Metabolism of Glycosphingolipids and Their Role in the Pathophysiology of Lysosomal Storage Disorders

A multiplexed targeted method for profiling of serum gangliosides and glycosphingolipids: application to GM2-gangliosidosis

The analysis of gangliosides and glycosphingolipids is crucial for understanding cellular membrane structure and function as well as to accurately diagnose certain inborn errors of metabolism. GM2-gangliosidosis represents a rare and fatal group of lysosomal storage disorders characterized by accumulation of GM2 gangliosides in various tissues and organs. These disorders arise due to deficiency or functional impairment of the β-hexosaminidase A or B enzymes, which are responsible for degradation of GM2 ganglioside. Deficient enzyme activity primarily leads to the accumulation of GM2 gangliosides within the lysosomes of cells. Accurate and rapid diagnostic methods that detect increased levels of GM2 gangliosides in patients with GM2-gangliosidosis can play a significant role in early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of this condition. To address this need, we developed a multiplexed liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method targeting 84 species of gangliosides and other glycosphingolipids involved in ganglioside metabolism. Reproducibility, linearity, extraction efficiency, and sample stability were evaluated and proof-of-concept data obtained from analysis of serum samples from confirmed cases of GM2-gangliosidosis. This method has the potential to simultaneously monitor the biosynthesis of gangliosides and the lysosomal catabolic pathway serving as a valuable tool for screening and diagnosing an important group of lysosomal storage disorders.

Quantitative proteomics of patient fibroblasts reveal biomarkers and diagnostic signatures of mitochondrial disease

BACKGROUNDMitochondrial diseases belong to the group of inborn errors of metabolism (IEM), with a prevalence of 1 in 2,000-5,000 individuals. They are the most common form of IEM, but, despite advances in next-generation sequencing technologies, almost half of the patients are left genetically undiagnosed.METHODSWe investigated a cohort of 61 patients with defined mitochondrial disease to improve diagnostics, identify biomarkers, and correlate metabolic pathways to specific disease groups. Clinical presentations were structured using human phenotype ontology terms, and mass spectrometry-based proteomics was performed on primary fibroblasts. Additionally, we integrated 6 patients carrying variants of uncertain significance (VUS) to test proteomics as a diagnostic expansion.RESULTSProteomic profiles from patient samples could be classified according to their biochemical and genetic characteristics, with the expression of 5 proteins (GPX4, MORF4L1, MOXD1, MSRA, and TMED9) correlating with the disease cohort, thus acting as putative biomarkers. Pathway analysis showed a deregulation of inflammatory and mitochondrial stress responses. This included the upregulation of glycosphingolipid metabolism and mitochondrial protein import, as well as the downregulation of arachidonic acid metabolism. Furthermore, we could assign pathogenicity to a VUS in MRPS23 by demonstrating the loss of associated mitochondrial ribosome subunits.CONCLUSIONWe established mass spectrometry-based proteomics on patient fibroblasts as a viable and versatile tool for diagnosing patients with mitochondrial disease.FUNDINGThe NovoNordisk Foundation, Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, UK Medical Research Council, and the UK NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders of Adults and Children.

Glycosphingolipids in Cardiovascular Disease: Insights from Molecular Mechanisms and Heart Failure Models

This review explores the crucial role of glycosphingolipids (GSLs) in the context of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), focusing on their biosynthesis, metabolic pathways, and implications for clinical outcomes. GSLs are pivotal in regulating a myriad of cellular functions that are essential for heart health and disease progression. Highlighting findings from both human cohorts and animal models, this review emphasizes the potential of GSLs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. We advocate for more detailed mechanistic studies to deepen our understanding of GSL functions in cardiovascular health, which could lead to innovative strategies for diagnosis, treatment, and personalized medicine in cardiovascular care.

In Silico Modeling of Fabry Disease Pathophysiology for the Identification of Early Cellular Damage Biomarker Candidates

Fabry disease (FD) is an X-linked lysosomal disease whose ultimate consequences are the accumulation of sphingolipids and subsequent inflammatory events, mainly at the endothelial level. The outcomes include different nervous system manifestations as well as multiple organ damage. Despite the availability of known biomarkers, early detection of FD remains a medical need. This study aimed to develop an in silico model based on machine learning to identify candidate vascular and nervous system proteins for early FD damage detection at the cellular level. A combined systems biology and machine learning approach was carried out considering molecular characteristics of FD to create a computational model of vascular and nervous system disease. A data science strategy was applied to identify risk classifiers by using 10 K-fold cross-validation. Further biological and clinical criteria were used to prioritize the most promising candidates, resulting in the identification of 36 biomarker candidates with classifier abilities, which are easily measurable in body fluids. Among them, we propose four candidates, CAMK2A, ILK, LMNA, and KHSRP, which have high classification capabilities according to our models (cross-validated accuracy ≥ 90%) and are related to the vascular and nervous systems. These biomarkers show promise as high-risk cellular and tissue damage indicators that are potentially applicable in clinical settings, although in vivo validation is still needed.

