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de Vries LE, Jongejan A, Monteiro Fortes J, Balesar R, Rozemuller AJM, Moerland PD, Huitinga I, Swaab DF, Verhaagen J. Gene-expression profiling of individuals resilient to Alzheimer's disease reveals higher expression of genes related to metallothionein and mitochondrial processes and no changes in the unfolded protein response. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2024; 12:68. [PMID: 38664739 PMCID: PMC11046840 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-024-01760-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Some individuals show a discrepancy between cognition and the amount of neuropathological changes characteristic for Alzheimer's disease (AD). This phenomenon has been referred to as 'resilience'. The molecular and cellular underpinnings of resilience remain poorly understood. To obtain an unbiased understanding of the molecular changes underlying resilience, we investigated global changes in gene expression in the superior frontal gyrus of a cohort of cognitively and pathologically well-defined AD patients, resilient individuals and age-matched controls (n = 11-12 per group). 897 genes were significantly altered between AD and control, 1121 between resilient and control and 6 between resilient and AD. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed that the expression of metallothionein (MT) and of genes related to mitochondrial processes was higher in the resilient donors. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identified gene modules related to the unfolded protein response, mitochondrial processes and synaptic signaling to be differentially associated with resilience or dementia. As changes in MT, mitochondria, heat shock proteins and the unfolded protein response (UPR) were the most pronounced changes in the GSEA and/or WGCNA, immunohistochemistry was used to further validate these processes. MT was significantly increased in astrocytes in resilient individuals. A higher proportion of the mitochondrial gene MT-CO1 was detected outside the cell body versus inside the cell body in the resilient compared to the control group and there were higher levels of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and X-box-binding protein 1 spliced (XBP1s), two proteins related to heat shock proteins and the UPR, in the AD donors. Finally, we show evidence for putative sex-specific alterations in resilience, including gene expression differences related to autophagy in females compared to males. Taken together, these results show possible mechanisms involving MTs, mitochondrial processes and the UPR by which individuals might maintain cognition despite the presence of AD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luuk E de Vries
- Department of Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Aldo Jongejan
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Epidemiology and Data Science, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Methodology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Infection and Immunity, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jennifer Monteiro Fortes
- Department of Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rawien Balesar
- Department of Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annemieke J M Rozemuller
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC - Location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Perry D Moerland
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Epidemiology and Data Science, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Methodology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Infection and Immunity, Inflammatory Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Inge Huitinga
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dick F Swaab
- Department of Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Verhaagen
- Department of Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University, Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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de Vries LE, Huitinga I, Kessels HW, Swaab DF, Verhaagen J. The concept of resilience to Alzheimer's Disease: current definitions and cellular and molecular mechanisms. Mol Neurodegener 2024; 19:33. [PMID: 38589893 PMCID: PMC11003087 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-024-00719-7] [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: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Some individuals are able to maintain their cognitive abilities despite the presence of significant Alzheimer's Disease (AD) neuropathological changes. This discrepancy between cognition and pathology has been labeled as resilience and has evolved into a widely debated concept. External factors such as cognitive stimulation are associated with resilience to AD, but the exact cellular and molecular underpinnings are not completely understood. In this review, we discuss the current definitions used in the field, highlight the translational approaches used to investigate resilience to AD and summarize the underlying cellular and molecular substrates of resilience that have been derived from human and animal studies, which have received more and more attention in the last few years. From these studies the picture emerges that resilient individuals are different from AD patients in terms of specific pathological species and their cellular reaction to AD pathology, which possibly helps to maintain cognition up to a certain tipping point. Studying these rare resilient individuals can be of great importance as it could pave the way to novel therapeutic avenues for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luuk E de Vries
- Department of Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Inge Huitinga
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Helmut W Kessels
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Amsterdam Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dick F Swaab
- Department of Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Joost Verhaagen
- Department of Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University, Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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3
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Lista S, Mapstone M, Caraci F, Emanuele E, López-Ortiz S, Martín-Hernández J, Triaca V, Imbimbo C, Gabelle A, Mielke MM, Nisticò R, Santos-Lozano A, Imbimbo BP. A critical appraisal of blood-based biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 96:102290. [PMID: 38580173 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Biomarkers that predict the clinical onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD) enable the identification of individuals in the early, preclinical stages of the disease. Detecting AD at this point may allow for more effective therapeutic interventions and optimized enrollment for clinical trials of novel drugs. The current biological diagnosis of AD is based on the AT(N) classification system with the measurement of brain deposition of amyloid-β (Aβ) ("A"), tau pathology ("T"), and neurodegeneration ("N"). Diagnostic cut-offs for Aβ1-42, the Aβ1-42/Aβ1-40 ratio, tau and hyperphosphorylated-tau concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid have been defined and may support AD clinical diagnosis. Blood-based biomarkers of the AT(N) categories have been described in the AD continuum. Cross-sectional and longitudinal studies have shown that the combination of blood biomarkers tracking neuroaxonal injury (neurofilament light chain) and neuroinflammatory pathways (glial fibrillary acidic protein) enhance sensitivity and specificity of AD clinical diagnosis and improve the prediction of AD onset. However, no international accepted cut-offs have been identified for these blood biomarkers. A kit for blood Aβ1-42/Aβ1-40 is commercially available in the U.S.; however, it does not provide a diagnosis, but simply estimates the risk of developing AD. Although blood-based AD biomarkers have a great potential in the diagnostic work-up of AD, they are not ready for the routine clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Lista
- i+HeALTH Strategic Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, Miguel de Cervantes European University (UEMC), Valladolid 47012, Spain.
| | - Mark Mapstone
- Department of Neurology, Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Catania 95125, Italy; Neuropharmacology and Translational Neurosciences Research Unit, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina 94018, Italy.
| | | | - Susana López-Ortiz
- i+HeALTH Strategic Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, Miguel de Cervantes European University (UEMC), Valladolid 47012, Spain.
| | - Juan Martín-Hernández
- i+HeALTH Strategic Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, Miguel de Cervantes European University (UEMC), Valladolid 47012, Spain.
| | - Viviana Triaca
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council (CNR), Rome 00015, Italy.
| | - Camillo Imbimbo
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia 27100, Italy.
| | - Audrey Gabelle
- Memory Resources and Research Center, Montpellier University of Excellence i-site, Montpellier 34295, France.
| | - Michelle M Mielke
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA.
| | - Robert Nisticò
- School of Pharmacy, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome 00133, Italy; Laboratory of Pharmacology of Synaptic Plasticity, EBRI Rita Levi-Montalcini Foundation, Rome 00143, Italy.
| | - Alejandro Santos-Lozano
- i+HeALTH Strategic Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, Miguel de Cervantes European University (UEMC), Valladolid 47012, Spain; Physical Activity and Health Research Group (PaHerg), Research Institute of the Hospital 12 de Octubre ('imas12'), Madrid 28041, Spain.
| | - Bruno P Imbimbo
- Department of Research and Development, Chiesi Farmaceutici, Parma 43122, Italy.
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Haynes JR, Whitmore CA, Behof WJ, Landman CA, Ong HH, Feld AP, Suero IC, Greer CB, Gore JC, Wijesinghe P, Matsubara JA, Wadzinski BE, Spiller BW, Pham W. TARGETING SOLUBLE AMYLOID-BETA OLIGOMERS WITH A NOVEL NANOBODY. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-3944211. [PMID: 38559050 PMCID: PMC10980145 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3944211/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The classical amyloid cascade hypothesis postulates that the aggregation of amyloid plaques and the accumulation of intracellular hyperphosphorylated Tau tangles, together, lead to profound neuronal death. However, emerging research has demonstrated that soluble amyloid-β oligomers (SAβOs) accumulate early, prior to amyloid plaque formation. SAβOs induce memory impairment and disrupt cognitive function independent of amyloid-β plaques, and even in the absence of plaque formation. This work describes the development and characterization of a novel anti-SAβO (E3) nanobody generated from an alpaca immunized with SAβO. In-vitro assays and in-vivo studies using 5XFAD mice indicate that the fluorescein (FAM)-labeled E3 nanobody recognizes both SAβOs and amyloid-β plaques. The E3 nanobody traverses across the blood-brain barrier and binds to amyloid species in the brain of 5XFAD mice. Imaging of mouse brains reveals that SAβO and amyloid-β plaques are not only different in size, shape, and morphology, but also have a distinct spatial distribution in the brain. SAβOs are associated with neurons, while amyloid plaques reside in the extracellular matrix. The results of this study demonstrate that the SAβO nanobody can serve as a diagnostic agent with potential theragnostic applications in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin R. Haynes
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Clayton A. Whitmore
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - William J. Behof
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Charlotte A. Landman
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Henry H. Ong
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Andrew P. Feld
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Isabelle C. Suero
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Celeste B. Greer
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - John C. Gore
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
- Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Printha Wijesinghe
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z3N9, Canada
| | - Joanne A. Matsubara
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z3N9, Canada
| | - Brian E. Wadzinski
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Benjamin W. Spiller
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt Center for Structural Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Wellington Pham
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
- Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer’s Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
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5
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Tolar M, Hey JA, Power A, Abushakra S. The Single Toxin Origin of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Neurodegenerative Disorders Enables Targeted Approach to Treatment and Prevention. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2727. [PMID: 38473975 PMCID: PMC10932387 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
New data suggest that the aggregation of misfolded native proteins initiates and drives the pathogenic cascade that leads to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other age-related neurodegenerative disorders. We propose a unifying single toxin theory of brain neurodegeneration that identifies new targets and approaches to the development of disease-modifying treatments. An extensive body of genetic evidence suggests soluble aggregates of beta-amyloid (Aβ) as the primary neurotoxin in the pathogenesis of AD. New insights from fluid biomarkers, imaging, and clinical studies provide further evidence for the decisive impact of toxic Aβ species in the initiation and progression of AD. Understanding the distinct roles of soluble and insoluble amyloid aggregates on AD pathogenesis has been the key missing piece of the Alzheimer's puzzle. Data from clinical trials with anti-amyloid agents and recent advances in the diagnosis of AD demonstrate that the driving insult in biologically defined AD is the neurotoxicity of soluble Aβ aggregates, called oligomers and protofibrils, rather than the relatively inert insoluble mature fibrils and amyloid plaques. Amyloid oligomers appear to be the primary factor causing the synaptic impairment, neuronal stress, spreading of tau pathology, and eventual cell death that lead to the clinical syndrome of AD dementia. All other biochemical effects and neurodegenerative changes in the brain that are observed in AD are a response to or a downstream effect of this initial toxic insult by oligomers. Other neurodegenerative disorders follow a similar pattern of pathogenesis, in which normal brain proteins with important biological functions become trapped in the aging brain due to impaired clearance and then misfold and aggregate into neurotoxic species that exhibit prion-like behavior. These aggregates then spread through the brain and cause disease-specific neurodegeneration. Targeting the inhibition of this initial step in neurodegeneration by blocking the misfolding and aggregation of healthy proteins has the potential to slow or arrest disease progression, and if treatment is administered early in the course of AD and other neurodegenerative disorders, it may delay or prevent the onset of clinical symptoms.
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6
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Rinauro DJ, Chiti F, Vendruscolo M, Limbocker R. Misfolded protein oligomers: mechanisms of formation, cytotoxic effects, and pharmacological approaches against protein misfolding diseases. Mol Neurodegener 2024; 19:20. [PMID: 38378578 PMCID: PMC10877934 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00651-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The conversion of native peptides and proteins into amyloid aggregates is a hallmark of over 50 human disorders, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Increasing evidence implicates misfolded protein oligomers produced during the amyloid formation process as the primary cytotoxic agents in many of these devastating conditions. In this review, we analyze the processes by which oligomers are formed, their structures, physicochemical properties, population dynamics, and the mechanisms of their cytotoxicity. We then focus on drug discovery strategies that target the formation of oligomers and their ability to disrupt cell physiology and trigger degenerative processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dillon J Rinauro
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK
| | - Fabrizio Chiti
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Michele Vendruscolo
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK.
| | - Ryan Limbocker
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY, 10996, USA.
