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Mosbach V, Puccio H. A multiple animal and cellular models approach to study frataxin deficiency in Friedreich Ataxia. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2024; 1871:119809. [PMID: 39134123 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2024.119809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Friedreich's ataxia (FA) is one of the most frequent inherited recessive ataxias characterized by a progressive sensory and spinocerebellar ataxia. The main causative mutation is a GAA repeat expansion in the first intron of the frataxin (FXN) gene which leads to a transcriptional silencing of the gene resulting in a deficit in FXN protein. The nature of the mutation (an unstable GAA expansion), as well as the multi-systemic nature of the disease (with neural and non-neural sites affected) make the generation of models for Friedreich's ataxia quite challenging. Over the years, several cellular and animal models for FA have been developed. These models are all complementary and possess their own strengths to investigate different aspects of the disease, such as the epigenetics of the locus or the pathophysiology of the disease, as well as being used to developed novel therapeutic approaches. This review will explore the recent advancements in the different mammalian models developed for FA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentine Mosbach
- Institut NeuroMyoGene-PGNM UCBL-CNRS UMR5261 INSERM U1315, Lyon, France
| | - Hélène Puccio
- Institut NeuroMyoGene-PGNM UCBL-CNRS UMR5261 INSERM U1315, Lyon, France.
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Brogyanyi T, Kejík Z, Veselá K, Dytrych P, Hoskovec D, Masařik M, Babula P, Kaplánek R, Přibyl T, Zelenka J, Ruml T, Vokurka M, Martásek P, Jakubek M. Iron chelators as mitophagy agents: Potential and limitations. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 179:117407. [PMID: 39265234 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117407] [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: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial autophagy (mitophagy) is very important process for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis, functionality and survival. Its dysregulation is associated with high risk and progression numerous serious diseases (e.g., oncological, neurodegenerative and cardiovascular ones). Therefore, targeting mitophagy mechanisms is very hot topic in the biological and medicinal research. The interrelationships between the regulation of mitophagy and iron homeostasis are now becoming apparent. In short, mitochondria are central point for the regulation of iron homeostasis, but change in intracellular cheatable iron level can induce/repress mitophagy. In this review, relationships between iron homeostasis and mitophagy are thoroughly discussed and described. Also, therapeutic applicability of mitophagy chelators in the context of individual diseases is comprehensively and critically evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tereza Brogyanyi
- BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Vestec 252 50, Czech Republic; Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague 120 00, Czech Republic; Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, U Nemocnice 5, 1, Prague 28 53, Czech Republic
| | - Zdeněk Kejík
- BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Vestec 252 50, Czech Republic; Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague 120 00, Czech Republic
| | - Kateřina Veselá
- BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Vestec 252 50, Czech Republic; Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague 120 00, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Dytrych
- 1st Department of Surgery-Department of Abdominal, Thoracic Surgery and Traumatology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, U Nemocnice 2, Prague 121 08, Czech Republic
| | - David Hoskovec
- 1st Department of Surgery-Department of Abdominal, Thoracic Surgery and Traumatology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, U Nemocnice 2, Prague 121 08, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Masařik
- BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Vestec 252 50, Czech Republic; Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague 120 00, Czech Republic; Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno CZ-625 00, Czech Republic; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno 625 00, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Babula
- Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno CZ-625 00, Czech Republic
| | - Robert Kaplánek
- BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Vestec 252 50, Czech Republic; Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague 120 00, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Přibyl
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Prague 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Zelenka
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Prague 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Ruml
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Prague 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Vokurka
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, U Nemocnice 5, 1, Prague 28 53, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Martásek
- Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague 120 00, Czech Republic
| | - Milan Jakubek
- BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Vestec 252 50, Czech Republic; Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague 120 00, Czech Republic.
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Sanz-Alcázar A, Portillo-Carrasquer M, Delaspre F, Pazos-Gil M, Tamarit J, Ros J, Cabiscol E. Deciphering the ferroptosis pathways in dorsal root ganglia of Friedreich ataxia models. The role of LKB1/AMPK, KEAP1, and GSK3β in the impairment of the NRF2 response. Redox Biol 2024; 76:103339. [PMID: 39243573 PMCID: PMC11408871 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103339] [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: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Friedreich ataxia (FA) is a rare neurodegenerative disease caused by decreased levels of the mitochondrial protein frataxin. Frataxin has been related in iron homeostasis, energy metabolism, and oxidative stress. Ferroptosis has recently been shown to be involved in FA cellular degeneration; however, its role in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) sensory neurons, the cells that are affected the most and the earliest, is mostly unknown. In this study, we used primary cultures of frataxin-deficient DRG neurons as well as DRG from the FXNI151F mouse model to study ferroptosis and its regulatory pathways. A lack of frataxin induced upregulation of transferrin receptor 1 and decreased ferritin and mitochondrial iron accumulation, a source of oxidative stress. However, there was impaired activation of NRF2, a key transcription factor involved in the antioxidant response pathway. Decreased total and nuclear NRF2 explains the downregulation of both SLC7A11 (a member of the system Xc, which transports cystine required for glutathione synthesis) and glutathione peroxidase 4, responsible for increased lipid peroxidation, the main markers of ferroptosis. Such dysregulation could be due to the increase in KEAP1 and the activation of GSK3β, which promote cytosolic localization and degradation of NRF2. Moreover, there was a deficiency in the LKB1/AMPK pathway, which would also impair NRF2 activity. AMPK acts as a positive regulator of NRF2 and it is activated by the upstream kinase LKB1. The levels of LKB1 were reduced when frataxin decreased, in agreement with reduced pAMPK (Thr172), the active form of AMPK. SIRT1, a known activator of LKB1, was also reduced when frataxin decreased. MT-6378, an AMPK activator, restored NRF2 levels, increased GPX4 levels and reduced lipid peroxidation. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that frataxin deficiency in DRG neurons disrupts iron homeostasis and the intricate regulation of molecular pathways affecting NRF2 activation and the cellular response to oxidative stress, leading to ferroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arabela Sanz-Alcázar
- Departament de Ciències Mèdiques Bàsiques, IRBLleida, Universitat de Lleida, Catalonia, Spain.
| | | | - Fabien Delaspre
- Departament de Ciències Mèdiques Bàsiques, IRBLleida, Universitat de Lleida, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Maria Pazos-Gil
- Departament de Ciències Mèdiques Bàsiques, IRBLleida, Universitat de Lleida, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Jordi Tamarit
- Departament de Ciències Mèdiques Bàsiques, IRBLleida, Universitat de Lleida, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Joaquim Ros
- Departament de Ciències Mèdiques Bàsiques, IRBLleida, Universitat de Lleida, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Elisa Cabiscol
- Departament de Ciències Mèdiques Bàsiques, IRBLleida, Universitat de Lleida, Catalonia, Spain.
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Chang KH, Chen CM. The Role of NRF2 in Trinucleotide Repeat Expansion Disorders. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:649. [PMID: 38929088 PMCID: PMC11200942 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13060649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Trinucleotide repeat expansion disorders, a diverse group of neurodegenerative diseases, are caused by abnormal expansions within specific genes. These expansions trigger a cascade of cellular damage, including protein aggregation and abnormal RNA binding. A key contributor to this damage is oxidative stress, an imbalance of reactive oxygen species that harms cellular components. This review explores the interplay between oxidative stress and the NRF2 pathway in these disorders. NRF2 acts as the master regulator of the cellular antioxidant response, orchestrating the expression of enzymes that combat oxidative stress. Trinucleotide repeat expansion disorders often exhibit impaired NRF2 signaling, resulting in inadequate responses to excessive ROS production. NRF2 activation has been shown to upregulate antioxidative gene expression, effectively alleviating oxidative stress damage. NRF2 activators, such as omaveloxolone, vatiquinone, curcumin, sulforaphane, dimethyl fumarate, and resveratrol, demonstrate neuroprotective effects by reducing oxidative stress in experimental cell and animal models of these diseases. However, translating these findings into successful clinical applications requires further research. In this article, we review the literature supporting the role of NRF2 in the pathogenesis of these diseases and the potential therapeutics of NRF2 activators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Hsuan Chang
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, Kueishan, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Chiung-Mei Chen
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, Kueishan, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
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Slade L, Deane CS, Szewczyk NJ, Etheridge T, Whiteman M. Hydrogen sulfide supplementation as a potential treatment for primary mitochondrial diseases. Pharmacol Res 2024; 203:107180. [PMID: 38599468 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107180] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Primary mitochondrial diseases (PMD) are amongst the most common inborn errors of metabolism causing fatal outcomes within the first decade of life. With marked heterogeneity in both inheritance patterns and physiological manifestations, these conditions present distinct challenges for targeted drug therapy, where effective therapeutic countermeasures remain elusive within the clinic. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S)-based therapeutics may offer a new option for patient treatment, having been proposed as a conserved mitochondrial substrate and post-translational regulator across species, displaying therapeutic effects in age-related mitochondrial dysfunction and neurodegenerative models of mitochondrial disease. H2S can stimulate mitochondrial respiration at sites downstream of common PMD-defective subunits, augmenting energy production, mitochondrial function and reducing cell death. Here, we highlight the primary signalling mechanisms of H2S in mitochondria relevant for PMD and outline key cytoprotective proteins/pathways amenable to post-translational restoration via H2S-mediated persulfidation. The mechanisms proposed here, combined with the advent of potent mitochondria-targeted sulfide delivery molecules, could provide a framework for H2S as a countermeasure for PMD disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Slade
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, St. Luke's Campus, Exeter EX1 2LU, UK; Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften-ISAS-e.V, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Colleen S Deane
- Human Development & Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | - Nathaniel J Szewczyk
- Medical Research Council Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, Royal Derby Hospital, University of Nottingham, Derby DE22 3DT, United Kingdom; Ohio Musculoskeletal and Neurologic Institute, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio 45701, Greece
| | - Timothy Etheridge
- Public Health and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX1 2LU, United Kingdom.
| | - Matthew Whiteman
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, St. Luke's Campus, Exeter EX1 2LU, UK.
