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Ricobaraza A, Bunuales M, Gonzalez-Aparicio M, Fadila S, Rubinstein M, Vides-Urrestarazu I, Banderas J, Sola-Sevilla N, Sanchez-Carpintero R, Lanciego JL, Roda E, Honrubia A, Arnaiz P, Hernandez-Alcoceba R. Preferential expression of SCN1A in GABAergic neurons improves survival and epileptic phenotype in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome. J Mol Med (Berl) 2023; 101:1587-1601. [PMID: 37819378 PMCID: PMC10697872 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-023-02383-8] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
The SCN1A gene encodes the alpha subunit of a voltage-gated sodium channel (Nav1.1), which is essential for the function of inhibitory neurons in the brain. Mutations in this gene cause severe encephalopathies such as Dravet syndrome (DS). Upregulation of SCN1A expression by different approaches has demonstrated promising therapeutic effects in preclinical models of DS. Limiting the effect to inhibitory neurons may contribute to the restoration of brain homeostasis, increasing the safety and efficacy of the treatment. In this work, we have evaluated different approaches to obtain preferential expression of the full SCN1A cDNA (6 Kb) in GABAergic neurons, using high-capacity adenoviral vectors (HC-AdV). In order to favour infection of these cells, we considered ErbB4 as a surface target. Incorporation of the EGF-like domain from neuregulin 1 alpha (NRG1α) in the fiber of adenovirus capsid allowed preferential infection in cells lines expressing ErbB4. However, it had no impact on the infectivity of the vector in primary cultures or in vivo. For transcriptional control of transgene expression, we developed a regulatory sequence (DP3V) based on the Distal-less homolog enhancer (Dlx), the vesicular GABA transporter (VGAT) promoter, and a portion of the SCN1A gene. The hybrid DP3V promoter allowed preferential expression of transgenes in GABAergic neurons both in vitro and in vivo. A new HC-AdV expressing SCN1A under the control of this promoter showed improved survival and amelioration of the epileptic phenotype in a DS mouse model. These results increase the repertoire of gene therapy vectors for the treatment of DS and indicate a new avenue for the refinement of gene supplementation in this disease. KEY MESSAGES: Adenoviral vectors can deliver the SCN1A cDNA and are amenable for targeting. An adenoviral vector displaying an ErbB4 ligand in the capsid does not target GABAergic neurons. A hybrid promoter allows preferential expression of transgenes in GABAergic neurons. Preferential expression of SCN1A in GABAergic cells is therapeutic in a Dravet syndrome model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Ricobaraza
- Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, CIMA, University of Navarra, CIMA, Av. Pio XII 55, E-31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maria Bunuales
- Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, CIMA, University of Navarra, CIMA, Av. Pio XII 55, E-31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Manuela Gonzalez-Aparicio
- Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, CIMA, University of Navarra, CIMA, Av. Pio XII 55, E-31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Saja Fadila
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Goldschleger Eye Research Institute, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Moran Rubinstein
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Goldschleger Eye Research Institute, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Irene Vides-Urrestarazu
- Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, CIMA, University of Navarra, CIMA, Av. Pio XII 55, E-31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Julliana Banderas
- Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, CIMA, University of Navarra, CIMA, Av. Pio XII 55, E-31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Noemi Sola-Sevilla
- Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, CIMA, University of Navarra, CIMA, Av. Pio XII 55, E-31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Rocio Sanchez-Carpintero
- University Clinic of Navarra, Dravet Syndrome Unit, Pediatric Neurology Unit, IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Jose Luis Lanciego
- Department of Neuroscience, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CiberNed), Madrid, Spain
| | - Elvira Roda
- Department of Neuroscience, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Adriana Honrubia
- Department of Neuroscience, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Patricia Arnaiz
- Department of Neuroscience, CIMA, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ruben Hernandez-Alcoceba
- Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression Program, CIMA, University of Navarra, CIMA, Av. Pio XII 55, E-31008, Pamplona, Spain.
