Mutant LRRK2 elicits calcium imbalance and depletion of dendritic mitochondria in neurons

The Multifaceted Role of LRRK2 in Parkinson's Disease

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) is a multifunctional protein kinase intricately involved in the pathogeneses of various neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson's disease (PD). LRRK2 plays a pivotal role in mitochondrial function and cellular senescence by regulating key processes such as autophagy, oxidative stress, and protein aggregation. LRRK2 is also associated with ciliogenesis in regulating neuronal development. In addition, LRRK2 has been implicated as a putative mediator in neuroinflammation via promoting the reactivation of microglia and influencing cytokine production, a factor that may have therapeutic implications. Furthermore, mutations in LRRK2 have been found to impact the production of neurotrophic factors in astrocytes, the star-shaped glial cells of the central nervous system, thereby affecting neuronal health and contributing to the pathology of neurodegenerative diseases like PD. The multifaceted roles of LRRK2 in cellular senescence, interaction with LRS, neuroinflammation, the maintenance of mitochondria, and astrocyte function highlight its significance as a therapeutic target for neurodegenerative disorders.

The Role of Autophagy in Excitotoxicity, Synaptic Mitochondrial Stress and Neurodegeneration

Brain and nervous system functions depend upon maintaining the integrity of synaptic structures over the lifetime. Autophagy, a key homeostatic quality control system, plays a central role not only in neuronal development and survival/cell death, but also in regulating synaptic activity and plasticity. Glutamate is the major excitatory neurotransmitter that activates downstream targets, with a key role in learning and memory. However, an excess of glutamatergic stimulation is pathological in stroke, epilepsy and neurodegeneration, triggering excitotoxic cell death or a sublethal process of excitatory mitochondrial calcium toxicity (EMT) that triggers dendritic retraction. Markers of autophagy and mitophagy are often elevated following excitatory neuronal injuries, with the potential to influence cell death or neurodegenerative outcomes of these injuries. Interestingly, leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) and PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1), two kinases linked to autophagy, mitophagy and Parkinson disease, play important roles in regulating mitochondrial calcium handling, synaptic density and function, and maturation of dendritic spines. Mutations in LRRK2, PINK1, or proteins linked to Alzheimer's disease perturb mitochondrial calcium handling to sensitize neurons to excitatory injury. While autophagy and mitophagy can play both protective and harmful roles, studies in various excitotoxicity and stroke models often implicate autophagy in a pathogenic role. Understanding the role of autophagic degradation in regulating synaptic loss and cell death following excitatory neuronal injuries has important therapeutic implications for both acute and chronic neurological disorders.

Mitochondria are positioned at dendritic branch induction sites, a process requiring rhotekin2 and syndapin I

Proper neuronal development, function and survival critically rely on mitochondrial functions. Yet, how developing neurons ensure spatiotemporal distribution of mitochondria during expansion of their dendritic arbor remained unclear. We demonstrate the existence of effective mitochondrial positioning and tethering mechanisms during dendritic arborization. We identify rhotekin2 as outer mitochondrial membrane-associated protein that tethers mitochondria to dendritic branch induction sites. Rhotekin2-deficient neurons failed to correctly position mitochondria at these sites and also lacked the reduction in mitochondrial dynamics observed at wild-type nascent dendritic branch sites. Rhotekin2 hereby serves as important anchor for the plasma membrane-binding and membrane curvature-inducing F-BAR protein syndapin I (PACSIN1). Consistently, syndapin I loss-of-function phenocopied the rhotekin2 loss-of-function phenotype in mitochondrial positioning at dendritic branch induction sites. The finding that rhotekin2 deficiency impaired dendritic branch induction and that a syndapin binding-deficient rhotekin2 mutant failed to rescue this phenotype highlighted the physiological importance of rhotekin2 functions for neuronal network formation.

Oxidative stress and mitochondrial impairment: Key drivers in neurodegenerative disorders

Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress are critical factors in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. The complex interplay between these factors exacerbates neuronal damage and accelerates disease progression. In neurodegenerative diseases, mitochondrial dysfunction impairs ATP production and promotes the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The accumulation of ROS further damages mitochondrial DNA, proteins, and lipids, creating a vicious cycle of oxidative stress and mitochondrial impairment. This review aims to elucidate the mechanisms by which mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress lead to neurodegeneration, and to highlight potential therapeutic targets to mitigate their harmful effects.

The autophagy-lysosome pathway: a potential target in the chemical and gene therapeutic strategies for Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease is a common neurodegenerative disease with movement disorders associated with the intracytoplasmic deposition of aggregate proteins such as α-synuclein in neurons. As one of the major intracellular degradation pathways, the autophagy-lysosome pathway plays an important role in eliminating these proteins. Accumulating evidence has shown that upregulation of the autophagy-lysosome pathway may contribute to the clearance of α-synuclein aggregates and protect against degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson's disease. Moreover, multiple genes associated with the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease are intimately linked to alterations in the autophagy-lysosome pathway. Thus, this pathway appears to be a promising therapeutic target for treatment of Parkinson's disease. In this review, we briefly introduce the machinery of autophagy. Then, we provide a description of the effects of Parkinson's disease-related genes on the autophagy-lysosome pathway. Finally, we highlight the potential chemical and genetic therapeutic strategies targeting the autophagy-lysosome pathway and their applications in Parkinson's disease.

CalDAG-GEFI acts as a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for LRRK2 to regulate LRRK2 function and neurodegeneration

Mutations in LRRK2 are the most common genetic cause of Parkinson's disease (PD). LRRK2 protein contains two enzymatic domains: a GTPase (Roc-COR) and a kinase domain. Disease-causing mutations are found in both domains. Now, studies have focused largely on LRRK2 kinase activity, while attention to its GTPase function is limited. LRRK2 is a guanine nucleotide-binding protein, but the mechanism of direct regulation of its GTPase activity remains unclear and its physiological GEF is not known. Here, we identified CalDAG-GEFI (CDGI) as a physiological GEF for LRRK2. CDGI interacts with LRRK2 and increases its GDP to GTP exchange activity. CDGI modulates LRRK2 cellular functions and LRRK2-induced neurodegeneration in both LRRK2 Drosophila and mouse models. Together, this study identified the physiological GEF for LRRK2 and provides strong evidence that LRRK2 GTPase is regulated by GAPs and GEFs. The LRRK2 GTPase, GAP, or GEF activities have the potential to serve as therapeutic targets, which is distinct from the direct LRRK2 kinase inhibition.

Loss of mitochondrial Ca2+ response and CaMKII/ERK activation by LRRK2R1441G mutation correlate with impaired depolarization-induced mitophagy

BACKGROUND

Stress-induced activation of ERK/Drp1 serves as a checkpoint in the segregation of damaged mitochondria for autophagic clearance (mitophagy). Elevated cytosolic calcium (Ca2+) activates ERK, which is pivotal to mitophagy initiation. This process is altered in Parkinson's disease (PD) with mutations in leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2), potentially contributing to mitochondrial dysfunction. Pathogenic LRRK2 mutation is linked to dysregulated cellular Ca2+ signaling but the mechanism involved remains unclear.

METHODS

Mitochondrial damages lead to membrane depolarization. To investigate how LRRK2 mutation impairs cellular response to mitochondrial damages, mitochondrial depolarization was induced by artificial uncoupler (FCCP) in wild-type (WT) and LRRK2R1441G mutant knockin (KI) mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). The resultant cytosolic Ca2+ flux was assessed using live-cell Ca2+ imaging. The role of mitochondria in FCCP-induced cytosolic Ca2+ surge was confirmed by co-treatment with the mitochondrial sodium-calcium exchanger (NCLX) inhibitor. Cellular mitochondrial quality and function were evaluated by Seahorse™ real-time cell metabolic analysis, flow cytometry, and confocal imaging. Mitochondrial morphology was visualized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Activation (phosphorylation) of stress response pathways were assessed by immunoblotting.

