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Leone R, Zuglian C, Brambilla R, Morella I. Understanding copy number variations through their genes: a molecular view on 16p11.2 deletion and duplication syndromes. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1407865. [PMID: 38948459 PMCID: PMC11211608 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1407865] [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: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) include a broad spectrum of pathological conditions that affect >4% of children worldwide, share common features and present a variegated genetic origin. They include clinically defined diseases, such as autism spectrum disorders (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), motor disorders such as Tics and Tourette's syndromes, but also much more heterogeneous conditions like intellectual disability (ID) and epilepsy. Schizophrenia (SCZ) has also recently been proposed to belong to NDDs. Relatively common causes of NDDs are copy number variations (CNVs), characterised by the gain or the loss of a portion of a chromosome. In this review, we focus on deletions and duplications at the 16p11.2 chromosomal region, associated with NDDs, ID, ASD but also epilepsy and SCZ. Some of the core phenotypes presented by human carriers could be recapitulated in animal and cellular models, which also highlighted prominent neurophysiological and signalling alterations underpinning 16p11.2 CNVs-associated phenotypes. In this review, we also provide an overview of the genes within the 16p11.2 locus, including those with partially known or unknown function as well as non-coding RNAs. A particularly interesting interplay was observed between MVP and MAPK3 in modulating some of the pathological phenotypes associated with the 16p11.2 deletion. Elucidating their role in intracellular signalling and their functional links will be a key step to devise novel therapeutic strategies for 16p11.2 CNVs-related syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Leone
- Università di Pavia, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cecilia Zuglian
- Università di Pavia, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, Pavia, Italy
| | - Riccardo Brambilla
- Università di Pavia, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, Pavia, Italy
- Cardiff University, School of Biosciences, Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Ilaria Morella
- Cardiff University, School of Biosciences, Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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2
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Suarez CF, Harb OA, Robledo A, Largoza G, Ahn JJ, Alley EK, Wu T, Veeraragavan S, McClugage ST, Iacobas I, Fish JE, Kan PT, Marrelli SP, Wythe JD. MEK signaling represents a viable therapeutic vulnerability of KRAS-driven somatic brain arteriovenous malformations. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.15.594335. [PMID: 38766159 PMCID: PMC11101126 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.15.594335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) are direct connections between arteries and veins that remodel into a complex nidus susceptible to rupture and hemorrhage. Most sporadic bAVMs feature somatic activating mutations within KRAS, and endothelial-specific expression of the constitutively active variant KRASG12D models sporadic bAVM in mice. By leveraging 3D-based micro-CT imaging, we demonstrate that KRASG12D-driven bAVMs arise in stereotypical anatomical locations within the murine brain, which coincide with high endogenous Kras expression. We extend these analyses to show that a distinct variant, KRASG12C, also generates bAVMs in predictable locations. Analysis of 15,000 human patients revealed that, similar to murine models, bAVMs preferentially occur in distinct regions of the adult brain. Furthermore, bAVM location correlates with hemorrhagic frequency. Quantification of 3D imaging revealed that G12D and G12C alter vessel density, tortuosity, and diameter within the mouse brain. Notably, aged G12D mice feature increased lethality, as well as impaired cognition and motor function. Critically, we show that pharmacological blockade of the downstream kinase, MEK, after lesion formation ameliorates KRASG12D-driven changes in the murine cerebrovasculature and may also impede bAVM progression in human pediatric patients. Collectively, these data show that distinct KRAS variants drive bAVMs in similar patterns and suggest MEK inhibition represents a non-surgical alternative therapy for sporadic bAVM.
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3
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Indrigo M, Morella I, Orellana D, d'Isa R, Papale A, Parra R, Gurgone A, Lecca D, Cavaccini A, Tigaret CM, Cagnotto A, Jones K, Brooks S, Ratto GM, Allen ND, Lelos MJ, Middei S, Giustetto M, Carta AR, Tonini R, Salmona M, Hall J, Thomas K, Brambilla R, Fasano S. Nuclear ERK1/2 signaling potentiation enhances neuroprotection and cognition via Importinα1/KPNA2. EMBO Mol Med 2023; 15:e15984. [PMID: 37792911 PMCID: PMC10630888 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202215984] [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: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell signaling is central to neuronal activity and its dysregulation may lead to neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. Here, we show that selective genetic potentiation of neuronal ERK signaling prevents cell death in vitro and in vivo in the mouse brain, while attenuation of ERK signaling does the opposite. This neuroprotective effect mediated by an enhanced nuclear ERK activity can also be induced by the novel cell penetrating peptide RB5. In vitro administration of RB5 disrupts the preferential interaction of ERK1 MAP kinase with importinα1/KPNA2 over ERK2, facilitates ERK1/2 nuclear translocation, and enhances global ERK activity. Importantly, RB5 treatment in vivo promotes neuroprotection in mouse models of Huntington's (HD), Alzheimer's (AD), and Parkinson's (PD) disease, and enhances ERK signaling in a human cellular model of HD. Additionally, RB5-mediated potentiation of ERK nuclear signaling facilitates synaptic plasticity, enhances cognition in healthy rodents, and rescues cognitive impairments in AD and HD models. The reported molecular mechanism shared across multiple neurodegenerative disorders reveals a potential new therapeutic target approach based on the modulation of KPNA2-ERK1/2 interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Indrigo
- Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific InstituteMilanoItaly
| | - Ilaria Morella
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, School of BiosciencesCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | - Daniel Orellana
- Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific InstituteMilanoItaly
| | - Raffaele d'Isa
- Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific InstituteMilanoItaly
| | - Alessandro Papale
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, School of BiosciencesCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | - Riccardo Parra
- NEST, Istituto Nanoscienze CNR, and Scuola Normale SuperiorePisaItaly
| | | | - Daniela Lecca
- Department of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of CagliariCagliariItaly
| | - Anna Cavaccini
- Neuromodulation of Cortical and Subcortical Circuits LaboratoryFondazione Istituto Italiano di TecnologiaGenovaItaly
| | - Cezar M Tigaret
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of MedicineCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | - Alfredo Cagnotto
- Dipartimento di Biochimica e Farmacologia MolecolareIstituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri‐IRCCSMilanoItaly
| | | | - Simon Brooks
- School of BiosciencesCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | | | | | | | - Silvia Middei
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology CNRRomaItaly
| | - Maurizio Giustetto
- Department of NeuroscienceUniversity of TorinoTorinoItaly
- National Institute of NeuroscienceTorinoItaly
| | - Anna R Carta
- Department of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of CagliariCagliariItaly
| | - Raffaella Tonini
- Neuromodulation of Cortical and Subcortical Circuits LaboratoryFondazione Istituto Italiano di TecnologiaGenovaItaly
| | - Mario Salmona
- Dipartimento di Biochimica e Farmacologia MolecolareIstituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri‐IRCCSMilanoItaly
| | - Jeremy Hall
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of MedicineCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | - Kerrie Thomas
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, School of MedicineCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
| | - Riccardo Brambilla
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, School of BiosciencesCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “Lazzaro Spallanzani”Università degli Studi di PaviaPaviaItaly
| | - Stefania Fasano
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, School of BiosciencesCardiff UniversityCardiffUK
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Wu Y, Walker JR, Westberg M, Ning L, Monje M, Kirkland TA, Lin MZ, Su Y. Kinase-Modulated Bioluminescent Indicators Enable Noninvasive Imaging of Drug Activity in the Brain. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2023; 9:719-732. [PMID: 37122464 PMCID: PMC10141594 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.3c00074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant kinase activity contributes to the pathogenesis of brain cancers, neurodegeneration, and neuropsychiatric diseases, but identifying kinase inhibitors that function in the brain is challenging. Drug levels in blood do not predict efficacy in the brain because the blood-brain barrier prevents entry of most compounds. Rather, assessing kinase inhibition in the brain requires tissue dissection and biochemical analysis, a time-consuming and resource-intensive process. Here, we report kinase-modulated bioluminescent indicators (KiMBIs) for noninvasive longitudinal imaging of drug activity in the brain based on a recently optimized luciferase-luciferin system. We develop an ERK KiMBI to report inhibitors of the Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK pathway, for which no bioluminescent indicators previously existed. ERK KiMBI discriminates between brain-penetrant and nonpenetrant MEK inhibitors, reveals blood-tumor barrier leakiness in xenograft models, and reports MEK inhibitor pharmacodynamics in native brain tissues and intracranial xenografts. Finally, we use ERK KiMBI to screen ERK inhibitors for brain efficacy, identifying temuterkib as a promising brain-active ERK inhibitor, a result not predicted from chemical characteristics alone. Thus, KiMBIs enable the rapid identification and pharmacodynamic characterization of kinase inhibitors suitable for treating brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wu