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2
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Pagni S, Custodio HM, Frankish A, Mudge JM, Mills JD, Sisodiya SM. SCN1A: bioinformatically informed revised boundaries for promoter and enhancer regions. Hum Mol Genet 2023; 32:1753-1763. [PMID: 36715146 PMCID: PMC10162429 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddad015] [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: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic variations in the sodium voltage-gated channel alpha subunit 1 (SCN1A) gene are responsible for multiple epilepsy phenotypes, including Dravet syndrome, febrile seizures (FS) and genetic epilepsy with FS plus. Phenotypic heterogeneity is a hallmark of SCN1A-related epilepsies, the causes of which are yet to be clarified. Genetic variation in the non-coding regulatory regions of SCN1A could be one potential causal factor. However, a comprehensive understanding of the SCN1A regulatory landscape is currently lacking. Here, we summarized the current state of knowledge of SCN1A regulation, providing details on its promoter and enhancer regions. We then integrated currently available data on SCN1A promoters by extracting information related to the SCN1A locus from genome-wide repositories and clearly defined the promoter and enhancer regions of SCN1A. Further, we explored the cellular specificity of differential SCN1A promoter usage. We also reviewed and integrated the available human brain-derived enhancer databases and mouse-derived data to provide a comprehensive computationally developed summary of SCN1A brain-active enhancers. By querying genome-wide data repositories, extracting SCN1A-specific data and integrating the different types of independent evidence, we created a comprehensive catalogue that better defines the regulatory landscape of SCN1A, which could be used to explore the role of SCN1A regulatory regions in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Pagni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
- Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Bucks SL9 0RJ, UK
| | - Helena Martins Custodio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
- Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Bucks SL9 0RJ, UK
| | - Adam Frankish
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jonathan M Mudge
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - James D Mills
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
- Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Bucks SL9 0RJ, UK
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ The Netherlands
| | - Sanjay M Sisodiya
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK
- Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Bucks SL9 0RJ, UK
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3
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Liu L, Feng X, Liu S, Zhou Y, Dong X, Yao H, Tan B. Whole-genome sequencing combined RNA-sequencing analysis of patients with mutations in SET binding protein 1. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:980000. [PMID: 36161179 PMCID: PMC9490002 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.980000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
SET binding protein 1 (SETBP1) is essential for human development, and pathogenic germline variants in SETBP1 lead to a recognizable developmental syndrome and variable clinical features. In this study, we assessed a patient with facial dysmorphism, intellectual disability and delayed motor development. Whole genome sequencing identified a novel de novo variation of the SETBP1 (c.2631C > A; p. S877R) gene, which is located in the SKI domain, as a likely pathogenic variant for the proband’s phenotype. RNA sequencing was performed to investigate the potential molecular mechanism of the novel variation in SETBP1. In total, 77 and 38 genes were identified with aberrant expression and splicing, respectively. Moreover, the biological functions of these genes were involved in DNA/protein binding, expression regulation, and the cell cycle, which may advance our understanding of the pathogenesis of SETBP1 in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoshu Feng
- Institute of Rare Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Sihan Liu
- Institute of Rare Diseases, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanqiu Zhou
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaojing Dong
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hong Yao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Hong Yao,
| | - Bo Tan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Bo Tan,
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4
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Weuring W, Geerligs J, Koeleman BPC. Gene Therapies for Monogenic Autism Spectrum Disorders. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12111667. [PMID: 34828273 PMCID: PMC8617899 DOI: 10.3390/genes12111667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Novel genome editing and transient gene therapies have been developed the past ten years, resulting in the first in-human clinical trials for monogenic disorders. Syndromic autism spectrum disorders can be caused by mutations in a single gene. Given the monogenic aspect and severity of syndromic ASD, it is an ideal candidate for gene therapies. Here, we selected 11 monogenic ASD syndromes, validated by animal models, and reviewed current gene therapies for each syndrome. Given the wide variety and novelty of some forms of gene therapy, the best possible option must be decided based on the gene and mutation.
