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Li CL, Zhou GF, Xie XY, Wang L, Chen X, Pan QL, Pu YL, Yang J, Song L, Chen GJ. STAU1 exhibits a dual function by promoting amyloidogenesis and tau phosphorylation in cultured cells. Exp Neurol 2024; 377:114805. [PMID: 38729552 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Staufen-1 (STAU1) is a double-stranded RNA-binding protein (RBP) involved in a variety of pathological conditions. In this study, we investigated the potential role of STAU1 in Alzheimer's disease (AD), in which two hallmarks are well-established as cerebral β-amyloid protein (Aβ) deposition and Tau-centered neurofibrillary tangles. We found that STAU1 protein level was significantly increased in cells that stably express full-length APP and the brain of APP/PS1 mice, an animal model of AD. STAU1 knockdown, as opposed to overexpression, significantly decreased the protein levels of β-amyloid converting enzyme 1 (BACE1) and Aβ. We further found that STAU1 extended the half-life of the BACE1 mRNA through binding to the 3' untranslated region (3'UTR). Transcriptome analysis revealed that STAU1 enhanced the expression of growth arrest and DNA damage 45 β (GADD45B) upstream of P38 MAPK signaling, which contributed to STAU1-induced regulation of Tau phosphorylation at Ser396 and Thr181. Together, STAU1 promoted amyloidogenesis by inhibiting BACE1 mRNA decay, and augmented Tau phosphorylation through activating GADD45B in relation to P38 MAPK. Targeting STAU1 that acts on both amyloidogenesis and tauopathy may serve as an optimistic approach for AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Lu Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Gui-Feng Zhou
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xiao-Yong Xie
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xue Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Qiu-Ling Pan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Ya-Lan Pu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Li Song
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Guo-Jun Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China.
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2
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Costa RG, Conceição A, Matos CA, Nóbrega C. The polyglutamine protein ATXN2: from its molecular functions to its involvement in disease. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:415. [PMID: 38877004 PMCID: PMC11178924 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06812-5] [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: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
A CAG repeat sequence in the ATXN2 gene encodes a polyglutamine (polyQ) tract within the ataxin-2 (ATXN2) protein, showcasing a complex landscape of functions that have been progressively unveiled over recent decades. Despite significant progresses in the field, a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms governed by ATXN2 remains elusive. This multifaceted protein emerges as a key player in RNA metabolism, stress granules dynamics, endocytosis, calcium signaling, and the regulation of the circadian rhythm. The CAG overexpansion within the ATXN2 gene produces a protein with an extended poly(Q) tract, inducing consequential alterations in conformational dynamics which confer a toxic gain and/or partial loss of function. Although overexpanded ATXN2 is predominantly linked to spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2), intermediate expansions are also implicated in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and parkinsonism. While the molecular intricacies await full elucidation, SCA2 presents ATXN2-associated pathological features, encompassing autophagy impairment, RNA-mediated toxicity, heightened oxidative stress, and disruption of calcium homeostasis. Presently, SCA2 remains incurable, with patients reliant on symptomatic and supportive treatments. In the pursuit of therapeutic solutions, various studies have explored avenues ranging from pharmacological drugs to advanced therapies, including cell or gene-based approaches. These endeavours aim to address the root causes or counteract distinct pathological features of SCA2. This review is intended to provide an updated compendium of ATXN2 functions, delineate the associated pathological mechanisms, and present current perspectives on the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael G Costa
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal.
- PhD program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal.
- Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal.
| | - André Conceição
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal
- PhD program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Coimbra, Portugal
- Champalimaud Research Program, Champalimaud Center for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carlos A Matos
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal
| | - Clévio Nóbrega
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI), Faro, Portugal.
- Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Algarve (UAlg), Faro, Portugal.
