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Chrobak AA, Pańczyszyn-Trzewik P, Król P, Pawelec-Bąk M, Dudek D, Siwek M. New Light on Prions: Putative Role of PrP c in Pathophysiology of Mood Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2967. [PMID: 38474214 PMCID: PMC10932175 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052967] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Mood disorders are highly prevalent and heterogenous mental illnesses with devastating rates of mortality and treatment resistance. The molecular basis of those conditions involves complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors. Currently, there are no objective procedures for diagnosis, prognosis and personalization of patients' treatment. There is an urgent need to search for novel molecular targets for biomarkers in mood disorders. Cellular prion protein (PrPc) is infamous for its potential to convert its insoluble form, leading to neurodegeneration in Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease. Meanwhile, in its physiological state, PrPc presents neuroprotective features and regulates neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity. The aim of this study is to integrate the available knowledge about molecular mechanisms underlying the impact of PrPc on the pathophysiology of mood disorders. Our review indicates an important role of this protein in regulation of cognitive functions, emotions, sleep and biological rhythms, and its deficiency results in depressive-like behavior and cognitive impairment. PrPc plays a neuroprotective role against excitotoxicity, oxidative stress and inflammation, the main pathophysiological events in the course of mood disorders. Research indicates that PrPc may be a promising biomarker of cognitive decline. There is an urgent need of human studies to elucidate its potential utility in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Andrzej Chrobak
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 21A, 31-501 Kraków, Poland; (A.A.C.); (P.K.); (D.D.)
| | - Patrycja Pańczyszyn-Trzewik
- Department of Human Physiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Medical College of Rzeszow University, Kopisto 2a, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland;
| | - Patrycja Król
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 21A, 31-501 Kraków, Poland; (A.A.C.); (P.K.); (D.D.)
| | - Magdalena Pawelec-Bąk
- Department of Affective Disorders, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 21A, 31-501 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Dominika Dudek
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 21A, 31-501 Kraków, Poland; (A.A.C.); (P.K.); (D.D.)
| | - Marcin Siwek
- Department of Affective Disorders, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 21A, 31-501 Kraków, Poland;
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2
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Cellular prion protein offers neuroprotection in astrocytes submitted to amyloid β oligomer toxicity. Mol Cell Biochem 2022:10.1007/s11010-022-04631-w. [PMID: 36576715 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04631-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrPC), in its native conformation, performs numerous cellular and cognitive functions in brain tissue. However, despite the cellular prion research in recent years, there are still questions about its participation in oxidative and neurodegenerative processes. This study aims to elucidate the involvement of PrPC in the neuroprotection cascade in the presence of oxidative stressors. For that, astrocytes from wild-type mice and knockout to PrPC were subjected to the induction of oxidative stress with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and with the toxic oligomer of the amyloid β protein (AβO). We observed that the presence of PrPC showed resistance in the cell viability of astrocytes. It was also possible to monitor changes in basic levels of metals and associate them with an induced damage condition, indicating the precise role of PrPC in metal homeostasis, where the absence of PrPC leads to metallic unbalance, culminating in cellular vulnerability to oxidative stress. Increased caspase 3, p-Tau, p53, and Bcl2 may establish a relationship between a PrPC and an induced damage condition. Complementarily, it has been shown that PrPC prevents the internalization of AβO and promotes its degradation under oxidative stress induction, thus preventing protein aggregation in astrocytes. It was also observed that the presence of PrPC can be related to translocating SOD1 to cell nuclei under oxidative stress, probably controlling DNA damage. The results of this study suggest that PrPC acts against oxidative stress activating the cellular response and defense by displaying neuroprotection to neurons and ensuring the functionality of astrocytes.
