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Wang H, Zeng R. Aberrant protein aggregation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurol 2024:10.1007/s00415-024-12485-z. [PMID: 38869826 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12485-z] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal disease. As its pathological mechanisms are not well understood, there are no efficient therapeutics for it at present. While it is highly heterogenous both etiologically and clinically, it has a common salient hallmark, i.e., aberrant protein aggregation (APA). The upstream pathogenesis and the downstream effects of APA in ALS are sophisticated and the investigation of this pathology would be of consequence for understanding ALS. In this paper, the pathomechanism of APA in ALS and the candidate treatment strategies for it are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaixiu Wang
- Department Neurology, Shanxi Provincial Peoples Hospital: Fifth Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030012, China.
- Beijing Ai-Si-Kang Medical Technology Co. Ltd., No. 18 11th St Economical & Technological Development Zone, Beijing, 100176, China.
| | - Rong Zeng
- Department Neurology, Shanxi Provincial Peoples Hospital: Fifth Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030012, China
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2
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Xin J, Huang S, Wen J, Li Y, Li A, Satyanarayanan SK, Yao X, Su H. Drug Screening and Validation Targeting TDP-43 Proteinopathy for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Aging Dis 2024:AD.2024.0440. [PMID: 38739934 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2024.0440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) stands as a rare, yet severely debilitating disorder marked by the deterioration of motor neurons (MNs) within the brain and spinal cord, which is accompanied by degenerated corticobulbar/corticospinal tracts and denervation in skeletal muscles. Despite ongoing research efforts, ALS remains incurable, attributed to its intricate pathogenic mechanisms. A notable feature in the pathology of ALS is the prevalence of TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) proteinopathy, detected in approximately 97% of ALS cases, underscoring its significance in the disease's progression. As a result, strategies targeting the aberrant TDP-43 protein have garnered attention as a potential avenue for ALS therapy. This review delves into the existing drug screening systems aimed at TDP-43 proteinopathy and the models employed for drug efficacy validation. It also explores the hurdles encountered in the quest to develop potent medications against TDP-43 proteinopathy, offering insights into the intricacies of drug discovery and development for ALS. Through this comprehensive analysis, the review sheds light on the critical aspects of identifying and advancing therapeutic solutions for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Xin
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Sen Huang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases; National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Yunhao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Ang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Senthil Kumaran Satyanarayanan
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaoli Yao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases; National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huanxing Su
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
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3
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Chen TY, Lin SP, Huang DF, Huang HS, Tsai FC, Lee LJ, Lin HY, Huang HP. Mature neurons from iPSCs unveil neurodegeneration-related pathways in mucopolysaccharidosis type II: GSK-3β inhibition for therapeutic potential. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:302. [PMID: 38684682 PMCID: PMC11058230 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06692-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) type II is caused by a deficiency of iduronate-2-sulfatase and is characterized by the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Without effective therapy, the severe form of MPS II causes progressive neurodegeneration and death. This study generated multiple clones of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and their isogenic controls (ISO) from four patients with MPS II neurodegeneration. MPS II-iPSCs were successfully differentiated into cortical neurons with characteristic biochemical and cellular phenotypes, including axonal beadings positive for phosphorylated tau, and unique electrophysiological abnormalities, which were mostly rescued in ISO-iPSC-derived neurons. RNA sequencing analysis uncovered dysregulation in three major signaling pathways, including Wnt/β-catenin, p38 MAP kinase, and calcium pathways, in mature MPS II neurons. Further mechanistic characterization indicated that the dysregulation in calcium signaling led to an elevated intracellular calcium level, which might be linked to compromised survival of neurons. Based on these dysregulated pathways, several related chemicals and drugs were tested using this mature MPS II neuron-based platform and a small-molecule glycogen synthase kinase-3β inhibitor was found to significantly rescue neuronal survival, neurite morphology, and electrophysiological abnormalities in MPS II neurons. Our results underscore that the MPS II-iPSC-based platform significantly contributes to unraveling the mechanisms underlying the degeneration and death of MPS II neurons and assessing potential drug candidates. Furthermore, the study revealed that targeting the specific dysregulation of signaling pathways downstream of GAG accumulation in MPS II neurons with a well-characterized drug could potentially ameliorate neuronal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Yu Chen
- Graduate Institute of Medical Genomics and Proteomics, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shuan-Pei Lin
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Department of Pediatrics, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - De-Fong Huang
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Sung Huang
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Feng-Chiao Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Jen Lee
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Neurobiology and Cognitive Science Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiang-Yu Lin
- Department of Medicine, MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Department of Pediatrics, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiang-Po Huang
- Graduate Institute of Medical Genomics and Proteomics, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.
