1
|
Wiesenfarth M, Forouhideh-Wiesenfarth Y, Elmas Z, Parlak Ö, Weiland U, Herrmann C, Schuster J, Freischmidt A, Müller K, Siebert R, Günther K, Fröhlich E, Knehr A, Simak T, Bachhuber F, Regensburger M, Petri S, Klopstock T, Reilich P, Schöberl F, Schumann P, Körtvélyessy P, Meyer T, Ruf WP, Witzel S, Tumani H, Brenner D, Dorst J, Ludolph AC. Clinical characterization of common pathogenic variants of SOD1-ALS in Germany. J Neurol 2024:10.1007/s00415-024-12564-1. [PMID: 39141064 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12564-1] [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: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Pathogenic variants in the Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1) gene can be detected in approximately 2% of sporadic and 11% of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients in Europe. We analyzed the clinical phenotypes of 83 SOD1-ALS patients focusing on patients carrying the most frequent (likely) pathogenic variants (R116G, D91A, L145F) in Germany. Moreover, we describe the effect of tofersen treatment on ten patients carrying these variants. R116G patients showed the most aggressive course of disease with a median survival of 22.0 months compared to 198.0 months in D91A and 87.0 months in L145F patients (HR 7.71, 95% CI 2.89-20.58 vs. D91A; p < 0.001 and HR 4.25, 95% CI 1.55-11.67 vs. L145F; p = 0.02). Moreover, R116G patients had the fastest median ALSFRS-R progression rate with 0.12 (IQR 0.07-0.20) points lost per month. Median diagnostic delay was 10.0 months (IQR 5.5-11.5) and therefore shorter compared to 57.5 months (IQR 14.0-83.0) in D91A (p < 0.001) and 21.5 months (IQR 5.8-38.8) in L145F (p = 0.21) carriers. As opposed to D91A carriers (50.0%), 96.2% of R116G (p < 0.001) and 100.0% of L145F (p = 0.04) patients reported a positive family history. During tofersen treatment, all patients showed a reduction of neurofilament light chain (NfL) serum levels, independent of the SOD1 variant. Patients with SOD1-ALS carrying R116G, D91A, or L145F variants show commonalities, but also differences in their clinical phenotype, including a faster progression rate with shorter survival in R116G, and a comparatively benign disease course in D91A carriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zeynep Elmas
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Özlem Parlak
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Ulrike Weiland
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Christine Herrmann
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Joachim Schuster
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
- German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Ulm, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Axel Freischmidt
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Kathrin Müller
- Institute of Human Genetics, Ulm University and Ulm University Medical Center, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Reiner Siebert
- Institute of Human Genetics, Ulm University and Ulm University Medical Center, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Kornelia Günther
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Elke Fröhlich
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Antje Knehr
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Tatiana Simak
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Franziska Bachhuber
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Martin Regensburger
- Department of Molecular Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), University Hospital Erlangen, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Susanne Petri
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Thomas Klopstock
- Department of Neurology with Friedrich-Baur-Institute, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80336, Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Munich, 81377, Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Reilich
- Department of Neurology with Friedrich-Baur-Institute, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Florian Schöberl
- Department of Neurology with Friedrich-Baur-Institute, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Peggy Schumann
- Ambulanzpartner Soziotechnologie GmbH, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter Körtvélyessy
- Department of Neurology, Center for ALS and other Motor Neuron Disorders, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Magdeburg, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Meyer
- Department of Neurology, Center for ALS and other Motor Neuron Disorders, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolfgang P Ruf
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Simon Witzel
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Hayrettin Tumani
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
- German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Ulm, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - David Brenner
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
- German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Ulm, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Johannes Dorst
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
- German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Ulm, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Albert C Ludolph
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081, Ulm, Germany
- German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Site Ulm, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
de Holanda Paranhos L, Magalhães RSS, de Araújo Brasil A, Neto JRM, Ribeiro GD, Queiroz DD, Dos Santos VM, Eleutherio ECA. The familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-associated A4V SOD1 mutant is not able to regulate aerobic glycolysis. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2024; 1868:130634. [PMID: 38788983 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2024.130634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Under certain stress conditions, astrocytes operate in aerobic glycolysis, a process controlled by pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) inhibition through its E1 α subunit (Pda1) phosphorylation. This supplies lactate to neurons, which save glucose to obtain NADPH to, among other roles, counteract reactive oxygen species. A failure in this metabolic cooperation causes severe damage to neurons. In this work, using humanized Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells in which its endogenous Cu/Zn Superoxide Dismutase (SOD1) was replaced by human ortholog, we investigated the role of human SOD1 (hSOD1) in aerobic glycolysis regulation and its implications to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a neurodegenerative disease. Yeast cells ferment glucose even in the presence of oxygen and switch to respiratory metabolism after glucose exhaustion. However, like cells of SOD1-knockout strain, cells expressing A4V mutant of hSOD1 growing on glucose showed a respiratory phenotype, i.e., low glucose and high oxygen consumptions and low intracellular oxidation levels in response to peroxide stress, contrary to cells expressing wild-type (WT) SOD1 (yeast or human). The A4V mutation in hSOD1 is linked to ALS. In contrast to WT SOD1 strains, PDH activity of both sod1Δ and A4V hSOD1 cells did not change in response to a metabolic shift toward oxidative metabolism, which was associated to lower Pda1 phosphorylation levels under growth on glucose. Taken together, our results suggest that A4V mutant cannot regulate aerobic glycolysis via Pda1 phosphorylation the same way WT hSOD1, which might be linked to problems observed in the motor neurons of ALS patients with the SOD1 A4V mutation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luan de Holanda Paranhos
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Brazil
| | | | - Aline de Araújo Brasil
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Brazil
| | | | - Gabriela Delaqua Ribeiro
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Brazil
| | - Daniela Dias Queiroz
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Brazil
| | - Vanessa Mattos Dos Santos