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Marques CMS, Pedron T, Batista BL, Cerchiaro G. Cellular prion protein activates Caspase 3 for apoptotic defense mechanism in astrocytes. Mol Cell Biochem 2021; 476:2149-2158. [PMID: 33547547 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-021-04078-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is anchored in the plasma membrane of cells, and it is highly present in cells of brain tissue, exerting numerous cellular and cognitive functions. The present study proves the importance of PrPC in the cellular defense mechanism and metal homeostasis in astrocytes cells. Through experimental studies using cell lines of immortalized mice astrocytes (wild type and knockout for PrPC), we showed that PrPc is involved in the apoptosis cell death process by the activation of Caspase 3, downregulation of p53, and cell cycle maintenance. Metal homeostasis was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry technique, indicating the crucial role of PrPC to lower intracellular calcium. The lowered calcium concentration and the Caspase 3 downregulation in the PrPC-null astrocytes resulted in a faster growth rate in cells, comparing with PrPC wild-type one. The presence of PrPC shows to be essential to cell death and healthy growth. In conclusion, our results show for the first time that astrocyte knockout cells for the cellular prion protein could modulate apoptosis-dependent cell death pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M S Marques
- Center for Natural Sciences and Humanities, Federal University of ABC (UFABC), Avenida dos Estados, 5001, Bl.B, Santo André, SP, 09210-580, Brazil
| | - Tatiana Pedron
- Center for Natural Sciences and Humanities, Federal University of ABC (UFABC), Avenida dos Estados, 5001, Bl.B, Santo André, SP, 09210-580, Brazil
| | - Bruno L Batista
- Center for Natural Sciences and Humanities, Federal University of ABC (UFABC), Avenida dos Estados, 5001, Bl.B, Santo André, SP, 09210-580, Brazil
| | - Giselle Cerchiaro
- Center for Natural Sciences and Humanities, Federal University of ABC (UFABC), Avenida dos Estados, 5001, Bl.B, Santo André, SP, 09210-580, Brazil.
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Tau Protein as a New Regulator of Cellular Prion Protein Transcription. Mol Neurobiol 2020; 57:4170-4186. [PMID: 32683652 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-02025-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cellular prion protein (PrPC) is largely responsible for transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) when it becomes the abnormally processed and protease resistant form PrPSC. Physiological functions of PrPC include protective roles against oxidative stress and excitotoxicity. Relevantly, PrPC downregulates tau levels, whose accumulation and modification are a hallmark in the advance of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In addition to the accumulation of misfolded proteins, in the initial stages of AD-affected brains display both increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) markers and levels of PrPC. However, the factors responsible for the upregulation of PrPC are unknown. Thus, the aim of this study was to uncover the different molecular actors promoting PrPC overexpression. In order to mimic early stages of AD, we used β-amyloid-derived diffusible ligands (ADDLs) and tau cellular treatments, as well as ROS generation, to elucidate their particular roles in human PRNP promoter activity. In addition, we used specific chemical inhibitors and site-specific mutations of the PRNP promoter sequence to analyze the contribution of the main transcription factors involved in PRNP transcription under the analyzed conditions. Our results revealed that tau is a new modulator of PrPC expression independently of ADDL treatment and ROS levels. Lastly, we discovered that the JNK/c-jun-AP-1 pathway is involved in increased PRNP transcription activity by tau but not in the promoter response to ROS.
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Gavín R, Lidón L, Ferrer I, del Río JA. The Quest for Cellular Prion Protein Functions in the Aged and Neurodegenerating Brain. Cells 2020; 9:cells9030591. [PMID: 32131451 PMCID: PMC7140396 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular (also termed ‘natural’) prion protein has been extensively studied for many years for its pathogenic role in prionopathies after misfolding. However, neuroprotective properties of the protein have been demonstrated under various scenarios. In this line, the involvement of the cellular prion protein in neurodegenerative diseases other than prionopathies continues to be widely debated by the scientific community. In fact, studies on knock-out mice show a vast range of physiological functions for the protein that can be supported by its ability as a cell surface scaffold protein. In this review, we first summarize the most commonly described roles of cellular prion protein in neuroprotection, including antioxidant and antiapoptotic activities and modulation of glutamate receptors. Second, in light of recently described interaction between cellular prion protein and some amyloid misfolded proteins, we will also discuss the molecular mechanisms potentially involved in protection against neurodegeneration in pathologies such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalina Gavín
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Science Park of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (L.L.); (J.A.d.R.)