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7
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Fettahoglu A, Zhao M, Khalighi M, Vossler H, Jovin M, Davidzon G, Zeineh M, Boada F, Mormino E, Henderson VW, Moseley M, Chen KT, Zaharchuk G. Early-Frame [ 18F]Florbetaben PET/MRI for Cerebral Blood Flow Quantification in Patients with Cognitive Impairment: Comparison to an [ 15O]Water Gold Standard. J Nucl Med 2024; 65:306-312. [PMID: 38071587 PMCID: PMC10858379 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.123.266273] [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: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Cerebral blood flow (CBF) may be estimated from early-frame PET imaging of lipophilic tracers, such as amyloid agents, enabling measurement of this important biomarker in participants with dementia and memory decline. Although previous methods could map relative CBF, quantitative measurement in absolute units (mL/100 g/min) remained challenging and has not been evaluated against the gold standard method of [15O]water PET. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a minimally invasive quantitative CBF imaging method combining early [18F]florbetaben (eFBB) with phase-contrast MRI using simultaneous PET/MRI. Methods: Twenty participants (11 men and 9 women; 8 cognitively normal, 9 with mild cognitive impairment, and 3 with dementia; 10 β-amyloid negative and 10 β-amyloid positive; 69 ± 9 y old) underwent [15O]water PET, phase-contract MRI, and eFBB imaging in a single session on a 3-T PET/MRI scanner. Quantitative CBF images were created from the first 2 min of brain activity after [18F]florbetaben injection combined with phase-contrast MRI measurement of total brain blood flow. These maps were compared with [15O]water CBF using concordance correlation (CC) and Bland-Altman statistics for gray matter, white matter, and individual regions derived from the automated anatomic labeling (AAL) atlas. Results: The 2 methods showed similar results in gray matter ([15O]water, 55.2 ± 14.7 mL/100 g/min; eFBB, 55.9 ± 14.2 mL/100 g/min; difference, 0.7 ± 2.4 mL/100 g/min; P = 0.2) and white matter ([15O]water, 21.4 ± 5.6 mL/100 g/min; eFBB, 21.2 ± 5.3 mL/100 g/min; difference, -0.2 ± 1.0 mL/100 g/min; P = 0.4). The intrasubject CC for AAL-derived regions was high (0.91 ± 0.04). Intersubject CC in different AAL-derived regions was similarly high, ranging from 0.86 for midfrontal regions to 0.98 for temporal regions. There were no significant differences in performance between the methods in the amyloid-positive and amyloid-negative groups as well as participants with different cognitive statuses. Conclusion: We conclude that eFBB PET/MRI can provide robust CBF measurements, highlighting the capability of simultaneous PET/MRI to provide measurements of both CBF and amyloid burden in a single imaging session in participants with memory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ates Fettahoglu
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California
- Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Moss Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Mehdi Khalighi
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Hillary Vossler
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California; and
| | - Maria Jovin
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Guido Davidzon
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Michael Zeineh
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Fernando Boada
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Elizabeth Mormino
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California; and
| | - Victor W Henderson
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California; and
| | - Michael Moseley
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Kevin T Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Greg Zaharchuk
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California
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8
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Jang C, Portugal Barron D, Duo L, Ma C, Seabaugh H, Guo Z. EPR Studies of Aβ42 Oligomers Indicate a Parallel In-Register β-Sheet Structure. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:86-97. [PMID: 38109787 PMCID: PMC10767747 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00364] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Aβ aggregation leads to the formation of both insoluble amyloid fibrils and soluble oligomers. Understanding the structures of Aβ oligomers is important for delineating the mechanism of Aβ aggregation and developing effective therapeutics. Here, we use site-directed spin labeling and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy to study Aβ42 oligomers prepared by using the protocol of Aβ-derived diffusible ligands. We obtained the EPR spectra of 37 Aβ42 oligomer samples, each spin-labeled at a unique residue position of the Aβ42 sequence. Analysis of the disordered EPR components shows that the N-terminal region has a lower local structural stability. Spin label mobility analysis reveals three structured segments at residues 9-11, 15-22, and 30-40. Intermolecular spin-spin interactions indicate a parallel in-register β-sheet structure, with residues 34-38 forming the structural core. Residues 16-21 also adopt the parallel in-register β-structure, albeit with weaker intermolecular packing. Our results suggest that there is a structural class of Aβ oligomers that adopt fibril-like conformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea Jang
- Department of Neurology,
Brain Research Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Diana Portugal Barron
- Department of Neurology,
Brain Research Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Lan Duo
- Department of Neurology,
Brain Research Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Christine Ma
- Department of Neurology,
Brain Research Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Hanna Seabaugh
- Department of Neurology,
Brain Research Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Zhefeng Guo
- Department of Neurology,
Brain Research Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
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9
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Marković M, Milošević J, Wang W, Cao Y. Passive Immunotherapies Targeting Amyloid- β in Alzheimer's Disease: A Quantitative Systems Pharmacology Perspective. Mol Pharmacol 2023; 105:1-13. [PMID: 37907353 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.123.000726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by amyloid-β (Aβ) protein accumulation in the brain. Passive immunotherapies using monoclonal antibodies for targeting Aβ have shown promise for AD treatment. Indeed, recent US Food and Drug Administration approval of aducanumab and lecanemab, alongside positive donanemab Phase III results demonstrated clinical efficacy after decades of failed clinical trials for AD. However, the pharmacological basis distinguishing clinically effective from ineffective therapies remains unclear, impeding development of potent therapeutics. This study aimed to provide a quantitative perspective for effectively targeting Aβ with antibodies. We first reviewed the contradicting results associated with the amyloid hypothesis and the pharmacological basis of Aβ immunotherapy. Subsequently, we developed a quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) model that describes the non-linear progression of Aβ pathology and the pharmacologic actions of the Aβ-targeting antibodies. Using the QSP model, we analyzed various scenarios for effective passive immunotherapy for AD. The model revealed that binding exclusively to the Aβ monomer has minimal effect on Aβ aggregation and plaque reduction, making the antibody affinity toward Aβ monomer unwanted, as it could become a distractive mechanism for plaque reduction. Neither early intervention, high brain penetration, nor increased dose could yield significant improvement of clinical efficacy for antibodies targeting solely monomers. Antibodies that bind all Aβ species but lack effector function exhibited moderate effects in plaque reduction. Our model highlights the importance of binding aggregate Aβ species and incorporating effector functions for efficient and early plaque reduction, guiding the development of more effective therapies for this devastating disease. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Despite previous unsuccessful attempts spanning several decades, passive immunotherapies utilizing monoclonal antibodies for targeting amyloid-beta (Aβ) have demonstrated promise with two recent FDA approvals. However, the pharmacological basis that differentiates clinically effective therapies from ineffective ones remains elusive. Our study offers a quantitative systems pharmacology perspective, emphasizing the significance of selectively targeting specific Aβ species and importance of antibody effector functions. This perspective sheds light on the development of more effective therapies for this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milica Marković
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy (M.M., Y.C.) and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine (Y.C.), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Department of Biochemistry (J.M.), University of Belgrade, Faculty of Chemistry, Belgrade, Serbia; and Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, Janssen Research & Development (W.W.), LLC, Spring House, Pennsylvania
| | - Jelica Milošević
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy (M.M., Y.C.) and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine (Y.C.), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Department of Biochemistry (J.M.), University of Belgrade, Faculty of Chemistry, Belgrade, Serbia; and Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, Janssen Research & Development (W.W.), LLC, Spring House, Pennsylvania
| | - Weirong Wang
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy (M.M., Y.C.) and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine (Y.C.), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Department of Biochemistry (J.M.), University of Belgrade, Faculty of Chemistry, Belgrade, Serbia; and Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, Janssen Research & Development (W.W.), LLC, Spring House, Pennsylvania
| | - Yanguang Cao
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy (M.M., Y.C.) and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine (Y.C.), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Department of Biochemistry (J.M.), University of Belgrade, Faculty of Chemistry, Belgrade, Serbia; and Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, Janssen Research & Development (W.W.), LLC, Spring House, Pennsylvania
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10
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Izuo N, Watanabe N, Noda Y, Saito T, Saido TC, Yokote K, Hotta H, Shimizu T. Insulin resistance induces earlier initiation of cognitive dysfunction mediated by cholinergic deregulation in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Aging Cell 2023; 22:e13994. [PMID: 37822109 PMCID: PMC10652326 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13994] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Although insulin resistance increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD), the mechanisms remain unclear, partly because no animal model exhibits the insulin-resistant phenotype without persistent hyperglycemia. Here we established an AD model with whole-body insulin resistance without persistent hyperglycemia (APP/IR-dKI mice) by crossbreeding constitutive knock-in mice with P1195L-mutated insulin receptor (IR-KI mice) and those with mutated amyloid precursor protein (AppNL-G-F mice: APP-KI mice). APP/IR-dKI mice exhibited cognitive impairment at an earlier age than APP-KI mice. Since cholinergic dysfunction is a major characteristic of AD, pharmacological interventions on the cholinergic system were performed to investigate the mechanism. Antagonism to a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor α7 (nAChRα7) suppressed cognitive function and cortical blood flow (CBF) response to cholinergic-regulated peripheral stimulation in APP-KI mice but not APP/IR-dKI mice. Cortical expression of Chrna7, encoding nAChRα7, was downregulated in APP/IR-dKI mice compared with APP-KI. Amyloid β burden did not differ between APP-KI and APP/IR-dKI mice. Therefore, insulin resistance, not persistent hyperglycemia, induces the earlier onset of cognitive dysfunction and CBF deregulation mediated by nAChRα7 downregulation. Our mouse model will help clarify the association between type 2 diabetes mellitus and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naotaka Izuo
- Department of Endocrinology, Hematology and Gerontology, Graduate School of MedicineChiba UniversityChibaJapan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Therapy and Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Medical and Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of ToyamaToyamaJapan
| | - Nobuhiro Watanabe
- Department of Autonomic NeuroscienceTokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and GerontologyTokyoJapan
| | - Yoshihiro Noda
- Department of Animal FacilityTokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and GerontologyTokyoJapan
| | - Takashi Saito
- Laboratory for Proteolytic NeuroscienceRIKEN Center for Brain ScienceWakoJapan
- Department of Neurocognitive ScienceInstitute of Brain Science, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical SciencesNagoyaJapan
| | - Takaomi C. Saido
- Laboratory for Proteolytic NeuroscienceRIKEN Center for Brain ScienceWakoJapan
| | - Koutaro Yokote
- Department of Endocrinology, Hematology and Gerontology, Graduate School of MedicineChiba UniversityChibaJapan
| | - Harumi Hotta
- Department of Autonomic NeuroscienceTokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and GerontologyTokyoJapan
| | - Takahiko Shimizu
- Department of Endocrinology, Hematology and Gerontology, Graduate School of MedicineChiba UniversityChibaJapan
- Aging Stress Response Research Project TeamNational Center for Geriatrics and GerontologyObuJapan
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11
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Tobeh NS, Bruce KD. Emerging Alzheimer's disease therapeutics: promising insights from lipid metabolism and microglia-focused interventions. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1259012. [PMID: 38020773 PMCID: PMC10630922 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1259012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
More than 55 million people suffer from dementia, with this number projected to double every 20 years. In the United States, 1 in 3 aged individuals dies from Alzheimer's disease (AD) or another type of dementia and AD kills more individuals than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined. AD is a complex and multifactorial disease involving amyloid plaque and neurofibrillary tangle formation, glial cell dysfunction, and lipid droplet accumulation (among other pathologies), ultimately leading to neurodegeneration and neuronal death. Unfortunately, the current FDA-approved therapeutics do not reverse nor halt AD. While recently approved amyloid-targeting antibodies can slow AD progression to improve outcomes for some patients, they are associated with adverse side effects, may have a narrow therapeutic window, and are expensive. In this review, we evaluate current and emerging AD therapeutics in preclinical and clinical development and provide insight into emerging strategies that target brain lipid metabolism and microglial function - an approach that may synergistically target multiple mechanisms that drive AD neuropathogenesis. Overall, we evaluate whether these disease-modifying emerging therapeutics hold promise as interventions that may be able to reverse or halt AD progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nour S. Tobeh
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Kimberley D. Bruce
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
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12
