcKO) animals show reduced cortical thickness and cortical neuron cell size, despite the persistence of high mTORC1 activity, suggesting that Yap/Taz play a downstream role in cytomegaly. Furthermore, Yap/Taz/Tsc2 tcKO significantly restored cortical and hippocampal lamination defects and reduced hippocampal heterotopia formation. Finally, the loss of Yap/Taz increased the distribution of myelin basic protein in Tsc2 cKO animals, consistent with an improvement in myelination. Overall, our results indicate that targeting Yap/Taz lessens the severity of neuropathology in a TSC animal model. This study is the first to implicate Yap/Taz as contributors to cortical pathogenesis in TSC and therefore as potential novel targets in the treatment of this disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bethany K Terry
- Department of Neural Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Shriners Hospitals Pediatrics Research Center, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA,Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Raehee Park
- Department of Neural Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Shriners Hospitals Pediatrics Research Center, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Seo-Hee Cho
- Department of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Center for Translational Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Peter B Crino
- Department of Neurology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Seonhee Kim
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: 215-926-9360; Fax: 215-926-9325;
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Liaci C, Camera M, Caslini G, Rando S, Contino S, Romano V, Merlo GR. Neuronal Cytoskeleton in Intellectual Disability: From Systems Biology and Modeling to Therapeutic Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22116167. [PMID: 34200511 PMCID: PMC8201358 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Intellectual disability (ID) is a pathological condition characterized by limited intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviors. It affects 1–3% of the worldwide population, and no pharmacological therapies are currently available. More than 1000 genes have been found mutated in ID patients pointing out that, despite the common phenotype, the genetic bases are highly heterogeneous and apparently unrelated. Bibliomic analysis reveals that ID genes converge onto a few biological modules, including cytoskeleton dynamics, whose regulation depends on Rho GTPases transduction. Genetic variants exert their effects at different levels in a hierarchical arrangement, starting from the molecular level and moving toward higher levels of organization, i.e., cell compartment and functions, circuits, cognition, and behavior. Thus, cytoskeleton alterations that have an impact on cell processes such as neuronal migration, neuritogenesis, and synaptic plasticity rebound on the overall establishment of an effective network and consequently on the cognitive phenotype. Systems biology (SB) approaches are more focused on the overall interconnected network rather than on individual genes, thus encouraging the design of therapies that aim to correct common dysregulated biological processes. This review summarizes current knowledge about cytoskeleton control in neurons and its relevance for the ID pathogenesis, exploiting in silico modeling and translating the implications of those findings into biomedical research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Liaci
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Via Nizza 52, 10126 Torino, Italy; (C.L.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (S.R.)
| | - Mattia Camera
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Via Nizza 52, 10126 Torino, Italy; (C.L.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (S.R.)
| | - Giovanni Caslini
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Via Nizza 52, 10126 Torino, Italy; (C.L.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (S.R.)
| | - Simona Rando
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Via Nizza 52, 10126 Torino, Italy; (C.L.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (S.R.)
| | - Salvatore Contino
- Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 8, 90128 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Valentino Romano
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed. 16, 90128 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Giorgio R. Merlo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Via Nizza 52, 10126 Torino, Italy; (C.L.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (S.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0116706449; Fax: +39-0116706432
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Agam G, Taylor Z, Vainer E, Golan HM. The influence of choline treatment on behavioral and neurochemical autistic-like phenotype in Mthfr-deficient mice. Transl Psychiatry 2020; 10:316. [PMID: 32948746 PMCID: PMC7501861 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-020-01002-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Imbalanced one carbon metabolism and aberrant autophagy is robustly reported in patients with autism. Polymorphism in the gene methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (Mthfr), encoding for a key enzyme in this pathway is associated with an increased risk for autistic-spectrum-disorders (ASDs). Autistic-like core and associated behaviors have been described, with contribution of both maternal and offspring Mthfr+/- genotype to the different domains of behavior. Preconception and prenatal supplementation with methyl donor rich diet to human subjects and mice reduced the risk for developing autism and autistic-like behavior, respectively. Here we tested the potential of choline supplementation to Mthfr-deficient mice at young-adulthood to reduce behavioral and neurochemical changes reminiscent of autism characteristics. We show that offspring of Mthfr+/- mothers, whether wildtype or heterozygote, exhibit autistic-like behavior, altered brain p62 protein levels and LC3-II/LC3-I levels ratio, both, autophagy markers. Choline supplementation to adult offspring of Mthfr+/- mothers for 14 days counteracted characteristics related to repetitive behavior and anxiety both in males and in females and improved social behavior solely in male mice. Choline treatment also normalized deviant cortical levels of the autophagy markers measured in male mice. The results demonstrate that choline supplementation even at adulthood, not tested previously, to offspring of Mthfr-deficient mothers, attenuates the autistic-like phenotype. If this proof of concept is replicated it might promote translation of these results to treatment recommendation for children with ASDs bearing similar genetic/metabolic make-up.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Galila Agam
- grid.7489.20000 0004 1937 0511Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology and Psychiatry Research Unit, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Mental Health Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel ,grid.7489.20000 0004 1937 0511Zlotowski Center for Neurosciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Zoe Taylor
- grid.7489.20000 0004 1937 0511Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Ella Vainer
- grid.7489.20000 0004 1937 0511Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology and Psychiatry Research Unit, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Mental Health Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Hava M. Golan