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Gunther K, Lynch DR. Pharmacotherapeutic strategies for Friedreich Ataxia: a review of the available data. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2024; 25:529-539. [PMID: 38622054 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2024.2343782] [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: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is a rare autosomal recessive disease, marked by loss of coordination as well as impaired neurological, endocrine, orthopedic, and cardiac function. There are many symptomatic medications for FRDA, and many clinical trials have been performed, but only one FDA-approved medication exists. AREAS COVERED The relative absence of the frataxin protein (FXN) in FRDA causes mitochondrial dysfunction, resulting in clinical manifestations. Currently, the only approved treatment for FRDA is an Nrf2 activator called omaveloxolone (Skyclarys). Patients with FRDA also rely on various symptomatic medications for treatment. Because there is only one approved medication for FRDA, clinical trials continue to advance in FRDA. Although some trials have not met their endpoints, many current and upcoming clinical trials provide exciting possibilities for the treatment of FRDA. EXPERT OPINION The approval of omaveloxolone provides a major advance in FRDA therapeutics. Although well tolerated, it is not curative. Reversal of deficient frataxin levels with gene therapy, protein replacement, or epigenetic approaches provides the most likely prospect for enduring, disease-modifying therapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Gunther
- Friedreich Ataxia Program, Division of Neurology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - David R Lynch
- Friedreich Ataxia Program, Division of Neurology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Dar NJ, John U, Bano N, Khan S, Bhat SA. Oxytosis/Ferroptosis in Neurodegeneration: the Underlying Role of Master Regulator Glutathione Peroxidase 4 (GPX4). Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:1507-1526. [PMID: 37725216 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03646-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Oxytosis/ferroptosis is an iron-dependent oxidative form of cell death triggered by lethal accumulation of phospholipid hydroperoxides (PLOOHs) in membranes. Failure of the intricate PLOOH repair system is a principle cause of ferroptotic cell death. Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) is distinctly vital for converting PLOOHs in membranes to non-toxic alcohols. As such, GPX4 is known as the master regulator of oxytosis/ferroptosis. Ferroptosis has been implicated in a number of disorders such as neurodegenerative diseases (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and Huntington's disease (HD), etc.), ischemia/reperfusion injury, and kidney degeneration. Reduced function of GPX4 is frequently observed in degenerative disorders. In this study, we examine how diminished GPX4 function may be a critical event in triggering oxytosis/ferroptosis to perpetuate or initiate the neurodegenerative diseases and assess the possible therapeutic importance of oxytosis/ferroptosis in neurodegenerative disorders. These discoveries are important for advancing our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases because oxytosis/ferroptosis may provide a new target to slow the course of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nawab John Dar
- School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA.
| | - Urmilla John
- School of Studies in Neuroscience, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, India
- School of Studies in Zoology, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, India
| | - Nargis Bano
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, U.P, India
| | - Sameera Khan
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, U.P, India
| | - Shahnawaz Ali Bhat
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, U.P, India.
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Lynch DR, Perlman S, Schadt K. Omaveloxolone for the treatment of Friedreich ataxia: clinical trial results and practical considerations. Expert Rev Neurother 2024; 24:251-258. [PMID: 38269532 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2024.2310617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Omavaloxolone, an NRF2 activator, recently became the first drug approved specifically for the treatment of Friedreich ataxia (FRDA). This landmark achievement provides a background for a review of the detailed data leading to the approval. AREAS COVERED The authors review the data from the 4 major articles on FRDA in the context of the authors' considerable (>1000 patients) experience in treating individuals with FRDA. The data is presented in the context not only of its scientific meaning but also in the practical context of therapy in FRDA. EXPERT OPINION Omaveloxolone provides a significant advance in the treatment of FRDA that is likely to be beneficial in a majority of the FRDA population. The data suggesting a benefit is consistent, and adverse issues are relatively modest. The major remaining questions are the subgroups that are most responsive and how long the beneficial effects will remain significant in FRDA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Lynch
- Friedrech Ataxia Program, Division of Neurology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Susan Perlman
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kim Schadt
- Friedreich Ataxia Program, Division of Neurology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Edzeamey FJ, Ramchunder Z, Pourzand C, Anjomani Virmouni S. Emerging antioxidant therapies in Friedreich's ataxia. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1359618. [PMID: 38379897 PMCID: PMC10876797 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1359618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) is a rare childhood neurologic disorder, affecting 1 in 50,000 Caucasians. The disease is caused by the abnormal expansion of the GAA repeat sequence in intron 1 of the FXN gene, leading to the reduced expression of the mitochondrial protein frataxin. The disease is characterised by progressive neurodegeneration, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, diabetes mellitus and musculoskeletal deformities. The reduced expression of frataxin has been suggested to result in the downregulation of endogenous antioxidant defence mechanisms and mitochondrial bioenergetics, and the increase in mitochondrial iron accumulation thereby leading to oxidative stress. The confirmation of oxidative stress as one of the pathological signatures of FRDA led to the search for antioxidants which can be used as therapeutic modality. Based on this observation, antioxidants with different mechanisms of action have been explored for FRDA therapy since the last two decades. In this review, we bring forth all antioxidants which have been investigated for FRDA therapy and have been signed off for clinical trials. We summarise their various target points in FRDA disease pathway, their performances during clinical trials and possible factors which might have accounted for their failure or otherwise during clinical trials. We also discuss the limitation of the studies completed and propose possible strategies for combinatorial therapy of antioxidants to generate synergistic effect in FRDA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred Jonathan Edzeamey
- Ataxia Research Group, Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences (CHMLS), Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
| | - Zenouska Ramchunder
- Ataxia Research Group, Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences (CHMLS), Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
| | - Charareh Pourzand
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
- Centre for Therapeutic Innovation, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Anjomani Virmouni
- Ataxia Research Group, Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences (CHMLS), Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
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Pilotto F, Chellapandi DM, Puccio H. Omaveloxolone: a groundbreaking milestone as the first FDA-approved drug for Friedreich ataxia. Trends Mol Med 2024; 30:117-125. [PMID: 38272714 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Friedreich ataxia (FA) is an inherited autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disease (NDD) characterized primarily by progressive sensory and spinocerebellar ataxia associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. FA is due to an intronic GAA repeat expansion within the frataxin gene (FXN) leading to reduced levels of frataxin (FXN) which causes mitochondrial dysfunction, production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and altered iron metabolism. To date there is no resolutive cure for FA; however, the FDA has recently approved omaveloxolone - a potent activator of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) - as the first treatment for FA. We discuss herein the urgency to find a resolutive cure for NDDs that will most probably be achieved via combinatorial therapy targeting multiple disease pathways, and how omavaloxolone serves as an example for future treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Pilotto
- Institut NeuroMyoGène (INMG), Unité Physiopathologie et Génétique du Neurone et du Muscle, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 CNRS UMR 5261, Inserm U1315, Lyon, France
| | - Deepika M Chellapandi
- Institut NeuroMyoGène (INMG), Unité Physiopathologie et Génétique du Neurone et du Muscle, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 CNRS UMR 5261, Inserm U1315, Lyon, France
| | - Hélène Puccio
- Institut NeuroMyoGène (INMG), Unité Physiopathologie et Génétique du Neurone et du Muscle, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 CNRS UMR 5261, Inserm U1315, Lyon, France.
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Smith FM, Kosman DJ. Loss of filamentous actin, tight junction protein expression, and paracellular barrier integrity in frataxin-deficient human brain microvascular endothelial cells-implications for blood-brain barrier physiology in Friedreich's ataxia. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 10:1299201. [PMID: 38274097 PMCID: PMC10808331 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1299201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Friedreich's Ataxia (FRDA) is the most prevalent inherited ataxia. FRDA results from loss of Frataxin (FXN), an essential mitochondrial iron trafficking protein. FRDA starts with an early burst of neurodegeneration of the dorsal root ganglion and cerebellar dentate nuclei, followed by progressive brain iron accumulation in the latter. End stage disease includes cardiac fibrosis that contributes to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The microvasculature plays an essential barrier role in both brain and heart homeostasis, thus an investigation of this tissue system in FRDA is essential to the delineation of the cellular dysfunction in this genetic disorder. Previous reports have identified cytoskeletal alterations in non-barrier forming FRDA cell models, but physiological consequences are limited. Methods: We investigated brain microvascular endothelial cell integrity in FRDA in a model of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). We have knocked down FXN in immortalized human brain microvascular endothelial cells (hBMVEC), which compose the microcapillaries of the BBB, by using shRNA. We confirmed known cellular pathophysiologies of FXN-knockdown including decreased energy metabolism, markers of oxidative stress, and increased cell size. Results: We investigated cytoskeletal architecture, identifying decreased filamentous actin and Occludin and Claudin-5 tight junction protein expression in shFXN hBMVECs. This was consistent with decreased transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) and increased paracellular tracer flux during early barrier formation. shFXN hBMVEC start with only 67% barrier integrity of the controls, and flux a paracellular tracer at 800% of physiological levels. Discussion: We identified that insufficient FXN levels in the hBMVEC BBB model causes changes in cytoskeletal architecture and tight junction protein abundance, co-incident with increased barrier permeability. Changes in the integrity of the BBB may be related to patient brain iron accumulation, neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, and stroke. Furthermore, our findings implicate other barrier cells, e.g., the cardiac microvasculature, loci of disease pathology in FRDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances M. Smith
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Department of Biochemistry, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States
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Luffarelli R, Panarello L, Quatrana A, Tiano F, Fortuni S, Rufini A, Malisan F, Testi R, Condò I. Interferon Gamma Enhances Cytoprotective Pathways via Nrf2 and MnSOD Induction in Friedreich's Ataxia Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12687. [PMID: 37628866 PMCID: PMC10454386 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612687] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) is a rare monogenic disease characterized by multisystem, slowly progressive degeneration. Because of the genetic defect in a non-coding region of FXN gene, FRDA cells exhibit severe deficit of frataxin protein levels. Hence, FRDA pathophysiology is characterized by a plethora of metabolic disruptions related to iron metabolism, mitochondrial homeostasis and oxidative stress. Importantly, an impairment of the antioxidant defences exacerbates the oxidative damage. This appears closely associated with the disablement of key antioxidant proteins, such as the transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and the mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (MnSOD). The cytokine interferon gamma (IFN-γ) has been shown to increase frataxin expression in FRDA cells and to improve functional deficits in FRDA mice. Currently, IFN-γ represents a potential therapy under clinical evaluation in FRDA patients. Here, we show that IFN-γ induces a rapid expression of Nrf2 and MnSOD in different cell types, including FRDA patient-derived fibroblasts. Our data indicate that IFN-γ signals two separate pathways to enhance Nrf2 and MnSOD levels in FRDA fibroblasts. MnSOD expression increased through an early transcriptional regulation, whereas the levels of Nrf2 are induced by a post-transcriptional mechanism. We demonstrate that the treatment of FRDA fibroblasts with IFN-γ stimulates a non-canonical Nrf2 activation pathway through p21 and potentiates antioxidant responses under exposure to hydrogen peroxide. Moreover, IFN-γ significantly reduced the sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide-induced cell death in FRDA fibroblasts. Collectively, these results indicate the presence of multiple pathways triggered by IFN-γ with therapeutic relevance to FRDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Luffarelli
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.L.); (L.P.); (A.Q.); (F.T.); (S.F.); (A.R.); (F.M.); (R.T.)