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Kim J, Jeon H, Yun Kim H, Kim Y. Failure, Success, and Future Direction of Alzheimer Drugs Targeting Amyloid-β Cascade: Pros and Cons of Chemical and Biological Modalities. Chembiochem 2023; 24:e202300328. [PMID: 37497809 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300328] [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: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent cause of dementia and has become a health concern worldwide urging for an effective therapeutic. The amyloid hypothesis, currently the most pursued basis of AD drug discovery, points the cause of AD to abnormal production and ineffective removal of pathogenic aggregated amyloid-β (Aβ). AD therapeutic research has been focused on targeting different species of Aβ in the amyloidogenic process to control Aβ content and recover cognitive decline. Among the different processes targeted, the clearance mechanism has been found to be the most effective, supported by the recent clinical approval of an Aβ-targeting immunotherapeutic drug which significantly slowed cognitive decline. Although the current AD drug discovery field is extensively researching immunotherapeutic drugs, there are numerous properties of immunotherapy in need of improvements that could be overcome by an equally performing chemical drug. Here, we review chemical and immunotherapy drug candidates, based on their mechanism of modulating the amyloid cascade, selected from the AlzForum database. Through this review, we aim to summarize and evaluate the prospect of Aβ-targeting chemical drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- JiMin Kim
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - Hanna Jeon
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - Hye Yun Kim
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - YoungSoo Kim
- Department of Pharmacy and Yonsei Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, Yonsei University, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
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13
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Bouvet P, de Gea P, Aimard M, Chounlamountri N, Honnorat J, Delcros JG, Salin PA, Meissirel C. A novel peptide derived from vascular endothelial growth factor prevents amyloid beta aggregation and toxicity. Aging Cell 2023; 22:e13907. [PMID: 37415305 PMCID: PMC10497828 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyloid-β oligomers (Aβo) are the most pathologically relevant Aβ species in Alzheimer's disease (AD), because they induce early synaptic dysfunction that leads to learning and memory impairments. In contrast, increasing VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) brain levels have been shown to improve learning and memory processes, and to alleviate Aβ-mediated synapse dysfunction. Here, we designed a new peptide, the blocking peptide (BP), which is derived from an Aβo-targeted domain of the VEGF protein, and investigated its effect on Aβ-associated toxicity. Using a combination of biochemical, 3D and ultrastructural imaging, and electrophysiological approaches, we demonstrated that BP strongly interacts with Aβo and blocks Aβ fibrillar aggregation process, leading to the formation of Aβ amorphous aggregates. BP further impedes the formation of structured Aβo and prevents their pathogenic binding to synapses. Importantly, acute BP treatment successfully rescues long-term potentiation (LTP) in the APP/PS1 mouse model of AD, at an age when LTP is highly impaired in hippocampal slices. Moreover, BP is also able to block the interaction between Aβo and VEGF, which suggests a dual mechanism aimed at both trapping Aβo and releasing VEGF to alleviate Aβo-induced synaptic damage. Our findings provide evidence for a neutralizing effect of the BP on Aβ aggregation process and pathogenic action, highlighting a potential new therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. Bouvet
- MeLiS, Institut NeuroMyoGène (INMG), Synaptopathies and Autoantibodies, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1314Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR5284LyonFrance
- Univ LyonUniversité Claude Bernard Lyon 1LyonFrance
| | - P. de Gea
- MeLiS, Institut NeuroMyoGène (INMG), Synaptopathies and Autoantibodies, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1314Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR5284LyonFrance
- Univ LyonUniversité Claude Bernard Lyon 1LyonFrance
| | - M. Aimard
- MeLiS, Institut NeuroMyoGène (INMG), Synaptopathies and Autoantibodies, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1314Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR5284LyonFrance
- Univ LyonUniversité Claude Bernard Lyon 1LyonFrance
| | - N. Chounlamountri
- MeLiS, Institut NeuroMyoGène (INMG), Synaptopathies and Autoantibodies, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1314Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR5284LyonFrance
- Univ LyonUniversité Claude Bernard Lyon 1LyonFrance
| | - J. Honnorat
- MeLiS, Institut NeuroMyoGène (INMG), Synaptopathies and Autoantibodies, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1314Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR5284LyonFrance
- Univ LyonUniversité Claude Bernard Lyon 1LyonFrance
| | - J. G. Delcros
- Univ LyonUniversité Claude Bernard Lyon 1LyonFrance
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Apoptosis, Cancer and Development, Institut PLAsCAN, INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR5286Centre Léon BérardLyonFrance
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Small Molecules for Biological TargetsINSERM U1052 – CNRS UMR5286, ISPB RockefellerLyonFrance
| | - P. A. Salin
- Univ LyonUniversité Claude Bernard Lyon 1LyonFrance
- Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon, Forgetting Processes and Cortical DynamicsINSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292BronFrance
| | - C. Meissirel
- MeLiS, Institut NeuroMyoGène (INMG), Synaptopathies and Autoantibodies, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1314Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR5284LyonFrance
- Univ LyonUniversité Claude Bernard Lyon 1LyonFrance
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14
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Wang T, Jia H. The Sigma Receptors in Alzheimer's Disease: New Potential Targets for Diagnosis and Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12025. [PMID: 37569401 PMCID: PMC10418732 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512025] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Sigma (σ) receptors are a class of unique proteins with two subtypes: the sigma-1 (σ1) receptor which is situated at the mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane (MAM), and the sigma-2 (σ2) receptor, located in the ER-resident membrane. Increasing evidence indicates the involvement of both σ1 and σ2 receptors in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), and thus these receptors represent two potentially effective biomarkers for emerging AD therapies. The availability of optimal radioligands for positron emission tomography (PET) neuroimaging of the σ1 and σ2 receptors in humans will provide tools to monitor AD progression and treatment outcomes. In this review, we first summarize the significance of both receptors in the pathophysiology of AD and highlight AD therapeutic strategies related to the σ1 and σ2 receptors. We then survey the potential PET radioligands, with an emphasis on the requirements of optimal radioligands for imaging the σ1 or σ2 receptors in humans. Finally, we discuss current challenges in the development of PET radioligands for the σ1 or σ2 receptors, and the opportunities for neuroimaging to elucidate the σ1 and σ2 receptors as novel biomarkers for early AD diagnosis, and for monitoring of disease progression and AD drug efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Radiopharmaceuticals (Beijing Normal University), Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China;
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400037, China
| | - Hongmei Jia
- Key Laboratory of Radiopharmaceuticals (Beijing Normal University), Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China;
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15
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Zhang A, Portugal Barron D, Chen EW, Guo Z. A protein aggregation platform that distinguishes oligomers from amyloid fibrils. Analyst 2023; 148:2283-2294. [PMID: 37129054 PMCID: PMC10266934 DOI: 10.1039/d3an00487b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Deposition of aggregated proteins is a pathological feature in many neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. In addition to insoluble amyloid fibrils, protein aggregation leads to the formation of soluble oligomers, which are more toxic and pathogenic than fibrils. However, it is challenging to screen for inhibitors targeting oligomers due to the overlapping processes of oligomerization and fibrillization. Here we report a protein aggregation platform that uses intact and split TEM-1 β-lactamase proteins as reporters of protein aggregation. The intact β-lactamase fused with an amyloid protein can report the overall protein aggregation, which leads to loss of lactamase activity. On the other hand, reconstitution of active β-lactamase from the split lactamase construct requires the formation of amyloid oligomers, making the split lactamase system sensitive to oligomerization. Using Aβ, a protein that forms amyloid plaques in Alzheimer's disease, we show that the growth curves of bacterial cells expressing either intact or split lactamase-Aβ fusion proteins can report changes in the Aβ aggregation. The cell lysate lactamase activity assays show that the oligomer fraction accounts for 20% of total activity for the split lactamase-Aβ construct, but only 3% of total activity for the intact lactamase-Aβ construct, confirming the sensitivity of the split lactamase to oligomerization. The combination of the intact and split lactamase constructs allows the distinction of aggregation modulators targeting oligomerization from those targeting overall aggregation. These low-cost bacterial cell-based and biochemical assays are suitable for high-throughput screening of aggregation inhibitors targeting oligomers of various amyloid proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Brain Research Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Diana Portugal Barron
- Department of Neurology, Brain Research Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Erica W Chen
- Department of Neurology, Brain Research Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Zhefeng Guo
- Department of Neurology, Brain Research Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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16
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Araki W. Aβ Oligomer Toxicity-Reducing Therapy for the Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease: Importance of the Nrf2 and PPARγ Pathways. Cells 2023; 12:1386. [PMID: 37408220 DOI: 10.3390/cells12101386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed that soluble amyloid-β oligomers (AβOs) play a pathogenetic role in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Indeed, AβOs induce neurotoxic and synaptotoxic effects and are also critically involved in neuroinflammation. Oxidative stress appears to be a crucial event underlying these pathological effects of AβOs. From a therapeutic standpoint, new drugs for AD designed to remove AβOs or inhibit the formation of AβOs are currently being developed. However, it is also worth considering strategies for preventing AβO toxicity itself. In particular, small molecules with AβO toxicity-reducing activity have potential as drug candidates. Among such small molecules, those that can enhance Nrf2 and/or PPARγ activity can effectively inhibit AβO toxicity. In this review, I summarize studies on the small molecules that counteract AβO toxicity and are capable of activating Nrf2 and/or PPARγ. I also discuss how these interrelated pathways are involved in the mechanisms by which these small molecules prevent AβO-induced neurotoxicity and neuroinflammation. I propose that AβO toxicity-reducing therapy, designated ATR-T, could be a beneficial, complementary strategy for the prevention and treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Araki
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Science, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
- Memory Clinic Ochanomizu, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
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17
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Liu Y, Shi X, Tian Y, Zhai S, Liu Y, Xiong Z, Chu S. An insight into novel therapeutic potentials of taxifolin. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1173855. [PMID: 37261284 PMCID: PMC10227600 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1173855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Taxifolin is a flavonoid compound, originally isolated from the bark of Douglas fir trees, which is often found in foods such as onions and olive oil, and is also used in commercial preparations, and has attracted the interest of nutritionists and medicinal chemists due to its broad range of health-promoting effects. It is a powerful antioxidant with excellent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and other pharmacological activities. This review focuses on the breakthroughs in taxifolin for the treatment of diseases from 2019 to 2022 according to various systems of the human body, such as the nervous system, immune system, and digestive system, and on the basis of this review, we summarize the problems of current research and try to suggest solutions and future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Implantology, Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaolu Shi
- Department of Implantology, Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ye Tian
- Department of Implantology, Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shaobo Zhai
- Department of Implantology, Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuyan Liu
- Department of Endodontics, Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhengrong Xiong
- Polymer Composites Engineering Laboratory, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Changchun, China
| | - Shunli Chu
- Department of Implantology, Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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18
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Pils M, Dybala A, Rehn F, Blömeke L, Bujnicki T, Kraemer-Schulien V, Hoyer W, Riesner D, Willbold D, Bannach O. Development and Implementation of an Internal Quality Control Sample to Standardize Oligomer-Based Diagnostics of Alzheimer's Disease. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13101702. [PMID: 37238187 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13101702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein misfolding and aggregation are pathological hallmarks of various neurodegenerative diseases. In Alzheimer's disease (AD), soluble and toxic amyloid-β (Aβ) oligomers are biomarker candidates for diagnostics and drug development. However, accurate quantification of Aβ oligomers in bodily fluids is challenging because extreme sensitivity and specificity are required. We previously introduced surface-based fluorescence intensity distribution analysis (sFIDA) with single-particle sensitivity. In this report, a preparation protocol for a synthetic Aβ oligomer sample was developed. This sample was used for internal quality control (IQC) to improve standardization, quality assurance, and routine application of oligomer-based diagnostic methods. We established an aggregation protocol for Aβ1-42, characterized the oligomers by atomic force microscopy (AFM), and assessed their application in sFIDA. Globular-shaped oligomers with a median size of 2.67 nm were detected by AFM, and sFIDA analysis of the Aβ1-42 oligomers yielded a femtomolar detection limit with high assay selectivity and dilution linearity over 5 log units. Lastly, we implemented a Shewhart chart for monitoring IQC performance over time, which is another important step toward quality assurance of oligomer-based diagnostic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Pils
- attyloid GmbH, Merowingerplatz 1a, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Biological Information Processing (Structural Biochemistry: IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52428 Jülich, Germany
| | - Alexandra Dybala
- attyloid GmbH, Merowingerplatz 1a, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Fabian Rehn
- attyloid GmbH, Merowingerplatz 1a, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Biological Information Processing (Structural Biochemistry: IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52428 Jülich, Germany
| | - Lara Blömeke
- attyloid GmbH, Merowingerplatz 1a, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Biological Information Processing (Structural Biochemistry: IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52428 Jülich, Germany
| | - Tuyen Bujnicki
- Institute of Biological Information Processing (Structural Biochemistry: IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52428 Jülich, Germany
| | - Victoria Kraemer-Schulien
- Institute of Biological Information Processing (Structural Biochemistry: IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52428 Jülich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Hoyer
- Institute of Biological Information Processing (Structural Biochemistry: IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52428 Jülich, Germany
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Detlev Riesner