RESULTS

Acute mitochondrial depolarization induced by FCCP resulted in an immediate cytosolic Ca2+ surge in WT MEFs, mediated predominantly via mitochondrial NCLX. However, such cytosolic Ca2+ response was abolished in LRRK2 KI MEFs. This loss of response in KI was associated with impaired activation of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII) and MEK, the two upstream kinases of ERK. Treatment of LRRK2 inhibitor did not rescue this phenotype indicating that it was not caused by mutant LRRK2 kinase hyperactivity. KI MEFs exhibited swollen mitochondria with distorted cristae, depolarized mitochondrial membrane potential, and reduced mitochondrial Ca2+ store and mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) expression. These mutant cells also exhibited lower cellular ATP: ADP ratio albeit higher basal respiration than WT, indicating compensation for mitochondrial dysfunction. These defects may hinder cellular stress response and signals to Drp1-mediated mitophagy, as evident by impaired mitochondrial clearance in the mutant.

CONCLUSIONS

Pathogenic LRRK2R1441G mutation abolished mitochondrial depolarization-induced Ca2+ response and impaired the basal mitochondrial clearance. Inherent defects from LRRK2 mutation have weakened the cellular ability to scavenge damaged mitochondria, which may further aggravate mitochondrial dysfunction and neurodegeneration in PD.

Excitotoxicity, Oxytosis/Ferroptosis, and Neurodegeneration: Emerging Insights into Mitochondrial Mechanisms

Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a pivotal role in the development of age-related diseases, particularly neurodegenerative disorders. The etiology of mitochondrial dysfunction involves a multitude of factors that remain elusive. This review centers on elucidating the role(s) of excitotoxicity, oxytosis/ferroptosis and neurodegeneration within the context of mitochondrial bioenergetics, biogenesis, mitophagy and oxidative stress and explores their intricate interplay in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. The effective coordination of mitochondrial turnover processes, notably mitophagy and biogenesis, is assumed to be critically important for cellular resilience and longevity. However, the age-associated decrease in mitophagy impedes the elimination of dysfunctional mitochondria, consequently impairing mitochondrial biogenesis. This deleterious cascade results in the accumulation of damaged mitochondria and deterioration of cellular functions. Both excitotoxicity and oxytosis/ferroptosis have been demonstrated to contribute significantly to the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's Disease (HD), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Excitotoxicity, characterized by excessive glutamate signaling, initiates a cascade of events involving calcium dysregulation, energy depletion, and oxidative stress and is intricately linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. Furthermore, emerging concepts surrounding oxytosis/ferroptosis underscore the importance of iron-dependent lipid peroxidation and mitochondrial engagement in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration. This review not only discusses the individual contributions of excitotoxicity and ferroptosis but also emphasizes their convergence with mitochondrial dysfunction, a key driver of neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding the intricate crosstalk between excitotoxicity, oxytosis/ferroptosis, and mitochondrial dysfunction holds potential to pave the way for mitochondrion-targeted therapeutic strategies. Such strategies, with a focus on bioenergetics, biogenesis, mitophagy, and oxidative stress, emerge as promising avenues for therapeutic intervention.

Mitochondrial plasticity and synaptic plasticity crosstalk; in health and Alzheimer's disease

Synaptic plasticity is believed to underlie the cellular and molecular basis of memory formation. Mitochondria are one of the main organelles involved in metabolism and energy maintenance as plastic organelles that change morphologically and functionally in response to cellular needs and regulate synaptic function and plasticity through multiple mechanisms, including ATP generation, calcium homeostasis, and biogenesis. An increased neuronal activity enhances synaptic efficiency, during which mitochondria's spatial distribution and morphology change significantly. These organelles build up in the pre-and postsynaptic zones to produce ATP, which is necessary for several synaptic processes like neurotransmitter release and recycling. Mitochondria also regulate calcium homeostasis by buffering intracellular calcium, which ensures proper synaptic activity. Furthermore, mitochondria in the presynaptic terminal have distinct morphological properties compared to dendritic or postsynaptic mitochondria. This specialization enables precise control of synaptic activity and plasticity. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been linked to synaptic failure in many neurodegenerative disorders, like Alzheimer's disease (AD). In AD, malfunctioning mitochondria cause delays in synaptic vesicle release and recycling, ionic gradient imbalances, and mostly synaptic failure. This review emphasizes mitochondrial plasticity's contribution to synaptic function. It also explores the profound effect of mitochondrial malfunction on neurodegenerative disorders, focusing on AD, and provides an overview of how they sustain cellular health under normal conditions and how their malfunction contributes to neurodegenerative diseases, highlighting their potential as a therapeutic target for such conditions.

Micro-and mesoscale aspects of neurodegeneration in engineered human neural networks carrying the LRRK2 G2019S mutation

Mutations in the leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene have been widely linked to Parkinson's disease, where the G2019S variant has been shown to contribute uniquely to both familial and sporadic forms of the disease. LRRK2-related mutations have been extensively studied, yet the wide variety of cellular and network events related to these mutations remain poorly understood. The advancement and availability of tools for neural engineering now enable modeling of selected pathological aspects of neurodegenerative disease in human neural networks in vitro. Our study revealed distinct pathology associated dynamics in engineered human cortical neural networks carrying the LRRK2 G2019S mutation compared to healthy isogenic control neural networks. The neurons carrying the LRRK2 G2019S mutation self-organized into networks with aberrant morphology and mitochondrial dynamics, affecting emerging structure-function relationships both at the micro-and mesoscale. Taken together, the findings of our study points toward an overall heightened metabolic demand in networks carrying the LRRK2 G2019S mutation, as well as a resilience to change in response to perturbation, compared to healthy isogenic controls.

Activation of Ca2+ phosphatase Calcineurin regulates Parkin translocation to mitochondria and mitophagy in flies

Selective removal of dysfunctional mitochondria via autophagy is crucial for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis. This event is initiated by the translocation of the E3 ubiquitin ligase Parkin to damaged mitochondria, and it requires the Serine/Threonine-protein kinase PINK1. In a coordinated set of events, PINK1 operates upstream of Parkin in a linear pathway that leads to the phosphorylation of Parkin, Ubiquitin, and Parkin mitochondrial substrates, to promote ubiquitination of outer mitochondrial membrane proteins. Ubiquitin-decorated mitochondria are selectively recruiting autophagy receptors, which are required to terminate the organelle via autophagy. In this work, we show a previously uncharacterized molecular pathway that correlates the activation of the Ca2+-dependent phosphatase Calcineurin to Parkin translocation and Parkin-dependent mitophagy. Calcineurin downregulation or genetic inhibition prevents Parkin translocation to CCCP-treated mitochondria and impairs stress-induced mitophagy, whereas Calcineurin activation promotes Parkin mitochondrial recruitment and basal mitophagy. Calcineurin interacts with Parkin, and promotes Parkin translocation in the absence of PINK1, but requires PINK1 expression to execute mitophagy in MEF cells. Genetic activation of Calcineurin in vivo boosts basal mitophagy in neurons and corrects locomotor dysfunction and mitochondrial respiratory defects of a Drosophila model of impaired mitochondrial functions. Our study identifies Calcineurin as a novel key player in the regulation of Parkin translocation and mitophagy.