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3
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Figueroa KP, Gross C, Buena-Atienza E, Paul S, Gandelman M, Kakar N, Sturm M, Casadei N, Admard J, Park J, Zühlke C, Hellenbroich Y, Pozojevic J, Balachandran S, Händler K, Zittel S, Timmann D, Erdlenbruch F, Herrmann L, Feindt T, Zenker M, Klopstock T, Dufke C, Scoles DR, Koeppen A, Spielmann M, Riess O, Ossowski S, Haack TB, Pulst SM. A GGC-repeat expansion in ZFHX3 encoding polyglycine causes spinocerebellar ataxia type 4 and impairs autophagy. Nat Genet 2024; 56:1080-1089. [PMID: 38684900 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-024-01719-5] [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] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Despite linkage to chromosome 16q in 1996, the mutation causing spinocerebellar ataxia type 4 (SCA4), a late-onset sensory and cerebellar ataxia, remained unknown. Here, using long-read single-strand whole-genome sequencing (LR-GS), we identified a heterozygous GGC-repeat expansion in a large Utah pedigree encoding polyglycine (polyG) in zinc finger homeobox protein 3 (ZFHX3), also known as AT-binding transcription factor 1 (ATBF1). We queried 6,495 genome sequencing datasets and identified the repeat expansion in seven additional pedigrees. Ultrarare DNA variants near the repeat expansion indicate a common distant founder event in Sweden. Intranuclear ZFHX3-p62-ubiquitin aggregates were abundant in SCA4 basis pontis neurons. In fibroblasts and induced pluripotent stem cells, the GGC expansion led to increased ZFHX3 protein levels and abnormal autophagy, which were normalized with small interfering RNA-mediated ZFHX3 knockdown in both cell types. Improving autophagy points to a therapeutic avenue for this novel polyG disease. The coding GGC-repeat expansion in an extremely G+C-rich region was not detectable by short-read whole-exome sequencing, which demonstrates the power of LR-GS for variant discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla P Figueroa
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Caspar Gross
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- NGS Competence Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Elena Buena-Atienza
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- NGS Competence Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sharan Paul
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Mandi Gandelman
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Naseebullah Kakar
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, University of Lübeck and Kiel University, Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Biotechnology, FLS&I, BUITEMS, Quetta, Pakistan
| | - Marc Sturm
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nicolas Casadei
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- NGS Competence Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jakob Admard
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- NGS Competence Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Joohyun Park
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Christine Zühlke
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, University of Lübeck and Kiel University, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Yorck Hellenbroich
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, University of Lübeck and Kiel University, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jelena Pozojevic
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, University of Lübeck and Kiel University, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Saranya Balachandran
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, University of Lübeck and Kiel University, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Kristian Händler
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, University of Lübeck and Kiel University, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Simone Zittel
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dagmar Timmann
- Department of Neurology and Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (C-TNBS), Essen University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Friedrich Erdlenbruch
- Department of Neurology and Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (C-TNBS), Essen University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Laura Herrmann
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Martin Zenker
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Magdeburg and Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Klopstock
- Department of Neurology with Friedrich-Baur-Institute, University Hospital of Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Claudia Dufke
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Daniel R Scoles
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Malte Spielmann
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, University of Lübeck and Kiel University, Lübeck, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Hamburg, Lübeck, Kiel, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Olaf Riess
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
- NGS Competence Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Stephan Ossowski
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- NGS Competence Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Bioinformatics and Medical Informatics (IBMI), University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Tobias B Haack
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- NGS Competence Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stefan M Pulst
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
- Clinical Neurosciences Center, University of Utah Hospitals and Clinics, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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4
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Song N, Mei S, Wang X, Hu G, Lu M. Focusing on mitochondria in the brain: from biology to therapeutics. Transl Neurodegener 2024; 13:23. [PMID: 38632601 PMCID: PMC11022390 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-024-00409-w] [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: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria have multiple functions such as supplying energy, regulating the redox status, and producing proteins encoded by an independent genome. They are closely related to the physiology and pathology of many organs and tissues, among which the brain is particularly prominent. The brain demands 20% of the resting metabolic rate and holds highly active mitochondrial activities. Considerable research shows that mitochondria are closely related to brain function, while mitochondrial defects induce or exacerbate pathology in the brain. In this review, we provide comprehensive research advances of mitochondrial biology involved in brain functions, as well as the mitochondria-dependent cellular events in brain physiology and pathology. Furthermore, various perspectives are explored to better identify the mitochondrial roles in neurological diseases and the neurophenotypes of mitochondrial diseases. Finally, mitochondrial therapies are discussed. Mitochondrial-targeting therapeutics are showing great potentials in the treatment of brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanshan Song
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Shuyuan Mei
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Xiangxu Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, Department of Pharmacology, Neuroprotective Drug Discovery Key Laboratory, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Gang Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, Department of Pharmacology, Neuroprotective Drug Discovery Key Laboratory, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
| | - Ming Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, Department of Pharmacology, Neuroprotective Drug Discovery Key Laboratory, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
- Changzhou Second People's Hospital, Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, 213000, China.