An update on multiplexed mass spectrometry-based lysosomal storage disease diagnosis

Lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) are a type of inherited metabolic disorders in which biomolecules, accumulate as a specific substrate in lysosomes due to specific individual enzyme deficiencies. Despite the fact that LSDs are incurable, various approaches, including enzyme replacement therapy, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, or gene therapy are now available. Therefore, a timely diagnosis is a critical initial step in patient treatment. The-state-of-the-art in LSD diagnostic uses, in the first stage, enzymatic activity determination by fluorimetry or by mass spectrometry (MS) with the aid of dry blood spots, based on different enzymatic substrate structures. Due to its sensitivity, high precision, and ability to screen for an unprecedented number of diseases in a single assay, multiplexed tandem MS-based enzyme activity assays for the screening of LSDs in newborns have recently received a lot of attention. Here, (i) we review the current approaches used for simultaneous enzymatic activity determination of LSDs in dried blood spots using multiplex-LC-MS/MS; (ii) we explore the need for designing novel enzymatic substrates that generate different enzymatic products with distinct molecular masses in multiplexed-MS studies; and (iii) we give examples of the relevance of affinity-MS technique as a basis for reversing undesirable immune-reactivity in enzyme replacement therapy.

Glycosphingolipids: from metabolism to chemoenzymatic total synthesis

GSLs are the major glycolipids in vertebrates and mediate many key biological processes from intercellular recognition to cis regulation of signal transduction. The fast-expanding field of glycobiology has led to a growing demand for diverse and structurally defined GSLs, and enzymatic GSL synthesis is developing rapidly in accordance. This article provides an overview of natural GSL biosynthetic pathways and surveys the bacterial enzymes applied to GSL synthesis and recent progress in synthesis strategies. By correlating these three areas, this article aims to define the gaps between GSL biosynthesis and chemoenzymatic synthesis and evaluate the opportunities for harnessing natural forces to access GSLs efficiently.

Tracing the lipidome in inborn errors of metabolism

Inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) represent a heterogeneous group of more than 1800 rare disorders, many of which are causing significant childhood morbidity and mortality. More than 100 IEM are linked to dyslipidaemia, but yet our knowledge in connecting genetic information with lipidomic data is limited. Stable isotope tracing studies of the lipid metabolism (STL) provide insights on the dynamic of cellular lipid processes and could thereby facilitate the delineation of underlying metabolic (patho)mechanisms. This mini-review focuses on principles as well as technical limitations of STL and describes potential clinical applications by discussing recently published STL focusing on IEM.

The major histocompatibility complex participates in Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and the aggregation of alpha-synuclein (α-syn). The central nervous system (CNS) has previously been considered as an immune-privileged area. However, studies have shown that the immune responses are involved in PD. The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) presents antigens from antigen-presenting cells (APCs) to T lymphocytes, immune responses will be induced. MHCs are expressed in microglia, astrocytes, and dopaminergic neurons. Single nucleotide polymorphisms in MHC are related to the risk of PD. The aggregated α-syn triggers the expression of MHCs by activating glia cells. CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes responses and microglia activation are detected in brains of PD patients. In addiction immune responses further increase blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability and T cell infiltration in PD. Thus, MHCs are involved in PD through participating in immune and inflammatory responses.

A guide to cell death pathways

Regulated cell death mediated by dedicated molecular machines, known as programmed cell death, plays important roles in health and disease. Apoptosis, necroptosis and pyroptosis are three such programmed cell death modalities. The caspase family of cysteine proteases serve as key regulators of programmed cell death. During apoptosis, a cascade of caspase activation mediates signal transduction and cellular destruction, whereas pyroptosis occurs when activated caspases cleave gasdermins, which can then form pores in the plasma membrane. Necroptosis, a form of caspase-independent programmed necrosis mediated by RIPK3 and MLKL, is inhibited by caspase-8-mediated cleavage of RIPK1. Disruption of cellular homeostatic mechanisms that are essential for cell survival, such as normal ionic and redox balance and lysosomal flux, can also induce cell death without invoking programmed cell death mechanisms. Excitotoxicity, ferroptosis and lysosomal cell death are examples of such cell death modes. In this Review, we provide an overview of the major cell death mechanisms, highlighting the latest insights into their complex regulation and execution, and their relevance to human diseases.

Intrathecal delivery of a bicistronic AAV9 vector expressing β-hexosaminidase A corrects Sandhoff disease in a murine model: A dosage study

The pathological accumulation of GM2 ganglioside associated with Tay-Sachs disease (TSD) and Sandhoff disease (SD) occurs in individuals who possess mutant forms of the heterodimer β-hexosaminidase A (Hex A) because of mutation of the HEXA and HEXB genes, respectively. With a lack of approved therapies, patients experience rapid neurological decline resulting in early death. A novel bicistronic vector carrying both HEXA and HEXB previously demonstrated promising results in mouse models of SD following neonatal intravenous administration, including significant reduction in GM2 accumulation, increased levels of Hex A, and a 2-fold extension of survival. The aim of the present study was to identify an optimal dose of the bicistronic vector in 6-week-old SD mice by an intrathecal route of administration along with transient immunosuppression, to inform possible clinical translation. Three doses of the bicistronic vector were tested: 2.5e11, 1.25e11, and 0.625e11 vector genomes per mouse. The highest dose provided the greatest increase in biochemical and behavioral parameters, such that treated mice lived to a median age of 56 weeks (>3 times the lifespan of the SD controls). These results have direct implications in deciding a human equivalent dose for TSD/SD and have informed the approval of a clinical trial application (NCT04798235).