Targeted protein degradation for the treatment of Parkinson's disease: Advances and future perspective

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive disorder that belongs to a class of neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) called Synucleinopathies. It has characterized by the misfolding and aggregation of a-synuclein. Our understanding of PD continues to evolve, and so does our approach to treatment. including therapies aimed at delaying pathology, quitting neuronal loss, and shortening the course of the disease by selectively targeting essential proteins suspected to play a role in PD pathogenesis. One emerging approach that is generating significant interest is Targeted Protein Degradation (TPD). TPD is an innovative method that allows us to specifically break down certain proteins using specially designed molecules or peptides, like PROteolysis-TArgeting-Chimera (PROTACs). This approach holds great promise, particularly in the context of NDs. In this review, we will briefly explain PD and its pathogenesis, followed by discussing protein degradation systems and TPD strategy in PD by reviewing synthesized small molecules and peptides. Finally, future perspectives and challenges in the field are discussed.

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 at a glance

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) is a multidomain scaffolding protein with dual guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase) and kinase enzymatic activities, providing this protein with the capacity to regulate a multitude of signalling pathways and act as a key mediator of diverse cellular processes. Much of the interest in LRRK2 derives from mutations in the LRRK2 gene being the most common genetic cause of Parkinson's disease, and from the association of the LRRK2 locus with a number of other human diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease. Therefore, the LRRK2 research field has focused on the link between LRRK2 and pathology, with the aim of uncovering the underlying mechanisms and, ultimately, finding novel therapies and treatments to combat them. From the biochemical and cellular functions of LRRK2, to its relevance to distinct disease mechanisms, this Cell Science at a Glance article and the accompanying poster deliver a snapshot of our current understanding of LRRK2 function, dysfunction and links to disease.

PINK1 and Parkin regulate IP3R-mediated ER calcium release

Although defects in intracellular calcium homeostasis are known to play a role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD), the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we show that loss of PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) and Parkin leads to dysregulation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) activity, robustly increasing ER calcium release. In addition, we identify that CDGSH iron sulfur domain 1 (CISD1, also known as mitoNEET) functions downstream of Parkin to directly control IP3R. Both genetic and pharmacologic suppression of CISD1 and its Drosophila homolog CISD (also known as Dosmit) restore the increased ER calcium release in PINK1 and Parkin null mammalian cells and flies, respectively, demonstrating the evolutionarily conserved regulatory mechanism of intracellular calcium homeostasis by the PINK1-Parkin pathway. More importantly, suppression of CISD in PINK1 and Parkin null flies rescues PD-related phenotypes including defective locomotor activity and dopaminergic neuronal degeneration. Based on these data, we propose that the regulation of ER calcium release by PINK1 and Parkin through CISD1 and IP3R is a feasible target for treating PD pathogenesis.

A Glance at Biogenesis and Functionality of MicroRNAs and Their Role in the Neuropathogenesis of Parkinson's Disease

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, noncoding RNA transcripts. Mammalian miRNA coding sequences are located in introns and exons of genes encoding various proteins. As the central nervous system is the largest source of miRNA transcripts in living organisms, miRNA molecules are an integral part of the regulation of epigenetic activity in physiological and pathological processes. Their activity depends on many proteins that act as processors, transporters, and chaperones. Many variants of Parkinson's disease have been directly linked to specific gene mutations which in pathological conditions are cumulated resulting in the progression of neurogenerative changes. These mutations can often coexist with specific miRNA dysregulation. Dysregulation of different extracellular miRNAs has been confirmed in many studies on the PD patients. It seems reasonable to conduct further research on the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease and their potential use in future therapies and diagnosis of the disease. This review presents the current state of knowledge about the biogenesis and functionality of miRNAs in the human genome and their role in the neuropathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD)-one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders. The article also describes the process of miRNA formation which can occur in two ways-the canonical and noncanonical one. However, the main focus was on miRNA's use in in vitro and in vivo studies in the context of pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of PD. Some issues, especially those regarding the usefulness of miRNAs in PD's diagnostics and especially its treatment, require further research. More standardization efforts and clinical trials on miRNAs are needed.

The Impact of microRNAs on Mitochondrial Function and Immunity: Relevance to Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's Disease (PD), the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, is characterised by the severe loss of dopaminergic neurons in the Substantia Nigra pars compacta (SNpc) and by the presence of Lewy bodies. PD is diagnosed upon the onset of motor symptoms, such as bradykinesia, resting tremor, rigidity, and postural instability. It is currently accepted that motor symptoms are preceded by non-motor features, such as gastrointestinal dysfunction. In fact, it has been proposed that PD might start in the gut and spread to the central nervous system. Growing evidence reports that the gut microbiota, which has been found to be altered in PD patients, influences the function of the central and enteric nervous systems. Altered expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) in PD patients has also been reported, many of which regulate key pathological mechanisms involved in PD pathogenesis, such as mitochondrial dysfunction and immunity. It remains unknown how gut microbiota regulates brain function; however, miRNAs have been highlighted as important players. Remarkably, numerous studies have depicted the ability of miRNAs to modulate and be regulated by the host's gut microbiota. In this review, we summarize the experimental and clinical studies implicating mitochondrial dysfunction and immunity in PD. Moreover, we gather recent data on miRNA involvement in these two processes. Ultimately, we discuss the reciprocal crosstalk between gut microbiota and miRNAs. Studying the bidirectional interaction of gut microbiome-miRNA might elucidate the aetiology and pathogenesis of gut-first PD, which could lead to the application of miRNAs as potential biomarkers or therapeutical targets for PD.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Parkinson's Disease: Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Strategies

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common age-related neurodegenerative disorder whose pathogenesis is not completely understood. Mitochondrial dysfunction and increased oxidative stress have been considered as major causes and central events responsible for the progressive degeneration of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in PD. Therefore, investigating mitochondrial disorders plays a role in understanding the pathogenesis of PD and can be an important therapeutic target for this disease. This study discusses the effect of environmental, genetic and biological factors on mitochondrial dysfunction and also focuses on the mitochondrial molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration, and its possible therapeutic targets in PD, including reactive oxygen species generation, calcium overload, inflammasome activation, apoptosis, mitophagy, mitochondrial biogenesis, and mitochondrial dynamics. Other potential therapeutic strategies such as mitochondrial transfer/transplantation, targeting microRNAs, using stem cells, photobiomodulation, diet, and exercise were also discussed in this review, which may provide valuable insights into clinical aspects. A better understanding of the roles of mitochondria in the pathophysiology of PD may provide a rationale for designing novel therapeutic interventions in our fight against PD.

Calcium Homeostasis in the Control of Mitophagy

Significance: Maintenance of mitochondrial quality is essential for cellular homeostasis. Among processes responsible for preserving healthy mitochondria, mitophagy selectively eliminates dysfunctional mitochondria by targeting them to the autophagosome for degradation. Alterations in mitophagy lead to the accumulation of damaged mitochondria, which plays an essential role in several diseases such as carcinogenesis and tumor progression, neurodegenerative disorders, and autoimmune and cardiovascular pathologies. Recent Advances: Calcium (Ca²⁺) plays a fundamental role in cell life, modulating several pathways, such as gene expression, proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, cell death, and survival. Indeed, because it is involved in all these events, Ca²⁺ is the most versatile intracellular second messenger. Being a process that limits cellular degeneration, mitophagy participates in cellular fate decisions. Several mitochondrial parameters, such as membrane potential, structure, and reactive oxygen species, can trigger the activation of mitophagic machinery. These parameters regulate not only mitophagy but also the mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uptake. Critical Issues: Ca²⁺ handling is fundamental in regulating ATP production by mitochondria and mitochondrial quality control processes. Despite the growing literature about the link between Ca²⁺ and mitophagy, the mechanism by which Ca²⁺ homeostasis regulates mitophagy is still debated. Future Directions: Several studies have revealed that excessive mitophagy together with altered mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uptake leads to different dysfunctions in numerous diseases. Thus, therapeutic modulation of these pathways is considered a promising treatment. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 38, 581-598.

