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Chen W, Jiang S, Li S, Li C, Xu R. OSMR is a potential driver of inflammation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:2513-2521. [PMID: 38526287 PMCID: PMC11090450 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.391309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202419110-00031/figure1/v/2024-03-08T184507Z/r/image-tiff Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease, and the molecular mechanism underlying its pathology remains poorly understood. However, inflammation is known to play an important role in the development of this condition. To identify driver genes that affect the inflammatory response in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, as well as potential treatment targets, it is crucial to analyze brain tissue samples from patients with both sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and C9orf72-related amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Therefore, in this study we used a network-driven gene analysis tool, NetBID2.0, which is based on SJARACNe, a scalable algorithm for the reconstruction of accurate cellular networks, to experimentally analyze sequencing data from patients with sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The results showed that the OSMR gene is pathogenic in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and participates in the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis by mediating the neuroinflammatory response. Furthermore, there were differences in OSMR activity and expression between patients with sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and those with C9orf72-related amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. These findings suggest that OSMR may be a diagnostic and prognostic marker for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzhi Chen
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xiangya Hospital Jiangxi Hospital of Central South University, The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Shishi Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xiangya Hospital Jiangxi Hospital of Central South University, The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Shu Li
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xiangya Hospital Jiangxi Hospital of Central South University, The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Cheng Li
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xiangya Hospital Jiangxi Hospital of Central South University, The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Renshi Xu
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xiangya Hospital Jiangxi Hospital of Central South University, The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
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2
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Raffaele S, Nguyen N, Milanese M, Mannella FC, Boccazzi M, Frumento G, Bonanno G, Abbracchio MP, Bonifacino T, Fumagalli M. Montelukast improves disease outcome in SOD1 G93A female mice by counteracting oligodendrocyte dysfunction and aberrant glial reactivity. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:3303-3326. [PMID: 38751168 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive motor neuron (MN) loss and consequent muscle atrophy, for which no effective therapies are available. Recent findings reveal that disease progression is fuelled by early aberrant neuroinflammation and the loss of oligodendrocytes with neuroprotective and remyelinating properties. On this basis, pharmacological interventions capable of restoring a pro-regenerative local milieu and re-establish proper oligodendrocyte functions may be beneficial. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Here, we evaluated the in vivo therapeutic effects of montelukast (MTK), an antagonist of the oligodendroglial G protein-coupled receptor 17 (GPR17) and of cysteinyl-leukotriene receptor 1 (CysLT1R) receptors on microglia and astrocytes, in the SOD1G93A ALS mouse model. We chronically treated SOD1G93A mice with MTK, starting from the early symptomatic disease stage. Disease progression was assessed by behavioural and immunohistochemical approaches. KEY RESULTS Oral MTK treatment significantly extended survival probability, delayed body weight loss and ameliorated motor functionalityonly in female SOD1G93A mice. Noteworthy, MTK significantly restored oligodendrocyte maturation and induced significant changes in the reactive phenotype and morphological features of microglia/macrophages and astrocytes in the spinal cord of female SOD1G93A mice, suggesting enhanced pro-regenerative functions. Importantly, concomitant MN preservation has been detected after MTK administration. No beneficial effects were observed in male mice, highlighting a sex-based difference in the protective activity of MTK. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our results provide the first preclinical evidence indicating that repurposing of MTK, a safe and marketed anti-asthmatic drug, may be a promising sex-specific strategy for personalized ALS treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Raffaele
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Nhung Nguyen
- Department of Pharmacy, Unit of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Marco Milanese
- Department of Pharmacy, Unit of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca C Mannella
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Boccazzi
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Frumento
- Department of Pharmacy, Unit of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giambattista Bonanno
- Department of Pharmacy, Unit of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria P Abbracchio
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bonifacino
- Department of Pharmacy, Unit of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3R Principles in Teaching and Research (Centro 3R), Pisa, Italy
| | - Marta Fumagalli
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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3
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Jacob SM, Lee S, Kim SH, Sharkey KA, Pfeffer G, Nguyen MD. Brain-body mechanisms contribute to sexual dimorphism in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Nat Rev Neurol 2024; 20:475-494. [PMID: 38965379 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-024-00991-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common form of human motor neuron disease. It is characterized by the progressive degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons, leading to generalized motor weakness and, ultimately, respiratory paralysis and death within 3-5 years. The disease is shaped by genetics, age, sex and environmental stressors, but no cure or routine biomarkers exist for the disease. Male individuals have a higher propensity to develop ALS, and a different manifestation of the disease phenotype, than female individuals. However, the mechanisms underlying these sex differences remain a mystery. In this Review, we summarize the epidemiology of ALS, examine the sexually dimorphic presentation of the disease and highlight the genetic variants and molecular pathways that might contribute to sex differences in humans and animal models of ALS. We advance the idea that sexual dimorphism in ALS arises from the interactions between the CNS and peripheral organs, involving vascular, metabolic, endocrine, musculoskeletal and immune systems, which are strikingly different between male and female individuals. Finally, we review the response to treatments in ALS and discuss the potential to implement future personalized therapeutic strategies for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Jacob
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sukyoung Lee
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Seung Hyun Kim
- Department of Neurology, Hanyang University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Keith A Sharkey
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gerald Pfeffer
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
- Department of Medical Genetics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Minh Dang Nguyen
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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4
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Niccolai E, Pedone M, Martinelli I, Nannini G, Baldi S, Simonini C, Di Gloria L, Zucchi E, Ramazzotti M, Spezia PG, Maggi F, Quaranta G, Masucci L, Bartolucci G, Stingo FC, Mandrioli J, Amedei A. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis stratification: unveiling patterns with virome, inflammation, and metabolism molecules. J Neurol 2024; 271:4310-4325. [PMID: 38644373 PMCID: PMC11233352 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12348-7] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an untreatable and clinically heterogeneous condition primarily affecting motor neurons. The ongoing quest for reliable biomarkers that mirror the disease status and progression has led to investigations that extend beyond motor neurons' pathology, encompassing broader systemic factors such as metabolism, immunity, and the microbiome. Our study contributes to this effort by examining the potential role of microbiome-related components, including viral elements, such as torque tenovirus (TTV), and various inflammatory factors, in ALS. In our analysis of serum samples from 100 ALS patients and 34 healthy controls (HC), we evaluated 14 cytokines, TTV DNA load, and 18 free fatty acids (FFA). We found that the evaluated variables are effective in differentiating ALS patients from healthy controls. In addition, our research identifies four unique patient clusters, each characterized by distinct biological profiles. Intriguingly, no correlations were found with site of onset, sex, progression rate, phenotype, or C9ORF72 expansion. A remarkable aspect of our findings is the discovery of a gender-specific relationship between levels of 2-ethylhexanoic acid and patient survival. In addition to contributing to the growing body of evidence suggesting altered peripheral immune responses in ALS, our exploratory research underscores metabolic diversity challenging conventional clinical classifications. If our exploratory findings are validated by further research, they could significantly impact disease understanding and patient care customization. Identifying groups based on biological profiles might aid in clustering patients with varying responses to treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Niccolai
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Matteo Pedone
- Department of Statistics, Computer Science, Applications "G. Parenti", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Ilaria Martinelli
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Nannini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Simone Baldi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Cecilia Simonini
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Leandro Di Gloria
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Zucchi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Matteo Ramazzotti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pietro Giorgio Spezia
- Department of Translational Research, Retrovirus Center - University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Maggi
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases Lazzaro Spallanzani - IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Quaranta
- Department of Laboratory and Infectious Sciences, A. Gemelli University Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Masucci
- Department of Laboratory and Infectious Sciences, A. Gemelli University Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Bartolucci
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health Section of Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesco Claudio Stingo
- Department of Statistics, Computer Science, Applications "G. Parenti", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Jessica Mandrioli
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Di Modena, Modena, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Amedeo Amedei
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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5
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Shen D, Ji Y, Qiu C, Wang K, Gao Z, Liu B, Shen Y, Gong L, Yang X, Chen X, Sun H, Yao X. Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Analysis of Microglia Dissected the Energy Metabolism and Revealed Potential Biomarkers in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:4473-4487. [PMID: 38102515 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03806-w] [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: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a common neurodegenerative disease, accompanied by the gradual loss of motor neuron, even life-threatening. However, the pathogenesis, early diagnosis, and effective strategies of ALS are not yet completely understood. In this study, the function of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in non-neuronal cells of the primary motor cortex of ALS patients (DATA1), the brainstem of SOD1 mutant ALS mice (DATA2), and the whole blood tissue of ALS patients (DATA3) were explored. The results showed that the functions of DEGs in non-neuronal cells were mainly related to energy metabolism (such as oxidative phosphorylation) and protein synthesis. In non-neuronal cells, six upregulated DEGs (HSPA8, SOD1, CALM1, CALM2, NEFL, COX6C) and three downregulated DEGs (SNRNP70, HSPA1A, HSPA1B) might be key factors in regulating ALS. Microglia played a key role in the development of ALS. The expression of SOD1 and TUBA4A in microglia in DATA1 was significantly increased. The integration analysis of DEGs in DATA1 and DATA2 showed that SOD1 and CALM1 might be potential biomarkers. The integration analysis of DEGs in DATA1 and DATA3 showed that CALM2 and HSPA1A might be potential biomarkers. Cell interaction showed that the interaction between microglia and other cells was reduced in high oxidative phosphorylation states, which might be a risk factor in ALS. Our research provided evidence for the pathogenesis, early diagnosis, and potential targeted therapy for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingding Shen
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanan Ji
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Chong Qiu
- Medical School of Nantong University, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Kexin Wang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Zihui Gao
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Boya Liu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuntian Shen
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Leilei Gong
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, People's Republic of China
- Research and Development Center for E-Learning, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100816, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoming Yang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hualin Sun
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xinlei Yao
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, People's Republic of China.