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Center for Networked Biomedical Research on Neurodegenerative Diseases (Ciberned), 28031 Barcelona, Spain;
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-93-4031185
| | - Laia Lidón
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Science Park of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (L.L.); (J.A.d.R.)
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Center for Networked Biomedical Research on Neurodegenerative Diseases (Ciberned), 28031 Barcelona, Spain;
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isidre Ferrer
- Center for Networked Biomedical Research on Neurodegenerative Diseases (Ciberned), 28031 Barcelona, Spain;
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Barcelona, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
- Senior Consultant, Bellvitge University Hospital, Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Antonio del Río
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Science Park of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (L.L.); (J.A.d.R.)
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Center for Networked Biomedical Research on Neurodegenerative Diseases (Ciberned), 28031 Barcelona, Spain;
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
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Ke PC, Sani MA, Ding F, Kakinen A, Javed I, Separovic F, Davis TP, Mezzenga R. Implications of peptide assemblies in amyloid diseases. Chem Soc Rev 2017; 46:6492-6531. [PMID: 28702523 PMCID: PMC5902192 DOI: 10.1039/c7cs00372b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 239] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders and type 2 diabetes are global epidemics compromising the quality of life of millions worldwide, with profound social and economic implications. Despite the significant differences in pathology - much of which are poorly understood - these diseases are commonly characterized by the presence of cross-β amyloid fibrils as well as the loss of neuronal or pancreatic β-cells. In this review, we document research progress on the molecular and mesoscopic self-assembly of amyloid-beta, alpha synuclein, human islet amyloid polypeptide and prions, the peptides and proteins associated with Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, type 2 diabetes and prion diseases. In addition, we discuss the toxicities of these amyloid proteins based on their self-assembly as well as their interactions with membranes, metal ions, small molecules and engineered nanoparticles. Through this presentation we show the remarkable similarities and differences in the structural transitions of the amyloid proteins through primary and secondary nucleation, the common evolution from disordered monomers to alpha-helices and then to β-sheets when the proteins encounter the cell membrane, and, the consensus (with a few exceptions) that off-pathway oligomers, rather than amyloid fibrils, are the toxic species regardless of the pathogenic protein sequence or physicochemical properties. In addition, we highlight the crucial role of molecular self-assembly in eliciting the biological and pathological consequences of the amyloid proteins within the context of their cellular environments and their spreading between cells and organs. Exploiting such structure-function-toxicity relationship may prove pivotal for the detection and mitigation of amyloid diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pu Chun Ke
- ARC Center of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Marc-Antonie Sani
- School of Chemistry, Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, 30 Flemington Rd, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Feng Ding
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, United States
| | - Aleksandr Kakinen
- ARC Center of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Ibrahim Javed
- ARC Center of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Frances Separovic
- School of Chemistry, Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, 30 Flemington Rd, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Thomas P. Davis
- ARC Center of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill, Coventry, CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Raffaele Mezzenga
- ETH Zurich, Department of Health Science & Technology, Schmelzbergstrasse 9, LFO, E23, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
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7
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Pacheco NL, Heaven MR, Holt LM, Crossman DK, Boggio KJ, Shaffer SA, Flint DL, Olsen ML. RNA sequencing and proteomics approaches reveal novel deficits in the cortex of Mecp2-deficient mice, a model for Rett syndrome. Mol Autism 2017; 8:56. [PMID: 29090078 PMCID: PMC5655833 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-017-0174-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rett syndrome (RTT) is an X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the transcriptional regulator MeCP2. Much of our understanding of MeCP2 function is derived from transcriptomic studies with the general assumption that alterations in the transcriptome correlate with proteomic changes. Advances in mass spectrometry-based proteomics have facilitated recent interest in the examination of global protein expression to better understand the biology between transcriptional and translational regulation. METHODS We therefore performed the first comprehensive transcriptome-proteome comparison in a RTT mouse model to elucidate RTT pathophysiology, identify potential therapeutic