Autophagy and autophagy-related molecules in neurodegenerative diseases

Autophagy is one of the degradation pathways to remove proteins or damaged organelles in cells that plays an important role in neuroprotection. Different stages of autophagy are regulated by autophagy-related genes, and many molecules such as transcription factor EB (TFEB) are involved. The complete autophagy process plays an important role in maintaining the dynamic balance of autophagy and is crucial to the homeostasis of intracellular substance and energy metabolism. Autophagy balance is disrupted in neurodegenerative diseases, accounting for a variety of degeneration disorders. These impairments can be alleviated or treated by the regulation of autophagy through molecules such as TFEB.

iPSC-Derived Neurons from Patients with POLG Mutations Exhibit Decreased Mitochondrial Content and Dendrite Simplification

Mutations in POLG, the gene encoding the catalytic subunit of DNA polymerase gamma, result in clinical syndromes characterized by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) depletion in affected tissues with variable organ involvement. The brain is one of the most affected organs, and symptoms include intractable seizures, developmental delay, dementia, and ataxia. Patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provide opportunities to explore mechanisms in affected cell types and potential therapeutic strategies. Fibroblasts from two patients were reprogrammed to create new iPSC models of POLG-related mitochondrial diseases. Compared with iPSC-derived control neurons, mtDNA depletion was observed upon differentiation of the POLG-mutated lines to cortical neurons. POLG-mutated neurons exhibited neurite simplification with decreased mitochondrial content, abnormal mitochondrial structure and function, and increased cell death. Expression of the mitochondrial kinase PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) mRNA was decreased in patient neurons. Overexpression of PINK1 increased mitochondrial content and ATP:ADP ratios in neurites, decreasing cell death and rescuing neuritic complexity. These data indicate an intersection of polymerase gamma and PINK1 pathways that may offer a novel therapeutic option for patients affected by this spectrum of disorders.

Advances in Gene Therapy Techniques to Treat LRRK2 Gene Mutation

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene mutation is an autosomal dominant mutation associated with Parkinson's disease (PD). Among LRRK2 gene mutations, the LRRK2 G2019S mutation is frequently involved in PD onset. Currently, diverse gene correction tools such as zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs), helper-dependent adenoviral vector (HDAdV), the bacterial artificial chromosome-based homologous recombination (BAC-based HR) system, and CRISPR/Cas9-homology-directed repair (HDR) or adenine base editor (ABE) are used in genome editing. Gene correction of the LRRK2 G2019S mutation has been applied whenever new gene therapy tools emerge, being mainly applied to induced pluripotent stem cells (LRRK2 G2019S-mutant iPSCs). Here, we comprehensively introduce the principles and methods of each programmable nuclease such as ZFN, CRISPR/Cas9-HDR or ABE applied to LRRK2 G2019S, as well as those of HDAdV or BAC-based HR systems used as nonprogrammable nuclease systems.

Autophagy and Its Association with Genetic Mutations in Parkinson Disease

Parkinson disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, affecting 0.1-0.2% of the general population. It is a progressive debilitating disorder caused by degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. It is characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms. Parkinson disease can be caused by mutations in genes that encode proteins involved in the autophagic process, resulting in impaired autophagy. Indeed, autophagy has been implicated in the pathogenesis of Parkinson disease, particularly because its impairment causes the buildup of proteins. Thus, this review aims to provide an overview of Parkinson disease-related genetic mutations and their association with autophagy impairment in Parkinson disease, which can be helpful in improving the understanding of the pathogenesis of Parkinson disease, illustrating the potential therapeutic implications of agents that can enhance autophagy in Parkinson disease. Additionally, we will highlight the essential need for the development of highly sensitive and specific assays for gene-based diagnostic biomarkers. Finally, we will provide an overview on the potential gene-based therapeutic approaches for Parkinson disease, which have been most advanced and are associated with the most common targets being alpha-synuclein (SNCA), leucine-rich repeat kinase-2 (LRRK2), and glucocerebrosidase (GBA).

The efficient generation of knockout microglia cells using a dual-sgRNA strategy by CRISPR/Cas9

Gene deletion in microglia has become an important and exciting approach for studying neuroinflammation, especially after the development of the CRISPR/Cas9 system for genome editing during the last decade. In this study, we described a protocol for the highly efficient generation of knockout microglia cells using a dual-short guide RNA (sgRNA) strategy by CRISPR/Cas9. Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2), a pathogenic gene of Parkinson's disease (PD), has played versatile roles during the disease development. Despite many key insights into LRRK2 studies, the normal and disease-related functions of LRRK2 in microglia and neuroinflammation remain to be fully investigated. Given the importance of LRRK2 in PD pathogenesis, we designed and applied the protocol to target LRRK2. Specifically, we designed two sgRNAs targeting the N terminus of LRRK2, spanning the 5' untranslated region (UTR) and exon 1, and screened knockout cells by single-cell expansion. In practice, the dual-sgRNA system can facilitate in obtaining knockout cells in a more convenient, rapid, and accurate way. Candidate knockout cells can be easily distinguished by genomic PCR and running on agarose gels, based on the different band sizes. Successful knockouts were further verified by Sanger sequencing and Western blot. Using this protocol, we obtained an LRRK2-deficient microglia cell line, which was characterized by longer cellular processes, enhanced adhesion, and weakened migration capacity. The knockout microglia may further serve as an important cellular tool to reveal conserved and novel aspects of LRRK2 functions in the development and progression of PD. Our protocol using dual-sgRNA targeting guarantees > 60% targeting efficiency and could also be applied to targeting other genes/loci, especially non-coding RNAs and regulatory elements.

Endogenous PTEN-Induced Kinase 1 Regulates Dendritic Architecture and Spinogenesis

Mutations in PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) contribute to autosomal recessive Parkinson's disease with cognitive and neuropsychiatric comorbidities. Disturbances in dendritic and spine architecture are hallmarks of neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric conditions, but little is known of the impact of PINK1 on these structures. We used Pink1 -/- mice to study the role of endogenous PINK1 in regulating dendritic architecture, spine density, and spine maturation. Pink1 -/- cortical neurons of unknown sex showed decreased dendritic arborization, affecting both apical and basal arbors. Dendritic simplification in Pink1 -/- neurons was primarily driven by diminished branching with smaller effects on branch lengths. Pink1 -/- neurons showed reduced spine density with a shift in morphology to favor filopodia at the expense of mushroom spines. Electrophysiology revealed significant reductions in miniature EPSC (mEPSC) frequency in Pink1 -/- neurons, consistent with the observation of decreased spine numbers. Transfecting with human PINK1 rescued changes in dendritic architecture, in thin, stubby, and mushroom spine densities, and in mEPSC frequency. Diminished spine density was also observed in Golgi-Cox stained adult male Pink1 -/- brains. Western blot study of Pink1 -/- brains of either sex revealed reduced phosphorylation of NSFL1 cofactor p47, an indirect target of PINK1. Transfection of Pink1 -/- neurons with a phosphomimetic p47 plasmid rescued dendritic branching and thin/stubby spine density with a partial rescue of mushroom spines, implicating a role for PINK1-regulated p47 phosphorylation in dendrite and spine development. These findings suggest that PINK1-dependent synaptodendritic alterations may contribute to the risk of cognitive and/or neuropsychiatric pathologies observed in PINK1-mutated families.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Loss of PINK1 function has been implicated in both familial and sporadic neurodegenerative diseases. Yet surprisingly little is known of the impact of PINK1 loss on the fine structure of neurons. Neurons receive excitatory synaptic signals along a complex network of projections that form the dendritic tree, largely at tiny protrusions called dendritic spines. We studied cortical neurons and brain tissues from mice lacking PINK1. We discovered that PINK1 deficiency causes striking simplification of dendritic architecture associated with reduced synaptic input and decreased spine density and maturation. These changes are reversed by reintroducing human PINK1 or one of its downstream mediators into PINK1-deficient mouse neurons, indicating a conserved function, whose loss may contribute to neurodegenerative processes.