- grid.7489.20000 0004 1937 0511Zlotowski Center for Neurosciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel ,grid.7489.20000 0004 1937 0511Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Samanta D. An Updated Review of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex-Associated Autism Spectrum Disorder. Pediatr Neurol 2020; 109:4-11. [PMID: 32563542 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2020.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a neurocutaneous disorder caused by mutations of either the TSC1 or TSC2 gene. Various neuropsychiatric features, including autism, are prevalent in TSC. Recently, significant progress has been possible with the prospective calculation of the prevalence of autism in TSC, identification of early clinical and neurophysiological biomarkers to predict autism, and investigation of different therapies to prevent autism in this high-risk population. The author provides a narrative review of recent findings related to biomarkers for diagnosis of autism in TSC, as well as recent studies related to the management of TSC-associated autism. Further sophisticated modeling and analysis are required to understand the role of different models-tuber models, seizures and related neurophysiological factors models, genotype models, and brain connectivity models-to unravel the neurobiological basis of autism in TSC. Early neuropsychologic assessments may be beneficial in this high-risk group. Targeted intervention to improve visual skill, cognition, and fine motor skills with later addition of social skill training can be helpful. Multicenter, prospective studies are ongoing to identify if presymptomatic treatment with vigabatrin in patients with TSC can improve outcomes, including autism. Several studies indicated reasonable safety of everolimus in young children, and its potential application in high-risk infants with TSC, before the closure of the temporal window of permanent changes, maybe undertaken shortly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Debopam Samanta
- Child Neurology Section, Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Xu T, Sun D, Chen Y, Ouyang L. Targeting mTOR for fighting diseases: A revisited review of mTOR inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 199:112391. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
18
|
Skelton PD, Stan RV, Luikart BW. The Role of PTEN in Neurodevelopment. MOLECULAR NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2020; 5:60-71. [PMID: 32399470 PMCID: PMC7206585 DOI: 10.1159/000504782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PTEN is a lipid and protein phosphatase that regulates cell growth and survival. Mutations to PTEN are highly penetrant for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Here, we briefly review the evidence linking PTEN mutations to ASD and the mouse models that have been used to study the role of PTEN in neurodevelopment. We then focus on the cellular phenotypes associated with PTEN loss in neurons, highlighting the role PTEN plays in neuronal proliferation, migration, survival, morphology, and plasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick D. Skelton
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Radu V. Stan
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Bryan W. Luikart
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ibarra-Lecue I, Diez-Alarcia R, Morentin B, Meana JJ, Callado LF, Urigüen L. Ribosomal Protein S6 Hypofunction in Postmortem Human Brain Links mTORC1-Dependent Signaling and Schizophrenia. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:344. [PMID: 32265715 PMCID: PMC7105616 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanistic target of rapamycin (also known as mammalian target of rapamycin) (mTOR)-dependent signaling pathway plays an important role in protein synthesis, cell growth, and proliferation, and has been linked to the development of the central nervous system. Recent studies suggest that mTOR signaling pathway dysfunction could be involved in the etiopathogenesis of schizophrenia. The main goal of this study was to evaluate the status of mTOR signaling pathway in postmortem prefrontal cortex (PFC) samples of subjects with schizophrenia. For this purpose, we quantified the protein expression and phosphorylation status of the mTOR downstream effector ribosomal protein S6 as well as other pathway interactors such as Akt and GSK3β. Furthermore, we quantified the status of these proteins in the brain cortex of rats chronically treated with the antipsychotics haloperidol, clozapine, or risperidone. We found a striking decrease in the expression of total S6 and in its active phosphorylated form phospho-S6 (Ser235/236) in the brain of subjects with schizophrenia compared to matched controls. The chronic treatment with the antipsychotics haloperidol and clozapine affected both the expression of GSK3β and the activation of Akt [phospho-Akt (Ser473)] in rat brain cortex, while no changes were observed in S6 and phospho-S6 (Ser235/236) protein expression with any antipsychotic treatment. These findings provide further evidence for the involvement of the mTOR-dependent signaling pathway in schizophrenia and suggest that a hypofunctional S6 may have a role in the etiopathogenesis of this disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inés Ibarra-Lecue
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Leioa, Spain
| | - Rebeca Diez-Alarcia
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Leioa, Spain.,Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Benito Morentin
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain.,Section of Forensic Pathology, Basque Institute of Legal Medicine, Bilbao, Spain
| | - J Javier Meana
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Leioa, Spain.,Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Luis F Callado
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Leioa, Spain.,Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Leyre Urigüen
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Leioa, Spain.,Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Laser microdissection-based microproteomics of the hippocampus of a rat epilepsy model reveals regional differences in protein abundances. Sci Rep 2020; 10:4412. [PMID: 32157145 PMCID: PMC7064578 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-61401-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) is a chronic neurological disorder affecting almost 40% of adult patients with epilepsy. Hippocampal sclerosis (HS) is a common histopathological abnormality found in patients with MTLE. HS is characterised by extensive neuronal loss in different hippocampus sub-regions. In this study, we used laser microdissection-based microproteomics to determine the protein abundances in different regions and layers of the hippocampus dentate gyrus (DG) in an electric stimulation rodent model which displays classical HS damage similar to that found in patients with MTLE. Our results indicate that there are differences in the proteomic profiles of different layers (granule cell and molecular), as well as different regions, of the DG (ventral and dorsal). We have identified new signalling pathways and proteins present in specific layers and regions of the DG, such as PARK7, RACK1, and connexin 31/gap junction. We also found two major signalling pathways that are common to all layers and regions: inflammation and energy metabolism. Finally, our results highlight the utility of high-throughput microproteomics and spatial-limited isolation of tissues in the study of complex disorders to fully appreciate the large biological heterogeneity present in different cell populations within the central nervous system.