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4
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Cuevas EP, Martinez-Gonzalez L, Gordillo C, Tosat-Bitrián C, Pérez de la Lastra C, Sáenz A, Gil C, Palomo V, Martin-Requero Á, Martinez A. Casein kinase 1 inhibitor avoids TDP-43 pathology propagation in a patient-derived cellular model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 192:106430. [PMID: 38325718 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106430] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a fatal neurodegenerative disease without a cure to reverse its progression. Its main hallmark is the nuclear protein TDP-43, which undergoes different post-translational modifications leading to a loss of function in the nucleus and an increase in toxicity in the cytoplasm. Previous reports have indicated that pathogenic TDP-43 exhibits prion-like propagation in various contexts. With the aim of advancing therapeutics focused on preventing the propagation of TDP-43 pathology, we studied the potential role of pathogenic TDP-43 in lymphoblasts from sporadic ALS patients. We used lymphoblastoid cell lines from sporadic ALS patients as a source of pathogenic forms of TDP-43, and healthy human cells (lymphoblasts, myoblasts, neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y, or osteosarcoma U2OS) as recipient cells to investigate the seeding and spread of TDP-43 proteinopathy. Furthermore, we evaluated the potential of targeting TDP-43 phosphorylation with a CK-1 inhibitor to prevent the propagation of the pathology. The results presented herein indicate that pathogenic forms of TDP-43 are secreted into the extracellular medium of sporadic ALS lymphoblasts and could be transported by extracellular vesicles, spreading TDP-43 pathology to healthy cells. Moreover, tunneling nanotubes have also been discovered in pathological cells and may be involved in the transport of TDP-43. Interestingly, targeting TDP-43 phosphorylation with an in-house designed CK-1 inhibitor (IGS2.7) was sufficient to halt TDP-43 pathology transmission, in addition to its known effects on restoring the homeostasis of TDP-43 protein in patients-derived cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva P Cuevas
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas "Margarita Salas"-CSIC, Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Loreto Martinez-Gonzalez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas "Margarita Salas"-CSIC, Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Clara Gordillo
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas "Margarita Salas"-CSIC, Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlota Tosat-Bitrián
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas "Margarita Salas"-CSIC, Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Pérez de la Lastra
- Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados en Nanociencia (IMDEA-Nanociencia), C/Faraday 9, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Amets Sáenz
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain; Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Neurosciences Area, 20014 San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Carmen Gil
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas "Margarita Salas"-CSIC, Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Valle Palomo
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain; Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados en Nanociencia (IMDEA-Nanociencia), C/Faraday 9, Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángeles Martin-Requero
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas "Margarita Salas"-CSIC, Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Martinez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas "Margarita Salas"-CSIC, Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
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Turkistani A, Al-Kuraishy HM, Al-Gareeb AI, Albuhadily AK, Alexiou A, Papadakis M, Elfiky MM, Saad HM, Batiha GES. Therapeutic Potential Effect of Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 Beta (GSK-3β) Inhibitors in Parkinson Disease: Exploring an Overlooked Avenue. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04003-z. [PMID: 38367137 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04003-z] [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: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease of the brain due to degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN). Glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β) is implicated in the pathogenesis of PD. Therefore, the purpose of the present review was to revise the mechanistic role of GSK-3β in PD neuropathology, and how GSK-3β inhibitors affect PD neuropathology. GSK-3 is a conserved threonine/serine kinase protein that is intricate in the regulation of cellular anabolic and catabolic pathways by modulating glycogen synthase. Over-expression of GSK-3β is also interconnected with the development of different neurodegenerative diseases. However, the underlying mechanism of GSK-3β in PD neuropathology is not fully clarified. Over-expression of GSK-3β induces the development of PD by triggering mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress in the dopaminergic neurons of the SN. NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome are activated in response to dysregulated GSK-3β in PD leading to progressive neuronal injury. Higher expression of GSK-3β in the early stages of PD neuropathology might contribute to the reduction of neuroprotective brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Thus, GSK-3β inhibitors may be effective in PD by reducing inflammatory and oxidative stress disorders which are associated with degeneration of dopaminergic in the SN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areej Turkistani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, Taif University, 21944, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hayder M Al-Kuraishy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Mustansiriyah University, P.O. Box 14132, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Ali I Al-Gareeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Mustansiriyah University, P.O. Box 14132, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Ali K Albuhadily
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Mustansiriyah University, P.O. Box 14132, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Athanasios Alexiou
- University Centre for Research & Development, Chandigarh University, Chandigarh-Ludhiana Highway, Mohali, Punjab, India
- Department of Research & Development, Funogen, Athens, Greece
- Department of Research & Development, AFNP Med, 1030, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Science and Engineering, Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Hebersham, NSW, 2770, Australia
| | - Marios Papadakis
- Department of Surgery II, University Hospital Witten-Herdecke, Heusnerstrasse 40, University of Witten-Herdecke, 42283, Wuppertal, Germany.