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6
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Casado Gama H, Amorós MA, Andrade de Araújo M, Sha CM, Vieira MP, Torres RG, Souza GF, Junkes JA, Dokholyan NV, Leite Góes Gitaí D, Duzzioni M. Systematic review and meta-analysis of dysregulated microRNAs derived from liquid biopsies as biomarkers for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:523-535. [PMID: 38511059 PMCID: PMC10950706 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2024.02.006] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The discovery of disease-specific biomarkers, such as microRNAs (miRNAs), holds the potential to transform the landscape of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) by facilitating timely diagnosis, monitoring treatment response, and accelerating drug discovery. Such advancement could ultimately improve the quality of life and survival rates for ALS patients. Despite more than a decade of research, no miRNA biomarker candidate has been translated into clinical practice. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to quantitatively synthesize data from original studies that analyzed miRNA expression from liquid biopsies via PCR and compared them to healthy controls. Our analysis encompasses 807 miRNA observations from 31 studies, stratified according to their source tissue. We identified consistently dysregulated miRNAs in serum (hsa-miR-3665, -4530, -4745-5p, -206); blood (hsa-miR-338-3p, -183-5p); cerebrospinal fluid (hsa-miR-34a-3p); plasma (hsa-miR-206); and neural-enriched extracellular vesicles from plasma (hsa-miR-146a-5p, -151a-5p, -10b-5p, -29b-3p, and -4454). The meta-analyses provided further support for the upregulation of hsa-miR-206, hsa-miR-338-3p, hsa-miR-146a-5p and hsa-miR-151a-5p, and downregulation of hsa-miR-183-5p, hsa-miR-10b-5p, hsa-miR-29b-3p, and hsa-miR-4454 as consistent indicators of ALS across independent studies. Our findings provide valuable insights into the current understanding of miRNAs' dysregulated expression in ALS patients and on the researchers' choices of methodology. This work contributes to the ongoing efforts towards discovering disease-specific biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemerson Casado Gama
- Laboratory of Pharmacological Innovation, Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas -AL, 57072-900, Brazil
| | - Mariana A. Amorós
- Laboratory of Pharmacological Innovation, Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas -AL, 57072-900, Brazil
| | - Mykaella Andrade de Araújo
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas -AL, 57072-900, Brazil
| | - Congzhou M. Sha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, United States
| | - Mirella P.S. Vieira
- Laboratory of Pharmacological Innovation, Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas -AL, 57072-900, Brazil
| | - Rayssa G.D. Torres
- Laboratory of Pharmacological Innovation, Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas -AL, 57072-900, Brazil
| | - Gabriela F. Souza
- Laboratory of Pharmacological Innovation, Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas -AL, 57072-900, Brazil
| | - Janaína A. Junkes
- Postgraduate Program in Society, Technologies and Public Policies, Tiradentes University Centre, AL, 57038-000, Brazil
| | - Nikolay V. Dokholyan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, United States
| | - Daniel Leite Góes Gitaí
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas -AL, 57072-900, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Duzzioni
- Laboratory of Pharmacological Innovation, Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas -AL, 57072-900, Brazil
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7
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Nguyen L. Updates on Disease Mechanisms and Therapeutics for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Cells 2024; 13:888. [PMID: 38891021 PMCID: PMC11172142 DOI: 10.3390/cells13110888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig's disease, is a motor neuron disease. In ALS, upper and lower motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord progressively degenerate during the course of the disease, leading to the loss of the voluntary movement of the arms and legs. Since its first description in 1869 by a French neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot, the scientific discoveries on ALS have increased our understanding of ALS genetics, pathology and mechanisms and provided novel therapeutic strategies. The goal of this review article is to provide a comprehensive summary of the recent findings on ALS mechanisms and related therapeutic strategies to the scientific audience. Several highlighted ALS research topics discussed in this article include the 2023 FDA approved drug for SOD1 ALS, the updated C9orf72 GGGGCC repeat-expansion-related mechanisms and therapeutic targets, TDP-43-mediated cryptic splicing and disease markers and diagnostic and therapeutic options offered by these recent discoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lien Nguyen
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA;
- Center for NeuroGenetics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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8
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Antonucci S, Caron G, Dikwella N, Krishnamurty SS, Harster A, Zarrin H, Tahanis A, Heuvel FO, Danner SM, Ludolph A, Grycz K, Baczyk M, Zytnicki D, Roselli F. Non-canonical adrenergic neuromodulation of motoneuron intrinsic excitability through β-receptors in wild-type and ALS mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.25.586570. [PMID: 38585891 PMCID: PMC10996613 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.25.586570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Altered neuronal excitability and synaptic inputs to motoneurons are part of the pathophysiology of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. The cAMP/PKA pathway regulates both of them but therapeutic interventions at this level are limited by the lack of knowledge about suitable pharmacological entry points. Here we used transcriptomics on microdissected and in situ motoneurons to reveal the modulation of PKA-coupled receptorome in SOD1(G93A) ALS mice, vs WT, demonstrating the dysregulation of multiple PKA-coupled GPCRs, in particular on vulnerable MNs, and the relative sparing of β-adrenergic receptors. In vivo MN electrophysiology showed that β2/β3 agonists acutely increase excitability, in particular the input/output relationship, demonstrating a non-canonical adrenergic neuromodulation mediated by β2/β3 receptors both in WT and SOD1 mice. The excitability increase corresponds to the upregulation of immediate-early gene expression and dysregulation of ion channels transcriptome. However the β2/β3 neuromodulation is submitted to a strong homeostasis, since a ten days delivery of β2/β3 agonists results in an abolition of the excitability increase. The homeostatic response is largely caused by a substantial downregulation of PKA-coupled GPCRs in MNs from WT and SOD1 mice. Thus, β-adrenergic receptors are physiologically involved in the regulation of MN excitability and transcriptomics, but, intriguingly, a strong homeostatic response is triggered upon chronic pharmacologic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guillaume Caron
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Saints-Pères Paris Institute for the Neurosciences, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Anthony Harster
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Saints-Pères Paris Institute for the Neurosciences, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | - Simon M. Danner
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, United States
| | - Albert Ludolph
- Dept. of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, DE
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)-Ulm, DE
| | - Kamil Grycz
- Dept. of Neurobiology, Poznan University of Physical Education, Poland
| | - Marcin Baczyk
- Dept. of Neurobiology, Poznan University of Physical Education, Poland
| | - Daniel Zytnicki
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Saints-Pères Paris Institute for the Neurosciences, Paris, France
| | - Francesco Roselli
- Dept. of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, DE
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)-Ulm, DE
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La Cognata V, Morello G, Guarnaccia M, Cavallaro S. The multifaceted role of the CXC chemokines and receptors signaling axes in ALS pathophysiology. Prog Neurobiol 2024; 235:102587. [PMID: 38367748 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2024.102587] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a late-onset motor neuron disease with complex genetic basis and still no clear etiology. Multiple intertwined layers of immune system-related dysfunctions and neuroinflammatory mechanisms are emerging as substantial determinants in ALS onset and progression. In this review, we collect the increasingly arising evidence implicating four main CXC chemokines/cognate receptors signaling axes (CXCR1/2-CXCL1/2/8; CXCR3-CXCL9/10/11; CXCR4/7-CXCL12; CXCR5-CXCL13) in the pathophysiology of ALS. Findings in preclinical models implicate these signaling pathways in motor neuron toxicity and neuroprotection, while in ALS patients dysregulation of CXCLs/CXCRs has been shown at both central and peripheral levels. Immunological monitoring of CXC-ligands in ALS may allow tracking of disease progression, while pharmacological modulation of CXC-receptors provides a novel therapeutic strategy. A deeper understanding of the interplay between CXC-mediated neuroinflammation and ALS is crucial to advance research into treatments for this debilitating uncurable disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina La Cognata
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via P. Gaifami 18, Catania 95126, Italy
| | - Giovanna Morello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via P. Gaifami 18, Catania 95126, Italy
| | - Maria Guarnaccia
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via P. Gaifami 18, Catania 95126, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Cavallaro
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via P. Gaifami 18, Catania 95126, Italy.
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10
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Domi T, Schito P, Sferruzza G, Russo T, Pozzi L, Agosta F, Carrera P, Riva N, Filippi M, Quattrini A, Falzone YM. Unveiling the SOD1-mediated ALS phenotype: insights from a comprehensive meta-analysis. J Neurol 2024; 271:1342-1354. [PMID: 37930481 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-12074-6] [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: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis associated with mutations in SOD1 (SOD1-ALS) might be susceptible to specific treatment. The aim of the study is to outline the clinical features of SOD1-ALS patients by comparing them to patients without ALS major gene variants and patients with variants in other major ALS genes. Defining SOD1-ALS phenotype may assist clinicians in identifying patients who should be prioritized for genetic testing. METHODS We performed an extensive literature research including original studies which reported the clinical features of SOD1-ALS and at least one of the following patient groups: C9ORF72 hexanucleotide repeat expansion (C9-ALS), TARDBP (TARDBP-ALS), FUS (FUS-ALS) or patients without a positive test for a major-ALS gene (N-ALS). A random effects meta-analytic model was applied to clinical data extracted encompassing sex, site and age of onset. To reconstruct individual patient survival data, the published Kaplan-Meier curves were digitized. Data were measured as odds ratio (OR) or standardized mean difference (SMD) as appropriate. Median survival was compared between groups. RESULTS Twenty studies met the inclusion criteria. We identified 721 SOD1-ALS, 470 C9-ALS, 183 TARDBP-ALS, 113 FUS-ALS and 2824 N-ALS. SOD1-ALS showed a higher rate of spinal onset compared with N-ALS and C9-ALS (OR = 4.85, 95% CI = 3.04-7.76; OR = 10.47, 95% CI = 4.32-27.87) and an earlier onset compared with N-ALS (SMD = - 0.45, 95% CI = - 0.72 to - 0.18). SOD1-ALS had a similar survival compared with N-ALS (p = 0.14), a longer survival compared with C9-ALS (p < 0.01) and FUS-ALS (p = 0.019) and a shorter survival compared with TARDBP-ALS (p < 0.01). DISCUSSION This study indicates the presence of a specific SOD1-ALS phenotype. Insights in SOD1-ALS clinical features are important in genetic counseling, disease prognosis and support patients' stratification in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teuta Domi
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Paride Schito
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina, 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Giacomo Sferruzza
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina, 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Tommaso Russo
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina, 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Pozzi
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Agosta
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina, 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Carrera
- Unit of Genomics for Human Disease Diagnosis, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, Laboratory of Clinical Molecular Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Nilo Riva
- 3rd Neurology Unit and Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Filippi
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina, 60, 20132, Milan, Italy.