Collapse
|
21
|
Zhang W, Ma L, Yang M, Shao Q, Xu J, Lu Z, Zhao Z, Chen R, Chai Y, Chen JF. Cerebral organoid and mouse models reveal a RAB39b-PI3K-mTOR pathway-dependent dysregulation of cortical development leading to macrocephaly/autism phenotypes. Genes Dev 2020; 34:580-597. [PMID: 32115408 PMCID: PMC7111266 DOI: 10.1101/gad.332494.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulation of early neurodevelopment is implicated in macrocephaly/autism disorders. However, the mechanism underlying this dysregulation, particularly in human cells, remains poorly understood. Mutations in the small GTPase gene RAB39b are associated with X-linked macrocephaly, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and intellectual disability. The in vivo roles of RAB39b in the brain remain unknown. We generated Rab39b knockout (KO) mice and found that they exhibited cortical neurogenesis impairment, macrocephaly, and hallmark ASD behaviors, which resembled patient phenotypes. We also produced mutant human cerebral organoids that were substantially enlarged due to the overproliferation and impaired differentiation of neural progenitor cells (NPCs), which resemble neurodevelopmental deficits in KO mice. Mechanistic studies reveal that RAB39b interacts with PI3K components and its deletion promotes PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling in NPCs of mouse cortex and cerebral organoids. The mTOR activity is robustly enhanced in mutant outer radial glia cells (oRGs), a subtype of NPCs barely detectable in rodents but abundant in human brains. Inhibition of AKT signaling rescued enlarged organoid sizes and NPC overproliferation caused by RAB39b mutations. Therefore, RAB39b mutation promotes PI3K-AKT-mTOR activity and alters cortical neurogenesis, leading to macrocephaly and autistic-like behaviors. Our studies provide new insights into neurodevelopmental dysregulation and common pathways associated with ASD across species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
| | - Li Ma
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
| | - Mei Yang
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
| | - Qiang Shao
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
| | - Jian Xu
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
| | - Zhipeng Lu
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Zhen Zhao
- Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
| | - Rong Chen
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
| | - Yang Chai
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
| | - Jian-Fu Chen
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
The Ubiquitin System: a Regulatory Hub for Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Mol Neurobiol 2020; 57:2179-2193. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-01881-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
23
|
Deutsch SI, Burket JA. An Evolving Therapeutic Rationale for Targeting the α 7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2020; 45:167-208. [PMID: 32468495 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2020_136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Abnormalities of cholinergic nuclei, cholinergic projections, and cholinergic receptors, as well as abnormalities of growth factors involved in the maturation and maintenance of cholinergic neurons, have been described in postmortem brains of persons with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Further, microdeletions of the 15q13.3 locus that encompasses CHRNA7, the gene coding the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7 nAChR), are associated with a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders, including ASD. The heterozygous 15q13.3 microdeletion syndrome suggests that diminished or impaired transduction of the acetylcholine (ACh) signal by the α7 nAChR can be a pathogenic mechanism of ASD. The α7 nAChR has a role in regulating the firing and function of parvalbumin (PV)-expressing GABAergic projections, which synchronize the oscillatory output of assemblies of pyramidal neurons onto which they project. Synchronous oscillatory output is an electrophysiological substrate for higher executive functions, such as working memory, and functional connectivity between discrete anatomic areas of the brain. The α7 nAChR regulates PV expression and works cooperatively with the co-expressed NMDA receptor in subpopulations of GABAergic interneurons in mouse models of ASD. An evolving literature supports therapeutic exploration of selectively targeted cholinergic interventions for the treatment of ASD, especially compounds that target the α7 nAChR subtype. Importantly, development and availability of high-affinity, brain-penetrable, α7 nAChR-selective agonists, partial agonists, allosteric agonists, and positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) should facilitate "proof-of-principle/concept" clinical trials. nAChRs are pentameric allosteric proteins that function as ligand-gated ion channel receptors constructed from five constituent polypeptide subunits, all of which share a common structural motif. Importantly, in addition to α7 nAChR-gated Ca2+ conductance causing membrane depolarization, there are emerging data consistent with possible metabotropic functions of this ionotropic receptor. The ability of α7-selective type II PAMs to "destabilize" the desensitized state and promote ion channel opening may afford them therapeutic advantages over orthosteric agonists. The current chapter reviews historic and recent literature supporting selective therapeutic targeting of the α7 nAChR in persons affected with ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen I Deutsch
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA.
