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Zarate-Lopez D, Torres-Chávez AL, Gálvez-Contreras AY, Gonzalez-Perez O. Three Decades of Valproate: A Current Model for Studying Autism Spectrum Disorder. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:260-289. [PMID: 37873949 PMCID: PMC10788883 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x22666231003121513] [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: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with increased prevalence and incidence in recent decades. Its etiology remains largely unclear, but it seems to involve a strong genetic component and environmental factors that, in turn, induce epigenetic changes during embryonic and postnatal brain development. In recent decades, clinical studies have shown that inutero exposure to valproic acid (VPA), a commonly prescribed antiepileptic drug, is an environmental factor associated with an increased risk of ASD. Subsequently, prenatal VPA exposure in rodents has been established as a reliable translational model to study the pathophysiology of ASD, which has helped demonstrate neurobiological changes in rodents, non-human primates, and brain organoids from human pluripotent stem cells. This evidence supports the notion that prenatal VPA exposure is a valid and current model to replicate an idiopathic ASD-like disorder in experimental animals. This review summarizes and describes the current features reported with this animal model of autism and the main neurobiological findings and correlates that help elucidate the pathophysiology of ASD. Finally, we discuss the general framework of the VPA model in comparison to other environmental and genetic ASD models.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Zarate-Lopez
- Laboratory of Neuroscience, School of Psychology, University of Colima, Colima 28040, México
- Physiological Science Ph.D. Program, School of Medicine, University of Colima, Colima 28040, Mexico
| | - Ana Laura Torres-Chávez
- Laboratory of Neuroscience, School of Psychology, University of Colima, Colima 28040, México
- Physiological Science Ph.D. Program, School of Medicine, University of Colima, Colima 28040, Mexico
| | - Alma Yadira Gálvez-Contreras
- Department of Neuroscience, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, México
| | - Oscar Gonzalez-Perez
- Laboratory of Neuroscience, School of Psychology, University of Colima, Colima 28040, México
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Saadat M, Taherian AA, Aldaghi MR, Raise‐Abdullahi P, Sameni HR, Vafaei AA. Prangos ferulacea (L.) ameliorates behavioral alterations, hippocampal oxidative stress markers, and apoptotic deficits in a rat model of autism induced by valproic acid. Brain Behav 2023; 13:e3224. [PMID: 37596045 PMCID: PMC10636422 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) may enhance the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children. This study investigated the effect of Prangos ferulacea (L.) on behavioral alterations, hippocampal oxidative stress markers, and apoptotic deficits in a rat model of autism induced by valproic acid. METHODS Pregnant rats received VPA (600 mg/kg, intraperitoneally [i.p.]) or saline on gestational day 12.5 (E 12.5). Starting from the 30th postnatal day (PND 30), the pups were i.p. administered Prangos ferulacea (PF, 100 and 200 mg/kg), or the vehicle, daily until PND 58. On PND 30 and 58, various behavioral tasks were used to evaluate pups, including the open field, elevated plus-maze, hot-plate, and rotarod test. On PND 65, the animals were euthanized, and their brains were removed for histopathological and biochemical assay. RESULTS Prenatal exposure to VPA caused significant behavioral changes in the offspring, reversed by administering an extract of Prangos ferulacea (L.). Additionally, prenatal VPA administration resulted in increased levels of malondialdehyde and deficits in antioxidant enzyme activities in the hippocampus, including catalase and glutathione, ameliorated by PF. Likewise, postnatal treatment with PF improved VPA-induced dysregulation of Bax and Blc2 in the hippocampus and reduced neuronal death in CA1, CA3, and dentate gyrus. CONCLUSION The findings of this study suggest that postnatal administration of PF can prevent VPA-induced ASD-like behaviors by exhibiting antiapoptotic and antioxidant properties. Therefore, PF may have the potential as an adjunct in the management of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Saadat
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of MedicineSemnan University of Medical SciencesSemnanIran
| | - Abbas Ali Taherian
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of MedicineSemnan University of Medical SciencesSemnanIran
- Research Center of PhysiologySemnan University of Medical SciencesSemnanIran
| | - Mohammad Reza Aldaghi
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research CenterSemnan University of Medical SciencesSemnanIran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of MedicineSemnan University of Medical SciencesSemnanIran
| | | | - Hamid Reza Sameni
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research CenterSemnan University of Medical SciencesSemnanIran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of MedicineSemnan University of Medical SciencesSemnanIran
| | - Abbas Ali Vafaei
- Research Center of PhysiologySemnan University of Medical SciencesSemnanIran
- Department of Physiology, School of MedicineSemnan University of Medical SciencesSemnanIran