targets, and further our understanding of MeCP2 function. The whole cortex of wild-type and symptomatic RTT male littermates (n = 4 per genotype) were analyzed using RNA-sequencing and data-independent acquisition liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Ingenuity® Pathway Analysis was used to identify significantly affected pathways in the transcriptomic and proteomic data sets. RESULTS Our results indicate these two "omics" data sets supplement one another. In addition to confirming previous works regarding mRNA expression in Mecp2-deficient animals, the current study identified hundreds of novel protein targets. Several selected protein targets were validated by Western blot analysis. These data indicate RNA metabolism, proteostasis, monoamine metabolism, and cholesterol synthesis are disrupted in the RTT proteome. Hits common to both data sets indicate disrupted cellular metabolism, calcium signaling, protein stability, DNA binding, and cytoskeletal cell structure. Finally, in addition to confirming disrupted pathways and identifying novel hits in neuronal structure and synaptic transmission, our data indicate aberrant myelination, inflammation, and vascular disruption. Intriguingly, there is no evidence of reactive gliosis, but instead, gene, protein, and pathway analysis suggest astrocytic maturation and morphological deficits. CONCLUSIONS This comparative omics analysis supports previous works indicating widespread CNS dysfunction and may serve as a valuable resource for those interested in cellular dysfunction in RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha L. Pacheco
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1918 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294 USA
| | - Michael R. Heaven
- Vulcan Analytical, LLC, 1500 1st Ave. North, Birmingham, AL 35203 USA
| | - Leanne M. Holt
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1918 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294 USA
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Life Sciences Building Room 213, 970 Washington St. SW, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA
| | - David K. Crossman
- UAB Heflin Center for Genomic Science, Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Kaul 424A, 1720 2nd Ave. South, Birmingham, AL 35294 USA
| | - Kristin J. Boggio
- Proteomics and Mass Spectrometry Facility, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 222 Maple Ave., Fuller Building, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 USA
| | - Scott A. Shaffer
- Proteomics and Mass Spectrometry Facility, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 222 Maple Ave., Fuller Building, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 USA
| | - Daniel L. Flint
- Luxumbra Strategic Research, LLC, 1331 South Eads St, Arlington, VA 22202 USA
| | - Michelle L. Olsen
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1918 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294 USA
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Life Sciences Building Room 213, 970 Washington St. SW, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA
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8
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Meguid NA, Ghozlan SAS, Mohamed MF, Ibrahim MK, Dawood RM, Din NGBE, Abdelhafez TH, Hemimi M, Awady MKE. Expression of Reactive Oxygen Species-Related Transcripts in Egyptian Children With Autism. Biomark Insights 2017; 12:1177271917691035. [PMID: 28469396 PMCID: PMC5391985 DOI: 10.1177/1177271917691035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular basis of the pathophysiological role of oxidative stress in autism is understudied. Herein, we used polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array to analyze transcriptional pattern of 84 oxidative stress genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cell pools isolated from 32 autistic patients (16 mild/moderate and 16 severe) and 16 healthy subjects (each sample is a pool from 4 autistic patients or 4 controls). The PCR array data were further validated by quantitative real-time PCR in 80 autistic children (55 mild/moderate and 25 severe) and 60 healthy subjects. Our data revealed downregulation in GCLM, SOD2, NCF2, PRNP, and PTGS2 transcripts (1.5, 3.8, 1.2, 1.7, and 2.2, respectively;P < .05 for all) in autistic group compared with controls. In addition, TXN and FTH1 exhibited 1.4- and 1.7-fold downregulation, respectively, in severe autistic patients when compared with mild/moderate group (P = .005 and .0008, respectively). This study helps in a better understanding of the underlying biology and related genetic factors of autism, and most importantly, it presents suggested candidate biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis purposes as well as targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagwa A Meguid
- Department of Research on Children with Special Needs, Medical Research Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Said A S Ghozlan
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Magda F Mohamed
- Department of Chemistry (Biochemistry Branch), Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Marwa K Ibrahim
- Microbial Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Reham M Dawood
- Microbial Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Noha G Bader El Din
- Microbial Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Tawfeek H Abdelhafez
- Microbial Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Maha Hemimi
- Department of Research on Children with Special Needs, Medical Research Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mostafa K El Awady