| | - Jessica A Burket
- Department of Molecular Biology and Chemistry, Christopher Newport University, Newport News, VA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Bhandari R, Paliwal JK, Kuhad A. Neuropsychopathology of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Complex Interplay of Genetic, Epigenetic, and Environmental Factors. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 24:97-141. [PMID: 32006358 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-30402-7_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex heterogeneous consortium of pervasive development disorders (PDD) which ranges from atypical autism, autism, and Asperger syndrome affecting brain in the developmental stage. This debilitating neurodevelopmental disorder results in both core as well as associated symptoms. Core symptoms observed in autistic patients are lack of social interaction, pervasive, stereotyped, and restricted behavior while the associated symptoms include irritability, anxiety, aggression, and several comorbid disorders.ASD is a polygenic disorder and is multifactorial in origin. Copy number variations (CNVs) of several genes that regulate the synaptogenesis and signaling pathways are one of the major factors responsible for the pathogenesis of autism. The complex integration of various CNVs cause mutations in the genes which code for molecules involved in cell adhesion, voltage-gated ion-channels, scaffolding proteins as well as signaling pathways (PTEN and mTOR pathways). These mutated genes are responsible for affecting synaptic transmission by causing plasticity dysfunction responsible, in turn, for the expression of ASD.Epigenetic modifications affecting DNA transcription and various pre-natal and post-natal exposure to a variety of environmental factors are also precipitating factors for the occurrence of ASD. All of these together cause dysregulation of glutamatergic signaling as well as imbalance in excitatory: inhibitory pathways resulting in glial cell activation and release of inflammatory mediators responsible for the aberrant social behavior which is observed in autistic patients.In this chapter we review and provide insight into the intricate integration of various genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors which play a major role in the pathogenesis of this disorder and the mechanistic approach behind this integration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ranjana Bhandari
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Jyoti K Paliwal
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Anurag Kuhad
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ibarra-Lecue I, Diez-Alarcia R, Morentin B, Meana JJ, Callado LF, Urigüen L. Ribosomal Protein S6 Hypofunction in Postmortem Human Brain Links mTORC1-Dependent Signaling and Schizophrenia. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:344. [PMID: 32265715 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00344/bibtex] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanistic target of rapamycin (also known as mammalian target of rapamycin) (mTOR)-dependent signaling pathway plays an important role in protein synthesis, cell growth, and proliferation, and has been linked to the development of the central nervous system. Recent studies suggest that mTOR signaling pathway dysfunction could be involved in the etiopathogenesis of schizophrenia. The main goal of this study was to evaluate the status of mTOR signaling pathway in postmortem prefrontal cortex (PFC) samples of subjects with schizophrenia. For this purpose, we quantified the protein expression and phosphorylation status of the mTOR downstream effector ribosomal protein S6 as well as other pathway interactors such as Akt and GSK3β. Furthermore, we quantified the status of these proteins in the brain cortex of rats chronically treated with the antipsychotics haloperidol, clozapine, or risperidone. We found a striking decrease in the expression of total S6 and in its active phosphorylated form phospho-S6 (Ser235/236) in the brain of subjects with schizophrenia compared to matched controls. The chronic treatment with the antipsychotics haloperidol and clozapine affected both the expression of GSK3β and the activation of Akt [phospho-Akt (Ser473)] in rat brain cortex, while no changes were observed in S6 and phospho-S6 (Ser235/236) protein expression with any antipsychotic treatment. These findings provide further evidence for the involvement of the mTOR-dependent signaling pathway in schizophrenia and suggest that a hypofunctional S6 may have a role in the etiopathogenesis of this disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inés Ibarra-Lecue
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Leioa, Spain
| | - Rebeca Diez-Alarcia
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Leioa, Spain
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Benito Morentin
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
- Section of Forensic Pathology, Basque Institute of Legal Medicine, Bilbao, Spain
| | - J Javier Meana
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Leioa, Spain
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Luis F Callado
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Leioa, Spain
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Leyre Urigüen
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Leioa, Spain
- Biocruces Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
AMBRA1, Autophagy, and the Extreme Male Brain Theory of Autism. AUTISM RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2019; 2019:1968580. [PMID: 31687209 PMCID: PMC6811796 DOI: 10.1155/2019/1968580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The extreme male brain theory of autism posits that its male bias is mediated by exaggeration of male-biased sex differences in the expression of autism-associated traits found in typical populations. The theory is supported by extensive phenotypic evidence, but no genes have yet been described with properties that fit its predictions. The autophagy-associated gene AMBRA1 represents one of the top genome-wide “hits” in recent GWAS studies of schizophrenia, shows sex-differential expression, and has been linked with autism risk and traits in humans and mice, especially or exclusively among females. We genotyped the AMBRA1 autism-risk SNP in a population of typical humans who were scored for the dimensional expression of autistic and schizotypal traits. Females, but not males, homozygous for the GG genotype showed a significant increase in score for the single trait, the Autism Quotient-Imagination subscale, that exhibits a strong, significant male bias in typical populations. As such, females with this genotype resembled males for this highly sexually dimorphic, autism-associated phenotype. These findings support the extreme male brain hypothesis and indicate that sex-specific genetic effects can mediate aspects of risk for autism.