- Department
of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Department
of Neurobiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Joel R. Walker
- Promega
Biosciences LLC, San Luis Obispo, California 93401, United States
| | - Michael Westberg
- Department
of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Department
of Neurobiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Department
of Chemistry, Aarhus University, Aarhus 8000, Denmark
| | - Lin Ning
- Department
of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Department
of Neurobiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Michelle Monje
- Department
of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Howard Hughes
Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Thomas A. Kirkland
- Promega
Biosciences LLC, San Luis Obispo, California 93401, United States
| | - Michael Z. Lin
- Department
of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Department
of Neurobiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Department
of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Department
of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford
University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Yichi Su
- Department
of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Department
of Neurobiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
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5
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Murari K, Abushaibah A, Rho JM, Turner RW, Cheng N. A clinically relevant selective ERK-pathway inhibitor reverses core deficits in a mouse model of autism. EBioMedicine 2023; 91:104565. [PMID: 37088035 PMCID: PMC10149189 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104565] [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: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK/MAPK) pathway in the brain is hypothesized to be a critical convergent node in the development of autism spectrum disorder. We reasoned that selectively targeting this pathway could reverse core autism-like phenotype in animal models. METHODS Here we tested a clinically relevant, selective inhibitor of ERK pathway, PD325901 (Mirdametinib), in a mouse model of idiopathic autism, the BTBR mice. FINDINGS We report that treating juvenile mice with PD325901 reduced ERK pathway activation, dose and duration-dependently reduced core disease-modeling deficits in sociability, vocalization and repetitive behavior, and reversed abnormal EEG signals. Further analysis revealed that subchronic treatment did not affect weight gain, locomotion, or neuronal density in the brain. Parallel treatment in the C57BL/6J mice did not alter their phenotype. INTERPRETATION Our data indicate that selectively inhibiting ERK pathway using PD325901 is beneficial in the BTBR model, thus further support the notion that ERK pathway is critically involved in the pathophysiology of autism. These results suggest that a similar approach could be applied to animal models of syndromic autism with dysregulated ERK signaling, to further test selectively targeting ERK pathway as a new approach for treating autism. FUNDING This has beenwork was supported by Alberta Children's Hospital Research Foundation (JMR & NC), University of Calgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (NC), Kids Brain Health Network (NC), and Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NC).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kartikeya Murari
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Canada; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Schulich School of Engineering, University of Calgary, Canada; Department of Electrical and Software Engineering, Schulich School of Engineering, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Abdulrahman Abushaibah
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Canada; Bachelor of Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Jong M Rho
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Canada; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Ray W Turner
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Canada; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Canada; Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Ning Cheng
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Canada; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Canada; Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Canada.
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6
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Yang L, Lu Y, Zhang Z, Chen Y, Chen N, Chen F, Qi Y, Han C, Xu Y, Chen M, Shen M, Wang S, Zeng H, Su Y, Hu M, Wang J. Oxymatrine boosts hematopoietic regeneration by modulating MAPK/ERK phosphorylation after irradiation-induced hematopoietic injury. Exp Cell Res 2023; 427:113603. [PMID: 37075826 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113603] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Hematopoietic toxicity due to ionizing radiation (IR) is a leading cause of death in nuclear incidents, occupational hazards, and cancer therapy. Oxymatrine (OM), an extract originating from the root of Sophora flavescens (Kushen), possesses extensive pharmacological properties. In this study, we demonstrate that OM treatment accelerates hematological recovery and increases the survival rate of mice subjected to irradiation. This outcome is accompanied by an increase in functional hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), resulting in an enhanced hematopoietic reconstitution ability. Mechanistically, we observed significant activation of the MAPK signaling pathway, accelerated cellular proliferation, and decreased cell apoptosis. Notably, we identified marked increases in the cell cycle transcriptional regulator Cyclin D1 (Ccnd1) and the anti-apoptotic protein BCL2 in HSC after OM treatment. Further investigation revealed that the expression of Ccnd1 transcript and BCL2 levels were reversed upon specific inhibition of ERK1/2 phosphorylation, effectively negating the rescuing effect of OM. Moreover, we determined that targeted inhibition of ERK1/2 activation significantly counteracted the regenerative effect of OM on human HSCs. Taken together, our results suggest a crucial role for OM in hematopoietic reconstitution following IR via MAPK signaling pathway-mediated mechanisms, providing theoretical support for innovative therapeutic applications of OM in addressing IR-induced injuries in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijing Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Yukai Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Zihao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Yin Chen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, 958 Hospital of PLA Army, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Naicheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Fang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Yan Qi
- Department of Hematology, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Changhao Han
- Department of Hematology, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Yang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Mo Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Mingqiang Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Song Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Hao Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Yongping Su
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Mengjia Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China; Chinese PLA Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No. 20 Dongda Street, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100071, China.
| | - Junping Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
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7
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Wang L, Wang B, Wu C, Wang J, Sun M. Autism Spectrum Disorder: Neurodevelopmental Risk Factors, Biological Mechanism, and Precision Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24031819. [PMID: 36768153 PMCID: PMC9915249 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous, behaviorally defined neurodevelopmental disorder. Over the past two decades, the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders has progressively increased, however, no clear diagnostic markers and specifically targeted medications for autism have emerged. As a result, neurobehavioral abnormalities, neurobiological alterations in ASD, and the development of novel ASD pharmacological therapy necessitate multidisciplinary collaboration. In this review, we discuss the development of multiple animal models of ASD to contribute to the disease mechanisms of ASD, as well as new studies from multiple disciplines to assess the behavioral pathology of ASD. In addition, we summarize and highlight the mechanistic advances regarding gene transcription, RNA and non-coding RNA translation, abnormal synaptic signaling pathways, epigenetic post-translational modifications, brain-gut axis, immune inflammation and neural loop abnormalities in autism to provide a theoretical basis for the next step of precision therapy. Furthermore, we review existing autism therapy tactics and limits and present challenges and opportunities for translating multidisciplinary knowledge of ASD into clinical practice.