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
- Neurophysiology Service, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
| | - Angelo Quattrini
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Yuri Matteo Falzone
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina, 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
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11
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Bruno A, Milillo C, Anaclerio F, Buccolini C, Dell’Elice A, Angilletta I, Gatta M, Ballerini P, Antonucci I. Perinatal Tissue-Derived Stem Cells: An Emerging Therapeutic Strategy for Challenging Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:976. [PMID: 38256050 PMCID: PMC10815412 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past 20 years, stem cell therapy has been considered a promising option for treating numerous disorders, in particular, neurodegenerative disorders. Stem cells exert neuroprotective and neurodegenerative benefits through different mechanisms, such as the secretion of neurotrophic factors, cell replacement, the activation of endogenous stem cells, and decreased neuroinflammation. Several sources of stem cells have been proposed for transplantation and the restoration of damaged tissue. Over recent decades, intensive research has focused on gestational stem cells considered a novel resource for cell transplantation therapy. The present review provides an update on the recent preclinical/clinical applications of gestational stem cells for the treatment of protein-misfolding diseases including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, further studies should be encouraged to translate this promising therapeutic approach into the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Bruno
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.B.); (C.M.); (C.B.); (A.D.); (I.A.)
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Cristina Milillo
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.B.); (C.M.); (C.B.); (A.D.); (I.A.)
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Federico Anaclerio
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.B.); (C.M.); (C.B.); (A.D.); (I.A.)
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Carlotta Buccolini
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.B.); (C.M.); (C.B.); (A.D.); (I.A.)
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Anastasia Dell’Elice
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.B.); (C.M.); (C.B.); (A.D.); (I.A.)
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Ilaria Angilletta
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.B.); (C.M.); (C.B.); (A.D.); (I.A.)
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Marco Gatta
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.B.); (C.M.); (C.B.); (A.D.); (I.A.)
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Patrizia Ballerini
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.B.); (C.M.); (C.B.); (A.D.); (I.A.)
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Ivana Antonucci
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (A.B.); (C.M.); (C.B.); (A.D.); (I.A.)
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
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12
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Hamad AA, Amer BE, Al Mawla AM, Goufa E, Abdelwahab MM, Serag I. Clinical characteristics, course, and outcomes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis overlapping with pregnancy: a systematic review of 38 published cases. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:4219-4231. [PMID: 37587387 PMCID: PMC10641051 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-06994-4] [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: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disease that can overlap with pregnancy, but little is known about its clinical characteristics, course, and outcomes in this context. This systematic review aimed to synthesize the current evidence on ALS overlapping with pregnancy. METHODS We comprehensively searched four databases on February 2, 2023, to identify case studies reporting cases of ALS overlapping with pregnancy. Joanna Brigs Institute tool was followed to assess the quality of the included studies. RESULTS Twenty-six articles reporting 38 cases were identified and included in our study. Out of the 38 cases, 18 were aged < 30 years. The onset of ALS was before pregnancy in 18 cases, during pregnancy in 16 cases, and directly after pregnancy in 4 cases. ALS progression course was rapid or severe in 55% of the cases during pregnancy, and this percentage reached 61% in cases with an onset of ALS before pregnancy. While ALS progression course after pregnancy was rapid or severe in 63% and stable in 37% of the cases. Most cases (95%) were able to complete the pregnancy and gave live birth. However, preterm delivery was common. For neonates, 86% were healthy without any complications. CONCLUSION While pregnancy with ALS is likely to survive and result in giving birth to healthy infants, it could be associated with rapid or severe progression of ALS and result in a worse prognosis, highlighting the importance of close monitoring and counselling for patients and healthcare providers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Basma Ehab Amer
- Medical Research Group of Egypt, Negida Academy, Arlington, MA, USA
- Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Aya Mustafa Al Mawla
- Medical Research Group of Egypt, Negida Academy, Arlington, MA, USA
- Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Elarbi Goufa
- Medical Research Group of Egypt, Negida Academy, Arlington, MA, USA
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oran 1 - Ahmed Ben Bella, Oran, Algeria
| | - Maya Magdy Abdelwahab
- Medical Research Group of Egypt, Negida Academy, Arlington, MA, USA
- Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim Serag
- Medical Research Group of Egypt, Negida Academy, Arlington, MA, USA
- Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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13
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Ortholand J, Pradat PF, Tezenas du Montcel S, Durrleman S. Interaction of sex and onset site on the disease trajectory of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurol 2023; 270:5903-5912. [PMID: 37615751 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11932-7] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies showed the impact of sex and onset site (spinal or bulbar) on disease onset and survival in ALS. However, they mainly result from cross-sectional or survival analysis, and the interaction of sex and onset site on the different proxies of disease trajectory has not been fully investigated. METHODS We selected all patients with repeated observations in the PRO-ACT database. We divided them into four groups depending on their sex and onset site. We estimated a multivariate disease progression model, named ALS Course Map, to investigate the combined temporal changes of the four sub-scores of the revised ALS functional rating scale (ALSFRSr), the forced vital capacity (FVC), and the body mass index (BMI). We then compared the progression rate, the estimated age at onset, and the relative progression of the outcomes across each group. RESULTS We included 1438 patients from the PRO-ACT database. They were 51% men with spinal onset, 12% men with bulbar onset, 26% women with spinal onset, and 11% women with bulbar onset. We showed a significant influence of both sex and onset site on the ALSFRSr progression. The BMI decreased 8.9 months earlier (95% CI [3.9, 13.8]) in women than men, after correction for the onset site. Among patients with bulbar onset, FVC was impaired 2.6 months earlier (95% CI [0.6, 4.6]) in women. CONCLUSION Using a multivariable disease modelling approach, we showed that sex and onset site are important drivers of the progression of motor function, BMI, and FVC decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliette Ortholand
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau, Paris Brain Institute, ICM, CNRS, InriaInserm, AP-HP, Hôpital de La Pitié Salpêtrière, 75013, Paris, France.
| | - Pierre-François Pradat
- Laboratoire d'Imagerie Biomédicale, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, Paris, France
- APHP, Département de Neurologie, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Centre Référent SLA, Paris, France
- Northern Ireland Centre for Stratified Medicine, Biomedical Sciences Research Institute Ulster University, C-TRIC, Altnagelvin Hospital, Derry, Londonderry, UK
| | - Sophie Tezenas du Montcel
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau, Paris Brain Institute, ICM, CNRS, InriaInserm, AP-HP, Hôpital de La Pitié Salpêtrière, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Stanley Durrleman
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau, Paris Brain Institute, ICM, CNRS, InriaInserm, AP-HP, Hôpital de La Pitié Salpêtrière, 75013, Paris, France
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14
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Kioutchoukova IP, Foster DT, Thakkar RN, Foreman MA, Burgess BJ, Toms RM, Molina Valero EE, Lucke-Wold B. Neurologic orphan diseases: Emerging innovations and role for genetic treatments. World J Exp Med 2023; 13:59-74. [PMID: 37767543 PMCID: PMC10520757 DOI: 10.5493/wjem.v13.i4.59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Orphan diseases are rare diseases that affect less than 200000 individuals within the United States. Most orphan diseases are of neurologic and genetic origin. With the current advances in technology, more funding has been devoted to developing therapeutic agents for patients with these conditions. In our review, we highlight emerging options for patients with neurologic orphan diseases, specifically including diseases resulting in muscular deterioration, epilepsy, seizures, neurodegenerative movement disorders, inhibited cognitive development, neuron deterioration, and tumors. After extensive literature review, gene therapy offers a promising route for the treatment of neurologic orphan diseases. The use of clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats/Cas9 has demonstrated positive results in experiments investigating its role in several diseases. Additionally, the use of adeno-associated viral vectors has shown improvement in survival, motor function, and developmental milestones, while also demonstrating reversal of sensory ataxia and cardiomyopathy in Friedreich ataxia patients. Antisense oligonucleotides have also been used in some neurologic orphan diseases with positive outcomes. Mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors are currently being investigated and have reduced abnormal cell growth, proliferation, and angiogenesis. Emerging innovations and the role of genetic treatments open a new window of opportunity for the treatment of neurologic orphan diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Devon T Foster
- Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Miami, FL 33199, United States
| | - Rajvi N Thakkar
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Marco A Foreman
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Brandon J Burgess
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Rebecca M Toms
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | | | - Brandon Lucke-Wold
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
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15
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DuMont M, Agostinis A, Singh K, Swan E, Buttle Y, Tropea D. Sex representation in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders' preclinical and clinical studies. Neurobiol Dis 2023:106214. [PMID: 37385457 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Many studies show the importance of biological sex for the onset, progression, and response to treatment in brain disorders. In line with these reports, health agencies have requested that all trials, both at the clinical and preclinical level, use a similar number of male and female subjects to correctly interpret the results. Despite these guidelines, many studies still tend to be unbalanced in the use of male and female subjects. In this review we consider three neurodegenerative disorders: Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and three psychiatric disorders: Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Schizophrenia. These disorders were chosen because of their prevalence and their recognized sex-specific differences in onset, progression, and response to treatment. Alzheimer's disease and Depression demonstrate higher prevalence in females, whereas Parkinson's Disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and schizophrenia show higher prevalence in males. Results from preclinical and clinical studies examining each of these disorders revealed sex-specific differences in risk factors, diagnostic biomarkers, and treatment response and efficacy, suggesting a role for sex-specific therapies in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. However, the qualitative analysis of the percentage of males and females enrolled in clinical trials in the last two decades shows that for most of the disorders, there is still a sex bias in the patients' enrolment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mieke DuMont
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Kiran Singh
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Evan Swan
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Yvonne Buttle
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daniela Tropea
- Department of Psychiatry and Trinity Translational Medicine Institute (TTMI), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Lloyd Building, Dublin 2, Dublin, Ireland; FutureNeuro, the SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases.