- attyloid GmbH, Merowingerplatz 1a, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Dieter Willbold
- attyloid GmbH, Merowingerplatz 1a, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Biological Information Processing (Structural Biochemistry: IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52428 Jülich, Germany
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Oliver Bannach
- attyloid GmbH, Merowingerplatz 1a, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Biological Information Processing (Structural Biochemistry: IBI-7), Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52428 Jülich, Germany
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19
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Limbocker R, Cremades N, Cascella R, Tessier PM, Vendruscolo M, Chiti F. Characterization of Pairs of Toxic and Nontoxic Misfolded Protein Oligomers Elucidates the Structural Determinants of Oligomer Toxicity in Protein Misfolding Diseases. Acc Chem Res 2023. [PMID: 37071750 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.3c00045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
ConspectusThe aberrant misfolding and aggregation of peptides and proteins into amyloid aggregates occurs in over 50 largely incurable protein misfolding diseases. These pathologies include Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, which are global medical emergencies owing to their prevalence in increasingly aging populations worldwide. Although the presence of mature amyloid aggregates is a hallmark of such neurodegenerative diseases, misfolded protein oligomers are increasingly recognized as of central importance in the pathogenesis of many of these maladies. These oligomers are small, diffusible species that can form as intermediates in the amyloid fibril formation process or be released by mature fibrils after they are formed. They have been closely associated with the induction of neuronal dysfunction and cell death. It has proven rather challenging to study these oligomeric species because of their short lifetimes, low concentrations, extensive structural heterogeneity, and challenges associated with producing stable, homogeneous, and reproducible populations. Despite these difficulties, investigators have developed protocols to produce kinetically, chemically, or structurally stabilized homogeneous populations of protein misfolded oligomers from several amyloidogenic peptides and proteins at experimentally ameneable concentrations. Furthermore, procedures have been established to produce morphologically similar but structurally distinct oligomers from the same protein sequence that are either toxic or nontoxic to cells. These tools offer unique opportunities to identify and investigate the structural determinants of oligomer toxicity by a close comparative inspection of their structures and the mechanisms of action through which they cause cell dysfunction.This Account reviews multidisciplinary results, including from our own groups, obtained by combining chemistry, physics, biochemistry, cell biology, and animal models for pairs of toxic and nontoxic oligomers. We describe oligomers comprised of the amyloid-β peptide, which underlie Alzheimer's disease, and α-synuclein, which are associated with Parkinson's disease and other related neurodegenerative pathologies, collectively known as synucleinopathies. Furthermore, we also discuss oligomers formed by the 91-residue N-terminal domain of [NiFe]-hydrogenase maturation factor from E. coli, which we use as a model non-disease-related protein, and by an amyloid stretch of Sup35 prion protein from yeast. These oligomeric pairs have become highly useful experimental tools for studying the molecular determinants of toxicity characteristic of protein misfolding diseases. Key properties have been identified that differentiate toxic from nontoxic oligomers in their ability to induce cellular dysfunction. These characteristics include solvent-exposed hydrophobic regions, interactions with membranes, insertion into lipid bilayers, and disruption of plasma membrane integrity. By using these properties, it has been possible to rationalize in model systems the responses to pairs of toxic and nontoxic oligomers. Collectively, these studies provide guidance for the development of efficacious therapeutic strategies to target rationally the cytotoxicity of misfolded protein oligomers in neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Limbocker
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, New York 10996, United States
| | - Nunilo Cremades
- Institute for Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI) and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50009, Spain
| | - Roberta Cascella
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
| | - Peter M Tessier
- Departments of Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Biomedical Engineering, Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Michele Vendruscolo
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Fabrizio Chiti
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence 50134, Italy
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20
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Afsar A, Chacon Castro MDC, Soladogun AS, Zhang L. Recent Development in the Understanding of Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms Underlying the Etiopathogenesis of Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087258. [PMID: 37108421 PMCID: PMC10138573 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that leads to dementia and patient death. AD is characterized by intracellular neurofibrillary tangles, extracellular amyloid beta (Aβ) plaque deposition, and neurodegeneration. Diverse alterations have been associated with AD progression, including genetic mutations, neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier (BBB) impairment, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and metal ion imbalance.Additionally, recent studies have shown an association between altered heme metabolism and AD. Unfortunately, decades of research and drug development have not produced any effective treatments for AD. Therefore, understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying AD pathology and identifying potential therapeutic targets are crucial for AD drug development. This review discusses the most common alterations associated with AD and promising therapeutic targets for AD drug discovery. Furthermore, it highlights the role of heme in AD development and summarizes mathematical models of AD, including a stochastic mathematical model of AD and mathematical models of the effect of Aβ on AD. We also summarize the potential treatment strategies that these models can offer in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atefeh Afsar
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | | | | | - Li Zhang
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
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21
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Wang Z, Jin M, Hong W, Liu W, Reczek D, Lagomarsino VN, Hu Y, Weeden T, Frosch MP, Young-Pearse TL, Pradier L, Selkoe D, Walsh DM. Learnings about Aβ from human brain recommend the use of a live-neuron bioassay for the discovery of next generation Alzheimer's disease immunotherapeutics. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2023; 11:39. [PMID: 36899414 PMCID: PMC10007750 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-023-01511-2] [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: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite ongoing debate, the amyloid β-protein (Aβ) remains the prime therapeutic target for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, rational drug design has been hampered by a lack of knowledge about neuroactive Aβ. To help address this deficit, we developed live-cell imaging of iPSC-derived human neurons (iNs) to study the effects of the most disease relevant form of Aβ-oligomeric assemblies (oAβ) extracted from AD brain. Of ten brains studied, extracts from nine caused neuritotoxicity, and in eight cases this was abrogated by Aβ immunodepletion. Here we show that activity in this bioassay agrees relatively well with disruption of hippocampal long-term potentiation, a correlate of learning and memory, and that measurement of neurotoxic oAβ can be obscured by more abundant non-toxic forms of Aβ. These findings indicate that the development of novel Aβ targeting therapeutics may benefit from unbiased activity-based discovery. To test this principle, we directly compared 5 clinical antibodies (aducanumab, bapineuzumab, BAN2401, gantenerumab, and SAR228810) together with an in-house aggregate-preferring antibody (1C22) and established relative EC50s in protecting human neurons from human Aβ. The results yielded objective numerical data on the potency of each antibody in neutralizing human oAβ neuritotoxicity. Their relative efficacies in this morphological assay were paralleled by their functional ability to rescue oAβ-induced inhibition of hippocampal synaptic plasticity. This novel paradigm provides an unbiased, all-human system for selecting candidate antibodies for advancement to human immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zemin Wang
- Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Research, Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Hale Building for Transformative Medicine, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Ming Jin
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Wei Hong
- Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Research, Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Hale Building for Transformative Medicine, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Wen Liu
- Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Research, Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Hale Building for Transformative Medicine, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - David Reczek
- Sanofi-Genzyme Corporation, Framingham, MA, 01701, USA
| | - Valentina N Lagomarsino
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Yuan Hu
- Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Research, Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Hale Building for Transformative Medicine, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Tim Weeden
- Sanofi-Genzyme Corporation, Framingham, MA, 01701, USA
| | - Matthew P Frosch
- Massachusetts General Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, 02129, USA
| | - Tracy L Young-Pearse
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | | | - Dennis Selkoe
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Dominic M Walsh
- Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Research, Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Hale Building for Transformative Medicine, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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22
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Wojtunik-Kulesza K, Rudkowska M, Orzeł-Sajdłowska A. Aducanumab-Hope or Disappointment for Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054367. [PMID: 36901797 PMCID: PMC10002282 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In June 2021, the world was informed about a new drug for Alzheimer's disease approved by the FDA. Aducanumab (BIIB037, ADU), being a monoclonal antibody IgG1, is the newest AD treatment. The activity of the drug is targeted towards amyloid β, which is considered one of the main causes of Alzheimer's disease. Clinical trials have revealed time- and dose-dependent activity towards Aβ reduction, as well as cognition improvement. Biogen, the company responsible for conducting research and introducing the drug to the market, presents the drug as a solution to cognitive impairment, but its limitations, costs, and side effects are controversial. The framework of the paper focuses on the mechanism of aducanumab's action along with the positive and negative sides of the therapy. The review presents the basis of the amyloid hypothesis that is the cornerstone of therapy, as well as the latest information about aducanumab, its mechanism of action, and the possibility of the use of the drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Wojtunik-Kulesza
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Monika Rudkowska
- Independent Laboratory of Behavioral Studies, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
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23
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Wang J, Jin C, Zhou J, Zhou R, Tian M, Lee HJ, Zhang H. PET molecular imaging for pathophysiological visualization in Alzheimer's disease. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2023; 50:765-783. [PMID: 36372804 PMCID: PMC9852140 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-022-05999-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common dementia worldwide. The exact etiology of AD is unclear as yet, and no effective treatments are currently available, making AD a tremendous burden posed on the whole society. As AD is a multifaceted and heterogeneous disease, and most biomarkers are dynamic in the course of AD, a range of biomarkers should be established to evaluate the severity and prognosis. Positron emission tomography (PET) offers a great opportunity to visualize AD from diverse perspectives by using radiolabeled agents involved in various pathophysiological processes; PET imaging technique helps to explore the pathomechanisms of AD comprehensively and find out the most appropriate biomarker in each AD phase, leading to a better evaluation of the disease. In this review, we discuss the application of PET in the course of AD and summarized radiolabeled compounds with favorable imaging characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- grid.412465.0Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009 Zhejiang China ,grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XInstitute of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009 Zhejiang China ,Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Imaging of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310009 Zhejiang China
| | - Chentao Jin
- grid.412465.0Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009 Zhejiang China
| | - Jinyun Zhou
- grid.412465.0Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009 Zhejiang China
| | - Rui Zhou
- grid.412465.0Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009 Zhejiang China
| | - Mei Tian
- grid.412465.0Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009 Zhejiang China ,grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XInstitute of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009 Zhejiang China ,Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Imaging of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310009 Zhejiang China
| | - Hyeon Jeong Lee
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XCollege of Biomedical Engineering and Instrument Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang China
| | - Hong Zhang
- grid.412465.0Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009 Zhejiang China ,grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XInstitute of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009 Zhejiang China ,Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Imaging of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310009 Zhejiang China ,grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XCollege of Biomedical Engineering and Instrument Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang China ,grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XKey Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310014 Zhejiang China
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24
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Khalifa J, Bourgault S, Gaudreault R. Interactions of Polyphenolic Gallotannins with Amyloidogenic Polypeptides Associated with Alzheimer's Disease: From Molecular Insights to Physiological Significance. Curr Alzheimer Res 2023; 20:603-617. [PMID: 38270140 DOI: 10.2174/0115672050277001231213073043] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Polyphenols are natural compounds abundantly found in plants. They are known for their numerous benefits to human health, including antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory activities. Interestingly, many studies have revealed that polyphenols can also modulate the formation of amyloid fibrils associated with disease states and can prevent the formation of cytotoxic oligomer species. In this review, we underline the numerous effects of four hydrolysable gallotannins (HGTs) with high conformational flexibility, low toxicity, and multi-targeticity, e.g., tannic acid, pentagalloyl glucose, corilagin, and 1,3,6-tri-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose, on the aggregation of amyloidogenic proteins associated with the Alzheimer's Disease (AD). These HGTs have demonstrated interesting abilities to reduce, at different levels, the formation of amyloid fibrils involved in AD, including those assembled from the amyloid β-peptide, the tubulin-associated unit, and the islet amyloid polypeptide. HGTs were also shown to disassemble pre-formed fibrils and to diminish cognitive decline in mice. Finally, this manuscript highlights the importance of further investigating these naturally occurring HGTs as promising scaffolds to design molecules that can interfere with the formation of proteotoxic oligomers and aggregates associated with AD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihane Khalifa
