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Menteşe Babayiğit T, Gümüş-Akay G, Uytun MÇ, Doğan Ö, Serdar MA, Efendi GY, Erman AG, Yürümez E, Öztop DB. Investigation of Liver X Receptor Gene Variants and Oxysterol Dysregulation in Autism Spectrum Disorder. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:551. [PMID: 38790546 PMCID: PMC11120122 DOI: 10.3390/children11050551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
The NR1H2 gene produces the Liver X Receptor Beta (LXRB) protein, which is crucial for brain cholesterol metabolism and neuronal development. However, its involvement in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remains largely unexplored, aside from animal studies. This study is the first to explore the potential link between autism and rs2695121/rs17373080 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the regulatory regions of NR1H2, known for their association with neuropsychiatric functions. Additionally, we assessed levels of oxysterols (24-Hydroxycholesterol, 25-Hydroxycholesterol, 27-Hydroxycholesterol), crucial ligands of LXR, and lipid profiles. Our cohort comprised 107 children with ASD and 103 healthy children aged 2-18 years. Clinical assessment tools included the Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Autistic Behavior Checklist, and Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised. Genotyping for SNPs was conducted using PCR-RFLP. Lipid profiles were analyzed with Beckman Coulter kits, while oxysterol levels were determined through liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Significantly higher total cholesterol (p = 0.003), LDL (p = 0.008), and triglyceride (p < 0.001) levels were observed in the ASD group. 27-Hydroxycholesterol levels were markedly lower in the ASD group (p ≤ 0.001). ROC analysis indicated the potential of 27-Hydroxycholesterol to discriminate ASD diagnosis. The SNP genotype and allele frequencies were similar in both groups (p > 0.05). Our findings suggest that disturbances in oxysterol metabolism, previously linked to neurodegeneration, may constitute a risk factor for ASD and contribute to its heterogeneous phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuğba Menteşe Babayiğit
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Aksaray University School of Medicine Training and Research Hospital, Aksaray 68100, Turkey
| | - Güvem Gümüş-Akay
- Department of Physiology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara 06100, Turkey;
- Brain Research Center (AUBAUM), Ankara University, Ankara 06340, Turkey
- Neuroscience and Neurotechnology Center of Excellence (NÖROM), Ankara University, Ankara 06560, Turkey
| | - Merve Çikili Uytun
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara 06100, Turkey; (M.Ç.U.); (E.Y.); (D.B.Ö.)
| | - Özlem Doğan
- Department of Biochemistry, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara 06100, Turkey;
| | - Muhittin A. Serdar
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Acıbadem University School of Medicine, Ankara 06460, Turkey;
| | - Gökçe Yağmur Efendi
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Kocaeli University School of Medicine, Kocaeli 41001, Turkey;
| | - Ayşe Gökçe Erman
- Department of Basic Biotechnology, Ankara University Institute of Biotechnology, Ankara 06135, Turkey;
| | - Esra Yürümez
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara 06100, Turkey; (M.Ç.U.); (E.Y.); (D.B.Ö.)
| | - Didem Behice Öztop
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara 06100, Turkey; (M.Ç.U.); (E.Y.); (D.B.Ö.)
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2
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Lingwood C. Is cholesterol both the lock and key to abnormal transmembrane signals in Autism Spectrum Disorder? Lipids Health Dis 2024; 23:114. [PMID: 38643132 PMCID: PMC11032007 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-024-02075-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Disturbances in cholesterol homeostasis have been associated with ASD. Lipid rafts are central in many transmembrane signaling pathways (including mTOR) and changes in raft cholesterol content affect their order function. Cholesterol levels are controlled by several mechanisms, including endoplasmic reticulum associated degradation (ERAD) of the rate limiting HMGCoA reductase. A new approach to increase cholesterol via temporary ERAD blockade using a benign bacterial toxin-derived competitor for the ERAD translocon is suggested.A new lock and key model for cholesterol/lipid raft dependent signaling is proposed in which the rafts provide both the afferent and efferent 'tumblers' across the membrane to allow 'lock and key' receptor transmembrane signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clifford Lingwood
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Research Institute, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada.
- Departments of Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada.
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3
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Peeples ES, Mirnics K, Korade Z. Chemical Inhibition of Sterol Biosynthesis. Biomolecules 2024; 14:410. [PMID: 38672427 PMCID: PMC11048061 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040410] [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: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol is an essential molecule of life, and its synthesis can be inhibited by both genetic and nongenetic mechanisms. Hundreds of chemicals that we are exposed to in our daily lives can alter sterol biosynthesis. These also encompass various classes of FDA-approved medications, including (but not limited to) commonly used antipsychotic, antidepressant, antifungal, and cardiovascular medications. These medications can interfere with various enzymes of the post-lanosterol biosynthetic pathway, giving rise to complex biochemical changes throughout the body. The consequences of these short- and long-term homeostatic disruptions are mostly unknown. We performed a comprehensive review of the literature and built a catalogue of chemical agents capable of inhibiting post-lanosterol biosynthesis. This process identified significant gaps in existing knowledge, which fall into two main areas: mechanisms by which sterol biosynthesis is altered and consequences that arise from the inhibitions of the different steps in the sterol biosynthesis pathway. The outcome of our review also reinforced that sterol inhibition is an often-overlooked mechanism that can result in adverse consequences and that there is a need to develop new safety guidelines for the use of (novel and already approved) medications with sterol biosynthesis inhibiting side effects, especially during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric S. Peeples
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA;
- Child Health Research Institute, Omaha, NE 68198, USA;
- Division of Neonatology, Children’s Nebraska, Omaha, NE 68114, USA
| | - Karoly Mirnics
- Child Health Research Institute, Omaha, NE 68198, USA;
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Munroe-Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Zeljka Korade
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA;
- Child Health Research Institute, Omaha, NE 68198, USA;
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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4
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Yap CX, Henders AK, Alvares GA, Giles C, Huynh K, Nguyen A, Wallace L, McLaren T, Yang Y, Hernandez LM, Gandal MJ, Hansell NK, Cleary D, Grove R, Hafekost C, Harun A, Holdsworth H, Jellett R, Khan F, Lawson LP, Leslie J, Levis Frenk M, Masi A, Mathew NE, Muniandy M, Nothard M, Miller JL, Nunn L, Strike LT, Cadby G, Moses EK, de Zubicaray GI, Thompson PM, McMahon KL, Wright MJ, Visscher PM, Dawson PA, Dissanayake C, Eapen V, Heussler HS, Whitehouse AJO, Meikle PJ, Wray NR, Gratten J. Interactions between the lipidome and genetic and environmental factors in autism. Nat Med 2023; 29:936-949. [PMID: 37076741 PMCID: PMC10115648 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-023-02271-1] [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: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Autism omics research has historically been reductionist and diagnosis centric, with little attention paid to common co-occurring conditions (for example, sleep and feeding disorders) and the complex interplay between molecular profiles and neurodevelopment, genetics, environmental factors and health. Here we explored the plasma lipidome (783 lipid species) in 765 children (485 diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)) within the Australian Autism Biobank. We identified lipids associated with ASD diagnosis (n = 8), sleep disturbances (n = 20) and cognitive function (n = 8) and found that long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids may causally contribute to sleep disturbances mediated by the FADS gene cluster. We explored the interplay of environmental factors with neurodevelopment and the lipidome, finding that sleep disturbances and unhealthy diet have a convergent lipidome profile (with potential mediation by the microbiome) that is also independently associated with poorer adaptive function. In contrast, ASD lipidome differences were accounted for by dietary differences and sleep disturbances. We identified a large chr19p13.2 copy number variant genetic deletion spanning the LDLR gene and two high-confidence ASD genes (ELAVL3 and SMARCA4) in one child with an ASD diagnosis and widespread low-density lipoprotein-related lipidome derangements. Lipidomics captures the complexity of neurodevelopment, as well as the biological effects of conditions that commonly affect quality of life among autistic people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe X Yap
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Anjali K Henders
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
| | - Gail A Alvares
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Corey Giles
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kevin Huynh
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anh Nguyen
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Leanne Wallace
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tiana McLaren
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yuanhao Yang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
| | - Leanna M Hernandez
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michael J Gandal
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Lifespan Brain Institute at Penn Medicine and The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Program in Neurobehavioral Genetics, Semel Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Narelle K Hansell
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Dominique Cleary
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Rachel Grove
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Claire Hafekost
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Alexis Harun
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Helen Holdsworth
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rachel Jellett
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Feroza Khan
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lauren P Lawson
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Department of Psychology, Counselling and Therapy, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jodie Leslie
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Mira Levis Frenk
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anne Masi
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nisha E Mathew
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Melanie Muniandy
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michaela Nothard
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jessica L Miller
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lorelle Nunn
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lachlan T Strike
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Gemma Cadby
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Eric K Moses
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Greig I de Zubicaray
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul M Thompson
- Imaging Genetics Center, Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Katie L McMahon
- School of Clinical Sciences, Centre for Biomedical Technologies, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Margaret J Wright
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Peter M Visscher
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul A Dawson
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
| | - Cheryl Dissanayake
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Valsamma Eapen
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Academic Unit of Child Psychiatry South West Sydney, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Helen S Heussler
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Child Development Program, Children's Health Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Andrew J O Whitehouse
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Peter J Meikle
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Baker Department of Cardiovascular Research, Translation and Implementation, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Naomi R Wray
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jacob Gratten
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism, Long Pocket, Queensland, Australia.