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8
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Li Q, Li Z, Luo T, Shi H. Targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and RAF/MEK/ERK pathways for cancer therapy. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2022; 3:47. [PMID: 36539659 PMCID: PMC9768098 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-022-00110-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The PI3K/AKT/mTOR and RAF/MEK/ERK pathways are commonly activated by mutations and chromosomal translocation in vital targets. The PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway is dysregulated in nearly all kinds of neoplasms, with the component in this pathway alternations. RAF/MEK/ERK signaling cascades are used to conduct signaling from the cell surface to the nucleus to mediate gene expression, cell cycle processes and apoptosis. RAS, B-Raf, PI3K, and PTEN are frequent upstream alternative sites. These mutations resulted in activated cell growth and downregulated cell apoptosis. The two pathways interact with each other to participate in tumorigenesis. PTEN alterations suppress RAF/MEK/ERK pathway activity via AKT phosphorylation and RAS inhibition. Several inhibitors targeting major components of these two pathways have been supported by the FDA. Dozens of agents in these two pathways have attracted great attention and have been assessed in clinical trials. The combination of small molecular inhibitors with traditional regimens has also been explored. Furthermore, dual inhibitors provide new insight into antitumor activity. This review will further comprehensively describe the genetic alterations in normal patients and tumor patients and discuss the role of targeted inhibitors in malignant neoplasm therapy. We hope this review will promote a comprehensive understanding of the role of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathways in facilitating tumors and will help direct drug selection for tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingfang Li
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhihui Li
- Department of Oncology, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Ting Luo
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Breast, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041 Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Huashan Shi
- grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041 Chengdu, P. R. China
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9
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Amaral IM, Scheffauer L, Hofer A, El Rawas R. Protein kinases in natural versus drug reward. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2022; 221:173472. [PMID: 36244528 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2022.173472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Natural and drug rewards act on the same neural pathway, the mesolimbic dopaminergic system. In brain regions such as the nucleus accumbens and ventral tegmental area, drugs of abuse-induced stimulation of signaling pathways can lead to synaptic reshaping within this system. This is believed to be underlying the maladaptive alterations in behaviors associated with addiction. In this review, we discuss animal studies disclosing the implication of several protein kinases, namely protein kinase A (PKA), extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), p38 MAPK, and calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII), in reward-related brain regions in drug and natural reward. Furthermore, we refer to studies that helped pave the way toward a better understanding of the neurobiology underlying non-drug and drug reward through genetic deletion or brain region-specific pharmacological inhibition of these kinases. Whereas the role of kinases in drug reward has been extensively studied, their implication in natural reward, such as positive social interaction, is less investigated. Discovering molecular candidates, recruited specifically by drug versus natural rewards, can promote the identification of novel targets for the pharmacological treatment of addiction with less off-target effects and being effective when used combined with behavioral-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês M Amaral
- Division of Psychiatry I, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Laura Scheffauer
- Division of Psychiatry I, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Alex Hofer
- Division of Psychiatry I, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Rana El Rawas
- Division of Psychiatry I, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University Innsbruck, Austria.
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10
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Ojea Ramos S, Feld M, Fustiñana MS. Contributions of extracellular-signal regulated kinase 1/2 activity to the memory trace. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:988790. [PMID: 36277495 PMCID: PMC9580372 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.988790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability to learn from experience and consequently adapt our behavior is one of the most fundamental capacities enabled by complex and plastic nervous systems. Next to cellular and systems-level changes, learning and memory formation crucially depends on molecular signaling mechanisms. In particular, the extracellular-signal regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK), historically studied in the context of tumor growth and proliferation, has been shown to affect synaptic transmission, regulation of neuronal gene expression and protein synthesis leading to structural synaptic changes. However, to what extent the effects of ERK are specifically related to memory formation and stabilization, or merely the result of general neuronal activation, remains unknown. Here, we review the signals leading to ERK activation in the nervous system, the subcellular ERK targets associated with learning-related plasticity, and how neurons with activated ERK signaling may contribute to the formation of the memory trace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Ojea Ramos
- Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mariana Feld
- Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Mariana Feld,
| | - María Sol Fustiñana
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
- María Sol Fustiñana,
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11
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Amaral IM, Hofer A, El Rawas R. Implication of Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase in the Expression of Natural Reward: Evidence Not Found. Front Behav Neurosci 2022; 16:856675. [PMID: 35368299 PMCID: PMC8973696 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.856675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Many studies have implicated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) in drug-rewarding properties. Yet, only few investigated whether ERK also mediates the naturally rewarding stimuli. In this study, we compared ERK activation in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) after cocaine reward and after positive social interaction (SI) with a partner-reward in male rats. With our protocol, ERK phosphorylation in the NAc was not increased after cocaine reward. In addition, the interaction with a social partner did not alter ERK activation in the NAc. These results suggest that ERK in the NAc may not be involved in natural reward learning. SI in an alternative context to the one associated with drugs of abuse can abolish drug preference. Given that intra-NAc core ERK inhibition impaired the expression of cocaine preference, we wanted to investigate whether the protective effects of SI when an individual is allowed to interact with a social partner in an alternative context to the one associated with drugs during the learning phase are enhanced by ERK inhibition. For that, U0126 was bilaterally infused into the NAc core of rats conditioned with cocaine in one context and with SI in the opposite context before assessing the expression of reward-related learning. Intra-NAc core ERK inhibition was ineffective to impair the expression of drug reward as previously demonstrated, when a social partner was available in an alternative context. Thus, the effects of the pharmacological manipulations based on decreasing ERK activity are not cumulative to other treatments for drug addiction based on SI.