- Département de Chimie, Université du Québec à Montréal, 2101 Rue Jeanne-Mance, Montréal, QC, H2X 2J6, Canada
- Quebec Network for Research on Protein Function, Engineering and Applications, PROTEO, Canada
- Quebec Centre for Advanced Materials (QCAM), 3420 University Street, Montréal, QC, H2X 3Y7, Canada
| | - Steve Bourgault
- Département de Chimie, Université du Québec à Montréal, 2101 Rue Jeanne-Mance, Montréal, QC, H2X 2J6, Canada
- Quebec Network for Research on Protein Function, Engineering and Applications, PROTEO, Canada
| | - Roger Gaudreault
- Département de Chimie, Université du Québec à Montréal, 2101 Rue Jeanne-Mance, Montréal, QC, H2X 2J6, Canada
- Quebec Centre for Advanced Materials (QCAM), 3420 University Street, Montréal, QC, H2X 3Y7, Canada
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25
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Monteiro KLC, Dos Santos Alcântara MG, Freire NML, Brandão EM, do Nascimento VL, Dos Santos Viana LM, de Aquino TM, da Silva-Júnior EF. BACE-1 Inhibitors Targeting Alzheimer's Disease. Curr Alzheimer Res 2023; 20:131-148. [PMID: 37309767 DOI: 10.2174/1567205020666230612155953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) is the main event related to Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression. Over the years, several disease-modulating approaches have been reported, but without clinical success. The amyloid cascade hypothesis evolved and proposed essential targets such as tau protein aggregation and modulation of β-secretase (β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 - BACE-1) and γ-secretase proteases. BACE-1 cuts the amyloid precursor protein (APP) to release the C99 fragment, giving rise to several Aβ peptide species during the subsequent γ-secretase cleavage. In this way, BACE-1 has emerged as a clinically validated and attractive target in medicinal chemistry, as it plays a crucial role in the rate of Aβ generation. In this review, we report the main results of candidates in clinical trials such as E2609, MK8931, and AZD-3293, in addition to highlighting the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic-related effects of the inhibitors already reported. The current status of developing new peptidomimetic, non-peptidomimetic, naturally occurring, and other class inhibitors are demonstrated, considering their main limitations and lessons learned. The goal is to provide a broad and complete approach to the subject, exploring new chemical classes and perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadja Luana Chagas Monteiro
- Research Group on Therapeutic Strategies - GPET, Laboratory of Synthesis and Research in Medicinal Chemistry - LSPMED, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, Lourival Melo Mota Avenue, 57072-970, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Marcone Gomes Dos Santos Alcântara
- Research Group on Therapeutic Strategies - GPET, Laboratory of Synthesis and Research in Medicinal Chemistry - LSPMED, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, Lourival Melo Mota Avenue, 57072-970, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Nathalia Monteiro Lins Freire
- Research Group on Therapeutic Strategies - GPET, Laboratory of Synthesis and Research in Medicinal Chemistry - LSPMED, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, Lourival Melo Mota Avenue, 57072-970, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Esaú Marques Brandão
- Research Group on Therapeutic Strategies - GPET, Laboratory of Synthesis and Research in Medicinal Chemistry - LSPMED, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, Lourival Melo Mota Avenue, 57072-970, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Lima do Nascimento
- Research Group on Therapeutic Strategies - GPET, Laboratory of Synthesis and Research in Medicinal Chemistry - LSPMED, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, Lourival Melo Mota Avenue, 57072-970, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Líbni Maísa Dos Santos Viana
- Research Group on Therapeutic Strategies - GPET, Laboratory of Synthesis and Research in Medicinal Chemistry - LSPMED, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, Lourival Melo Mota Avenue, 57072-970, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Thiago Mendonça de Aquino
- Research Group on Therapeutic Strategies - GPET, Laboratory of Synthesis and Research in Medicinal Chemistry - LSPMED, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, Lourival Melo Mota Avenue, 57072-970, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Edeildo Ferreira da Silva-Júnior
- Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, Lourival Melo Mota Avenue, 57072-970, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
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26
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Zhang R, Song Y, Su X. Necroptosis and Alzheimer's Disease: Pathogenic Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 94:S367-S386. [PMID: 36463451 PMCID: PMC10473100 DOI: 10.3233/jad-220809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is considered to be the most common neurodegenerative disease, with clinical symptoms encompassing progressive memory loss and cognitive impairment. Necroptosis is a form of programmed necrosis that promotes cell death and neuroinflammation, which further mediates the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative diseases, especially AD. Current evidence has strongly suggested that necroptosis is activated in AD brains, resulting in neuronal death and cognitive impairment. We searched the PubMed database, screening all articles published before September 28, 2022 related to necroptosis in the context of AD pathology. The keywords in the search included: "necroptosis", "Alzheimer's disease", "signaling pathways", "Aβ", Aβo", "Tau", "p-Tau", "neuronal death", "BBB damage", "neuroinflammation", "microglia", "mitochondrial dysfunction", "granulovacuolar degeneration", "synaptic loss", "axonal degeneration", "Nec-1", "Nec-1s", "GSK872", "NSA", "OGA", "RIPK1", "RIPK3", and "MLKL". Results show that necroptosis has been involved in multiple pathological processes of AD, including amyloid-β aggregation, Tau accumulation, neuronal death, and blood-brain barrier damage, etc. More importantly, existing research on AD necroptosis interventions, including drug intervention and potential gene targets, as well as its current clinical development status, was discussed. Finally, the issues pertaining to necroptosis in AD were presented. Accordingly, this review may provide further insight into clinical perspectives and challenges for the future treatment of AD by targeting the necroptosis pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruxin Zhang
- Linfen People’s Hospital, Linfen, Shanxi, China
| | | | - Xuefeng Su
- Linfen People’s Hospital, Linfen, Shanxi, China
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27
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Condello C, Merz GE, Aoyagi A, DeGrado WF, Prusiner SB. Aβ and Tau Prions Causing Alzheimer's Disease. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2561:293-337. [PMID: 36399277 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2655-9_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Studies show that patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) have both Aβ and tau prions, and thus, AD is a double-prion disease. AD patients with the greatest longevity exhibited low levels of both Aβ and tau prions; tau prions were nearly absent in the brains of almost half of the patients who lived beyond 80 years of age. Using cellular bioassays for prions in postmortem samples, we found that both Aβ and tau proteins misfold into prions leading to AD, which is either a sporadic or familial dementing disorder. Although AD is transmissible experimentally, there is no evidence that AD is either communicable or contagious. Since the progression of AD correlates poorly with insoluble Aβ in the central nervous system (CNS), it was difficult to distinguish between inert amyloids and Aβ prions. To measure the progression of AD, we devised rapid bioassays to measure the abundance of isoform-specific Aβ prions in the brains of transgenic (Tg) mice and in postmortem human CNS samples from AD victims and people who died of other neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). We found significant correlations between the longevity of individuals with AD, sex, and genetic background, despite the fact that all postmortem brain tissue had essentially the same confirmed neuropathology.Although brains from all AD patients had measurable levels of Aβ prions at death, the oldest individuals had lower Aβ prion levels than the younger ones. Additionally, the long-lived individuals had low tau prion levels that correlated with the extent of phosphorylated tau (p-tau). Unexpectedly, a longevity-dependent decrease in tau prions was found in spite of increasing amounts of total insoluble tau. When corrected for the abundance of insoluble tau, the tau prion levels decreased exponentially with respect to the age at death with a half-time of approximately one decade, and this correlated with the abundance of phosphorylated tau.Even though our findings with tau prions were not unexpected, they were counterintuitive; thus, tau phosphorylation and tau prion activity decreased exponentially with longevity in patients with AD ranging from ages 37 to 99 years. Our findings demonstrated an inverse correlation between longevity in AD patients and the abundance of neurotoxic tau prions. Moreover, our discovery may have profound implications for the selection of phenotypically distinct patient populations and the development of diagnostics and effective therapeutics for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Condello
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Gregory E Merz
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Atsushi Aoyagi
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
| | - William F DeGrado
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Stanley B Prusiner
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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28
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Experimental evidence for temporal uncoupling of brain Aβ deposition and neurodegenerative sequelae. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7333. [PMID: 36443293 PMCID: PMC9705543 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34538-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain Aβ deposition is a key early event in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer´s disease (AD), but the long presymptomatic phase and poor correlation between Aβ deposition and clinical symptoms remain puzzling. To elucidate the dependency of downstream pathologies on Aβ, we analyzed the trajectories of cerebral Aβ accumulation, Aβ seeding activity, and neurofilament light chain (NfL) in the CSF (a biomarker of neurodegeneration) in Aβ-precursor protein transgenic mice. We find that Aβ deposition increases linearly until it reaches an apparent plateau at a late age, while Aβ seeding activity increases more rapidly and reaches a plateau earlier, coinciding with the onset of a robust increase of CSF NfL. Short-term inhibition of Aβ generation in amyloid-laden mice reduced Aβ deposition and associated glial changes, but failed to reduce Aβ seeding activity, and CSF NfL continued to increase although at a slower pace. When short-term or long-term inhibition of Aβ generation was started at pre-amyloid stages, CSF NfL did not increase despite some Aβ deposition, microglial activation, and robust brain Aβ seeding activity. A dissociation of Aβ load and CSF NfL trajectories was also found in familial AD, consistent with the view that Aβ aggregation is not kinetically coupled to neurotoxicity. Rather, neurodegeneration starts when Aβ seeding activity is saturated and before Aβ deposition reaches critical (half-maximal) levels, a phenomenon reminiscent of the two pathogenic phases in prion disease.
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29
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Di Scala C, Armstrong N, Chahinian H, Chabrière E, Fantini J, Yahi N. AmyP53, a Therapeutic Peptide Candidate for the Treatment of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease: Safety, Stability, Pharmacokinetics Parameters and Nose-to Brain Delivery. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113383. [PMID: 36362170 PMCID: PMC9654333 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders are a major public health issue. Despite decades of research efforts, we are still seeking an efficient cure for these pathologies. The initial paradigm of large aggregates of amyloid proteins (amyloid plaques, Lewis bodies) as the root cause of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases has been mostly dismissed. Instead, membrane-bound oligomers forming Ca2+-permeable amyloid pores are now considered appropriate targets for these diseases. Over the last 20 years, our group deciphered the molecular mechanisms of amyloid pore formation, which appeared to involve a common pathway for all amyloid proteins, including Aβ (Alzheimer) and α-synuclein (Parkinson). We then designed a short peptide (AmyP53), which prevents amyloid pore formation by targeting gangliosides, the plasma membrane receptors of amyloid proteins. Herein, we show that aqueous solutions of AmyP53 are remarkably stable upon storage at temperatures up to 45 °C for several months. AmyP53 appeared to be more stable in whole blood than in plasma. Pharmacokinetics studies in rats demonstrated that the peptide can rapidly and safely reach the brain after intranasal administration. The data suggest both the direct transport of AmyP53 via the olfactory bulb (and/or the trigeminal nerve) and an indirect transport via the circulation and the blood–brain barrier. In vitro experiments confirmed that AmyP53 is as active as cargo peptides in crossing the blood–brain barrier, consistent with its amino acid sequence specificities and physicochemical properties. Overall, these data open a route for the use of a nasal spray formulation of AmyP53 for the prevention and/or treatment of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases in future clinical trials in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coralie Di Scala
- Neuroscience Center—HiLIFE, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Nicholas Armstrong
- IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU Méditerranée Infection, Aix Marseille University, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Henri Chahinian
- INSERM UMR_S 1072, Aix Marseille University, 13015 Marseille, France
| | - Eric Chabrière
- IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU Méditerranée Infection, Aix Marseille University, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Jacques Fantini
- INSERM UMR_S 1072, Aix Marseille University, 13015 Marseille, France
| | - Nouara Yahi
- INSERM UMR_S 1072, Aix Marseille University, 13015 Marseille, France
- Correspondence:
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Schlein E, Syvänen S, Rokka J, Gustavsson T, Rossin R, Robillard M, Eriksson J, Sehlin D. Functionalization of Radiolabeled Antibodies to Enhance Peripheral Clearance for High Contrast Brain Imaging. Mol Pharm 2022; 19:4111-4122. [PMID: 36201682 PMCID: PMC9644377 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.2c00536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
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Small molecule imaging
agents such as [11C]PiB, which
bind to the core of insoluble amyloid-β (Aβ) fibrils,
are useful tools in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) research, diagnostics,
and drug development. However, the [11C]PiB PET signal
saturates early in the disease progression and does not detect soluble
or diffuse Aβ pathology which are believed to play important
roles in the disease progression. Antibodies, modified into a bispecific
format to enter the brain via receptor-mediated transcytosis, could
be a suitable alternative because of their diversity and high specificity
for their target. However, the circulation time of these antibodies
is long, resulting in an extended exposure to radiation and low imaging
contrast. Here, we explore two alternative strategies to enhance imaging
contrast by increasing clearance of the antibody ligand from blood.