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Lin J, de Rezende VL, de Aguiar da Costa M, de Oliveira J, Gonçalves CL. Cholesterol metabolism pathway in autism spectrum disorder: From animal models to clinical observations. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2023; 223:173522. [PMID: 36717034 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2023.173522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a persistent impairment of social skills, including aspects of perception, interpretation, and response, combined with restricted and repetitive behavior. ASD is a complex and multifactorial condition, and its etiology could be attributed to genetic and environmental factors. Despite numerous clinical and experimental studies, no etiological factor, biomarker, and specific model of transmission have been consistently associated with ASD. However, an imbalance in cholesterol levels has been observed in many patients, more specifically, a condition of hypocholesterolemia, which seems to be shared between ASD and ASD-related genetic syndromes such as fragile X syndrome (FXS), Rett syndrome (RS), and Smith- Lemli-Opitz (SLO). Furthermore, it is known that alterations in cholesterol levels lead to neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, impaired myelination and synaptogenesis. Thus, the aim of this review is to discuss the cholesterol metabolic pathways in the ASD context, as well as in genetic syndromes related to ASD, through clinical observations and animal models. In fact, SLO, FXS, and RS patients display early behavioral markers of ASD followed by cholesterol disturbances. Several studies have demonstrated the role of cholesterol in psychiatric conditions and how its levels modulate brain neurodevelopment. This review suggests an important relationship between ASD pathology and cholesterol metabolism impairment; thus, some strategies could be raised - at clinical and pre-clinical levels - to explore whether cholesterol metabolism disturbance has a generally adverse effect in exacerbating the symptoms of ASD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Lin
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Victória Linden de Rezende
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Maiara de Aguiar da Costa
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Jade de Oliveira
- Laboratory for Research in Metabolic Disorders and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Cinara Ludvig Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil.
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Freel BA, Kelvington BA, Sengupta S, Mukherjee M, Francis KR. Sterol dysregulation in Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome causes astrocyte immune reactivity through microglia crosstalk. Dis Model Mech 2022; 15:dmm049843. [PMID: 36524414 PMCID: PMC10655813 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Owing to the need for de novo cholesterol synthesis and cholesterol-enriched structures within the nervous system, cholesterol homeostasis is critical to neurodevelopment. Diseases caused by genetic disruption of cholesterol biosynthesis, such as Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome, which is caused by mutations in 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR7), frequently result in broad neurological deficits. Although astrocytes regulate multiple neural processes ranging from cell migration to network-level communication, immunological activation of astrocytes is a hallmark pathology in many diseases. However, the impact of DHCR7 on astrocyte function and immune activation remains unknown. We demonstrate that astrocytes from Dhcr7 mutant mice display hallmark signs of reactivity, including increased expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and cellular hypertrophy. Transcript analyses demonstrate extensive Dhcr7 astrocyte immune activation, hyper-responsiveness to glutamate stimulation and altered calcium flux. We further determine that the impacts of Dhcr7 are not astrocyte intrinsic but result from non-cell-autonomous effects of microglia. Our data suggest that astrocyte-microglia crosstalk likely contributes to the neurological phenotypes observed in disorders of cholesterol biosynthesis. Additionally, these data further elucidate a role for cholesterol metabolism within the astrocyte-microglia immune axis, with possible implications in other neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany A. Freel
- Basic Biomedical Sciences, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
- Cellular Therapies and Stem Cell Biology Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
| | - Benjamin A. Kelvington
- Cellular Therapies and Stem Cell Biology Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
| | - Sonali Sengupta
- Cellular Therapies and Stem Cell Biology Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
| | - Malini Mukherjee
- Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics Core, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
| | - Kevin R. Francis
- Cellular Therapies and Stem Cell Biology Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD 57105, USA
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Tomita H, Hines KM, Herron JM, Li A, Baggett DW, Xu L. 7-Dehydrocholesterol-derived oxysterols cause neurogenic defects in Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. eLife 2022; 11:e67141. [PMID: 36111785 PMCID: PMC9519149 DOI: 10.7554/elife.67141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Defective 3β-hydroxysterol-Δ7 -reductase (DHCR7) in the developmental disorder, Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS), results in a deficiency in cholesterol and accumulation of its precursor, 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC). Here, we show that loss of DHCR7 causes accumulation of 7-DHC-derived oxysterol metabolites, premature neurogenesis from murine or human cortical neural precursors, and depletion of the cortical precursor pool, both in vitro and in vivo. We found that a major oxysterol, 3β,5α-dihydroxycholest-7-en-6-one (DHCEO), mediates these effects by initiating crosstalk between glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and neurotrophin receptor kinase TrkB. Either loss of DHCR7 or direct exposure to DHCEO causes hyperactivation of GR and TrkB and their downstream MEK-ERK-C/EBP signaling pathway in cortical neural precursors. Moreover, direct inhibition of GR activation with an antagonist or inhibition of DHCEO accumulation with antioxidants rescues the premature neurogenesis phenotype caused by the loss of DHCR7. These results suggest that GR could be a new therapeutic target against the neurological defects observed in SLOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideaki Tomita
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
| | - Kelly M Hines
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
| | - Josi M Herron
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
| | - Amy Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
| | - David W Baggett
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
| | - Libin Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
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NMR-Based Metabolomics of Rat Hippocampus, Serum, and Urine in Two Models of Autism. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:5452-5475. [PMID: 35715683 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02912-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are increasingly diagnosed as developmental disabilities of unclear etiology related to genetic, epigenetic, or environmental factors. The diagnosis of ASD in children is based on the recognition of typical behavioral symptoms, while no reliable biomarkers are available. Rats in whom ASD-like symptoms are due to maternal administration of the teratogenic drugs valproate or thalidomide on critical day 11 of pregnancy are widely used models in autism research. The present studies, aimed at detecting changes in the levels of hydrophilic and hydrophobic metabolites, were carried out on 1-month-old rats belonging to the abovementioned two ASD models and on a control group. Analysis of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic metabolite levels gives a broader view of possible mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of autism. Hippocampal proton magnetic resonance (MRS) spectroscopy and ex vivo nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis of serum and urine samples were used. The results were analyzed using advanced statistical tests. Both the results of our present MRS studies of the hippocampus and of the NMR studies of body fluids in both ASD models, particularly from the THAL model, appeared to be consistent with previously published NMR results of hippocampal homogenates and data from the literature on autistic children. We detected symptoms of disturbances in neurotransmitter metabolism, energy deficit, and oxidative stress, as well as intestinal malfunction, which shed light on the pathogenesis of ASD and could be used for diagnostic purposes. These results confirm the usefulness of the noninvasive techniques used in ASD studies.
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Kaub PA, Sharp PC, Ranieri E, Fletcher JM. Isolated autism is not an indication for Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome biochemical testing. J Paediatr Child Health 2022; 58:630-635. [PMID: 34773316 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.15795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Several studies have demonstrated a high incidence of autistic spectrum features in individuals with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS). However, do these findings imply a converse relationship that has diagnostic utility? Is SLOS testing implicated when autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the only clinical indication? AIM To determine if there is any correlation with a clinical indication of ASD and a biochemical diagnosis of SLOS, based on historical test request and assay data. METHODS Six years (2008-2013) of clinical test requests for 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC) level were classified and summarised according to indication and final test result. RESULTS From the audit period, 988 valid test results from post-natal samples were identified. In plasma/serum, mean 7-DHC level was 264.7 μmol/L (normal range < 2.0) for confirmed SLOS cases. No tests performed due to an isolated clinical indication of ASD or where no clinical information was supplied were associated with 7-DHC levels diagnostic for SLOS. CONCLUSIONS Historical test data analysis supports the recommendation that autism/ASD as a single clinical feature is not an appropriate indication for SLOS (7-DHC) biochemical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A Kaub
- Genetics and Molecular Pathology, SA Pathology, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Peter C Sharp
- Genetics and Molecular Pathology, SA Pathology, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Enzo Ranieri
- Genetics and Molecular Pathology, SA Pathology, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Janice M Fletcher
- Genetics and Molecular Pathology, SA Pathology, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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10
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Tomasello DL, Kim JL, Khodour Y, McCammon JM, Mitalipova M, Jaenisch R, Futerman AH, Sive H. 16pdel lipid changes in iPSC-derived neurons and function of FAM57B in lipid metabolism and synaptogenesis. iScience 2022; 25:103551. [PMID: 34984324 PMCID: PMC8693007 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The complex 16p11.2 deletion syndrome (16pdel) is accompanied by neurological disorders, including epilepsy, autism spectrum disorder, and intellectual disability. We demonstrated that 16pdel iPSC differentiated neurons from affected people show augmented local field potential activity and altered ceramide-related lipid species relative to unaffected. FAM57B, a poorly characterized gene in the 16p11.2 interval, has emerged as a candidate tied to symptomatology. We found that FAM57B modulates ceramide synthase (CerS) activity, but is not a CerS per se. In FAM57B mutant human neuronal cells and zebrafish brain, composition and levels of sphingolipids and glycerolipids associated with cellular membranes are disrupted. Consistently, we observed aberrant plasma membrane architecture and synaptic protein mislocalization, which were accompanied by depressed brain and behavioral activity. Together, these results suggest that haploinsufficiency of FAM57B contributes to changes in neuronal activity and function in 16pdel syndrome through a crucial role for the gene in lipid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jiyoon L. Kim
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Yara Khodour
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | | | - Maya Mitalipova
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Rudolf Jaenisch
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Anthony H. Futerman
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Hazel Sive
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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11
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Slama S, Bahia W, Soltani I, Gaddour N, Ferchichi S. Risk factors in autism spectrum disorder: A Tunisian case-control study. Saudi J Biol Sci 2022; 29:2749-2755. [PMID: 35531179 PMCID: PMC9072901 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.12.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Senda Slama
- Research Unit of Clinical and Molecular Biology, UR17ES29, Department of clinic biology A, Faculty of Pharmacy of Monastir, University of Monastir, Tunisia
- Corresponding author at: Faculty of Pharmacy of Monastir, University of Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia.
| | - Wael Bahia
- Research Unit of Clinical and Molecular Biology, UR17ES29, Department of clinic biology A, Faculty of Pharmacy of Monastir, University of Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Ismael Soltani
- Research Unit of Clinical and Molecular Biology, UR17ES29, Department of clinic biology A, Faculty of Pharmacy of Monastir, University of Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Naoufel Gaddour
- Department of Psychiatry, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Salima Ferchichi
- Research Unit of Clinical and Molecular Biology, UR17ES29, Department of clinic biology A, Faculty of Pharmacy of Monastir, University of Monastir, Tunisia
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12
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Sterol and lipid analyses identifies hypolipidemia and apolipoprotein disorders in autism associated with adaptive functioning deficits. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:471. [PMID: 34504056 PMCID: PMC8429516 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01580-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
An improved understanding of sterol and lipid abnormalities in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) could lead to personalized treatment approaches. Toward this end, in blood, we identified reduced synthesis of cholesterol in families with ≥2 children with ASD participating with the Autism Genetic Resource Exchange (AGRE), as well as reduced amounts of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB), with 19.9% of the subjects presenting with apolipoprotein patterns similar to hypolipidemic clinical syndromes and 30% with either or both ApoA1 and ApoB less than the fifth centile. Subjects with levels less than the fifth centile of HDL or ApoA1 or ApoA1 + ApoB had lower adaptive functioning than other individuals with ASD, and hypocholesterolemic subjects had apolipoprotein deficits significantly divergent from either typically developing individuals participating in National Institutes of Health or the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III.