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Oliveira Santos M, de Carvalho M. Profiling tofersen as a treatment of superoxide dismutase 1 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Expert Rev Neurother 2024; 24:549-553. [PMID: 38758193 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2024.2355983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive motor neuron disorder with a fatal outcome 3-5 years after disease onset due to respiratory complications. Superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) mutations are found in about 2% of all patients. Tofersen is a novel oligonucleotide antisense drug specifically developed to treat SOD1-ALS patients. AREAS COVERED Our review covers and discusses tofersen pharmacological properties and its phase I/II and III clinical trials results. Other available drugs and their limitations are also addressed. EXPERT OPINION VALOR study failed to meet the primary endpoint (change in the revised Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale score from baseline to week 28, tofersen arm vs. placebo), but a significant reduction in plasma neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels was observed in tofersen arm (60% vs. 20%). PrefALS study has proposed plasma NfL has a potential biomarker for presymptomatic treatment, since it increases 6-12 months before phenoconversion. There is probably a delay between plasma NfL reduction and the clinical benefit. ATLAS study will allow more insights regarding tofersen clinical efficacy in disease progression rate, survival, and even disease onset delay in presymptomatic SOD1 carriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Oliveira Santos
- Institute of Physiology, Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Centro de Estudos Egas Moniz, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mamede de Carvalho
- Institute of Physiology, Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Centro de Estudos Egas Moniz, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Libonati L, Cambieri C, Colavito D, Moret F, D'Andrea E, Del Giudice E, Leon A, Inghilleri M, Ceccanti M. Genetics screening in an Italian cohort of patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: the importance of early testing and its implication. J Neurol 2024; 271:1921-1936. [PMID: 38112783 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-12142-x] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease with an elusive etiology. While environmental factors have been considered, familial ALS cases have raised the possibility of genetic involvement. This genetic connection is increasingly evident, even in patients with sporadic ALS. We allowed access to the genetic test to all patients attending our clinic to identify the prevalence and the role of genetic variants in the development of the disease and to identify patients with potentially treatable forms of the disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS 194 patients with probable or definite ALS, were enrolled. A comprehensive genetic testing was performed, including sequencing all exons of the SOD1 gene and testing for hexanucleotide intronic repeat expansions (G4C2) in the C9orf72 gene using fluorescent repeat-primed PCR (RP-PCR). Whole Exome NGS Sequencing (WES) was performed, followed by an in silico multigene panel targeting neuromuscular diseases, spastic paraplegia, and motor distal neuropathies. We conducted statistical analyses to compare different patient groups. RESULTS Clinically significant pathogenetic variants were detected in 14.43% of cases. The highest prevalence of pathogenetic variants was observed in fALS patients, but a substantial proportion of sALS patients also displayed at least one variant, either pathogenetic or of uncertain significance (VUS). The most observed pathogenetic variant was the expansion of the C9orf72 gene, which was associated with a shorter survival. SOD1 variants were found in 1.6% of fALS and 2.5% of sALS patients. DISCUSSION The study reveals a significant number of ALS patients carrying pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants, with a higher prevalence in familial ALS cases. The expansion of the C9orf72 gene emerges as the most common genetic cause of ALS, affecting familial and sporadic cases. Additionally, SOD1 variants are detected at an unexpectedly higher rate, even in patients without a familial history of ALS, underscoring the crucial role of genetic testing in treatment decisions and potential participation in clinical trials. We also investigated variants in genes such as TARDBP, FUS, NEK1, TBK1, and DNAJC7, shedding light on their potential involvement in ALS. These findings underscore the complexity of interpreting variants of uncertain significance (VUS) and their ethical implications in patient communication and genetic counseling for patients' relatives. CONCLUSION This study emphasizes the diverse genetic basis of ALS and advocates for integrating comprehensive genetic testing into diagnostic protocols. The evolving landscape of genetic therapies requires identifying all eligible patients transcending traditional familial boundaries. The presence of VUS highlights the multifaceted nature of ALS genetics, prompting further exploration of complex interactions among genetic variants, environmental factors, and disease development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Libonati
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University, Viale Dell'Università 30, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Chiara Cambieri
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University, Viale Dell'Università 30, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Colavito
- R & I Genetics, C.So Stati Uniti 4int.F, 35127, Padua, Italy
| | - Federica Moret
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University, Viale Dell'Università 30, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Edoardo D'Andrea
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University, Viale Dell'Università 30, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Alberta Leon
- R & I Genetics, C.So Stati Uniti 4int.F, 35127, Padua, Italy
| | - Maurizio Inghilleri
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University, Viale Dell'Università 30, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Ceccanti
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University, Viale Dell'Università 30, 00185, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Theuriet J, Fernandez-Eulate G, Latour P, Stojkovic T, Masingue M, Vidoni L, Bernard E, Jacquier A, Schaeffer L, Salort-Campana E, Chanson JB, Pakleza AN, Kaminsky AL, Svahn J, Manel V, Bouhour F, Pegat A. Genetic characterization of non-5q proximal spinal muscular atrophy in a French cohort: the place of whole exome sequencing. Eur J Hum Genet 2024; 32:37-43. [PMID: 37337091 PMCID: PMC10772122 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-023-01407-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Proximal spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is defined by a degeneration of the anterior horn cells resulting in muscle weakness predominantly in the proximal lower limbs. While most patients carry a biallelic deletion in the SMN1 gene (localized in chromosome 5q), little is known regarding patients without SMN1-mutation, and a genetic diagnosis is not always possible. Here, we report a cohort of 24 French patients with non-5q proximal SMA from five neuromuscular centers who all, except two, had next-generation sequencing (NGS) gene panel, followed by whole exome sequencing (WES) if gene panel showed a negative result. The two remaining patients benefited directly from WES or whole genome sequencing (WGS). A total of ten patients with causative variants were identified, nine of whom were index cases (9/23 families = 39%). Eight variants were identified by gene panel: five variants in DYNC1H1, and three in BICD2. Compound heterozygous causative variants in ASAH1 were identified directly by WES, and one variant in DYNC1H1 was identified directly by WGS. No causative variant was found using WES in patients with a previous panel with negative results (14 cases). We thus recommend using primarily NGS panels in patients with non-5q-SMA and using WES, especially when several members of the same family are affected and/or when trio analyses are possible, or WGS as second-line testing if available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julian Theuriet
- Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Service d'électroneuromyographie et de Pathologies Neuromusculaires, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Groupement Est, Bron, France.
- Pathophysiology and Genetics of Neuron and Muscle, CNRS UMR 5261, INSERM U1315, Université Lyon1, Faculté de Médecine Lyon Est, Lyon, France.