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12
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Morella I, Pohořalá V, Calpe-López C, Brambilla R, Spanagel R, Bernardi RE. Nicotine self-administration and ERK signaling are altered in RasGRF2 knockout mice. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:986566. [PMID: 36120353 PMCID: PMC9479000 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.986566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK (Ras-ERK) signaling has been demonstrated to play a role in the effects of drugs of abuse such as cocaine and alcohol, but has not been extensively examined in nicotine-related reward behaviors. We examined the role of Ras Guanine Nucleotide Releasing Factor 2 (RasGRF2), an upstream mediator of the Ras-ERK signaling pathway, on nicotine self-administration (SA) in RasGRF2 KO and WT mice. We first demonstrated that acute nicotine exposure (0.4 mg/kg) resulted in an increase in phosphorylated ERK1/2 (pERK1/2) in the striatum, consistent with previous reports. We also demonstrated that increases in pERK1/2 resulting from acute (0.4 mg/kg) and repeated (0.4 mg/kg, 10 daily injections) exposure to nicotine in WT mice were not present in RasGRF2 KO mice, confirming that RasGRF2 at least partly regulates the activity of the Ras-ERK signaling pathway following nicotine exposure. We then performed intravenous nicotine SA (0.03 mg/kg/infusion for 10 days) in RasGRF2 KO and WT mice. Consistent with a previous report using cocaine SA, RasGRF2 KO mice demonstrated an increase in nicotine SA relative to WT controls. These findings suggest a role for RasGRF2 in the reinforcing effects of nicotine, and implicate the Ras-ERK signaling pathway as a common mediator of the response to drugs of abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Morella
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom.,Division of Neuroscience, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Veronika Pohořalá
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Claudia Calpe-López
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Riccardo Brambilla
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom.,Division of Neuroscience, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Rainer Spanagel
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rick E Bernardi
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
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13
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A Rational Design of α-Helix-Shaped Peptides Employing the Hydrogen-Bond Surrogate Approach: A Modulation Strategy for Ras-RasGRF1 Interaction in Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14111099. [PMID: 34832880 PMCID: PMC8623491 DOI: 10.3390/ph14111099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last two decades, abnormal Ras (rat sarcoma protein)-ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) signalling in the brain has been involved in a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders, including drug addiction, certain forms of intellectual disability, and autism spectrum disorder. Modulation of membrane-receptor-mediated Ras activation has been proposed as a potential target mechanism to attenuate ERK signalling in the brain. Previously, we showed that a cell penetrating peptide, RB3, was able to inhibit downstream signalling by preventing RasGRF1 (Ras guanine nucleotide-releasing factor 1), a neuronal specific GDP/GTP exchange factor, to bind Ras proteins, both in brain slices and in vivo, with an IC50 value in the micromolar range. The aim of this work was to mutate and improve this peptide through computer-aided techniques to increase its inhibitory activity against RasGRF1. The designed peptides were built based on the RB3 peptide structure corresponding to the α-helix of RasGRF1 responsible for Ras binding. For this purpose, the hydrogen-bond surrogate (HBS) approach was exploited to maintain the helical conformation of the designed peptides. Finally, residue scanning, MD simulations, and MM-GBSA calculations were used to identify 18 most promising α-helix-shaped peptides that will be assayed to check their potential activity against Ras-RasGRF1 and prevent downstream molecular events implicated in brain disorders.
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14
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Foster SL, Lustberg DJ, Harbin NH, Bramlett SN, Hepler JR, Weinshenker D. RGS14 modulates locomotor behavior and ERK signaling induced by environmental novelty and cocaine within discrete limbic structures. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:2755-2773. [PMID: 34184126 PMCID: PMC8455459 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05892-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE In rodents, exposure to novel environments or psychostimulants promotes locomotion. Indeed, locomotor reactivity to novelty strongly predicts behavioral responses to psychostimulants in animal models of addiction. RGS14 is a plasticity-restricting protein with unique functional domains that enable it to suppress ERK-dependent signaling as well as regulate G protein activity. Although recent studies show that RGS14 is expressed in multiple limbic regions implicated in psychostimulant- and novelty-induced hyperlocomotion, its function has been examined mostly in the context of hippocampal physiology and memory. OBJECTIVE We investigated whether RGS14 modulates novelty- and cocaine-induced locomotion (NIL and CIL, respectively) and neuronal activity. METHODS We assessed Rgs14 knockout (RGS14 KO) mice and wild-type (WT) littermate controls using NIL and CIL behavioral tests, followed by quantification of c-fos and phosphorylated ERK (pERK) induction in limbic regions that normally express RGS14. RESULTS RGS14 KO mice were less active than WT controls in the NIL test, driven by avoidance of the center of the novel environment. By contrast, RGS14 KO mice demonstrated augmented peripheral locomotion in the CIL test conducted in either a familiar or novel environment. RGS14 KO mice exhibited increased thigmotaxis, as well as greater c-fos and pERK induction in the central amygdala and dorsal hippocampus, when cocaine and novelty were paired. CONCLUSIONS RGS14 KO mice exhibited anti-correlated locomotor responses to novelty and cocaine, but displayed increased thigmotaxis in response to either stimuli which was augmented by their combination. Our findings also suggest RGS14 may reduce neuronal activity in limbic subregions by inhibiting ERK-dependent signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Foster
- , Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael St., Whitehead 301, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Daniel J Lustberg
- , Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael St., Whitehead 301, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Nicholas H Harbin
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, 1510 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Sara N Bramlett
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, 1510 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - John R Hepler
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, 1510 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - David Weinshenker
- , Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael St., Whitehead 301, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
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15
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Borrie SC, Plasschaert E, Callaerts-Vegh Z, Yoshimura A, D'Hooge R, Elgersma Y, Kushner SA, Legius E, Brems H. MEK inhibition ameliorates social behavior phenotypes in a Spred1 knockout mouse model for RASopathy disorders. Mol Autism 2021; 12:53. [PMID: 34311771 PMCID: PMC8314535 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-021-00458-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND RASopathies are a group of disorders that result from mutations in genes coding for proteins involved in regulating the Ras-MAPK signaling pathway, and have an increased incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Legius syndrome is a rare RASopathy caused by loss-of-function mutations in the SPRED1 gene. The patient phenotype is similar to, but milder than, Neurofibromatosis type 1-another RASopathy caused by loss-of-function mutations in the NF1 gene. RASopathies exhibit increased activation of Ras-MAPK signaling and commonly manifest with cognitive impairments and ASD. Here, we investigated if a Spred1-/- mouse model for Legius syndrome recapitulates ASD-like symptoms, and whether targeting the Ras-MAPK pathway has therapeutic potential in this RASopathy mouse model. METHODS We investigated social and communicative behaviors in Spred1-/- mice and probed therapeutic mechanisms underlying the observed behavioral phenotypes by pharmacological targeting of the Ras-MAPK pathway with the MEK inhibitor PD325901. RESULTS Spred1-/- mice have robust increases in social dominance in the automated tube test and reduced adult ultrasonic vocalizations during social communication. Neonatal ultrasonic vocalization was also altered, with significant differences in spectral properties. Spred1-/- mice also exhibit impaired nesting behavior. Acute MEK inhibitor treatment in adulthood with PD325901 reversed the enhanced social dominance in Spred1-/- mice to normal levels, and improved nesting behavior in adult Spred1-/- mice. LIMITATIONS This study used an acute treatment protocol to administer the drug. It is not known what the effects of longer-term treatment would be on behavior. Further studies titrating the lowest dose of this drug that is required to alter Spred1-/- social behavior are still required. Finally, our findings are in a homozygous mouse model, whereas patients carry heterozygous mutations. These factors should be considered before any translational conclusions are drawn. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate for the first time that social behavior phenotypes in a mouse model for RASopathies (Spred1-/-) can be acutely reversed. This highlights a key role for Ras-MAPK dysregulation in mediating social behavior phenotypes in mouse models for ASD, suggesting that proper regulation of Ras-MAPK signaling is important for social behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah C Borrie
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, O&N1 Herestraat 49, Box 607, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ellen Plasschaert
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, O&N1 Herestraat 49, Box 607, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Akihiko Yoshimura
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rudi D'Hooge
- Laboratory for Biological Psychology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ype Elgersma
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Steven A Kushner
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric Legius
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, O&N1 Herestraat 49, Box 607, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hilde Brems
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, O&N1 Herestraat 49, Box 607, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
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16
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Spatiotemporal expression of Rap1 and Ras mediates the acquisition and reinstatement of methamphetamine-induced conditioned place preference in mice via extracellular signal-regulated kinase activation. Neuroreport 2021; 32:1035-1040. [PMID: 34232127 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000001686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Drug addiction is a chronic recurrent brain disease characterized by compulsive drug use and a high tendency to relapse. We previously reported that the Ras-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-ΔFosB pathway in the caudate putamen (CPu) was involved in methamphetamine-induced behavioral sensitization. Rap1, as an antagonist of Ras originally, was found to participate in neuronal synaptic plasticity recently, but the role of Rap1 in methamphetamine addiction is unclear. First, in this study, we constructed the acquisition, extinction and reinstatement of methamphetamine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) in mice, respectively. Then, protein levels of Rap1, Ras and pERK/ERK in the prefrontal cortex (PFc), CPu and hippocampus of CPP mice on three phases were detected. We found that protein levels of Rap1, Ras and pERK/ERK in the CPu were significantly increased after repeated methamphetamine administration, as well as Rap1 and pERK/ERK in the hippocampus. However, protein levels of Rap1 and pERK/ERK in the CPu were decreased on the reinstatement of CPP mice. Therefore, Rap1 and Ras in the CPu and Rap1 in the hippocampus may participate in the regulation of the acquisition of methamphetamine-induced CPP in mice by activating ERK. Moreover, Rap1-ERK cascade in the CPu contributes to both the acquisition and reinstatement of methamphetamine-induced CPP in mice.