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13
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Colardo M, Martella N, Pensabene D, Siteni S, Di Bartolomeo S, Pallottini V, Segatto M. Neurotrophins as Key Regulators of Cell Metabolism: Implications for Cholesterol Homeostasis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5692. [PMID: 34073639 PMCID: PMC8198482 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophins constitute a family of growth factors initially characterized as predominant mediators of nervous system development, neuronal survival, regeneration and plasticity. Their biological activity is promoted by the binding of two different types of receptors, leading to the generation of multiple and variegated signaling cascades in the target cells. Increasing evidence indicates that neurotrophins are also emerging as crucial regulators of metabolic processes in both neuronal and non-neuronal cells. In this context, it has been reported that neurotrophins affect redox balance, autophagy, glucose homeostasis and energy expenditure. Additionally, the trophic support provided by these secreted factors may involve the regulation of cholesterol metabolism. In this review, we examine the neurotrophins' signaling pathways and their effects on metabolism by critically discussing the most up-to-date information. In particular, we gather experimental evidence demonstrating the impact of these growth factors on cholesterol metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayra Colardo
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, Italy; (M.C.); (N.M.); (D.P.); (S.D.B.)
| | - Noemi Martella
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, Italy; (M.C.); (N.M.); (D.P.); (S.D.B.)
| | - Daniele Pensabene
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, Italy; (M.C.); (N.M.); (D.P.); (S.D.B.)
| | - Silvia Siteni
- Department of Cell Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA;
| | - Sabrina Di Bartolomeo
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, Italy; (M.C.); (N.M.); (D.P.); (S.D.B.)
| | - Valentina Pallottini
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy;
- Neuroendocrinology Metabolism and Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCSS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Segatto
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, Italy; (M.C.); (N.M.); (D.P.); (S.D.B.)
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14
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Dionne O, Corbin F. An "Omic" Overview of Fragile X Syndrome. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:433. [PMID: 34068266 PMCID: PMC8153138 DOI: 10.3390/biology10050433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder associated with a wide range of cognitive, behavioral and medical problems. It arises from the silencing of the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) gene and, consequently, in the absence of its encoded protein, FMRP (fragile X mental retardation protein). FMRP is a ubiquitously expressed and multifunctional RNA-binding protein, primarily considered as a translational regulator. Pre-clinical studies of the past two decades have therefore focused on this function to relate FMRP's absence to the molecular mechanisms underlying FXS physiopathology. Based on these data, successful pharmacological strategies were developed to rescue fragile X phenotype in animal models. Unfortunately, these results did not translate into humans as clinical trials using same therapeutic approaches did not reach the expected outcomes. These failures highlight the need to put into perspective the different functions of FMRP in order to get a more comprehensive understanding of FXS pathophysiology. This work presents a review of FMRP's involvement on noteworthy molecular mechanisms that may ultimately contribute to various biochemical alterations composing the fragile X phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Dionne
- Department of Biochemistry and Functional Genomics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke and Centre de Recherche du CHUS, CIUSSS de l’Estrie-CHUS, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5H4, Canada;
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15
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Esposito CM, Buoli M, Ciappolino V, Agostoni C, Brambilla P. The Role of Cholesterol and Fatty Acids in the Etiology and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073550. [PMID: 33805572 PMCID: PMC8036564 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders whose pathogenesis seems to be related to an imbalance of excitatory and inhibitory synapses, which leads to disrupted connectivity during brain development. Among the various biomarkers that have been evaluated in the last years, metabolic factors represent a bridge between genetic vulnerability and environmental aspects. In particular, cholesterol homeostasis and circulating fatty acids seem to be involved in the pathogenesis of ASDs, both through the contribute in the stabilization of cell membranes and the modulation of inflammatory factors. The purpose of the present review is to summarize the available data about the role of cholesterol and fatty acids, mainly long-chain ones, in the onset of ASDs. A bibliographic research on the main databases was performed and 36 studies were included in our review. Most of the studies document a correlation between ASDs and hypocholesterolemia, while the results concerning circulating fatty acids are less univocal. Even though further studies are necessary to confirm the available data, the metabolic biomarkers open to new treatment options such as the modulation of the lipid pattern through the diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Maria Esposito
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via F. Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy; (C.M.E.); (M.B.); (V.C.); (P.B.)
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Buoli
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via F. Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy; (C.M.E.); (M.B.); (V.C.); (P.B.)
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Ciappolino
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via F. Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy; (C.M.E.); (M.B.); (V.C.); (P.B.)
| | - Carlo Agostoni
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Pediatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Paolo Brambilla
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via F. Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy; (C.M.E.); (M.B.); (V.C.); (P.B.)
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
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16
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Abstract
Epilepsy and autism frequently co-occur. Epilepsy confers an increased risk of autism and autism confers an increased risk of epilepsy. Specific epilepsy syndromes, intellectual disability, and female gender present a particular risk of autism in individuals with epilepsy. Epilepsy and autism are likely to share common etiologies, which predispose individuals to either or both conditions. Genetic factors, metabolic disorders, mitochondrial disorders, and immune dysfunction all can be implicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank M C Besag
- East London NHS Foundation Trust, 5-7 Rush Court, Bedford MK40 3JT, UK; University College London, London, UK; King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Michael J Vasey
- East London NHS Foundation Trust, 5-7 Rush Court, Bedford MK40 3JT, UK
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17
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El-Ansary A, Chirumbolo S, Bhat RS, Dadar M, Ibrahim EM, Bjørklund G. The Role of Lipidomics in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Mol Diagn Ther 2021; 24:31-48. [PMID: 31691195 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-019-00430-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental syndrome commonly diagnosed in early childhood; it is usually characterized by impairment in reciprocal communication and speech, repetitive behaviors, and social withdrawal with loss in communication skills. Its development may be affected by a variety of environmental and genetic factors. Trained physicians diagnose and evaluate the severity of ASD based on clinical evaluations of observed behaviors. As such, this approach is inevitably dependent on the expertise and subjective assessment of those administering the clinical evaluations. There is a need to identify objective biological markers associated with diagnosis or clinical severity of the disorder. Several important issues and concerns exist regarding the diagnostic competence of the many abnormal plasma metabolites produced in the different biochemical pathways evaluated in individuals with ASD. The search for high-performing bio-analytes to diagnose and follow-up ASD development is still a major target in medicine. Dysregulation in the oxidative stress response and proinflammatory processes are major etiological causes of ASD pathogenesis. Furthermore, dicarboxylic acid metabolites, cholesterol-related metabolites, phospholipid-related metabolites, and lipid transporters and mediators are impaired in different pathological conditions that have a role in the ASD etiology. A mechanism may exist by which pro-oxidant environmental stressors and abnormal metabolites regulate clinical manifestations and development of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afaf El-Ansary
- Central Laboratory, Female Centre for Scientific and Medical Studies, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Autism Research and Treatment Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,CONEM Saudi Autism Research Group, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Therapeutic Chemistry Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Salvatore Chirumbolo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,CONEM Scientific Secretary, Verona, Italy
| | - Ramesa Shafi Bhat
- Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maryam Dadar
- Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Eiman M Ibrahim
- Central Laboratory, Female Centre for Scientific and Medical Studies, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine (CONEM), Toften 24, 8610, Mo i Rana, Norway.
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18
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Lin PI, Moni MA, Gau SSF, Eapen V. Identifying Subgroups of Patients With Autism by Gene Expression Profiles Using Machine Learning Algorithms. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:637022. [PMID: 34054599 PMCID: PMC8149626 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.637022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The identification of subgroups of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may partially remedy the problems of clinical heterogeneity to facilitate the improvement of clinical management. The current study aims to use machine learning algorithms to analyze microarray data to identify clusters with relatively homogeneous clinical features. Methods: The whole-genome gene expression microarray data were used to predict communication quotient (SCQ) scores against all probes to select differential expression regions (DERs). Gene set enrichment analysis was performed for DERs with a fold-change >2 to identify hub pathways that play a role in the severity of social communication deficits inherent to ASD. We then used two machine learning methods, random forest classification (RF) and support vector machine (SVM), to identify two clusters using DERs. Finally, we evaluated how accurately the clusters predicted language impairment. Results: A total of 191 DERs were initially identified, and 54 of them with a fold-change >2 were selected for the pathway analysis. Cholesterol biosynthesis and metabolisms pathways appear to act as hubs that connect other trait-associated pathways to influence the severity of social communication deficits inherent to ASD. Both RF and SVM algorithms can yield a classification accuracy level >90% when all 191 DERs were analyzed. The ASD subtypes defined by the presence of language impairment, a strong indicator for prognosis, can be predicted by transcriptomic profiles associated with social communication deficits and cholesterol biosynthesis and metabolism. Conclusion: The results suggest that both RF and SVM are acceptable options for machine learning algorithms to identify AD subgroups characterized by clinical homogeneity related to prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping-I Lin
- School of Psychiatry, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,South Western Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - Mohammad Ali Moni
- School of Psychiatry, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Susan Shur-Fen Gau
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Valsamma Eapen
- School of Psychiatry, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,South Western Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
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19
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A multidimensional precision medicine approach identifies an autism subtype characterized by dyslipidemia. Nat Med 2020; 26:1375-1379. [PMID: 32778826 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-020-1007-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The promise of precision medicine lies in data diversity. More than the sheer size of biomedical data, it is the layering of multiple data modalities, offering complementary perspectives, that is thought to enable the identification of patient subgroups with shared pathophysiology. In the present study, we use autism to test this notion. By combining healthcare claims, electronic health records, familial whole-exome sequences and neurodevelopmental gene expression patterns, we identified a subgroup of patients with dyslipidemia-associated autism.