| | - Gorka Fernandez-Eulate
- Nord/Est/Ile-De-France Neuromuscular Reference Center, Institut de Myologie, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Philippe Latour
- Pathophysiology and Genetics of Neuron and Muscle, CNRS UMR 5261, INSERM U1315, Université Lyon1, Faculté de Médecine Lyon Est, Lyon, France
- Unité Fonctionnelle de Neurogénétique Moléculaire, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Groupement Est, Bron, France
| | - Tanya Stojkovic
- Nord/Est/Ile-De-France Neuromuscular Reference Center, Institut de Myologie, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Marion Masingue
- Nord/Est/Ile-De-France Neuromuscular Reference Center, Institut de Myologie, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Léo Vidoni
- Unité Fonctionnelle de Neurogénétique Moléculaire, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Groupement Est, Bron, France
| | - Emilien Bernard
- Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Service d'électroneuromyographie et de Pathologies Neuromusculaires, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Groupement Est, Bron, France
- Pathophysiology and Genetics of Neuron and Muscle, CNRS UMR 5261, INSERM U1315, Université Lyon1, Faculté de Médecine Lyon Est, Lyon, France
- Hôpital Neurologique Pierre-Wertheimer, Service de Neurologie, Troubles du Mouvement et Pathologies Neuromusculaires, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Groupement Est, Bron, France
| | - Arnaud Jacquier
- Pathophysiology and Genetics of Neuron and Muscle, CNRS UMR 5261, INSERM U1315, Université Lyon1, Faculté de Médecine Lyon Est, Lyon, France
- Centre de Biotechnologie Cellulaire, CBC Biotec, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Groupement Est, Bron, France
| | - Laurent Schaeffer
- Pathophysiology and Genetics of Neuron and Muscle, CNRS UMR 5261, INSERM U1315, Université Lyon1, Faculté de Médecine Lyon Est, Lyon, France
- Centre de Biotechnologie Cellulaire, CBC Biotec, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Groupement Est, Bron, France
| | - Emmanuelle Salort-Campana
- Hôpital de la Timone, Maladies Neuromusculaires et SMA, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Baptiste Chanson
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires Nord/Est/Ile-de-France, Service de Neurologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Aleksandra Nadaj Pakleza
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires Nord/Est/Ile-de-France, Service de Neurologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Anne-Laure Kaminsky
- Service de Neurologie, Centre Référent des Maladies Neuromusculaires Rares, CHU de Saint Etienne, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Juliette Svahn
- Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Service d'électroneuromyographie et de Pathologies Neuromusculaires, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Groupement Est, Bron, France
- Pathophysiology and Genetics of Neuron and Muscle, CNRS UMR 5261, INSERM U1315, Université Lyon1, Faculté de Médecine Lyon Est, Lyon, France
- Hôpital Neurologique Pierre-Wertheimer, Service de Neurologie, Troubles du Mouvement et Pathologies Neuromusculaires, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Groupement Est, Bron, France
| | - Véronique Manel
- Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Service d'électroneuromyographie et de Pathologies Neuromusculaires, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Groupement Est, Bron, France
- Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Service de Neuropédiatrie, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Groupement Est, Bron, France
| | - Françoise Bouhour
- Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Service d'électroneuromyographie et de Pathologies Neuromusculaires, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Groupement Est, Bron, France
- Pathophysiology and Genetics of Neuron and Muscle, CNRS UMR 5261, INSERM U1315, Université Lyon1, Faculté de Médecine Lyon Est, Lyon, France
| | - Antoine Pegat
- Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Service d'électroneuromyographie et de Pathologies Neuromusculaires, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Groupement Est, Bron, France
- Pathophysiology and Genetics of Neuron and Muscle, CNRS UMR 5261, INSERM U1315, Université Lyon1, Faculté de Médecine Lyon Est, Lyon, France
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wu H, Fan Y, Zhang M. Advanced Progress in the Role of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cells in the Application of Central Nervous System Disorders. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2637. [PMID: 38004615 PMCID: PMC10674952 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15112637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (ADMSCs) are recognized as a highly promising material for stem cell therapy due to their accessibility and safety. Given the frequently irreversible damage to neural cells associated with CNS disorders, ADMSC-related therapy, which primarily encompasses ADMSC transplantation and injection with exosomes derived from ADMSCs or secretome, has the capability to inhibit inflammatory response and neuronal apoptosis, promote neural regeneration, as well as modulate immune responses, holding potential as a comprehensive approach to treat CNS disorders and improve prognosis. Empirical evidence from both experiments and clinical trials convincingly demonstrates the satisfactory safety and efficacy of ADMSC-related therapies. This review provides a systematic summary of the role of ADMSCs in the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) disorders and explores their therapeutic potential for clinical application. ADMSC-related therapy offers a promising avenue to mitigate damage and enhance neurological function in central nervous system (CNS) disorders. However, further research is necessary to establish the safety and efficacy of clinical ADMSC-based therapy, optimize targeting accuracy, and refine delivery approaches for practical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haiyue Wu
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; (H.W.); (Y.F.)
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Yishu Fan
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; (H.W.); (Y.F.)
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Mengqi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China; (H.W.); (Y.F.)
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Colombo E, Gentile F, Maranzano A, Doretti A, Verde F, Olivero M, Gagliardi D, Faré M, Meneri M, Poletti B, Maderna L, Corti S, Corbo M, Morelli C, Silani V, Ticozzi N. The impact of upper motor neuron involvement on clinical features, disease progression and prognosis in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1249429. [PMID: 37822527 PMCID: PMC10562695 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1249429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
ObjectivesIn amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) both upper (UMNs) and lower motor neurons (LMNs) are involved in the process of neurodegeneration, accounting for the great disease heterogeneity. We evaluated the associations of the burden of UMN impairment, assessed through the Penn Upper Motor Neuron Score (PUMNS), with demographic and clinical features of ALS patients to define the independent role of UMN involvement in generating disease heterogeneity, predicting disease progression and prognosis.MethodsWe collected the following clinical parameters on a cohort of 875 ALS patients: age and site of onset, survival, MRC scale, lower motor neuron score (LMNS), PUMNS, ALSFRS-R, change in ALSFRS-R over time (DFS), MITOS and King’s staging systems (KSS). Transcranial magnetic stimulation was performed on a subgroup of patients and central motor conduction time (CMCT) and cortical silent period (CSP) were calculated.ResultsWe observed that patients with an earlier age at onset and bulbar onset had higher PUMNS values. Higher values were also associated to lower ALSFRS-R and to higher DFS scores, as well as to higher MITOS and KSS, indicating that a greater UMN burden correlates with disease severity. Conversely, we did not appreciate any association between UMN involvement and survival or markers of LMN impairment. Moreover, PUMNS values showed a positive association with CMCT and a negative one with CSP values.InterpretationOur results suggest that the burden of UMN pathology, assessed through PUMNS, has an important independent role in defining clinical characteristics, functional disability, disease progression and prognosis in ALS patients. We also support the role of TMS in defining severity of UMN involvement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Colombo
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Gentile
- Neurology Residency Program, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessio Maranzano
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Doretti
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Verde
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
- “Dino Ferrari” Center, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Olivero
- Neurology Residency Program, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Delia Gagliardi
- “Dino Ferrari” Center, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Faré
- Department of Neurology, San Gerardo Hospital ASST, Monza, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Megi Meneri
- “Dino Ferrari” Center, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Poletti
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Maderna
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Corti
- “Dino Ferrari” Center, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Corbo
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, Casa di Cura Igea (CCI), Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Morelli
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Silani
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
- “Dino Ferrari” Center, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Ticozzi
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
- “Dino Ferrari” Center, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Akçimen F, Lopez ER, Landers JE, Nath A, Chiò A, Chia R, Traynor BJ. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: translating genetic discoveries into therapies. Nat Rev Genet 2023; 24:642-658. [PMID: 37024676 PMCID: PMC10611979 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-023-00592-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in sequencing technologies and collaborative efforts have led to substantial progress in identifying the genetic causes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This momentum has, in turn, fostered the development of putative molecular therapies. In this Review, we outline the current genetic knowledge, emphasizing recent discoveries and emerging concepts such as the implication of distinct types of mutation, variability in mutated genes in diverse genetic ancestries and gene-environment interactions. We also propose a high-level model to synthesize the interdependent effects of genetics, environmental and lifestyle factors, and ageing into a unified theory of ALS. Furthermore, we summarize the current status of therapies developed on the basis of genetic knowledge established for ALS over the past 30 years, and we discuss how developing treatments for ALS will advance our understanding of targeting other neurological diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fulya Akçimen