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16
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Ramzan F, Abrar F, Mishra GG, Liao LMQ, Martin DDO. Lost in traffic: consequences of altered palmitoylation in neurodegeneration. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1166125. [PMID: 37324388 PMCID: PMC10268010 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1166125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the first molecular events in neurodegenerative diseases, regardless of etiology, is protein mislocalization. Protein mislocalization in neurons is often linked to proteostasis deficiencies leading to the build-up of misfolded proteins and/or organelles that contributes to cellular toxicity and cell death. By understanding how proteins mislocalize in neurons, we can develop novel therapeutics that target the earliest stages of neurodegeneration. A critical mechanism regulating protein localization and proteostasis in neurons is the protein-lipid modification S-acylation, the reversible addition of fatty acids to cysteine residues. S-acylation is more commonly referred to as S-palmitoylation or simply palmitoylation, which is the addition of the 16-carbon fatty acid palmitate to proteins. Like phosphorylation, palmitoylation is highly dynamic and tightly regulated by writers (i.e., palmitoyl acyltransferases) and erasers (i.e., depalmitoylating enzymes). The hydrophobic fatty acid anchors proteins to membranes; thus, the reversibility allows proteins to be re-directed to and from membranes based on local signaling factors. This is particularly important in the nervous system, where axons (output projections) can be meters long. Any disturbance in protein trafficking can have dire consequences. Indeed, many proteins involved in neurodegenerative diseases are palmitoylated, and many more have been identified in palmitoyl-proteomic studies. It follows that palmitoyl acyl transferase enzymes have also been implicated in numerous diseases. In addition, palmitoylation can work in concert with cellular mechanisms, like autophagy, to affect cell health and protein modifications, such as acetylation, nitrosylation, and ubiquitination, to affect protein function and turnover. Limited studies have further revealed a sexually dimorphic pattern of protein palmitoylation. Therefore, palmitoylation can have wide-reaching consequences in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Dominov JA, Madigan LA, Whitt JP, Rademacher KL, Webster KM, Zhang H, Banno H, Tang S, Zhang Y, Wightman N, Shychuck EM, Page J, Weiss A, Kelly K, Kucukural A, Brodsky MH, Jaworski A, Fallon JR, Lipscombe D, Brown RH. Up-regulation of cholesterol synthesis pathways and limited neurodegeneration in a knock-in Sod1 mutant mouse model of ALS. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.05.539444. [PMID: 37205335 PMCID: PMC10187330 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.05.539444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe neurodegenerative disorder affecting brain and spinal cord motor neurons. Mutations in the copper/zinc superoxide dismutase gene ( SOD1 ) are associated with ∼20% of inherited and 1-2% of sporadic ALS cases. Much has been learned from mice expressing transgenic copies of mutant SOD1, which typically involve high-level transgene expression, thereby differing from ALS patients expressing one mutant gene copy. To generate a model that more closely represents patient gene expression, we created a knock-in point mutation (G85R, a human ALS-causing mutation) in the endogenous mouse Sod1 gene, leading to mutant SOD1 G85R protein expression. Heterozygous Sod1 G85R mutant mice resemble wild type, whereas homozygous mutants have reduced body weight and lifespan, a mild neurodegenerative phenotype, and express very low mutant SOD1 protein levels with no detectable SOD1 activity. Homozygous mutants exhibit partial neuromuscular junction denervation at 3-4 months of age. Spinal cord motor neuron transcriptome analyses of homozygous Sod1 G85R mice revealed up-regulation of cholesterol synthesis pathway genes compared to wild type. Transcriptome and phenotypic features of these mice are similar to Sod1 knock-out mice, suggesting the Sod1 G85R phenotype is largely driven by loss of SOD1 function. By contrast, cholesterol synthesis genes are down-regulated in severely affected human TgSOD1 G93A transgenic mice at 4 months. Our analyses implicate dysregulation of cholesterol or related lipid pathway genes in ALS pathogenesis. The Sod1 G85R knock-in mouse is a useful ALS model to examine the importance of SOD1 activity in control of cholesterol homeostasis and motor neuron survival. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a devastating disease involving the progressive loss of motor neurons and motor function for which there is currently no cure. Understanding biological mechanisms leading to motor neuron death is critical for developing new treatments. Using a new knock-in mutant mouse model carrying a Sod1 mutation that causes ALS in patients, and in the mouse, causes a limited neurodegenerative phenotype similar to Sod1 loss-of-function, we show that cholesterol synthesis pathway genes are up-regulated in mutant motor neurons, whereas the same genes are down-regulated in transgenic SOD1 mice with a severe phenotype. Our data implicate dysregulation of cholesterol or other related lipid genes in ALS pathogenesis and provide new insights that could contribute to strategies for disease intervention.
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Nicoletti A, Baschi R, Cicero CE, Iacono S, Re VL, Luca A, Schirò G, Monastero R. Sex and gender differences in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: a narrative review. Mech Ageing Dev 2023; 212:111821. [PMID: 37127082 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2023.111821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), exhibit high phenotypic variability and they are very common in the general population. These diseases are associated with poor prognosis and a significant burden on patients and their caregivers. Although increasing evidence suggests that biological sex is an important factor for the development and phenotypical expression of some NDs, the role of sex and gender in the diagnosis and prognosis of NDs has been poorly explored. Current knowledge relating to sex- and gender-related differences in the epidemiology, clinical features, biomarkers, and treatment of AD, PD, and ALS will be summarized in this narrative review. The cumulative evidence hitherto collected suggests that sex and gender are factors to be considered in explaining the heterogeneity of these NDs. Clarifying the role of sex and gender in AD, PD, and ALS is a key topic in precision medicine, which will facilitate sex-specific prevention and treatment strategies to be implemented in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Nicoletti
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy.
| | - Roberta Baschi
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BiND), University of Palermo, Via La Loggia 1, 90129 Palermo, Italy
| | - Calogero Edoardo Cicero
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Iacono
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BiND), University of Palermo, Via La Loggia 1, 90129 Palermo, Italy
| | - Vincenzina Lo Re
- Neurology Service, Mediterranean Institute for Transplantation and Advanced Specialized Therapies (IRCCS-ISMETT), Via Ernesto Tricomi 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy; Women's Brain Project, Guntershausen, Switzerland
| | - Antonina Luca
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Schirò
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BiND), University of Palermo, Via La Loggia 1, 90129 Palermo, Italy
| | - Roberto Monastero
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics (BiND), University of Palermo, Via La Loggia 1, 90129 Palermo, Italy.
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Al-Zamil M, Shnayder NA, Davydova TK, Nasyrova RF, Trefilova VV, Narodova EA, Petrova MM, Romanova IV, Chumakova GA. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Mimic Syndrome in a 24-Year-Old Man with Chiari 1 Malformation and Syringomyelia: A Clinical Case. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12082932. [PMID: 37109269 PMCID: PMC10143794 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12082932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chiari 1 Malformation (CM1) is classically defined as a caudal displacement of the cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum into the spinal cord. Modern imaging techniques and experimental studies disclose a different etiology for the development of CM1, but the main etiology factor is a structural defect in the skull as a deformity or partial reduction, which push down the lower part of the brain and cause the cerebellum to compress into the spinal canal. CM1 is classified as a rare disease. CM1 can present with a wide variety of symptoms, also non-specific, with consequent controversies on diagnosis and surgical decision-making, particularly in asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic. Other disorders, such as syringomyelia (Syr), hydrocephalus, and craniocervical instability can be associated at the time of the diagnosis or appear secondarily. Therefore, CM1-related Syr is defined as a single or multiple fluid-filled cavities within the spinal cord and/or the bulb. A rare CM1-related disorder is syndrome of lateral amyotrophic sclerosis (ALS mimic syndrome). We present a unique clinical case of ALS mimic syndrome in a young man with CM1 and a huge singular syringomyelic cyst with a length from segment C2 to Th12. At the same time, the clinical picture showed upper hypotonic-atrophic paraparesis in the absence of motor disorders in the lower extremities. Interestingly, this patient did not have a disorder of superficial and deep types of sensitivity. This made it difficult to diagnose CM1. For a long time, the patient's symptoms were regarded as a manifestation of ALS, as an independent neurological disease, and not as a related disorder of CM1. Surgical treatment for CM1 was not effective, but it allowed to stabilize the course of CM1-related ALS mimic syndrome over the next two years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Al-Zamil
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Continuing Medical Education, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, 117198 Moscow, Russia
| | - Natalia A Shnayder
- Institute of Personalized Psychiatry and Neurology, V.M. Bekhterev National Medical Research Centre for Psychiatry and Neurology, 192019 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Shared Core Facilities "Molecular and Cell Technologies", V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Tatiana K Davydova
- Department of Neurogenerative Disorders, Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems, 677000 Yakutsk, Russia
| | - Regina F Nasyrova
- Institute of Personalized Psychiatry and Neurology, V.M. Bekhterev National Medical Research Centre for Psychiatry and Neurology, 192019 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | | | - Ekaterina A Narodova
- Shared Core Facilities "Molecular and Cell Technologies", V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Marina M Petrova
- Shared Core Facilities "Molecular and Cell Technologies", V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Irina V Romanova
- Shared Core Facilities "Molecular and Cell Technologies", V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Galina A Chumakova
- Department of Therapy and General Medical Practice with a Course of Postgraduate Professional Education, Altai State Medical University, 656038 Barnaul, Russia
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Chen L, Wang N, Zhang Y, Li D, He C, Li Z, Zhang J, Guo Y. Proteomics analysis indicates the involvement of immunity and inflammation in the onset stage of SOD1-G93A mouse model of ALS. J Proteomics 2023; 272:104776. [PMID: 36423857 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2022.104776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal motor neuron degenerative disease, and the pathogenic mechanism that underlies ALS is still unclear. We analyzed the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in the spinal cord between SOD1-G93A transgenic mice at the onset stage and non-transgenic (NTG) littermates based on 4D label-free quantitative proteomics (4D-LFQ) with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). In our study, 189 DEPs were screened, of which 166 were up-regulated and 23 down-regulated. Clusters of Orthologous Groups (COG)/ EuKaryotic Orthologous Groups (KOG) classification, subcellular localization annotation, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment, clustering analysis and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analyses were performed. Parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) analysis validated 48 proteins from immunity and inflammation-related pathways of KEGG. We described the function and distribution of DEPs, most of which were involved in the following pathways: complement and coagulation cascades, antigen processing and presentation, NF-kappa B signaling pathway, Retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG) -I-like receptor signaling pathway, the extracellular matrix-receptor (ECM-receptor) interaction, focal adhesion, phagosome and lysosome. PPI network analysis identified Fn1, Fga, Serpina1e and Serpina3n as potential biomarkers. Our discoveries broaden the view and expand our understanding of immunity and inflammation in ALS. SIGNIFICANCE: This study gives a comprehensive description of DEPs in the spinal cord proteomics of SOD1-G93A mice at the onset period. Compared with a previous study focusing on progressive stage, we showed that immunity and inflammation play an important role at the onset stage of ALS. Several pathways validated by PRM bring new insight to the pathological mechanisms of ALS. The participation of RIG-I-like signaling pathway in ALS and potential biomarkers Fga, Fn1, Serpina1e and Serpina3n are supplements to existing knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Chen
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China; Beijing Geriatric Healthcare Center, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 45 Changchun Street, Xicheng District, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Ningyuan Wang
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, No.172 Tongzipo Road, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Yingzhen Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Dongxiao Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Caili He
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Zhongzhong Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Yansu Guo
- Beijing Geriatric Healthcare Center, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 45 Changchun Street, Xicheng District, Beijing 100053, China; Beijing Municipal Geriatric Medical Research Center, No. 45 Changchun Street, Xicheng District, Beijing 100053, China.