The bispecific Aβ targeting antibody RmAb158-scFv8D3 and the
monospecific RmAb158 were radiolabeled and functionalized with either
α-d-mannopyranosylphenyl isothiocyanate (mannose) or
with trans-cyclooctene (TCO). While mannose can directly
mediate antibody clearance via the liver, TCO-modified antibody clearance
was induced by injection of a tetrazine-functionalized, liver-targeting
clearing agent (CA). In vivo experiments in wild type and AD transgenic
mice demonstrated the ability of both strategies to drastically shorten
the circulation time of RmAb158, while they had limited effect on
the bispecific variant RmAb158-8D3. Furthermore, single photon emission
computed tomography imaging with TCO-[125I]I-RmAb158 in
AD mice showed higher contrast 1 day after injection of the tetrazine-functionalized
CA. In conclusion, strategies to enhance the clearance of antibody-based
imaging ligands could allow imaging at earlier time points and thereby
open the possibility to combine antibodies with short-lived radionuclides
such as fluorine-18.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Schlein
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Stina Syvänen
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Johanna Rokka
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Tobias Gustavsson
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Raffaella Rossin
- Tagworks Pharmaceuticals, Toernooiveld 1, 6525 ED Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Marc Robillard
- Tagworks Pharmaceuticals, Toernooiveld 1, 6525 ED Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Jonas Eriksson
- PET Centre, Uppsala University Hospital, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Dag Sehlin
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
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31
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Dragović IR, Popović N, Ždralević M, Radulović L, Radunović M. Inflammation-Related microRNAs-146a and -155 Are Upregulated in Mild Cognitive Impairment Subjects Among Older Age Population in Montenegro. J Alzheimers Dis 2022; 90:625-638. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-220676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Pathological and clinical features of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are in temporal discrepancy and currently accepted clinical tests provide the diagnosis decades after the initial pathophysiological events. In order to enable a more timely detection of AD, research efforts are directed to identification of biomarkers of the early symptomatic stage. Neuroinflammatory signaling pathways and inflammation-related microRNAs (miRNAs) could possibly have a crucial role in AD, making them promising potential biomarkers. Objective: We examined the expression of circulatory miRNAs with a documented role in AD pathophysiology: miR-29a/b, miR-101, miR-125b, miR-146a, and miR-155 in the plasma of AD patients (AD, n = 12), people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI, n = 9), and normocognitive group (CTRL, n = 18). We hypothesized that these miRNA expression levels could correlate with the level of participants’ cognitive decline. Methods: The study participants completed the standardized interview, neurological examination, neuropsychological assessment, and biochemical analyses. miRNA expression levels were assessed by RT-PCR. Results: Neurological and laboratory findings could not account for MCI, but miR-146a and -155 were upregulated in the MCI group compared to the control. miR-146a, known to mediate early neuroinflammatory AD events, was also upregulated in the MCI compared to AD group. ROC curve analysis for miRNA-146a showed 77.8% sensitivity and 94.4% specificity and 66.7% sensitivity and 88.9% specificity for miR-155. Conclusion: Determination of circulatory inflamma-miRs-146a and -155 expression, together with neuropsychological screening, could become a non-invasive tool for detecting individuals with an increased risk for AD, but research on a larger cohort is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nataša Popović
- University of Montenegro, Faculty of Medicine, Podgorica, Montenegro
| | - Maša Ždralević
- University of Montenegro, Faculty of Medicine, Podgorica, Montenegro
| | - Ljiljana Radulović
- Clinical Center of Montenegro, Department of Neurology, Podgorica, Montenegro
| | - Miodrag Radunović
- University of Montenegro, Faculty of Medicine, Podgorica, Montenegro
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32
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Rofo F, Meier SR, Metzendorf NG, Morrison JI, Petrovic A, Syvänen S, Sehlin D, Hultqvist G. A Brain-Targeting Bispecific-Multivalent Antibody Clears Soluble Amyloid-Beta Aggregates in Alzheimer's Disease Mice. Neurotherapeutics 2022; 19:1588-1602. [PMID: 35939261 PMCID: PMC9606191 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-022-01283-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyloid-β (Aβ) oligomers and protofibrils are suggested to be the most neurotoxic Aβ species in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Hence, antibodies with strong and selective binding to these soluble Aβ aggregates are of therapeutic potential. We have recently introduced HexaRmAb158, a multivalent antibody with additional Aβ-binding sites in the form of single-chain fragment variables (scFv) on the N-terminal ends of Aβ protofibril selective antibody (RmAb158). Due to the additional binding sites and the short distance between them, HexaRmAb158 displayed a slow dissociation from protofibrils and strong binding to oligomers in vitro. In the current study, we aimed at investigating the therapeutic potential of this antibody format in vivo using mouse models of AD. To enhance BBB delivery, the transferrin receptor (TfR) binding moiety (scFv8D3) was added, forming the bispecific-multivalent antibody (HexaRmAb158-scFv8D3). The new antibody displayed a weaker TfR binding compared to the previously developed RmAb158-scFv8D3 and was less efficiently transcytosed in a cell-based BBB model. HexaRmAb158 detected soluble Aβ aggregates derived from brains of tg-ArcSwe and AppNL-G-F mice more efficiently compared to RmAb158. When intravenously injected, HexaRmAb158-scFv8D3 was actively transported over the BBB into the brain in vivo. Brain uptake was marginally lower than that of RmAb158-scFv8D3, but significantly higher than observed for conventional IgG antibodies. Both antibody formats displayed similar brain retention (72 h post injection) and equal capacity in clearing soluble Aβ aggregates in tg-ArcSwe mice. In conclusion, we demonstrate a bispecific-multivalent antibody format capable of passing the BBB and targeting a wide-range of sizes of soluble Aβ aggregates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadi Rofo
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, 75124, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Silvio R Meier
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, 75185, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Jamie I Morrison
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, 75124, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Alex Petrovic
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, 75124, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Stina Syvänen
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, 75185, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Dag Sehlin
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, 75185, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Greta Hultqvist
- Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, 75124, Uppsala, Sweden.
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33
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Bioactive human Alzheimer brain soluble Aβ: pathophysiology and therapeutic opportunities. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:3182-3191. [PMID: 35484241 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01589-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The accumulation of amyloid-β protein (Aβ) plays an early role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The precise mechanism of how Aβ accumulation leads to synaptic dysfunction and cognitive impairment remains unclear but is likely due to small soluble oligomers of Aβ (oAβ). Most studies have used chemical synthetic or cell-secreted Aβ oligomers to study their pathogenic mechanisms, but the Aβ derived from human AD brain tissue is less well characterized. Here we review updated knowledge on the extraction and characterization of bioactive human AD brain oAβ and the mechanisms by which they cause hippocampal synaptic dysfunction. Human AD brain-derived oAβ can impair hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) and enhance long-term depression (LTD). Many studies suggest that oAβ may directly disrupt neuronal NMDA receptors, AMPA receptors and metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). oAβ also impairs astrocytic synaptic functions, including glutamate uptake, D-serine release, and NMDA receptor function. We also discuss oAβ-induced neuronal hyperexcitation. These results may suggest a multi-target approach for the treatment of AD, including both oAβ neutralization and reversal of glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity.
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34
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Kumari A, Rahaman A, Zeng XA, Farooq MA, Huang Y, Yao R, Ali M, Ishrat R, Ali R. Temporal Cortex Microarray Analysis Revealed Impaired Ribosomal Biogenesis and Hyperactivity of the Glutamatergic System: An Early Signature of Asymptomatic Alzheimer's Disease. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:966877. [PMID: 35958988 PMCID: PMC9359077 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.966877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic aging is regarded as asymptomatic AD when there is no cognitive deficit except for neuropathology consistent with Alzheimer's disease. These individuals are highly susceptible to developing AD. Braak and Braak's theory specific to tau pathology illustrates that the brain's temporal cortex region is an initiation site for early AD progression. So, the hub gene analysis of this region may reveal early altered biological cascades that may be helpful to alleviate AD in an early stage. Meanwhile, cognitive processing also drags its attention because cognitive impairment is the ultimate result of AD. Therefore, this study aimed to explore changes in gene expression of aged control, asymptomatic AD (AsymAD), and symptomatic AD (symAD) in the temporal cortex region. We used microarray data sets to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with the help of the R programming interface. Further, we constructed the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network by performing the STRING plugin in Cytoscape and determined the hub genes via the CytoHubba plugin. Furthermore, we conducted Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis via Bioconductor's cluster profile package. Resultant, the AsymAD transcriptome revealed the early-stage changes of glutamatergic hyperexcitability. Whereas the connectivity of major hub genes in this network indicates a shift from initially reduced rRNA biosynthesis in the AsymAD group to impaired protein synthesis in the symAD group. Both share the phenomenon of breaking tight junctions and others. In conclusion, this study offers new understandings of the early biological vicissitudes that occur in the brain before the manifestation of symAD and gives new promising therapeutic targets for early AD intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Kumari
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Food Intelligent Manufacturing, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Overseas Expertise Introduction Centre for Discipline Innovation of Food Nutrition and Human Health (111 Centre), Guangzhou, China
| | - Abdul Rahaman
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Food Intelligent Manufacturing, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Overseas Expertise Introduction Centre for Discipline Innovation of Food Nutrition and Human Health (111 Centre), Guangzhou, China
- Abdul Rahaman
| | - Xin-An Zeng
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Food Intelligent Manufacturing, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Overseas Expertise Introduction Centre for Discipline Innovation of Food Nutrition and Human Health (111 Centre), Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xin-An Zeng
| | - Muhammad Adil Farooq
- Institute of Food Science and Technology, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan
| | - Yanyan Huang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Food Intelligent Manufacturing, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Runyu Yao
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Overseas Expertise Introduction Centre for Discipline Innovation of Food Nutrition and Human Health (111 Centre), Guangzhou, China
| | - Murtaza Ali
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Food Intelligent Manufacturing, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Overseas Expertise Introduction Centre for Discipline Innovation of Food Nutrition and Human Health (111 Centre), Guangzhou, China
| | - Romana Ishrat
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
- Romana Ishrat
| | - Rafat Ali
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
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35
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Bilgel M, Wong DF, Moghekar AR, Ferrucci L, Resnick SM. Causal links among amyloid, tau, and neurodegeneration. Brain Commun 2022; 4:fcac193. [PMID: 35938073 PMCID: PMC9345312 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcac193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyloid-β pathology is associated with greater tau pathology and facilitates tau propagation from the medial temporal lobe to the neocortex, where tau is closely associated with local neurodegeneration. The degree of the involvement of amyloid-β versus existing tau pathology in tau propagation and neurodegeneration has not been fully elucidated in human studies. Careful quantification of these effects can inform the development and timing of therapeutic interventions. We conducted causal mediation analyses to investigate the relative contributions of amyloid-β and existing tau to tau propagation and neurodegeneration in two longitudinal studies of individuals without dementia: the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (N = 103, age range 57-96) and the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (N = 122, age range 56-92). As proxies of neurodegeneration, we investigated cerebral blood flow, glucose metabolism, and regional volume. We first confirmed that amyloid-β moderates the association between tau in the entorhinal cortex and in the inferior temporal gyrus, a neocortical region exhibiting early tau pathology (amyloid group × entorhinal tau interaction term β = 0.488, standard error [SE] = 0.126, P < 0.001 in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging; β = 0.619, SE = 0.145, P < 0.001 in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative). In causal mediation analyses accounting for this facilitating effect of amyloid, amyloid positivity had a statistically significant direct effect on inferior temporal tau as well as an indirect effect via entorhinal tau (average direct effect =0.47, P < 0.001 and average causal mediation effect =0.44, P = 0.0028 in Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging; average direct effect =0.43, P = 0.004 and average causal mediation effect =0.267, P = 0.0088 in Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative). Entorhinal tau mediated up to 48% of the total effect of amyloid on inferior temporal tau. Higher inferior temporal tau was associated with lower colocalized cerebral blood flow, glucose metabolism, and regional volume, whereas amyloid had only an indirect effect on these measures via tau, implying tau as the primary driver of neurodegeneration (amyloid-cerebral blood flow average causal mediation effect =-0.28, P = 0.021 in Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging; amyloid-volume average causal mediation effect =-0.24, P < 0.001 in Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative). Our findings suggest targeting amyloid or medial temporal lobe tau might slow down neocortical spread of tau and subsequent neurodegeneration, but a combination therapy may yield better outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Bilgel
- Correspondence to: Murat Bilgel Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience National Institute on Aging, 251 Bayview Blvd Suite 100, Rm 04B329, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA E-mail:
| | - Dean F Wong
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Abhay R Moghekar
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Luigi Ferrucci
- Longitudinal Studies Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Susan M Resnick
- Brain Aging and Behavior Section, Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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36
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Salvadores N, Moreno-Gonzalez I, Gamez N, Quiroz G, Vegas-Gomez L, Escandón M, Jimenez S, Vitorica J, Gutierrez A, Soto C, Court FA. Aβ oligomers trigger necroptosis-mediated neurodegeneration via microglia activation in Alzheimer's disease. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2022; 10:31. [PMID: 35264247 PMCID: PMC8908658 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-022-01332-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a major adult-onset neurodegenerative condition with no available treatment. Compelling reports point amyloid-β (Aβ) as the main etiologic agent that triggers AD. Although there is extensive evidence of detrimental crosstalk between Aβ and microglia that contributes to neuroinflammation in AD, the exact mechanism leading to neuron death remains unknown. Using postmortem human AD brain tissue, we show that Aβ pathology is associated with the necroptosis effector pMLKL. Moreover, we found that the burden of Aβ oligomers (Aβo) correlates with the expression of key markers of necroptosis activation. Additionally, inhibition of necroptosis by pharmacological or genetic means, reduce neurodegeneration and memory impairment triggered by Aβo in mice. Since microglial activation is emerging as a central driver for AD pathogenesis, we then tested the contribution of microglia to the mechanism of Aβo-mediated necroptosis activation in neurons. Using an in vitro model, we show that conditioned medium from Aβo-stimulated microglia elicited necroptosis in neurons through activation of TNF-α signaling, triggering extensive neurodegeneration. Notably, necroptosis inhibition provided significant neuronal protection. Together, these findings suggest that Aβo-mediated microglia stimulation in AD contributes to necroptosis activation in neurons and neurodegeneration. As necroptosis is a druggable degenerative mechanism, our findings might have important therapeutic implications to prevent the progression of AD.