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Elia R Lopez
- Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - John E Landers
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Avindra Nath
- Section of Infections of the Nervous System, National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Adriano Chiò
- Rita Levi Montalcini Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, C.N.R, Rome, Italy
- Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Citta' della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy
| | - Ruth Chia
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Bryan J Traynor
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
- Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sharma S, Tomar VR, Deep S. Mechanism of the interaction of toxic SOD1 fibrils with two potent polyphenols: curcumin and quercetin. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2023; 25:23081-23091. [PMID: 37602388 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp02120c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disease commonly caused due to the aggregation of superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) protein. Finding inhibitors of SOD1 aggregation is of prime concern, but understanding the mechanistic action of inhibitors is equally important. Recent experiments found that two polyphenols, curcumin, and quercetin, have the ability to inhibit SOD1 aggregation. Quercetin was experimentally proven to break pre-formed fibrils into shorter segments, while curcumin did not significantly affect the pre-formed species. Here, we delve deeper into understanding the mechanism of action of quercetin and curcumin on pre-formed octameric fibrils of SOD1 (28PVKVWGSIKGL38: chains A-H) with the help of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of a fibril docked polyphenol complex. Our results suggest that quercetin shows π-π stacking interaction with one of the key residues for toxic amyloid formation, Trp 32 of chains D, E, and F, and breaks the peptide chains G, and H from the rest of the fibril. On the other hand, curcumin binds to the hydrophobic amino acids of almost all the chains B-H and stabilizes the fibril rather than destabilizing it. Binding free energy calculations using MM/PBSA showed that curcumin binds more strongly to the SOD1 fibril due to greater van der Waals interactions compared to quercetin. These findings provide insights for the development of potential ALS treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa Sharma
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016, India.
| | - Vijay Raj Tomar
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016, India.
| | - Shashank Deep
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016, India.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sharma S, Tomar VR, Deep S. Myricetin: A Potent Anti-Amyloidogenic Polyphenol against Superoxide Dismutase 1 Aggregation. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023. [PMID: 37314311 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is believed to be caused by the aggregation of misfolded or mutated superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1). As there is currently no treatment, research into aggregation inhibitors continues. Based on docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and experimental observations, we propose that myricetin, a plant flavonoid, can act as a potent anti-amyloidogenic polyphenol against SOD1 aggregation. Our MD simulation results showed that myricetin stabilizes the protein interface, destabilizes the preformed fibril, and decreases the rate of fibril elongation. Myricetin inhibits the aggregation of SOD1 in a dose-dependent manner as shown by the ThT aggregation kinetics curves. Our transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and circular dichroism experiments indicate that fewer shorter fibrils have formed. Fluorescence spectroscopy results predict the involvement of a static quenching mechanism characterized by a strong binding between protein and myricetin. Importantly, size exclusion chromatography revealed the potential of myricetin for fibril destabilization and depolymerization. These experimental observations complement the MD results. Thus, myricetin is a potent SOD1 aggregation inhibitor that can reduce the fibril load. Using the structure of myricetin as a reference, it is possible to design more effective therapeutic inhibitors against ALS that prevent the disease and reverse its effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa Sharma
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, Delhi 10016, India
| | - Vijay Raj Tomar
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, Delhi 10016, India
| | - Shashank Deep
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, Delhi 10016, India
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gagliardi D, Ripellino P, Meneri M, Del Bo R, Antognozzi S, Comi GP, Gobbi C, Ratti A, Ticozzi N, Silani V, Ronchi D, Corti S. Clinical and molecular features of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and SOD1 mutations: a monocentric study. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1169689. [PMID: 37265463 PMCID: PMC10230028 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1169689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction SOD1 was the first gene associated with both familial and sporadic forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and is the second most mutated gene in Caucasian ALS patients. Given their high clinical and molecular heterogeneity, a detailed characterization of SOD1-ALS patients could improve knowledge about the natural history of this disease. Here, the authors aimed to provide a clinical and molecular description of a monocentric cohort of SOD1-ALS patients. Methods Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients referring to the neurology unit of our center between 2008 and 2021 were clinically assessed and underwent molecular testing for SOD1. Segregation studies in available family members and in silico analysis were performed to sustain the pathogenicity of the identified SOD1 variants. Results Among the 576 patients in our cohort, we identified 19 individuals harboring a mutation in SOD1 (3.3%), including 15 (78.9%) with a familial and four (21.1%) with a sporadic form. The spinal onset of the disease was observed in all patients, and survival was extremely variable, ranging from 8 months to over 30 years. Twelve different SOD1 missense variants were identified in our cohort, including one novel mutation (p.Pro67Leu). Discussion In the present series, we provided the first description of an Italian monocentric cohort of SOD1-ALS patients, and we expanded the repertoire of SOD1 mutations. Our cohort presents several remarkable features, including variable expressivity in the same family, atypical presentation (ataxia, cognitive impairment, and other extra-motor symptoms), and different modes of inheritance of a given mutation in the same family. Given the recent authorization of SOD1-directed antisense oligonucleotide for use in SOD1-ALS patients, we recommend prompt screening for SOD1 mutations in novel ALS patients with familiar or sporadic presentations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Delia Gagliardi
- Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Ripellino
- Department of Neurology, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland EOC, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Megi Meneri
- Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Del Bo
- Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Antognozzi
- Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giacomo Pietro Comi
- Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Neuromuscular and Rare Diseases Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudio Gobbi
- Department of Neurology, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland EOC, Lugano, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Antonia Ratti
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Ticozzi
- Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Silani
- Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Dario Ronchi
- Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Corti
- Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), Dino Ferrari Centre, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Suzuki N, Nishiyama A, Warita H, Aoki M. Genetics of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: seeking therapeutic targets in the era of gene therapy. J Hum Genet 2023; 68:131-152. [PMID: 35691950 PMCID: PMC9968660 DOI: 10.1038/s10038-022-01055-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an intractable disease that causes respiratory failure leading to mortality. The main locus of ALS is motor neurons. The success of antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) therapy in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a motor neuron disease, has triggered a paradigm shift in developing ALS therapies. The causative genes of ALS and disease-modifying genes, including those of sporadic ALS, have been identified one after another. Thus, the freedom of target choice for gene therapy has expanded by ASO strategy, leading to new avenues for therapeutic development. Tofersen for superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) was a pioneer in developing ASO for ALS. Improving protocols and devising early interventions for the disease are vital. In this review, we updated the knowledge of causative genes in ALS. We summarized the genetic mutations identified in familial ALS and their clinical features, focusing on SOD1, fused in sarcoma (FUS), and transacting response DNA-binding protein. The frequency of the C9ORF72 mutation is low in Japan, unlike in Europe and the United States, while SOD1 and FUS are more common, indicating that the target mutations for gene therapy vary by ethnicity. A genome-wide association study has revealed disease-modifying genes, which could be the novel target of gene therapy. The current status and prospects of gene therapy development were discussed, including ethical issues. Furthermore, we discussed the potential of axonal pathology as new therapeutic targets of ALS from the perspective of early intervention, including intra-axonal transcription factors, neuromuscular junction disconnection, dysregulated local translation, abnormal protein degradation, mitochondrial pathology, impaired axonal transport, aberrant cytoskeleton, and axon branching. We simultaneously discuss important pathological states of cell bodies: persistent stress granules, disrupted nucleocytoplasmic transport, and cryptic splicing. The development of gene therapy based on the elucidation of disease-modifying genes and early intervention in molecular pathology is expected to become an important therapeutic strategy in ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Suzuki
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan.