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5
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Almasi S, SarmastiEmami S, Baird S, Ning Z, Figeys D, Côté J, Cowan KN, Jasmin BJ. Staufen1 controls mitochondrial metabolism via HIF2α in embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma and promotes tumorigenesis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:328. [PMID: 37847286 PMCID: PMC11071833 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04969-4] [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: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Elevated mitochondrial metabolism promotes tumorigenesis of Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcomas (ERMS). Accordingly, targeting oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) could represent a therapeutic strategy for ERMS. We previously demonstrated that genetic reduction of Staufen1 (STAU1) levels results in the inhibition of ERMS tumorigenicity. Here, we examined STAU1-mediated mechanisms in ERMS and focused on its potential involvement in regulating OXPHOS. We report the novel and differential role of STAU1 in mitochondrial metabolism in cancerous versus non-malignant skeletal muscle cells (NMSkMCs). Specifically, our data show that STAU1 depletion reduces OXPHOS and inhibits proliferation of ERMS cells. Our findings further reveal the binding of STAU1 to several OXPHOS mRNAs which affects their stability. Indeed, STAU1 depletion reduced the stability of OXPHOS mRNAs, causing inhibition of mitochondrial metabolism. In parallel, STAU1 depletion impacted negatively the HIF2α pathway which further modulates mitochondrial metabolism. Exogenous expression of HIF2α in STAU1-depleted cells reversed the mitochondrial inhibition and induced cell proliferation. However, opposite effects were observed in NMSkMCs. Altogether, these findings revealed the impact of STAU1 in the regulation of mitochondrial OXPHOS in cancer cells as well as its differential role in NMSkMCs. Overall, our results highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting STAU1 as a novel approach for inhibiting mitochondrial metabolism in ERMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shekoufeh Almasi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Sahar SarmastiEmami
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Stephen Baird
- High Throughput Lab, CHEO, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L1, Canada
| | - Zhibin Ning
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Daniel Figeys
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Jocelyn Côté
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
- The Eric J. Poulin Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Kyle N Cowan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
- Department of Surgery, Division of Paediatric Surgery, University of Ottawa, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, ON, K1Y 4E9, Canada
- Molecular Biomedicine Program, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L1, Canada
| | - Bernard J Jasmin
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada.
- The Eric J. Poulin Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada.
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6
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Niu F, Li Z, Ren Y, Li Z, Guan H, Li Y, Zhang Y, Li Y, Yang J, Qian L, Shi W, Fan X, Li J, Shi L, Yu Y, Xiong Y. Aberrant hyper-expression of the RNA binding protein GIGYF2 in endothelial cells modulates vascular aging and function. Redox Biol 2023; 65:102824. [PMID: 37517320 PMCID: PMC10400931 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102824] [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: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial cells (ECs) senescence plays a crucial role in vascular aging that promotes the initiation and progression of cardiovascular disease. The mutation of Grb10-interacting GYF protein 2 (GIGYF2) is strongly associated with the pathogenesis of aging-related diseases, whereas its role in regulating ECs senescence and dysfunction still remains elusive. In this study, we found aberrant hyperexpression of GIGYF2 in senescent human ECs and aortas of old mice. Silencing GIGYF2 in senescent ECs suppressed eNOS-uncoupling, senescence, and endothelial dysfunction. Conversely, in nonsenescent cells, overexpressing GIGYF2 promoted eNOS-uncoupling, cellular senescence, endothelial dysfunction, and activation of the mTORC1-SK61 pathway, which were ablated by rapamycin or antioxidant N-Acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC). Transcriptome analysis revealed that staufen double-stranded RNA binding protein 1 (STAU1) is remarkably downregulated in the GIGYF2-depleted ECs. STAU1 depletion significantly attenuated GIGYF2-induced cellular senescence, dysfunction, and inflammation in young ECs. Furthermore, we disclosed that GIGYF2 acting as an RNA binding protein (RBP) enhances STAU1 mRNA stability, and that the intron region of the late endosomal/lysosomal adaptor MAPK and mTOR activator 4 (LAMTOR4) could bind to STAU1 protein to upregulate LAMTOR4 expression. Immunofluorescence staining showed that GIGYF2 overexpression promoted the translocation of mTORC1 to lysosome. In the mice model, GIGYF2flox/flox Cdh-Cre+ mice protected aged mice from aging-associated vascular endothelium-dependent relaxation and arterial stiffness. Our work discloses that GIGYF2 serving as an RBP enhances the mRNA stability of STAU1 that upregulates LAMTOR4 expression through binding with its intron region, which activates the mTORC1-S6K1 signaling via recruitment of mTORC1 to the lysosomal membrane, ultimately leading to ECs senescence, dysfunction, and vascular aging. Disrupting the GIGYF2-STAU1-mTORC1 signaling cascade may represent a promising therapeutic approach against vascular aging and aging-related cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanglin Niu
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, PR China
| | - Zhuozhuo Li
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, PR China
| | - Yuanyuan Ren
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, PR China
| | - Zi Li
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, PR China
| | - Hua Guan
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ischemic Cardiovascular Diseases & Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710018, PR China
| | - Yang Li
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, PR China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, PR China
| | - Yirong Li
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, PR China
| | - Junle Yang
- Department of Radiology, Xi' an No.3 Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710018, PR China
| | - Lu Qian
- Department of Endocrinology, Xi' an No.3 Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710018, PR China; Xi'an Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710018, PR China
| | - Wenzhen Shi
- Medical Research Center, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710018, PR China; Xi'an Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710018, PR China
| | - Xiaobin Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710018, PR China
| | - Jinli Li
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, PR China
| | - Lele Shi
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, PR China
| | - Yi Yu
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, PR China.
| | - Yuyan Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, PR China; Xi'an Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710018, PR China.