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21
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Factors predicting disease progression in C9ORF72 ALS patients. J Neurol 2023; 270:877-890. [PMID: 36280624 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11426-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To unveil clinical features, comorbidities, disease progression and prognostic factors in a population-based cohort of ALS patients carrying C9ORF72 expansion (C9 + ALS). METHODS This is a retrospective observational study on ALS patients residing in Emilia Romagna and Piedmont-Valle D'Aosta regions whose data are available through population based registers. We analysed patients who underwent genetic testing, focusing on C9 + ALS subgroup. RESULTS Among 2204 genotyped patients of the two registers, 150 were C9 + ALS. In comparison with patients without mutation, a higher proportion of family history (12.85 vs 68%, p < 0.001) and frontotemporal dementia (3.93% vs 10.67%, p < 0.001) was detected in C9 + ALS. C9 + ALS presented a faster disease progression as measured by monthly decline in ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (1.86 ± 3.30 vs 1.45 ± 2.35, p < 0.01) and in forced vital capacity (5.90 ± 5.24 vs 2.97 ± 3.47, p < 0.01), a shorter diagnostic delay (8.93 ± 6.74 vs 12.68 ± 12.86 months, p < 0.01) and earlier onset (58.91 ± 9.02 vs 65.04 ± 11.55 years, p < 0.01). Consistently, they reached death or tracheostomy earlier than other patients (31 vs 37 months, HR = 1.52, 95% C.I. 1.27-1.82, p < 0.001). With respect to other genotyped patients, C9 + ALS patients did not present a significantly higher prevalence of concomitant diseases. Independent prognostic factors of survival of C9 + ALS included sex, age, progression rate, presence of frontotemporal dementia and thyroid disorders, with the latter being associated with prolonged ALS survival (43 vs 29 months, HR = 0.42, 95% C.I. 0.24-0.74, p = 0.003). CONCLUSION Even in the context of a more aggressive disease, C9 + ALS had a longer survival in presence of thyroid disorders. This finding may suggest protective pathogenic pathways in C9 + ALS to be explored, looking for therapeutic strategies to slow disease course.
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Nona RJ, Xu Z, Robinson GA, Henderson RD, McCombe PA. Age of Onset and Length of Survival of Queensland Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Details of Subjects with Early Onset and Subjects with Long Survival. NEURODEGENER DIS 2022; 22:104-121. [PMID: 36587610 PMCID: PMC10627495 DOI: 10.1159/000528875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aims of the study were to document the characteristics of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients in Queensland, to examine factors influencing age of onset, and survival, and to study those with early-onset (<45 years) disease and those with long (>5 years) survival. METHODS We studied subjects seen at the ALS Clinic at the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital. We recorded sex, age of onset, region of onset, length of survival, presence of family history, type of disease, and evidence of cognitive involvement. We analysed the influence of these features on age of onset and survival. We analysed the features of patients with early onset of disease and patients with long survival. RESULTS There were 855 ALS patients (505 males) in the cohort. The age of onset was lower in males than females, in patients with a family history of ALS compared to those without, and in patients with spinal onset compared to bulbar onset. Early-onset disease was seen in 10% of patients, and had a greater proportion of males, spinal onset, and classical ALS phenotype compared to late-onset disease. Survival was shorter in females, in patients with bulbar onset, and in patients with classical ALS. Long survival was seen in 18% of patients. Patients with long survival had younger age of onset, greater proportion of males, spinal onset, and fewer patients with classical ALS. CONCLUSION Our study confirms that ALS is more prevalent in males and that spinal onset is more common than bulbar onset. Males have earlier onset but longer survival. We found that overall, patients with classical ALS have worse survival than ALS variants, but some patients who were considered to have classical ALS had long survival. This study confirms the similarity of ALS in our region to ALS in other geographical regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Nona
- Centre for Clinical Research, University of Queensland, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Zhouwei Xu
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Gail A. Robinson
- Queensland Brain Institute and School of Psychology, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Robert D. Henderson
- Centre for Clinical Research, University of Queensland, Herston, Queensland, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Pamela A. McCombe
- Centre for Clinical Research, University of Queensland, Herston, Queensland, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia
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23
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Liu Y, Xing H, Ernst AF, Liu C, Maugee C, Yokoi F, Lakshmana M, Li Y. Hyperactivity of Purkinje cell and motor deficits in C9orf72 knockout mice. Mol Cell Neurosci 2022; 121:103756. [PMID: 35843530 PMCID: PMC10369482 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2022.103756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A hexanucleotide (GGGGCC) repeat expansion in the first intron of the C9ORF72 gene is the most frequently reported genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The cerebellum has not traditionally been thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of C9ORF72-associated ALS/FTD, but recent evidence suggested a potential role. C9ORF72 is highly expressed in the cerebellum. Decreased C9ORF72 transcript and protein levels were detected in the postmortem cerebellum, suggesting a loss-of-function effect of C9ORF72 mutation. This study investigated the role of loss of C9ORF72 function using a C9orf72 knockout mouse line. C9orf72 deficiency led to motor impairment in rotarod, beam-walking, paw-print, open-field, and grip-strength tests. Purkinje cells are the sole output neurons in the cerebellum, and we next determined their involvement in the motor phenotypes. We found hyperactivity of Purkinje cells in the C9orf72 knockout mouse accompanied by a significant increase of the large-conductance calcium-activated potassium channel (BK) protein in the cerebellum. The link between BK and Purkinje cell firing was demonstrated by the acute application of the BK activator that increased the firing frequency of the Purkinje cells ex vivo. In vivo chemogenetic activation of Purkinje cells in wild-type mice led to similar motor deficits in rotarod and beam-walking tests. Our results highlight that C9ORF72 loss alters the activity of the Purkinje cell and potentially the pathogenesis of the disease. Manipulating the Purkinje cell firing or cerebellar output may contribute to C9ORF72-associated ALS/FTD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuning Liu
- Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States; Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Hong Xing
- Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Alexis F Ernst
- Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Canna Liu
- Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Christian Maugee
- Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States; Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Fumiaki Yokoi
- Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Madepalli Lakshmana
- Department of Immunology and Nano-Medicine, The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Yuqing Li
- Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States.