| | - Ayumi Nishiyama
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Warita
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Masashi Aoki
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zaji HD, Seyedalipour B, Hanun HM, Baziyar P, Hosseinkhani S, Akhlaghi M. Computational insight into in silico analysis and molecular dynamics simulation of the dimer interface residues of ALS-linked hSOD1 forms in apo/holo states: a combined experimental and bioinformatic perspective. 3 Biotech 2023; 13:92. [PMID: 36845075 PMCID: PMC9944573 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-023-03514-1] [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: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The aggregation of misfolded SOD1 proteins in neurodegenerative illnesses is a key pathological hallmark in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). SOD1 is stabilized and enzymatically activated after binding to Cu/Zn and forming intramolecular disulfide. SOD1 aggregation/oligomerization is triggered by the dissociation of Cu and/or Zn ions. Therefore, we compared the possible effects of ALS-associated point mutations of the holo/apo forms of WT/I149T/V148G SOD1 variants located at the dimer interface to determine structural characterization using spectroscopic methods, computational approaches as well as molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Predictive results of computational analysis of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) suggested that mutant SOD1 has a deleterious effect on activity and structure destabilization. MD data analysis indicated that changes in flexibility, stability, hydrophobicity of the protein as well as increased intramolecular interactions of apo-SOD1 were more than holo-SOD1. Furthermore, a decrease in enzymatic activity in apo-SOD1 was observed compared to holo-SOD1. Comparative intrinsic and ANS fluorescence results of holo/apo-WT-hSOD1 and mutants indicated structural alterations in the local environment of tryptophan residue and hydrophobic patches, respectively. Experimental and MD data supported that substitution effect and metal deficiency of mutants (apo forms) in the dimer interface may promote the tendency to protein mis-folding and aggregation, consequently disrupting the dimer-monomer equilibrium and increased propensity to dissociation dimer into SOD-monomer ultimately leading to loss of stability and function. Overall, data analysis of apo/holo SOD1 forms on protein structure and function using computational and experimental studies will contribute to a better understanding of ALS pathogenicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Dakhil Zaji
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Basic Science, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
| | - Bagher Seyedalipour
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Basic Science, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
| | - Haider Munzer Hanun
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Basic Science, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
| | - Payam Baziyar
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Basic Science, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
| | - Saman Hosseinkhani
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mona Akhlaghi
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Basic Science, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Sharma S, Tomar VR, Jayaraj A, Deep S. A computational strategy for therapeutic development against superoxide dismutase (SOD1) amyloid formation: effect of polyphenols on the various events in the aggregation pathway. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2023; 25:6232-6246. [PMID: 36756854 DOI: 10.1039/d2cp05537f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Pathology of superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) aggregation is linked to a neurodegenerative disease known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Without suitable post-translational modifications (PTMs), the protein structure tends to become aggregation-prone. Understanding the role of PTMs and targeting the aggregation-prone SOD1 with small molecules can be used to design a strategy to inhibit its aggregation. Microsecond long molecular dynamics (MD) simulations followed by free energy surface (FES) analyses show that the loss of structure in the apo monomer happens locally and stepwise. Removing the disulfide bond from apoprotein leads to further instability in the zinc-binding loop, giving rise to non-native protein conformations. Further, it was found that these non-native conformations have a higher propensity to form a non-native dimer. We chose three structurally similar polyphenols based on their binding energies and investigated their impact on SOD1 aggregation kinetics. MD simulations of apo-SOD1SH/corkscrew fibril-polyphenol complexes were also carried out. The effect of polyphenols was seen on fibril elongation as well. Based on the experiments and MD simulation results, it can be inferred that the choice of inhibitors is influenced not only by the binding energy but also by dimer interface stabilization, the proclivity to form non-native dimers, the propensity to break fibrils, and the propensity to decrease the rate of elongation. The polyphenols with 3' and 4' hydroxyl groups are better inhibitors of SOD1 aggregation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa Sharma
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, India, 110016.
| | - Vijay Raj Tomar
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, India, 110016.
| | - Abhilash Jayaraj
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, India, 110016.