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17
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Borrie SC, Horner AE, Yoshimura A, Legius E, Kopanitsa MV, Brems H. Impaired instrumental learning in Spred1 -/- mice, a model for a rare RASopathy. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2021; 20:e12727. [PMID: 33624414 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
RASopathies are neuro-cardio-facio-cutaneous disorders stemming from mutations in genes regulating the RAS-MAPK pathway. Legius syndrome is a rare RASopathy disorder caused by mutations in the SPRED1 gene. SPRED1 protein negatively regulates activation of Ras by inhibiting RAS/RAF and by its interaction with neurofibromin, a Ras GTPase-activating protein (RAS-GAP). Cognitive impairments have been reported in Legius syndrome as well as in other RASopathy disorders. Modelling these cognitive deficits in a Spred1 mouse model for Legius syndrome has demonstrated spatial learning and memory deficits, but other cognitive domains remained unexplored. Here, we attempted to utilize a cognitive touchscreen battery to investigate if Spred1-/- mice exhibit deficits in other cognitive domains. We show that Spred1-/- mice had heterogeneous performance in instrumental operant learning, with a large subgroup (n = 9/20) failing to reach the standard criterion on touchscreen operant pretraining, precluding further cognitive testing. To examine whether targeting the RAS-MAPK signalling pathway could rescue these cognitive impairments, Spred1-/- mice were acutely treated with the clinically relevant mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK) inhibitor PD325901. However, MEK inhibition did not improve their instrumental learning. We conclude that Spred1-/- mice can model severe cognitive impairments that cannot be reversed in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah C Borrie
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Akihiko Yoshimura
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eric Legius
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Hilde Brems
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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18
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Notartomaso S, Scarselli P, Mascio G, Liberatore F, Mazzon E, Mammana S, Gugliandolo A, Cruccu G, Bruno V, Nicoletti F, Battaglia G. N-Acetylcysteine causes analgesia in a mouse model of painful diabetic neuropathy. Mol Pain 2021; 16:1744806920904292. [PMID: 32009537 PMCID: PMC6997966 DOI: 10.1177/1744806920904292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
N-Acetylcysteine, one of the most prescribed antioxidant drugs, enhances pain
threshold in rodents and humans by activating mGlu2 metabotropic glutamate
receptors. Here, we assessed the analgesic activity of N-acetylcysteine in the
streptozotocin model of painful diabetic neuropathy and examined the effect of
N-acetylcysteine on proteins that are involved in mechanisms of nociceptive
sensitization. Mice with blood glucose levels ≥250 mg/dl in response to a single
intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of streptozotocin (200 mg/kg) were used for the
assessment of mechanical pain thresholds. Systemic treatment with
N-acetylcysteine (100 mg/kg, i.p., either single injection or daily injections
for seven days) caused analgesia in diabetic mice. N-acetylcysteine-induced
analgesia was abrogated by the Sxc− inhibitors, sulfasalazine (8 mg/kg, i.p.), erastin (30 mg/kg,
i.p.), and sorafenib (10 mg/kg, i.p.), or by the mGlu2/3 receptor antagonist,
LY341495 (1 mg/kg, i.p.). Repeated administrations of N-acetylcysteine in
diabetic mice reduced ERK1/2 phosphorylation in the dorsal region of the lumbar
spinal cord. The analgesic activity of N-acetylcysteine was occluded by the MEK
inhibitor, PD0325901 (25 mg/kg, i.p.), the TRPV1 channel blocker, capsazepine
(40 mg/kg, i.p.), or by a cocktail of NMDA and mGlu5 metabotropic glutamate
receptor antagonists (memantine, 25 mg/kg, plus MTEP, 5 mg/kg,
both i.p.). These findings offer the first demonstration that N-acetylcysteine
relieves pain associated with diabetic neuropathy and holds promise for the use
of N-acetylcysteine as an add-on drug in diabetic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pamela Scarselli
- IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Giada Mascio
- IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | | | | | - Santa Mammana
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", Messina, Italy
| | | | - Giorgio Cruccu
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Bruno
- IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Battaglia
- IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
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19
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Morè L, Lauterborn JC, Papaleo F, Brambilla R. Enhancing cognition through pharmacological and environmental interventions: Examples from preclinical models of neurodevelopmental disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 110:28-45. [PMID: 30981451 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
In this review we discuss the role of environmental and pharmacological treatments to enhance cognition with special regards to neurodevelopmental related disorders and aging. How the environment influences brain structure and function, and the interactions between rearing conditions and gene expression, are fundamental questions that are still poorly understood. We propose a model that can explain some of the discrepancies in findings for effects of environmental enrichment on outcome measures. Evidence of a direct causal correlation of nootropics and treatments that enhanced cognition also will be presented, and possible molecular mechanisms that include neurotrophin signaling and downstream pathways underlying these processes are discussed. Finally we review recent findings achieved with a wide set of behavioral and cognitive tasks that have translational validity to humans, and should be useful for future work on devising appropriate therapies. As will be discussed, the collective findings suggest that a combinational therapeutic approach of environmental enrichment and nootropics could be particularly successful for improving learning and memory in both developmental disorders and normal aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Morè
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, PR1 2XT, Preston, UK.
| | - Julie C Lauterborn
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92617, USA.
| | - Francesco Papaleo
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30, 16163, Genova, Italy.
| | - Riccardo Brambilla
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute (NMHRI), Division of Neuroscience, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, CF24 4HQ, Cardiff, UK.