Collapse
|
27
|
Sceniak MP, Fedder KN, Wang Q, Droubi S, Babcock K, Patwardhan S, Wright-Zornes J, Pham L, Sabo SL. An autism-associated mutation in GluN2B prevents NMDA receptor trafficking and interferes with dendrite growth. J Cell Sci 2019; 132:jcs.232892. [PMID: 31548203 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.232892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are neurodevelopmental disorders with multiple genetic associations. Analysis of de novo mutations identified GRIN2B, which encodes the GluN2B subunit of NMDA receptors, as a gene linked to ASDs with high probability. However, the mechanisms by which GRIN2B mutations contribute to ASD pathophysiology are not understood. Here, we investigated the cellular phenotypes induced by a human mutation that is predicted to truncate GluN2B within the extracellular loop. This mutation abolished NMDA-dependent Ca2+ influx. Mutant GluN2B co-assembled with GluN1 but was not trafficked to the cell surface or dendrites. When mutant GluN2B was expressed in developing cortical neurons, dendrites appeared underdeveloped, with shorter and fewer branches, while spine density was unaffected. Mutant dendritic arbors were often dysmorphic, displaying abnormal filopodial-like structures. Interestingly, dendrite maldevelopment appeared when mutant GluN2B was expressed on a wild-type background, reflecting the disease given that individuals are heterozygous for GRIN2B mutations. Restoring the fourth transmembrane domain and cytoplasmic tail did not rescue the phenotypes. Finally, abnormal development was not accompanied by reduced mTOR signaling. These data suggest that mutations in GluN2B contribute to ASD pathogenesis by disrupting dendrite development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Sceniak
- Department of Biology, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859, USA
| | - Karlie N Fedder
- Departments of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Biology, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859, USA
| | - Sammy Droubi
- Departments of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Katie Babcock
- Department of Biology, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859, USA
| | - Sagar Patwardhan
- Departments of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Jazmin Wright-Zornes
- Department of Biology, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859, USA
| | - Lucynda Pham
- Department of Biology, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859, USA
| | - Shasta L Sabo
- Department of Biology, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859, USA .,Departments of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Yang G, Shcheglovitov A. Probing disrupted neurodevelopment in autism using human stem cell-derived neurons and organoids: An outlook into future diagnostics and drug development. Dev Dyn 2019; 249:6-33. [PMID: 31398277 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) represent a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impaired social interaction, repetitive or restrictive behaviors, and problems with speech. According to a recent report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 68 children in the US is diagnosed with ASDs. Although ASD-related diagnostics and the knowledge of ASD-associated genetic abnormalities have improved in recent years, our understanding of the cellular and molecular pathways disrupted in ASD remains very limited. As a result, no specific therapies or medications are available for individuals with ASDs. In this review, we describe the neurodevelopmental processes that are likely affected in the brains of individuals with ASDs and discuss how patient-specific stem cell-derived neurons and organoids can be used for investigating these processes at the cellular and molecular levels. Finally, we propose a discovery pipeline to be used in the future for identifying the cellular and molecular deficits and developing novel personalized therapies for individuals with idiopathic ASDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guang Yang
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Alex Shcheglovitov
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Crespi BJ. Comparative psychopharmacology of autism and psychotic-affective disorders suggests new targets for treatment. Evol Med Public Health 2019; 2019:149-168. [PMID: 31548888 PMCID: PMC6748779 DOI: 10.1093/emph/eoz022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The first treatments showing effectiveness for some psychiatric disorders, such as lithium for bipolar disorder and chlorpromazine for schizophrenia, were discovered by accident. Currently, psychiatric drug design is seen as a scientific enterprise, limited though it remains by the complexity of brain development and function. Relatively few novel and effective drugs have, however, been developed for many years. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate how evolutionary biology can provide a useful framework for psychiatric drug development. The framework is based on a diametrical nature of autism, compared with psychotic-affective disorders (mainly schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and depression). This paradigm follows from two inferences: (i) risks and phenotypes of human psychiatric disorders derive from phenotypes that have evolved along the human lineage and (ii) biological variation is bidirectional (e.g. higher vs lower, faster vs slower, etc.), such that dysregulation of psychological traits varies in two opposite ways. In this context, the author review the evidence salient to the hypothesis that autism and psychotic-affective disorders represent diametrical disorders in terms of current, proposed and potential psychopharmacological treatments. Studies of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, the PI3K pathway, the NMDA receptor, kynurenic acid metabolism, agmatine metabolism, levels of the endocannabinoid anandamide, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, and other treatments, demonstrate evidence of diametric effects in autism spectrum disorders and phenotypes compared with psychotic-affective disorders and phenotypes. These findings yield insights into treatment mechanisms and the development of new pharmacological therapies, as well as providing an explanation for the longstanding puzzle of antagonism between epilepsy and psychosis. Lay Summary: Consideration of autism and schizophrenia as caused by opposite alterations to brain development and function leads to novel suggestions for pharmacological treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bernard J Crespi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