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Chen W, Luo B, Gao N, Li H, Wang H, Li L, Cui W, Zhang L, Sun D, Liu F, Dong Z, Ren X, Zhang H, Su H, Xiong WC, Mei L. Neddylation stabilizes Nav1.1 to maintain interneuron excitability and prevent seizures in murine epilepsy models. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:136956. [PMID: 33651714 DOI: 10.1172/jci136956] [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: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The excitability of interneurons requires Nav1.1, the α subunit of the voltage-gated sodium channel. Nav1.1 deficiency and mutations reduce interneuron excitability, a major pathological mechanism for epilepsy syndromes. However, the regulatory mechanisms of Nav1.1 expression remain unclear. Here, we provide evidence that neddylation is critical to Nav1.1 stability. Mutant mice lacking Nae1, an obligatory component of the E1 ligase for neddylation, in parvalbumin-positive interneurons (PVINs) exhibited spontaneous epileptic seizures and premature death. Electrophysiological studies indicate that Nae1 deletion reduced PVIN excitability and GABA release and consequently increased the network excitability of pyramidal neurons (PyNs). Further analysis revealed a reduction in sodium-current density, not a change in channel property, in mutant PVINs and decreased Nav1.1 protein levels. These results suggest that insufficient neddylation in PVINs reduces Nav1.1 stability and thus the excitability of PVINs; the ensuing increased PyN activity causes seizures in mice. Consistently, Nav1.1 was found reduced by proteomic analysis that revealed abnormality in synapses and metabolic pathways. Our findings describe a role of neddylation in maintaining Nav1.1 stability for PVIN excitability and reveal what we believe is a new mechanism in the pathogenesis of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbing Chen
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Bin Luo
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Nannan Gao
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Haiwen Li
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Hongsheng Wang
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wanpeng Cui
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Dong Sun
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Fang Liu
- Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Zhaoqi Dong
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Xiao Ren
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Hongsheng Zhang
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Huabo Su
- Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Wen-Cheng Xiong
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.,Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Lin Mei
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.,Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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6
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Griffin M, Khan R, Basu S, Smith S. Ion Channels as Therapeutic Targets in High Grade Gliomas. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12103068. [PMID: 33096667 PMCID: PMC7589494 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12103068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Glioblastoma multiforme is an aggressive grade IV lethal brain tumour with a median survival of 14 months. Despite surgery to remove the tumour, and subsequent concurrent chemotherapy and radiotherapy, there is little in terms of effective treatment options. Because of this, exploring new treatment avenues is vital. Brain tumours are intrinsically electrically active; expressing unique patterns of ion channels, and this is a characteristic we can exploit. Ion channels are specialised proteins in the cell’s membrane that allow for the passage of positive and negatively charged ions in and out of the cell, controlling membrane potential. Membrane potential is a crucial biophysical signal in normal and cancerous cells. Research has identified that specific classes of ion channels not only move the cell through its cell cycle, thus encouraging growth and proliferation, but may also be essential in the development of brain tumours. Inhibition of sodium, potassium, calcium, and chloride channels has been shown to reduce the capacity of glioblastoma cells to grow and invade. Therefore, we propose that targeting ion channels and repurposing commercially available ion channel inhibitors may hold the key to new therapeutic avenues in high grade gliomas. Abstract Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a lethal brain cancer with an average survival of 14–15 months even with exhaustive treatment. High grade gliomas (HGG) represent the leading cause of CNS cancer-related death in children and adults due to the aggressive nature of the tumour and limited treatment options. The scarcity of treatment available for GBM has opened the field to new modalities such as electrotherapy. Previous studies have identified the clinical benefit of electrotherapy in combination with chemotherapeutics, however the mechanistic action is unclear. Increasing evidence indicates that not only are ion channels key in regulating electrical signaling and membrane potential of excitable cells, they perform a crucial role in the development and neoplastic progression of brain tumours. Unlike other tissue types, neural tissue is intrinsically electrically active and reliant on ion channels and their function. Ion channels are essential in cell cycle control, invasion and migration of cancer cells and therefore present as valuable therapeutic targets. This review aims to discuss the role that ion channels hold in gliomagenesis and whether we can target and exploit these channels to provide new therapeutic targets and whether ion channels hold the mechanistic key to the newfound success of electrotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Griffin
- Children’s Brain Tumour Research Centre, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
| | - Raheela Khan