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20
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Kozhuhov A, Tfilin M, Turgeman G, Ornoy A, Yanai J, Abookasis D. Implementation of a six-around-one optical probe based on diffuse light spectroscopy for study of cerebral properties in a murine mouse model of autism spectrum disorder. APPLIED OPTICS 2020; 59:6809-6816. [PMID: 32788771 DOI: 10.1364/ao.396681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Light reflectance spectroscopy (LRS) is a multispectral technique, sensitive to the absorption and scattering properties of biological molecules in tissues. It is used as a noninvasive tool to extract quantitative physiological information from human tissues and organs. A near-infrared LRS based on a single optical probe was used to monitor changes in optical and hemodynamic parameters in a mouse model of autism. A murine model of autism induced by developmental exposure to valproic acid (VPA) was used. Since autism could be attributed to neuroanatomical changes, we hypothesize that these changes can be detected using the LRS because spectral properties depend on both molecular composition and structural changes. The fiber-optic probe in the setup consisted of seven small optical fibers: six fibers for illumination placed in a circular manner around a central single collection fiber. Overall, measurements demonstrate changes in diffused reflectance spectra, cerebral optical tissue properties (absorption and scattering), and chromophore levels. Furthermore, we were able to identify differences between male and female groups. Finally, the effectiveness of S-Adenosylmethionine as a drug therapy was studied and found to improve the hemodynamic outcome. For the first time, to the best of our knowledge, the LRS is utilized to study variations in brain parameters in the VPA autism model mice through an intact scalp.
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21
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Abstract
Epilepsy and autism frequently co-occur. Epilepsy confers an increased risk of autism and autism confers an increased risk of epilepsy. Specific epilepsy syndromes, intellectual disability, and female gender present a particular risk of autism in individuals with epilepsy. Epilepsy and autism are likely to share common etiologies, which predispose individuals to either or both conditions. Genetic factors, metabolic disorders, mitochondrial disorders, and immune dysfunction all can be implicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank M C Besag
- East London NHS Foundation Trust, 5-7 Rush Court, Bedford MK40 3JT, UK; University College London, London, UK; King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Michael J Vasey
- East London NHS Foundation Trust, 5-7 Rush Court, Bedford MK40 3JT, UK
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22
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Perez-Fernandez C, Morales-Navas M, Aguilera-Sáez LM, Abreu AC, Guardia-Escote L, Fernández I, Garrido-Cárdenas JA, Colomina MT, Giménez E, Sánchez-Santed F. Medium and long-term effects of low doses of Chlorpyrifos during the postnatal, preweaning developmental stage on sociability, dominance, gut microbiota and plasma metabolites. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 184:109341. [PMID: 32179266 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental pathology characterized by altered verbalizations, reduced social interaction behavior, and stereotypies. Environmental factors have been associated with its development. Some researchers have focused on pesticide exposure. Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is the most used Organophosphate. Previous developmental studies with CPF showed decreased, enhanced or no effect on social outcomes eminently in mice. The study of CPF exposure during preweaning stages on social behavior is sparse in mice and non-existent in rats. d stressors could be at the basis of ASD development, and around postnatal day 10 in the rat is equivalent to the human birthday in neurodevelopmental terms. We explored the effects of exposure to low doses (1mg/kg/mL/day) of CPF during this stage regarding: sociability, dominance gut microbiome and plasma metabolomic profile, since alterations in these systems have also been linked to ASD. There was a modest influence of CPF on social behavior in adulthood, with null effects during adolescence. Dominance and hierarchical status were not affected by exposure. Dominance status explained the significant reduction in reaction to social novelty observed on the sociability test. CPF induced a significant gut microbiome dysbiosis and triggered a hyperlipidemic, hypoglycemic/hypogluconeogenesis and a general altered cell energy production in females. These behavioral results in rats extend and complement previous studies with mice and show novel influences on gut metagenomics and plasma lipid profile and metabolomics, but do not stablish a relation between the exposure to CPF and the ASD phenotype. The effects of dominance status on reaction to social novelty have an important methodological meaning for future research on sociability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristian Perez-Fernandez
- Department of Psychology and Health Research Center, University of Almería, Ctra. Sacramento, s/n, 04120, Almería, Spain.
| | - Miguel Morales-Navas
- Department of Psychology and Health Research Center, University of Almería, Ctra. Sacramento, s/n, 04120, Almería, Spain.
| | - Luis Manuel Aguilera-Sáez
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, Research Centre CIAIMBITAL, University of Almería, Ctra. Sacramento, s/n, 04120, Almería, Spain.
| | - Ana Cristina Abreu
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, Research Centre CIAIMBITAL, University of Almería, Ctra. Sacramento, s/n, 04120, Almería, Spain.
| | - Laia Guardia-Escote
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology and Research in Neurobehavior and Health (NEUROLAB), Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43007, C/ Macel.lí Domingo 1, Tarragona, Spain.
| | - Ignacio Fernández
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, Research Centre CIAIMBITAL, University of Almería, Ctra. Sacramento, s/n, 04120, Almería, Spain.
| | | | - María Teresa Colomina
- Department of Psychology and Research Center for Behavior Assessment (CRAMC), Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43007, C/ Carretera de Valls, s/n, Tarragona, Spain.
| | - Estela Giménez
- Department of Biology and Geology, University of Almería, Ctra. Sacramento, s/n, 04120, Almería, Spain.
| | - Fernando Sánchez-Santed
- Department of Psychology and Health Research Center, University of Almería, Ctra. Sacramento, s/n, 04120, Almería, Spain.
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23
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Wages PA, Joshi P, Tallman KA, Kim HYH, Bowman AB, Porter NA. Screening ToxCast™ for Chemicals That Affect Cholesterol Biosynthesis: Studies in Cell Culture and Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Neuroprogenitors. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2020; 128:17014. [PMID: 31985273 PMCID: PMC7015578 DOI: 10.1289/ehp5053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Changes in cholesterol metabolism are common hallmarks of neurodevelopmental pathologies. A diverse array of genetic disorders of cholesterol metabolism support this claim as do multiple lines of research that demonstrate chemical inhibition of cholesterol biosynthesis compromises neurodevelopment. Recent work has revealed that a number of commonly used pharmaceuticals induce changes in cholesterol metabolism that are similar to changes induced by genetic disorders with devastating neurodevelopmental deficiencies. OBJECTIVES We tested the hypothesis that common environmental toxicants may also impair cholesterol metabolism and thereby possibly contribute to neurodevelopmental toxicity. METHODS Using high-throughput screening with a targeted lipidomic analysis and the mouse neuroblastoma cell line, Neuro-2a, the ToxCast™ chemical library was screened for compounds that impact sterol metabolism. Validation of chemical effects was conducted by assessing cholesterol biosynthesis in human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived neuroprogenitors using an isotopically labeled cholesterol precursor and by monitoring product formation with UPLC-MS/MS. RESULTS Twenty-nine compounds were identified as validated lead-hits, and four were prioritized for further study (endosulfan sulfate, tributyltin chloride, fenpropimorph, and spiroxamine). All four compounds were validated to cause hypocholesterolemia in Neuro-2a cells. The morpholine-like fungicides, fenpropimorph and spiroxamine, mirrored their Neuro-2a activity in four immortalized human cell lines and in a human neuroprogenitor model derived from hiPSCs, but endosulfan sulfate and tributyltin chloride did not. CONCLUSIONS These data reveal the existence of environmental compounds that interrupt cholesterol biosynthesis and that methodologically hiPSC neuroprogenitor cells provide a particularly sensitive system to monitor the effect of small molecules on de novo cholesterol formation. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP5053.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip A. Wages
- Department of Chemistry and Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Piyush Joshi
- Departments of Pediatrics, Neurology and Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Keri A. Tallman
- Department of Chemistry and Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Hye-Young H. Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Aaron B. Bowman
- Departments of Pediatrics, Neurology and Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Ned A. Porter
- Department of Chemistry and Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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24
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ElObeid T, Moawad J, Shi Z. Importance of Nutrition Intervention in Autistic Patients. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 24:535-545. [PMID: 32006372 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-30402-7_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Along with the issues of inflated social and financial burden associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), specific treatment for this disorder has also not been developed. Having a thorough look at previous trials done to treat autism, we find that nutrition intervention had been used frequently as a complementary form of therapy. Indeed, an early diagnosis of nutrition deficiency and metabolic disorders done concomitantly with accurate therapeutic interventions can be a cornerstone for improving cognitive and behavioral aptitudes of people with autism. Several studies have showed that increasing the intake of specific nutrients can reduce the symptoms and comorbidities associated with autism. Consequently, nutrition intervention and appropriate supplementation can be crucial in managing and treating autism. This paper will discuss recent literature on the significance of metabolic aspects in autistic disorder and highlight the influence of nutrition intervention on the symptoms of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahra ElObeid
- Human Nutrition Department, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Joyce Moawad
- Human Nutrition Department, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Zumin Shi
- Human Nutrition Department, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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25
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Panjwani AA, Ji Y, Fahey JW, Palmer A, Wang G, Hong X, Zuckerman B, Wang X. Maternal Dyslipidemia, Plasma Branched-Chain Amino Acids, and the Risk of Child Autism Spectrum Disorder: Evidence of Sex Difference. J Autism Dev Disord 2019; 50:540-550. [PMID: 31686281 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04264-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In contrast to the well-observed associations between obesity, diabetes, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the roles of maternal dyslipidemia and sex disparity in ASD have not been well-studied. We examined the joint associations of maternal plasma cholesterols, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and child sex on child ASD risk. We analyzed data from 756 mother-infant pairs (86 ASD) from the Boston Birth Cohort. Maternal plasma cholesterols and BCAAs were measured in samples collected 24-72 h postpartum. We found that in this urban, low-income prospective birth cohort, low maternal high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), above-median maternal plasma BCAA concentrations, and male sex additively or synergistically increased risk of ASD. Additional studies are necessary to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita A Panjwani
- Department of International Health, Center for Human Nutrition, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yuelong Ji
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Center on the Early Life Origins of Disease, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, E4132, Baltimore, MD, 21205-2179, USA
| | - Jed W Fahey
- Department of International Health, Center for Human Nutrition, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Cullman Chemoprotection Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Amanda Palmer
- Department of International Health, Center for Human Nutrition, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Guoying Wang
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Center on the Early Life Origins of Disease, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, E4132, Baltimore, MD, 21205-2179, USA
| | - Xiumei Hong
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Center on the Early Life Origins of Disease, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, E4132, Baltimore, MD, 21205-2179, USA
| | - Barry Zuckerman
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xiaobin Wang
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Center on the Early Life Origins of Disease, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, E4132, Baltimore, MD, 21205-2179, USA. .,Division of General Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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26
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Glinton KE, Elsea SH. Untargeted Metabolomics for Autism Spectrum Disorders: Current Status and Future Directions. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:647. [PMID: 31551836 PMCID: PMC6746843 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of neurodevelopment disorders characterized by childhood onset deficits in social communication and interaction. Although the exact etiology of most cases of ASDs is unknown, a portion has been proposed to be associated with various metabolic abnormalities including mitochondrial dysfunction, disorders of cholesterol metabolism, and folate abnormalities. Targeted biochemical testing like plasma amino acid and acylcarnitine profiles have demonstrated limited utility in helping to diagnose and manage such patients. Untargeted metabolomics has emerged, however, as a promising tool in screening for underlying biochemical abnormalities and managing treatment and as a means of investigating possible novel biomarkers for the disorder. Here, we review the principles and methodology behind untargeted metabolomics, recent pilot studies utilizing this technology, and areas in which it may be integrated into the care of children with this disorder in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin E. Glinton
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sarah H. Elsea
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
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27
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Allen LB, Genaro-Mattos TC, Porter NA, Mirnics K, Korade Z. Desmosterolosis and desmosterol homeostasis in the developing mouse brain. J Inherit Metab Dis 2019; 42:934-943. [PMID: 30891795 PMCID: PMC6739189 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Cholesterol serves as a building material for cellular membranes and plays an important role in cellular metabolism. The brain relies on its own cholesterol biosynthesis, which starts during embryonic development. Cholesterol is synthesized from two immediate precursors, desmosterol and 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC). Mutations in the DHCR24 enzyme, which converts desmosterol into cholesterol, lead to desmosterolosis, an autosomal recessive developmental disorder. In this study, we assessed the brain content of desmosterol, 7-DHC, and cholesterol from development to adulthood, and analyzed the biochemical, molecular, and anatomical consequences of Dhcr24 mutations on the sterol profile in a mouse model of desmosterolosis and heterozygous Dhcr24+/- carriers. Our HPLC-MS/MS studies revealed that by P0 desmosterol almost entirely replaced cholesterol in the Dhcr24-KO brain. The greatly elevated desmosterol levels were also present in the Dhcr24-Het brains irrespective of maternal genotype, persisting into adulthood. Furthermore, Dhcr24-KO mice brains showed complex changes in expression of lipid and sterol transcripts, nuclear receptors, and synaptic plasticity transcripts. Cultured Dhcr24-KO neurons showed increased arborization, which was also present in the Dhcr24-KO mouse brains. Finally, we observed a shared pathophysiological mechanism between the mouse models of desmosterolosis and Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (a genetic disorder of conversion of 7-DHC to cholesterol).