[Research advances in the role of mTOR signaling pathway in autism spectrum disorder]. ZHONGGUO DANG DAI ER KE ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PEDIATRICS 2019; 21. [PMID: 31315775 PMCID: PMC7389111 DOI: 10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2019.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is an intracellular signaling pathway molecule which regulates various fundamental physiological processes. The mTOR signaling pathway plays an important role in synaptic plasticity, information transmission and processing, and neuroregulation. Dysregulation of the mTOR signaling pathway is generally considered to be related to the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD); meanwhile, the mTOR inhibitor can ameliorate the symptoms of ASD. The role of mTOR in the pathogenesis of ASD is summarized in this article to provide a theoretical basis for targeted therapy of ASD.
Collapse
|
31
|
Szczurkowska J, Pischedda F, Pinto B, Managò F, Haas CA, Summa M, Bertorelli R, Papaleo F, Schäfer MK, Piccoli G, Cancedda L. NEGR1 and FGFR2 cooperatively regulate cortical development and core behaviours related to autism disorders in mice. Brain 2019; 141:2772-2794. [PMID: 30059965 PMCID: PMC6113639 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awy190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders are neurodevelopmental conditions with diverse aetiologies, all characterized by common core symptoms such as impaired social skills and communication, as well as repetitive behaviour. Cell adhesion molecules, receptor tyrosine kinases and associated downstream signalling have been strongly implicated in both neurodevelopment and autism spectrum disorders. We found that downregulation of the cell adhesion molecule NEGR1 or the receptor tyrosine kinase fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) similarly affects neuronal migration and spine density during mouse cortical development in vivo and results in impaired core behaviours related to autism spectrum disorders. Mechanistically, NEGR1 physically interacts with FGFR2 and modulates FGFR2-dependent extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and protein kinase B (AKT) signalling by decreasing FGFR2 degradation from the plasma membrane. Accordingly, FGFR2 overexpression rescues all defects due to Negr1 knockdown in vivo. Negr1 knockout mice present phenotypes similar to Negr1-downregulated animals. These data indicate that NEGR1 and FGFR2 cooperatively regulate cortical development and suggest a role for defective NEGR1-FGFR2 complex and convergent downstream ERK and AKT signalling in autism spectrum disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Szczurkowska
- Local Micro-environment and Brain Development Laboratory, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy.,Università degli Studi di Genova, Via Balbi, 5, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Pischedda
- Laboratory of Biology of Synapse. Center for Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Bruno Pinto
- Local Micro-environment and Brain Development Laboratory, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy.,Bio@SNS, Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Managò
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy
| | - Carola A Haas
- Experimental Epilepsy Research, Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Maria Summa
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy
| | - Rosalia Bertorelli
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesco Papaleo
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy
| | - Michael K Schäfer
- Department of Anesthesiology and Focus Program Translational Neurosciences, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Germany
| | - Giovanni Piccoli
- Laboratory of Biology of Synapse. Center for Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy.,Dulbecco Telethon Institute, Varese Street 16b - 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Cancedda
- Local Micro-environment and Brain Development Laboratory, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy.,Dulbecco Telethon Institute, Varese Street 16b - 00185 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Early Clinical Predictors of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Infants with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex: Results from the EPISTOP Study. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8060788. [PMID: 31163675 PMCID: PMC6617179 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8060788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 05/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is highly prevalent in subjects with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC), but we are not still able to reliably predict which infants will develop ASD. This study aimed to identify the early clinical markers of ASD and/or developmental delay (DD) in infants with an early diagnosis of TSC. We prospectively evaluated 82 infants with TSC (6–24 months of age), using a detailed neuropsychological assessment (Bayley Scales of Infant Development—BSID, and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule—ADOS), in the context of the EPISTOP (Long-term, prospective study evaluating clinical and molecular biomarkers of EPIleptogenesiS in a genetic model of epilepsy—Tuberous SclerOsis ComPlex) project (NCT02098759). Normal cognitive developmental quotient at 12 months excluded subsequent ASD (negative predictive value 100%). The total score of ADOS at 12 months clearly differentiated children with a future diagnosis of ASD from children without (p = 0.012). Atypical socio-communication behaviors (p < 0.001) were more frequently observed than stereotyped/repetitive behaviors in children with ASD at 24 months. The combined use of BSID and ADOS can reliably identify infants with TSC with a higher risk for ASD at age 6–12 months, allowing for clinicians to target the earliest symptoms of abnormal neurodevelopment with tailored intervention strategies.