- Division of Medical Sciences and Graduate Entry Medicine, Royal Derby Hospital, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
| | - Surajit Basu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
| | - Stuart Smith
- Children’s Brain Tumour Research Centre, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
- Correspondence:
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Liu SJ, Tang HL, He Q, Lu P, Fu T, Xu XL, Su T, Gao MM, Duan S, Luo Y, Long YS. FTO is a transcriptional repressor to auto-regulate its own gene and potentially associated with homeostasis of body weight. J Mol Cell Biol 2020; 11:118-132. [PMID: 29771336 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjy028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Revised: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) protein is a ferrous ion (Fe2+)/2-oxoglutarate (2-OG)-dependent demethylase preferentially catalyzing m6A sites in RNA. The FTO gene is highly expressed in the hypothalamus with fluctuation in response to various nutritional conditions, which is believed to be involved in the control of whole body metabolism. However, the underlying mechanism in response to different nutritional cues remains poorly understood. Here we show that ketogenic diet-derived ketone body β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) transiently increases FTO expression in both mouse hypothalamus and cultured cells. Interestingly, the FTO protein represses Fto promoter activity, which can be offset by BHB. We then demonstrate that FTO binds to its own gene promoter, and Fe2+, but not 2-OG, impedes this binding and increases FTO expression. The BHB-induced occupancy of the promoter by FTO influences the assembly of the basal transcriptional machinery. Importantly, a loss-of-function FTO mutant (I367F), which induces a lean phenotype in FTOI367F mice, exhibits augmented binding and elevated potency to repress the promoter. Furthermore, FTO fails to bind to its own promoter that promotes FTO expression in the hypothalamus of high-fat diet-induced obese and 48-h fasting mice, suggesting a disruption of the stable expression of this gene. Taken together, this study uncovers a new function of FTO as a Fe2+-sensitive transcriptional repressor dictating its own gene switch to form an auto-regulatory loop that may link with the hypothalamic control of body weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Jing Liu
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui-Ling Tang
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qian He
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ping Lu
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Fu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xu-Ling Xu
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Su
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mei-Mei Gao
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shumin Duan
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Neuroscience, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Luo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yue-Sheng Long
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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8
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Laser microdissection-based microproteomics of the hippocampus of a rat epilepsy model reveals regional differences in protein abundances. Sci Rep 2020; 10:4412. [PMID: 32157145 PMCID: PMC7064578 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-61401-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) is a chronic neurological disorder affecting almost 40% of adult patients with epilepsy. Hippocampal sclerosis (HS) is a common histopathological abnormality found in patients with MTLE. HS is characterised by extensive neuronal loss in different hippocampus sub-regions. In this study, we used laser microdissection-based microproteomics to determine the protein abundances in different regions and layers of the hippocampus dentate gyrus (DG) in an electric stimulation rodent model which displays classical HS damage similar to that found in patients with MTLE. Our results indicate that there are differences in the proteomic profiles of different layers (granule cell and molecular), as well as different regions, of the DG (ventral and dorsal). We have identified new signalling pathways and proteins present in specific layers and regions of the DG, such as PARK7, RACK1, and connexin 31/gap junction. We also found two major signalling pathways that are common to all layers and regions: inflammation and energy metabolism. Finally, our results highlight the utility of high-throughput microproteomics and spatial-limited isolation of tissues in the study of complex disorders to fully appreciate the large biological heterogeneity present in different cell populations within the central nervous system.
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9
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van Loo KMJ, Becker AJ. Transcriptional Regulation of Channelopathies in Genetic and Acquired Epilepsies. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 13:587. [PMID: 31992970 PMCID: PMC6971179 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder characterized by recurrent uncontrolled seizures and has an idiopathic “genetic” etiology or a symptomatic “acquired” component. Genetic studies have revealed that many epilepsy susceptibility genes encode ion channels, including voltage-gated sodium, potassium and calcium channels. The high prevalence of ion channels in epilepsy pathogenesis led to the causative concept of “ion channelopathies,” which can be elicited by specific mutations in the coding or promoter regions of genes in genetic epilepsies. Intriguingly, expression changes of the same ion channel genes by augmentation of specific transcription factors (TFs) early after an insult can underlie acquired epilepsies. In this study, we review how the transcriptional regulation of ion channels in both genetic and acquired epilepsies can be controlled, and compare these epilepsy “ion channelopathies” with other neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen M J van Loo