Mysterious sphingolipids: metabolic interrelationships at the center of pathophysiology

Metabolic pathways are complex and intertwined. Deficiencies in one or more enzymes in a given pathway are directly linked with genetic diseases, most of them having devastating manifestations. The metabolic pathways undertaken by sphingolipids are diverse and elaborate with ceramide species serving as the hubs of sphingolipid intermediary metabolism and function. Sphingolipids are bioactive lipids that serve a multitude of cellular functions. Being pleiotropic in function, deficiency or overproduction of certain sphingolipids is associated with many genetic and chronic diseases. In this up-to-date review article, we strive to gather recent scientific evidence about sphingolipid metabolism, its enzymes, and regulation. We shed light on the importance of sphingolipid metabolism in a variety of genetic diseases and in nervous and immune system ailments. This is a comprehensive review of the state of the field of sphingolipid biochemistry.

Sphingolipids: From structural components to signaling hubs

In late November 2019, Prof. Lina M. Obeid passed away from cancer, a disease she spent her life researching and studying its intricate molecular underpinnings. Along with her husband, Prof. Yusuf A. Hannun, Obeid laid down the foundations of sphingolipid biochemistry and oversaw its remarkable evolution over the years. Lipids are a class of macromolecules that are primarily associated with cellular architecture. In fact, lipids constitute the perimeter of the cell in such a way that without them, there cannot be cells. Hence, much of the early research on lipids identified the function of this class of biological molecules as merely structural. Nevertheless, unlike proteins, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids, lipids are elaborately diverse as they are not made up of monomers in polymeric forms. This diversity in structure is clearly mirrored by functional pleiotropy. In this chapter, we focus on a major subset of lipids, sphingolipids, and explore their historic rise from merely inert structural components of plasma membranes to lively and necessary signaling molecules that transmit various signals and control many cellular processes. We will emphasize the works of Lina Obeid since she was an integral pillar of the sphingolipid research world.

Ganglioside GM1 and the Central Nervous System

GM1 is one of the major glycosphingolipids (GSLs) on the cell surface in the central nervous system (CNS). Its expression level, distribution pattern, and lipid composition are dependent upon cell and tissue type, developmental stage, and disease state, which suggests a potentially broad spectrum of functions of GM1 in various neurological and neuropathological processes. The major focus of this review is the roles that GM1 plays in the development and activities of brains, such as cell differentiation, neuritogenesis, neuroregeneration, signal transducing, memory, and cognition, as well as the molecular basis and mechanisms for these functions. Overall, GM1 is protective for the CNS. Additionally, this review has also examined the relationships between GM1 and neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, GM1 gangliosidosis, Huntington's disease, epilepsy and seizure, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, depression, alcohol dependence, etc., and the functional roles and therapeutic applications of GM1 in these disorders. Finally, current obstacles that hinder more in-depth investigations and understanding of GM1 and the future directions in this field are discussed.

Differential Early Mechanistic Frontal Lobe Responses to Choline Chloride and Soy Isoflavones in an Experimental Model of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is the most common preventable cause of neurodevelopmental defects, and white matter is a major target of ethanol neurotoxicity. Therapeutic interventions with choline or dietary soy could potentially supplement public health preventive measures. However, since soy contains abundant choline, it would be important to know if its benefits are mediated by choline or isoflavones. We compared early mechanistic responses to choline and the Daidzein+Genistein (D+G) soy isoflavones in an FASD model using frontal lobe tissue to assess oligodendrocyte function and Akt-mTOR signaling. Long Evans rat pups were binge administered 2 g/Kg of ethanol or saline (control) on postnatal days P3 and P5. P7 frontal lobe slice cultures were treated with vehicle (Veh), Choline chloride (Chol; 75 µM), or D+G (1 µM each) for 72 h without further ethanol exposures. The expression levels of myelin oligodendrocyte proteins and stress-related molecules were measured by duplex enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), and mTOR signaling proteins and phosphoproteins were assessed using 11-plex magnetic bead-based ELISAs. Ethanol's main short-term effects in Veh-treated cultures were to increase GFAP and relative PTEN phosphorylation and reduce Akt phosphorylation. Chol and D+G significantly modulated the expression of oligodendrocyte myelin proteins and mediators of insulin/IGF-1-Akt-mTOR signaling in both control and ethanol-exposed cultures. In general, the responses were more robust with D+G; the main exception was that RPS6 phosphorylation was significantly increased by Chol and not D+G. The findings suggest that dietary soy, with the benefits of providing complete nutrition together with Choline, could be used to help optimize neurodevelopment in humans at risk for FASD.

Fabry Disease and Central Nervous System Involvement: From Big to Small, from Brain to Synapse

Fabry disease (FD) is an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder (LSD) secondary to mutations in the GLA gene that causes dysfunctional activity of lysosomal hydrolase α-galactosidase A and results in the accumulation of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) and globotriaosylsphingosine (lyso-Gb3). The endothelial accumulation of these substrates results in injury to multiple organs, mainly the kidney, heart, brain and peripheral nervous system. The literature on FD and central nervous system involvement is scarce when focusing on alterations beyond cerebrovascular disease and is nearly absent in regard to synaptic dysfunction. In spite of that, reports have provided evidence for the CNS’ clinical implications in FD, including Parkinson’s disease, neuropsychiatric disorders and executive dysfunction. We aim to review these topics based on the current available scientific literature.