- Microbial Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
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9
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Abstract
Since its discovery the cellular prion protein (encoded by the Prnp gene) has been associated with a large number of functions. The proposed functions rank from basic cellular processes such as cell cycle and survival to neural functions such as behavior and neuroprotection, following a pattern similar to that of Moore's law for electronics. In addition, particular interest is increasing in the participation of Prnp in neurodegeneration. However, in recent years a redefinition of these functions has begun, since examples of previously attributed functions were increasingly re-associated with other proteins. Most of these functions are linked to so-called "Prnp-flanking genes" that are close to the genomic locus of Prnp and which are present in the genome of some Prnp mouse models. In addition, their role in neuroprotection against convulsive insults has been confirmed in recent studies. Lastly, in recent years a large number of models indicating the participation of different domains of the protein in apoptosis have been uncovered. However, after more than 10 years of molecular dissection our view is that the simplest mechanistic model in PrP(C)-mediated cell death should be considered, as Ockham's razor theory suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- José A del Río
- a Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) , Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona , Spain.,b Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Inmunology , Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,c Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Rosalina Gavín
- a Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) , Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona , Spain.,b Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Inmunology , Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,c Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED) , Barcelona , Spain
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10
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Mehrabian M, Hildebrandt H, Schmitt-Ulms G. NCAM1 Polysialylation: The Prion Protein's Elusive Reason for Being? ASN Neuro 2016; 8:8/6/1759091416679074. [PMID: 27879349 PMCID: PMC5122176 DOI: 10.1177/1759091416679074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Revised: 09/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Much confusion surrounds the physiological function of the cellular prion protein (PrPC). It is, however, anticipated that knowledge of its function will shed light on its contribution to neurodegenerative diseases and suggest ways to interfere with the cellular toxicity central to them. Consequently, efforts to elucidate its function have been all but exhaustive. Building on earlier work that uncovered the evolutionary descent of the prion founder gene from an ancestral ZIP zinc transporter, we recently investigated a possible role of PrPC in a morphogenetic program referred to as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). By capitalizing on PrPC knockout cell clones in a mammalian cell model of EMT and using a comparative proteomics discovery strategy, neural cell adhesion molecule-1 emerged as a protein whose upregulation during EMT was perturbed in PrPC knockout cells. Follow-up work led us to observe that PrPC regulates the polysialylation of the neural cell adhesion molecule NCAM1 in cells undergoing morphogenetic reprogramming. In addition to governing cellular migration, polysialylation modulates several other cellular plasticity programs PrPC has been phenotypically linked to. These include neurogenesis in the subventricular zone, controlled mossy fiber sprouting and trimming in the hippocampal formation, hematopoietic stem cell renewal, myelin repair and maintenance, integrity of the circadian rhythm, and glutamatergic signaling. This review revisits this body of literature and attempts to present it in light of this novel contextual framework. When approached in this manner, a coherent model of PrPC acting as a regulator of polysialylation during specific cell and tissue morphogenesis events comes into focus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohadeseh Mehrabian
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Herbert Hildebrandt
- Institute for Cellular Chemistry, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Gerold Schmitt-Ulms
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada .,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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11
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Abstract
The difficulty to understand, diagnose, and treat neurological disorders stems from the great complexity of the central nervous system on different levels of physiological granularity. The individual components, their interactions, and dynamics involved in brain development and function can be represented as molecular, cellular, or functional networks, where diseases are perturbations of networks. These networks can become a useful research tool in investigating neurological disorders if they are properly tailored to reflect corresponding mechanisms. Here, we review approaches to construct networks specific for neurological disorders describing disease-related pathology on different scales: the molecular, cellular, and brain level. We also briefly discuss cross-scale network analysis as a necessary integrator of these scales.