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Usui N, Kobayashi H, Shimada S. Neuroinflammation and Oxidative Stress in the Pathogenesis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065487. [PMID: 36982559 PMCID: PMC10049423 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) characterized by impairments in social communication, repetitive behaviors, restricted interests, and hyperesthesia/hypesthesia caused by genetic and/or environmental factors. In recent years, inflammation and oxidative stress have been implicated in the pathogenesis of ASD. In this review, we discuss the inflammation and oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of ASD, particularly focusing on maternal immune activation (MIA). MIA is a one of the common environmental risk factors for the onset of ASD during pregnancy. It induces an immune reaction in the pregnant mother’s body, resulting in further inflammation and oxidative stress in the placenta and fetal brain. These negative factors cause neurodevelopmental impairments in the developing fetal brain and subsequently cause behavioral symptoms in the offspring. In addition, we also discuss the effects of anti-inflammatory drugs and antioxidants in basic studies on animals and clinical studies of ASD. Our review provides the latest findings and new insights into the involvements of inflammation and oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriyoshi Usui
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Global Center for Medical Engineering and Informatics, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Addiction Research Unit, Osaka Psychiatric Research Center, Osaka Psychiatric Medical Center, Osaka 541-8567, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-668-79-3124
| | - Hikaru Kobayashi
- SANKEN (Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research), Osaka University, Suita 567-0047, Japan
| | - Shoichi Shimada
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Global Center for Medical Engineering and Informatics, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Addiction Research Unit, Osaka Psychiatric Research Center, Osaka Psychiatric Medical Center, Osaka 541-8567, Japan
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Amini F, Amini-Khoei H, Haratizadeh S, Setayesh M, Basiri M, Raeiszadeh M, Nozari M. Hydroalcoholic extract of Passiflora incarnata improves the autistic-like behavior and neuronal damage in a valproic acid-induced rat model of autism. J Tradit Complement Med 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcme.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
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Mehra S, Ul Ahsan A, Seth E, Chopra M. Critical Evaluation of Valproic Acid-Induced Rodent Models of Autism: Current and Future Perspectives. J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:1259-1273. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-022-02033-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Schiavi S, La Rosa P, Petrillo S, Carbone E, D'Amico J, Piemonte F, Trezza V. N-Acetylcysteine Mitigates Social Dysfunction in a Rat Model of Autism Normalizing Glutathione Imbalance and the Altered Expression of Genes Related to Synaptic Function in Specific Brain Areas. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:851679. [PMID: 35280167 PMCID: PMC8916240 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.851679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) is a risk factor for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in humans and it induces autistic-like behaviors in rodents. Imbalances between GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission and increased oxidative stress together with altered glutathione (GSH) metabolism have been hypothesized to play a role in both VPA-induced embriotoxicity and in human ASD. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is an antioxidant precursor of glutathione and a modulator of glutamatergic neurotransmission that has been tested in ASD, although the clinical studies currently available provided controversial results. Here, we explored the effects of repeated NAC (150 mg/kg) administration on core autistic-like features and altered brain GSH metabolism in the VPA (500 mg/kg) rat model of ASD. Furthermore, we measured the mRNA expression of genes encoding for scaffolding and transcription regulation proteins, as well as the subunits of NMDA and AMPA receptors and metabotropic glutamate receptors mGLUR1 and mGLUR5 in brain areas that are relevant to ASD. NAC administration ameliorated the social deficit displayed by VPA-exposed rats in the three-chamber test, but not their stereotypic behavior in the hole board test. Furthermore, NAC normalized the altered GSH levels displayed by these animals in the hippocampus and nucleus accumbens, and it partially rescued the altered expression of post-synaptic terminal network genes found in VPA-exposed rats, such as NR2a, MGLUR5, GLUR1, and GLUR2 in nucleus accumbens, and CAMK2, NR1, and GLUR2 in cerebellum. These data indicate that NAC treatment selectively mitigates the social dysfunction displayed by VPA-exposed rats normalizing GSH imbalance and reestablishing the expression of genes related to synaptic function in a brain region-specific manner. Taken together, these data contribute to clarify the behavioral impact of NAC in ASD and the molecular mechanisms that underlie its effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Schiavi
- Department of Science, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Piergiorgio La Rosa
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Petrillo
- Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Emilia Carbone
- Department of Science, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Jessica D'Amico
- Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Fiorella Piemonte
- Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Diseases Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Viviana Trezza
- Department of Science, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