| | - Shashank Deep
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, India, 110016.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Vázquez-Costa JF, Borrego-Hernández D, Paradas C, Gómez-Caravaca MT, Rojas-Garcia R, Varona L, Povedano M, García-Sobrino T, Jericó Pascual I, Gutiérrez A, Riancho J, Turon-Sans J, Assialioui A, Pérez-Tur J, Sevilla T, Esteban Pérez J, García-Redondo A. Characterizing SOD1 mutations in Spain. The impact of genotype, age, and sex in the natural history of the disease. Eur J Neurol 2022; 30:861-871. [PMID: 36484631 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study is to describe the frequency and distribution of SOD1 mutations in Spain, and to explore those factors contributing to their phenotype and prognosis. METHODS Seventeen centres shared data on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients carrying pathogenic or likely pathogenic SOD1 variants. Multivariable models were used to explore prognostic modifiers. RESULTS In 144 patients (from 88 families), 29 mutations (26 missense, 2 deletion/insertion and 1 frameshift) were found in all 5 exons of SOD1, including 7 novel mutations. 2.6% of ALS patients (including 17.7% familial and 1.3% sporadic) were estimated to carry SOD1 mutations. Its frequency varied considerably between regions, due to founder events. The most frequent mutation was p.Gly38Arg (n = 58), followed by p.Glu22Gly (n = 11), p.Asn140His (n = 10), and the novel p.Leu120Val (n = 10). Most mutations were characterized by a protracted course, and some of them by atypical phenotypes. Older age of onset was independently associated with faster disease progression (exp(Estimate) = 1.03 [0.01, 0.05], p = 0.001) and poorer survival (HR = 1.05 [1.01, 1.08], p = 0.007), regardless of the underlying mutation. Female sex was independently associated to faster disease progression (exp(Estimate) = 2.1 [1.23, 3.65], p = 0.012) in patients carrying the p.Gly38Arg mutation, resulting in shorter survival compared with male carriers (236 vs 301 months). CONCLUSIONS These data may help to evaluate the efficacy of SOD1 targeted treatments, and to expand the number of patients that might benefit from these treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan F Vázquez-Costa
- Neuromuscular Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico la Fe, IIS La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Daniel Borrego-Hernández
- Neurology Department, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre and Instituto de Investigación Biomédica Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Paradas
- Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío and Instituto Biomedicina de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Spain
| | | | - Ricardo Rojas-Garcia
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Spain
- Motor Neuron Diseases Clinic, Department of Neurology, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luis Varona
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario de Basurto, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Mónica Povedano
- Department of Neurology, Hospital de Bellvitge and Idibell, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tania García-Sobrino
- Department of Neurology, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago, Santiago de Compostela (A Coruña), Spain
| | | | - Antonio Gutiérrez
- Complejo Hospitalario Universitario Insular-Materno-Infantil de Gran Canaria, Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Javier Riancho
- Hospital Sierrallana-IDIVAL. Departamento de Medicina y Psiquiatría. Universidad Cantabria. Cantabria, Spain
| | - Janina Turon-Sans
- Motor Neuron Diseases Clinic, Department of Neurology, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Jordi Pérez-Tur
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Spain
- Institut de Biomedicina de València-CSIC. CIBERNED. Unidad Mixta de Neurología y Genética. IIS La Fe. Valencia, Spain
| | - Teresa Sevilla
- Neuromuscular Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico la Fe, IIS La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Jesús Esteban Pérez
- Neurology Department, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre and Instituto de Investigación Biomédica Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alberto García-Redondo
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Spain
- Neurology Department, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre and Instituto de Investigación Biomédica Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Li S, Lin J, Li C, Chen Y, Cao B, Yang T, Wei Q, Zhao B, Chen X, Shang H. Clinical and genetic study of a Chinese family affected by both amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. Front Neurol 2022; 13:1004909. [PMID: 36341123 PMCID: PMC9630937 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1004909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by loss of the upper and lower motor neurons from the motor cortex, brainstem, and spinal cord. Most ALS cases are sporadic, with 5–10% having a positive family history. Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a heritable renal disease that eventually results in end-stage kidney disease. PKD1 is the most prevalent causative gene for ADPKD, accounting for ~85% of cases. Both diseases are currently considered untreatable. In this study, we report a large family that includes 10 patients with ALS phenotype, 3 asymptomatic SOD1-H47R carriers, and 6 with the ADPKD phenotype. Using whole exome sequencing, we found a novel likely pathogenic variant (p.R2787P) in PKD1 among patients with ADPKD, and a pathogenic variant (p.H47R) in SOD1 among patients with ALS. This study highlights the possibility that two different autosomal dominantly inherited diseases can co-exist independently within the same family. Phenotype—genotype correlations among these patients are also described. This research contributes novel phenotype and genotype characteristics of ALS with SOD1 mutations and ADPKD with PKD1 mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shirong Li
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Neurology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, China
| | - Junyu Lin
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chunyu Li
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yongping Chen
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bei Cao
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tianmi Yang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qianqian Wei
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bi Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xueping Chen
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Huifang Shang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Huifang Shang
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Amorós MA, Choi ES, Cofré AR, Dokholyan NV, Duzzioni M. Motor neuron-derived induced pluripotent stem cells as a drug screening platform for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:962881. [PMID: 36105357 PMCID: PMC9467621 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.962881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of cell culture models that recapitulate the etiology and features of nervous system diseases is central to the discovery of new drugs and their translation onto therapies. Neuronal tissues are inaccessible due to skeletal constraints and the invasiveness of the procedure to obtain them. Thus, the emergence of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology offers the opportunity to model different neuronal pathologies. Our focus centers on iPSCs derived from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients, whose pathology remains in urgent need of new drugs and treatment. In this sense, we aim to revise the process to obtain motor neurons derived iPSCs (iPSC-MNs) from patients with ALS as a drug screening model, review current 3D-models and offer a perspective on bioinformatics as a powerful tool that can aid in the progress of finding new pharmacological treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana A. Amorós
- Laboratory of Pharmacological Innovation, Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Esther S. Choi
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Axel R. Cofré
- Laboratory of Pharmacological Innovation, Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Nikolay V. Dokholyan
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Marcelo Duzzioni
- Laboratory of Pharmacological Innovation, Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
De La Cruz E, Guissart C, Esselin F, Polge A, Pageot N, Taieb G, Lumbroso S, Camu W, Mouzat K. Compound heterozygous P67S/D91A SOD1 mutations in an ALS family with apparently sporadic case. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2022; 23:458-461. [PMID: 34668453 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2021.1990344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: To describe a family with heterozygous P67S and D91A SOD1 mutations. Methods: The ALS profile of the proband was described. SOD1 gene sequencing was performed in the proband and his children. Results: The affected individual presented with progressive left peripheral facial palsy and slow progression with late limb involvement. Unequivocal upper and lower motor neuron signs were present, together with diffuse denervation at myography. The absence of trigeminal involvement excluded a FOSMN syndrome. Pedigree analysis did not show any other ALS case in the family. Genetic analysis of this patient showed P67S and D91A SOD1 mutations. The genetic analysis of the children showed that the mutations were each one carried by a different chromosome. Conclusions: P67S SOD1 mutation has been described in several ALS cases, either with familial or apparently sporadic ALS. The mutation is located in a mutational hotspot and was predicted pathogenic by in silico prediction software. The study of phylogenetic data show that at this codon, the proline is highly conserved throughout species reinforcing causality. Conversely, the D91A variant is known to have a recessive influence. Unilateral motor facial involvement, even after several years, in an ALS patient is unusual. The present case with compound heterozygosity and unusual onset in a patient with apparently sporadic ALS, widens the clinical spectrum of the disease and adds further arguments to support the systematic genetic screening of all ALS cases in referral ALS clinics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa De La Cruz