| | - Luca Panarello
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.L.); (L.P.); (A.Q.); (F.T.); (S.F.); (A.R.); (F.M.); (R.T.)
| | - Andrea Quatrana
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.L.); (L.P.); (A.Q.); (F.T.); (S.F.); (A.R.); (F.M.); (R.T.)
| | - Francesca Tiano
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.L.); (L.P.); (A.Q.); (F.T.); (S.F.); (A.R.); (F.M.); (R.T.)
| | - Silvia Fortuni
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.L.); (L.P.); (A.Q.); (F.T.); (S.F.); (A.R.); (F.M.); (R.T.)
| | - Alessandra Rufini
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.L.); (L.P.); (A.Q.); (F.T.); (S.F.); (A.R.); (F.M.); (R.T.)
- Departmental Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Florence Malisan
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.L.); (L.P.); (A.Q.); (F.T.); (S.F.); (A.R.); (F.M.); (R.T.)
| | - Roberto Testi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.L.); (L.P.); (A.Q.); (F.T.); (S.F.); (A.R.); (F.M.); (R.T.)
| | - Ivano Condò
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.L.); (L.P.); (A.Q.); (F.T.); (S.F.); (A.R.); (F.M.); (R.T.)
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13
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Tiberi J, Segatto M, Fiorenza MT, La Rosa P. Apparent Opportunities and Hidden Pitfalls: The Conflicting Results of Restoring NRF2-Regulated Redox Metabolism in Friedreich's Ataxia Pre-Clinical Models and Clinical Trials. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11051293. [PMID: 37238963 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) is an autosomal, recessive, inherited neurodegenerative disease caused by the loss of activity of the mitochondrial protein frataxin (FXN), which primarily affects dorsal root ganglia, cerebellum, and spinal cord neurons. The genetic defect consists of the trinucleotide GAA expansion in the first intron of FXN gene, which impedes its transcription. The resulting FXN deficiency perturbs iron homeostasis and metabolism, determining mitochondrial dysfunctions and leading to reduced ATP production, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, and lipid peroxidation. These alterations are exacerbated by the defective functionality of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), a transcription factor acting as a key mediator of the cellular redox signalling and antioxidant response. Because oxidative stress represents a major pathophysiological contributor to FRDA onset and progression, a great effort has been dedicated to the attempt to restore the NRF2 signalling axis. Despite this, the beneficial effects of antioxidant therapies in clinical trials only partly reflect the promising results obtained in preclinical studies conducted in cell cultures and animal models. For these reasons, in this critical review, we overview the outcomes obtained with the administration of various antioxidant compounds and critically analyse the aspects that may have contributed to the conflicting results of preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Tiberi
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
- PhD Program in Behavioral Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Segatto
- Department of Bioscience and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Fiorenza
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Piergiorgio La Rosa
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, 00185 Rome, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00179 Rome, Italy
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14
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Lew SY, Mohd Hisam NS, Phang MWL, Syed Abdul Rahman SN, Poh RYY, Lim SH, Kamaruzzaman MA, Chau SC, Tsui KC, Lim LW, Wong KH. Adenosine Improves Mitochondrial Function and Biogenesis in Friedreich's Ataxia Fibroblasts Following L-Buthionine Sulfoximine-Induced Oxidative Stress. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12040559. [PMID: 37106759 PMCID: PMC10136261 DOI: 10.3390/biology12040559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Adenosine is a nucleoside that is widely distributed in the central nervous system and acts as a central excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. The protective role of adenosine in different pathological conditions and neurodegenerative diseases is mainly mediated by adenosine receptors. However, its potential role in mitigating the deleterious effects of oxidative stress in Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) remains poorly understood. We aimed to investigate the protective effects of adenosine against mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired mitochondrial biogenesis in L-buthionine sulfoximine (BSO)-induced oxidative stress in dermal fibroblasts derived from an FRDA patient. The FRDA fibroblasts were pre-treated with adenosine for 2 h, followed by 12.50 mM BSO to induce oxidative stress. Cells in medium without any treatments or pre-treated with 5 µM idebenone served as the negative and positive controls, respectively. Cell viability, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), aconitase activity, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) level, mitochondrial biogenesis, and associated gene expressions were assessed. We observed disruption of mitochondrial function and biogenesis and alteration in gene expression patterns in BSO-treated FRDA fibroblasts. Pre-treatment with adenosine ranging from 0-600 µM restored MMP, promoted ATP production and mitochondrial biogenesis, and modulated the expression of key metabolic genes, namely nuclear respiratory factor 1 (NRF1), transcription factor A, mitochondrial (TFAM), and NFE2-like bZIP transcription factor 2 (NFE2L2). Our study demonstrated that adenosine targeted mitochondrial defects in FRDA, contributing to improved mitochondrial function and biogenesis, leading to cellular iron homeostasis. Therefore, we suggest a possible therapeutic role for adenosine in FRDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sze Yuen Lew
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | | | - Michael Weng Lok Phang
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | | | - Rozaida Yuen Ying Poh
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Siew Huah Lim
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Amir Kamaruzzaman
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latiff, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Sze Chun Chau
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ka Chun Tsui
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lee Wei Lim
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kah Hui Wong
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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15
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Petrillo S, D’Amico J, Nicita F, Torda C, Vasco G, Bertini ES, Cappa M, Piemonte F. Antioxidant Response in Human X-Linked Adrenoleukodystrophy Fibroblasts. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:2125. [PMID: 36358497 PMCID: PMC9686530 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11112125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Redox imbalance, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammation play a major role in the pathophysiology of X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD), an inherited neurodegenerative disease caused by mutations in the ABCD1 gene, encoding the protein responsible for peroxisomal import and degradation of very long chain fatty acids (VLCFAs). Therefore, VLCFAs accumulate in tissues and plasma, constituting a pathognomonic biomarker for diagnosis. However, the precise role of VLCFA accumulation on the diverse clinical phenotypes of X-ALD and the pathogenic link between VLCFAs and oxidative stress remain currently unclear. This study proposes ferroptosis as a crucial contributor to the disease development and progression. The expression profiles of "GPX4-glutathione" and "NQO1-CoQ10" ferroptosis pathways have been analyzed in fibroblasts of one patient with AMN, the late onset and slowly progressive form of X-ALD, and in two patients with cALD, the cerebral inflammatory demyelinating form of early childhood. Furthermore, as no effective treatments are currently available, especially for the rapidly progressing form of X-ALD (cALD), the efficacy of NAC treatment has also been evaluated to open the way toward novel combined therapies. Our findings demonstrate that lipid peroxides accumulate in X-ALD fibroblasts and ferroptosis-counteracting enzymes are dysregulated, highlighting a different antioxidant response in patients with AMN and cALD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Petrillo
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Jessica D’Amico
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Nicita
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Torda
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Gessica Vasco
- Movement Analysis and Robotics Laboratory (MARLab), Department of Neurorehabilitation and Robotics, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00050 Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico S. Bertini
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Cappa
- Unit of Endocrinology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Fiorella Piemonte
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
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16
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Keita M, McIntyre K, Rodden LN, Schadt K, Lynch DR. Friedreich ataxia: clinical features and new developments. Neurodegener Dis Manag 2022; 12:267-283. [PMID: 35766110 PMCID: PMC9517959 DOI: 10.2217/nmt-2022-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA), a neurodegenerative disease characterized by ataxia and other neurological features, affects 1 in 50,000-100,000 individuals in the USA. However, FRDA also includes cardiac, orthopedic and endocrine dysfunction, giving rise to many secondary disease characteristics. The multifaceted approach for clinical care has necessitated the development of disease-specific clinical care guidelines. New developments in FRDA include the advancement of clinical drug trials targeting the NRF2 pathway and frataxin restoration. Additionally, a novel understanding of gene silencing in FRDA, reflecting a variegated silencing pattern, will have applications to current and future therapeutic interventions. Finally, new perspectives on the neuroanatomy of FRDA and its developmental features will refine the time course and anatomical targeting of novel approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Medina Keita
- Departments of Pediatrics & Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Kellie McIntyre
- Departments of Pediatrics & Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Layne N Rodden
- Departments of Pediatrics & Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Kim Schadt
- Departments of Pediatrics & Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - David R Lynch
- Departments of Pediatrics & Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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17
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Discovery of Therapeutics Targeting Oxidative Stress in Autosomal Recessive Cerebellar Ataxia: A Systematic Review. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15060764. [PMID: 35745683 PMCID: PMC9228961 DOI: 10.3390/ph15060764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxias (ARCAs) are a heterogeneous group of rare neurodegenerative inherited disorders. The resulting motor incoordination and progressive functional disabilities lead to reduced lifespan. There is currently no cure for ARCAs, likely attributed to the lack of understanding of the multifaceted roles of antioxidant defense and the underlying mechanisms. This systematic review aims to evaluate the extant literature on the current developments of therapeutic strategies that target oxidative stress for the management of ARCAs. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct Scopus for relevant peer-reviewed articles published from 1 January 2016 onwards. A total of 28 preclinical studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria for inclusion in this systematic review. We first evaluated the altered cellular processes, abnormal signaling cascades, and disrupted protein quality control underlying the pathogenesis of ARCA. We then examined the current potential therapeutic strategies for ARCAs, including aromatic, organic and pharmacological compounds, gene therapy, natural products, and nanotechnology, as well as their associated antioxidant pathways and modes of action. We then discussed their potential as antioxidant therapeutics for ARCAs, with the long-term view toward their possible translation to clinical practice. In conclusion, our current understanding is that these antioxidant therapies show promise in improving or halting the progression of ARCAs. Tailoring the therapies to specific disease stages could greatly facilitate the management of ARCAs.