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20
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Morella I, Hallum H, Brambilla R. Dopamine D1 and Glutamate Receptors Co-operate With Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and TrkB to Modulate ERK Signaling in Adult Striatal Slices. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:564106. [PMID: 33304241 PMCID: PMC7701236 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.564106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the striatum, the input nucleus of the basal ganglia, the extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway, necessary for various forms of behavioral plasticity, is triggered by the combined engagement of dopamine D1 and ionotropic glutamate receptors. In this study, we investigated the potential crosstalk between glutamatergic, dopaminergic, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-TrkB inputs to ERK cascade by using an ex vivo model of mouse striatal slices. Our results confirmed that the concomitant stimulation of D1 and glutamate receptors is necessary to activate ERK in striatal medium spiny neurons (MSNs). Moreover, we found that ERK activation is significantly enhanced when BDNF is co-applied either with glutamate or the D1 agonist SKF38393, supporting the idea of possible integration between BDNF, glutamate, and D1R-mediated signaling. Interestingly, ERK activation via BDNF-TrkB is upregulated upon blockade of either AMPAR/NMDAR or D1 receptors, suggesting a negative regulatory action of these two neurotransmitter systems on BDNF-mediated signaling. However, the observed enhancement of ERK1/2 phosphorylation does not result in corresponding downstream signaling changes at the nuclear level. Conversely, the TrkB antagonist cyclotraxin B partially prevents glutamate- and D1-mediated ERK activation. Altogether, these results suggest a complex and unexpected interaction among dopaminergic, glutamatergic, and BDNF receptor systems to modulate the ERK pathway in striatal neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Morella
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom.,Division of Neuroscience, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Harriet Hallum
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom.,Division of Neuroscience, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Riccardo Brambilla
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom.,Division of Neuroscience, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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21
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Bernardi RE, Olevska A, Morella I, Fasano S, Santos E, Brambilla R, Spanagel R. The Inhibition of RasGRF2, But Not RasGRF1, Alters Cocaine Reward in Mice. J Neurosci 2019; 39:6325-6338. [PMID: 31182637 PMCID: PMC6687905 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1120-18.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK (Ras-ERK) signaling has been implicated in the effects of drugs of abuse. Inhibitors of MEK1/2, the kinases upstream of ERK1/2, have been critical in defining the role of the Ras-ERK cascade in drug-dependent alterations in behavioral plasticity, but the Ras family of small GTPases has not been extensively examined in drug-related behaviors. We examined the role of Ras Guanine Nucleotide Releasing Factor 1 (RasGRF1) and 2 (RasGRF2), upstream regulators of the Ras-ERK signaling cascade, on cocaine self-administration (SA) in male mice. We first established a role for Ras-ERK signaling in cocaine SA, demonstrating that pERK1/2 is upregulated following SA in C57BL/6N mice in striatum. We then compared RasGRF1 and RasGRF2 KO mouse lines, demonstrating that cocaine SA in RasGRF2 KO mice was increased relative to WT controls, whereas RasGRF1 KO and WT mice did not differ. This effect in RasGRF2 mice is likely mediated by the Ras-ERK signaling pathway, as pERK1/2 upregulation following cocaine SA was absent in RasGRF2 KO mice. Interestingly, the lentiviral knockdown of RasGRF2 in the NAc had the opposite effect to that in RasGRF2 KO mice, reducing cocaine SA. We subsequently demonstrated that the MEK inhibitor PD325901 administered peripherally prior to cocaine SA increased cocaine intake, replicating the increase seen in RasGRF2 KO mice, whereas PD325901 administered into the NAc decreased cocaine intake, similar to the effect seen following lentiviral knockdown of RasGRF2. These data indicate a role for RasGRF2 in cocaine SA in mice that is ERK-dependent, and suggest a differential effect of global versus site-specific RasGRF2 inhibition.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Exposure to drugs of abuse activates a variety of intracellular pathways, and following repeated exposure, persistent changes in these pathways contribute to drug dependence. Downstream components of the Ras-ERK signaling cascade are involved in the acute and chronic effects of drugs of abuse, but their upstream mediators have not been extensively characterized. Here we show, using a combination of molecular, pharmacological, and lentiviral techniques, that the guanine nucleotide exchange factor RasGRF2 mediates cocaine self-administration via an ERK-dependent mechanism, whereas RasGRF1 has no effect on responding for cocaine. These data indicate dissociative effects of mediators of Ras activity on cocaine reward and expand the understanding of the contribution of Ras-ERK signaling to drug-taking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rick E Bernardi
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim 68159, Germany,
| | - Anastasia Olevska
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim 68159, Germany
| | - Ilaria Morella
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, United Kingdom
- Cardiff University, School of Biosciences, Division of Neuroscience, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, United Kingdom, and
| | - Stefania Fasano
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, United Kingdom
- Cardiff University, School of Biosciences, Division of Neuroscience, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, United Kingdom, and
| | - Eugenio Santos
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer-Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer (CSIC-Universidad de Salamanca) and CIBERONC, Salamanca, Spain, 37007
| | - Riccardo Brambilla
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, United Kingdom
- Cardiff University, School of Biosciences, Division of Neuroscience, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, United Kingdom, and
| | - Rainer Spanagel
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim 68159, Germany
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Valjent E, Biever A, Gangarossa G, Puighermanal E. Dopamine signaling in the striatum. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2019; 116:375-396. [PMID: 31036297 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2019.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The striatum integrates dopamine-mediated reward signals to generate appropriate behavior in response to glutamate-mediated sensory cues. Such associative learning relies on enduring neural plasticity in striatal GABAergic spiny projection neurons which, when altered, can lead to the development of a wide variety of pathological states. Considerable progress has been made in our understanding of the intracellular signaling mechanisms in dopamine-related behaviors and pathologies. Through the prism of the regulation of histone H3 and ribosomal protein S6 phosphorylation, we review how dopamine-mediated signaling events regulate gene transcription and mRNA translation. Particularly, we focus on the intracellular cascades controlling these phosphorylations downstream of the modulation of dopamine receptors by psychostimulants, antipsychotics and l-DOPA. Finally, we highlight the importance to precisely determine in which neuronal populations these signaling events occur in order to understand how they participate in remodeling neural circuits and altering dopamine-related behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Valjent
- IGF, CNRS, INSERM, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
| | - Anne Biever
- Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Giuseppe Gangarossa
- Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative, CNRS UMR 8251, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Emma Puighermanal
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Neuroscience, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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23
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Beauvais G, Watson JL, Aguirre JA, Tecedor L, Ehrlich ME, Gonzalez-Alegre P. Efficient RNA interference-based knockdown of mutant torsinA reveals reversibility of PERK-eIF2α pathway dysregulation in DYT1 transgenic rats in vivo. Brain Res 2018; 1706:24-31. [PMID: 30366018 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2018.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
DYT1 dystonia is a neurological disease caused by a dominant mutation that results in the loss of a glutamic acid in the endoplasmic reticulum-resident protein torsinA. Currently, treatments are symptomatic and only provide partial relief. Multiple reports support the hypothesis that selectively reducing expression of mutant torsinA without affecting levels of the wild type protein should be beneficial. Published cell-based studies support this hypothesis. It is unclear, however, if phenotypes are reversible by targeting the molecular defect once established in vivo. Here, we generated adeno-associated virus encoding artificial microRNA targeting human mutant torsinA and delivered them to the striatum of symptomatic transgenic rats that express the full human TOR1A mutant gene. We achieved efficient suppression of human mutant torsinA expression in DYT1 transgenic rats, partly reversing its accumulation in the nuclear envelope. This intervention rescued PERK-eIF2α pathway dysregulation in striatal projection neurons but not behavioral abnormalities. Moreover, we found abnormal expression of components of dopaminergic neurotransmission in DYT1 rat striatum, which were not normalized by suppressing mutant torsinA expression. Our findings demonstrate the reversibility of translational dysregulation in DYT1 neurons and confirm the presence of abnormal dopaminergic neurotransmission in DYT1 dystonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve Beauvais
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular & Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Jaime L Watson
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular & Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Jose A Aguirre
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Malaga, Malaga 29071, Spain
| | - Luis Tecedor
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular & Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Michelle E Ehrlich
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. New York, NY 10029, United States
| | - Pedro Gonzalez-Alegre
- Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular & Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States; Department of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
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24
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Pharmacological Inhibition of ERK Signaling Rescues Pathophysiology and Behavioral Phenotype Associated with 16p11.2 Chromosomal Deletion in Mice. J Neurosci 2018; 38:6640-6652. [PMID: 29934348 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0515-17.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The human 16p11.2 microdeletion is one of the most common gene copy number variations linked to autism, but the pathophysiology associated with this chromosomal abnormality is largely unknown. The 593 kb deletion contains the ERK1 gene and other genes that converge onto the ERK/MAP kinase pathway. Perturbations in ERK signaling are linked to a group of related neurodevelopmental disorders hallmarked by intellectual disability, including autism. We report that mice harboring the 16p11.2 deletion exhibit a paradoxical elevation of ERK activity, cortical cytoarchitecture abnormalities and behavioral deficits. Importantly, we show that treatment with a novel ERK pathway inhibitor during a critical period of brain development rescues the molecular, anatomical and behavioral deficits in the 16p11.2 deletion mice. The ERK inhibitor treatment administered to adult mice ameliorates a subset of these behavioral deficits. Our findings provide evidence for potential targeted therapeutic intervention in 16p11.2 deletion carriers.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The ERK/MAPK pathway is genetically linked to autism spectrum disorders and other syndromes typified by intellectual disability. We provide direct evidence connecting the ERK/MAP kinases to the developmental abnormalities in neurogenesis and cortical cytoarchitecture associated with the 16p11.2 chromosomal deletion. Most importantly, we demonstrate that treatment with a novel ERK-specific inhibitor during development rescues aberrant cortical cytoarchitecture and restores normal levels of cell-cycle regulators during cortical neurogenesis. These treatments partially reverse the behavioral deficits observed in the 16p11.2del mouse model, including hyperactivity, memory as well as olfaction, and maternal behavior. We also report a rescue of a subset of these deficits upon treatment of adult 16p11.2del mice. These data provide a strong rationale for therapeutic approaches to this disorder.