| | - Mohamed M Elfiky
- Anatomy Department, General Medicine Practice Program, Batterjee Medical College, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Anatomy Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shibin El Kom, Al Minufya, Egypt
| | - Hebatallah M Saad
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Matrouh University, Matrouh, 51744, Egypt
| | - Gaber El-Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, 22511, AlBeheira, Egypt
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Tziortzouda P, Steyaert J, Scheveneels W, Sicart A, Stoklund Dittlau K, Barbosa Correia AM, Burg T, Pal A, Hermann A, Van Damme P, Moens TG, Van Den Bosch L. PP2A and GSK3 act as modifiers of FUS-ALS by modulating mitochondrial transport. Acta Neuropathol 2024; 147:41. [PMID: 38363426 PMCID: PMC10873455 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-024-02689-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease which currently lacks effective treatments. Mutations in the RNA-binding protein FUS are a common cause of familial ALS, accounting for around 4% of the cases. Understanding the mechanisms by which mutant FUS becomes toxic to neurons can provide insight into the pathogenesis of both familial and sporadic ALS. We have previously observed that overexpression of wild-type or ALS-mutant FUS in Drosophila motor neurons is toxic, which allowed us to screen for novel genetic modifiers of the disease. Using a genome-wide screening approach, we identified Protein Phosphatase 2A (PP2A) and Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 (GSK3) as novel modifiers of FUS-ALS. Loss of function or pharmacological inhibition of either protein rescued FUS-associated lethality in Drosophila. Consistent with a conserved role in disease pathogenesis, pharmacological inhibition of both proteins rescued disease-relevant phenotypes, including mitochondrial trafficking defects and neuromuscular junction failure, in patient iPSC-derived spinal motor neurons (iPSC-sMNs). In FUS-ALS flies, mice, and human iPSC-sMNs, we observed reduced GSK3 inhibitory phosphorylation, suggesting that FUS dysfunction results in GSK3 hyperactivity. Furthermore, we found that PP2A acts upstream of GSK3, affecting its inhibitory phosphorylation. GSK3 has previously been linked to kinesin-1 hyperphosphorylation. We observed this in both flies and iPSC-sMNs, and we rescued this hyperphosphorylation by inhibiting GSK3 or PP2A. Moreover, increasing the level of kinesin-1 expression in our Drosophila model strongly rescued toxicity, confirming the relevance of kinesin-1 hyperphosphorylation. Our data provide in vivo evidence that PP2A and GSK3 are disease modifiers, and reveal an unexplored mechanistic link between PP2A, GSK3, and kinesin-1, that may be central to the pathogenesis of FUS-ALS and sporadic forms of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paraskevi Tziortzouda
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jolien Steyaert
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Wendy Scheveneels
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Adria Sicart
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Katarina Stoklund Dittlau
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Adriana Margarida Barbosa Correia
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
- Instituto Superior Técnico-Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Thibaut Burg
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Arun Pal
- Dresden High Magnetic Field Laboratory (HLD-EMFL), Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden Rossendorf, 01328, Dresden, Germany
- Division of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Andreas Hermann
- Division of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307, Dresden, Germany
- Translational Neurodegeneration Section "Albrecht Kossel", Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Rostock, University of Rostock, 18147, Rostock, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Fur Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE) Rostock/Greifswald, 18147, Rostock, Germany
- Center for Transdisciplinary Neurosciences Rostock (CTNR), University Medical Center Rostock, University of Rostock, 18147, Rostock, Germany
| | - Philip Van Damme
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Thomas G Moens
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
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Sunildutt N, Ahmed F, Chethikkattuveli Salih AR, Lim JH, Choi KH. Integrating Transcriptomic and Structural Insights: Revealing Drug Repurposing Opportunities for Sporadic ALS. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:3793-3806. [PMID: 38284068 PMCID: PMC10809234 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c07296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and devastating neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of upper and lower motor neurons, resulting in debilitating muscle weakness and atrophy. Currently, there are no effective treatments available for ALS, posing significant challenges in managing the disease that affects approximately two individuals per 100,000 people annually. To address the urgent need for effective ALS treatments, we conducted a drug repurposing study using a combination of bioinformatics tools and molecular docking techniques. We analyzed sporadic ALS-related genes from the GEO database and identified key signaling pathways involved in sporadic ALS pathogenesis through pathway analysis using DAVID. Subsequently, we utilized the Clue Connectivity Map to identify potential drug candidates and performed molecular docking using AutoDock Vina to evaluate the binding affinity of short-listed drugs to key sporadic ALS-related genes. Our study identified Cefaclor, Diphenidol, Flubendazole, Fluticasone, Lestaurtinib, Nadolol, Phenamil, Temozolomide, and Tolterodine as potential drug candidates for repurposing in sporadic ALS treatment. Notably, Lestaurtinib demonstrated high binding affinity toward multiple proteins, suggesting its potential as a broad-spectrum therapeutic agent for sporadic ALS. Additionally, docking analysis revealed NOS3 as the gene that interacts with all the short-listed drugs, suggesting its possible involvement in the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic potential of these drugs in sporadic ALS. Overall, our study provides a systematic framework for identifying potential drug candidates for sporadic ALS therapy and highlights the potential of drug repurposing as a promising strategy for discovering new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naina Sunildutt
- Department
of Mechatronics Engineering, Jeju National
University, Jeju63243, Republic
of Korea
| | - Faheem Ahmed
- Department
of Mechatronics Engineering, Jeju National
University, Jeju63243, Republic
of Korea
| | - Abdul Rahim Chethikkattuveli Salih
- Department
of Mechatronics Engineering, Jeju National
University, Jeju63243, Republic
of Korea
- Terasaki