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Acosta-Galeana I, Hernández-Martínez R, Reyes-Cruz T, Chiquete E, Aceves-Buendia JDJ. RNA-binding proteins as a common ground for neurodegeneration and inflammation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and multiple sclerosis. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1193636. [PMID: 37475885 PMCID: PMC10355071 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1193636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The neurodegenerative and inflammatory illnesses of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and multiple sclerosis were once thought to be completely distinct entities that did not share any remarkable features, but new research is beginning to reveal more information about their similarities and differences. Here, we review some of the pathophysiological features of both diseases and their experimental models: RNA-binding proteins, energy balance, protein transportation, and protein degradation at the molecular level. We make a thorough analysis on TDP-43 and hnRNP A1 dysfunction, as a possible common ground in both pathologies, establishing a potential link between neurodegeneration and pathological immunity. Furthermore, we highlight the putative variations that diverge from a common ground in an atemporal course that proposes three phases for all relevant molecular events.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tania Reyes-Cruz
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, División de Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Erwin Chiquete
- Departamento de Neurología y Psiquiatría, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jose de Jesus Aceves-Buendia
- Departamento de Neurología y Psiquiatría, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
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Jiang S, Meng X, Gu H, Sun J, Chen S, Chen Z, Liu D, Liang X. STAU1 promotes adipogenesis by regulating the alternative splicing of Pparγ2 mRNA. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2023; 1868:159293. [PMID: 36871938 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2023.159293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
During adipocyte differentiation, specific genes such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) are transcribed and post-transcriptional pre-mRNA is processed into mature mRNA. Since Pparγ2 pre-mRNAs contain putative binding sites for STAUFEN1 (STAU1), which can affect the alternative splicing of pre-mRNA, we hypothesized that STAU1 might regulate the alternative splicing of Pparγ2 pre-mRNA. In this study, we found that STAU1 affects the differentiation of 3 T3-L1 pre-adipocytes. Through RNA-seq analysis, we confirmed that STAU1 can regulate alternative splicing events during adipocyte differentiation, mainly through exon skipping, which suggests that STAU1 is mainly involved in exon splicing. In addition, gene annotation and cluster analysis revealed that the genes affected by alternative splicing were enriched in lipid metabolism pathways. We further demonstrated that STAU1 can regulate the alternative splicing of Pparγ2 pre-mRNA and affect the splicing of exon E1 through RNA immuno-precipitation, photoactivatable ribonucleotide enhanced crosslinking and immunoprecipitation, and sucrose density gradient centrifugation assays. Finally, we confirmed that STAU1 can regulate the alternative splicing of Pparγ2 pre-mRNA in stromal vascular fraction cells. In summary, this study improves our understanding of the function of STAU1 in adipocyte differentiation and the regulatory network of adipocyte differentiation-related gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Endemic Diseases, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830017, China
| | - Xuanyu Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Endemic Diseases, Functional Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830017, China
| | - Hao Gu
- Department of Laparoscopic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830002, China
| | - Jialei Sun
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430072, China
| | - Siyuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Endemic Diseases, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830017, China
| | - Zhe Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Endemic Diseases, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830017, China
| | - Dihui Liu
- Pathology Center, Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated Tumor Hospital, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830002, China
| | - Xiaodi Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention and Treatment of High Incidence Diseases in Central Asia, Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Endemic Diseases, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830017, China.
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9
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Paul S, Dansithong W, Gandelman M, Figueroa KP, Zu T, Ranum LPW, Scoles DR, Pulst SM. Staufen Impairs Autophagy in Neurodegeneration. Ann Neurol 2023; 93:398-416. [PMID: 36151701 PMCID: PMC9892312 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) kinase is one of the master coordinators of cellular stress responses, regulating metabolism, autophagy, and apoptosis. We recently reported that staufen1 (STAU1), a stress granule (SG) protein, was overabundant in fibroblast cell lines from patients with spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, frontotemporal degeneration, Huntington's, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's diseases as well as animal models, and patient tissues. STAU1 overabundance is associated with mTOR hyperactivation and links SG formation with autophagy. Our objective was to determine the mechanism of mTOR regulation by STAU1. METHODS We determined STAU1 abundance with disease- and chemical-induced cellular stressors in patient cells and animal models. We also used RNA-binding assays to contextualize STAU1 interaction with MTOR mRNA. RESULTS STAU1 and mTOR were overabundant in bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC)-C9ORF72, ATXN2Q127 , and Thy1-TDP-43 transgenic mouse models. Reducing STAU1 levels in these mice normalized mTOR levels and activity and autophagy-related marker proteins. We also saw increased STAU1 levels in HEK293 cells transfected to express C9ORF72-relevant dipeptide repeats (DPRs). Conversely, DPR accumulations were not observed in cells treated by STAU1 RNA interference (RNAi). Overexpression of STAU1 in HEK293 cells increased mTOR levels through direct MTOR mRNA interaction, activating downstream targets and impairing autophagic flux. Targeting mTOR by rapamycin or RNAi normalized STAU1 abundance in an SCA2 cellular model. INTERPRETATION STAU1 interaction with mTOR drives its hyperactivation and inhibits autophagic flux in multiple models of neurodegeneration. Staufen, therefore, constitutes a novel target to modulate mTOR activity and autophagy, and for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. ANN NEUROL 2023;93:398-416.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharan Paul
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | | | - Mandi Gandelman
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | | | - Tao Zu
- Center for NeuroGenetics and Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Laura P W Ranum
- Center for NeuroGenetics and Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Daniel R Scoles
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Stefan M Pulst
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
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10
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Clark LN, Gao Y, Wang GT, Hernandez N, Ashley-Koch A, Jankovic J, Ottman R, Leal SM, Rodriguez SMB, Louis ED. Whole genome sequencing identifies candidate genes for familial essential tremor and reveals biological pathways implicated in essential tremor aetiology. EBioMedicine 2022; 85:104290. [PMID: 36183486 PMCID: PMC9525816 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Essential tremor (ET), one of the most common neurological disorders, has a phenotypically heterogeneous presentation characterized by bilateral kinetic tremor of the arms and, in some patients, tremor involving other body regions (e.g., head, voice). Genetic studies suggest that ET is genetically heterogeneous. Methods We analyzed whole genome sequence data (WGS) generated on 104 multi-generational white families with European ancestry affected by ET. Genome-wide parametric linkage and association scans were analyzed using adjusted logistic regression models through the application of the Pseudomarker software. To investigate the additional contribution of rare variants in familial ET, we also performed an aggregate variant non-parametric linkage (NPL) analysis using the collapsed haplotype method implemented in CHP-NPL software. Findings Parametric linkage analysis of common variants identified several loci with significant evidence of linkage (HLOD ≥3.6). Among the gene regions within the strongest ET linkage peaks were BTC (4q13.3, HLOD=4.53), N6AMT1 (21q21.3, HLOD=4.31), PCDH9 (13q21.32, HLOD=4.21), EYA1 (8q13.3, HLOD=4.04), RBFOX1 (16p13.3, HLOD=4.02), MAPT (17q21.31, HLOD=3.99) and SCARB2 (4q21.1, HLOD=3.65). CHP-NPL analysis identified fifteen additional genes with evidence of significant linkage (LOD ≥3.8). These genes include TUBB2A, VPS33B, STEAP1B, SPINK5, ZRANB1, TBC1D3C, PDPR, NPY4R, ETS2, ZNF736, SPATA21, ARL17A, PZP, BLK and CCDC94. In one ET family contributing to the linkage peak on chromosome 16p13.3, we identified a likely pathogenic heterozygous canonical splice acceptor variant in exon 2 of RBFOX1 (ENST00000547372; c.4-2A>G), that co-segregated with the ET phenotype in the family. Interpretation Linkage and association analyses of WGS identified several novel ET candidate genes, which are implicated in four major pathways that include 1) the epidermal growth factor receptor-phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha-AKT serine/threonine kinase 1 (EGFR-PI3K-AKT) and Mitogen-activated protein Kinase 1 (ERK) pathways, 2) Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and DNA repair, 3) gamma-aminobutyric acid-ergic (GABAergic) system and 4) RNA binding and regulation of RNA processes. Our study provides evidence for a possible overlap in the genetic architecture of ET, neurological disease, cancer and aging. The genes and pathways identified can be prioritized in future genetic and functional studies. Funding National Institutes of Health, NINDS, NS073872 (USA) and NIA AG058131(USA).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine N Clark
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; The Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and The Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Yizhe Gao
- The G.H. Sergievsky Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; The Center for Statistical Genetics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gao T Wang
- The G.H. Sergievsky Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; The Center for Statistical Genetics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nora Hernandez
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX, USA
| | - Allison Ashley-Koch
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Joseph Jankovic
- Parkinson's Disease Center and Movement Disorders Clinic, Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX, USA
| | - Ruth Ottman
- The G.H. Sergievsky Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Division of Translational Epidemiology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Suzanne M Leal
- The Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and The Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; The G.H. Sergievsky Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; The Center for Statistical Genetics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sandra M Barral Rodriguez
- The Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and The Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; The G.H. Sergievsky Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Elan D Louis
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX, USA.