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18
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Lee HJ, Park JH, Hoe HS. Idebenone Regulates Aβ and LPS-Induced Neurogliosis and Cognitive Function Through Inhibition of NLRP3 Inflammasome/IL-1β Axis Activation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:749336. [PMID: 35222363 PMCID: PMC8866241 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.749336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Idebenone is an analogue of coenzyme Q10, an electron donor in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, and thus may function as an antioxidant to facilitate mitochondrial function. However, whether idebenone modulates LPS- and Aβ-mediated neuroinflammatory responses and cognitive function in vivo is unknown. The present study explored the effects of idebenone on LPS- or Aβ-mediated neuroinflammation, learning and memory and the underlying molecular mechanisms in wild-type (WT) mice and 5xFAD mice, a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In male and female WT mice, idebenone upregulated neuroprotective NRF2 expression, rescued LPS-induced spatial and recognition memory impairments, and reduced NLRP3 priming and subsequent neuroinflammation. Moreover, idebenone downregulated LPS-mediated neurogliosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and mitochondrial function in BV2 microglial cells and primary astrocytes by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation. In 5xFAD mice, idebenone increased neuroprotective NRF2 expression and improved amyloid beta (Aβ)-induced cognitive dysfunction. Idebenone downregulated Aβ-mediated gliosis and proinflammatory cytokine levels in 5xFAD mice by modulating the vicious NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β neuroinflammation cycle. Taken together, our results suggest that idebenone targets neuroglial NLRP3 inflammasome activation and therefore may have neuroprotective effects and inhibit the pathological progression of neuroinflammation-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Ju Lee
- Department of Neural Development and Disease, Korea Brain Research Institute (KBRI), Daegu, South Korea
| | - Jin-Hee Park
- Department of Neural Development and Disease, Korea Brain Research Institute (KBRI), Daegu, South Korea
| | - Hyang-Sook Hoe
- Department of Neural Development and Disease, Korea Brain Research Institute (KBRI), Daegu, South Korea.,Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, Daegu, South Korea
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19
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Clementi ME, Pizzoferrato M, Bianchetti G, Brancato A, Sampaolese B, Maulucci G, Tringali G. Cytoprotective Effect of Idebenone through Modulation of the Intrinsic Mitochondrial Pathway of Apoptosis in Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells Exposed to Oxidative Stress Induced by Hydrogen Peroxide. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020503. [PMID: 35203712 PMCID: PMC8962354 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Idebenone is a ubiquinone short-chain synthetic analog with antioxidant properties, which is believed to restore mitochondrial ATP synthesis. As such, idebenone is investigated in numerous clinical trials for diseases of mitochondrial aetiology and it is authorized as a drug for the treatment of Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy. Mitochondria of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) are particularly vulnerable to oxidative damage associated with cellular senescence. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore idebenone’s cytoprotective effect and its underlying mechanism. We used a human-RPE cell line (ARPE-19) exposed to idebenone pre-treatment for 24 h followed by conditions inducing H2O2 oxidative damage for a further 24 h. We found that idebenone: (a) ameliorated H2O2-lowered cell viability in the RPE culture; (b) activated Nrf2 signaling pathway by promoting Nrf2 nuclear translocation; (c) increased Bcl-2 protein levels, leaving unmodified those of Bax, thereby reducing the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio; (d) maintained the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) at physiological levels, preserving the functionality of mitochondrial respiratory complexes and counteracting the excessive production of ROS; and (e) reduced mitochondrial cytochrome C-mediated caspase-3 activity. Taken together, our findings show that idebenone protects RPE from oxidative damage by modulating the intrinsic mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis, suggesting its possible role in retinal epitheliopathies associated with mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Elisabetta Clementi
- Institute of Chemical Sciences and Technologies “Giulio Natta” (SCITEC)-CNR, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy; (M.E.C.); (B.S.)
| | - Michela Pizzoferrato
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Health Care Surveillance and Bioethics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCSS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.B.); (G.M.)
| | - Giada Bianchetti
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCSS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.B.); (G.M.)
- Biophysics Section, Neuroscience Department, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Brancato
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties of Excellence “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Beatrice Sampaolese
- Institute of Chemical Sciences and Technologies “Giulio Natta” (SCITEC)-CNR, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy; (M.E.C.); (B.S.)
| | - Giuseppe Maulucci
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCSS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.B.); (G.M.)
- Biophysics Section, Neuroscience Department, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Tringali
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Health Care Surveillance and Bioethics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Biophysics Section, Neuroscience Department, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Largo F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-063-015-4367
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20
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Rufini A, Malisan F, Condò I, Testi R. Drug Repositioning in Friedreich Ataxia. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:814445. [PMID: 35221903 PMCID: PMC8863941 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.814445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Friedreich ataxia is a rare neurodegenerative disorder caused by insufficient levels of the essential mitochondrial protein frataxin. It is a severely debilitating disease that significantly impacts the quality of life of affected patients and reduces their life expectancy, however, an adequate cure is not yet available for patients. Frataxin function, although not thoroughly elucidated, is associated with assembly of iron-sulfur cluster and iron metabolism, therefore insufficient frataxin levels lead to reduced activity of many mitochondrial enzymes involved in the electron transport chain, impaired mitochondrial metabolism, reduced ATP production and inefficient anti-oxidant response. As a consequence, neurons progressively die and patients progressively lose their ability to coordinate movement and perform daily activities. Therapeutic strategies aim at restoring sufficient frataxin levels or at correcting some of the downstream consequences of frataxin deficiency. However, the classical pathways of drug discovery are challenging, require a significant amount of resources and time to reach the final approval, and present a high failure rate. Drug repositioning represents a viable alternative to boost the identification of a therapy, particularly for rare diseases where resources are often limited. In this review we will describe recent efforts aimed at the identification of a therapy for Friedreich ataxia through drug repositioning, and discuss the limitation of such strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Rufini
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
- Fratagene Therapeutics, Rome, Italy
- Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Alessandra Rufini,
| | - Florence Malisan
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Ivano Condò
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Testi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
- Fratagene Therapeutics, Rome, Italy
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21
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Shah S, Dooms MM, Amaral-Garcia S, Igoillo-Esteve M. Current Drug Repurposing Strategies for Rare Neurodegenerative Disorders. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:768023. [PMID: 34992533 PMCID: PMC8724568 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.768023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Rare diseases are life-threatening or chronically debilitating low-prevalent disorders caused by pathogenic mutations or particular environmental insults. Due to their high complexity and low frequency, important gaps still exist in their prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Since new drug discovery is a very costly and time-consuming process, leading pharmaceutical companies show relatively low interest in orphan drug research and development due to the high cost of investments compared to the low market return of the product. Drug repurposing–based approaches appear then as cost- and time-saving strategies for the development of therapeutic opportunities for rare diseases. In this article, we discuss the scientific, regulatory, and economic aspects of the development of repurposed drugs for the treatment of rare neurodegenerative disorders with a particular focus on Huntington’s disease, Friedreich’s ataxia, Wolfram syndrome, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The role of academia, pharmaceutical companies, patient associations, and foundations in the identification of candidate compounds and their preclinical and clinical evaluation will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sweta Shah
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
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22
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Seminotti B, Grings M, Tucci P, Leipnitz G, Saso L. Nuclear Factor Erythroid-2-Related Factor 2 Signaling in the Neuropathophysiology of Inherited Metabolic Disorders. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:785057. [PMID: 34955754 PMCID: PMC8693715 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.785057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited metabolic disorders (IMDs) are rare genetic conditions that affect multiple organs, predominantly the central nervous system. Since treatment for a large number of IMDs is limited, there is an urgent need to find novel therapeutical targets. Nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor that has a key role in controlling the intracellular redox environment by regulating the expression of antioxidant enzymes and several important genes related to redox homeostasis. Considering that oxidative stress along with antioxidant system alterations is a mechanism involved in the neuropathophysiology of many IMDs, this review focuses on the current knowledge about Nrf2 signaling dysregulation observed in this group of disorders characterized by neurological dysfunction. We review here Nrf2 signaling alterations observed in X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy, glutaric acidemia type I, hyperhomocysteinemia, and Friedreich’s ataxia. Additionally, beneficial effects of different Nrf2 activators are shown, identifying a promising target for treatment of patients with these disorders. We expect that this article stimulates research into the investigation of Nrf2 pathway involvement in IMDs and the use of potential pharmacological modulators of this transcription factor to counteract oxidative stress and exert neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Seminotti
- Postgraduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Mateus Grings
- Postgraduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Paolo Tucci
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Guilhian Leipnitz
- Postgraduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Postgraduate Program in Biological Sciences: Physiology, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Liu Y, Cai J, Shen J, Dong W, Xu L, Fang M, Lin Y, Liu J, Ding Y, Qiao T, Li K. SS-31 efficacy in a mouse model of Friedreich ataxia by upregulation of frataxin expression. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 31:176-188. [PMID: 34387346 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is a serious hereditary neurodegenerative disease, mostly accompanied with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, caused by the reduced expression of frataxin (FXN). However, there is still no effective treatment. Our previous studies have shown that SS-31, a mitochondrion-targeted peptide, is capable to upregulate the expression of FXN and improve the mitochondrial function in cells derived from FRDA patients. To further explore the potential of SS-31, we used the GAA expansion-based models, including Y47 and YG8R (Fxn KIKO) mice, primary neurons and macrophages from the mice and cells derived from FRDA patients. After once-daily intraperitoneal injection of 1 mg/kg SS-31 for 1 month, we observed the significant improvement of motor function. The vacuolation in dorsal root ganglia, lesions in dentate nuclei and the lost thickness of myelin sheath of spinal cord were all repaired after SS-31 treatment. In addition, the hypertrophic cardiomyocytes and disarrayed abnormal Purkinje cells were dramatically reduced. Interestingly, we found that SS-31 treatment upregulated FXN expression not only at the translational levels as observed in cell culture but also at mRNA levels in vivo. Consequently, mitochondrial morphology and function were greatly improved in all tested tissues. Importantly, our data provided additional evidence that the maintenance of the therapeutic benefits needed continuous drug administration. Taken together, our findings have demonstrated the effectiveness of SS-31 treatment through the upregulation of FXN in vivo and offer guidance of the potential usage in the clinical application for FRDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Jing Cai
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Jiaqi Shen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Weichen Dong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Li Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Maoxin Fang
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yishan Lin
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jiali Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Yibing Ding
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Tong Qiao
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Kuanyu Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
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Yang W, Thompson B, Kwa FAA. Molecular approaches for the treatment and prevention of Friedreich's ataxia. Drug Discov Today 2021; 27:866-880. [PMID: 34763067 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) is caused by an intronic guanine-adenine-adenine (GAA) trinucleotide expansion in the gene encoding the frataxin protein (FXN). This triggers the transcriptional silencing of the fratxin gene (FXN) and subsequent FXN deficiency in affected cells, which accounts for the multisystemic symptoms of this condition. Current management strategies aim for symptomatic relief and no treatments can prevent disease onset or progression. Thus, research efforts have focused on targeting the molecular pathways that silence FXN and downstream pathological processes. However, progression of potential therapies into clinical use has been hindered by inconclusive clinical trials because of the small patient sample size associated with the low prevalence of this condition. Here, we discuss various molecular approaches and explore their therapeutic potential to alter the course of this progressive condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyao Yang
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia
| | - Bruce Thompson
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia
| | - Faith A A Kwa
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by deficiency of frataxin, an essential mitochondrial protein involved in iron sulfur cluster biogenesis, oxidative phosphorylation and other processes. FRDA most notably affects the heart, sensory neurons, spinal cord, cerebellum, and other brain regions, and manifests clinically as ataxia, sensory loss, dysarthria, spasticity, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Therapeutic approaches in FRDA have consisted of two different approaches: (1) augmenting or restoring frataxin production and (2) modulating a variety of downstream processes related to mitochondrial dysfunction, including reactive oxygen species production, ferroptosis, or Nrf2 activation. AREAS COVERED In this review, we summarize data from major phase II clinical trials in FRDA published between 2015 and 2020, which includes A0001/EPI743, Omaveloxolone, RT001, and Actimmune. EXPERT OPINION A growing number of drug candidates are being tested in phase II clinical trials for FRDA; however, most have not met their primary endpoints, and none have received FDA approval. In this review, we aim to summarize completed phase II clinical trials in FRDA, outlining critical lessons that have been learned and that should be incorporated into future trial design to ultimately optimize drug development in FRDA.