- Department of Neuropathology, Section for Translational Epilepsy Research, University of Bonn Medical Center, Bonn, Germany
| | - Albert J Becker
- Department of Neuropathology, Section for Translational Epilepsy Research, University of Bonn Medical Center, Bonn, Germany
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10
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de Lange IM, Weuring W, van 't Slot R, Gunning B, Sonsma ACM, McCormack M, de Kovel C, van Gemert LJJM, Mulder F, van Kempen MJA, Knoers NVAM, Brilstra EH, Koeleman BPC. Influence of common SCN1A promoter variants on the severity of SCN1A-related phenotypes. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2019; 7:e00727. [PMID: 31144463 PMCID: PMC6625088 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pathogenic variants in SCN1A cause variable epilepsy disorders with different disease severities. We here investigate whether common variation in the promoter region of the unaffected SCN1A allele could reduce normal expression, leading to a decreased residual function of Nav1.1, and therefore to more severe clinical outcomes in patients affected by pathogenic SCN1A variants. Methods Five different SCN1A promoter‐haplotypes were functionally assessed in SH‐SY5Y cells using Firefly and Renilla luciferase assays. The SCN1A promoter region was analyzed in a cohort of 143 participants with SCN1A pathogenic variants. Differences in clinical features and outcomes between participants with and without common variants in the SCN1A promoter‐region of their unaffected allele were investigated. Results All non‐wildtype haplotypes showed a significant reduction in luciferase expression, compared to the wildtype promoter‐region (65%–80%, p = 0.039–0.0023). No statistically significant differences in clinical outcomes were observed between patients with and without common promoter variants. However, patients with a wildtype promoter‐haplotype on their unaffected SCN1A allele showed a nonsignificant trend for milder phenotypes. Conclusion The nonsignificant observed trends in our study warrant replication studies in larger cohorts to explore the potential modifying role of these common SCN1A promoter‐haplotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris M de Lange
- Department of Genetics, Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wout Weuring
- Department of Genetics, Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ruben van 't Slot
- Department of Genetics, Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Anja C M Sonsma
- Department of Genetics, Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Mark McCormack
- Department of Genetics, Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Therapeutics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Carolien de Kovel
- Department of Genetics, Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Flip Mulder
- Department of Genetics, Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marjan J A van Kempen
- Department of Genetics, Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Nine V A M Knoers
- Department of Genetics, Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Eva H Brilstra
- Department of Genetics, Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bobby P C Koeleman
- Department of Genetics, Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Santillo S, Martini A, Polverino A, Mercuri NB, Guatteo E, Sorrentino G. Treating TB human neuroectodermal cell line with retinoic acid induces the appearance of neuron-like voltage-gated ionic currents. Brain Res 2019; 1711:97-105. [PMID: 30660613 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2019.01.019] [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: 06/21/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
TB is a cell line derived from the cerebrospinal fluid sample of a patient with primary leptomeningeal melanomatosis. Our previous immunological and ultrastructural analysis revealed that TB cells differentiate towards a neuronal phenotype when grown in vitro up to 7 days in presence of 10 µM all-trans retinoic acid (RA). Recently, we reported that TB cells are sensitive to the cytotoxic effects of β-amyloid peptides, activating the cytosolic phospholipase A2. To date, it is not known if RA, in addition to inducing morphological changes, also causes functional modification in TB cells, by regulating voltage-gated ionic currents. To this purpose, we performed electrophysiological characterization of undifferentiated (TB) and differentiated (RA-TB) cells by means of whole-cell patch clamp recordings. Upon depolarizing stimuli, both groups displayed voltage-gated K+ outward currents of similar amplitude. By contrast, the low amplitude voltage-gated Na+ currents recorded in undifferentiated TB cells were largely up-regulated by RA exposure. This current was strongly reduced by TTX and lidocaine and completely abolished by removal of extracellular sodium. Furthermore, treatment with RA caused the appearance of a late-onset inward current carried by Ca2+ ions in a subpopulation of TB cells. This current was not affected by removal of extracellular Na+ and was completely blocked by Cd2+, a broad-spectrum blocker of Ca2+ currents. Altogether, our results indicate that RA-differentiation of TB cells induces functional changes by augmenting the amplitude of voltage-gated sodium current and by inducing, in a subpopulation of treated cells, the appearance of a voltage-gated calcium current.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Santillo
- Istituto di Scienze Applicate e Sistemi Intelligenti, CNR, Naples, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Martini
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy; University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Department of Neurosciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Polverino
- University of Naples Parthenope, Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, Naples, Italy; Institute of Diagnosis and Treatment Hermitage, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola B Mercuri