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25
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Epigenetic mechanisms associated with addiction-related behavioural effects of nicotine and/or cocaine: implication of the endocannabinoid system. Behav Pharmacol 2018; 28:493-511. [PMID: 28704272 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The addictive use of nicotine (NC) and cocaine (COC) continues to be a major public health problem, and their combined use has been reported, particularly during adolescence. In neural plasticity, commonly induced by NC and COC, as well as behavioural plasticity related to the use of these two drugs, the involvement of epigenetic mechanisms, in which the reversible regulation of gene expression occurs independently of the DNA sequence, has recently been reported. Furthermore, on the basis of intense interactions with the target neurotransmitter systems, the endocannabinoid (ECB) system has been considered pivotal for eliciting the effects of NC or COC. The combined use of marijuana with NC and/or COC has also been reported. This article presents the addiction-related behavioural effects of NC and/or COC, based on the common behavioural/neural plasticity and combined use of NC/COC, and reviews the interacting role of the ECB system. The epigenetic processes inseparable from the effects of NC and/or COC (i.e. DNA methylation, histone modifications and alterations in microRNAs) and the putative therapeutic involvement of the ECB system at the epigenetic level are also discussed.
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26
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Antoine MW, Zhu X, Dieterich M, Brandt T, Vijayakumar S, McKeehan N, Arezzo JC, Zukin RS, Borkholder DA, Jones SM, Frisina RD, Hébert JM. Early uneven ear input induces long-lasting differences in left-right motor function. PLoS Biol 2018. [PMID: 29534062 PMCID: PMC5849283 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.2002988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
How asymmetries in motor behavior become established normally or atypically in mammals remains unclear. An established model for motor asymmetry that is conserved across mammals can be obtained by experimentally inducing asymmetric striatal dopamine activity. However, the factors that can cause motor asymmetries in the absence of experimental manipulations to the brain remain unknown. Here, we show that mice with inner ear dysfunction display a robust left or right rotational preference, and this motor preference reflects an atypical asymmetry in cortico-striatal neurotransmission. By unilaterally targeting striatal activity with an antagonist of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), a downstream integrator of striatal neurotransmitter signaling, we can reverse or exaggerate rotational preference in these mice. By surgically biasing vestibular failure to one ear, we can dictate the direction of motor preference, illustrating the influence of uneven vestibular failure in establishing the outward asymmetries in motor preference. The inner ear–induced striatal asymmetries identified here intersect with non–ear-induced asymmetries previously linked to lateralized motor behavior across species and suggest that aspects of left–right brain function in mammals can be ontogenetically influenced by inner ear input. Consistent with inner ear input contributing to motor asymmetry, we also show that, in humans with normal ear function, the motor-dominant hemisphere, measured as handedness, is ipsilateral to the ear with weaker vestibular input. Despite a long-standing fascination with asymmetries in left–right brain function, very little is known about the causes of functional brain asymmetry in mammals, which appear independent of the mechanisms that create anatomical asymmetries during development. Asymmetries in motor function are a common example and include preferred turning direction, handedness, and footedness. In this study, using mouse models, we establish a causal link between transient imbalances in degenerating inner ear function and the establishment of stable asymmetries in neural pathways that regulate motor activity and in motor behavior. Our study also suggests that shared mechanisms may underlie lateralized motor behaviors across mammalian species. For example, we show that in humans with normal ear function, the strength of the vestibular response from each ear in the forebrain correlates with asymmetric motor behavior, measured as handedness. In a broader sense, our study reveals a conceptually novel role for sensory input in shaping the asymmetric distribution of brain function, a process for which there is otherwise no clear mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle W. Antoine
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MWA); (JMH)
| | - Xiaoxia Zhu
- Departments of Chemical & Biomedical Engineering and Communication Sciences & Disorders, Global Center for Hearing & Speech Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Marianne Dieterich
- Department of Neurology, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich and Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Brandt
- Institute for Clinical Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Sarath Vijayakumar
- Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Nicholas McKeehan
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Joseph C. Arezzo
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - R. Suzanne Zukin
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - David A. Borkholder
- Microsystems Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, United States of America
| | - Sherri M. Jones
- Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Robert D. Frisina
- Departments of Chemical & Biomedical Engineering and Communication Sciences & Disorders, Global Center for Hearing & Speech Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Jean M. Hébert
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MWA); (JMH)
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27
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Arcuri L, Novello S, Frassineti M, Mercatelli D, Pisanò CA, Morella I, Fasano S, Journigan BV, Meyer ME, Polgar WE, Brambilla R, Zaveri NT, Morari M. Anti-Parkinsonian and anti-dyskinetic profiles of two novel potent and selective nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor agonists. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 175:782-796. [PMID: 29232769 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2017] [Revised: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE We previously showed that nociceptin/orphanin FQ opioid peptide (NOP) receptor agonists attenuate the expression of levodopa-induced dyskinesia in animal models of Parkinson's disease. We now investigate the efficacy of two novel, potent and chemically distinct NOP receptor agonists, AT-390 and AT-403, to improve Parkinsonian disabilities and attenuate dyskinesia development and expression. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Binding affinity and functional efficacy of AT-390 and AT-403 at the opioid receptors were determined in radioligand displacement assays and in GTPγS binding assays respectively, conducted in CHO cells. Their anti-Parkinsonian activity was evaluated in 6-hydroxydopamine hemi-lesioned rats whereas the anti-dyskinetic properties were assessed in 6-hydroxydopamine hemi-lesioned rats chronically treated with levodopa. The ability of AT-403 to inhibit the D1 receptor-induced phosphorylation of striatal ERK was investigated. KEY RESULTS AT-390 and AT-403 selectively improved akinesia at low doses and disrupted global motor activity at higher doses. AT-403 palliated dyskinesia expression without causing sedation in a narrow therapeutic window, whereas AT-390 delayed the appearance of abnormal involuntary movements and increased their duration at doses causing sedation. AT-403 did not prevent the priming to levodopa, although it significantly inhibited dyskinesia on the first day of administration. AT-403 reduced the ERK phosphorylation induced by SKF38393 in vitro and by levodopa in vivo. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS NOP receptor stimulation can provide significant albeit mild anti-dyskinetic effect at doses not causing sedation. The therapeutic window, however, varies across compounds. AT-403 could be a potent and selective tool to investigate the role of NOP receptors in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludovico Arcuri
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Neuroscience Center and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Salvatore Novello
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Neuroscience Center and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Frassineti
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Neuroscience Center and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Daniela Mercatelli
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Neuroscience Center and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Clarissa Anna Pisanò
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Neuroscience Center and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Morella
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.,School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Stefania Fasano
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.,School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | | | | | - Riccardo Brambilla