A Mouse Systems Genetics Approach Reveals Common and Uncommon Genetic Modifiers of Hepatic Lysosomal Enzyme Activities and Glycosphingolipids

Identification of genetic modulators of lysosomal enzyme activities and glycosphingolipids (GSLs) may facilitate the development of therapeutics for diseases in which they participate, including Lysosomal Storage Disorders (LSDs). To this end, we used a systems genetics approach: we measured 11 hepatic lysosomal enzymes and many of their natural substrates (GSLs), followed by modifier gene mapping by GWAS and transcriptomics associations in a panel of inbred strains. Unexpectedly, most GSLs showed no association between their levels and the enzyme activity that catabolizes them. Genomic mapping identified 30 shared predicted modifier genes between the enzymes and GSLs, which are clustered in three pathways and are associated with other diseases. Surprisingly, they are regulated by ten common transcription factors, and their majority by miRNA-340p. In conclusion, we have identified novel regulators of GSL metabolism, which may serve as therapeutic targets for LSDs and may suggest the involvement of GSL metabolism in other pathologies.

Secreted metabolome of porcine blastocysts encapsulated within in vitro 3D alginate hydrogel culture systems undergoing morphological changes provides insights into specific mechanisms involved in the initiation of porcine conceptus elongation

CONTEXT

The exact mechanisms regulating the initiation of porcine conceptus elongation are not known due to the complexity of the uterine environment.

AIMS

To identify contributing factors for initiation of conceptus elongation in vitro , this study evaluated differential metabolite abundance within media following culture of blastocysts within unmodified alginate (ALG) or Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD)-modified alginate hydrogel culture systems.

METHODS

Blastocysts were harvested from pregnant gilts, encapsulated within ALG or RGD or as non-encapsulated control blastocysts (CONT), and cultured. At the termination of 96h culture, media were separated into blastocyst media groups: non-encapsulated control blastocysts (CONT); ALG and RGD blastocysts with no morphological change (ALG- and RGD-); ALG and RGD blastocysts with morphological changes (ALG+ and RGD+) and evaluated for non-targeted metabolomic profiling by liquid chromatography (LC)-mass spectrometry (MS) techniques and gas chromatography-(GC-MS).

KEY RESULTS

Analysis of variance identified 280 (LC-MS) and 1 (GC-MS) compounds that differed (P <0.05), of which 134 (LC-MS) and 1 (GC-MS) were annotated. Metabolites abundance between ALG+ vs ALG-, RGD+ vs RGD-, and RGD+ vs ALG+ were further investigated to identify potential differences in metabolic processes during the initiation of elongation.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified changes in phospholipid, glycosphingolipid, lipid signalling, and amino acid metabolic processes as potential RGD-independent mechanisms of elongation and identified changes in lysophosphatidylcholine and sphingolipid secretions during RGD-mediated elongation.

IMPLICATIONS

These results illustrate changes in phospholipid and sphingolipid metabolic processes and secretions may act as mediators of the RGD-integrin adhesion that promotes porcine conceptus elongation.

Plasma GM2 ganglioside potential biomarker for diagnosis, prognosis and disease monitoring of GM2-Gangliosidosis

GM2-Gangliosidosis are a group of inherited lysosomal storage pathologies characterized by a large accumulation of G_M2 ganglioside in the lysosome. They are caused by mutation in HEXA or HEXB causing reduced or absent activity of a lysosomal β-hexosaminidase A, or mutation in GM2A causing defect in GM2 activator protein (GM2AP), an essential protein for the activity of the enzyme. Biochemical diagnosis relies on the measurement of β-hexosaminidases A and B activities, which is able to detect lysosomal enzyme deficiency but fails to identify defects in GM2AP. We developed a rapid, specific and sensitive liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based method to measure simultaneously G_M1, G_M2, G_M3 and G_D3 molecular species. Gangliosides were analysed in plasma from 19 patients with GM2-Gangliosidosis: Tay-Sachs (n = 9), Sandhoff (n = 9) and AB variant of GM2-Gangliosidosis (n = 1) and compared to 20 age-matched controls. Among patients, 12 have a late adult-juvenile-onset and 7 have an infantile early-onset of the disease. Plasma G_M2 molecular species were increased in all GM2-Gangliosidosis patients (19/19), including the patient with GM2A mutation, compared to control individuals and compared to patients with different other lysosomal storage diseases. G_M234:1 and G_M234:1/G_M334:1 ratio discriminated patients from controls with 100% sensitivity and specificity. G_M234:1 and G_M234:1/G_M334:1 were higher in patients with early-onset compared to those with late-onset of the disease, suggesting a relationship with severity. Longitudinal analysis in one adult with Tay-Sachs disease over 9 years showed a positive correlation of G_M234:1 and G_M234:1/G_M334:1 ratio with age at sampling. We propose that plasma G_M2 34:1 and its ratio to G_M3 34:1 could be sensitive and specific biochemical diagnostic biomarkers for GM2-Gangliosidosis including AB variant and could be useful as a first line diagnostic test and potential biomarkers for monitoring upcoming therapeutic efficacy.