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Paredes-Fuentes AJ, Cesar S, Montero R, Latre C, Genovès J, Martorell L, Cuadras D, Colom H, Pineda M, Del Mar O'Callaghan M, Sarquella-Brugada G, Darling A, Artuch R. Plasma idebenone monitoring in Friedreich's ataxia patients during a long-term follow-up. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 143:112143. [PMID: 34507114 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Despite the growing interest and the potential benefits of idebenone as a repurposed drug for different orphan conditions, data regarding its monitoring are scarce. Our main goal was to report plasma idebenone values in a cohort of Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) patients during a long-term follow-up. Taking advantage of this, we also assessed cardiological and neurological status together with idebenone values and genetic background. METHODS Long-term follow-up retrospective study in 27 FRDA patients with a disease onset at the paediatric age treated with idebenone by compassionate use. Plasma idebenone was measured by HPLC with electrochemical detection. RESULTS Median plasma idebenone values increased when doses were increased, but apparently linearity was lost in the highest dose group. Marked intraindividual and interindividual differences were observed among patients. We did not find a consistent positive effect after analysis of paired data at the beginning and the end of the study. We only found a correlation between some cardiological measures and the duration of idebenone therapy at high doses, but with uncertain significance. CONCLUSIONS The large variations observed among the different individuals involved in this study should be considered for optimization of individual dosage regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abraham J Paredes-Fuentes
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sergi Cesar
- Arrhythmia, Inherited Cardiac Diseases and Sudden Death Unit, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raquel Montero
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Latre
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Genovès
- Molecular Genetics Department, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Loreto Martorell
- Molecular Genetics Department, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Cuadras
- Statistics Department, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Helena Colom
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical-Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercè Pineda
- Metabolic and Ataxia Unit, Department of Paediatric Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Del Mar O'Callaghan
- Metabolic and Ataxia Unit, Department of Paediatric Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Georgia Sarquella-Brugada
- Arrhythmia, Inherited Cardiac Diseases and Sudden Death Unit, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain; Medical Sciences Department, School of Medicine, University of Girona, 17004 Girona, Spain
| | - Alejandra Darling
- Metabolic and Ataxia Unit, Department of Paediatric Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rafael Artuch
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain; Biomedical Network Research Centre on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
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Personalized profiles of antioxidant signaling pathway in patients with tuberculosis. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2021; 55:405-412. [PMID: 34301493 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2021.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE The non-protein thiol glutathione is protective against infection by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and, together with the transcription factor NRF2 (the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2), plays a crucial role in counteracting MTB-induced redox imbalance. Many genes implicated in the antioxidant response belong to the NRF2-signalling pathway, whose central role in the pathogenesis of tuberculosis (TB) has been recently proposed. METHODS In this study, we measured GSH levels in blood of patients with active TB and analysed the individual NRF2-mediated redox profile, in order to provide additional tools for discriminating the pathologic TB state and addressing therapeutic interventions. RESULTS Our findings show a systemic individual modulation of GSH and NRF2 signaling pathway in patients with TB, with a "personalized" induction of NRF2-target genes. CONCLUSION This study can provide useful tools to monitor the course of the infection and address patients' treatment.
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Mitochondrial and metabolic dysfunction in Friedreich ataxia: update on pathophysiological relevance and clinical interventions. Neuronal Signal 2021; 5:NS20200093. [PMID: 34046211 PMCID: PMC8132591 DOI: 10.1042/ns20200093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is a recessive disorder resulting from relative deficiency of the mitochondrial protein frataxin. Frataxin functions in the process of iron–sulfur (Fe–S) cluster synthesis. In this review, we update some of the processes downstream of frataxin deficiency that may mediate the pathophysiology. Based on cellular models, in vivo models and observations of patients, ferroptosis may play a major role in the pathogenesis of FRDA along with depletion of antioxidant reserves and abnormalities of mitochondrial biogenesis. Ongoing clinical trials with ferroptosis inhibitors and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activators are now targeting each of the processes. In addition, better understanding of the mitochondrial events in FRDA may allow the development of improved imaging methodology for assessing the disorder. Though not technologically feasible at present, metabolic imaging approaches may provide a direct methodology to understand the mitochondrial changes occurring in FRDA and provide a methodology to monitor upcoming trials of frataxin restoration.
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Petrillo S, Santoro M, La Rosa P, Perna A, Gallo MG, Bertini ES, Silvestri G, Piemonte F. Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 Activation Might Mitigate Clinical Symptoms in Friedreich's Ataxia: Clues of an "Out-Brain Origin" of the Disease From a Family Study. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:638810. [PMID: 33708070 PMCID: PMC7940825 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.638810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Friedreich’s ataxia (FRDA) is the most frequent autosomal recessive ataxia in western countries, with a mean age of onset at 10–15 years. Patients manifest progressive cerebellar and sensory ataxia, dysarthria, lower limb pyramidal weakness, and other systemic manifestations. Previously, we described a family displaying two expanded GAA alleles not only in the proband affected by late-onset FRDA but also in the two asymptomatic family members: the mother and the younger sister. Both of them showed a significant reduction of frataxin levels, without any disease manifestation. Here, we analyzed if a protective mechanism might contribute to modulate the phenotype in this family. We particularly focused on the transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), the first line of antioxidant defense in cells, and on the glutathione (GSH) system, an index of reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxification ability. Our findings show a great reactivity of the GSH system to the frataxin deficiency, particularly in the asymptomatic mother, where the genes of GSH synthesis [glutamate–cysteine ligase (GCL)] and GSSG detoxification [GSH S-reductase (GSR)] were highly responsive. The GSR was activated even in the asymptomatic sister and in the proband, reflecting the need of buffering the GSSG increase. Furthermore, and contrasting the NRF2 expression documented in FRDA tissues, NRF2 was highly activated in the mother and in the younger sister, while it was constitutively low in the proband. This suggests that, also under frataxin depletion, the endogenous stimulation of NRF2 in asymptomatic FRDA subjects may contribute to protect against the progressive oxidative damage, helping to prevent the onset of neurological symptoms and highlighting an “out-brain origin” of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Petrillo
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Piergiorgio La Rosa
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessia Perna
- Department of Neurosciences, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Giovanna Gallo
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Silvio Bertini
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriella Silvestri
- Department of Neurosciences, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,UOC of Neurology, Area of Neuroscience, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Fiorella Piemonte
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Lynch DR, Johnson J. Omaveloxolone: potential new agent for Friedreich ataxia. Neurodegener Dis Manag 2021; 11:91-98. [PMID: 33430645 DOI: 10.2217/nmt-2020-0057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Friedreich ataxia is a slowly progressive neurodegenerative disorder leading to ataxia, dyscoordination, dysarthria and in many individuals vision and hearing loss. It is associated with cardiomyopathy, the leading cause of death in Friedreich ataxia (FRDA), diabetes and scoliosis. There are no approved therapies, but elucidation of the pathophysiology of FRDA suggest that agents that increase the activity of the transcription factor Nrf2 may provide a mechanism for ameliorating disease progression or severity. In this work, we review the evidence for use of omaveloxolone in FRDA from recent clinical trials. Though not at present approved for any indication, the present data suggest that this agent acting though increases in Nrf2 activity may provide a novel therapy for FRDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Lynch
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Department of Neurology & Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Joseph Johnson
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Department of Systems Pharmacology & Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Antitumor Activity of Curcumin in Glioblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249435. [PMID: 33322413 PMCID: PMC7763573 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Current standard-of-care treatment for glioblastoma, the most common malignant primary central nervous system (CNS) tumor, consists of surgical resection followed by adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation (Stupp protocol), providing an overall median survival of 15 months. With additional treatment using tumor-treating fields (Optune® therapy, Novocure Ltd., Haifa, Israel), survival can be extended up to 20 months. In spite of significant progress in our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis, the prognosis for patients with malignant gliomas remains poor and additional treatment modalities are critically needed. Curcumin is a bright yellow pigment found in the rhizome of the widely utilized spice, turmeric (Curcuma longa). It has long been used in South Asian traditional medicines and has been demonstrated to have in vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative effects. Curcumin has been demonstrated to induce multiple cytotoxic effects in tumor cells including cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, autophagy, changes in gene expression, and disruption of molecular signaling. Additionally, curcumin has been shown to potentiate the effect of radiation on cancer cells, while exhibiting a protective effect on normal tissue. Curcumin’s positive safety profile and widespread availability make it a promising compound for future clinical trials for high-grade gliomas.