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24
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Yang B, Huang S, Zheng Y, Hou X, Lin J, Peng Y, Du B, Yao X. Fertility Does Not Alter Disease Progression in ALS Patients of Childbearing Age: A Three Centers Retrospective Analysis in Southern China. Front Neurol 2022; 13:895321. [PMID: 35847202 PMCID: PMC9279572 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.895321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Limited data exists on the clinical features of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) during reproductive ages. Objective Our study characterized the clinical features of ALS and the effects of pregnancy on disease progression in patients with ALS. Methods We performed a retrospective study of female patients with ALS in three ALS research centers in southern China from 2009 to 2021. Data regarding fertility status, and clinical and genetic features, were collected. Age-matched male patients with ALS served as controls. The patients were divided into the following two subgroups: patients with symptom onset within 1 year of pregnancy and patients with symptom onset over 1 year group after pregnancy. Results A total of 52 female and 52 matched male patients were enrolled. There were no differences in female and male patients in the mean age of symptom onset, the mean baseline ALSFRS-R score, or median reduction of ALSFRS-R score (p > 0.05). The mean age of first pregnancy was 25.57 ± 4.40) years. The mean age of first pregnancy in the over 1 year group was lower than that in the within 1 year group (p= 0.01). There was no difference in the median reduction of ALSFRS-R between the two subgroups. In the univariate analysis, diagnostic delay was highly correlated with the disease progression, with short delay representing rapid progress. No multicollinearity was found among every variable. In addition, 40.38% patients carried ALS-related gene variants. The proportion with gene mutations in the within 1 year group was higher than that in the over 1 year group (p < 0.01). Furthermore, SETX was the most frequently mutated gene in this cohort (16.67%) including 4 uncertain mutation. Conclusion Pregnancy and fertility were not associated with disease progression. Diagnostic delay was correlated with disease progression in this cohort. In addition, SETX might be a gene of concern for ALS patients of childbearing age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biying Yang
- Department of Neurology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sen Huang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Zheng
- Department of Neurology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaomei Hou
- Department of Neurology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianing Lin
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Peng
- Department of Neurology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Baoxin Du
| | - Baoxin Du
- Department of Neurology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Yu Peng
| | - Xiaoli Yao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Guangzhou, China
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25
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McKenna MC, Tahedl M, Lope J, Chipika RH, Li Hi Shing S, Doherty MA, Hengeveld JC, Vajda A, McLaughlin RL, Hardiman O, Hutchinson S, Bede P. Mapping cortical disease-burden at individual-level in frontotemporal dementia: implications for clinical care and pharmacological trials. Brain Imaging Behav 2022; 16:1196-1207. [PMID: 34882275 PMCID: PMC9107414 DOI: 10.1007/s11682-021-00523-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Imaging studies of FTD typically present group-level statistics between large cohorts of genetically, molecularly or clinically stratified patients. Group-level statistics are indispensable to appraise unifying radiological traits and describe genotype-associated signatures in academic studies. However, in a clinical setting, the primary objective is the meaningful interpretation of imaging data from individual patients to assist diagnostic classification, inform prognosis, and enable the assessment of progressive changes compared to baseline scans. In an attempt to address the pragmatic demands of clinical imaging, a prospective computational neuroimaging study was undertaken in a cohort of patients across the spectrum of FTD phenotypes. Cortical changes were evaluated in a dual pipeline, using standard cortical thickness analyses and an individualised, z-score based approach to characterise subject-level disease burden. Phenotype-specific patterns of cortical atrophy were readily detected with both methodological approaches. Consistent with their clinical profiles, patients with bvFTD exhibited orbitofrontal, cingulate and dorsolateral prefrontal atrophy. Patients with ALS-FTD displayed precentral gyrus involvement, nfvPPA patients showed widespread cortical degeneration including insular and opercular regions and patients with svPPA exhibited relatively focal anterior temporal lobe atrophy. Cortical atrophy patterns were reliably detected in single individuals, and these maps were consistent with the clinical categorisation. Our preliminary data indicate that standard T1-weighted structural data from single patients may be utilised to generate maps of cortical atrophy. While the computational interpretation of single scans is challenging, it offers unrivalled insights compared to visual inspection. The quantitative evaluation of individual MRI data may aid diagnostic classification, clinical decision making, and assessing longitudinal changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Clare McKenna
- Computational Neuroimaging Group, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Marlene Tahedl
- Computational Neuroimaging Group, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Institute for Psychology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Jasmin Lope
- Computational Neuroimaging Group, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Rangariroyashe H Chipika
- Computational Neuroimaging Group, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Stacey Li Hi Shing
- Computational Neuroimaging Group, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mark A Doherty
- Complex Trait Genomics Laboratory, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jennifer C Hengeveld
- Complex Trait Genomics Laboratory, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Alice Vajda
- Complex Trait Genomics Laboratory, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Russell L McLaughlin
- Complex Trait Genomics Laboratory, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Orla Hardiman
- Computational Neuroimaging Group, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Peter Bede
- Computational Neuroimaging Group, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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Li JY, Cui LY, Sun XH, Shen DC, Yang XZ, Liu Q, Liu MS. Alterations in metabolic biomarkers and their potential role in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2022; 9:1027-1038. [PMID: 35584112 PMCID: PMC9268864 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Metabolic dysfunction has been suggested to be involved in the pathophysiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This study aimed to investigate the potential role of metabolic biomarkers in the progression of ALS and understand the possible metabolic mechanisms. Methods Fifty‐two patients with ALS and 24 normal controls were included, and blood samples were collected for analysis of metabolic biomarkers. Basal anthropometric measures, including body composition and clinical features, were measured in ALS patients. The disease progression rate was calculated using the revised ALS functional rating scale (ALSFRS‐R) during the 6‐month follow‐up. Results ALS patients had higher levels of adipokines (adiponectin, adipsin, resistin, and visfatin) and other metabolic biomarkers [C‐peptide, glucagon, glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1), gastric inhibitory peptide, and plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1] than controls. Leptin levels in serum were positively correlated with body mass index, body fat, and visceral fat index (VFI). Adiponectin was positively correlated with the VFI and showed a positive correlation with the ALSFRS‐R and a negative correlation with baseline disease progression. Patients with lower body fat, VFI, and fat in limbs showed faster disease progression during follow‐ups. Lower leptin and adiponectin levels were correlated with faster disease progression. After adjusting for confounders, lower adiponectin levels and higher visfatin levels were independently correlated with faster disease progression. Interpretation The current study found altered levels of metabolic biomarkers in ALS patients, which may play a role in ALS pathogenesis. Adiponectin and visfatin represent potential biomarkers for prediction of disease progression in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Yue Li
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Ying Cui
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xiao-Han Sun
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Dong-Chao Shen
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xun-Zhe Yang
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ming-Sheng Liu
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Verdone BM, Cicardi ME, Wen X, Sriramoji S, Russell K, Markandaiah SS, Jensen BK, Krishnamurthy K, Haeusler AR, Pasinelli P, Trotti D. A mouse model with widespread expression of the C9orf72-linked glycine-arginine dipeptide displays non-lethal ALS/FTD-like phenotypes. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5644. [PMID: 35379876 PMCID: PMC8979946 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09593-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Translation of the hexanucleotide G4C2 expansion associated with C9orf72 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia (ALS/FTD) produces five different dipeptide repeat protein (DPR) species that can confer toxicity. There is yet much to learn about the contribution of a single DPR to disease pathogenesis. We show here that a short repeat length is sufficient for the DPR poly-GR to confer neurotoxicity in vitro, a phenomenon previously unobserved. This toxicity is also reported in vivo in our novel knock-in mouse model characterized by widespread central nervous system (CNS) expression of the short-length poly-GR. We observe sex-specific chronic ALS/FTD-like phenotypes in these mice, including mild motor neuron loss, but no TDP-43 mis-localization, as well as motor and cognitive impairments. We suggest that this model can serve as the foundation for phenotypic exacerbation through second-hit forms of stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandie Morris Verdone
- Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Maria Elena Cicardi
- Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Xinmei Wen
- Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sindhu Sriramoji
- Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Katelyn Russell
- Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Shashirekha S Markandaiah
- Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Brigid K Jensen
- Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Karthik Krishnamurthy
- Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Aaron R Haeusler
- Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Piera Pasinelli
- Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Davide Trotti
- Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Gianferrari G, Martinelli I, Zucchi E, Simonini C, Fini N, Vinceti M, Ferro S, Gessani A, Canali E, Valzania F, Sette E, Pugliatti M, Tugnoli V, Zinno L, Stano S, Santangelo M, De Pasqua S, Terlizzi E, Guidetti D, Medici D, Salvi F, Liguori R, Vacchiano V, Casmiro M, Querzani P, Currò Dossi M, Patuelli A, Morresi S, Longoni M, De Massis P, Rinaldi R, Borghi A, Amedei A, Mandrioli J. Epidemiological, Clinical and Genetic Features of ALS in the Last Decade: A Prospective Population-Based Study in the Emilia Romagna Region of Italy. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040819. [PMID: 35453569 PMCID: PMC9031824 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased incidence rates of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) have been recently reported across various Western countries, although geographic and temporal variations in terms of incidence, clinical features and genetics are not fully elucidated. This study aimed to describe demographic, clinical feature and genotype–phenotype correlations of ALS cases over the last decade in the Emilia Romagna Region (ERR). From 2009 to 2019, our prospective population-based registry of ALS in the ERR of Northern Italy recorded 1613 patients receiving a diagnosis of ALS. The age- and sex-adjusted incidence rate was 3.13/100,000 population (M/F ratio: 1.21). The mean age at onset was 67.01 years; women, bulbar and respiratory phenotypes were associated with an older age, while C9orf72-mutated patients were generally younger. After peaking at 70–75 years, incidence rates, among women only, showed a bimodal distribution with a second slight increase after reaching 90 years of age. Familial cases comprised 12%, of which one quarter could be attributed to an ALS-related mutation. More than 70% of C9orf72-expanded patients had a family history of ALS/fronto-temporal dementia (FTD); 22.58% of patients with FTD at diagnosis had C9orf72 expansion (OR 6.34, p = 0.004). In addition to a high ALS incidence suggesting exhaustiveness of case ascertainment, this study highlights interesting phenotype–genotype correlations in the ALS population of ERR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Gianferrari
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.G.); (M.V.); (J.M.)
| | - Ilaria Martinelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy; (E.Z.); (C.S.); (N.F.); (A.G.)
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine Ph.D. Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-05-9396-1640; Fax: +39-05-9396-3775
| | - Elisabetta Zucchi
- Department of Neurosciences, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy; (E.Z.); (C.S.); (N.F.); (A.G.)
| | - Cecilia Simonini
- Department of Neurosciences, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy; (E.Z.); (C.S.); (N.F.); (A.G.)
| | - Nicola Fini
- Department of Neurosciences, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy; (E.Z.); (C.S.); (N.F.); (A.G.)
| | - Marco Vinceti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.G.); (M.V.); (J.M.)
- Department of Science of Public Health, Research Centre in Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Salvatore Ferro
- Department of Hospital Services, Emilia Romagna Regional Health Authority, 40127 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Annalisa Gessani
- Department of Neurosciences, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy; (E.Z.); (C.S.); (N.F.); (A.G.)
| | - Elena Canali
- Neurology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, AUSL-IRCCS Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (E.C.); (F.V.)
| | - Franco Valzania
- Neurology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, AUSL-IRCCS Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (E.C.); (F.V.)
| | - Elisabetta Sette
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, St. Anna Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy; (E.S.); (M.P.); (V.T.)
| | - Maura Pugliatti
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, St. Anna Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy; (E.S.); (M.P.); (V.T.)