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Liu X, Lin J, Zhang H, Khan NU, Zhang J, Tang X, Cao X, Shen L. Oxidative Stress in Autism Spectrum Disorder-Current Progress of Mechanisms and Biomarkers. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:813304. [PMID: 35299821 PMCID: PMC8921264 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.813304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a type of neurodevelopmental disorder that has been diagnosed in an increasing number of children around the world. Existing data suggest that early diagnosis and intervention can improve ASD outcomes. However, the causes of ASD remain complex and unclear, and there are currently no clinical biomarkers for autism spectrum disorder. More mechanisms and biomarkers of autism have been found with the development of advanced technology such as mass spectrometry. Many recent studies have found a link between ASD and elevated oxidative stress, which may play a role in its development. ASD is caused by oxidative stress in several ways, including protein post-translational changes (e.g., carbonylation), abnormal metabolism (e.g., lipid peroxidation), and toxic buildup [e.g., reactive oxygen species (ROS)]. To detect elevated oxidative stress in ASD, various biomarkers have been developed and employed. This article summarizes recent studies about the mechanisms and biomarkers of oxidative stress. Potential biomarkers identified in this study could be used for early diagnosis and evaluation of ASD intervention, as well as to inform and target ASD pharmacological or nutritional treatment interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xukun Liu
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology and Ecology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing Lin
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huajie Zhang
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Naseer Ullah Khan
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Tang
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xueshan Cao
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liming Shen
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China.,Brain Disease and Big Data Research Institute, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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Turkestani M, Aldosiry N, Hamed N, Bhat RS, El-Ansary A. Learning Difficulties and Oxidative Stress in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Review of the Role of Nutritional Interventions. NEUROCHEM J+ 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s1819712421040140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Lee TM, Lee KM, Lee CY, Lee HC, Tam KW, Loh EW. Effectiveness of N-acetylcysteine in autism spectrum disorders: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2021; 55:196-206. [PMID: 32900213 DOI: 10.1177/0004867420952540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Currently, pharmaceutical treatment options for autism spectrum disorder are limited. Brain glutaminergic dysregulation is observed in autism spectrum disorder. N-acetylcysteine, which can be converted to glutathione and subsequently release glutamate into the extracellular space, and thus reduce glutamatergic neurotransmission at synapses, is considered a potential drug for autism spectrum disorder treatment. Here, we analyzed the treatment effects of N-acetylcysteine on autism spectrum disorder in randomized controlled trials. STUDY DESIGN Updated systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES By systematically searching the PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library, we obtained five randomized controlled trials. STUDY SELECTION Meta-analyses were performed to examine the improvement in autistic behaviors as measured by the Aberrant Behavior Checklist, Social Responsiveness Scale and Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised, using mean difference with a 95% confidence interval and a random-effects model. DATA SYNTHESIS After 8-12 weeks of N-acetylcysteine supplementation, the pooled result of four trials revealed an improvement in Aberrant Behavior Checklist total score (mean difference = 1.31, 95% confidence interval = [0.42, 2.20]). When one trial was excluded, the sensitivity test result was stronger (mean difference = 1.88, 95% confidence interval = [0.92, 2.83]). The pooled results of three trials revealed significant improvements in hyperactivity (mean difference = 4.80, 95% confidence interval = [1.20, 8.40]) and irritability (mean difference = 4.07, 95% confidence interval = [1.13, 7.04]). Regarding Social Responsiveness Scale, the pooled result of two trials showed significant improvement in social awareness after 8-12 weeks of N-acetylcysteine supplementation (mean difference = 1.34, 95% confidence interval = [0.09, 2.59]). No differences were observed in the pooled results of two trials using Repetitive Behavior Scale, either in the total or the subscales. CONCLUSION We concluded that N-acetylcysteine is safe and tolerable, reduces hyperactivity and irritability and enhances social awareness in children with autism spectrum disorder. However, further evidence should be sought before a general recommendation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Min Lee
- Substitute Military Service, Lo-Sheng Sanatorium and Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, New Taipei City
| | - Kuan-Min Lee
- Department of Family Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, Taipei
| | - Chuan-Ya Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Medical University Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City
| | - Hsin-Chien Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei.,Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei
| | - Ka-Wai Tam
- Center for Evidence-Based Health Care and Shared Decision Making Resource Center, Department of Medical Research, Taipei Medical University Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City.,Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Taipei Medical University Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City.,Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei.,Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei.,Cochrane Taiwan, Taipei Medical University, Taipei