Institute for Biomedical InnovationLos Angeles21100, United States
| | - Jong Hwan Lim
- Department
of Mechatronics Engineering, Jeju National
University, Jeju63243, Republic
of Korea
| | - Kyung Hyun Choi
- Department
of Mechatronics Engineering, Jeju National
University, Jeju63243, Republic
of Korea
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8
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Lai S, Wang P, Gong J, Zhang S. New insights into the role of GSK-3β in the brain: from neurodegenerative disease to tumorigenesis. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16635. [PMID: 38107562 PMCID: PMC10722984 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3) is a serine/threonine kinase widely expressed in various tissues and organs. Unlike other kinases, GSK-3 is active under resting conditions and is inactivated upon stimulation. In mammals, GSK-3 includes GSK-3 α and GSK-3β isoforms encoded by two homologous genes, namely, GSK3A and GSK3B. GSK-3β is essential for the control of glucose metabolism, signal transduction, and tissue homeostasis. As more than 100 known proteins have been identified as GSK-3β substrates, it is sometimes referred to as a moonlighting kinase. Previous studies have elucidated the regulation modes of GSK-3β. GSK-3β is involved in almost all aspects of brain functions, such as neuronal morphology, synapse formation, neuroinflammation, and neurological disorders. Recently, several comparatively specific small molecules have facilitated the chemical manipulation of this enzyme within cellular systems, leading to the discovery of novel inhibitors for GSK-3β. Despite these advancements, the therapeutic significance of GSK-3β as a drug target is still complicated by uncertainties surrounding the potential of inhibitors to stimulate tumorigenesis. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the intricate mechanisms of this enzyme and evaluates the existing evidence regarding the therapeutic potential of GSK-3β in brain diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, mood disorders, and glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenjin Lai
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingru Gong
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuaishuai Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute for Brain Research and Rehabilitation, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
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9
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Wang C, Cui Y, Xu T, Zhou Y, Yang R, Wang T. New insights into glycogen synthase kinase-3: A common target for neurodegenerative diseases. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 218:115923. [PMID: 37981175 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115923] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3) is a highly conserved protein serine/threonine kinase that plays a central role in a wide variety of cellular processes to coordinate catabolic and anabolic pathways and regulate cell growth and fate. There is increasing evidence showing that abnormal glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3) is associated with the pathogenesis and progression of many disorders, such as cancer, diabetes, psychiatric diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we summarize recent findings about the regulatory role of GSK-3 in the occurrence and development of multiple neurodegenerative diseases, mainly focusing on Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The aim of this study is to provide new insight into the shared working mechanism of GSK-3 as a therapeutic target of multiple neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengfeng Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China; Institute of Brain Sciences and Related Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, China
| | - Yu Cui
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Tong Xu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck, The Affiliated Qingdao Third People's Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266021, China
| | - Yu Zhou
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China; Institute of Brain Sciences and Related Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, China; Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck, The Affiliated Qingdao Third People's Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266021, China; Department of Health and Life Science, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong 266000, China.
| | - Rong Yang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck, The Affiliated Qingdao Third People's Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266021, China.
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China.
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10
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Yu H, Xiong M, Zhang Z. The role of glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta in neurodegenerative diseases. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1209703. [PMID: 37781096 PMCID: PMC10540228 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1209703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) pose an increasingly prevalent threat to the well-being and survival of elderly individuals worldwide. NDDs include Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and so on. They are characterized by progressive loss or dysfunction of neurons in the central or peripheral nervous system and share several cellular and molecular mechanisms, including protein aggregation, mitochondrial dysfunction, gene mutations, and chronic neuroinflammation. Glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β) is a serine/threonine kinase that is believed to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of NDDs. Here we summarize the structure and physiological functions of GSK3β and explore its involvement in NDDs. We also discussed its potential as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honglu Yu
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Xiong
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhentao Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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11