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37
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Smit T, Ormel PR, Sluijs JA, Hulshof LA, Middeldorp J, de Witte LD, Hol EM, Donega V. Transcriptomic and functional analysis of Aβ 1-42 oligomer-stimulated human monocyte-derived microglia-like cells. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 100:219-230. [PMID: 34896594 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of microglial function contributes to Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. Several genetic and transcriptome studies have revealed microglia specific genetic risk factors, and changes in microglia expression profiles in AD pathogenesis, viz. the human-Alzheimer's microglia/myeloid (HAM) profile in AD patients and the disease-associated microglia profile (DAM) in AD mouse models. The transcriptional changes involve genes in immune and inflammatory pathways, and in pathways associated with Aβ clearance. Aβ oligomers have been suggested to be the initial trigger of microglia activation in AD. To study the direct response to Aβ oligomers exposure, we assessed changes in gene expression in an in vitro model for microglia, the human monocyte-derived microglial-like (MDMi) cells. We confirmed the initiation of an inflammatory profile following LPS stimulation, based on increased expression of IL1B, IL6, and TNFα. In contrast, the Aβ1-42 oligomers did not induce an inflammatory profile or a classical HAM profile. Interestingly, we observed a specific increase in the expression of metallothioneins in the Aβ1-42 oligomer treated MDMi cells. Metallothioneins are involved in metal ion regulation, protection against reactive oxygen species, and have anti-inflammatory properties. In conclusion, our data suggests that exposure to Aβ1-42 oligomers may initially trigger a protective response in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar Smit
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul R Ormel
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jacqueline A Sluijs
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lianne A Hulshof
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jinte Middeldorp
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Immunobiology, Biomedical Primate Research Centre, Rijswijk, The Netherlands
| | - Lot D de Witte
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elly M Hol
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Vanessa Donega
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
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38
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Azzaz F, Yahi N, Di Scala C, Chahinian H, Fantini J. Ganglioside binding domains in proteins: Physiological and pathological mechanisms. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2022; 128:289-324. [PMID: 35034721 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2021.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Gangliosides are anionic lipids that form condensed membrane clusters (lipid rafts) and exert major regulatory functions on a wide range of proteins. In this review, we propose a new view of the structural features of gangliosides with special emphasis on emerging properties associated with protein binding modes. We analyze the different possibilities of molecular associations of gangliosides in lipid rafts and the role of cholesterol in this organization. We are particularly interested in amide groups of N-acetylated sugars which make it possible to neutralize the negative charge of the carboxylate group of sialic acids. We refer to this effect as "NH trick" and we demonstrate that it is operative in GM1, GD1a, GD1b and GT1b gangliosides. The NH trick is key to understand the different topologies adopted by gangliosides (chalice-like at the edge of lipid rafts, condensed clusters in central areas) and their impact on protein binding. We define three major types of ganglioside-binding domains (GBDs): α-helical, loop shaped, and large flat surface. We describe the mode of interaction of each GBD with typical reference proteins: synaptotagmin, 5HT1A receptor, cholera and botulinum toxins, HIV-1 surface envelope glycoprotein gp120, SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, cellular prion protein, Alzheimer's β-amyloid peptide and Parkinson's disease associated α-synuclein. We discuss the common mechanisms and peculiarities of protein binding to gangliosides in the light of physiological and pathological conditions. We anticipate that innovative ganglioside-based therapies will soon show an exponential growth for the treatment of cancer, microbial infections, and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fodil Azzaz
- INSERM UMR_S 1072, Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Nouara Yahi
- INSERM UMR_S 1072, Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Coralie Di Scala
- Neuroscience Center-HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Henri Chahinian
- INSERM UMR_S 1072, Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Jacques Fantini
- INSERM UMR_S 1072, Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France.
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39
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Viola KL, Bicca MA, Bebenek AM, Kranz DL, Nandwana V, Waters EA, Haney CR, Lee M, Gupta A, Brahmbhatt Z, Huang W, Chang TT, Peck A, Valdez C, Dravid VP, Klein WL. The Therapeutic and Diagnostic Potential of Amyloid β Oligomers Selective Antibodies to Treat Alzheimer's Disease. Front Neurosci 2022; 15:768646. [PMID: 35046767 PMCID: PMC8761808 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.768646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Improvements have been made in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), manifesting mostly in the development of in vivo imaging methods that allow for the detection of pathological changes in AD by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) scans. Many of these imaging methods, however, use agents that probe amyloid fibrils and plaques–species that do not correlate well with disease progression and are not present at the earliest stages of the disease. Amyloid β oligomers (AβOs), rather, are now widely accepted as the Aβ species most germane to AD onset and progression. Here we report evidence further supporting the role of AβOs as pathological instigators of AD and introduce promising anti-AβO diagnostic probes capable of distinguishing the 5xFAD mouse model from wild type mice by PET and MRI. In a developmental study, Aβ oligomers in 5xFAD mice were found to appear at 3 months of age, just prior to the onset of memory dysfunction, and spread as memory worsened. The increase of AβOs is prominent in the subiculum and correlates with concomitant development of reactive astrocytosis. The impact of these AβOs on memory is in harmony with findings that intraventricular injection of synthetic AβOs into wild type mice induced hippocampal dependent memory dysfunction within 24 h. Compelling support for the conclusion that endogenous AβOs cause memory loss was found in experiments showing that intranasal inoculation of AβO-selective antibodies into 5xFAD mice completely restored memory function, measured 30–40 days post-inoculation. These antibodies, which were modified to give MRI and PET imaging probes, were able to distinguish 5xFAD mice from wild type littermates. These results provide strong support for the role of AβOs in instigating memory loss and salient AD neuropathology, and they demonstrate that AβO selective antibodies have potential both for therapeutics and for diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten L Viola
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Maira A Bicca
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Adrian M Bebenek
- Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, Aurora, IL, United States
| | - Daniel L Kranz
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Vikas Nandwana
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Emily A Waters
- Center for Advanced Molecular Imaging, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Chad R Haney
- Center for Advanced Molecular Imaging, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Maxwell Lee
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Abhay Gupta
- Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, Aurora, IL, United States
| | | | - Weijian Huang
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Ting-Tung Chang
- Small Animal Imaging Facility, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Laboratory of Translational Imaging, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Anderson Peck
- Small Animal Imaging Facility, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Laboratory of Translational Imaging, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Clarissa Valdez
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Vinayak P Dravid
- Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, Aurora, IL, United States
| | - William L Klein
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States.,Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
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Stern AM, Liu L, Jin S, Liu W, Meunier AL, Ericsson M, Miller MB, Batson M, Sun T, Kathuria S, Reczek D, Pradier L, Selkoe DJ. OUP accepted manuscript. Brain 2022; 145:2528-2540. [PMID: 35084489 PMCID: PMC9337809 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awac023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Aqueously soluble oligomers of amyloid-β peptide may be the principal neurotoxic forms of amyloid-β in Alzheimer’s disease, initiating downstream events that include tau hyperphosphorylation, neuritic/synaptic injury, microgliosis and neuron loss. Synthetic oligomeric amyloid-β has been studied extensively, but little is known about the biochemistry of natural oligomeric amyloid-β in human brain, even though it is more potent than simple synthetic peptides and comprises truncated and modified amyloid-β monomers. We hypothesized that monoclonal antibodies specific to neurotoxic oligomeric amyloid-β could be used to isolate it for further study. Here we report a unique human monoclonal antibody (B24) raised against synthetic oligomeric amyloid-β that potently prevents Alzheimer’s disease brain oligomeric amyloid-β-induced impairment of hippocampal long-term potentiation. B24 binds natural and synthetic oligomeric amyloid-β and a subset of amyloid plaques, but only in the presence of Ca2+. The amyloid-β N terminus is required for B24 binding. Hydroxyapatite chromatography revealed that natural oligomeric amyloid-β is highly avid for Ca2+. We took advantage of the reversible Ca2+-dependence of B24 binding to perform non-denaturing immunoaffinity isolation of oligomeric amyloid-β from Alzheimer’s disease brain-soluble extracts. Unexpectedly, the immunopurified material contained amyloid fibrils visualized by electron microscopy and amenable to further structural characterization. B24-purified human oligomeric amyloid-β inhibited mouse hippocampal long-term potentiation. These findings identify a calcium-dependent method for purifying bioactive brain oligomeric amyloid-β, at least some of which appears fibrillar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Stern
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 60 Fenwood Road Rm 10002Q, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Lei Liu
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 60 Fenwood Road Rm 10002Q, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Shanxue Jin
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 60 Fenwood Road Rm 10002Q, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Wen Liu
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 60 Fenwood Road Rm 10002Q, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Angela L Meunier
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 60 Fenwood Road Rm 10002Q, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Maria Ericsson
- Harvard Medical School Electron Microscopy Facility, Goldenson Building 323, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Michael B Miller
- Division of Neuropathology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Megan Batson
- Sanofi Corporation, 49 New York Avenue, Framingham, MA 01701, USA
| | - Tingwan Sun
- Sanofi Corporation, 49 New York Avenue, Framingham, MA 01701, USA
| | - Sagar Kathuria
- Sanofi Corporation, 49 New York Avenue, Framingham, MA 01701, USA
| | - David Reczek
- Sanofi Corporation, 49 New York Avenue, Framingham, MA 01701, USA
| | - Laurent Pradier
- Sanofi Corporation, 49 New York Avenue, Framingham, MA 01701, USA
| | - Dennis J Selkoe
- Correspondence to: Dennis J. Selkoe Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital 60 Fenwood Road Rm 10002Q Boston, MA 02115, USA E-mail:
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Jeremic D, Jiménez-Díaz L, Navarro-López JD. Past, present and future of therapeutic strategies against amyloid-β peptides in Alzheimer's disease: a systematic review. Ageing Res Rev 2021; 72:101496. [PMID: 34687956 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease in ageing, affecting around 46 million people worldwide but few treatments are currently available. The etiology of AD is still puzzling, and new drugs development and clinical trials have high failure rates. Urgent outline of an integral (multi-target) and effective treatment of AD is needed. Accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides is considered one of the fundamental neuropathological pillars of the disease, and its dyshomeostasis has shown a crucial role in AD onset. Therefore, many amyloid-targeted therapies have been investigated. Here, we will systematically review recent (from 2014) investigational, follow-up and review studies focused on anti-amyloid strategies to summarize and analyze their current clinical potential. Combination of anti-Aβ therapies with new developing early detection biomarkers and other therapeutic agents acting on early functional AD changes will be highlighted in this review. Near-term approval seems likely for several drugs acting against Aβ, with recent FDA approval of a monoclonal anti-Aβ oligomers antibody -aducanumab- raising hopes and controversies. We conclude that, development of oligomer-epitope specific Aβ treatment and implementation of multiple improved biomarkers and risk prediction methods allowing early detection, together with therapies acting on other factors such as hyperexcitability in early AD, could be the key to slowing this global pandemic.