| | - El-Wui Loh
- Center for Evidence-Based Health Care and Shared Decision Making Resource Center, Department of Medical Research, Taipei Medical University Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City.,Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei.,Cochrane Taiwan, Taipei Medical University, Taipei.,Department of Dentistry, Taipei Medical University Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City
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Chen L, Shi XJ, Liu H, Mao X, Gui LN, Wang H, Cheng Y. Oxidative stress marker aberrations in children with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 87 studies (N = 9109). Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:15. [PMID: 33414386 PMCID: PMC7791110 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-020-01135-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
There is increasing awareness that oxidative stress may be implicated in the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Here we aimed to investigate blood oxidative stress marker profile in ASD children by a meta-analysis. Two independent investigators systematically searched Web of Science, PubMed, and Cochrane Library and extracted data from 87 studies with 4928 ASD children and 4181 healthy control (HC) children. The meta-analysis showed that blood concentrations of oxidative glutathione (GSSG), malondialdehyde, homocysteine, S-adenosylhomocysteine, nitric oxide, and copper were higher in children with ASD than that of HC children. In contrast, blood reduced glutathione (GSH), total glutathione (tGSH), GSH/GSSG, tGSH/GSSG, methionine, cysteine, vitamin B9, vitamin D, vitamin B12, vitamin E, S-adenosylmethionine/S-adenosylhomocysteine, and calcium concentrations were significantly reduced in children with ASD relative to HC children. However, there were no significance differences between ASD children and HC children for the other 17 potential markers. Heterogeneities among studies were found for most markers, and meta-regressions indicated that age and publication year may influence the meta-analysis results. These results therefore clarified blood oxidative stress profile in children with ASD, strengthening clinical evidence of increased oxidative stress implicating in pathogenesis of ASD. Additionally, given the consistent and large effective size, glutathione metabolism biomarkers have the potential to inform early diagnosis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Chen
- grid.411077.40000 0004 0369 0529Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Jie Shi
- grid.411077.40000 0004 0369 0529Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Liu
- grid.411077.40000 0004 0369 0529Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Mao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Research, Prevention and Treatment (Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital), Hunan, China
| | - Lue-Ning Gui
- grid.411077.40000 0004 0369 0529Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Research, Prevention and Treatment (Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital), Hunan, China
| | - Yong Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China. .,NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Research, Prevention and Treatment (Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital), Hunan, China.
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Albeely AM, Williams OOF, Perreault ML. GSK-3β Disrupts Neuronal Oscillatory Function to Inhibit Learning and Memory in Male Rats. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2021; 42:1341-1353. [PMID: 33392916 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-020-01020-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Alterations in glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) activity have been implicated in disorders of cognitive impairment, including Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia. Cognitive dysfunction is also characterized by the dysregulation of neuronal oscillatory activity, macroscopic electrical rhythms in brain that are critical to systems communication. A direct functional relationship between GSK-3β and neuronal oscillations has not been elucidated. Therefore, in the present study, using an adeno-associated viral vector containing a persistently active mutant form of GSK-3β, GSK-3β(S9A), the impact of elevated kinase activity in prefrontal cortex (PFC) or ventral hippocampus (vHIP) of rats on neuronal oscillatory activity was evaluated. GSK-3β(S9A)-induced changes in learning and memory were also assessed and the phosphorylation status of tau protein, a substrate of GSK-3β, examined. It was demonstrated that increasing GSK-3β(S9A) activity in either the PFC or vHIP had similar effects on neuronal oscillatory activity, enhancing theta and/or gamma spectral power in one or both regions. Increasing PFC GSK-3β(S9A) activity additionally suppressed high gamma PFC-vHIP coherence. These changes were accompanied by deficits in recognition memory, spatial learning, and/or reversal learning. Elevated pathogenic tau phosphorylation was also evident in regions where GSK-3β(S9A) activity was upregulated. The neurophysiological and learning and memory deficits induced by GSK-3β(S9A) suggest that aberrant GSK-3β signalling may not only play an early role in cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease but may also have a more central involvement in disorders of cognitive dysfunction through the regulation of neurophysiological network function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdalla M Albeely
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada.,Collaborative Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Olivia O F Williams
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Melissa L Perreault
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada. .,Collaborative Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. E, Guelph, ON, Canada.