Role of Ceramides and Lysosomes in Extracellular Vesicle Biogenesis, Cargo Sorting and Release

Cells have the ability to communicate with their immediate and distant neighbors through the release of extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs facilitate intercellular signaling through the packaging of specific cargo in all type of cells, and perturbations of EV biogenesis, sorting, release and uptake is the basis of a number of disorders. In this review, we summarize recent advances of the complex roles of the sphingolipid ceramide and lysosomes in the journey of EV biogenesis to uptake.

Neurodegenerative Disorder Risk in Krabbe Disease Carriers

Krabbe disease (KD) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the galactocerebrosidase gene (GALC). Defective GALC causes aberrant metabolism of galactolipids present almost exclusively in myelin, with consequent demyelinization and neurodegeneration of the central and peripheral nervous system (NS). KD shares some similar features with other neuropathies and heterozygous carriers of GALC mutations are emerging with an increased risk in developing NS disorders. In this work, we set out to identify possible variations in the proteomic profile of KD-carrier brain to identify altered pathways that may imbalance its homeostasis and that may be associated with neurological disorders. The differential analysis performed on whole brains from 33-day-old twitcher (galc -/-), heterozygous (galc +/-), and wild-type mice highlighted the dysregulation of several multifunctional factors in both heterozygous and twitcher mice. Notably, the KD-carrier mouse, despite its normal phenotype, presents the deregulation of vimentin, receptor of activated protein C kinase 1 (RACK1), myelin basic protein (MBP), 2',3'-cyclic-nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase (CNP), transitional endoplasmic reticulum ATPase (VCP), and N-myc downstream regulated gene 1 protein (NDRG1) as well as changes in the ubiquitinated-protein pattern. Our findings suggest the carrier may be affected by dysfunctions classically associated with neurodegeneration: (i) alteration of (mechano) signaling and intracellular trafficking, (ii) a generalized affection of proteostasis and lipid metabolism, with possible defects in myelin composition and turnover, and (iii) mitochondrion and energy supply dysfunctions.

Plasma Lysosphingolipid Biomarker Measurement by Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry

Plasma lysosphingolipids are highly elevated in patients with Gaucher, Krabbe, Fabry, and Niemann-Pick diseases and tend to accumulate to a greater extent than their respective primary sphingolipids in the plasma of affected patients. In this chapter, we describe two liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) methods to measure plasma concentrations of four lysosphingolipids species. The first method described measures glucosylsphingosine (lyso-GL1) and galactosylsphingosine (psychosine), biomarkers that accumulate in Gaucher and Krabbe diseases, respectively. The second method measures globotriaosylsphingosine (lyso-Gb3) and sphingosylphosphorylcholine (lyso-SPM), biomarkers for Fabry and Niemann-Pick diseases, respectively. Each method utilizes isotope-labeled internal standards and multipoint calibration curves to quantify the analytes of interest. Briefly, plasma samples are mixed with five volumes of LC-MS grade methanol containing internal standard, and protein is removed via centrifugation. Supernatant is dried and resuspended in initial mobile phase. Samples are separated by liquid chromatography using either a BEH amide column (lyso-GL1 + psychosine) or a C18 column (lyso-Gb3 + lyso-SPM). Protonated analytes are measured by selected reaction monitoring (SRM) in positive electrospray ionization mode. Using these methods, we have observed elevations of these lyso- species in Gaucher, Fabry, and Niemann-Pick and successfully distinguished different subtypes reflecting the disease severity.

CRISPR/nCas9-Based Genome Editing on GM2 Gangliosidoses Fibroblasts via Non-Viral Vectors

The gangliosidoses GM2 are a group of pathologies mainly affecting the central nervous system due to the impaired GM2 ganglioside degradation inside the lysosome. Under physiological conditions, GM2 ganglioside is catabolized by the β-hexosaminidase A in a GM2 activator protein-dependent mechanism. In contrast, uncharged substrates such as globosides and some glycosaminoglycans can be hydrolyzed by the β-hexosaminidase B. Monogenic mutations on HEXA, HEXB, or GM2A genes arise in the Tay–Sachs (TSD), Sandhoff (SD), and AB variant diseases, respectively. In this work, we validated a CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing strategy that relies on a Cas9 nickase (nCas9) as a potential approach for treating GM2 gangliosidoses using in vitro models for TSD and SD. The nCas9 contains a mutation in the catalytic RuvC domain but maintains the active HNH domain, which reduces potential off-target effects. Liposomes (LPs)- and novel magnetoliposomes (MLPs)-based vectors were used to deliver the CRISPR/nCas9 system. When LPs were used as a vector, positive outcomes were observed for the β-hexosaminidase activity, glycosaminoglycans levels, lysosome mass, and oxidative stress. In the case of MLPs, a high cytocompatibility and transfection ratio was observed, with a slight increase in the β-hexosaminidase activity and significant oxidative stress recovery in both TSD and SD cells. These results show the remarkable potential of CRISPR/nCas9 as a new alternative for treating GM2 gangliosidoses, as well as the superior performance of non-viral vectors in enhancing the potency of this therapeutic approach.