- Service d'Explorations Neurologiques et Centre de référence SLA, CHU Gui de Chauliac, INM, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Claire Guissart
- Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHU Nîmes, INM, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Florence Esselin
- Service d'Explorations Neurologiques et Centre de référence SLA, CHU Gui de Chauliac, INM, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Anne Polge
- Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHU Nîmes, INM, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Nicolas Pageot
- Service d'Explorations Neurologiques et Centre de référence SLA, CHU Gui de Chauliac, INM, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Guillaume Taieb
- Service d'Explorations Neurologiques et Centre de référence SLA, CHU Gui de Chauliac, INM, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Serge Lumbroso
- Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHU Nîmes, INM, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - William Camu
- Service d'Explorations Neurologiques et Centre de référence SLA, CHU Gui de Chauliac, INM, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Kevin Mouzat
- Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHU Nîmes, INM, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating motor neuron disease for which there is currently no robust therapy. Recent progress in understanding ALS disease mechanisms and genetics in combination with innovations in gene modulation strategies creates promising new options for the development of ALS therapies. In recent years, six gene modulation therapies have been tested in ALS patients. These target gain-of-function pathology of the most common ALS genes, SOD1, C9ORF72, FUS, and ATXN2, using adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated microRNAs and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). Here, we review the latest clinical and preclinical advances in gene modulation approaches for ALS, including gene silencing, gene correction, and gene augmentation. These techniques have the potential to positively impact the direction of future research trials and transform ALS treatments for this grave disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina E Meijboom
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Robert H Brown
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Dharmadasa T, Scaber J, Edmond E, Marsden R, Thompson A, Talbot K, Turner MR. Genetic testing in motor neurone disease. Pract Neurol 2022; 22:107-116. [PMID: 35027459 PMCID: PMC8938673 DOI: 10.1136/practneurol-2021-002989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A minority (10%-15%) of cases of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the most common form of motor neurone disease (MND), are currently attributable to pathological variants in a single identifiable gene. With the emergence of new therapies targeting specific genetic subtypes of ALS, there is an increasing role for routine genetic testing for all those with a definite diagnosis. However, potential harm to both affected individuals and particularly to asymptomatic relatives can arise from the indiscriminate use of genetic screening, not least because of uncertainties around incomplete penetrance and variants of unknown significance. The most common hereditary cause of ALS, an intronic hexanucleotide repeat expansion in C9ORF72, may be associated with frontotemporal dementia independently within the same pedigree. The boundary of what constitutes a possible family history of MND has therefore extended to include dementia and associated psychiatric presentations. Notwithstanding the important role of clinical genetics specialists, all neurologists need a basic understanding of the current place of genetic testing in MND, which holds lessons for other neurological disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thanuja Dharmadasa
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Jakub Scaber
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Evan Edmond
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Rachael Marsden
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Alexander Thompson
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Kevin Talbot
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Martin R Turner
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Elsadany M, Elghaish RA, Khalil AS, Ahmed AS, Mansour RH, Badr E, Elserafy M. Transcriptional Analysis of Nuclear-Encoded Mitochondrial Genes in Eight Neurodegenerative Disorders: The Analysis of Seven Diseases in Reference to Friedreich’s Ataxia. Front Genet 2021; 12:749792. [PMID: 34987545 PMCID: PMC8721009 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.749792] [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: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are challenging to understand, diagnose, and treat. Revealing the genomic and transcriptomic changes in NDDs contributes greatly to the understanding of the diseases, their causes, and development. Moreover, it enables more precise genetic diagnosis and novel drug target identification that could potentially treat the diseases or at least ease the symptoms. In this study, we analyzed the transcriptional changes of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial (NEM) genes in eight NDDs to specifically address the association of these genes with the diseases. Previous studies show strong links between defects in NEM genes and neurodegeneration, yet connecting specific genes with NDDs is not well studied. Friedreich’s ataxia (FRDA) is an NDD that cannot be treated effectively; therefore, we focused first on FRDA and compared the outcome with seven other NDDs, including Alzheimer’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease, frontotemporal dementia, Huntington’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. First, weighted correlation network analysis was performed on an FRDA RNA-Seq data set, focusing only on NEM genes. We then carried out differential gene expression analysis and pathway enrichment analysis to pinpoint differentially expressed genes that are potentially associated with one or more of the analyzed NDDs. Our findings propose a strong link between NEM genes and NDDs and suggest that our identified candidate genes can be potentially used as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Elsadany
- University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Reem A. Elghaish
- University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Aya S. Khalil
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Alaa S. Ahmed
- University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Rana H. Mansour
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Eman Badr
- University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Faculty of Computers and Artificial Intelligence, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
- *Correspondence: Eman Badr, ; Menattallah Elserafy,
| | - Menattallah Elserafy
- University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- *Correspondence: Eman Badr, ; Menattallah Elserafy,
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Gentile G, Perrone B, Morello G, Simone IL, Andò S, Cavallaro S, Conforti FL. Individual Oligogenic Background in p.D91A- SOD1 Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Patients. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12121843. [PMID: 34946792 PMCID: PMC8701978 DOI: 10.3390/genes12121843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The p.D91A is one of the most common ALS-causing SOD1 mutations and is known to be either recessive or dominant. The homozygous phenotype is characterized by prolonged survival and slow progression of disease, whereas the affected heterozygous phenotypes can vary. To date, no genetic protective factors located close to SOD1 have been associated with the mild progressive homozygous phenotype. Using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), we characterized a small cohort of sporadic and familial p.D91A-SOD1 heterozygous (n = 2) or homozygous (n = 5) ALS patients, to reveal any additional contributing variant in 39 ALS-related genes. We detected unique sets of non-synonymous variants, four of which were of uncertain significance and several in untranslated regions of ALS-related genes. Our results supported an individual oligogenic background underlying both sporadic and familial p.D91A cases irrespective of their p.D91A mutant alleles. We suggest that a comprehensive genomic view of p.D91A-SOD1 ALS patients may be useful in identifying emerging variants and improving disease diagnosis as well as guiding precision medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Gentile
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, Department of Biomedical Sciences, National Research Council (CNR), 95126 Catania, Italy; (G.G.); (G.M.); (S.C.)
| | - Benedetta Perrone
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy and Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (B.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Giovanna Morello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, Department of Biomedical Sciences, National Research Council (CNR), 95126 Catania, Italy; (G.G.); (G.M.); (S.C.)
| | - Isabella Laura Simone
- Neurology Unit, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Sebastiano Andò
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy and Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (B.P.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, Department of Pharmacy and Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Cavallaro
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, Department of Biomedical Sciences, National Research Council (CNR), 95126 Catania, Italy; (G.G.); (G.M.); (S.C.)