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke B. Allen
- Department of Pediatrics, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Thiago C. Genaro-Mattos
- Munroe-Meyer Institute, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Ned A. Porter
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology and Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN
| | - Károly Mirnics
- Munroe-Meyer Institute, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Zeljka Korade
- Department of Pediatrics, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
- Corresponding Author: Zeljka Korade, DVM, PhD, ; 982165 Nebraska Medicine Center, Omaha, 68198-2165
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28
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Benachenhou S, Etcheverry A, Galarneau L, Dubé J, Çaku A. Implication of hypocholesterolemia in autism spectrum disorder and its associated comorbidities: A retrospective case-control study. Autism Res 2019; 12:1860-1869. [PMID: 31385649 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been associated with low cholesterol levels in a limited number of studies. However, the prevalence of hypocholesterolemia as well as the degree of association with ASD remains to be elucidated. We therefore sought to investigate the lipid profiles of a group of French-Canadian ASD individuals. The medical records of 79 ASD individuals and 79 age and gender-matched healthy controls were retrospectively reviewed. The fasting lipid profiles including total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein were extracted for individuals of both groups along with the following clinical data: anthropometric measurements, medication use and associated disorders. Lipid parameters were compared to age and gender-based normative population and categorized in centile groups. The prevalence of hypocholesterolemia was revealed to be more than threefold higher in ASD individuals as compared to the general population (23%; P = 0.005). The 25th centile was determined as a potential TC threshold that could best predict the ASD (odds ratio [OR] = 3.04; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.58-6.65; P < 0.001). This study identified specific ASD comorbidities associated with hypocholesterolemia: TC levels below the 10th centile were associated with a higher rate of ASD-associated intellectual disability (OR = 3.33; 95% CI: 1.26-8.00) and anxiety/depression (OR = 4.74; 95% CI: 1.40-15.73). Overall, these results support a potential association between hypocholesterolemia and ASD occurrence. Application of this study to larger populations is urging to provide more extensive data that may further elucidate the association between hypocholesterolemia and ASD. Autism Res 2019, 12: 1860-1869. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: Association of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with abnormally low levels of cholesterol (hypocholesterolemia) has been documented before. These studies were incomplete, and the conclusion remains speculative. Here, we reviewed the medical records of 79 French-Canadian ASD individuals and compared their total cholesterol (TC) levels to healthy individuals matched for age and gender. We observed four times more hypocholesterolemia in ASD than in the general population. Furthermore, low TC in ASD was associated with higher rates of ASD-associated intellectual disability and anxiety/depression. Our results support an association between hypocholesterolemia and ASD and open novel opportunities for the diagnosis and treatment of specific forms of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sérine Benachenhou
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universite de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Antoine Etcheverry
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universite de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Luc Galarneau
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universite de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean Dubé
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universite de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Artuela Çaku
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universite de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
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29
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Oxysterols as a biomarker in diseases. Clin Chim Acta 2019; 491:103-113. [PMID: 30685361 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2019.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 01/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cholesterol is one of the most important chemical substances as a structural element in human cells, and it is very susceptible to oxidation reactions that form oxysterol. Oxysterols exhibit almost the exact structure as cholesterol and a cholesterol precursor (7-dehydrocholesterol) with an additional hydroxyl, epoxy or ketone moiety. The oxidation reaction is performed via an enzymatic or non-enzymatic mechanism. The wide array of enzymatic oxysterols encountered in the human body varies in origin and function. Oxysterols establish a concentration equilibrium in human body fluids. Disease may alter the equilibrium, and oxysterols may be used as a diagnostic tool. The current review presents the possibility of using non-enzymatic oxysterols and disturbances in enzymatic oxysterol equilibrium in the human body as a potential biomarker for diagnosing and/or monitoring of the progression of various diseases.
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30
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Possible Metabolic Alterations among Autistic Male Children: Clinical and Biochemical Approaches. J Mol Neurosci 2019; 67:204-216. [PMID: 30600432 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-018-1225-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The present cross-sectional, hospital-based study was carried out on 146 Egyptian male children, 73 males with autism who were comparable with another 73 healthy age- and sex-matched children, recruited from the outpatients' psychiatric clinics of the Neuropsychiatric and Pediatric Departments of South Valley and Assiut University Hospitals, Egypt. Neuropsychological assessments of autistic males were done using CARS, short sensory profile and intelligent quotients. Serum markers of mitochondrial dysfunction (lactate, pyruvate, and lactate to pyruvate ratio, creatine kinase (CK), L-carnitine, ammonia, lactate dehydrogenase, pyruvate kinase, alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase), oxidative stress and blood levels of heavy metals (mercury, lead and aluminium) were measured. Serum cholesterol, cortisol, free testosterone, estradiol, dehydroepiandrostenedione, adenosine deaminase and Helicobacter pylori antigen in stool were also performed. There was evidence of mitochondrial dysfunction among autistic children. Additionally, there were significantly lower serum total cholesterol, cortisol and estradiol as well as significantly higher dehydroepiandrostenedione (DHEA) and free testosterone (p < 0.05 for all markers). Twenty-eight (38%) cases were positive for H. pylori antigen in their stool with significant higher serum ammonia and lower adenosine deaminase than in H. pylori-negative autistic children. Mitochondrial dysfunction, H. pylori infection and low cholesterol were prevalent among autistic male children, which should be targeted during autism management.
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31
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Cariou B, Challet-Bouju G, Bernard C, Marrec M, Hardouin JB, Authier C, Bach-Ngohou K, Leux C, Pichelin M, Grall-Bronnec M. Prevalence of hypobetalipoproteinemia and related psychiatric characteristics in a psychiatric population: results from the retrospective HYPOPSY Study. Lipids Health Dis 2018; 17:249. [PMID: 30400945 PMCID: PMC6220563 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-018-0892-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypobetalipoproteinemia (HBL) is defined by plasma concentrations of LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) lower than the fifth percentile for age and sex. Several psychiatric symptoms have been reported in association with HBL. The objective was to assess the prevalence of primary HBL in patients hospitalized in a psychiatric population and to better characterize the related psychiatric disorders. METHODS HYPOPSY is a retrospective study including 839 adults hospitalized in the Psychiatry department of Nantes University Hospital during the year 2014, except patients with eating disorders. The prevalence of primary HBL was defined by a plasma LDL-C concentration ≤ 50 mg/dL. Secondary causes of HBL were excluded after a review of medical records (n=2). Related-psychiatric disorders in patients with and without HBL were recorded using the ICD-10 classification. RESULTS Twenty cases of primary HBL (mean [SD] LDL-C: 42 [7] mg/dL) were diagnosed, leading to a prevalence of 2.39%. In comparison, the prevalence of HBL in a healthy control population was 0.57%. Psychiatric patients with HBL were characterized by a higher frequency of schizophrenia (p=0.044), hetero-aggression (p=0.015) and pervasive and specific developmental disorders (including autism) (p=0.011). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of HBL is 4-fold higher in psychiatric than in general population. More specifically, some statistically significant associations were found between low LDL-C concentrations and schizophrenia, autism and hetero-aggression. These data reinforce the hypothesis for a link between genetically low LDL-C levels and psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertrand Cariou
- CHU Nantes, l'institut du thorax, INSERM, CNRS, UNIV Nantes, CHU Nantes, F-44000, Nantes, France. .,CHU de Nantes, CIC Endocrino-Nutrition INSERM UMR 1413, l'nstitut du thorax, F-44000, Nantes, France. .,Clinique d'Endocrinologie, Maladies Métaboliques et Nutrition, Hôpital Guillaume & René Laennec, Boulevard Jacques Monod, Saint-Herblain, 44093, Nantes Cedex 1, France.