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valeria Tugnoli
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, St. Anna Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy; (E.S.); (M.P.); (V.T.)
| | - Lucia Zinno
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy; (L.Z.); (S.S.)
| | - Salvatore Stano
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy; (L.Z.); (S.S.)
| | - Mario Santangelo
- Department of Neurology, Carpi Hospital, 41014 Modena, Italy; (M.S.); (S.D.P.)
| | - Silvia De Pasqua
- Department of Neurology, Carpi Hospital, 41014 Modena, Italy; (M.S.); (S.D.P.)
| | - Emilio Terlizzi
- Department of Neurology, G. Da Saliceto Hospital, 29121 Piacenza, Italy; (E.T.); (D.G.)
| | - Donata Guidetti
- Department of Neurology, G. Da Saliceto Hospital, 29121 Piacenza, Italy; (E.T.); (D.G.)
| | - Doriana Medici
- Department of Neurology, Fidenza Hospital, 43036 Parma, Italy;
| | - Fabrizio Salvi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bellaria Hospital, 40139 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Rocco Liguori
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, University of Bologna and IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bellaria Hospital, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (R.L.); (V.V.)
| | - Veria Vacchiano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, University of Bologna and IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bellaria Hospital, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (R.L.); (V.V.)
| | - Mario Casmiro
- Department of Neurology, Faenza and Ravenna Hospital, 48121 Ravenna, Italy; (M.C.); (P.Q.)
| | - Pietro Querzani
- Department of Neurology, Faenza and Ravenna Hospital, 48121 Ravenna, Italy; (M.C.); (P.Q.)
| | - Marco Currò Dossi
- Department of Neurology, Infermi Hospital, 47923 Rimini, Italy; (M.C.D.); (M.L.)
| | - Alberto Patuelli
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Unit, “Morgagni-Pierantoni” Hospital, 47121 Forlì, Italy;
| | - Simonetta Morresi
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Unit, Bufalini Hospital, 47521 Cesena, Italy;
| | - Marco Longoni
- Department of Neurology, Infermi Hospital, 47923 Rimini, Italy; (M.C.D.); (M.L.)
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Unit, Bufalini Hospital, 47521 Cesena, Italy;
| | | | - Rita Rinaldi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Interaziendale Clinica Neurologica Metropolitana (NeuroMet), 40139 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Annamaria Borghi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, Maggiore Hospital, 40133 Bologna, Italy;
| | | | - Amedeo Amedei
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
- SOD of Interdisciplinary Internal Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Careggi (AOUC), 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Jessica Mandrioli
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (G.G.); (M.V.); (J.M.)
- Department of Neurosciences, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy; (E.Z.); (C.S.); (N.F.); (A.G.)
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Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Based Models for Studying Sex-Specific Differences in Neurodegenerative Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1387:57-88. [PMID: 34921676 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2021_683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases is steadily increasing worldwide, and epidemiological studies strongly suggest that many of the diseases are sex-biased. It has long been suggested that biological sex differences are crucial for neurodegenerative diseases; however, how biological sex affects disease initiation, progression, and severity is not well-understood. Sex is a critical biological variable that should be taken into account in basic research, and this review aims to highlight the utility of human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC)-derived models for studying sex-specific differences in neurodegenerative diseases, with advantages and limitations. In vitro systems utilizing species-specific, renewable, and physiologically relevant cell sources can provide powerful platforms for mechanistic studies, toxicity testings, and drug discovery. Matched healthy, patient-derived, and gene-corrected human iPSCs, from both sexes, can be utilized to generate neuronal and glial cell types affected by specific neurodegenerative diseases to study sex-specific differences in two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) human culture systems. Such relatively simple and well-controlled systems can significantly contribute to the elucidation of molecular mechanisms underlying sex-specific differences, which can yield effective, and potentially sex-based strategies, against neurodegenerative diseases.
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Wilkinson EC, Starke EL, Barbee SA. Vps54 Regulates Lifespan and Locomotor Behavior in Adult Drosophila melanogaster. Front Genet 2021; 12:762012. [PMID: 34712272 PMCID: PMC8546322 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.762012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vps54 is an integral subunit of the Golgi-associated retrograde protein (GARP) complex, which is involved in tethering endosome-derived vesicles to the trans-Golgi network (TGN). A destabilizing missense mutation in Vps54 causes the age-progressive motor neuron (MN) degeneration, muscle weakness, and muscle atrophy observed in the wobbler mouse, an established animal model for human MN disease. It is currently unclear how the disruption of Vps54, and thereby the GARP complex, leads to MN and muscle phenotypes. To develop a new tool to address this question, we have created an analogous model in Drosophila by generating novel loss-of-function alleles of the fly Vps54 ortholog (scattered/scat). We find that null scat mutant adults are viable but have a significantly shortened lifespan. Like phenotypes observed in the wobbler mouse, we show that scat mutant adults are male sterile and have significantly reduced body size and muscle area. Moreover, we demonstrate that scat mutant adults have significant age-progressive defects in locomotor function. Interestingly, we see sexually dimorphic effects, with scat mutant adult females exhibiting significantly stronger phenotypes. Finally, we show that scat interacts genetically with rab11 in MNs to control age-progressive muscle atrophy in adults. Together, these data suggest that scat mutant flies share mutant phenotypes with the wobbler mouse and may serve as a new genetic model system to study the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying MN disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily C Wilkinson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Emily L Starke
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Scott A Barbee
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States.,Molecular and Cellular Biophysics Program, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
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31
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Zhou D, Yan H, Yang S, Zhang Y, Xu X, Cen X, Lei K, Xia H. SC75741, A Novel c-Abl Inhibitor, Promotes the Clearance of TDP25 Aggregates via ATG5-Dependent Autophagy Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:741219. [PMID: 34776962 PMCID: PMC8586708 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.741219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal accumulation of TDP43-related mutant proteins in the cytoplasm causes amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Herein, unbiased drug screening approaches showed that SC75741, a multi-target inhibitor, inhibited inflammation-induced aggregation by inhibiting NF-κB and also degraded already aggregated proteins by inhibiting c-Abl mediated autophagy-lysosomal pathway. We delineate the mechanism that SC75741 could markedly enhance TFEB nuclear translocation by an mTORC1-independent TFEB regulatory pathway. In addition, SC75741 enhanced the interaction between p62 with TDP25 and LC3C, thus promoting TDP25 degradation. Taken together, these findings show that SC75741 has beneficial neuroprotective effects in ALS. Our study elucidates that dual-targeted inhibition of c-Abl and NF-κB may be a potential treatment for TDP43 proteinopathies and ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongheng Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Research Center of Clinical Pharmacy of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huanhuan Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Research Center of Clinical Pharmacy of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuying Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Research Center of Clinical Pharmacy of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuhong Zhang
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Research Center of Clinical Pharmacy of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xufeng Cen
- Department of Biochemistry and Research Center of Clinical Pharmacy of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kai Lei
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hongguang Xia
- Department of Biochemistry and Research Center of Clinical Pharmacy of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, China
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32
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Laneve P, Tollis P, Caffarelli E. RNA Deregulation in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: The Noncoding Perspective. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10285. [PMID: 34638636 PMCID: PMC8508793 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA metabolism is central to cellular physiopathology. Almost all the molecular pathways underpinning biological processes are affected by the events governing the RNA life cycle, ranging from transcription to degradation. The deregulation of these processes contributes to the onset and progression of human diseases. In recent decades, considerable efforts have been devoted to the characterization of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) and to the study of their role in the homeostasis of the nervous system (NS), where they are highly enriched. Acting as major regulators of gene expression, ncRNAs orchestrate all the steps of the differentiation programs, participate in the mechanisms underlying neural functions, and are crucially implicated in the development of neuronal pathologies, among which are neurodegenerative diseases. This review aims to explore the link between ncRNA dysregulation and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the most frequent motoneuron (MN) disorder in adults. Notably, defective RNA metabolism is known to be largely associated with this pathology, which is often regarded as an RNA disease. We also discuss the potential role that these transcripts may play as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Laneve
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, National Research Council, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Tollis
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology Charles Darwin, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Elisa Caffarelli
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, National Research Council, 00185 Rome, Italy
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33
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Ferrea S, Junker F, Korth M, Gruhn K, Grehl T, Schmidt-Wilcke T. Cortical Thinning of Motor and Non-Motor Brain Regions Enables Diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Supports Distinction between Upper- and Lower-Motoneuron Phenotypes. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9091195. [PMID: 34572380 PMCID: PMC8468309 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder clinically characterized by muscle atrophy and progressive paralysis. In addition to the classical ALS affecting both the upper and lower motoneurons (UMN and LMN), other subtypes with the predominant (or even exclusive) affection of the UMN or LMN have been identified. This work sought to detect specific patterns of cortical brain atrophy in the UMN and LMN phenotypes to distinguish these two forms from the healthy state. Methods: Using high-resolution structural MRI and cortical thickness analysis, 38 patients with a diagnosis of ALS and predominance of either the UMN (n = 20) or the LMN (n = 18) phenotype were investigated. Results: Significant cortical thinning in the temporal lobe was found in both the ALS groups. Additionally, UMN patients displayed a significant thinning of the cortical thickness in the pre- and postcentral gyrus, as well as the paracentral lobule. By applying multivariate analyses based on the cortical thicknesses of 34 brain regions, ALS patients with either a predominant UMN or LMN phenotype were distinguished from healthy controls with an accuracy of 94% and UMN from LMN patients with an accuracy of 75%. Conclusions: These findings support previous hypothesis that neural degeneration in ALS is not confined to the sole motor regions. In addition, the amount of cortical thinning in the temporal lobe helps to distinguish ALS patients from healthy controls, that is, to support or discourage the diagnosis of ALS, while the cortical thickness of the precentral gyrus specifically helps to distinguish the UMN from the LMN phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Ferrea
- Institute of Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany; (F.J.); (T.S.-W.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Frederick Junker
- Institute of Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany; (F.J.); (T.S.-W.)
| | - Mira Korth
- Evangelisches Krankenhaus Hattingen, 45525 Hattingen, Germany;
| | - Kai Gruhn
- Neuro Center Mettmann, 40822 Mettmann, Germany;
| | - Torsten Grehl
- ALS Outpatient Clinic, Alfried Krupp Krankenhaus Rüttenscheid, 45131 Essen, Germany;
| | - Tobias Schmidt-Wilcke
- Institute of Clinical Neuroscience and Medical Psychology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany; (F.J.); (T.S.-W.)
- Neurologisches Zentrum, Bezirksklinikum Mainkofen, 94469 Deggendorf, Germany
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34
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Liguori F, Amadio S, Volonté C. Fly for ALS: Drosophila modeling on the route to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis modifiers. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:6143-6160. [PMID: 34322715 PMCID: PMC11072332 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03905-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare, devastating disease, causing movement impairment, respiratory failure and ultimate death. A plethora of genetic, cellular and molecular mechanisms are involved in ALS signature, although the initiating causes and progressive pathological events are far from being understood. Drosophila research has produced seminal discoveries for more than a century and has been successfully used in the past 25 years to untangle the process of ALS pathogenesis, and recognize potential markers and novel strategies for therapeutic solutions. This review will provide an updated view of several ALS modifiers validated in C9ORF72, SOD1, FUS, TDP-43 and Ataxin-2 Drosophila models. We will discuss basic and preclinical findings, illustrating recent developments and novel breakthroughs, also depicting unsettled challenges and limitations in the Drosophila-ALS field. We intend to stimulate a renewed debate on Drosophila as a screening route to identify more successful disease modifiers and neuroprotective agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Liguori
- Preclinical Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 65, 00143, Rome, Italy
| | - Susanna Amadio
- Preclinical Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 65, 00143, Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Volonté
- Preclinical Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 65, 00143, Rome, Italy.