Collapse
|
33
|
Metabotropic functions of the NMDA receptor and an evolving rationale for exploring NR2A-selective positive allosteric modulators for the treatment of autism spectrum disorder. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2019; 90:142-160. [PMID: 30481555 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
NMDA receptors are widely distributed throughout the brain and major therapeutic challenges include targeting specific NMDA receptor subtypes while preserving spatial and temporal specificity during their activation. The NR2A-subunit containing NMDA receptor is implicated in regulating synchronous oscillatory output of cortical pyramidal neurons, which may be disturbed in clinical presentations of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Because NR2A-selective positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) preserve spatial and temporal selectivity while activating this subpopulation of receptors, they represent a promising strategy to address neocortical circuit abnormalities in ASD. In addition to promoting Ca2+ entry and membrane depolarization, diverse metabotropic effects of NMDA receptor activation on signal transduction pathways occur within the cell, some of which depend on alignment of protein binding partners. For example, NMDA receptor agonist interventions attenuate impaired sociability in transgenic mice with 'loss-of-function' mutations of the Shank family of scaffolding proteins, which highlights the necessity of a carefully orchestrated alignment of protein binding partners in the excitatory synapse. The current Review considers metabotropic functions of the NMDA receptor that could play a role in sociability and the pathogenesis of ASD (e.g., mTOR signaling), in addition to its more familiar ionotropic functions, and provides a rationale for therapeutic exploration of NR2A-selective PAMs.
Collapse
|
34
|
Rosina E, Battan B, Siracusano M, Di Criscio L, Hollis F, Pacini L, Curatolo P, Bagni C. Disruption of mTOR and MAPK pathways correlates with severity in idiopathic autism. Transl Psychiatry 2019; 9:50. [PMID: 30705255 PMCID: PMC6355879 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-018-0335-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 11/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular signature underlying autism spectrum disorder remains largely unknown. This study identifies differential expression of mTOR and MAPK pathways in patients affected by mild and severe idiopathic autism. A total of 55 subjects were enrolled, of which 22 were typically developing individuals and 33 were patients aged between 3 and 11 years, with autism spectrum disorder. A detailed history, including physical examination, developmental evaluation, mental health history and autism diagnostic observation schedule were performed for each patient. Components of the mTOR and MAPK signalling pathways were analysed from peripheral blood at the protein level. Patients were then stratified according to their clinical phenotypes, and the molecular profiling was analysed in relation to the degree of autism severity. In this cohort of patients, we identified increased activity of mTOR and the MAPK pathways, key regulators of synaptogenesis and protein synthesis. Specifically, rpS6, p-eIF4E, TSC1 and p-MNK1 expression discriminated patients according to their clinical diagnosis, suggesting that components of protein synthesis signalling pathways might constitute a molecular signature of clinical severity in autism spectrum disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Rosina
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Battan
- Department of Systems Medicine, Division of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, University Hospital of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Siracusano
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Lorena Di Criscio
- Department of Systems Medicine, Division of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, University Hospital of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Fiona Hollis
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Laura Pacini
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Curatolo
- Department of Systems Medicine, Division of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, University Hospital of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Bagni
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
van Sadelhoff JHJ, Perez Pardo P, Wu J, Garssen J, van Bergenhenegouwen J, Hogenkamp A, Hartog A, Kraneveld AD. The Gut-Immune-Brain Axis in Autism Spectrum Disorders; A Focus on Amino Acids. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:247. [PMID: 31057483 PMCID: PMC6477881 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a range of neurodevelopmental conditions that affect communication and social behavior. Besides social deficits, systemic inflammation, gastrointestinal immune-related problems, and changes in the gut microbiota composition are characteristic for people with ASD. Animal models showed that these characteristics can induce ASD-associated behavior, suggesting an intimate relationship between the microbiota, gut, immune system and the brain in ASD. Multiple factors can contribute to the development of ASD, but mutations leading to enhanced activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) are reported frequently. Hyperactivation of mTOR leads to deficits in the communication between neurons in the brain and to immune impairments. Hence, mTOR might be a critical factor linking the gut-brain-immune axis in ASD. Pharmacological inhibition of mTOR is shown to improve ASD-associated behavior and immune functions, however, the clinical use is limited due to severe side reactions. Interestingly, studies have shown that mTOR activation can also be modified by nutritional stimuli, in particular by amino acids. Moreover, specific amino acids are demonstrated to inhibit inflammation, improve gut barrier function and to modify the microbiota composition. In this review we will discuss the gut-brain-immune axis in ASD and explore the potential of amino acids as a treatment option for ASD, either via modification of mTOR activity, the immune system or the gut microbiota composition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joris H. J. van Sadelhoff
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Danone Nutricia Research, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Paula Perez Pardo