Distinct brain lipid signatures in response to low-level PM2.5 exposure in a 3xTg-Alzheimer's disease mouse inhalation model

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) poses a significant risk to human health. The molecular mechanisms underlying low-level PM2.5-induced neurotoxicity in the central nervous system remain unclear. In addition, changes in lipids in response to PM2.5 exposure have not yet been fully elucidated. In this study, 3xTg-Alzheimer's disease (AD) mice experienced continuous whole-body exposure to non-concentrated PM2.5 for three consecutive months, while control mice inhaled particulate matter-filtered air over the same time span. A liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based lipidomic platform was used to determine the distinct lipid profiles of various brain regions. The average PM2.5 concentration during the exposure was 11.38 μg/m3, which was close to the regulation limits of USA and Taiwan. The partial least squares discriminant analysis model showed distinct lipid profiles in the cortex, hippocampus, and olfactory bulb, but not the cerebellum, of mice in the exposure group. Increased levels of fatty acyls, glycerolipids, and sterol lipids, as well as the decreased levels of glycerophospholipids and sphingolipids in PM2.5-exposed mouse brains may be responsible for the increased energy demand, membrane conformation, neuronal loss, antioxidation, myelin function, and cellular signaling pathways associated with AD development. Our research suggests that subchronic exposure to low levels of PM2.5 may cause neurotoxicity by changing the lipid profiles in a susceptible model. Lipidomics is a powerful tool to study the early effects of PM2.5-induced AD toxicity.

Sphingolipids and their role in health and disease in the central nervous system

Sphingolipids (SLs) are lipids derived from sphingosine, and their metabolism involves a broad and complex network of reactions. Although SLs are widely distributed in the body, it is well known that they are present in high concentrations within the central nervous system (CNS). Under physiological conditions, their abundance and distribution in the CNS depend on brain development and cell type. Consequently, SLs metabolism impairment may have a significant impact on the normal CNS function, and has been associated with several disorders, including sphingolipidoses, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's. This review summarizes the main SLs characteristics and current knowledge about synthesis, catabolism, regulatory pathways, and their role in physiological and pathological scenarios in the CNS.

Structural characterization and analysis of different epimers of neutral glycosphingolipid LcGg4 by ion mobility spectrometry-mass spectrometry

LcGg4, a neutral glycosphingolipid (GSL) and cancer antigen, its epimers GalNAc-LcGg4 and GlcNAc-LcGg4, and three lipid forms of GalNAc-LcGg4 were studied by mass spectrometry (MS). It was found that different forms of GalNAc-LcGg4 carrying homologous (d16:1/18:0) and (d18:1/18:0) lipids were easily separated and identified using liquid chromatography (LC)-MS. In addition, like gangliosides, homologous lipid forms of GalNAc-LcGg4 showed the same fragmentation pattern, except for a uniform shift of their glycolipid product ions by a certain m/z number determined by the varied lipid structure. It was also disclosed that LcGg4 and its epimers GalNAc-LcGg4 and GlcNAc-LcGg4, which are different only in the C4-configuration of their non-reducing end sugar residues, gave the same MS/MS product ions in similar relative intensities, as well as the same LC retention time, suggesting the challenge to differentiate epimeric GSLs by LC-MS. However, ion mobility spectrometry (IMS)-MS was able to efficiently separate and distinguish these epimers. This study has demonstrated the promise of IMS-MS for isomeric GSL characterization and the IMS-MS and LC-MS/MS combination for natural GSL analysis.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of GM1 Ganglioside on Endotoxin-Induced Uveitis in Rats

Exogenous ganglioside GM1 has been reported to exert an immunomodulatory effect. We investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of GM1 ganglioside on endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU) in rats and RAW 264.7 macrophages. Methods: EIU was induced in Lewis rats by administering a subcutaneous injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). GM1 was injected intraperitoneally for three consecutive days prior to the LPS injection. Twenty-four hours after the LPS injection, the integrity of the blood-aqueous barrier was evaluated by determining the protein concentration and number of infiltrating cells in the aqueous humor (AqH). Immunohistochemical and Western blot analyses of the iris-ciliary body (ICB) were performed to evaluate the effect of GM1 on the LPS-induced expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). The effect of GM1 on proinflammatory mediators and signaling cascades was examined in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells using Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining to further clarify the underlying anti-inflammatory mechanism. Results: GM1 significantly reduced the protein concentration and number of infiltrating cells in the AqH of rats with EIU. GM1 also decreased the LPS-induced expression of the ICAM-1 and COX-2 proteins in the ICB. In RAW 264.7 cells, GM1 inhibited the proinflammatory mediators induced by LPS, including inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), COX-2, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), and this inhibitory effect was potentially mediated by suppressing transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). Conclusions: Based on this study, GM1 may be a potential anti-inflammatory agent for ocular inflammatory diseases.