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Seco-Cervera M, González-Cabo P, Pallardó FV, Romá-Mateo C, García-Giménez JL. Thioredoxin and Glutaredoxin Systems as Potential Targets for the Development of New Treatments in Friedreich's Ataxia. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9121257. [PMID: 33321938 PMCID: PMC7763308 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9121257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The thioredoxin family consists of a small group of redox proteins present in all organisms and composed of thioredoxins (TRXs), glutaredoxins (GLRXs) and peroxiredoxins (PRDXs) which are found in the extracellular fluid, the cytoplasm, the mitochondria and in the nucleus with functions that include antioxidation, signaling and transcriptional control, among others. The importance of thioredoxin family proteins in neurodegenerative diseases is gaining relevance because some of these proteins have demonstrated an important role in the central nervous system by mediating neuroprotection against oxidative stress, contributing to mitochondrial function and regulating gene expression. Specifically, in the context of Friedreich’s ataxia (FRDA), thioredoxin family proteins may have a special role in the regulation of Nrf2 expression and function, in Fe-S cluster metabolism, controlling the expression of genes located at the iron-response element (IRE) and probably regulating ferroptosis. Therefore, comprehension of the mechanisms that closely link thioredoxin family proteins with cellular processes affected in FRDA will serve as a cornerstone to design improved therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Seco-Cervera
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.S.-C.); (P.G.-C.); (F.V.P.)
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Universitat de València (UV), 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Pilar González-Cabo
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.S.-C.); (P.G.-C.); (F.V.P.)
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Universitat de València (UV), 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Federico V. Pallardó
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.S.-C.); (P.G.-C.); (F.V.P.)
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Universitat de València (UV), 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Carlos Romá-Mateo
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.S.-C.); (P.G.-C.); (F.V.P.)
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Universitat de València (UV), 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence: (C.R.-M.); (J.L.G.-G.); Tel.: +34-963-864-646 (C.R.-M. & J.L.G.-G.)
| | - José Luis García-Giménez
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.S.-C.); (P.G.-C.); (F.V.P.)
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Universitat de València (UV), 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence: (C.R.-M.); (J.L.G.-G.); Tel.: +34-963-864-646 (C.R.-M. & J.L.G.-G.)
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Zesiewicz TA, Hancock J, Ghanekar SD, Kuo SH, Dohse CA, Vega J. Emerging therapies in Friedreich's Ataxia. Expert Rev Neurother 2020; 20:1215-1228. [PMID: 32909841 PMCID: PMC8018609 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2020.1821654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease that results in gait and limb ataxia, diabetes, cardiac hypertrophy, and scoliosis. At the cellular level, FRDA results in the deficiency of frataxin, a mitochondrial protein that plays a vital role in iron homeostasis and amelioration of oxidative stress. No cure currently exists for FRDA, but exciting therapeutic developments which target different parts of the pathological cascade are on the horizon. AREAS COVERED Areas covered include past and emerging therapies for FRDA, including antioxidants and mitochondrial-related agents, nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activators, deuterated polyunsaturated fatty acids, iron chelators, histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors, trans-activator of transcription (TAT)-frataxin, interferon gamma (IFNγ), erythropoietin, resveratrol, gene therapy, and anti-sense oligonucleotides (ASOs), among others. EXPERT OPINION While drug discovery has been challenging, new and exciting prospective treatments for FRDA are currently on the horizon, including pharmaceutical agents and gene therapy. Agents that enhance mitochondrial function, such as Nrf2 activators, dPUFAs and catalytic antioxidants, as well as novel methods of frataxin augmentation and genetic modulation will hopefully provide treatment for this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa A. Zesiewicz
- University of South Florida (USF) Department of Neurology, USF Ataxia Research Center, Tampa Florida, James A Haley Veteran’s Hospital, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Joshua Hancock
- University of South Florida (USF) Department of Neurology, USF Ataxia Research Center, Tampa Florida, James A Haley Veteran’s Hospital, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Shaila D. Ghanekar
- University of South Florida (USF) Department of Neurology, USF Ataxia Research Center, Tampa Florida, James A Haley Veteran’s Hospital, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Sheng-Han Kuo
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Initiative for Columbia Ataxia and Tremor, New York, NY, USA
| | - Carlos A. Dohse
- Universidad Central Del Caribe School of Medicine, Bayamon, Puerto Rico
| | - Joshua Vega
- University of South Florida (USF) Department of Neurology, USF Ataxia Research Center, Tampa Florida, James A Haley Veteran’s Hospital, Tampa, Florida, USA
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Liu J, He H, Wang J, Guo X, Lin H, Chen H, Jiang C, Chen L, Yao P, Tang Y. Oxidative stress-dependent frataxin inhibition mediated alcoholic hepatocytotoxicity through ferroptosis. Toxicology 2020; 445:152584. [PMID: 33017621 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2020.152584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is one of the severe liver diseases, resulting in high morbidity and mortality. However, frataxin, a mitochondrial protein mainly participating in iron homeostasis and oxidative stress, remains uncertain in the pathogenesis of ALD. In the present study, the role of frataxin in ALD was investigated. Ethanol (100 mM) decreased frataxin expression at 48 and 72 h in HepG2. Dramatically, in HepG2 overexpressing cytochrome P450 2E1 (HepG2CYP2E1+/+), frataxin level was down-regulated with ethanol stimulation at 12 h. Moreover, chronically feeding ethanol to mice via Lieber-DeCarli liquid diet (30 % of total calories) for 15 weeks significantly inhibited frataxin expression. Ferroptosis signature proteins were dysregulated, accompanied by mitochondrial damage of morphology, enhanced malondialdehyde and decreased glutathione in the liver, as well as accumulation of reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial labile iron pool in primary hepatocytes. Notably, proteomics screening of frataxin deficient-HepG2 further suggested frataxin was associated with ferroptosis. Furthermore, the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1 blocked the increase of lactate dehydrogenase release by ethanol in HepG2CYP2E1+/+. Most importantly, frataxin deficiency enhanced ferroptosis driven by ethanol via evaluating the levels of lactate dehydrogenase, cell morphological changes, mitochondrial labile iron pool, and lipid peroxidation. Conversely, restoring frataxin alleviated the sensitivity to ferroptosis. In addition, frataxin overexpression mitigated the sensitivity of ethanol-induced ferroptosis in HepG2CYP2E1+/+. Collectively, our study revealed that frataxin-mediated ferroptosis contributed to ALD, highlighting a potential therapeutic strategy for ALD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Liu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environment and Health and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Hui He
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Preventive Medicine Experimental Teaching Center, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Xiaoping Guo
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environment and Health and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Hongkun Lin
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environment and Health and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Huimin Chen
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environment and Health and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Chunjie Jiang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environment and Health and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environment and Health and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Ping Yao
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environment and Health and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Yuhan Tang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environment and Health and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (Wuhan), Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environment Health (Incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
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Gueven N, Ravishankar P, Eri R, Rybalka E. Idebenone: When an antioxidant is not an antioxidant. Redox Biol 2020; 38:101812. [PMID: 33254077 PMCID: PMC7708875 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2020.101812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Idebenone is a well described drug that was initially developed against dementia. The current literature widely portrays this molecule as a potent antioxidant and CoQ10 analogue. While numerous papers seem to support this view, a closer look indicates that the pharmacokinetics of idebenone do not support these claims. A major discrepancy between achievable tissue levels, especially in target tissues such as the brain, and doses required to show the proposed effects, significantly questions our current understanding. This review explains how this has happened and highlights the discrepancies in the current literature. More importantly, based on some recent discoveries, a new framework is presented that can explain the mode of action of this molecule and can align formerly contradictory results. Finally, this new appreciation of the molecular activities of idebenone provides a rational approach to test idebenone in novel indications that might have not been considered previously for this drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuri Gueven
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.
| | - Pranathi Ravishankar
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Rajaraman Eri
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS, Australia
| | - Emma Rybalka
- Victoria University, Institute for Health and Sport, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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La Rosa P, Petrillo S, Fiorenza MT, Bertini ES, Piemonte F. Ferroptosis in Friedreich's Ataxia: A Metal-Induced Neurodegenerative Disease. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10111551. [PMID: 33202971 PMCID: PMC7696618 DOI: 10.3390/biom10111551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death, arising from the accumulation of lipid-based reactive oxygen species when glutathione-dependent repair systems are compromised. Lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial impairment and iron dyshomeostasis are the hallmark of ferroptosis, which is emerging as a crucial player in neurodegeneration. This review provides an analysis of the most recent advances in ferroptosis, with a special focus on Friedreich's Ataxia (FA), the most common autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disease, caused by reduced levels of frataxin, a mitochondrial protein involved in iron-sulfur cluster synthesis and antioxidant defenses. The hypothesis is that the iron-induced oxidative damage accumulates over time in FA, lowering the ferroptosis threshold and leading to neuronal cell death and, at last, to cardiac failure. The use of anti-ferroptosis drugs combined with treatments able to activate the antioxidant response will be of paramount importance in FA therapy, such as in many other neurodegenerative diseases triggered by oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piergiorgio La Rosa
- Department of Psychology, Division of Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (P.L.R.); (M.T.F.)