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Jiangbo Wu
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Department of Symptom Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Johan Garssen
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Danone Nutricia Research, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Jeroen van Bergenhenegouwen
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Danone Nutricia Research, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Astrid Hogenkamp
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Anita Hartog
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Danone Nutricia Research, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Aletta D. Kraneveld
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Veterinary Pharmacology, Institute for Risk Assessment Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Aletta D. Kraneveld
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Solov'eva NV, Kuvshinova YV, Kichuk IV, Chausova SV, Vil'yanov VB, Kremenitskaya SA. [Dichotomous classification of autism spectrum disorders: syndromal and non-syndromal forms]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2018; 118:107-112. [PMID: 29863703 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro201811841107-112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In foreign literature on research into the etiopathogenesis of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), the division of this group of diseases into two forms is getting more and more frequent. These two forms are 'syndromal' and 'non-syndromal' forms of autistic disorders. The literature review aims to cover the issues of the dichotomous classification of ASDs based on the genetic and molecular psychiatric views on the etiopathogenesis of this group of diseases. It also covers the purpose of this classification, the opportunities of its usage in routine clinical practice and the network resources, which allow classifying a form of ASD correctly. Special attention is paid to the multidisciplinary approach to dichotomous classification and its difference from the clinical view on the systematization of autism and the importance of this method for selection of target therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N V Solov'eva
- Scientific Centre of Personalized Psychiatry, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ya V Kuvshinova
- Scientific Centre of Personalized Psychiatry, Moscow, Russia
| | - I V Kichuk
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - S V Chausova
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - V B Vil'yanov
- Scientific Centre of Personalized Psychiatry, Moscow, Russia
| | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
mTOR Signaling and Neural Stem Cells: The Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Model. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051474. [PMID: 29772672 PMCID: PMC5983755 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Revised: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), a serine-threonine kinase, plays a pivotal role in regulating cell growth and proliferation. Notably, a great deal of evidence indicates that mTOR signaling is also crucial in controlling proliferation and differentiation of several stem cell compartments. Consequently, dysregulation of the mTOR pathway is often associated with a variety of disease, such as cancer and metabolic and genetic disorders. For instance, hyperactivation of mTORC1 in neural stem cells (NSCs) is associated with the insurgence of neurological manifestation characterizing tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). In this review, we survey the recent contributions of TSC physiopathology studies to understand the role of mTOR signaling in both neurogenesis and tumorigenesis and discuss how these new insights can contribute to developing new therapeutic strategies for neurological diseases and cancer.
Collapse
|
38
|
Teotia P, Van Hook MJ, Wichman CS, Allingham RR, Hauser MA, Ahmad I. Modeling Glaucoma: Retinal Ganglion Cells Generated from Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells of Patients with SIX6 Risk Allele Show Developmental Abnormalities. Stem Cells 2017; 35:2239-2252. [PMID: 28792678 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma represents a group of multifactorial diseases with a unifying pathology of progressive retinal ganglion cell (RGC) degeneration, causing irreversible vision loss. To test the hypothesis that RGCs are intrinsically vulnerable in glaucoma, we have developed an in vitro model using the SIX6 risk allele carrying glaucoma patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) for generating functional RGCs. Here, we demonstrate that the efficiency of RGC generation by SIX6 risk allele iPSCs is significantly lower than iPSCs-derived from healthy, age- and sex-matched controls. The decrease in the number of RGC generation is accompanied by repressed developmental expression of RGC regulatory genes. The SIX6 risk allele RGCs display short and simple neurites, reduced expression of guidance molecules, and immature electrophysiological signature. In addition, these cells have higher expression of glaucoma-associated genes, CDKN2A and CDKN2B, suggesting an early onset of the disease phenotype. Consistent with the developmental abnormalities, the SIX6 risk allele RGCs display global dysregulation of genes which map on developmentally relevant biological processes for RGC differentiation and signaling pathways such as mammalian target of rapamycin that integrate diverse functions for differentiation, metabolism, and survival. The results suggest that SIX6 influences different stages of RGC differentiation and their survival; therefore, alteration in SIX6 function due to the risk allele may lead to cellular and molecular abnormalities. These abnormalities, if carried into adulthood, may make RGCs vulnerable in glaucoma. Stem Cells 2017;35:2239-2252.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Teotia
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Matthew J Van Hook
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Christopher S Wichman
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - R Rand Allingham
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michael A Hauser
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Iqbal Ahmad
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| |
Collapse
|