Mitophagy, a Form of Selective Autophagy, Plays an Essential Role in Mitochondrial Dynamics of Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a severe neurodegenerative disorder caused by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and affects millions of people. Currently, mitochondrial dysfunction is considered as a central role in the pathogenesis of both sporadic and familial forms of PD. Mitophagy, a process that selectively targets damaged or redundant mitochondria to the lysosome for elimination via the autophagy devices, is crucial in preserving mitochondrial health. So far, aberrant mitophagy has been observed in the postmortem of PD patients and genetic or toxin-induced models of PD. Except for mitochondrial dysfunction, mitophagy is involved in regulating several other PD-related pathological mechanisms as well, e.g., oxidative stress and calcium imbalance. So far, the mitophagy mechanisms induced by PD-related proteins, PINK1 and Parkin, have been studied widely, and several other PD-associated genes, e.g., DJ-1, LRRK2, and alpha-synuclein, have been discovered to participate in the regulation of mitophagy as well, which further strengthens the link between mitophagy and PD. Thus, in this view, we reviewed mitophagy pathways in belief and discussed the interactions between mitophagy and several PD's pathological mechanisms and how PD-related genes modulate the mitophagy process.

The Double-Faceted Role of Leucine-Rich Repeat Kinase 2 in the Immunopathogenesis of Parkinson's Disease

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) is one of the most common causative genes in Parkinson's disease (PD). The complex structure of this multiple domains' protein determines its versatile functions in multiple physiological processes, including migration, autophagy, phagocytosis, and mitochondrial function, among others. Mounting studies have also demonstrated the role of LRRK2 in mediating neuroinflammation, the prominent hallmark of PD, and intricate functions in immune cells, such as microglia, macrophages, and astrocytes. Of those, microglia were extensively studied in PD, which serves as the resident immune cell of the central nervous system that is rapidly activated upon neuronal injury and pathogenic insult. Moreover, the activation and function of immune cells can be achieved by modulating their intracellular metabolic profiles, in which LRRK2 plays an emerging role. Here, we provide an updated review focusing on the double-faceted role of LRRK2 in regulating various cellular physiology and immune functions especially in microglia. Moreover, we will summarize the latest discovery of the three-dimensional structure of LRRK2, as well as the function and dysfunction of LRRK2 in immune cell-related pathways.

Oxidative phosphorylation mediated pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease and its implication via Akt signaling

Substantia Nigra Pars-compacta (SNpc), in the basal ganglion region, is a primary source of dopamine release. These dopaminergic neurons require more energy than other neurons, as they are highly arborized and redundant. Neurons meet most of their energy demand (∼90%) from mitochondria. Oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) is the primary pathway for energy production. Many genes involved in Parkinson's disease (PD) have been associated with OxPhos, especially complex I. Abrogation in complex I leads to reduced ATP formation in these neurons, succumbing to death by inducing apoptosis. This review discusses the interconnection between complex I-associated PD genes and specific mitochondrial metabolic factors (MMFs) of OxPhos. Interestingly, all the complex I-associated PD genes discussed here have been linked to the Akt signaling pathway; thus, neuron survival is promoted and smooth mitochondrial function is ensured. Any changes in these genes disrupt the Akt pathway, which hampers the opening of the permeability transition pore (PTP) via GSK3β dephosphorylation; promotes destabilization of OxPhos; and triggers the release of pro-apoptotic factors.

Acetaldehyde Induces Cytotoxicity via Triggering Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Overactive Mitophagy

Overconsumption of alcohol damages brain tissue and causes cognitive dysfunction. It has been suggested that the neurotoxicity caused by excessive alcohol consumption is largely mediated by acetaldehyde, the most toxic metabolite of ethanol. Evidence shows that acetaldehyde impairs mitochondrial function and induces cytotoxicity of neuronal cells; however, the exact mechanisms are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of mitophagy in acetaldehyde-induced cytotoxicity. It was found that acetaldehyde treatment induced mitophagic responses and caused cytotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. The levels of light chain 3 (LC3)-II, Beclin1, autophagy-related protein (Atg) 5 and Atg16L1, PTEN-induced putative kinase (PINK)1, and Parkin were significantly elevated, while the level of p62 was reduced in acetaldehyde-treated cells. Acetaldehyde also promoted the accumulation of PINK1 and Parkin on mitochondria and caused a remarkable decrease of mitochondrial mass. Treatment with autophagy inhibitors prevented the decline of mitochondrial mass and alleviated the cytotoxicity induced by acetaldehyde, suggesting that overactive mitophagy might be an important mechanism contributing to acetaldehyde-induced cytotoxicity. Antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine significantly attenuated the mitophagic responses and alleviated the cytotoxicity induced by acetaldehyde, indicating that oxidative stress was a major mediator of the excessive mitophagy induced by acetaldehyde. Taken together, these findings provided new insights into the role of mitophagy and oxidative stress in acetaldehyde-induced cytotoxicity.

Mitochondria in neurodegeneration

The brain is one of the most energetically demanding tissues in the human body, and mitochondrial pathology is strongly implicated in chronic neurodegenerative diseases. In contrast to acute brain injuries in which bioenergetics and cell death play dominant roles, studies modeling familial neurodegeneration implicate a more complex and nuanced relationship involving the entire mitochondrial life cycle. Recent literature on mitochondrial mechanisms in Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is reviewed with an emphasis on mitochondrial quality control, transport and synaptodendritic calcium homeostasis. Potential neuroprotective interventions include targeting the mitochondrial kinase PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1), which plays a role in regulating not only multiple facets of mitochondrial biology, but also neuronal morphogenesis and dendritic arborization.

The different autophagy degradation pathways and neurodegeneration

The term autophagy encompasses different pathways that route cytoplasmic material to lysosomes for degradation and includes macroautophagy, chaperone-mediated autophagy, and microautophagy. Since these pathways are crucial for degradation of aggregate-prone proteins and dysfunctional organelles such as mitochondria, they help to maintain cellular homeostasis. As post-mitotic neurons cannot dilute unwanted protein and organelle accumulation by cell division, the nervous system is particularly dependent on autophagic pathways. This dependence may be a vulnerability as people age and these processes become less effective in the brain. Here, we will review how the different autophagic pathways may protect against neurodegeneration, giving examples of both polygenic and monogenic diseases. We have considered how autophagy may have roles in normal CNS functions and the relationships between these degradative pathways and different types of programmed cell death. Finally, we will provide an overview of recently described strategies for upregulating autophagic pathways for therapeutic purposes.

Excitotoxicity, calcium and mitochondria: a triad in synaptic neurodegeneration

Glutamate is the most commonly engaged neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system, acting to mediate excitatory neurotransmission. However, high levels of glutamatergic input elicit excitotoxicity, contributing to neuronal cell death following acute brain injuries such as stroke and trauma. While excitotoxic cell death has also been implicated in some neurodegenerative disease models, the role of acute apoptotic cell death remains controversial in the setting of chronic neurodegeneration. Nevertheless, it is clear that excitatory synaptic dysregulation contributes to neurodegeneration, as evidenced by protective effects of partial N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists. Here, we review evidence for sublethal excitatory injuries in relation to neurodegeneration associated with Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Huntington's disease. In contrast to classic excitotoxicity, emerging evidence implicates dysregulation of mitochondrial calcium handling in excitatory post-synaptic neurodegeneration. We discuss mechanisms that regulate mitochondrial calcium uptake and release, the impact of LRRK2, PINK1, Parkin, beta-amyloid and glucocerebrosidase on mitochondrial calcium transporters, and the role of autophagic mitochondrial loss in axodendritic shrinkage. Finally, we discuss strategies for normalizing the flux of calcium into and out of the mitochondrial matrix, thereby preventing mitochondrial calcium toxicity and excitotoxic dendritic loss. While the mechanisms that underlie increased uptake or decreased release of mitochondrial calcium vary in different model systems, a common set of strategies to normalize mitochondrial calcium flux can prevent excitatory mitochondrial toxicity and may be neuroprotective in multiple disease contexts.