- Institute for Systems Analysis and Computer Science "A. Ruberti", National Research Council (IASI-CNR), Via dei Taurini 19, 00185, Rome, Italy.
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NAD + Precursors and Antioxidants for the Treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9081000. [PMID: 34440204 PMCID: PMC8394119 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9081000] [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: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Charcot first described amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) between 1865 and 1874 as a sporadic adult disease resulting from the idiopathic progressive degeneration of the motor neuronal system, resulting in rapid, progressive, and generalized muscle weakness and atrophy. There is no cure for ALS and no proven therapy to prevent it or reverse its course. There are two drugs specifically approved for the treatment of ALS, riluzol and edaravone, and many others have already been tested or are following clinical trials. However, at the present moment, we still cannot glimpse a true breakthrough in the treatment of this devastating disease. Nevertheless, our understanding of the pathophysiology of ALS is constantly growing. Based on this background, we know that oxidative stress, alterations in the NAD+-dependent metabolism and redox status, and abnormal mitochondrial dynamics and function in the motor neurons are at the core of the problem. Thus, different antioxidant molecules or NAD+ generators have been proposed for the therapy of ALS. This review analyzes these options not only in light of their use as individual molecules, but with special emphasis on their potential association, and even as part of broader combined multi-therapies.
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36
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Orienti I, Armida M, Dobrowolny G, Pepponi R, Sollazzini G, Pezzola A, Casola I, Musarò A, Popoli P, Potenza RL. Fenretinide Beneficial Effects on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis-associated SOD1 G93A Mutant Protein Toxicity: In Vitro and In Vivo Evidences. Neuroscience 2021; 473:1-12. [PMID: 34363869 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2021.07.033] [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: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most frequent motor neuron disease for which effective treatment options are still lacking. ALS occurs in sporadic and familial forms which are clinically indistinguishable; about 20% of familial ALS cases are linked to mutations of the superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene. Fenretinide (FEN), a cancer chemopreventive and antiproliferative agent currently used in several clinical trials, is a multi-target drug which also exhibits redox regulation activities. We analyzed the effects of FEN on mutant SOD1 (mSOD1) toxicity in motoneuronal (NSC34) and a muscle (C2C12) cell lines and evaluated the impacts of chronic administration of a new nanomicellar fenretinide formulation (NanoMFen) on ALS disease progression in the SOD1G93A mouse model. The results showed that FEN significantly prevents the toxicity of mSOD1 expression in NSC34 motor neuron; furthermore, FEN is able to partially overcome the toxic effect of mSOD1 on the myogenic program of C2C12 muscle cells. Administration of NanoMFen ameliorates the disease progression and increases median survival of mSOD1G93A ALS mice, even when given after disease onset; beneficial effects in ALS mice, however, is restricted to female sex. Our data support the therapeutic potential of FEN against ALS-associated SOD1G93A mutant protein toxicity and promote further studies to elucidate specific cellular targets of the drug in ALS. Furthermore, the sex-related efficacy of NanoMFen in mSOD1G93A ALS mice strengthens the importance, in the perspective of a precision medicine approach, of gender pharmacology in ALS research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Orienti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Monica Armida
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriella Dobrowolny
- DAHFMO-Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Pepponi
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriella Sollazzini
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Pezzola
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Casola
- DAHFMO-Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Musarò
- DAHFMO-Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Popoli
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Luisa Potenza
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
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Raymond J, Mehta P, Larson T, Pioro EP, Horton DK. Reproductive History and Age of Onset for Women Diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Data from the National ALS Registry: 2010-2018. Neuroepidemiology 2021; 55:416-424. [PMID: 34218222 DOI: 10.1159/000516344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurological disease of largely unknown etiology with no cure. The National ALS Registry is a voluntary online system that collects demographic and reproductive history (females only) data from patients with ALS. We will examine the association between demographic and reproductive history among female patients aged >18 years and various ages of onset for ALS. METHODS Data from a cross-sectional study were collected and examined for 1,018 female ALS patients. Patient characteristics examined were demographics including race, BMI, and familial history of ALS. Among patients, information on reproductive history, including age at menopause, ever pregnant, and age at first pregnancy was collected. Unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models were used to estimate OR and 95% CI in this study. RESULTS Women were more likely to be diagnosed with ALS before age 60 if they were nonwhite (p = 0.015), had attended college (p = 0.0012), had a normal BMI at age 40 (p < 0.0001), completed menopause before age 50 (p < 0.0001), and had never been pregnant (p = 0.046) in the univariate analysis. Women diagnosed with ALS before age 60 were also more likely to have limb site of onset (p < 0.0001). In the multivariate analysis, those who completed menopause before age 50 were more likely to be diagnosed with ALS before age 60 (OR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.4-2.3) compared with women who completed menopause at or after age 50, after controlling for race, ever pregnant, age at first pregnancy, family history of ALS, education status, smoking history, and BMI at age 40. For women who were diagnosed with ALS before age 50, the odds of them entering menopause before age 50 climb to 48.7 (95% CI: 11.8, 200.9). The mean age of ALS diagnosis for women who completed menopause before age 50 was 58 years and 64 years for women who entered menopause after age 50 (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION Women who reported completing menopause before age 50 were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with ALS before age 60 compared with those who reported entering menopause after age 50. More research is needed to determine the relationship between female reproductive history, especially regarding endogenous estrogen exposure and early-onset ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Raymond
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Paul Mehta
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Ted Larson
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Erik P Pioro
- Section of ALS and Related Disorders, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - D Kevin Horton
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Fulminant amyotrophic lateral sclerosis manifesting in a young woman during pregnancy. Neurol Sci 2021; 42:3019-3021. [PMID: 33694090 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05175-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Fontana A, Marin B, Luna J, Beghi E, Logroscino G, Boumédiene F, Preux PM, Couratier P, Copetti M. Time-trend evolution and determinants of sex ratio in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: a dose-response meta-analysis. J Neurol 2021; 268:2973-2984. [PMID: 33630135 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-021-10464-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A noticeable change of the male-to-female sex ratio (SR) has been observed in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) leading to an apparent regression of SR with time (SR close to 1:1). OBJECTIVE To provide a global SR estimate and investigate its relation with respect to population age. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted including only population-based studies with a high-quality methodology in European ancestral origin population. Male-to-female SR was estimated by three different measures: SR number, SR crude incidence and SR standardized incidence. Standard and dose-response meta-analyses were performed to assess the pooled SR measures (irrespective of population age) and the evolution of the SR measures with respect to population age, respectively. Potential sources of heterogeneity were investigated via meta-regression. RESULTS Overall, 3254 articles were retrieved in the literature search. Thirty-nine studies stratified by time periods were included. The overall pooled male-to-female ratio was 1.28 (95% CI 1.23-1.32) for SR number, 1.33 (95% CI 1.29-1.38) for SR crude incidence and 1.35 (95% CI 1.31-1.40) for SR standardized incidence. The SR number with respect to population age reveals a progressive reduction of SR at increasing age, while the SR crude incidence in relation to age displays a U-shaped curve. CONCLUSIONS The number and the incidence of ALS cases were consistently higher in males than females. Dose-response meta-analysis showed that SR measures change with respect to population age. Further original research is needed to clarify if our findings are reproducible in other populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Fontana
- Unit of Biostatistics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo Della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Benoit Marin
- Ministère de la Sante et des Solidarités, Cellule Interministérielle Recherche MSS/MESRI, Paris, France.
| | - Jaime Luna
- INSERM, Univ. Limoges, CHU Limoges, IRD, U1094 Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, GEIST, Limoges, France.,CHU Limoges, Department of Neurology, ALS Expert Center, Limoges, France
| | - Ettore Beghi
- Laboratorio di Malattie Neurologiche, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milano IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Logroscino
- Unit of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Clinical Research in Neurology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", at "Pia Fondazione Cardinale G. Panico", 73039, Tricase, Lecce, Italy.,Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Farid Boumédiene
- INSERM, Univ. Limoges, CHU Limoges, IRD, U1094 Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, GEIST, Limoges, France
| | - Pierre-Marie Preux
- INSERM, Univ. Limoges, CHU Limoges, IRD, U1094 Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, GEIST, Limoges, France.,CHU Limoges, Centre d'Epidémiologie, de Biostatistique et de Méthodologie de la Recherche, Limoges, France
| | - Philippe Couratier
- INSERM, Univ. Limoges, CHU Limoges, IRD, U1094 Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, GEIST, Limoges, France.,CHU Limoges, Department of Neurology, ALS Expert Center, Limoges, France
| | - Massimilano Copetti
- Unit of Biostatistics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo Della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
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Bayesian Network as a Decision Tool for Predicting ALS Disease. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11020150. [PMID: 33498784 PMCID: PMC7912628 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11020150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is difficult in the early period. But blood tests are less time consuming and low cost methods compared to other methods for the diagnosis. The ALS researchers have been used machine learning methods to predict the genetic architecture of disease. In this study we take advantages of Bayesian networks and machine learning methods to predict the ALS patients with blood plasma protein level and independent personal features. According to the comparison results, Bayesian Networks produced best results with accuracy (0.887), area under the curve (AUC) (0.970) and other comparison metrics. We confirmed that sex and age are effective variables on the ALS. In addition, we found that the probability of onset involvement in the ALS patients is very high. Also, a person’s other chronic or neurological diseases are associated with the ALS disease. Finally, we confirmed that the Parkin level may also have an effect on the ALS disease. While this protein is at very low levels in Parkinson’s patients, it is higher in the ALS patients than all control groups.
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