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Martinez-Gonzalez L, Cuevas EP, Tosat-Bitrián C, Nozal V, Gil C, Palomo V, Martín-Requero Á, Martinez A. TTBK1 and CK1 inhibitors restore TDP-43 pathology and avoid disease propagation in lymphoblast from Alzheimer's disease patients. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1243277. [PMID: 37621404 PMCID: PMC10445132 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1243277] [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: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction TDP-43 proteinopathy in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients is recently emerging as a relevant pathomolecular event that may have been overlooked. Recent results in immortalized lymphocytes from AD patients have shown not only an increase of post-translational modifications in TDP-43, such as hyperphosphorylation and fragmentation, but also its prionic behaviour and cell-to-cell disease transmission. With the main goal to advance therapeutic interventions, we present in this work different kinase inhibitors with potential to restore this pathological mechanism. Methodology We have used immortalized lymphocytes from healthy controls and AD severe patients to evaluate the correction of TDP-43 pathology after the treatment with previously synthetized TTBK1 and CK1 inhibitors. Moreover we used the conditioned mediums of these cells to perform different disease propagation experiments. Results TDP-43 pathology observed in lymphoblasts from severe AD patients is reduced after the treatment with TTBK1 and CK1 inhibitors (decreasing phosphorylation and increasing nuclear localisation), Furthermore, the significant increase in TDP-43 phosphorylation, cytoplasmic accumulation and aberrant F-actin protrusions (TNT-like structures) observed in control cells growing in CM from AD lymphoblasts were abolished when the CM from AD lymphoblasts treated with previously reported TTBK1 and CK1 inhibitors were used. In addition, the cytosolic transport mediated by molecular motors of the receptor cells was altered with the induced TDP-43 pathology, but it was not produced with the abovementioned pretreated CMs. Conclusion TTBK1 and CK1 inhibitors, specially VNG1.47 and IGS2.7 compounds, restore TDP-43 pathology and avoid cell-to-cell propagation in immortalized lymphocytes from AD patients, being excellent candidates for the future therapy of this prevalent and devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loreto Martinez-Gonzalez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas “Margarita Salas”-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva P. Cuevas
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas “Margarita Salas”-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlota Tosat-Bitrián
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas “Margarita Salas”-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Vanesa Nozal
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas “Margarita Salas”-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Gil
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas “Margarita Salas”-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Valle Palomo
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados en Nanociencia (IMDEA-Nanociencia), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángeles Martín-Requero
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas “Margarita Salas”-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Martinez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas “Margarita Salas”-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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12
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Ramakrishna K, Nalla LV, Naresh D, Venkateswarlu K, Viswanadh MK, Nalluri BN, Chakravarthy G, Duguluri S, Singh P, Rai SN, Kumar A, Singh V, Singh SK. WNT-β Catenin Signaling as a Potential Therapeutic Target for Neurodegenerative Diseases: Current Status and Future Perspective. Diseases 2023; 11:89. [PMID: 37489441 PMCID: PMC10366863 DOI: 10.3390/diseases11030089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin (WβC) signaling pathway is an important signaling pathway for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis from the embryonic developmental stages to adulthood. The canonical pathway of WβC signaling is essential for neurogenesis, cell proliferation, and neurogenesis, whereas the noncanonical pathway (WNT/Ca2+ and WNT/PCP) is responsible for cell polarity, calcium maintenance, and cell migration. Abnormal regulation of WβC signaling is involved in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Hence, the alteration of WβC signaling is considered a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of neurodegenerative disease. In the present review, we have used the bibliographical information from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus to address the current prospects of WβC signaling role in the abovementioned neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kakarla Ramakrishna
- KL College of Pharmacy, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation Deemed to be University (KLU), Green Fields, Vaddeswaram, Guntur 522502, India
| | - Lakshmi Vineela Nalla
- KL College of Pharmacy, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation Deemed to be University (KLU), Green Fields, Vaddeswaram, Guntur 522502, India
| | - Dumala Naresh
- KL College of Pharmacy, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation Deemed to be University (KLU), Green Fields, Vaddeswaram, Guntur 522502, India
| | - Kojja Venkateswarlu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, IIT BHU, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Matte Kasi Viswanadh
- KL College of Pharmacy, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation Deemed to be University (KLU), Green Fields, Vaddeswaram, Guntur 522502, India
| | - Buchi N Nalluri
- KL College of Pharmacy, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation Deemed to be University (KLU), Green Fields, Vaddeswaram, Guntur 522502, India
| | - Guntupalli Chakravarthy
- KL College of Pharmacy, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation Deemed to be University (KLU), Green Fields, Vaddeswaram, Guntur 522502, India
| | - Sajusha Duguluri
- Department of Biotechnology, Bharathi Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai 600073, India
| | - Payal Singh
- Department of Zoology, Mahila Maha Vidyalaya, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Sachchida Nand Rai
- Centre of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Ashish Kumar
- ICMR-Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Agamkuan, Patna 800007, India
| | - Veer Singh
- ICMR-Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Agamkuan, Patna 800007, India
| | - Santosh Kumar Singh
- Centre of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
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13
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Quek RT, Hardy KS, Walker SG, Nguyen DT, de Almeida