LRRK2 at Striatal Synapses: Cell-Type Specificity and Mechanistic Insights

Mutations in leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) cause Parkinson’s disease with a similar clinical presentation and progression to idiopathic Parkinson’s disease, and common variation is linked to disease risk. Recapitulation of the genotype in rodent models causes abnormal dopamine release and increases the susceptibility of dopaminergic neurons to insults, making LRRK2 a valuable model for understanding the pathobiology of Parkinson’s disease. It is also a promising druggable target with targeted therapies currently in development. LRRK2 mRNA and protein expression in the brain is highly variable across regions and cellular identities. A growing body of work has demonstrated that pathogenic LRRK2 mutations disrupt striatal synapses before the onset of overt neurodegeneration. Several substrates and interactors of LRRK2 have been identified to potentially mediate these pre-neurodegenerative changes in a cell-type-specific manner. This review discusses the effects of pathogenic LRRK2 mutations in striatal neurons, including cell-type-specific and pathway-specific alterations. It also highlights several LRRK2 effectors that could mediate the alterations to striatal function, including Rabs and protein kinase A. The lessons learned from improving our understanding of the pathogenic effects of LRRK2 mutations in striatal neurons will be applicable to both dissecting the cell-type specificity of LRRK2 function in the transcriptionally diverse subtypes of dopaminergic neurons and also increasing our understanding of basal ganglia development and biology. Finally, it will inform the development of therapeutics for Parkinson’s disease.

Mitochondrial Protein PGAM5 Emerges as a New Regulator in Neurological Diseases

As mitochondrial dysfunction has increasingly been implicated in neurological diseases, much of the investigation focuses on the response of the mitochondria. It appears that mitochondria can respond to external stimuli speedy fast, in seconds. Understanding how mitochondria sense the signal and communicate with cytosolic pathways are keys to understand mitochondrial regulation in diseases or in response to trauma. It was not until recently that a novel mitochondrial protein, phosphoglycerate mutase family member 5 (PGAM5) has emerged to be a new regulator of mitochondrial homeostasis. Although controversial results reveal beneficial as well as detrimental roles of PGAM5 in cancers, these findings also suggest PGAM5 may have diverse regulation on cellular physiology. Roles of PGAM5 in neuronal tissues remain to be uncovered. This review discusses current knowledge of PGAM5 in neurological diseases and provides future perspectives.

Glucocerebrosidase 1 and leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 in Parkinson disease and interplay between the two genes

The glucocerebrosidase 1 gene (GBA1), bi-allelic variants of which cause Gaucher disease (GD), encodes the lysosomal enzyme glucocerebrosidase (GCase) and is a risk factor for Parkinson Disease (PD). GBA1 variants are linked to a reduction in GCase activity in the brain. Variants in Leucine-Rich Repeat Kinase 2 (LRRK2), such as the gain-of-kinase-function variant G2019S, cause the most common familial form of PD. In patients without GBA1 and LRRK2 mutations, GCase and LRRK2 activity are also altered, suggesting that these two genes are implicated in all forms of PD and that they may play a broader role in PD pathogenesis. In this review, we review the proposed roles of GBA1 and LRRK2 in PD, focussing on the endolysosomal pathway. In particular, we highlight the discovery of Ras-related in brain (Rab) guanosine triphosphatases (GTPases) as LRRK2 kinase substrates and explore the links between increased LRRK2 activity and Rab protein function, lysosomal dysfunction, alpha-synuclein accumulation and GCase activity. We also discuss the discovery of RAB10 as a potential mediator of LRRK2 and GBA1 interaction in PD. Finally, we discuss the therapeutic implications of these findings, including current approaches and future perspectives related to novel drugs targeting LRRK2 and GBA1.

Parkinson Disease: Translating Insights from Molecular Mechanisms to Neuroprotection

Parkinson disease (PD) used to be considered a nongenetic condition. However, the identification of several autosomal dominant and recessive mutations linked to monogenic PD has changed this view. Clinically manifest PD is then thought to occur through a complex interplay between genetic mutations, many of which have incomplete penetrance, and environmental factors, both neuroprotective and increasing susceptibility, which variably interact to reach a threshold over which PD becomes clinically manifested. Functional studies of PD gene products have identified many cellular and molecular pathways, providing crucial insights into the nature and causes of PD. PD originates from multiple causes and a range of pathogenic processes at play, ultimately culminating in nigral dopaminergic loss and motor dysfunction. An in-depth understanding of these complex and possibly convergent pathways will pave the way for therapeutic approaches to alleviate the disease symptoms and neuroprotective strategies to prevent disease manifestations. This review is aimed at providing a comprehensive understanding of advances made in PD research based on leveraging genetic insights into the pathogenesis of PD. It further discusses novel perspectives to facilitate identification of critical molecular pathways that are central to neurodegeneration that hold the potential to develop neuroprotective and/or neurorestorative therapeutic strategies for PD. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: A comprehensive review of PD pathophysiology is provided on the complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors and biologic processes that contribute to PD pathogenesis. This knowledge identifies new targets that could be leveraged into disease-modifying therapies to prevent or slow neurodegeneration in PD.

The epigenetic mechanisms involved in mitochondrial dysfunction: Implication for Parkinson's disease

Mitochondrial dysfunction is one of the crucial factors involved in PD’s pathogenicity, which emerges from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. These factors cause differential molecular expression in neurons, such as varied transcriptional regulation of genes, elevated oxidative stress, α‐synuclein aggregation and endogenous neurotoxins release, which induces epigenetic modifications and triggers energy crisis by damaging mitochondria of the dopaminergic neurons (DN). So far, these events establish a complicated relationship with underlying mechanisms of mitochondrial anomalies in PD, which has remained unclear for years and made PD diagnosis and treatment extremely difficult. Therefore, in this review, we endeavored to discuss the complex association of epigenetic modifications and other associated vital factors in mitochondrial dysfunction. We propose a hypothesis that describes a vicious cycle in which mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress act as a hub for regulating DA neuron's fate in PD. Oxidative stress triggers the release of endogenous neurotoxins (CTIQs) that lead to mitochondrial dysfunction along with abnormal α‐synuclein aggregation and epigenetic modifications. These disturbances further intensify oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage, amplifying the synthesis of CTIQs and works vice versa. This vicious cycle may result in the degeneration of DN to hallmark Parkinsonism. Furthermore, we have also highlighted various endogenous compounds and epigenetic marks (neurotoxic and neuroprotective), which may help for devising future diagnostic biomarkers and target specific drugs using novel PD management strategies.