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12
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Carulla P, Llorens F, Matamoros-Angles A, Aguilar-Calvo P, Espinosa JC, Gavín R, Ferrer I, Legname G, Torres JM, del Río JA. Involvement of PrP(C) in kainate-induced excitotoxicity in several mouse strains. Sci Rep 2015; 5:11971. [PMID: 26155834 PMCID: PMC4648388 DOI: 10.1038/srep11971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrP(C)) has been associated with a plethora of cellular functions ranging from cell cycle to neuroprotection. Mice lacking PrP(C) show an increased susceptibility to epileptic seizures; the protein, then, is neuroprotective. However, lack of experimental reproducibility has led to considering the possibility that other factors besides PrP(C) deletion, such as the genetic background of mice or the presence of so-called "Prnp flanking genes", might contribute to the reported susceptibility. Here, we performed a comparative analysis of seizure-susceptibility using characterized Prnp(+/+) and Prnp(0/0) mice of B6129, B6.129, 129/Ola or FVB/N genetic backgrounds. Our study indicates that PrP(C) plays a role in neuroprotection in KA-treated cells and mice. For this function, PrP(C) should contain the aa32-93 region and needs to be linked to the membrane. In addition, some unidentified "Prnp-flanking genes" play a role parallel to PrP(C) in the KA-mediated responses in B6129 and B6.129 Prnp(0/0) mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Carulla
- 1] Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute of Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain [2] Department of Cell Biology, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain [3] Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Franc Llorens
- 1] Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute of Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain [2] Department of Cell Biology, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain [3] Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Barcelona, Spain [4] German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Robert-Koch Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Andreu Matamoros-Angles
- 1] Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute of Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain [2] Department of Cell Biology, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain [3] Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Juan Carlos Espinosa
- Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal (CISA-INIA), Valdeolmos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosalina Gavín
- 1] Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute of Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain [2] Department of Cell Biology, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain [3] Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isidre Ferrer
- 1] Institut de Neuropatologia, IDIBELL-Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain [2] Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Giuseppe Legname
- Laboratory of Prion Biology, Department of Neuroscience, Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati (SISSA), Trieste, Italy
| | - Juan Maria Torres
- Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal (CISA-INIA), Valdeolmos, Madrid, Spain
| | - José A del Río
- 1] Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute of Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain [2] Department of Cell Biology, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain [3] Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Barcelona, Spain
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Cichon AC, Brown DR. Nrf-2 regulation of prion protein expression is independent of oxidative stress. Mol Cell Neurosci 2014; 63:31-7. [PMID: 25242137 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2014.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2014] [Revised: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 09/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular expression of host prion protein (PrP) is essential to infection with prion disease. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate prion protein expression at both the transcriptional and translational levels is therefore an important goal. The cellular prion protein has been associated with resistance to oxidative, and its expression is also increased by oxidative stress. The transcription factor Nrf-2 is associated with cellular responses to oxidative stress and is known to induce upregulation of antioxidant defense mechanisms. We have identified an Nrf-2 binding site in the prion protein promoter (Prnp) and shown that Nrf-2 downregulated PrP expression. However, this effect is independent of oxidative stress as oxidative stress can up-regulate PrP expression regardless of the level of Nrf-2 expression. Furthermore, Nrf-2 has no impact on PrP expression when cells are infected with scrapie. These findings highlight that Nrf-2 can regulate PrP expression, but that this regulation becomes uncoupled during cellular stress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David R Brown
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, UK.