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy; University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Department of Neurosciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Ezia Guatteo
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy; University of Naples Parthenope, Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Sorrentino
- Istituto di Scienze Applicate e Sistemi Intelligenti, CNR, Naples, Italy; University of Naples Parthenope, Department of Motor Sciences and Wellness, Naples, Italy; Institute of Diagnosis and Treatment Hermitage, Naples, Italy
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Neogenin in Amygdala for Neuronal Activity and Information Processing. J Neurosci 2018; 38:9600-9613. [PMID: 30228230 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0433-18.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Revised: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Fear learning and memory are vital for livings to survive, dysfunctions in which have been implicated in various neuropsychiatric disorders. Appropriate neuronal activation in amygdala is critical for fear memory. However, the underlying regulatory mechanisms are not well understood. Here we report that Neogenin, a DCC (deleted in colorectal cancer) family receptor, which plays important roles in axon navigation and adult neurogenesis, is enriched in excitatory neurons in BLA (Basolateral amygdala). Fear memory is impaired in male Neogenin mutant mice. The number of cFos+ neurons in response to tone-cued fear training was reduced in mutant mice, indicating aberrant neuronal activation in the absence of Neogenin. Electrophysiological studies show that Neogenin mutation reduced the cortical afferent input to BLA pyramidal neurons and compromised both induction and maintenance of Long-Term Potentiation evoked by stimulating cortical afferent, suggesting a role of Neogenin in synaptic plasticity. Concomitantly, there was a reduction in spine density and in frequency of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs), but not miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents, suggesting a role of Neogenin in forming excitatory synapses. Finally, ablating Neogenin in the BLA in adult male mice impaired fear memory likely by reducing mEPSC frequency in BLA excitatory neurons. These results reveal an unrecognized function of Neogenin in amygdala for information processing by promoting and maintaining neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity and provide insight into molecular mechanisms of neuronal activation in amygdala.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Appropriate neuronal activation in amygdala is critical for information processing. However, the underlying regulatory mechanisms are not well understood. Neogenin is known to regulate axon navigation and adult neurogenesis. Here we show that it is critical for neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity in the amygdala and thus fear memory by using a combination of genetic, electrophysiological, behavioral techniques. Our studies identify a novel function of Neogenin and provide insight into molecular mechanisms of neuronal activation in amygdala for fear processing.
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The genetic variants in 3' untranslated region of voltage-gated sodium channel alpha 1 subunit gene affect the mRNA-microRNA interactions and associate with epilepsy. BMC Genet 2016; 17:111. [PMID: 27473590 PMCID: PMC4966731 DOI: 10.1186/s12863-016-0417-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND mRNA expression in a cell or subcellular organelle is precisely regulated for the purpose of gene function regulation. The 3' untranslated region (3'UTR) of mRNA is the binding target of microRNA and RNA binding proteins. Their interactions regulate mRNA level in specific subcellular regions and determine the intensity of gene repression. The mutations in the coding region of voltage-gated sodium channel alpha 1 subunit gene, SCN1A, were identified in epileptic patients and confirmed as causative factors of epilepsy. We investigated if there were genetic variants in 3'UTR of SCN1A, affecting the microRNA-mRNA 3'UTR interaction and SCN1A gene repression, potentially associated with epilepsy. RESULTS In this case-control study, we identified twelve variants, NM_001202435.1:n.6277A > G, n.6568_6571del, n.6761C > T, n.6874A > T, n.6907 T > C, n.6978A > G, n.7065_7066insG, n.7282 T > C, n.7338_7344del, n.7385 T > A, n.7996C > T, and n.8212C > T in 3'UTR of SCN1A gene. We found that the variant of n.6978A > G in all our samples was completely mutated (G/G). In male group, T allele in n.7282 T > C was associated with epilepsy, while C allele was significantly less frequent in epileptic patients than in normal males (OR 0.424). Consequently, the haplotype "CTTACATGACGA" / "CTCTA" was significantly less frequent in male epileptic patients (0.173) than in normal males (0.305). The frequency of haplotype block found in females, "TTTAACA", "TTCAACA", and "CTTAACA" was 0.499, 0.254 and 0.234 respectively. Within STarMir model analysis, the "CTCTA" haplotype showed significantly higher site accessibility to microRNA targeting and higher downstream sequence accessibility for nonconserved binding than that of other haplotypes. Overall, the male genotypes have the higher accessibility of the downstream 30nt block of nonconserved site than the female genotypes. CONCLUSIONS NM_001202435.1:n.7282 T > C is the genetic variant associated with epilepsy in males, and the related haplotype "CTTACATGACGA" / "CTCTA" in the region of chr2: 165991297-165989081, which has high site accessibility for microRNA binding, is the genetic protective factor against epilepsy in males. In female subset, the frequencies of haplotype block "TTTAACA", "TTCAACA", and "CTTAACA" were 0.499,0.254 and 0.234 respectively. Alleles and haplotypes distribution did not differ in female cases in comparison to female controls.