Calcium Signaling Regulates Autophagy and Apoptosis

Calcium (Ca²⁺) functions as a second messenger that is critical in regulating fundamental physiological functions such as cell growth/development, cell survival, neuronal development and/or the maintenance of cellular functions. The coordination among various proteins/pumps/Ca²⁺ channels and Ca²⁺ storage in various organelles is critical in maintaining cytosolic Ca²⁺ levels that provide the spatial resolution needed for cellular homeostasis. An important regulatory aspect of Ca²⁺ homeostasis is a store operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE) mechanism that is activated by the depletion of Ca²⁺ from internal ER stores and has gained much attention for influencing functions in both excitable and non-excitable cells. Ca²⁺ has been shown to regulate opposing functions such as autophagy, that promote cell survival; on the other hand, Ca²⁺ also regulates programmed cell death processes such as apoptosis. The functional significance of the TRP/Orai channels has been elaborately studied; however, information on how they can modulate opposing functions and modulate function in excitable and non-excitable cells is limited. Importantly, perturbations in SOCE have been implicated in a spectrum of pathological neurodegenerative conditions. The critical role of autophagy machinery in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases, would presumably unveil avenues for plausible therapeutic interventions for these diseases. We thus review the role of SOCE-regulated Ca²⁺ signaling in modulating these diverse functions in stem cell, immune regulation and neuromodulation.

Cell competition from development to neurodegeneration

Cell competition is a process by which suboptimal cells are eliminated to the benefit of cells with higher fitness. It is a surveillance mechanism that senses differences in the fitness status by several modes, such as expression of fitness fingerprints, survival factor uptake rate and resistance to mechanical stress. Fitness fingerprints-mediated cell competition recognizes isoforms of the transmembrane protein Flower, and translates the relative fitness of cells into distinct fates through the Flower code. Impairments in cell competition potentiate the development of diseases like cancer and ageing-related pathologies. In cancer, malignant cells acquire a supercompetitor behaviour, killing the neighbouring cells and overtaking the tissue, thus avoiding elimination. Neurodegenerative disorders affect millions of people and are characterized by cognitive decline and locomotor deficits. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, and one of the largely studied diseases. However, the cellular processes taking place remain unclear. Drosophila melanogaster is an emerging neurodegeneration model due to its versatility as a tool for genetic studies. Research in a Drosophila Alzheimer's disease model detected fitness markers in the suboptimal and hyperactive neurons, thus establishing a link between cell competition and Alzheimer's disease. In this Review, we overview cell competition and the new insights related to neurodegenerative disorders, and discuss how research in the field might contribute to the development of new therapeutic targets for these diseases.

Curcumin pre-treatment may protect against mitochondrial damage in LRRK2-mutant Parkinson's disease and healthy control fibroblasts

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been proposed as one of the pathobiological underpinnings in Parkinson's disease. Environmental stressors, such as paraquat, induce mitochondrial dysfunction and promote reactive oxygen species production. Targeting oxidative stress pathways could prevent mitochondrial dysfunction and thereby halt the neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease. Since curcumin is touted as an antioxidant and neuroprotective agent, the aim of this study was to investigate if curcumin is a suitable therapy to target mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinson's disease using a paraquat-toxicity induced model in fibroblasts from LRRK2-mutation positive Parkinson's disease individuals and healthy controls. The fibroblasts were exposed to five treatment groups, (i) untreated, (ii) curcumin only, (iii) paraquat only, (iv) pre-curcumin group: with curcumin for 2hr followed by paraquat for 24hr and (v) post-curcumin group: with paraquat for 24hr followed by curcumin for 2hr. Mitochondrial function was determined by measuring three parameters of mitochondrial respiration (maximal respiration, ATP-associated respiration, and spare respiratory capacity) using the Seahorse XF^e96 Extracellular Flux Analyzer. As expected, paraquat effectively disrupted mitochondrial function for all parameters. Pre-curcumin treatment improved maximal and ATP-associated respiration whereas, post-curcumin treatment had no effect. These findings indicate that curcumin may be most beneficial as a pre-treatment before toxin exposure, which has implications for its therapeutic use. These promising findings warrant future studies testing different curcumin dosages, exposure times and curcumin formulations in larger sample sizes of Parkinson's disease and control participants.

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Paraquat reduced respiration in Parkinson's disease and control fibroblasts.

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Curcumin, an antioxidant, improved mitochondrial respiration, as a pre-treatment.

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Post-treatment with curcumin did not improve mitochondrial respiration.

Neuronal autophagy and mitophagy in Parkinson's disease

Autophagy is the process by which cells can selectively or non-selectively remove damaged proteins and organelles. As the cell's main means of sequestering damaged mitochondria for removal, mitophagy is central to cellular function and survival. Research on autophagy and mitochondrial quality control has increased exponentially in relation to the pathogenesis of numerous disease conditions, from cancer and immune diseases to chronic neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease (PD). Understanding how components of the autophagic/mitophagic machinery are affected during disease, as well as the contextual relationship of autophagy with determining neuronal health and function, is essential to the goal of designing therapies for human disease. In this review, we will summarize key signaling molecules that consign damaged mitochondria for autophagic degradation, describe the relationship of genes linked to PD to autophagy/mitophagy dysfunction, and discuss additional roles of both mitochondrial and cytosolic pools of PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) in mitochondrial homeostasis, dendritic morphogenesis and inflammation.

Development of a physiologically relevant and easily scalable LUHMES cell-based model of G2019S LRRK2-driven Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder that is primarily caused by the degeneration and loss of dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra in the ventral midbrain. Mutations in leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) are the most common genetic cause of late-onset PD identified to date, with G2019S being the most frequent LRRK2 mutation, which is responsible for up to 1-2% of sporadic PD and up to 6% of familial PD cases. As no treatment is available for this devastating disease, developing new therapeutic strategies is of foremost importance. Cellular models are commonly used for testing novel potential neuroprotective compounds. However, current cellular PD models either lack physiological relevance to dopaminergic neurons or are too complex and costly for scaling up the production process and for screening purposes. In order to combine biological relevance and throughput, we have developed a PD model in Lund human mesencephalic (LUHMES) cell-derived dopaminergic neurons by overexpressing wild-type (WT) and G2019S LRRK2 proteins. We show that these cells can differentiate into dopaminergic-like neurons and that expression of mutant LRRK2 causes a range of different phenotypes, including reduced nuclear eccentricity, altered mitochondrial and lysosomal morphologies, and increased dopaminergic cell death. This model could be used to elucidate G2019S LRRK2-mediated dopaminergic neural dysfunction and to identify novel molecular targets for disease intervention. In addition, our model could be applied to high-throughput and phenotypic screenings for the identification of novel PD therapeutics.

Synaptopathy Mechanisms in ALS Caused by C9orf72 Repeat Expansion

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a complex neurodegenerative disease caused by degeneration of motor neurons (MNs). ALS pathogenic features include accumulation of misfolded proteins, glutamate excitotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction at distal axon terminals, and neuronal cytoskeleton changes. Synergies between loss of C9orf72 functions and gain of function by toxic effects of repeat expansions also contribute to C9orf72-mediated pathogenesis. However, the impact of haploinsufficiency of C9orf72 on neurons and in synaptic functions requires further examination. As the motor neurons degenerate, the disease symptoms will lead to neurotransmission deficiencies in the brain, spinal cord, and neuromuscular junction. Altered neuronal excitability, synaptic morphological changes, and C9orf72 protein and DPR localization at the synapses, suggest a potential involvement of C9orf72 at synapses. In this review article, we provide a conceptual framework for assessing the putative involvement of C9orf72 as a synaptopathy, and we explore the underlying and common disease mechanisms with other neurodegenerative diseases. Finally, we reflect on the major challenges of understanding C9orf72-ALS as a synaptopathy focusing on integrating mitochondrial and neuronal cytoskeleton degeneration as biomarkers and potential targets to treat ALS neurodegeneration.