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11
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Chan JNM, Sánchez-Vidaña DI, Anoopkumar-Dukie S, Li Y, Benson Wui-Man L. RNA-binding protein signaling in adult neurogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:982549. [PMID: 36187492 PMCID: PMC9523427 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.982549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The process of neurogenesis in the brain, including cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, and maturation, results in the formation of new functional neurons. During embryonic development, neurogenesis is crucial to produce neurons to establish the nervous system, but the process persists in certain brain regions during adulthood. In adult neurogenesis, the production of new neurons in the hippocampus is accomplished via the division of neural stem cells. Neurogenesis is regulated by multiple factors, including gene expression at a temporal scale and post-transcriptional modifications. RNA-binding Proteins (RBPs) are known as proteins that bind to either double- or single-stranded RNA in cells and form ribonucleoprotein complexes. The involvement of RBPs in neurogenesis is crucial for modulating gene expression changes and posttranscriptional processes. Since neurogenesis affects learning and memory, RBPs are closely associated with cognitive functions and emotions. However, the pathways of each RBP in adult neurogenesis remain elusive and not clear. In this review, we specifically summarize the involvement of several RBPs in adult neurogenesis, including CPEB3, FXR2, FMRP, HuR, HuD, Lin28, Msi1, Sam68, Stau1, Smaug2, and SOX2. To understand the role of these RBPs in neurogenesis, including cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, and maturation as well as posttranscriptional gene expression, we discussed the protein family, structure, expression, functional domain, and region of action. Therefore, this narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the RBPs, their function, and their role in the process of adult neurogenesis as well as to identify possible research directions on RBPs and neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackie Ngai-Man Chan
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Dalinda Isabel Sánchez-Vidaña
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Mental Health Research Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | | | - Yue Li
- State Key Laboratory of Component-Based Chinese Medicine, Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Lau Benson Wui-Man
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Mental Health Research Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Lau Benson Wui-Man,
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12
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Scoles DR, Gandelman M, Paul S, Dexheimer T, Dansithong W, Figueroa KP, Pflieger LT, Redlin S, Kales SC, Sun H, Maloney D, Damoiseaux R, Henderson MJ, Simeonov A, Jadhav A, Pulst SM. A quantitative high-throughput screen identifies compounds that lower expression of the SCA2-and ALS-associated gene ATXN2. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102228. [PMID: 35787375 PMCID: PMC9356275 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
CAG repeat expansions in the ATXN2 (ataxin-2) gene can cause the autosomal dominant disorder spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) as well as increase the risk of ALS. Abnormal molecular, motor, and neurophysiological phenotypes in SCA2 mouse models are normalized by lowering ATXN2 transcription, and reduction of nonmutant Atxn2 expression has been shown to increase the life span of mice overexpressing the TDP-43 (transactive response DNA-binding protein 43 kDa) ALS protein, demonstrating the potential benefits of targeting ATXN2 transcription in humans. Here, we describe a quantitative high-throughput screen to identify compounds that lower ATXN2 transcription. We screened 428,759 compounds in a multiplexed assay using an ATXN2-luciferase reporter in human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK-293) cells and identified a diverse set of compounds capable of lowering ATXN2 transcription. We observed dose-dependent reductions of endogenous ATXN2 in HEK-293 cells treated with procillaridin A, 17-dimethylaminoethylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (17-DMAG), and heat shock protein 990 (HSP990), known inhibitors of HSP90 and Na+/K+-ATPases. Furthermore, HEK-293 cells expressing polyglutamine-expanded ATXN2-Q58 treated with 17-DMAG had minimally detectable ATXN2, as well as normalized markers of autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum stress, including STAU1 (Staufen 1), molecular target of rapamycin, p62, LC3-II (microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3II), CHOP (C/EBP homologous protein), and phospho-eIF2α (eukaryotic initiation factor 2α). Finally, bacterial artificial chromosome ATXN2-Q22 mice treated with 17-DMAG or HSP990 exhibited highly reduced ATXN2 protein abundance in the cerebellum. Taken together, our study demonstrates inhibition of HSP90 or Na+/K+-ATPases as potentially effective therapeutic strategies for treating SCA2 and ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Scoles
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
| | - Mandi Gandelman
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Sharan Paul
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Thomas Dexheimer
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Karla P Figueroa
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Lance T Pflieger
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Scott Redlin
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Stephen C Kales
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Hongmao Sun
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - David Maloney
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Robert Damoiseaux
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, California NanoSystems Institute, and Department of Bioengineering in the Samueli School of Engineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Mark J Henderson
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Anton Simeonov
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Ajit Jadhav
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Stefan M Pulst
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
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13
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Emerging Roles of RNA-Binding Proteins in Neurodevelopment. J Dev Biol 2022; 10:jdb10020023. [PMID: 35735914 PMCID: PMC9224834 DOI: 10.3390/jdb10020023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Diverse cell types in the central nervous system (CNS) are generated by a relatively small pool of neural stem cells during early development. Spatial and temporal regulation of stem cell behavior relies on precise coordination of gene expression. Well-studied mechanisms include hormone signaling, transcription factor activity, and chromatin remodeling processes. Much less is known about downstream RNA-dependent mechanisms including posttranscriptional regulation, nuclear export, alternative splicing, and transcript stability. These important functions are carried out by RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). Recent work has begun to explore how RBPs contribute to stem cell function and homeostasis, including their role in metabolism, transport, epigenetic regulation, and turnover of target transcripts. Additional layers of complexity are provided by the different target recognition mechanisms of each RBP as well as the posttranslational modifications of the RBPs themselves that alter function. Altogether, these functions allow RBPs to influence various aspects of RNA metabolism to regulate numerous cellular processes. Here we compile advances in RNA biology that have added to our still limited understanding of the role of RBPs in neurodevelopment.