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12
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Chaliha D, Albrecht M, Vaccarezza M, Takechi R, Lam V, Al-Salami H, Mamo J. A Systematic Review of the Valproic-Acid-Induced Rodent Model of Autism. Dev Neurosci 2020; 42:12-48. [DOI: 10.1159/000509109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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13
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Pangrazzi L, Balasco L, Bozzi Y. Oxidative Stress and Immune System Dysfunction in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21093293. [PMID: 32384730 PMCID: PMC7247582 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) represent a group of neurodevelopmental disorders associated with social and behavioral impairments. Although dysfunctions in several signaling pathways have been associated with ASDs, very few molecules have been identified as potentially effective drug targets in the clinic. Classically, research in the ASD field has focused on the characterization of pathways involved in neural development and synaptic plasticity, which support the pathogenesis of this group of diseases. More recently, immune system dysfunctions have been observed in ASD. In addition, high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which cause oxidative stress, are present in ASD patients. In this review, we will describe the major alterations in the expression of genes coding for enzymes involved in the ROS scavenging system, in both ASD patients and ASD mouse models. In addition, we will discuss, in the context of the most recent literature, the possibility that oxidative stress, inflammation and immune system dysfunction may be connected to, and altogether support, the pathogenesis and/or severity of ASD. Finally, we will discuss the possibility of novel treatments aimed at counteracting the interplay between ROS and inflammation in people with ASD.
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Matsuo K, Yabuki Y, Fukunaga K. 5-aminolevulinic acid inhibits oxidative stress and ameliorates autistic-like behaviors in prenatal valproic acid-exposed rats. Neuropharmacology 2020; 168:107975. [PMID: 31991146 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.107975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) constitute a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social deficits, repetitive behaviors, and learning disability. Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction are associated with ASD brain pathology. Here, we used oxidative stress in prenatal valproic acid (VPA)-exposed rats as an ASD model. After maternal VPA exposure (600 mg/kg, p.o.) on embryonic day (E) 12.5, temporal analyses of oxidative stress in the brain using an anti-4-hydroxy-2-nonenal antibody revealed that oxidative stress was increased in the hippocampus after birth. This was accompanied by aberrant enzymatic activity in the mitochondrial electron transport chain and reduced adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels in the hippocampus. VPA-exposed rats exhibited impaired spatial reference and object recognition memory alongside impaired social behaviors and repetitive behaviors. ASD-like behaviors including learning and memory were rescued by chronic oral administration of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA; 30 mg/kg/day) and intranasal administration of oxytocin (OXT; 12 μg/kg/day), a neuropeptide that improves social behavior in ASD patients. 5-ALA but not OXT treatment ameliorated oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in the hippocampus of VPA-exposed rats. Fewer parvalbumin-positive interneurons were observed in VPA-exposed rats. Both 5-ALA and OXT treatments augmented the number of parvalbumin-positive interneurons. Collectively, our results indicate that oral 5-ALA administration ameliorated oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, suggesting that 5-ALA administration improves ASD-like neuropathology and behaviors via mechanisms different to those of OXT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuya Matsuo
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yasushi Yabuki
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Kohji Fukunaga
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.