| | - Sara Petrillo
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (E.S.B.)
| | - Maria Teresa Fiorenza
- Department of Psychology, Division of Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (P.L.R.); (M.T.F.)
| | - Enrico Silvio Bertini
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (E.S.B.)
| | - Fiorella Piemonte
- Unit of Muscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy; (S.P.); (E.S.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-6859-2102
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Smith FM, Kosman DJ. Molecular Defects in Friedreich's Ataxia: Convergence of Oxidative Stress and Cytoskeletal Abnormalities. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 7:569293. [PMID: 33263002 PMCID: PMC7686857 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2020.569293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Friedreich’s ataxia (FRDA) is a multi-faceted disease characterized by progressive sensory–motor loss, neurodegeneration, brain iron accumulation, and eventual death by hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. FRDA follows loss of frataxin (FXN), a mitochondrial chaperone protein required for incorporation of iron into iron–sulfur cluster and heme precursors. After the discovery of the molecular basis of FRDA in 1996, over two decades of research have been dedicated to understanding the temporal manifestations of disease both at the whole body and molecular level. Early research indicated strong cellular iron dysregulation in both human and yeast models followed by onset of oxidative stress. Since then, the pathophysiology due to dysregulation of intracellular iron chaperoning has become central in FRDA relative to antioxidant defense and run-down in energy metabolism. At the same time, limited consideration has been given to changes in cytoskeletal organization, which was one of the first molecular defects noted. These alterations include both post-translational oxidative glutathionylation of actin monomers and differential DNA processing of a cytoskeletal regulator PIP5K1β. Currently unknown in respect to FRDA but well understood in the context of FXN-deficient cell physiology is the resulting impact on the cytoskeleton; this disassembly of actin filaments has a particularly profound effect on cell–cell junctions characteristic of barrier cells. With respect to a neurodegenerative disorder such as FRDA, this cytoskeletal and tight junction breakdown in the brain microvascular endothelial cells of the blood–brain barrier is likely a component of disease etiology. This review serves to outline a brief history of this research and hones in on pathway dysregulation downstream of iron-related pathology in FRDA related to actin dynamics. The review presented here was not written with the intent of being exhaustive, but to instead urge the reader to consider the essentiality of the cytoskeleton and appreciate the limited knowledge on FRDA-related cytoskeletal dysfunction as a result of oxidative stress. The review examines previous hypotheses of neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation (NBIA) in FRDA with a specific biochemical focus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances M Smith
- Department of Biochemistry, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Daniel J Kosman
- Department of Biochemistry, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States
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38
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The Nrf2 induction prevents ferroptosis in Friedreich's Ataxia. Redox Biol 2020; 38:101791. [PMID: 33197769 PMCID: PMC7677700 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2020.101791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent cell death caused by impaired glutathione metabolism, lipid peroxidation and mitochondrial failure. Emerging evidences report a role for ferroptosis in Friedreich's Ataxia (FRDA), a neurodegenerative disease caused by the decreased expression of the mitochondrial protein frataxin. Nrf2 signalling is implicated in many molecular aspects of ferroptosis, by upstream regulating glutathione homeostasis, mitochondrial function and lipid metabolism. As Nrf2 is down-regulated in FRDA, targeting Nrf2-mediated ferroptosis in FRDA may be an attractive option to counteract neurodegeneration in such disease, thus paving the way to new therapeutic opportunities. In this study, we evaluated ferroptosis hallmarks in frataxin-silenced mouse myoblasts, in hearts of a frataxin Knockin/Knockout (KIKO) mouse model, in skin fibroblasts and blood of patients, particularly focusing on ferroptosis-driven gene expression, mitochondrial impairment and lipid peroxidation. The efficacy of Nrf2 inducers to neutralize ferroptosis has been also evaluated.
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Chiang S, Huang MLH, Park KC, Richardson DR. Antioxidant defense mechanisms and its dysfunctional regulation in the mitochondrial disease, Friedreich's ataxia. Free Radic Biol Med 2020; 159:177-188. [PMID: 32739593 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2020.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Redox stress is associated with the pathogenesis of a wide variety of disease states. This can be amplified potentially through redox active iron deposits in oxidatively active organelles such as the mitochondrion. There are a number of disease states, including Friedreich's ataxia (FA) and sideroblastic anemia, where iron metabolism is dysregulated and leads to mitochondrial iron accumulation. Considering FA, which is due to the decreased expression of the mitochondrial protein, frataxin, this iron accumulation does not occur within protective storage proteins such as mitochondrial ferritin. Instead, it forms unbound biomineral aggregates composed of high spin iron(III), phosphorous and sulfur, which probably contributes to the observed redox stress. There is also a dysregulated response to the ensuing redox assault, as the master regulator of oxidative stress, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf2), demonstrates marked down-regulation. The dysfunctional response of Nrf2 in FA is due to multiple mechanisms including: (1) up-regulation of Keap1 that is involved in Nrf2 degradation; (2) activation of the nuclear Nrf2 export/degradation machinery via glycogen synthase kinase-3β (Gsk3β) signaling; and (3) inhibited nuclear translocation of Nrf2. More recently, increased microRNA (miRNA) 144 expression has been demonstrated to down-regulate Nrf2 in several disease states, including an animal model of FA. Other miRNAs have also demonstrated to be dysregulated upon frataxin depletion in vivo in humans and animal models of FA. Collectively, frataxin depletion results in multiple, complex responses that lead to detrimental redox effects that could contribute to the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of FA.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Chiang
- Molecular Pharmacology and Pathology Program, Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, Medical Foundation Building (K25), University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - M L H Huang
- Molecular Pharmacology and Pathology Program, Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, Medical Foundation Building (K25), University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - K C Park
- Molecular Pharmacology and Pathology Program, Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, Medical Foundation Building (K25), University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - D R Richardson
- Molecular Pharmacology and Pathology Program, Department of Pathology and Bosch Institute, Medical Foundation Building (K25), University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia; Department of Pathology and Biological Responses, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; Centre for Cancer Cell Biology, Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Nathan, Brisbane, Queensland, 4111, Australia.
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Turchi R, Faraonio R, Lettieri-Barbato D, Aquilano K. An Overview of the Ferroptosis Hallmarks in Friedreich's Ataxia. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E1489. [PMID: 33126466 PMCID: PMC7693407 DOI: 10.3390/biom10111489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by early mortality due to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. FRDA is caused by reduced levels of frataxin (FXN), a mitochondrial protein involved in the synthesis of iron-sulphur clusters, leading to iron accumulation at the mitochondrial level, uncontrolled production of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation. These features are also common to ferroptosis, an iron-mediated type of cell death triggered by accumulation of lipoperoxides with distinct morphological and molecular characteristics with respect to other known cell deaths. SCOPE OF REVIEW Even though ferroptosis has been associated with various neurodegenerative diseases including FRDA, the mechanisms leading to disease onset/progression have not been demonstrated yet. We describe the molecular alterations occurring in FRDA that overlap with those characterizing ferroptosis. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS The study of ferroptotic pathways is necessary for the understanding of FRDA pathogenesis, and anti-ferroptotic drugs could be envisaged as therapeutic strategies to cure FRDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Turchi
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Raffaella Faraonio
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Daniele Lettieri-Barbato
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy;
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Katia Aquilano
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy;
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Marioli C, Magliocca V, Petrini S, Niceforo A, Borghi R, Petrillo S, La Rosa P, Colasuonno F, Persichini T, Piemonte F, Massey K, Tartaglia M, Moreno S, Bertini E, Compagnucci C. Antioxidant Amelioration of Riboflavin Transporter Deficiency in Motoneurons Derived from Patient-Specific Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7402. [PMID: 33036493 PMCID: PMC7582490 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key element in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders, such as riboflavin transporter deficiency (RTD). This is a rare, childhood-onset disease characterized by motoneuron degeneration and caused by mutations in SLC52A2 and SLC52A3, encoding riboflavin (RF) transporters (RFVT2 and RFVT3, respectively), resulting in muscle weakness, ponto-bulbar paralysis and sensorineural deafness. Based on previous findings, which document the contribution of oxidative stress in RTD pathogenesis, we tested possible beneficial effects of several antioxidants (Vitamin C, Idebenone, Coenzyme Q10 and EPI-743, either alone or in combination with RF) on the morphology and function of neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from two RTD patients. To identify possible improvement of the neuronal morphotype, neurite length was measured by confocal microscopy after β-III tubulin immunofluorescent staining. Neuronal function was evaluated by determining superoxide anion generation by MitoSOX assay and intracellular calcium (Ca2+) levels, using the Fluo-4 probe. Among the antioxidants tested, EPI-743 restored the redox status, improved neurite length and ameliorated intracellular calcium influx into RTD motoneurons. In conclusion, we suggest that antioxidant supplementation may have a role in RTD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Marioli
- Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, 00146 Rome, Italy; (C.M.); (F.C.); (M.T.)
| | - Valentina Magliocca
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, 00146 Rome, Italy; (V.M.); (T.P.)
- Unit of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, 00146 Rome, Italy; (A.N.); (R.B.); (S.P.); (F.P.); (E.B.)
| | - Stefania Petrini
- Confocal Microscopy Core Facility, Research Laboratories, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, 00146 Rome, Italy;
| | - Alessia Niceforo
- Unit of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, 00146 Rome, Italy; (A.N.); (R.B.); (S.P.); (F.P.); (E.B.)
- Department of Science, LIME, University Roma Tre, 00146 Rome, Italy;
| | - Rossella Borghi
- Unit of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, 00146 Rome, Italy; (A.N.); (R.B.); (S.P.); (F.P.); (E.B.)
- Department of Science, LIME, University Roma Tre, 00146 Rome, Italy;
| | - Sara Petrillo
- Unit of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, 00146 Rome, Italy; (A.N.); (R.B.); (S.P.); (F.P.); (E.B.)
| | - Piergiorgio La Rosa
- Department of Psychology, Division of Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Fiorella Colasuonno
- Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, 00146 Rome, Italy; (C.M.); (F.C.); (M.T.)