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14
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Bunting EL, Hamilton J, Tabrizi SJ. Polyglutamine diseases. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2022; 72:39-47. [PMID: 34488036 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2021.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Polyglutamine diseases are a collection of nine CAG trinucleotide expansion disorders, presenting with a spectrum of neurological and clinical phenotypes. Recent human, mouse and cell studies of Huntington's disease have highlighted the role of DNA repair genes in somatic expansion of the CAG repeat region, modifying disease pathogenesis. Incomplete splicing of the HTT gene has also been shown to occur in humans, with the resulting exon 1 fragment most probably contributing to the Huntington's disease phenotype. In the spinocerebellar ataxias, studies have converged on transcriptional dysregulation of ion channels as a key disease modifier. In addition, advances have been made in understanding how increased levels of toxic, polyglutamine-expanded proteins can arise in the spinocerebellar ataxias through post-transcriptional and -translational modifications and autophagic mechanisms. Recent studies in spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy implicate similar pathogenic pathways to the more common polyglutamine diseases, highlighting autophagy stimulation as a potential therapeutic target. Finally, the therapeutic use of antisense oligonucleotides in several polyglutamine diseases has shown preclinical benefits and serves as potential future therapies in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L Bunting
- UCL Huntington's Disease Centre, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Joseph Hamilton
- UCL Huntington's Disease Centre, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Sarah J Tabrizi
- UCL Huntington's Disease Centre, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, UK; UK Dementia Research Institute, University College London, London, WC1N 3BG, UK.
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15
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Wozniak EAL, Chen Z, Paul S, Yang P, Figueroa KP, Friedrich J, Tschumperlin T, Berken M, Ingram M, Henzler C, Pulst SM, Orr HT. Cholecystokinin 1 receptor activation restores normal mTORC1 signaling and is protective to Purkinje cells of SCA mice. Cell Rep 2021; 37:109831. [PMID: 34644575 PMCID: PMC8916043 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) are a group of genetic diseases characterized by progressive ataxia and neurodegeneration, often in cerebellar Purkinje neurons. A SCA1 mouse model, Pcp2-ATXN1[30Q]D776, has severe ataxia in absence of progressive Purkinje neuron degeneration and death. Previous RNA-seq analyses identify cerebellar upregulation of the peptide hormone cholecystokinin (Cck) in Pcp2-ATXN1[30Q]D776 mice. Importantly, absence of Cck1 receptor (Cck1R) in Pcp2-ATXN1[30Q]D776 mice confers a progressive disease with Purkinje neuron death. Administration of a Cck1R agonist, A71623, to Pcp2-ATXN1[30Q]D776;Cck-/- and Pcp2-AXTN1[82Q] mice dampens Purkinje neuron pathology and associated deficits in motor performance. In addition, A71623 administration improves motor performance of Pcp2-ATXN2[127Q] SCA2 mice. Moreover, the Cck1R agonist A71623 corrects mTORC1 signaling and improves expression of calbindin in cerebella of AXTN1[82Q] and ATXN2[127Q] mice. These results indicate that manipulation of the Cck-Cck1R pathway is a potential therapeutic target for treatment of diseases involving Purkinje neuron degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A L Wozniak
- Institute of Translational Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Zhao Chen
- Institute of Translational Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Sharan Paul
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Praseuth Yang
- Institute of Translational Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Karla P Figueroa
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Jill Friedrich
- Institute of Translational Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Tyler Tschumperlin
- Institute of Translational Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Michael Berken
- Institute of Translational Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Melissa Ingram
- Institute of Translational Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Christine Henzler
- RISS Bioinformatics, Minnesota Supercomputing Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Stefan M Pulst
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA.