Magalhães T, Salic A, Gopalakrishnan SM, Silver PA, Mitchison TJ. Screen for Modulation of Nucleocapsid Protein Condensation Identifies Small Molecules with Anti-Coronavirus Activity. ACS Chem Biol 2023; 18:583-594. [PMID: 36795767 PMCID: PMC9942534 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.2c00908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates formed by liquid-liquid phase separation have been implicated in multiple diseases. Modulation of condensate dynamics by small molecules has therapeutic potential, but so far, few condensate modulators have been disclosed. The SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N) protein forms phase-separated condensates that are hypothesized to play critical roles in viral replication, transcription, and packaging, suggesting that N condensation modulators might have anti-coronavirus activity across multiple strains and species. Here, we show that N proteins from all seven human coronaviruses (HCoVs) vary in their tendency to undergo phase separation when expressed in human lung epithelial cells. We developed a cell-based high-content screening platform and identified small molecules that both promote and inhibit condensation of SARS-CoV-2 N. Interestingly, these host-targeted small molecules exhibited condensate-modulatory effects across all HCoV Ns. Some have also been reported to exhibit antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, HCoV-OC43, and HCoV-229E viral infections in cell culture. Our work reveals that the assembly dynamics of N condensates can be regulated by small molecules with therapeutic potential. Our approach allows for screening based on viral genome sequences alone and might enable rapid paths to drug discovery with value for confronting future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Tong Quek
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard
Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United
States
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering,
Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115,
United States
| | - Kierra S. Hardy
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard
Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United
States
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering,
Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115,
United States
| | - Stephen G. Walker
- Drug Discovery Science and Technology,
AbbVie Inc., North Chicago, Illinois 60064, United
States
| | - Dan T. Nguyen
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard
Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United
States
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering,
Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115,
United States
| | | | - Adrian Salic
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard
Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United
States
| | | | - Pamela A. Silver
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard
Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United
States
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering,
Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115,
United States
| | - Timothy J. Mitchison
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard
Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United
States
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14
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Martinez-Gonzalez L, Martinez A. Emerging clinical investigational drugs for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2023; 32:141-160. [PMID: 36762798 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2023.2178416] [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: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by motoneuron death with a median survival time of 3-5 years since disease onset. There are no effective treatments to date. However, a variety of innovative investigational drugs and biological-based therapies are under clinical development. AREAS COVERED This review provides an overview of the clinical investigational small molecules as well as a brief summary of the biological-based therapies that are currently undergoing clinical trials for the treatment of ALS. All the data were obtained from ClinicalTrials.gov (registered through November 1). EXPERT OPINION Drug discovery for ALS is an active and evolving field, where many investigational clinical drugs are in different trials. There are several mechanisms of action supporting all these new therapies, although proteostasis is gaining stage. Probably, small orally bioavailable molecules able to recover functional TDP-43 homeostasis may have solid chances to modify ALS progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loreto Martinez-Gonzalez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas "Margarita Salas"-CSIC, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Martinez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas "Margarita Salas"-CSIC, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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15
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Role of Nrf2 in aging, Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 82:101756. [PMID: 36243357 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear Factor-Erythroid Factor 2 (Nrf2) is an important transcription factor that regulates the expression of large number of genes in healthy and disease states. Nrf2 is made up of 605 amino acids and contains 7 conserved regions known as Nrf2-ECH homology domains. Nrf2 regulates the expression of several key components of oxidative stress, mitochondrial biogenesis, mitophagy, autophagy and mitochondrial function in all organs of the human body, in the peripheral and central nervous systems. Mounting evidence also suggests that altered expression of Nrf2 is largely involved in aging, neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's diseases, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Stroke, Multiple sclerosis and others. The purpose of this article is to detail the essential role of Nrf2 in oxidative stress, antioxidative defense, detoxification, inflammatory responses, transcription factors, proteasomal and autophagic/mitophagic degradation, and metabolism in aging and neurodegenerative diseases. This article also highlights the Nrf2 structural and functional activities in healthy and disease states, and also discusses the current status of Nrf2 research and therapeutic strategies to treat aging and neurodegenerative diseases.
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16
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Jiang J, Wang Y, Deng M. New developments and opportunities in drugs being trialed for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis from 2020 to 2022. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1054006. [PMID: 36518658 PMCID: PMC9742490 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1054006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. In the recent past, there have been just two drugs approved for treatment, riluzole and edaravone, which only prolong survival by a few months. However, there are many novel experimental drugs in development. In this review, we summarize 53 new drugs that have been evaluated in clinical trials from 2020 to 2022, which we have classified into eight mechanistic groups (anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, anti-excitotoxicity, regulated integrated stress response, neurotrophic factors and neuroprotection, anti-aggregation, gene therapy and other). Six were tested in phase 1 studies, 31 were in phase 2 studies, three failed in phase 3 studies and stopped further development, and the remaining 13 drugs were being tested in phase 3 studies, including methylcobalamin, masitinib, MN-166, verdiperstat, memantine, AMX0035, trazodone, CNM-Au8, pridopidine, SLS-005, IONN363, tofersen, and reldesemtiv. Among them, five drugs, including methylcobalamin, masitinib, AMX0035, CNM-Au8, and tofersen, have shown potent therapeutic effects in clinical trials. Recently, AMX0035 has been the third medicine approved by the FDA for the treatment of ALS after riluzole and edaravone.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Min Deng