| | - Gaëlle Challet-Bouju
- CHU Nantes, Service d'Addictologie et de Psychiatrie, F-44000, Nantes, France.,Université de Nantes, Université de Tours, Inserm UMR 1246-SPHERE, F-44000, Nantes, France
| | - Céline Bernard
- Clinique d'Endocrinologie, Maladies Métaboliques et Nutrition, Hôpital Guillaume & René Laennec, Boulevard Jacques Monod, Saint-Herblain, 44093, Nantes Cedex 1, France.,Present address: CHU Sud Reunion, Site Saint-Pierre, Avenue président F Mitterrand, BP 350, 97448 ST, Pierre Cedex, La Reunion, France
| | - Marie Marrec
- CHU de Nantes, CIC Endocrino-Nutrition INSERM UMR 1413, l'nstitut du thorax, F-44000, Nantes, France
| | - Jean-Benoit Hardouin
- Université de Nantes, Université de Tours, Inserm UMR 1246-SPHERE, F-44000, Nantes, France.,CHU Nantes, DRCi, Plateforme de Méthodologie et de Biostatistique, F-44000, Nantes, France
| | - Charlotte Authier
- Centre d'examens de santé de la Caisse Primaire d'Assurance Maladie de Loire-Atlantique, St Nazaire, F-44600, Saint-Nazaire, France
| | - Kalyane Bach-Ngohou
- CHU Nantes, Service de Biochimie, F-44000, Nantes, France.,INSERM1235, Université de Nantes, Institut des Maladies de l'Appareil Digestif, F-44000, Nantes, France
| | - Christophe Leux
- CHU Nantes, Service d'Information Médicale, F-44000, Nantes, France
| | - Matthieu Pichelin
- CHU Nantes, l'institut du thorax, INSERM, CNRS, UNIV Nantes, CHU Nantes, F-44000, Nantes, France.,CHU de Nantes, CIC Endocrino-Nutrition INSERM UMR 1413, l'nstitut du thorax, F-44000, Nantes, France.,Clinique d'Endocrinologie, Maladies Métaboliques et Nutrition, Hôpital Guillaume & René Laennec, Boulevard Jacques Monod, Saint-Herblain, 44093, Nantes Cedex 1, France
| | - Marie Grall-Bronnec
- CHU Nantes, Service d'Addictologie et de Psychiatrie, F-44000, Nantes, France. .,Université de Nantes, Université de Tours, Inserm UMR 1246-SPHERE, F-44000, Nantes, France.
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32
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Hu CC, Sun YJ, Liu CX, Zhou BR, Li CY, Xu Q, Xu X. NSDHL-containing duplication at Xq28 in a male patient with autism spectrum disorder: a case report. BMC MEDICAL GENETICS 2018; 19:192. [PMID: 30376821 PMCID: PMC6208182 DOI: 10.1186/s12881-018-0705-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder in which genetics plays a key aetiological role. The gene encoding NAD(P)H steroid dehydrogenase-like protein (NSDHL) is expressed in developing cortical neurons and glia, and its mutation may result in intellectual disability or congenital hemidysplasia. CASE PRESENTATION An 8-year-old boy presented with a 260-kb NSDHL-containing duplication at Xq28 (151,868,909 - 152,129,300) inherited from his mother. His clinical features included defects in social communication and interaction, restricted interests, attention deficit, impulsive behaviour, minor facial anomalies and serum free fatty acid abnormality. CONCLUSION This is the first report of an ASD patient with a related NSDHL-containing duplication at Xq28. Further studies and case reports are required for genetic research to demonstrate that duplication as well as mutation can cause neurodevelopmental diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Chun Hu
- Department of Child Healthcare, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Yun-Jun Sun
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
| | - Chun-Xue Liu
- Department of Child Healthcare, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Bing-Rui Zhou
- Department of Child Healthcare, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Chun-Yang Li
- Department of Child Healthcare, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Qiong Xu
- Department of Child Healthcare, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Xiu Xu
- Department of Child Healthcare, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China.
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33
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Grayaa S, Zerbinati C, Messedi M, HadjKacem I, Chtourou M, Ben Touhemi D, Naifar M, Ayadi H, Ayedi F, Iuliano L. Plasma oxysterol profiling in children reveals 24-hydroxycholesterol as a potential marker for Autism Spectrum Disorders. Biochimie 2018; 153:80-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2018.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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34
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Ugur C, Uneri OS, Goker Z, Sekmen E, Aydemir H, Solmaz E. The assessment of serum lipid profiles of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Psychiatry Res 2018; 264:231-235. [PMID: 29655116 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2018.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Revised: 03/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders in children and the pathophysiology remains obscure. Some studies show that lipid imbalances are associated with ADHD etiology. We studied the association of serum total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglyceride (TG) levels in ADHD. We examined 88 children aged 8-12 years who were diagnosed with ADHD and 88 healthy children. The exclusion criteria were as follows: obesity, any psychotropic use in the last 3 months, presence of a chronic disease and/or malignancy, history of medically treated lipid metabolism disease in family members, intelligence quotient (IQ) < 70, and comorbidities, with the exception of oppositional defiant disorder. The sample was evaluated using a semi-structured clinical assessment interview and Conners' rating scales. Despite controlling for age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) variables, the total cholesterol and LDL levels were significantly higher in the ADHD group than the levels of healthy controls, whereas the TG and HDL cholesterol levels were similar among groups. Conners' rating scales, reflecting symptom severity, and total cholesterol, TG, HDL, and LDL levels of the ADHD group were not correlated. The study results support the difference in serum lipid and lipoprotein profiles of children with ADHD compared with healthy controls. This difference is thought to be related with changes in oxidant/antioxidant balance states in ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cagatay Ugur
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, University of Health Sciences, Ankara Child Health and Diseases Hematology Oncology Training and Research Hospital, Sehit Omer Halisdemir Caddesi, Kurtdereli Sokak, No: 10 06100, Diskapi/Ankara Turkey.
| | - Ozden Sukran Uneri
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, University of Health Sciences, Ankara Child Health and Diseases Hematology Oncology Training and Research Hospital, Sehit Omer Halisdemir Caddesi, Kurtdereli Sokak, No: 10 06100, Diskapi/Ankara Turkey
| | - Zeynep Goker
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, University of Health Sciences, Ankara Child Health and Diseases Hematology Oncology Training and Research Hospital, Sehit Omer Halisdemir Caddesi, Kurtdereli Sokak, No: 10 06100, Diskapi/Ankara Turkey
| | - Ebru Sekmen
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, University of Health Sciences, Ankara Child Health and Diseases Hematology Oncology Training and Research Hospital, Sehit Omer Halisdemir Caddesi, Kurtdereli Sokak, No: 10 06100, Diskapi/Ankara Turkey
| | - Hilal Aydemir
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, University of Health Sciences, Ankara Child Health and Diseases Hematology Oncology Training and Research Hospital, Sehit Omer Halisdemir Caddesi, Kurtdereli Sokak, No: 10 06100, Diskapi/Ankara Turkey
| | - Esra Solmaz
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Ankara University Medical School, Ankara Turkey
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Reilly J, Gallagher L, Chen JL, Leader G, Shen S. Bio-collections in autism research. Mol Autism 2017; 8:34. [PMID: 28702161 PMCID: PMC5504648 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-017-0154-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of complex neurodevelopmental disorders with diverse clinical manifestations and symptoms. In the last 10 years, there have been significant advances in understanding the genetic basis for ASD, critically supported through the establishment of ASD bio-collections and application in research. Here, we summarise a selection of major ASD bio-collections and their associated findings. Collectively, these include mapping ASD candidate genes, assessing the nature and frequency of gene mutations and their association with ASD clinical subgroups, insights into related molecular pathways such as the synapses, chromatin remodelling, transcription and ASD-related brain regions. We also briefly review emerging studies on the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to potentially model ASD in culture. These provide deeper insight into ASD progression during development and could generate human cell models for drug screening. Finally, we provide perspectives concerning the utilities of ASD bio-collections and limitations, and highlight considerations in setting up a new bio-collection for ASD research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Reilly
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, School of Medicine, BioMedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland (NUI), Galway, Ireland
| | - Louise Gallagher
- Trinity Translational Medicine Institute and Department of Psychiatry, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St. James Hospital Street, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - June L Chen
- Department of Special Education, Faculty of Education, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062 China
| | - Geraldine Leader
- Irish Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Research (ICAN), Department of Psychology, National University of Ireland Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Sanbing Shen
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, School of Medicine, BioMedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland (NUI), Galway, Ireland
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Gillberg C, Fernell E, Kočovská E, Minnis H, Bourgeron T, Thompson L, Allely CS. The role of cholesterol metabolism and various steroid abnormalities in autism spectrum disorders: A hypothesis paper. Autism Res 2017; 10:1022-1044. [PMID: 28401679 PMCID: PMC5485071 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2016] [Revised: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Based on evidence from the relevant research literature, we present a hypothesis that there may be a link between cholesterol, vitamin D, and steroid hormones which subsequently impacts on the development of at least some of the "autisms" [Coleman & Gillberg]. Our hypothesis, driven by the peer reviewed literature, posits that there may be links between cholesterol metabolism, which we will refer to as "steroid metabolism" and findings of steroid abnormalities of various kinds (cortisol, testosterone, estrogens, progesterone, vitamin D) in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Further research investigating these potential links is warranted to further our understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying ASD. Autism Res 2017. © 2017 The Authors Autism Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Autism Research. Autism Res 2017, 10: 1022-1044. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Gillberg
- Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
| | - Elisabeth Fernell
- Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
| | - Eva Kočovská
- Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
- Barts and London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, Blizard Institute58 Turner StreetE1 2ABLondon
| | - Helen Minnis
- Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, RHSC YorkhillGlasgowScotlandG3 8SJUnited Kingdom
| | - Thomas Bourgeron
- Institut Pasteur, Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions UnitParisFrance
- CNRS UMR 3571: Genes, Synapses and Cognition, Institut PasteurParisFrance
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris CitéHuman Genetics and Cognitive FunctionsParisFrance
- FondaMental FoundationCréteilFrance
| | - Lucy Thompson
- Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, RHSC YorkhillGlasgowScotlandG3 8SJUnited Kingdom
| | - Clare S. Allely
- Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
- School of Health SciencesUniversity of SalfordManchesterEngland
- Honorary Research Fellow in the College of MedicalVeterinary and Life Sciences affiliated to the Institute of Health and Wellbeing at the University of Glasgow
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37
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Sharif NF, Korade Z, Porter NA, Harrison FE. Oxidative stress, serotonergic changes and decreased ultrasonic vocalizations in a mouse model of Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2017; 16:619-626. [PMID: 28220990 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Revised: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome is an inherited monogenic disorder in which mutations to the 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC) reductase (Dhcr7) gene lead to deficits in cholesterol synthesis. As a result, many patients suffer from gross physiological and neurological deficits. The purpose of this study was to identify a potential abnormal behavioral phenotype in a compound mutant mouse model for Smith-Lemli-Opitz disease (Dhcr7 Δ3-5/T93M ) to further validate the model and to provide potential targets for future therapeutic interventions. We also sought to identify some of the underlying changes in brain function that may be responsible for behavioral differences among groups. The Dhcr7 compound mutant mice were smaller than their single mutant littermates. Both single and compound heterozygous mice made fewer ultrasonic vocalizations when separated from the dam, which may suggest a communication deficit in these animals. Striking increases of the highly oxidizable 7-DHC were observed in the compound mutant mice. 7-Dehydrocholesterol is the precursor to cholesterol and builds up because of decreased function of the mutated Dhcr7 enzyme. Additionally, several differences were noted in the serotonergic system including increased expression of the serotonin transporter and increased uptake of serotonin by isolated synaptosomes. We propose that changes to the oxidative environment during development can have a significant impact on the development of serotonergic function and that this contributes to behavioral differences observed in the mutant mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- N F Sharif