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14
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Anchorless 23-230 PrPC interactomics for elucidation of PrPC protective role. Mol Neurobiol 2014; 49:1385-99. [PMID: 24390569 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-013-8616-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2013] [Accepted: 12/09/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Accumulation of conformationally altered cellular proteins (i.e., prion protein) is the common feature of prions and other neurodegenerative diseases. Previous studies demonstrated that the lack of terminal sequence of cellular prion protein (PrPC), necessary for the addition of glycosylphosphatidylinositol lipid anchor, leads to a protease-resistant conformation that resembles scrapie-associated isoform of prion protein. Moreover, mice overexpressing the truncated form of PrPC showed late-onset, amyloid deposition, and the presence of a short protease-resistant PrP fragment in the brain similar to those found in Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker disease patients. Therefore, the physiopathological function of truncated_/anchorless 23-230 PrPC (Δ23-230 PrPC) has come into focus of attention. The present study aims at revealing the physiopathological function of the anchorless PrPC form by identifying its interacting proteins. The truncated_/anchorless Δ23-230 PrPC along with its interacting proteins was affinity purified using STrEP-Tactin chromatography, in-gel digested, and identified by quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry analysis in prion protein-deficient murine hippocampus (HpL3-4) neuronal cell line. Twenty-three proteins appeared to interact with anchorless Δ23-230 PrPC in HpL3-4 cells. Out of the 23 proteins, one novel protein, pyruvate kinase isozymes M1/M2 (PKM2), exhibited a potential interaction with the anchorless Δ23-230 form of PrPC. Both reverse co-immunoprecipitation and confocal laser-scanning microscopic analysis confirmed an interaction of PKM2 with the anchorless Δ23-230 form of PrPC. Furthermore, we provide the first evidence for co-localization of PKM2 and PrPC as well as PrPC-dependent PKM2 expression regulation. In addition, given the involvement of PrPC in the regulation of apoptosis, we exposed HpL3-4 cells to staurosporine (STS)-mediated apoptotic stress. In response to STS-mediated apoptotic stress, HpL3-4 cells transiently expressing 23-230-truncated PrPC were markedly less viable, were more prone to apoptosis and exhibited significantly higher PKM2 expressional regulation as compared with HpL3-4 cells transiently expressing full-length PrPC (1-253 PrPC). The enhanced STS-induced apoptosis was shown by increased caspase-3 cleavage. Together, our data suggest that the misbalance or over expression of anchorless Δ23-230 form of PrPC in association with the expressional regulation of interacting proteins could render cells more prone to cellular insults-stress response, formation of aggregates and may ultimately be linked to the cell death.
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15
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Llorens F, Ferrer I, del Río JA. Gene expression resulting from PrPC ablation and PrPC overexpression in murine and cellular models. Mol Neurobiol 2013; 49:413-23. [PMID: 23949728 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-013-8529-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2013] [Accepted: 08/05/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrP(C)) plays a key role in prion diseases when it converts to the pathogenic form scrapie prion protein. Increasing knowledge of its participation in prion infection contrasts with the elusive and controversial data regarding its physiological role probably related to its pleiotropy, cell-specific functions, and cellular-specific milieu. Multiple approaches have been made to the increasing understanding of the molecular mechanisms and cellular functions modulated by PrP(C) at the transcriptomic and proteomic levels. Gene expression analyses have been made in several mouse and cellular models with regulated expression of PrP(C) resulting in PrP(C) ablation or PrP(C) overexpression. These analyses support previous functional data and have yielded clues about new potential functions. However, experiments on animal models have shown moderate and varied results which are difficult to interpret. Moreover, studies in cell cultures correlate little with in vivo counterparts. Yet, both animal and cell models have provided some insights on how to proceed in the future by using more refined methods and selected functional experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franc Llorens
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Bellvitge-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain,
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16