- Institute of Medical Innovation and Research, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
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17
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Hayes LR, Kalab P. Emerging Therapies and Novel Targets for TDP-43 Proteinopathy in ALS/FTD. Neurotherapeutics 2022; 19:1061-1084. [PMID: 35790708 PMCID: PMC9587158 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-022-01260-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear clearance and cytoplasmic mislocalization of the essential RNA binding protein, TDP-43, is a pathologic hallmark of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, frontotemporal dementia, and related neurodegenerative disorders collectively termed "TDP-43 proteinopathies." TDP-43 mislocalization causes neurodegeneration through both loss and gain of function mechanisms. Loss of TDP-43 nuclear RNA processing function destabilizes the transcriptome by multiple mechanisms including disruption of pre-mRNA splicing, the failure of repression of cryptic exons, and retrotransposon activation. The accumulation of cytoplasmic TDP-43, which is prone to aberrant liquid-liquid phase separation and aggregation, traps TDP-43 in the cytoplasm and disrupts a host of downstream processes including the trafficking of RNA granules, local translation within axons, and mitochondrial function. In this review, we will discuss the TDP-43 therapy development pipeline, beginning with therapies in current and upcoming clinical trials, which are primarily focused on accelerating the clearance of TDP-43 aggregates. Then, we will look ahead to emerging strategies from preclinical studies, first from high-throughput genetic and pharmacologic screens, and finally from mechanistic studies focused on the upstream cause(s) of TDP-43 disruption in ALS/FTD. These include modulation of stress granule dynamics, TDP-43 nucleocytoplasmic shuttling, RNA metabolism, and correction of aberrant splicing events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey R Hayes
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Dept. of Neurology, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Petr Kalab
- Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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18
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Vergoten G, Bailly C. Molecular docking study of GSK-3β interaction with nomilin, kihadanin B, and related limonoids and triterpenes with a furyl-δ-lactone core. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2022; 36:e23130. [PMID: 35686814 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23130] [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: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) is a target enzyme considered for the treatment of multiple human diseases, from neurodegenerative pathologies to viral infections and cancers. Numerous inhibitors of GSK-3β have been discovered but thus far only a few have reached clinical trials and only one drug, tideglusib (1), has been registered. Natural products targeting GSK-3β have been identified, including the two anticancer limonoids obacunone (5) and gedunin (4), both presenting a furyl-δ-lactone core. To help identifying novel GSK-3β ligands, we have performed a molecular docking study with 15 complementary natural products bearing a furyl-δ-lactone unit (such as limonin (6) and kihadanins A (8) and B (9)) or a closely related structure (such as cedrelone (10) and nimbolide (11)). The formation of GSK-3β-binding complexes for those natural products was compared to reference GSK-3β ATP-competitive inhibitors LY2090314 (3) and AR-A014418 (2). Our in silico analysis led to the identification of two new GSK-3β-binding natural products: kihadanin B (9) and nomilin (7). The latter surpassed the reference compounds in terms of calculated empirical energy of interaction (ΔE). Nomilin (7) can possibly bind to the active site of GSK-3β, notably via the furyl-δ-lactone core and its 1-acetyl group, implicated in the protein interaction. Compound structure-binding relationships are discussed. The study should help the discovery of novel natural products targeting GSK-3β.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gérard Vergoten
- Inserm, INFINITE - U1286, Institut de Chimie Pharmaceutique Albert Lespagnol (ICPAL), Faculté de Pharmacie, University of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Christian Bailly
- OncoWitan, Scientific Consulting Office, Lille, Wasquehal, France
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19
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Ojaimi YA, Dangoumau A, Alarcan H, Hergesheimer R, Vourc'h P, Corcia P, Lanznaster D, Blasco H. TAR DNA-binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP-43) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): a promising therapeutic target. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:575-592. [PMID: 35652285 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2083958] [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] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that lacks an effective treatment. Aggregates of the TAR DNA-binding protein-43 (TDP-43) are observed in 97% of all ALS cases, thus making this protein a major therapeutic target in ALS. . AREAS COVERED The authors describe the major cellular functions of TDP-43 and the features and consequences of TDP-43 proteinopathy. Drawing from fundamental and preclinical studies on cellular and animal TDP-43 models of ALS and selected clinical trials, the major pathways that have been targeted for the mitigation of TDP-43 pathology in ALS are discussed. The authors provide insights on the approaches targeting the tendency of TDP-43 for aggregation, defective nucleocytoplasmic transport, dysfunctional proteostasis, abnormal stress granule dynamics, and pathological post-translational modifications of TDP-43. EXPERT OPINION The complexity of ALS and TDP-43 proteinopathy generates challenges for the development of novel therapeutic approaches. However, the critical involvement of TDP-43 in the initiation and progression of ALS, makes it a promising therapeutic target. Further research should be centered on the development of precision strategies, consideration of patient subgroups, the prevention of the mislocalization of TDP-43 and restoration of the lost functions of TPD-43. .