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.,School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Michele Morari
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Neuroscience Center and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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28
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Kersh AE, Ng S, Chang YM, Sasaki M, Thomas SN, Kissick HT, Lesinski GB, Kudchadkar RR, Waller EK, Pollack BP. Targeted Therapies: Immunologic Effects and Potential Applications Outside of Cancer. J Clin Pharmacol 2018; 58:7-24. [PMID: 29136276 PMCID: PMC5972536 DOI: 10.1002/jcph.1028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Two pharmacologic approaches that are currently at the forefront of treating advanced cancer are those that center on disrupting critical growth/survival signaling pathways within tumor cells (commonly referred to as "targeted therapies") and those that center on enhancing the capacity of a patient's immune system to mount an antitumor response (immunotherapy). Maximizing responses to both of these approaches requires an understanding of the oncogenic events present in a given patient's tumor and the nature of the tumor-immune microenvironment. Although these 2 modalities were developed and initially used independently, combination regimens are now being tested in clinical trials, underscoring the need to understand how targeted therapies influence immunologic events. Translational studies and preclinical models have demonstrated that targeted therapies can influence immune cell trafficking, the production of and response to chemokines and cytokines, antigen presentation, and other processes relevant to antitumor immunity and immune homeostasis. Moreover, because these and other effects of targeted therapies occur in nonmalignant cells, targeted therapies are being evaluated for use in applications outside of oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna E. Kersh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Spencer Ng
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Yun Min Chang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory Vaccine Center, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - Susan N. Thomas
- Emory University Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA, USA
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Parker H. Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Haydn T. Kissick
- Emory University Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Urology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gregory B. Lesinski
- Emory University Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ragini R. Kudchadkar
- Emory University Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Edmund K. Waller
- Emory University Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Brian P. Pollack
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory University Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA, USA
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29
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Rich MT, Torregrossa MM. Molecular and synaptic mechanisms regulating drug-associated memories: Towards a bidirectional treatment strategy. Brain Res Bull 2017; 141:58-71. [PMID: 28916448 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2017.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Revised: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The successful treatment of substance use disorders is dependent on the establishment of a long-term abstinent state. Relapse can be suppressed by interfering with memories of drug use that are evoked by re-exposure to drug-associated contexts and cues. Two strategies for accomplishing this goal are either to prevent drug-memory reconsolidation or to induce the formation of a competing, extinction memory. However, clinical attempts to prolong abstinence by behavioral modification of drug-related memories have had limited success. One approach to improve behavioral treatment strategies is to identify the molecular mechanisms that regulate these memory processes and then use pharmacological tools as supplements to improve efficacy. Still, due to the involvement of several overlapping signaling cascades in both reconsolidation and extinction, it is difficult to specifically modify one of the two processes. For example, attempting to elicit extinction may instead initiate reconsolidation, resulting in the unintentional strengthening of drug-related memories. A better approach is to identify diverging components of the two processes, whereby a single medication would simultaneously weaken reconsolidation and enhance extinction. This review will provide an overview of the neural substrates that are involved in the regulation of drug-associated memories, and will discuss emerging approaches to pharmacologically weaken these memories, including recent efforts to precisely and bidirectionally target reconsolidation and extinction. Ultimately, pharmacologically-enhanced memory-based approaches have the potential to produce more informed relapse-prevention therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew T Rich
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, 3811 O'Hara St., Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States; Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, 4200 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, United States; Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, University of Pittsburgh, 4400 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, United States.
| | - Mary M Torregrossa
- Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, 4200 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, United States.
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30
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Kuiper LB, Frohmader KS, Coolen LM. Maladaptive Sexual Behavior Following Concurrent Methamphetamine and Sexual Experience in Male Rats is Associated with Altered Neural Activity in Frontal Cortex. Neuropsychopharmacology 2017; 42:2011-2020. [PMID: 28051103 PMCID: PMC5561340 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2017.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Revised: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 12/26/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The use of psychostimulants is often associated with hypersexuality, and psychostimulant users have identified the effects of drug on sexual behavior as a reason for further use. It was previously demonstrated in male rats that methamphetamine (Meth), when administered concurrently with sexual behavior results in impairment of inhibition of sexual behavior in a conditioned sex aversion (CSA) paradigm where mating is paired with illness. This is indicative of maladaptive sex behavior following Meth and sex experience. The present study examined the neural pathways activated during inhibition of sexual behavior in male rats and the effects of concurrent Meth and sexual behavior on neural activity, using ERK phosphorylation (pERK). First, exposure to conditioned aversive stimuli in males trained to inhibit sexual behavior in the CSA paradigm increased pERK expression in medial prefrontal (mPFC), orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) and areas in striatum and amygdala. Second, effects of concurrent Meth and sex experience were tested in males that were exposed to four daily sessions of concurrent Meth (1 mg/kg) or saline and mating and subsequently exposed to CSA one week after last treatment. Meth and mating-treated males showed significant impairment of inhibition of mating, higher pERK expression under baseline conditions, and disrupted pERK induction by exposure to the conditioned aversive stimuli in mPFC and OFC. These alterations of pERK occurred in CaMKII-expressing neurons, suggesting changes in efferent projections of these areas. Altogether, these data show that concurrent Meth and mating experience causes maladapative sexual behavior that is associated with alterations in neural activation in mPFC and OFC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey B Kuiper
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA,Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Karla S Frohmader
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada,Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lique M Coolen
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA,Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada,Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA,Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500N State Street, Jackson, MS 39216, USA, Tel: +601 815 8761, E-mail:
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31
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Borrie SC, Brems H, Legius E, Bagni C. Cognitive Dysfunctions in Intellectual Disabilities: The Contributions of the Ras-MAPK and PI3K-AKT-mTOR Pathways. Annu Rev Genomics Hum Genet 2017; 18:115-142. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-genom-091416-035332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah C. Borrie
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hilde Brems
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Eric Legius
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Claudia Bagni
- Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00173 Rome, Italy
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