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Stepanchuk AA, Barber PA, Lashley T, Joseph JT, Stys PK. Quantitative detection of grey and white matter amyloid pathology using a combination of K114 and CRANAD-3 fluorescence. Neurobiol Dis 2021; 161:105540. [PMID: 34751140 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2021.105540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that exacts a huge toll on the patient, the healthcare system and society in general. Abundance and morphology of protein aggregates such as amyloid β plaques and tau tangles, along with cortical atrophy and gliosis are used as measures to assess the changes in the brain induced by the disease. Not all of these parameters have a direct correlation with cognitive decline. Studies have shown that only particular protein conformers can be the main drivers of disease progression, and conventional approaches are unable to distinguish different conformations of disease-relevant proteins. METHODS AND RESULTS Using the fluorescent amyloid probes K114 and CRANAD-3 and spectral confocal microscopy, we examined formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded brain samples from different control and AD cases. Based on the emission spectra of the probes used in this study, we found that certain spectral signatures can be correlated with different aggregates formed by different proteins. The combination of spectral imaging and advanced image analysis tools allowed us to detect variability of protein deposits across the samples. CONCLUSION Our proposed method offers a quicker and easier neuropathological assessment of tissue samples, as well as introducing an additional parameter by which protein aggregates can be discriminated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiia A Stepanchuk
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Philip A Barber
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Tammaryn Lashley
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK; Queen Square Brain Bank for Neurological Disorders, Department of Clinical and Movement Neuroscience, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Jeffrey T Joseph
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Peter K Stys
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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Jiang H, Esparza TJ, Kummer TT, Brody DL. Unbiased high-content screening reveals Aβ- and tau-independent synaptotoxic activities in human brain homogenates from Alzheimer's patients and high-pathology controls. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259335. [PMID: 34748596 PMCID: PMC8575250 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is tightly correlated with synapse loss in vulnerable brain regions. It is assumed that specific molecular entities such as Aβ and tau cause synapse loss in AD, yet unbiased screens for synaptotoxic activities have not been performed. Here, we performed size exclusion chromatography on soluble human brain homogenates from AD cases, high pathology non-demented controls, and low pathology age-matched controls using our novel high content primary cultured neuron-based screening assay. Both presynaptic and postsynaptic toxicities were elevated in homogenates from AD cases and high pathology non-demented controls to a similar extent, with more modest synaptotoxic activities in homogenates from low pathology normal controls. Surprisingly, synaptotoxic activities were found in size fractions peaking between the 17–44 kDa size standards that did not match well with Aβ and tau immunoreactive species in these homogenates. The fractions containing previously identified high molecular weight soluble amyloid beta aggregates/”oligomers” were non-toxic in this assay. Furthermore, immunodepletion of Aβ and tau did not reduce synaptotoxic activity. This result contrasts with previous findings involving the same methods applied to 3xTg-AD mouse brain extracts. The nature of the synaptotoxic species has not been identified. Overall, our data indicates one or more potential Aβ and tau independent synaptotoxic activities in human AD brain homogenates. This result aligns well with the key role of synaptic loss in the early cognitive decline and may provide new insight into AD pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Thomas J. Esparza
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Terrance T. Kummer
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - David L. Brody
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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El-Battari A, Rodriguez L, Chahinian H, Delézay O, Fantini J, Yahi N, Di Scala C. Gene Therapy Strategy for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases Aimed at Preventing the Formation of Neurotoxic Oligomers in SH-SY5Y Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11550. [PMID: 34768981 PMCID: PMC8583875 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
We present here a gene therapy approach aimed at preventing the formation of Ca2+-permeable amyloid pore oligomers that are considered as the most neurotoxic structures in both Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Our study is based on the design of a small peptide inhibitor (AmyP53) that combines the ganglioside recognition properties of the β-amyloid peptide (Aβ, Alzheimer) and α-synuclein (α-syn, Parkinson). As gangliosides mediate the initial binding step of these amyloid proteins to lipid rafts of the brain cell membranes, AmyP53 blocks, at the earliest step, the Ca2+ cascade that leads to neurodegeneration. Using a lentivirus vector, we genetically modified brain cells to express the therapeutic coding sequence of AmyP53 in a secreted form, rendering these cells totally resistant to oligomer formation by either Aβ or α-syn. This protection was specific, as control mCherry-transfected cells remained fully sensitive to these oligomers. AmyP53 was secreted at therapeutic concentrations in the supernatant of cultured cells, so that the therapy was effective for both transfected cells and their neighbors. This study is the first to demonstrate that a unique gene therapy approach aimed at preventing the formation of neurotoxic oligomers by targeting brain gangliosides may be considered for the treatment of two major neurodegenerative disorders, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assou El-Battari
- INSERM UMR_S 1072, Aix-Marseille Université, 13015 Marseille, France; (A.E.-B.); (H.C.); (J.F.); (N.Y.)
| | - Léa Rodriguez
- CUO-Recherche, Département d’ophtalmologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval and Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada;
| | - Henri Chahinian
- INSERM UMR_S 1072, Aix-Marseille Université, 13015 Marseille, France; (A.E.-B.); (H.C.); (J.F.); (N.Y.)
| | - Olivier Delézay
- Faculté de Médecine, SAINBIOSE INSERM U1059, Campus Santé Innovations, 42270 St. Priest en Jarez, France;
| | - Jacques Fantini
- INSERM UMR_S 1072, Aix-Marseille Université, 13015 Marseille, France; (A.E.-B.); (H.C.); (J.F.); (N.Y.)
| | - Nouara Yahi
- INSERM UMR_S 1072, Aix-Marseille Université, 13015 Marseille, France; (A.E.-B.); (H.C.); (J.F.); (N.Y.)
| | - Coralie Di Scala
- Neuroscience Center—HiLIFE, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
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Hampel H, Hardy J, Blennow K, Chen C, Perry G, Kim SH, Villemagne VL, Aisen P, Vendruscolo M, Iwatsubo T, Masters CL, Cho M, Lannfelt L, Cummings JL, Vergallo A. The Amyloid-β Pathway in Alzheimer's Disease. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:5481-5503. [PMID: 34456336 PMCID: PMC8758495 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01249-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 445] [Impact Index Per Article: 148.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Breakthroughs in molecular medicine have positioned the amyloid-β (Aβ) pathway at the center of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathophysiology. While the detailed molecular mechanisms of the pathway and the spatial-temporal dynamics leading to synaptic failure, neurodegeneration, and clinical onset are still under intense investigation, the established biochemical alterations of the Aβ cycle remain the core biological hallmark of AD and are promising targets for the development of disease-modifying therapies. Here, we systematically review and update the vast state-of-the-art literature of Aβ science with evidence from basic research studies to human genetic and multi-modal biomarker investigations, which supports a crucial role of Aβ pathway dyshomeostasis in AD pathophysiological dynamics. We discuss the evidence highlighting a differentiated interaction of distinct Aβ species with other AD-related biological mechanisms, such as tau-mediated, neuroimmune and inflammatory changes, as well as a neurochemical imbalance. Through the lens of the latest development of multimodal in vivo biomarkers of AD, this cross-disciplinary review examines the compelling hypothesis- and data-driven rationale for Aβ-targeting therapeutic strategies in development for the early treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harald Hampel
- Eisai Inc., Neurology Business Group, Woodcliff Lake, NJ, USA.
| | - John Hardy
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL and Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kaj Blennow
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Christopher Chen
- Memory Aging and Cognition Centre, Departments of Pharmacology and Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - George Perry
- Department of Biology and Neurosciences Institute, University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Seung Hyun Kim
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Cell Therapy Center, Hanyang University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Victor L Villemagne
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul Aisen
- USC Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Michele Vendruscolo
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Takeshi Iwatsubo
- Department of Neuropathology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Colin L Masters
- Laureate Professor of Dementia Research, Florey Institute and The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Min Cho
- Eisai Inc., Neurology Business Group, Woodcliff Lake, NJ, USA
| | - Lars Lannfelt
- Uppsala University, Department of of Public Health/Geriatrics, Uppsala, Sweden
- BioArctic AB, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jeffrey L Cummings
- Chambers-Grundy Center for Transformative Neuroscience, Department of Brain Health, School of Integrated Health Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Andrea Vergallo
- Eisai Inc., Neurology Business Group, Woodcliff Lake, NJ, USA.
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Liu L, Kwak H, Lawton TL, Jin SX, Meunier AL, Dang Y, Ostaszewski B, Pietras AC, Stern AM, Selkoe DJ. An ultra-sensitive immunoassay detects and quantifies soluble Aβ oligomers in human plasma. Alzheimers Dement 2021; 18:1186-1202. [PMID: 34550630 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Evidence strongly suggests that soluble oligomers of amyloid beta protein (oAβ) help initiate the pathogenic cascade of Alzheimer's disease (AD). To date, there have been no validated assays specific for detecting and quantifying oAβ in human blood. METHODS We developed an ultrasensitive oAβ immunoassay using a novel capture antibody (71A1) with N-terminal antibody 3D6 for detection that specifically quantifies soluble oAβ in the human brain, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and plasma. RESULTS Two new antibodies (71A1; 1G5) are oAβ-selective, label Aβ plaques in non-fixed AD brain sections, and potently neutralize the synaptotoxicity of AD brain-derived oAβ. The 71A1/3D6 assay showed excellent dilution linearity in CSF and plasma without matrix effects, good spike recovery, and specific immunodepletion. DISCUSSION We have created a sensitive, high throughput, and inexpensive method to quantify synaptotoxic oAβ in human plasma for analyzing large cohorts of aged and AD subjects to assess the dynamics of this key pathogenic species and response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Liu
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, USA
| | - Hyunchang Kwak
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, USA
| | - Trebor L Lawton
- Abyssinia Biologics, LLC, 23 Cedar Point Rd, Durham, New Hampshire, 03824, USA
| | - Shan-Xue Jin
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, USA
| | - Angela L Meunier
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, USA
| | - Yifan Dang
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, USA
| | - Beth Ostaszewski
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, USA
| | - Alison C Pietras
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, USA
| | - Andrew M Stern
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, USA
| | - Dennis J Selkoe
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, USA
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Cerebrovascular alterations in NAFLD: Is it increasing our risk of Alzheimer's disease? Anal Biochem 2021; 636:114387. [PMID: 34537182 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2021.114387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a multisystem disease, which has been classified as an emerging epidemic not only confined to liver-related morbidity and mortality. It is also becoming apparent that NAFLD is associated with moderate cerebral dysfunction and cognitive decline. A possible link between NAFLD and Alzheimer's disease (AD) has only recently been proposed due to the multiple shared genes and pathological mechanisms contributing to the development of these conditions. Although AD is a progressive neurodegenerative disease, the exact pathophysiological mechanism remains ambiguous and similarly to NAFLD, currently available pharmacological therapies have mostly failed in clinical trials. In addition to the usual suspects (inflammation, oxidative stress, blood-brain barrier alterations and ageing) that could contribute to the NAFLD-induced development and progression of AD, changes in the vasculature, cerebral perfusion and waste clearance could be the missing link between these two diseases. Here, we review the most recent literature linking NAFLD and AD, focusing on cerebrovascular alterations and the brain's clearance system as risk factors involved in the development and progression of AD, with the aim of promoting further research using neuroimaging techniques and new mechanism-based therapeutic interventions.
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D’Andrea L, Stringhi R, Di Luca M, Marcello E. Looking at Alzheimer's Disease Pathogenesis from the Nuclear Side. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11091261. [PMID: 34572474 PMCID: PMC8467578 DOI: 10.3390/biom11091261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder representing the most common form of dementia. It is biologically characterized by the deposition of extracellular amyloid-β (Aβ) senile plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles, constituted by hyperphosphorylated tau protein. The key protein in AD pathogenesis is the amyloid precursor protein (APP), which is cleaved by secretases to produce several metabolites, including Aβ and APP intracellular domain (AICD). The greatest genetic risk factor associated with AD is represented by the Apolipoprotein E ε4 (APOE ε4) allele. Importantly, all of the above-mentioned molecules that are strictly related to AD pathogenesis have also been described as playing roles in the cell nucleus. Accordingly, evidence suggests that nuclear functions are compromised in AD. Furthermore, modulation of transcription maintains cellular homeostasis, and alterations in transcriptomic profiles have been found in neurodegenerative diseases. This report reviews recent advancements in the AD players-mediated gene expression. Aβ, tau, AICD, and APOE ε4 localize in the nucleus and regulate the transcription of several genes, part of which is involved in AD pathogenesis, thus suggesting that targeting nuclear functions might provide new therapeutic tools for the disease.
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Selkoe DJ. Editorial: A Is for Amyloid. JPAD-JOURNAL OF PREVENTION OF ALZHEIMERS DISEASE 2021; 7:140-141. [PMID: 32463063 PMCID: PMC7182734 DOI: 10.14283/jpad.2020.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- D J Selkoe
- D.J. Selkoe, Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA,
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50
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Lau HHC, Ingelsson M, Watts JC. The existence of Aβ strains and their potential for driving phenotypic heterogeneity in Alzheimer's disease. Acta Neuropathol 2021; 142:17-39. [PMID: 32743745 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-020-02201-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Reminiscent of the human prion diseases, there is considerable clinical and pathological variability in Alzheimer's disease, the most common human neurodegenerative condition. As in prion disorders, protein misfolding and aggregation is a hallmark feature of Alzheimer's disease, where the initiating event is thought to be the self-assembly of Aβ peptide into aggregates that deposit in the central nervous system. Emerging evidence suggests that Aβ, similar to the prion protein, can polymerize into a conformationally diverse spectrum of aggregate strains both in vitro and within the brain. Moreover, certain types of Aβ aggregates exhibit key hallmarks of prion strains including divergent biochemical attributes and the ability to induce distinct pathological phenotypes when intracerebrally injected into mouse models. In this review, we discuss the evidence demonstrating that Aβ can assemble into distinct strains of aggregates and how such strains may be primary drivers of the phenotypic heterogeneity in Alzheimer's disease.
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