Lipid level alteration in human and cellular models of alpha synuclein mutations

Lipid profiles in biological fluids from patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) are increasingly investigated in search of biomarkers. However, the lipid profiles in genetic PD remain to be determined, a gap of knowledge of particular interest in PD associated with mutant α-synuclein (SNCA), given the known relationship between this protein and lipids. The objective of this research is to identify serum lipid composition from SNCA A53T mutation carriers and to compare these alterations to those found in cells and transgenic mice carrying the same genetic mutation. We conducted an unbiased lipidomic analysis of 530 lipid species from 34 lipid classes in serum of 30 participants with SNCA mutation with and without PD and 30 healthy controls. The primary analysis was done between 22 PD patients with SNCA+ (SNCA+/PD+) and 30 controls using machine-learning algorithms and traditional statistics. We also analyzed the lipid composition of human clonal-cell lines and tissue from transgenic mice overexpressing the same SNCA mutation. We identified specific lipid classes that best discriminate between SNCA+/PD+ patients and healthy controls and found certain lipid species, mainly from the glycerophosphatidylcholine and triradylglycerol classes, that are most contributory to this discrimination. Most of these alterations were also present in human derived cells and transgenic mice carrying the same mutation. Our combination of lipidomic and machine learning analyses revealed alterations in glycerophosphatidylcholine and triradylglycerol in sera from PD patients as well as cells and tissues expressing mutant α-Syn. Further investigations are needed to establish the pathogenic significance of these α-Syn-associated lipid changes.

AAV9-coGLB1 Improves Lysosomal Storage and Rescues Central Nervous System Inflammation in a Mutant Mouse Model of GM1 Gangliosidosis

BACKGROUND

GM1 gangliosidosis (GM1) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by deficiency of beta-galactosidase (β-gal), a ubiquitous lysosomal enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of GM1 ganglioside.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the application of the AAV9-coGLB1 for effective treatment in a GM1 gangliosidosis mutant mouse model.

METHODS

We designed a novel adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9) vector expressing β-gal (AAV9-coGLB1) to treat GM1 gangliosidosis. The vector, injected via the caudal vein at 4 weeks of age, drove the widespread and sustained expression of β-gal for up to 32 weeks in the Glb1G455R/G455R mutant mice (GM1 mice).

RESULTS

The increased levels of β-gal reduced the pathological damage occurring in GM1 mice. Histological analyses showed that myelin deficits and neuron-specific pathology were reduced in cerebral cortex region of AAV9-coGLB1-treated mice. Immunohistochemical staining showed that the accumulation of GM1 ganglioside was also reduced after gene therapy. The reduction of the storage in these regions was accompanied by a decrease in activated microglia. In addition, AAV9 treatment reversed the blockade of autophagic flux in GM1 mice.

CONCLUSION

These results show that AAV9-coGLB1 reduces the pathological signs of GM1 gangliosidosis in a mouse model.

Polysaccharide utilization loci in Bacteroides determine population fitness and community-level interactions

Polysaccharide utilization loci (PULs) are co-regulated bacterial genes that sense nutrients and enable glycan digestion. Human gut microbiome members, notably Bacteroides, contain numerous PULs that enable glycan utilization and shape ecological dynamics. To investigate the role of PULs on fitness and inter-species interactions, we develop a CRISPR-based genome editing tool to study 23 PULs in Bacteroides uniformis (BU). BU PULs show distinct glycan-degrading functions and transcriptional coordination that enables the population to adapt upon loss of other PULs. Exploiting a BU mutant barcoding strategy, we demonstrate that in vitro fitness and BU colonization in the murine gut are enhanced by deletion of specific PULs and modulated by glycan availability. PULs mediate glycan-dependent interactions with butyrate producers that depend on the degradation mechanism and glycan utilization ability of the butyrate producer. Thus, PULs determine community dynamics and butyrate production and provide a selective advantage or disadvantage depending on the nutritional landscape.

Design and synthesis of biologically active carbaglycosylamines: From glycosidase inhibitors to pharmacological chaperones

For over 50 years, our group has been involved in synthetic studies on biologically active cyclitols including carbasugars. Among a variety of compounds synthesized, this review focuses on carbaglycosylamine glycosidase inhibitors, highlighting the following: (1) the naturally occurring N-linked carbaoligosaccharide α-amylase inhibitor acarbose and related compounds; (2) the novel synthetic β-glycosidase inhibitors, 1'-epi-acarviosin and its 6-hydroxy analogue as well as β-valienaminylceramide and its 4'-epimer; (3) the discovery of the β-glycosidase inhibitors with chaperone activity, N-octyl-β-valienamine (NOV) and its 4-epimer (NOEV); and (4) the recent development of the potential pharmacological chaperone N-alkyl-conduramine F-4 derivatives.

Lipidomics Prediction of Parkinson's Disease Severity: A Machine-Learning Analysis

BACKGROUND

The role of the lipidome as a biomarker for Parkinson's disease (PD) is a relatively new field that currently only focuses on PD diagnosis.

OBJECTIVE

To identify a relevant lipidome signature for PD severity markers.

METHODS

Disease severity of 149 PD patients was assessed by the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). The lipid composition of whole blood samples was analyzed, consisting of 517 lipid species from 37 classes; these included all major classes of glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, glycerolipids, and sterols. To handle the high number of lipids, the selection of lipid species and classes was consolidated via analysis of interrelations between lipidomics and disease severity prediction using the random forest machine-learning algorithm aided by conventional statistical methods.