| | - Francesca Luisa Conforti
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy and Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (B.P.); (S.A.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Ezer S, Daana M, Park JH, Yanovsky-Dagan S, Nordström U, Basal A, Edvardson S, Saada A, Otto M, Meiner V, Marklund SL, Andersen PM, Harel T. Infantile SOD1 deficiency syndrome caused by a homozygous SOD1 variant with absence of enzyme activity. Brain 2021; 145:872-878. [PMID: 34788402 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic variants in SOD1, encoding superoxide dismutase 1, are responsible for about 20% of all familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis cases, through a gain-of-function mechanism. Recently, two reports showed that a specific homozygous SOD1 loss-of-function variant is associated with an infantile progressive motor-neurological syndrome. Exome sequencing followed by molecular studies, including cDNA analysis, SOD1 protein levels and enzymatic activity, and plasma neurofilament light chain levels, were undertaken in an infant with severe global developmental delay, axial hypotonia and limb spasticity. We identified a homozygous 3-bp in-frame deletion in SOD1. cDNA analysis predicted the loss of a single valine residue from a tandem pair (p.Val119/Val120) in the wild-type protein, yet expression levels and splicing were preserved. Analysis of SOD1 activity and protein levels in erythrocyte lysates showed essentially no enzymatic activity and undetectable SOD1 protein in the child, whereas the parents had ∼50% protein expression and activity relative to controls. Neurofilament light chain levels in plasma were elevated, implying ongoing axonal injury and neurodegeneration. Thus, we provide confirmatory evidence of a second biallelic variant in an infant with a severe neurological syndrome and suggest that the in-frame deletion causes instability and subsequent degeneration of SOD1. We highlight the importance of the valine residues at positions V119-120, and suggest possible implications for future therapeutics research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shlomit Ezer
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel 9112001.,Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel 9112001
| | - Muhannad Daana
- Child Development Centers, Clalit Health Care Services, Jerusalem District, Israel
| | - Julien H Park
- Department of Clinical Science, Neurosciences, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden.,Department of General Pediatrics, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Shira Yanovsky-Dagan
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel 9112001
| | - Ulrika Nordström
- Department of Clinical Science, Neurosciences, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Adily Basal
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel 9112001
| | - Simon Edvardson
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel 9112001.,Pediatric Neurology Unit, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel 9112001
| | - Ann Saada
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel 9112001.,Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel 9112001
| | - Markus Otto
- Department of Neurology, University Clinic, 89081 Ulm, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University Clinic, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Vardiella Meiner
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel 9112001.,Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel 9112001
| | - Stefan L Marklund
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Clinical Chemistry, Umeå University, 907 36 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Peter Munch Andersen
- Department of Clinical Science, Neurosciences, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Tamar Harel
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Organization, Jerusalem, Israel 9112001.,Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel 9112001
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Amador MDM, Muratet F, Teyssou E, Boillée S, Millecamps S. New advances in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis genetics: Towards gene therapy opportunities for familial and young cases. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2021; 177:524-535. [PMID: 33810837 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2021.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Due to novel gene therapy opportunities, genetic screening is no longer restricted to familial cases of ALS (FALS) cases but also aplies to the sporadic populations (SALS). Screening of four main genes (C9orf72, SOD1, TARDBP and FUS) identified the causes in 15% of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) patients (two third of the familial cases and 8% of the sporadic ones) but their respective contribution to ALS phenotype varies according the age of disease onset. The genetic overlap between ALS and other diseases is expanding and includes frontotemporal dementia, Paget's Disease of Bone, myopathy for adult cases, HSP and CMT for young cases highlighing the importance of retrieving the exhaustive familial history for each indivdual with ALS. Incomplete disease penetrance, diversity of the possible phenotypes, as well as the lack of confidence concerning the pathogenicity of most identified variants and/or possible oligogenic inheritance are burdens of ALS genetic counseling to be delivered to patients and at risk individuals. The multitude of rare ALS genetic causes identifed seems to converge to similar cellular pathways leading to inapropriate response to stress emphacising new potential therapeutic options for the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M-D-M Amador
- Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, ICM, Inserm U1127, CNRS UMR7225, Sorbonne Université, UPMC Univ Paris 6 UMRS1127, 75013 Paris, France; Département de Neurologie, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), Centre de référence SLA Île de France, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, 75013 Paris, France.
| | - F Muratet
- Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, ICM, Inserm U1127, CNRS UMR7225, Sorbonne Université, UPMC Univ Paris 6 UMRS1127, 75013 Paris, France.
| | - E Teyssou
- Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, ICM, Inserm U1127, CNRS UMR7225, Sorbonne Université, UPMC Univ Paris 6 UMRS1127, 75013 Paris, France.
| | - S Boillée
- Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, ICM, Inserm U1127, CNRS UMR7225, Sorbonne Université, UPMC Univ Paris 6 UMRS1127, 75013 Paris, France.
| | - S Millecamps
- Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, ICM, Inserm U1127, CNRS UMR7225, Sorbonne Université, UPMC Univ Paris 6 UMRS1127, 75013 Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Layalle S, They L, Ourghani S, Raoul C, Soustelle L. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Genes in Drosophila melanogaster. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020904. [PMID: 33477509 PMCID: PMC7831090 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating adult-onset neurodegenerative disease characterized by the progressive degeneration of upper and lower motoneurons. Most ALS cases are sporadic but approximately 10% of ALS cases are due to inherited mutations in identified genes. ALS-causing mutations were identified in over 30 genes with superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1), chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9orf72), fused in sarcoma (FUS), and TAR DNA-binding protein (TARDBP, encoding TDP-43) being the most frequent. In the last few decades, Drosophila melanogaster emerged as a versatile model for studying neurodegenerative diseases, including ALS. In this review, we describe the different Drosophila ALS models that have been successfully used to decipher the cellular and molecular pathways associated with SOD1, C9orf72, FUS, and TDP-43. The study of the known fruit fly orthologs of these ALS-related genes yielded significant insights into cellular mechanisms and physiological functions. Moreover, genetic screening in tissue-specific gain-of-function mutants that mimic ALS-associated phenotypes identified disease-modifying genes. Here, we propose a comprehensive review on the Drosophila research focused on four ALS-linked genes that has revealed novel pathogenic mechanisms and identified potential therapeutic targets for future therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Layalle
- The Neuroscience Institute of Montpellier, INSERM, University of Montpellier, 34091 Montpellier, France; (S.L.); (L.T.); (S.O.)
| | - Laetitia They
- The Neuroscience Institute of Montpellier, INSERM, University of Montpellier, 34091 Montpellier, France; (S.L.); (L.T.); (S.O.)
| | - Sarah Ourghani
- The Neuroscience Institute of Montpellier, INSERM, University of Montpellier, 34091 Montpellier, France; (S.L.); (L.T.); (S.O.)
| | - Cédric Raoul
- The Neuroscience Institute of Montpellier, INSERM, University of Montpellier, 34091 Montpellier, France; (S.L.); (L.T.); (S.O.)
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
- Correspondence: (C.R.); (L.S.)
| | - Laurent Soustelle
- The Neuroscience Institute of Montpellier, INSERM, University of Montpellier, 34091 Montpellier, France; (S.L.); (L.T.); (S.O.)
- Correspondence: (C.R.); (L.S.)
| |
Collapse
|