- Department of Science, LIME, University Roma Tre, 00146 Rome, Italy;
| | - Tiziana Persichini
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, 00146 Rome, Italy; (V.M.); (T.P.)
| | - Fiorella Piemonte
- Unit of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, 00146 Rome, Italy; (A.N.); (R.B.); (S.P.); (F.P.); (E.B.)
| | - Keith Massey
- Science Director, Cure RTD Foundation, 6228 Northaven Rd., Dallas, TX 75230, USA;
| | - Marco Tartaglia
- Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, 00146 Rome, Italy; (C.M.); (F.C.); (M.T.)
| | - Sandra Moreno
- Department of Science, LIME, University Roma Tre, 00146 Rome, Italy;
| | - Enrico Bertini
- Unit of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, 00146 Rome, Italy; (A.N.); (R.B.); (S.P.); (F.P.); (E.B.)
| | - Claudia Compagnucci
- Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, 00146 Rome, Italy; (C.M.); (F.C.); (M.T.)
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Lovatt M, Kocaba V, Hui Neo DJ, Soh YQ, Mehta JS. Nrf2: A unifying transcription factor in the pathogenesis of Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy. Redox Biol 2020; 37:101763. [PMID: 33099215 PMCID: PMC7578533 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2020.101763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear factor, erythroid 2 like 2 (Nrf2), is an oxidative stress induced transcription factor that regulates cytoprotective gene expression. Thus, Nrf2 is essential for cellular redox homeostasis. Loss or dysregulation of Nrf2 expression has been implicated in the pathogenesis of degenerative diseases, including diseases of the cornea. One of the most common diseases of the cornea in which Nrf2 is implicated is Fuchs' endothelial cornea dystrophy (FECD). FECD is the leading indication for corneal transplantation; and is associated with a loss of corneal endothelial cell (CEC) function. In this review, we propose that Nrf2 is an essential regulator of CEC function. Furthermore, we demonstrate that deficiency of Nrf2 function is a hallmark of FECD. In addition, we advocate that pharmacological targeting of Nrf2 as a possible therapy for FECD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Lovatt
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore.
| | - Viridiana Kocaba
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Netherlands Institute for Innovative Ocular Surgery (NIIOS), Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dawn Jing Hui Neo
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
| | - Yu Qiang Soh
- Department of Cornea and External Eye Disease, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore
| | - Jodhbir S Mehta
- Tissue Engineering and Cell Therapy Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore; Department of Cornea and External Eye Disease, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore; Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore.
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Fil D, Chacko BK, Conley R, Ouyang X, Zhang J, Darley-Usmar VM, Zuberi AR, Lutz CM, Napierala M, Napierala JS. Mitochondrial damage and senescence phenotype of cells derived from a novel frataxin G127V point mutation mouse model of Friedreich's ataxia. Dis Model Mech 2020; 13:dmm045229. [PMID: 32586831 PMCID: PMC7406325 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.045229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA) is an autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disease caused by reduced expression of the mitochondrial protein frataxin (FXN). Most FRDA patients are homozygous for large expansions of GAA repeat sequences in intron 1 of FXN, whereas a fraction of patients are compound heterozygotes, with a missense or nonsense mutation in one FXN allele and expanded GAAs in the other. A prevalent missense mutation among FRDA patients changes a glycine at position 130 to valine (G130V). Herein, we report generation of the first mouse model harboring an Fxn point mutation. Changing the evolutionarily conserved glycine 127 in mouse Fxn to valine results in a failure-to-thrive phenotype in homozygous animals and a substantially reduced number of offspring. Like G130V in FRDA, the G127V mutation results in a dramatic decrease of Fxn protein without affecting transcript synthesis or splicing. FxnG127V mouse embryonic fibroblasts exhibit significantly reduced proliferation and increased cell senescence. These defects are evident in early passage cells and are exacerbated at later passages. Furthermore, increased frequency of mitochondrial DNA lesions and fragmentation are accompanied by marked amplification of mitochondrial DNA in FxnG127V cells. Bioenergetics analyses demonstrate higher sensitivity and reduced cellular respiration of FxnG127V cells upon alteration of fatty acid availability. Importantly, substitution of FxnWT with FxnG127V is compatible with life, and cellular proliferation defects can be rescued by mitigation of oxidative stress via hypoxia or induction of the NRF2 pathway. We propose FxnG127V cells as a simple and robust model for testing therapeutic approaches for FRDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Fil
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1825 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Balu K Chacko
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 901 19th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Center for Free Radical Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Mitochondrial Medicine Laboratory, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Robbie Conley
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1825 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Xiaosen Ouyang
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 901 19th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Center for Free Radical Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Mitochondrial Medicine Laboratory, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 901 19th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Center for Free Radical Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Mitochondrial Medicine Laboratory, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Victor M Darley-Usmar
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 901 19th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Center for Free Radical Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Mitochondrial Medicine Laboratory, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Aamir R Zuberi
- The Rare and Orphan Disease Center, JAX Center for Precision Genetics, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
| | - Cathleen M Lutz
- The Rare and Orphan Disease Center, JAX Center for Precision Genetics, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
| | - Marek Napierala
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1825 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Jill S Napierala
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1825 University Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
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La Rosa P, Petrillo S, Bertini ES, Piemonte F. Oxidative Stress in DNA Repeat Expansion Disorders: A Focus on NRF2 Signaling Involvement. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10050702. [PMID: 32369911 PMCID: PMC7277112 DOI: 10.3390/biom10050702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA repeat expansion disorders are a group of neuromuscular and neurodegenerative diseases that arise from the inheritance of long tracts of nucleotide repetitions, located in the regulatory region, introns, or inside the coding sequence of a gene. Although loss of protein expression and/or the gain of function of its transcribed mRNA or translated product represent the major pathogenic effect of these pathologies, mitochondrial dysfunction and imbalance in redox homeostasis are reported as common features in these disorders, deeply affecting their severity and progression. In this review, we examine the role that the redox imbalance plays in the pathological mechanisms of DNA expansion disorders and the recent advances on antioxidant treatments, particularly focusing on the expression and the activity of the transcription factor NRF2, the main cellular regulator of the antioxidant response.
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The NRF2 Signaling Network Defines Clinical Biomarkers and Therapeutic Opportunity in Friedreich's Ataxia. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030916. [PMID: 32019240 PMCID: PMC7037688 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is a trinucleotide repeats expansion neurodegenerative disorder, for which no cure or approved therapies are present. In most cases, GAA trinucleotide repetitions in the first intron of the FXN gene are the genetic trigger of FA, determining a strong reduction of frataxin, a mitochondrial protein involved in iron homeostasis. Frataxin depletion impairs iron–sulfur cluster biosynthesis and determines iron accumulation in the mitochondria. Mounting evidence suggests that these defects increase oxidative stress susceptibility and reactive oxygen species production in FA, where the pathologic picture is worsened by a defective regulation of the expression and signaling pathway modulation of the transcription factor NF-E2 p45-related factor 2 (NRF2), one of the fundamental mediators of the cellular antioxidant response. NRF2 protein downregulation and impairment of its nuclear translocation can compromise the adequate cellular response to the frataxin depletion-dependent redox imbalance. As NRF2 stability, expression, and activation can be modulated by diverse natural and synthetic compounds, efforts have been made in recent years to understand if regulating NRF2 signaling might ameliorate the pathologic defects in FA. Here we provide an analysis of the pharmaceutical interventions aimed at restoring the NRF2 signaling network in FA, elucidating specific biomarkers useful for monitoring therapeutic effectiveness, and developing new therapeutic tools.
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Turchi R, Tortolici F, Guidobaldi G, Iacovelli F, Falconi M, Rufini S, Faraonio R, Casagrande V, Federici M, De Angelis L, Carotti S, Francesconi M, Zingariello M, Morini S, Bernardini R, Mattei M, La Rosa P, Piemonte F, Lettieri-Barbato D, Aquilano K. Frataxin deficiency induces lipid accumulation and affects thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:51. [PMID: 31974344 PMCID: PMC6978516 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-2253-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Decreased expression of mitochondrial frataxin (FXN) causes Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA), a neurodegenerative disease with type 2 diabetes (T2D) as severe comorbidity. Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is a mitochondria-enriched and anti-diabetic tissue that turns excess energy into heat to maintain metabolic homeostasis. Here we report that the FXN knock-in/knock-out (KIKO) mouse shows hyperlipidemia, reduced energy expenditure and insulin sensitivity, and elevated plasma leptin, recapitulating T2D-like signatures. FXN deficiency leads to disrupted mitochondrial ultrastructure and oxygen consumption as well as lipid accumulation in BAT. Transcriptomic data highlights cold intolerance in association with iron-mediated cell death (ferroptosis). Impaired PKA-mediated lipolysis and expression of genes controlling mitochondrial metabolism, lipid catabolism and adipogenesis were observed in BAT of KIKO mice as well as in FXN-deficient T37i brown and primary adipocytes. Significant susceptibility to ferroptosis was observed in adipocyte precursors that showed increased lipid peroxidation and decreased glutathione peroxidase 4. Collectively our data point to BAT dysfunction in FRDA and suggest BAT as promising therapeutic target to overcome T2D in FRDA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Turchi
- Department Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavia Tortolici
- Department Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulio Guidobaldi
- Department Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy
| | - Federico Iacovelli
- Department Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy
| | - Mattia Falconi
- Department Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Rufini
- Department Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaella Faraonio
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Viviana Casagrande
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Federici
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo De Angelis
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Carotti
- Unit of Microscopic and Ultrastructural Anatomy, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Francesconi
- Unit of Microscopic and Ultrastructural Anatomy, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Zingariello
- Unit of Microscopic and Ultrastructural Anatomy, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Morini
- Unit of Microscopic and Ultrastructural Anatomy, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Bernardini
- Interdepartmental Service Center-Station for Animal Technology (STA), University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Mattei
- Interdepartmental Service Center-Station for Animal Technology (STA), University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Piergiorgio La Rosa
- Unit of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Fiorella Piemonte
- Unit of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Lettieri-Barbato
- Department Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy.
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00143, Rome, Italy.
| | - Katia Aquilano
- Department Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, via della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy.
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