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Llorens F, Carulla P, Villa A, Torres JM, Fortes P, Ferrer I, del Río JA. PrP(C) regulates epidermal growth factor receptor function and cell shape dynamics in Neuro2a cells. J Neurochem 2013; 127:124-38. [PMID: 23638794 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.12283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2012] [Revised: 04/26/2013] [Accepted: 04/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The prion protein (PrP) plays a key role in prion disease pathogenesis. Although the misfolded and pathologic variant of this protein (PrP(SC)) has been studied in depth, the physiological role of PrP(C) remains elusive and controversial. PrP(C) is a cell-surface glycoprotein involved in multiple cellular functions at the plasma membrane, where it interacts with a myriad of partners and regulates several intracellular signal transduction cascades. However, little is known about the gene expression changes modulated by PrP(C) in animals and in cellular models. In this article, we present PrP(C)-dependent gene expression signature in N2a cells and its implication in the most overrepresented functions: cell cycle, cell growth and proliferation, and maintenance of cell shape. PrP(C) over-expression enhances cell proliferation and cell cycle re-entrance after serum stimulation, while PrP(C) silencing slows down cell cycle progression. In addition, MAP kinase and protein kinase B (AKT) pathway activation are under the regulation of PrP(C) in asynchronous cells and following mitogenic stimulation. These effects are due in part to the modulation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) by PrP(C) in the plasma membrane, where the two proteins interact in a multimeric complex. We also describe how PrP(C) over-expression modulates filopodia formation by Rho GTPase regulation mainly in an AKT-Cdc42-N-WASP-dependent pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franc Llorens
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Science Park, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Cell Biology, University of Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain; Center for Networker Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Neuropathology, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
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17
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Striebel JF, Race B, Pathmajeyan M, Rangel A, Chesebro B. Lack of influence of prion protein gene expression on kainate-induced seizures in mice: studies using congenic, coisogenic and transgenic strains. Neuroscience 2013; 238:11-8. [PMID: 23415788 PMCID: PMC3676307 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2013.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Revised: 01/17/2013] [Accepted: 02/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Prion protein (PrP) is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchored cell surface protein expressed by many cells, including those of the mammalian nervous system. At present the physiologic functions of PrP remain unclear. Deletion of Prnp, the gene encoding PrP in mice, has been shown to alter normal synaptic and electrophysiologic activities, indicating a potential role in seizure susceptibility. However, published efforts to link PrP with seizures, using both in vivo and in vitro models, are conflicting and difficult to interpret due to use of various mouse backgrounds and seizure induction techniques. Here we investigated the role of PrP in kainic acid (KA)-induced seizure sensitivity, using three types of mice. In contrast to previous published results, Prnp-/- mice on the C57BL/10SnJ background had a significant decrease in KA-induced seizure susceptibility. In genetic complementation experiments using a PrP-expressing transgene, genes derived from strain 129/Ola, which flanked the Prnp-/- locus in C57BL/10SnJ mice, rather than Prnp itself, appeared to account for this effect. Furthermore, using coisogenic 129/Ola mice differing only at Prnp, this difference was not reproduced when comparing PrP-negative and PrP-positive mice. In contrast, substrains of PrP-expressing C57BL mice, showed large variations in KA-induced seizure sensitivity. The magnitude of these differences in susceptibility was larger than that associated with the presence of the Prnp gene, suggesting extensive influence of genes other than Prnp on seizure sensitivity in this system.
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Affiliation(s)
- James F. Striebel
- Laboratory of Persistent Viral Diseases, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Hamilton, Montana, USA
| | - Brent Race
- Laboratory of Persistent Viral Diseases, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Hamilton, Montana, USA
| | - Melissa Pathmajeyan
- Laboratory of Persistent Viral Diseases, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Hamilton, Montana, USA
| | - Alejandra Rangel
- Laboratory of Persistent Viral Diseases, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Hamilton, Montana, USA
| | - Bruce Chesebro
- Laboratory of Persistent Viral Diseases, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Hamilton, Montana, USA
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