- Neuroscience Program, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Z Korade
- Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.,Present address: Department of Pediatrics, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - N A Porter
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - F E Harrison
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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38
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Molecular Basis of Oxytocin Receptor Signalling in the Brain: What We Know and What We Need to Know. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2017; 35:3-29. [PMID: 28812263 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2017_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT), a hypothalamic neuropeptide involved in regulating the social behaviour of all vertebrates, has been proposed as a treatment for a number of neuropsychiatric disorders characterised by deficits in the social domain. Over the last few decades, advances focused on understanding the social effects of OT and its role in physiological conditions and brain diseases, but much less has been done to clarify the molecular cascade of events involved in mediating such effects and in particular the cellular and molecular pharmacology of OT and its target receptor (OTR) in neuronal and glial cells.The entity and persistence of OT activity in the brain is closely related to the expression and regulation of the OTR expressed on the cell surface, which transmits the signal intracellularly and permits OT to affect cell function. Understanding the various signalling mechanisms mediating OTR-induced cell responses is crucial to determine the different responses in different cells and brain regions, and the success of OT and OT-derived analogues in the treatment of neurodevelopmental and psychiatric diseases depends on how well we can control such responses. In this review, we will consider the most important aspects of OT/OTR signalling by focusing on the molecular events involved in OT binding and coupling, on the main signalling pathways activated by the OTR in neuronal cells and on intracellular and plasma membrane OTR trafficking, all of which contribute to the quantitative and qualitative features of OT responses in the brain.
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Cartocci V, Servadio M, Trezza V, Pallottini V. Can Cholesterol Metabolism Modulation Affect Brain Function and Behavior? J Cell Physiol 2016; 232:281-286. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Cartocci
- Department of Science; Biomedical and Biotechnology Section; University Roma Tre; Rome Italy
| | - Michela Servadio
- Department of Science; Biomedical and Biotechnology Section; University Roma Tre; Rome Italy
| | - Viviana Trezza
- Department of Science; Biomedical and Biotechnology Section; University Roma Tre; Rome Italy
| | - Valentina Pallottini
- Department of Science; Biomedical and Biotechnology Section; University Roma Tre; Rome Italy
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40
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Frye RE, Rossignol DA. Identification and Treatment of Pathophysiological Comorbidities of Autism Spectrum Disorder to Achieve Optimal Outcomes. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS-PEDIATRICS 2016; 10:43-56. [PMID: 27330338 PMCID: PMC4910649 DOI: 10.4137/cmped.s38337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2016] [Revised: 05/15/2016] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite the fact that the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) continues to rise, no effective medical treatments have become standard of care. In this paper we review some of the pathophysiological abnormalities associated with ASD and their potential associated treatments. Overall, there is evidence for some children with ASD being affected by seizure and epilepsy, neurotransmitter dysfunction, sleep disorders, metabolic abnormalities, including abnormalities in folate, cobalamin, tetrahydrobiopterin, carnitine, redox and mitochondrial metabolism, and immune and gastrointestinal disorders. Although evidence for an association between these pathophysiological abnormalities and ASD exists, the exact relationship to the etiology of ASD and its associated symptoms remains to be further defined in many cases. Despite these limitations, treatments targeting some of these pathophysiological abnormalities have been studied in some cases with high-quality studies, whereas treatments for other pathophysiological abnormalities have not been well studied in many cases. There are some areas of more promising treatments specific for ASD including neurotransmitter abnormalities, particularly imbalances in glutamate and acetylcholine, sleep onset disorder (with behavioral therapy and melatonin), and metabolic abnormalities in folate, cobalamin, tetrahydrobiopterin, carnitine, and redox pathways. There is some evidence for treatments of epilepsy and seizures, mitochondrial and immune disorders, and gastrointestinal abnormalities, particularly imbalances in the enteric microbiome, but further clinical studies are needed in these areas to better define treatments specific to children with ASD. Clearly, there are some promising areas of ASD research that could lead to novel treatments that could become standard of care in the future, but more research is needed to better define subgroups of children with ASD who are affected by specific pathophysiological abnormalities and the optimal treatments for these abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Frye
- Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, USA.; Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
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41
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Kim KC, Gonzales EL, Lázaro MT, Choi CS, Bahn GH, Yoo HJ, Shin CY. Clinical and Neurobiological Relevance of Current Animal Models of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2016; 24:207-43. [PMID: 27133257 PMCID: PMC4859786 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2016.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social and communication impairments, as well as repetitive and restrictive behaviors. The phenotypic heterogeneity of ASD has made it overwhelmingly difficult to determine the exact etiology and pathophysiology underlying the core symptoms, which are often accompanied by comorbidities such as hyperactivity, seizures, and sensorimotor abnormalities. To our benefit, the advent of animal models has allowed us to assess and test diverse risk factors of ASD, both genetic and environmental, and measure their contribution to the manifestation of autistic symptoms. At a broader scale, rodent models have helped consolidate molecular pathways and unify the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying each one of the various etiologies. This approach will potentially enable the stratification of ASD into clinical, molecular, and neurophenotypic subgroups, further proving their translational utility. It is henceforth paramount to establish a common ground of mechanistic theories from complementing results in preclinical research. In this review, we cluster the ASD animal models into lesion and genetic models and further classify them based on the corresponding environmental, epigenetic and genetic factors. Finally, we summarize the symptoms and neuropathological highlights for each model and make critical comparisons that elucidate their clinical and neurobiological relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki Chan Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.,Center for Neuroscience Research, SMART Institute of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Edson Luck Gonzales
- Center for Neuroscience Research, SMART Institute of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.,School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - María T Lázaro
- Program in Neurogenetics, Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Chang Soon Choi
- Center for Neuroscience Research, SMART Institute of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.,School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Geon Ho Bahn
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Jeong Yoo
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bungdang Hospital, Seongnam 13620, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan Young Shin
- Center for Neuroscience Research, SMART Institute of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.,School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
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42
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Exploiting aberrant mRNA expression in autism for gene discovery and diagnosis. Hum Genet 2016; 135:797-811. [DOI: 10.1007/s00439-016-1673-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Ngounou Wetie AG, Wormwood KL, Charette L, Ryan JP, Woods AG, Darie CC. Comparative two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the salivary proteome of children with autism spectrum disorder. J Cell Mol Med 2015; 19:2664-78. [PMID: 26290361 PMCID: PMC4627571 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decades, prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been on the rise. However, clear aetiology is still elusive and improvements in early diagnosis are needed. To uncover possible biomarkers present in ASD, we used two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and nanoliquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (nanoLC-MS/MS), to compare salivary proteome profiling of children with ASD and controls. A total of 889 spots were compared and only those spots with a fold change ≥1.7 and a P-value <0.05 or a fold change of ≥3.0 between ASD cases and controls were analysed by nanoLC-MS/MS. Alpha-amylase, CREB-binding protein, p532, Transferrin, Zn alpha2 glycoprotein, Zymogen granule protein 16, cystatin D and plasminogen were down-regulated in ASD. Increased expression of proto-oncogene Frequently rearranged in advanced T-cell lymphomas 1 (FRAT1), Kinesin family member 14, Integrin alpha6 subunit, growth hormone regulated TBC protein 1, parotid secretory protein, Prolactin-inducible protein precursor, Mucin-16, Ca binding protein migration inhibitory factor-related protein 14 (MRP14) was observed in individuals with ASD. Many of the identified proteins have previously been linked to ASD or were proposed as risk factors of ASD at the genetic level. Some others are involved in pathological pathways implicated in ASD causality such as oxidative stress, lipid and cholesterol metabolism, immune system disturbances and inflammation. These data could contribute to protein signatures for ASD presence, risk and subtypes, and advance understanding of ASD cause as well as provide novel treatment targets for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armand G Ngounou Wetie
- Biochemistry & Proteomics Group, Department of Chemistry & Biomolecular Science, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, USA
| | - Kelly L Wormwood
- Biochemistry & Proteomics Group, Department of Chemistry & Biomolecular Science, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, USA
| | - Laci Charette
- SUNY Plattsburgh Neuropsychology Clinic and Psychoeducation Services, Plattsburgh, NY, USA.,Department of Psychology, SUNY Plattsburgh, Plattsburgh, NY, USA
| | - Jeanne P Ryan
- Department of Psychology, SUNY Plattsburgh, Plattsburgh, NY, USA
| | - Alisa G Woods
- Biochemistry & Proteomics Group, Department of Chemistry & Biomolecular Science, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, USA.,SUNY Plattsburgh Neuropsychology Clinic and Psychoeducation Services, Plattsburgh, NY, USA
| | - Costel C Darie
- Biochemistry & Proteomics Group, Department of Chemistry & Biomolecular Science, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, USA
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45
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Frye RE. Metabolic and mitochondrial disorders associated with epilepsy in children with autism spectrum disorder. Epilepsy Behav 2015; 47:147-57. [PMID: 25440829 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2014.08.134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Revised: 08/25/2014] [Accepted: 08/27/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects a significant number of individuals in the United States, with the prevalence continuing to grow. A significant proportion of individuals with ASD have comorbid medical conditions such as epilepsy. In fact, treatment-resistant epilepsy appears to have a higher prevalence in children with ASD than in children without ASD, suggesting that current antiepileptic treatments may be suboptimal in controlling seizures in many individuals with ASD. Many individuals with ASD also appear to have underlying metabolic conditions. Metabolic conditions such as mitochondrial disease and dysfunction and abnormalities in cerebral folate metabolism may affect a substantial number of children with ASD, while other metabolic conditions that have been associated with ASD such as disorders of creatine, cholesterol, pyridoxine, biotin, carnitine, γ-aminobutyric acid, purine, pyrimidine, and amino acid metabolism and urea cycle disorders have also been associated with ASD without the prevalence clearly known. Interestingly, all of these metabolic conditions have been associated with epilepsy in children with ASD. The identification and treatment of these disorders could improve the underlying metabolic derangements and potentially improve behavior and seizure frequency and/or severity in these individuals. This paper provides an overview of these metabolic disorders in the context of ASD and discusses their characteristics, diagnostic testing, and treatment with concentration on mitochondrial disorders. To this end, this paper aims to help optimize the diagnosis and treatment of children with ASD and epilepsy. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Autism and Epilepsy".