RESULTS

Specific lipid classes dihydrosphingomyelin (dhSM), plasmalogen phosphatidylethanolamine (PEp), glucosylceramide (GlcCer), dihydro globotriaosylceramide (dhGB3), and to a lesser degree dihydro GM3 ganglioside (dhGM3), as well as species dhSM(20:0), PEp(38:6), PEp(42:7), GlcCer(16:0), GlcCer(24:1), dhGM3(22:0), dhGM3(16:0), and dhGB3(16:0) contribute to PD severity prediction of UPDRS III score. These, together with age, age at onset, and disease duration, also contribute to prediction of UPDRS total score. We demonstrate that certain lipid classes and species interrelate differently with the degree of severity of motor symptoms between men and women, and that predicting intermediate disease stages is more accurate than predicting less or more severe stages.

CONCLUSION

Using machine-learning algorithms and methodologies, we identified lipid signatures that enable prediction of motor severity in PD. Future studies should focus on identifying the biological mechanisms linking GlcCer, dhGB3, dhSM, and PEp with PD severity.

A Comprehensive Review: Sphingolipid Metabolism and Implications of Disruption in Sphingolipid Homeostasis

Sphingolipids are a specialized group of lipids essential to the composition of the plasma membrane of many cell types; however, they are primarily localized within the nervous system. The amphipathic properties of sphingolipids enable their participation in a variety of intricate metabolic pathways. Sphingoid bases are the building blocks for all sphingolipid derivatives, comprising a complex class of lipids. The biosynthesis and catabolism of these lipids play an integral role in small- and large-scale body functions, including participation in membrane domains and signalling; cell proliferation, death, migration, and invasiveness; inflammation; and central nervous system development. Recently, sphingolipids have become the focus of several fields of research in the medical and biological sciences, as these bioactive lipids have been identified as potent signalling and messenger molecules. Sphingolipids are now being exploited as therapeutic targets for several pathologies. Here we present a comprehensive review of the structure and metabolism of sphingolipids and their many functional roles within the cell. In addition, we highlight the role of sphingolipids in several pathologies, including inflammatory disease, cystic fibrosis, cancer, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, and lysosomal storage disorders.

Ceramide synthases: Reflections on the impact of Dr. Lina M. Obeid

Sphingolipids are a family of lipids that are critical to cell function and survival. Much of the recent work done on sphingolipids has been performed by a closely-knit family of sphingolipid researchers, which including our colleague, Dr. Lina Obeid, who recently passed away. We now briefly review where the sphingolipid field stands today, focusing in particular on areas of sphingolipid research to which Dr. Obeid made valued contributions. These include the 'many-worlds' view of ceramides and the role of a key enzyme in the sphingolipid biosynthetic pathway, namely the ceramide synthases (CerS). The CerS contain a number of functional domains and also interact with a number of other proteins in lipid metabolic pathways, fulfilling Dr. Obeid's prophecy that ceramides, and the enzymes that generate ceramides, form the critical hub of the sphingolipid metabolic pathway.

Gangliosides in Podocyte Biology and Disease

Gangliosides constitute a subgroup of glycosphingolipids characterized by the presence of sialic acid residues in their structure. As constituents of cellular membranes, in particular of raft microdomains, they exert multiple functions, some of them capital in cell homeostasis. Their presence in cells is tightly regulated by a balanced expression and function of the enzymes responsible for their biosynthesis, ganglioside synthases, and their degradation, glycosidases. The dysregulation of their abundance results in rare and common diseases. In this review, we make a point on the relevance of gangliosides and some of their metabolic precursors, such as ceramides, in the function of podocytes, the main cellular component of the glomerular filtration barrier, as well as their implications in podocytopathies. The results presented in this review suggest the pertinence of clinical lipidomic studies targeting these metabolites.

Alkaline ceramidase family: The first two decades

Ceramidases are a group of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of ceramide, dihydroceramide, and phytoceramide into sphingosine (SPH), dihydrosphingosine (DHS), and phytosphingosine (PHS), respectively, along with a free fatty acid. Ceramidases are classified into the acid, neutral, and alkaline ceramidase subtypes according to the pH optima for their catalytic activity. YPC1 and YDC1 were the first alkaline ceramidase genes to be identified and cloned from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae two decades ago. Subsequently, alkaline ceramidase genes were identified from other species, including one Drosophila melanogaster ACER gene (Dacer), one Arabidopsis thaliana ACER gene (AtACER), three Mus musculus ACER genes (Acer1, Acer2, and Acer3), and three Homo sapiens ACER genes (ACER1, ACER2, and ACER3). The protein products of these genes constitute a large protein family, termed the alkaline ceramidase (ACER) family. All the biochemically characterized members of the ACER family are integral membrane proteins with seven transmembrane segments in the Golgi complex or endoplasmic reticulum, and they each have unique substrate specificity. An increasing number of studies suggest that the ACER family has diverse roles in regulating sphingolipid metabolism and biological processes. Here we discuss the discovery of the ACER family, the biochemical properties, structures, and catalytic mechanisms of its members, and its role in regulating sphingolipid metabolism and biological processes in yeast, insects, plants, and mammals.