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hugo Alarcan
- UMR 1253 iBrain, Université de Tours, Tours, France.,Laboratoire de biochimie et biologie moléculaire, CHRU Bretonneau, Tours, France
| | | | - Patrick Vourc'h
- UMR 1253 iBrain, Université de Tours, Tours, France.,Laboratoire de biochimie et biologie moléculaire, CHRU Bretonneau, Tours, France
| | - Philippe Corcia
- Laboratoire de biochimie et biologie moléculaire, CHRU Bretonneau, Tours, France.,Service de neurologie, CHRU Bretonneau, Tours, France
| | | | - Hélène Blasco
- UMR 1253 iBrain, Université de Tours, Tours, France.,Laboratoire de biochimie et biologie moléculaire, CHRU Bretonneau, Tours, France
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20
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Abstract
Wnt signaling pathways have been extensively studied in the context of several diseases, including cancer, coronary artery disease, and age-related disorders. β-Catenin plays a central role in the most studied Wnt pathways, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, commonly referred to as the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. β-catenin is a substrate of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β), and the phosphorylated β-catenin by GSK-3β can be degraded by the proteasome through ubiquitination. Thus, GSK-3β inhibitors have become a widely used chemical biology tool to study the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. Among the varied GSK-3β inhibitors, a compound known as CHIR-99021 is one of the most widely used. Although these inhibitors contribute greatly to our understanding of the canonical Wnt pathway, certain pitfalls associated with such an approach may have been overlooked. In many published studies, micromolar concentrations of CHIR-99021 are used to activate the canonical Wnt pathway. Although CHIR-99021 is a specific GSK-3β inhibitor, it specifically inhibits the kinase at the nanomolar level. Therefore, caution is required when micromolar levels of CHIR-99021 are used for the purpose of activating the canonical Wnt signaling pathway.
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21
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Tastan B, Arioz BI, Genc S. Targeting NLRP3 Inflammasome With Nrf2 Inducers in Central Nervous System Disorders. Front Immunol 2022; 13:865772. [PMID: 35418995 PMCID: PMC8995746 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.865772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The NLRP3 inflammasome is an intracellular multiprotein complex that plays an essential role in the innate immune system by identifying and eliminating a plethora of endogenous and exogenous threats to the host. Upon activation of the NLRP3 complex, pro-inflammatory cytokines are processed and released. Furthermore, activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome complex can induce pyroptotic cell death, thereby propagating the inflammatory response. The aberrant activity and detrimental effects of NLRP3 inflammasome activation have been associated with cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, metabolic, and inflammatory diseases. Therefore, clinical strategies targeting the inhibition of the self-propelled NLRP3 inflammasome activation are required. The transcription factor Nrf2 regulates cellular stress response, controlling the redox equilibrium, metabolic programming, and inflammation. The Nrf2 pathway participates in anti-oxidative, cytoprotective, and anti-inflammatory activities. This prominent regulator, through pharmacologic activation, could provide a therapeutic strategy for the diseases to the etiology and pathogenesis of which NLRP3 inflammasome contributes. In this review, current knowledge on NLRP3 inflammasome activation and Nrf2 pathways is presented; the relationship between NLRP3 inflammasome signaling and Nrf2 pathway, as well as the pre/clinical use of Nrf2 activators against NLRP3 inflammasome activation in disorders of the central nervous system, are thoroughly described. Cumulative evidence points out therapeutic use of Nrf2 activators against NLRP3 inflammasome activation or diseases that NLRP3 inflammasome contributes to would be advantageous to prevent inflammatory conditions; however, the side effects of these molecules should be kept in mind before applying them to clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bora Tastan
- Genc Laboratory, Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey,Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Burak I. Arioz
- Genc Laboratory, Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey,Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sermin Genc
- Genc Laboratory, Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey,Department of Neuroscience, Health Sciences Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey,*Correspondence: Sermin Genc,
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22
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Activation of the Nrf2 Pathway as a Therapeutic Strategy for ALS Treatment. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27051471. [PMID: 35268572 PMCID: PMC8911691 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27051471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a progressive and fatal disease that causes motoneurons degeneration and functional impairment of voluntary muscles, with limited and poorly efficient therapies. Alterations in the Nrf2-ARE pathway are associated with ALS pathology and result in aberrant oxidative stress, making the stimulation of the Nrf2-mediated antioxidant response a promising therapeutic strategy in ALS to reduce oxidative stress. In this review, we first introduce the involvement of the Nrf2 pathway in the pathogenesis of ALS and the role played by astrocytes in modulating such a protective pathway. We then describe the currently developed activators of Nrf2, used in both preclinical animal models and clinical studies, taking into consideration their potentialities as well as the possible limitations associated with their use.
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23
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TDP-43 Modulation by Tau-Tubulin Kinase 1 Inhibitors: A New Avenue for Future Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Therapy. J Med Chem 2022; 65:1585-1607. [PMID: 34978799 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease without any effective treatment. Protein TDP-43 is a pathological hallmark of ALS in both sporadic and familiar patients. Post-translational modifications of TDP-43 promote its aggregation in the cytoplasm. Tau-Tubulin kinase (TTBK1) phosphorylates TDP-43 in cellular and animal models; thus, TTBK1 inhibitors emerge as a promising therapeutic strategy for ALS. The design, synthesis, biological evaluation, kinase-ligand complex structure determination, and molecular modeling studies confirmed novel pyrrolopyrimidine derivatives as valuable inhibitors for further development. Moreover, compound 29 revealed good brain penetration in vivo and was able to reduce TDP-43 phosphorylation not only in cell cultures but also in the spinal cord of transgenic TDP-43 mice. A shift to M2 anti-inflammatory microglia was also demonstrated in vivo. Both these activities led to motor neuron preservation in mice, proposing pyrrolopyrimidine 29 as a valuable lead compound for future ALS therapy.
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