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Frye
- Autism Research Program, Arkansas Children's Hospital Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
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46
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Cunningham D, DeBarber AE, Bir N, Binkley L, Merkens LS, Steiner RD, Herman GE. Analysis of hedgehog signaling in cerebellar granule cell precursors in a conditional Nsdhl allele demonstrates an essential role for cholesterol in postnatal CNS development. Hum Mol Genet 2015; 24:2808-25. [PMID: 25652406 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddv042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Accepted: 02/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
NSDHL is a 3β-hydroxysterol dehydrogenase that is involved in the removal of two C-4 methyl groups in one of the later steps of cholesterol biosynthesis. Mutations in the gene encoding the enzyme are responsible for the X-linked, male lethal mouse mutations bare patches and striated, as well as most cases of human CHILD syndrome. Rare, hypomorphic NSDHL mutations are also associated with X-linked intellectual disability in males with CK syndrome. Since hemizygous male mice with Nsdhl mutations die by midgestation, we generated a conditional targeted Nsdhl mutation (Nsdhl(tm1.1Hrm)) to investigate the essential role of cholesterol in the early postnatal CNS. Ablation of Nsdhl in radial glia using GFAP-cre resulted in live-born, normal appearing affected male pups. However, the pups develop overt ataxia by postnatal day 8-10 and die shortly thereafter. Histological abnormalities include progressive loss of cortical and hippocampal neurons, as well as deficits in the proliferation and migration of cerebellar granule precursors and subsequent massive apoptosis of the cerebellar cortex. We replicated the granule cell precursor proliferation defect in vitro and demonstrate that it results from defective signaling by SHH. Furthermore, this defect is almost completely rescued by supplementation of the culture media with exogenous cholesterol, while methylsterol accumulation above the enzymatic block appears to be associated with increased cell death. These data support the absolute requirement for cholesterol synthesis in situ once the blood-brain-barrier forms and cholesterol transport to the fetus is abolished. They further emphasize the complex ramifications of cholesterogenic enzyme deficiency on cellular metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Cunningham
- Center for Molecular and Human Genetics, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital and Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Natalie Bir
- Center for Molecular and Human Genetics, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital and Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Laura Binkley
- Center for Molecular and Human Genetics, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital and Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Robert D Steiner
- Department of Pediatrics, Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics and Institute on Development and Disability, Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA and Marshfield Clinic Research Foundation and the Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Marshfield and Madison, WI, USA
| | - Gail E Herman
- Center for Molecular and Human Genetics, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital and Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA,
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Naviaux JC, Wang L, Li K, Bright AT, Alaynick WA, Williams KR, Powell SB, Naviaux RK. Antipurinergic therapy corrects the autism-like features in the Fragile X (Fmr1 knockout) mouse model. Mol Autism 2015; 6:1. [PMID: 25705365 PMCID: PMC4334917 DOI: 10.1186/2040-2392-6-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This study was designed to test a new approach to drug treatment of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in the Fragile X (Fmr1) knockout mouse model. Methods We used behavioral analysis, mass spectrometry, metabolomics, electron microscopy, and western analysis to test the hypothesis that the disturbances in social behavior, novelty preference, metabolism, and synapse structure are treatable with antipurinergic therapy (APT). Results Weekly treatment with the purinergic antagonist suramin (20 mg/kg intraperitoneally), started at 9 weeks of age, restored normal social behavior, and improved metabolism, and brain synaptosomal structure. Abnormalities in synaptosomal glutamate, endocannabinoid, purinergic, and IP3 receptor expression, complement C1q, TDP43, and amyloid β precursor protein (APP) were corrected. Comprehensive metabolomic analysis identified 20 biochemical pathways associated with symptom improvements. Seventeen pathways were shared with human ASD, and 11 were shared with the maternal immune activation (MIA) model of ASD. These metabolic pathways were previously identified as functionally related mediators of the evolutionarily conserved cell danger response (CDR). Conclusions The data show that antipurinergic therapy improves the multisystem, ASD-like features of both the environmental MIA, and the genetic Fragile X models. These abnormalities appeared to be traceable to mitochondria and regulated by purinergic signaling. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/2040-2392-6-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane C Naviaux
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA
| | - Lin Wang
- The Mitochondrial and Metabolic Disease Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA ; Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA
| | - Kefeng Li
- The Mitochondrial and Metabolic Disease Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA ; Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA
| | - A Taylor Bright
- The Mitochondrial and Metabolic Disease Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA ; Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA
| | - William A Alaynick
- The Mitochondrial and Metabolic Disease Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA ; Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA
| | - Kenneth R Williams
- The Mitochondrial and Metabolic Disease Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA ; Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA ; General Atomics, Inc, San Diego, CA USA
| | - Susan B Powell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA ; Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, La Jolla, CA USA
| | - Robert K Naviaux
- The Mitochondrial and Metabolic Disease Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA ; Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA ; Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA ; Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 214 Dickinson St., Bldg CTF, Rm C102, San Diego, CA 92103-8467 USA ; Veterans Affairs Center for Excellence in Stress and Mental Health (CESAMH), La Jolla, CA USA
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Woods AG, Wormwood KL, Wetie AGN, Aslebagh R, Crimmins BS, Holsen TM, Darie CC. Autism spectrum disorder: an omics perspective. Proteomics Clin Appl 2014; 9:159-68. [PMID: 25311756 DOI: 10.1002/prca.201400116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2014] [Revised: 09/11/2014] [Accepted: 10/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Current directions in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) research may require moving beyond genetic analysis alone, based on the complexity of the disorder, heterogeneity and convergence of genetic alterations at the cellular/functional level. Mass spectrometry (MS) has been increasingly used to study CNS disorders, including ASDs. Proteomic research using MS is directed at understanding endogenous protein changes that occur in ASD. This review focuses on how MS has been used to study ASDs, with particular focus on proteomic analysis. Other neurodevelopmental disorders have been investigated using MS, including fragile X syndrome (FXS) and Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome (SLOS), genetic syndromes highly associated with ASD comorbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisa G Woods
- Biochemistry & Proteomics Group, Department of Chemistry & Biomolecular Science, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, USA; SUNY Plattsburgh Neuropsychology Clinic and Psychoeducation Services, Plattsburgh, NY, USA
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Verkhratsky A, Nedergaard M, Hertz L. Why are astrocytes important? Neurochem Res 2014; 40:389-401. [PMID: 25113122 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-014-1403-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2014] [Revised: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 07/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes, which populate the grey and white mater of the brain and the spinal cord are highly heterogeneous in their morphology and function. These cells are primarily responsible for homeostasis of the central nervous system (CNS). Most central synapses are surrounded by exceedingly thin astroglial perisynaptic processes, which act as "astroglial cradle" critical for genesis, maturation and maintenance of synaptic connectivity. The perisynaptic glial processes are densely packed with numerous transporters, which provide for homeostasis of ions and neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft, for local metabolic support and for release of astroglial derived scavengers of reactive oxygen species. Through perivascular processes astrocytes contribute to blood-brain barrier and form "glymphatic" drainage system of the CNS. Furthermore astrocytes are indispensible for glutamatergic and γ-aminobutyrate-ergic synaptic transmission being the supplier of neurotransmitters precursor glutamine via an astrocytic/neuronal cycle. Pathogenesis of many neurological disorders, including neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases is defined by loss of homeostatic function (astroglial asthenia) or remodelling of astroglial homoeostatic capabilities. Astroglial cells further contribute to neuropathologies through mounting complex defensive programme generally known as reactive astrogliosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexei Verkhratsky
- Faculty of Life Sciences, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK,
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Verkhratsky A, Parpura V. Neurological and psychiatric disorders as a neuroglial failure. PERIOD BIOL 2014; 116:115-124. [PMID: 25544781 PMCID: PMC4276339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Neuroglia are a diverse non-neuronal population of cells in the central and peripheral nervous system. These cells have a variety of functions that can all be summed up as the maintenance of homeostasis of the nervous system. It is the loss of homeostasis that represents the culprit of all disorders. Thus, neuroglia can be envisioned as the pivotal element in all neural disorders, be that neurological or psychiatric. In this review, we discuss the role of glia in homeostasis and defence of the nervous system as well as changes in the morpho-functional characteristics of these cells in various disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexei Verkhratsky
- Faculty of Life Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK ; Achucarro Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48011 Bilbao, Spain ; University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603022, Russia
| | - Vladimir Parpura
- Department of Neurobiology, Center for Glial Biology in Medicine, Atomic Force Microscopy & Nanotechnology Laboratories, Civitan International Research Center, Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA ; Department of Biotechnology, University or Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
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