The parkinsonian LRRK2 R1441G mutation shows macroautophagy-mitophagy dysregulation concomitant with endoplasmic reticulum stress

Autophagy is a mechanism responsible for the degradation of cellular components to maintain their homeostasis. However, autophagy is commonly altered and compromised in several diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders. Parkinson's disease (PD) can be considered a multifactorial disease because environmental factors, genetic factors, and aging are involved. Several genes are involved in PD pathology, among which the LRRK2 gene and its mutations, inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, are responsible for most genetic PD cases. The R1441G LRRK2 mutation is, after G2019S, the most important in PD pathogenesis. Our results demonstrate a relationship between the R1441G LRRK2 mutation and a mechanistic dysregulation of autophagy that compromises cell viability. This altered autophagy mechanism is associated with organellar stress including mitochondrial (which induces mitophagy) and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, consistent with the fact that patients with this mutation are more vulnerable to toxins related to PD, such as MPP⁺.

Mutant-TMEM230-induced neurodegeneration and impaired axonal mitochondrial transport

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease with movement disorders including resting tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia and postural instability. Recent studies have identified a new PD associated gene, TMEM230 (transmembrane protein 230). However, the pathological roles of TMEM230 and its variants are not fully understood. TMEM230 gene encodes two protein isoforms. Isoform2 is the major protein form (~95%) in human. In this study, we overexpress isoform2 TMEM230 variants (WT or PD-linked *184Wext*5 mutant) or knockdown endogenous protein in cultured SH-5Y5Y cells and mouse primary hippocampus neurons to study their pathological roles. We found that overexpression of WT and mutant TMEM230 or knockdown of endogenous TMEM230-induced neurodegeneration and impaired mitochondria transport at the retrograde direction in axons. Mutant TMEM230 caused more severe neurotoxicity and mitochondrial transport impairment than WT-TMEM230 did. Our results demonstrate that maintaining TMEM230 protein levels is critical for neuron survival and axon transport. These findings suggest that mutant-TMEM230-induced mitochondrial transport impairment could be the early event leading to neurite injury and neurodegeneration in PD development.

The cell biology of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder resulting from the death of dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Our understanding of PD biology has been enriched by the identification of genes involved in its rare, inheritable forms, termed PARK genes. These genes encode proteins including α-syn, LRRK2, VPS35, parkin, PINK1, and DJ1, which can cause monogenetic PD when mutated. Investigating the cellular functions of these proteins has been instrumental in identifying signaling pathways that mediate pathology in PD and neuroprotective mechanisms active during homeostatic and pathological conditions. It is now evident that many PD-associated proteins perform multiple functions in PD-associated signaling pathways in neurons. Furthermore, several PARK proteins contribute to non-cell-autonomous mechanisms of neuron death, such as neuroinflammation. A comprehensive understanding of cell-autonomous and non-cell-autonomous pathways involved in PD is essential for developing therapeutics that may slow or halt its progression.

Mitochondrial clearance: mechanisms and roles in cellular fitness

Mitophagy is one of the selective autophagy pathways that catabolizes dysfunctional or superfluous mitochondria. Under mitophagy-inducing conditions, mitochondria are labeled with specific molecular landmarks that recruit the autophagy machinery to the surface of mitochondria, enclosed into autophagosomes, and delivered to lysosomes (vacuoles in yeast) for degradation. As damaged mitochondria are the major sources of reactive oxygen species, mitophagy is critical for mitochondrial quality control and cellular health. Moreover, appropriate control of mitochondrial quantity via mitophagy is vital for the energy supply-demand balance in cells and whole organisms, cell differentiation, and developmental programs. Thus, it seems conceivable that defects in mitophagy could elicit pleiotropic pathologies such as excess inflammation, tissue injury, neurodegeneration, and aging. In this review, we will focus on the molecular basis and physiological relevance of mitophagy, and potential of mitophagy as a therapeutic target to overcome such disorders.

Neuroprotective Role of GLP-1 Analog for Retinal Ganglion Cells via PINK1/Parkin-Mediated Mitophagy in Diabetic Retinopathy

GLP-1 analogs have been widely used to treat patients with type 2 diabetes in recent years and studies have found that GLP-1 analogs have multiple organ benefits. However, the role of GLP-1 analogs in diabetic retinopathy (DR), a common complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), remains controversial. Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are the only afferent neurons responsible for transmitting visual information to the visual center and are vulnerable in the early stage of DR. Protection of RGC is vital for visual function. The incretin glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which is secreted by L-cells after food ingestion, could lower blood glucose level through stimulating the release of insulin. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of GLP-1 analog on RGCs both in vitro and in vivo. We established diabetic rat models in vivo and applied an RGC-5 cell line in vitro. The results showed that in high glucose conditions, GLP-1 analog alleviated the damage of RGCs. In addition, GLP-1 analog prevented mitophagy through the PINK1/Parkin pathway. Here we demonstrated the neuroprotective effect of GLP-1 analog, which may be beneficial for retinal function, and we further elucidated a novel mechanism in GLP-1 analog-regulated protection of the retina. These findings may expand the multi-organ benefits of GLP-1 analogs and provide new insights for the prevention of DR.

Neuronal Mitophagy: Friend or Foe?

Maintenance of neuronal homeostasis is a challenging task, due to unique cellular organization and bioenergetic demands of post-mitotic neurons. It is increasingly appreciated that impairment of mitochondrial homeostasis represents an early sign of neuronal dysfunction that is common in both age-related neurodegenerative as well as in neurodevelopmental disorders. Mitochondrial selective autophagy, known as mitophagy, regulates mitochondrial number ensuring cellular adaptation in response to several intracellular and environmental stimuli. Mounting evidence underlines that deregulation of mitophagy levels has an instructive role in the process of neurodegeneration. Although mitophagy induction mediates the elimination of damaged mitochondria and confers neuroprotection, uncontrolled runaway mitophagy could reduce mitochondrial content overstressing the remaining organelles and eventually triggering neuronal cell death. Unveiling the molecular mechanisms of neuronal mitophagy and its intricate role in neuronal survival and cell death, will assist in the development of novel mitophagy modulators to promote cellular and organismal homeostasis in health and disease.

Dysfunction of Mitochondrial Ca2+ Regulatory Machineries in Brain Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases

Calcium ions (Ca²⁺) play critical roles in neuronal processes, such as signaling pathway activation, transcriptional regulation, and synaptic transmission initiation. Therefore, the regulation of Ca²⁺ homeostasis is one of the most important processes underlying the basic cellular viability and function of the neuron. Multiple components, including intracellular organelles and plasma membrane Ca²⁺-ATPase, are involved in neuronal Ca²⁺ control, and recent studies have focused on investigating the roles of mitochondria in synaptic function. Numerous mitochondrial Ca²⁺ regulatory proteins have been identified in the past decade, with studies demonstrating the tissue- or cell-type-specific function of each component. The mitochondrial calcium uniporter and its binding subunits are major inner mitochondrial membrane proteins contributing to mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uptake, whereas the mitochondrial Na⁺/Ca²⁺ exchanger (NCLX) and mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) are well-studied proteins involved in Ca²⁺ extrusion. The level of cytosolic Ca²⁺ and the resulting characteristics of synaptic vesicle release properties are controlled via mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uptake and release at presynaptic sites, while in dendrites, mitochondrial Ca²⁺ regulation affects synaptic plasticity. During brain aging and the progress of neurodegenerative disease, mitochondrial Ca²⁺ mishandling has been observed using various techniques, including live imaging of Ca²⁺ dynamics. Furthermore, Ca²⁺ dysregulation not only disrupts synaptic transmission but also causes neuronal cell death. Therefore, understanding the detailed pathophysiological mechanisms affecting the recently discovered mitochondrial Ca²⁺ regulatory machineries will help to identify novel therapeutic targets. Here, we discuss current research into mitochondrial Ca²⁺ regulatory machineries and how mitochondrial Ca²⁺ dysregulation contributes to brain aging and neurodegenerative disease.