| | - Harry T Orr
- Institute of Translational Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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16
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Gandelman M, Dansithong W, Kales SC, Paul S, Maag G, Aoyama E, Zakharov A, Rai G, Dexheimer T, Whitehill BM, Sun H, Jadhav A, Simeonov A, Henderson MJ, Huynh DP, Pulst SM, Scoles DR. The AKT modulator A-443654 reduces α-synuclein expression and normalizes ER stress and autophagy. J Biol Chem 2021; 297:101191. [PMID: 34520759 PMCID: PMC8482485 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.101191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulation of α-synuclein is a main underlying pathological feature of Parkinson's disease and α-synucleinopathies, for which lowering expression of the α-synuclein gene (SNCA) is a potential therapeutic avenue. Using a cell-based luciferase reporter of SNCA expression we performed a quantitative high-throughput screen of 155,885 compounds and identified A-443654, an inhibitor of the multiple functional kinase AKT, as a potent inhibitor of SNCA. HEK-293 cells with CAG repeat expanded ATXN2 (ATXN2-Q58 cells) have increased levels of α-synuclein. We found that A-443654 normalized levels of both SNCA mRNA and α-synuclein monomers and oligomers in ATXN2-Q58 cells. A-443654 also normalized levels of α-synuclein in fibroblasts and iPSC-derived dopaminergic neurons from a patient carrying a triplication of the SNCA gene. Analysis of autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum stress markers showed that A-443654 successfully prevented α-synuclein toxicity and restored cell function in ATXN2-Q58 cells, normalizing the levels of mTOR, LC3-II, p62, STAU1, BiP, and CHOP. A-443654 also decreased the expression of DCLK1, an inhibitor of α-synuclein lysosomal degradation. Our study identifies A-443654 and AKT inhibition as a potential strategy for reducing SNCA expression and treating Parkinson's disease pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandi Gandelman
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | | | - Stephen C Kales
- Department of Neurology, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Sharan Paul
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Gentrie Maag
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Erika Aoyama
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Alexey Zakharov
- Department of Neurology, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Ganesha Rai
- Department of Neurology, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Thomas Dexheimer
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Brooke M Whitehill
- Department of Neurology, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Hongmao Sun
- Department of Neurology, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Ajit Jadhav
- Department of Neurology, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Anton Simeonov
- Department of Neurology, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Mark J Henderson
- Department of Neurology, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Duong P Huynh
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Stefan M Pulst
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Daniel R Scoles
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
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17
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Bonnet-Magnaval F, DesGroseillers L. The Staufen1-dependent cell cycle regulon or how a misregulated RNA-binding protein leads to cancer. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2021; 96:2192-2208. [PMID: 34018319 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, an increasing number of reports have linked the RNA-binding protein Staufen1 (STAU1) to the control of cell decision making. In non-transformed cells, STAU1 balances the expression of messenger RNA (mRNA) regulons that regulate differentiation and well-ordered cell division. Misregulation of STAU1 expression and/or functions changes the fragile balance in the expression of pro- and anti-proliferative and apoptotic genes and favours a novel equilibrium that supports cell proliferation and cancer development. The misregulation of STAU1 functions causes multiple coordinated modest effects in the post-transcriptional regulation of many RNA targets that code for cell cycle regulators, leading to dramatic consequences at the cellular level. The new tumorigenic equilibrium in STAU1-mediated gene regulation observed in cancer cells can be further altered by a slight increase in STAU1 expression that favours expression of pro-apoptotic genes and cell death. The STAU1-dependent cell cycle regulon is a good model to study how abnormal expression of an RNA-binding protein promotes cell growth and provides an advantageous selection of malignant cells in the first step of cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Bonnet-Magnaval
- Département de biochimie et médecine moléculaire, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, 2900 Édouard Montpetit, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Luc DesGroseillers
- Département de biochimie et médecine moléculaire, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, 2900 Édouard Montpetit, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
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18
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Almasi S, Jasmin BJ. The multifunctional RNA-binding protein Staufen1: an emerging regulator of oncogenesis through its various roles in key cellular events. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:7145-7160. [PMID: 34633481 PMCID: PMC8629789 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03965-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The double-stranded multifunctional RNA-binding protein (dsRBP) Staufen was initially discovered in insects as a regulator of mRNA localization. Later, its mammalian orthologs have been described in different organisms, including humans. Two human orthologues of Staufen, named Staufen1 (STAU1) and Staufen2 (STAU2), share some structural and functional similarities. However, given their different spatio-temporal expression patterns, each of these orthologues plays distinct roles in cells. In the current review, we focus on the role of STAU1 in cell functions and cancer development. Since its discovery, STAU1 has mostly been studied for its involvement in various aspects of RNA metabolism. Given the pivotal role of RNA metabolism within cells, recent studies have explored the mechanistic impact of STAU1 in a wide variety of cell functions ranging from cell growth to cell death, as well as in various disease states. In particular, there has been increasing attention on the role of STAU1 in neuromuscular disorders, neurodegeneration, and cancer. Here, we provide an overview of the current knowledge on the role of STAU1 in RNA metabolism and cell functions. We also highlight the link between STAU1-mediated control of cellular functions and cancer development, progression, and treatment. Hence, our review emphasizes the potential of STAU1 as a novel biomarker and therapeutic target for cancer diagnosis and treatment, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shekoufeh Almasi
- grid.28046.380000 0001 2182 2255Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5 Canada
| | - Bernard J. Jasmin
- grid.28046.380000 0001 2182 2255Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5 Canada ,grid.28046.380000 0001 2182 2255The Eric J. Poulin Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, K1H 8M5 Canada
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