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15
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Manivasagam T, Arunadevi S, Essa MM, SaravanaBabu C, Borah A, Thenmozhi AJ, Qoronfleh MW. Role of Oxidative Stress and Antioxidants in Autism. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 24:193-206. [PMID: 32006361 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-30402-7_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental disorders with poorly understood etiology that are defined exclusively on the basis of behavioral observations. This disorder has been linked to increased levels of oxidative stress and lower antioxidant capacity. Oxidative stress in autism has been studied at the membrane level and also by measuring products of lipid peroxidation, detoxifying agents (such as glutathione), and antioxidants involved in the defense system against reactive oxygen species (ROS). Several studies have suggested alterations in the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase in autism. Additionally, altered glutathione levels and homocysteine/methionine metabolism, increased inflammation, excitotoxicity, as well as mitochondrial and immune dysfunction have been suggested in autism. Moreover, environmental and genetic risk factors may intensify vulnerability to oxidative stress in autism. Collectively, these studies suggest increased oxidative stress in autism that may contribute to the development of this disease both in terms of pathogenesis and clinical symptoms. Antioxidant supplementation, or ways to improve the altered metabolite levels in the interconnected transmethylation and transsulfuration pathways, has been associated with decreased autistic behaviors and severity. This chapter provides a conceptual framework on oxidative stress and antioxidants utility. These types of interventions should be further studied in order to determine their effectiveness at improving metabolic imbalances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thamilarasan Manivasagam
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Selvaraj Arunadevi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mustafa Mohamed Essa
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, CAMS, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman.,Ageing and Dementia Research Group, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman.,Food and Brain Research Foundation, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Chidambaram SaravanaBabu
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research (JSSAHER), Mysuru, India
| | - Anupom Borah
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Life Science and Bioinformatics, Assam University, Silchar, Assam, India
| | - Arokiasamy Justin Thenmozhi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - M Walid Qoronfleh
- Research & Policy Department, World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
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16
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Mirza R, Sharma B. Beneficial effects of pioglitazone, a selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ agonist in prenatal valproic acid-induced behavioral and biochemical autistic like features in Wistar rats. Int J Dev Neurosci 2019; 76:6-16. [PMID: 31128204 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2019.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder in children. It is diagnosis by two main behavioral phenotypes i.e. social-communication impairments and repetitive behavior. ASD is complex disorder with unsolved etiology due to multiple genes involvement, epigenetic mechanism and environmental factors. Valproic acid (VPA), a teratogen is known to induce characteristic features related to ASD in rodents. Numerous studies suggest the potential therapeutic effects of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ) in different brain disorders. This research evaluates the utility of selective agonist of PPAR-γ, pioglitazone in prenatal VPA induced experimental ASD symptomatology in Wistar rats. The prenatal administration of VPA has induced social impairment, repetitive behavior, hyperlocomotion, anxiety and low exploratory activity in rats. Also, prenatal VPA-treated rats have shown higher levels of oxidative stress (increased in thiobarbituric acid reactive species, and decreased in reduced glutathione level) and inflammation (increased in interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and decreased in interleukin-10) in the cerebellum, brainstem and prefrontal cortex. Treatment with pioglitazone significantly attenuated the prenatal VPA-induced social impairment, repetitive behavior, hyperactivity, anxiety and low exploratory activity. Furthermore, pioglitazone also reduced the prenatal VPA-induced oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in aforementioned brain regions. Hence, it may be concluded that pioglitazone may provide neurobehavioral and biochemical benefits in prenatal VPA-induced autistic phenotypes in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roohi Mirza
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Bhupesh Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Uttar Pradesh, India.,CNS Pharmacology, Conscience Research, Delhi, India
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17
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Kuo HY, Liu FC. Molecular Pathology and Pharmacological Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder-Like Phenotypes Using Rodent Models. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 12:422. [PMID: 30524240 PMCID: PMC6262306 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder with a high prevalence rate. The core symptoms of ASD patients are impaired social communication and repetitive behavior. Genetic and environmental factors contribute to pathophysiology of ASD. Regarding environmental risk factors, it is known that valproic acid (VPA) exposure during pregnancy increases the chance of ASD among offspring. Over a decade of animal model studies have shown that maternal treatment with VPA in rodents recapitulates ASD-like pathophysiology at a molecular, cellular and behavioral level. Here, we review the prevailing theories of ASD pathogenesis, including excitatory/inhibitory imbalance, neurotransmitter dysfunction, dysfunction of mTOR and endocannabinoid signaling pathways, neuroinflammation and epigenetic alterations that have been associated with ASD. We also describe the evidence linking neuropathological changes to ASD-like behavioral abnormalities in maternal VPA-treated rodents. In addition to obtaining an understanding of the neuropathological mechanisms, the VPA-induced ASD-like animal models also serve as a good platform for testing pharmacological reagents that might be use treating ASD. We therefore have summarized the various pharmacological studies that have targeted the classical neurotransmitter systems, the endocannabinoids, the Wnt signal pathway and neuroinflammation. These approaches have been shown to often be able to ameliorate the ASD-like phenotypes induced by maternal VPA treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao-Ying Kuo
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Chin Liu
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Brain Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
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