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A Point Mutation in SCN1A 5' Genomic Region Decreases the Promoter Activity and Is Associated with Mild Epilepsy and Seizure Aggravation Induced by Antiepileptic Drug. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:2428-2434. [PMID: 26969601 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-9800-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The SCN1A gene with 1274 point mutations in the coding regions or genomic rearrangements is the most clinically relevant epilepsy gene. Recent studies have demonstrated that variations in the noncoding regions are potentially associated with epilepsies, but no distinct mutation has been reported. We sequenced the 5' upstream region of SCN1A in 166 patients with epilepsy and febrile seizures who were negative for point mutations in the coding regions or genomic rearrangements. A heterozygous mutation h1u-1962 T > G was identified in a patient with partial epilepsy and febrile seizures, which was aggravated by oxcarbazepine. This mutation was transmitted from the patient's asymptomatic mother and not found in the 110 normal controls. h1u-1962 T > G was located upstream the most frequently used noncoding exon and within the promoter sequences. Further experiments showed that this mutation decreased the promoter activity by 42.1 % compared with that of the paired haplotype (P < 0.001). In contrast to the null expression that results in haploinsufficiency and severe phenotype, this mutation caused relatively less impairment, explaining the mild epilepsy with incomplete penetrance. The antiepileptic drug-induced seizure aggravation in this patient suggests clinical attention for mutations or variations in noncoding regions that may affect SCN1A expression.
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Onwuli DO, Beltran-Alvarez P. An update on transcriptional and post-translational regulation of brain voltage-gated sodium channels. Amino Acids 2015; 48:641-651. [PMID: 26503606 PMCID: PMC4752963 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-015-2122-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium channels are essential proteins in brain physiology, as they generate the sodium currents that initiate neuronal action potentials. Voltage-gated sodium channels expression, localisation and function are regulated by a range of transcriptional and post-translational mechanisms. Here, we review our understanding of regulation of brain voltage-gated sodium channels, in particular SCN1A (NaV1.1), SCN2A (NaV1.2), SCN3A (NaV1.3) and SCN8A (NaV1.6), by transcription factors, by alternative splicing, and by post-translational modifications. Our focus is strongly centred on recent research lines, and newly generated knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatus O Onwuli
- School of Biological, Biomedical and Environmental Sciences, University of Hull, Hardy Building Cottingham Road, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Pedro Beltran-Alvarez
- School of Biological, Biomedical and Environmental Sciences, University of Hull, Hardy Building Cottingham Road, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK.
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Wu XL, Huang H, Huang YY, Yuan JX, Zhou X, Chen YM. Reduced Pumilio-2 expression in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy and in the lithium-pilocarpine induced epilepsy rat model. Epilepsy Behav 2015; 50:31-9. [PMID: 26101106 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2015.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2015] [Revised: 05/08/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Drosophila Pumilio (Pum), a homolog of mammalian Pum2, plays an important role in translational regulation in the central nervous system (CNS), particularly for dendrite outgrowth and neuronal excitability. We investigated the expression pattern and cellular distribution of Pum2 in patients with drug-refractory temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and rats with lithium chloride-pilocarpine-induced epilepsy. METHODS Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and double-labeled immunofluorescence were utilized to determine the expression level and distribution of Pum2 in temporal neocortex tissues from patients with intractable TLE (n=20) and patients with severe head trauma (n=20) in addition to the hippocampus and adjacent cortex of rats with lithium chloride-pilocarpine-induced TLE and controls. RESULTS Pum2 was expressed in the cell bodies and dendrites of neurons but did not colocalize with glial fibrillary acidic protein-positive astrocytes or propidium iodide (PI) in nuclei. The expression of Pum2 was significantly reduced in patients and rats with TLE in comparison to controls (P<0.05). CONCLUSION Pum2 expression was less in patients with TLE and a rodent model of epilepsy, suggesting that decreased expression of Pum2 may be involved in the pathogenesis of TLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu-Ling Wu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 74 Lin Jiang Road, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Hao Huang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 74 Lin Jiang Road, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Yun-Yi Huang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 74 Lin Jiang Road, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Jin-Xian Yuan
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 74 Lin Jiang Road, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 74 Lin Jiang Road, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Yang-Mei Chen
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 74 Lin Jiang Road, Chongqing 400010, China.
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