1
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Li CL, Zhou GF, Xie XY, Wang L, Chen X, Pan QL, Pu YL, Yang J, Song L, Chen GJ. STAU1 exhibits a dual function by promoting amyloidogenesis and tau phosphorylation in cultured cells. Exp Neurol 2024; 377:114805. [PMID: 38729552 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Staufen-1 (STAU1) is a double-stranded RNA-binding protein (RBP) involved in a variety of pathological conditions. In this study, we investigated the potential role of STAU1 in Alzheimer's disease (AD), in which two hallmarks are well-established as cerebral β-amyloid protein (Aβ) deposition and Tau-centered neurofibrillary tangles. We found that STAU1 protein level was significantly increased in cells that stably express full-length APP and the brain of APP/PS1 mice, an animal model of AD. STAU1 knockdown, as opposed to overexpression, significantly decreased the protein levels of β-amyloid converting enzyme 1 (BACE1) and Aβ. We further found that STAU1 extended the half-life of the BACE1 mRNA through binding to the 3' untranslated region (3'UTR). Transcriptome analysis revealed that STAU1 enhanced the expression of growth arrest and DNA damage 45 β (GADD45B) upstream of P38 MAPK signaling, which contributed to STAU1-induced regulation of Tau phosphorylation at Ser396 and Thr181. Together, STAU1 promoted amyloidogenesis by inhibiting BACE1 mRNA decay, and augmented Tau phosphorylation through activating GADD45B in relation to P38 MAPK. Targeting STAU1 that acts on both amyloidogenesis and tauopathy may serve as an optimistic approach for AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Lu Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Gui-Feng Zhou
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xiao-Yong Xie
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xue Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Qiu-Ling Pan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Ya-Lan Pu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Li Song
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Guo-Jun Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital Of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Major Neurological and Mental Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China.
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2
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Islam M, Shen F, Regmi D, Petersen K, Karim MRU, Du D. Tau liquid-liquid phase separation: At the crossroads of tau physiology and tauopathy. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e30853. [PMID: 35980344 PMCID: PMC9938090 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal deposition of tau in neurons is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease and several other neurodegenerative disorders. In the past decades, extensive efforts have been made to explore the mechanistic pathways underlying the development of tauopathies. Recently, the discovery of tau droplet formation by liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) has received a great deal of attention. It has been reported that tau condensates have a biological role in promoting and stabilizing microtubule (MT) assembly. Furthermore, it has been hypothesized that the transition of phase-separated tau droplets to a gel-like state and then to fibrils is associated with the pathology of neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we outline LLPS, the structural disorder that facilitates tau droplet formation, the effects of posttranslational modification of tau on condensate formation, the physiological function of tau droplets, the pathways from droplet to toxic fibrils, and the therapeutic strategies for tauopathies that might evolve from toxic droplets. We expect a deeper understanding of tau LLPS will provide additional insights into tau physiology and tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majedul Islam
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida 33431, United States
| | - Fengyun Shen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida 33431, United States
| | - Deepika Regmi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida 33431, United States
| | - Katherine Petersen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida 33431, United States
| | - Md Raza Ul Karim
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida 33431, United States
| | - Deguo Du
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida 33431, United States
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3
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Lumpkin CJ, Patel H, Potts GK, Chaurasia S, Gibilisco L, Srivastava GP, Lee JY, Brown NJ, Amarante P, Williams JD, Karran E, Townsend M, Woods D, Ravikumar B. Broad proteomics analysis of seeding-induced aggregation of α-synuclein in M83 neurons reveals remodeling of proteostasis mechanisms that might contribute to Parkinson's disease pathogenesis. Mol Brain 2024; 17:26. [PMID: 38778381 PMCID: PMC11110445 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-024-01099-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Aggregation of misfolded α-synuclein (α-syn) is a key characteristic feature of Parkinson's disease (PD) and related synucleinopathies. The nature of these aggregates and their contribution to cellular dysfunction is still not clearly elucidated. We employed mass spectrometry-based total and phospho-proteomics to characterize the underlying molecular and biological changes due to α-syn aggregation using the M83 mouse primary neuronal model of PD. We identified gross changes in the proteome that coincided with the formation of large Lewy body-like α-syn aggregates in these neurons. We used protein-protein interaction (PPI)-based network analysis to identify key protein clusters modulating specific biological pathways that may be dysregulated and identified several mechanisms that regulate protein homeostasis (proteostasis). The observed changes in the proteome may include both homeostatic compensation and dysregulation due to α-syn aggregation and a greater understanding of both processes and their role in α-syn-related proteostasis may lead to improved therapeutic options for patients with PD and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey J Lumpkin
- AbbVie, Cambridge Research Center, 200 Sidney Street Cambridge, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hiral Patel
- AbbVie, Cambridge Research Center, 200 Sidney Street Cambridge, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Gregory K Potts
- Discovery Research, AbbVie Inc, 1 North Waukegan Rd, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA
| | - Shilpi Chaurasia
- Excelra Knowledge Solutions Pvt Ltd, Uppal, Hyderabad, India, 500039
| | - Lauren Gibilisco
- Genomics Research Center, Computational Biology Neuroscience, AbbVie, Cambridge Research Center, 200 Sidney Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Gyan P Srivastava
- Data & Statistical Sciences, AbbVie, Cambridge Research Center, 200 Sidney Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Janice Y Lee
- Discovery Research, AbbVie Inc, 1 North Waukegan Rd, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA
| | - Nathan J Brown
- Biotherapeutics, AbbVie Bioresearch Center, 100 Research Drive, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Patricia Amarante
- AbbVie, Cambridge Research Center, 200 Sidney Street Cambridge, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Jon D Williams
- Discovery Research, AbbVie Inc, 1 North Waukegan Rd, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA
| | - Eric Karran
- AbbVie, Cambridge Research Center, 200 Sidney Street Cambridge, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Matthew Townsend
- AbbVie, Cambridge Research Center, 200 Sidney Street Cambridge, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Dori Woods
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - Brinda Ravikumar
- AbbVie, Cambridge Research Center, 200 Sidney Street Cambridge, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
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4
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Mukherjee S, Poudyal M, Dave K, Kadu P, Maji SK. Protein misfolding and amyloid nucleation through liquid-liquid phase separation. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:4976-5013. [PMID: 38597222 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs01065a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is an emerging phenomenon in cell physiology and diseases. The weak multivalent interaction prerequisite for LLPS is believed to be facilitated through intrinsically disordered regions, which are prevalent in neurodegenerative disease-associated proteins. These aggregation-prone proteins also exhibit an inherent property for phase separation, resulting in protein-rich liquid-like droplets. The very high local protein concentration in the water-deficient confined microenvironment not only drives the viscoelastic transition from the liquid to solid-like state but also most often nucleate amyloid fibril formation. Indeed, protein misfolding, oligomerization, and amyloid aggregation are observed to be initiated from the LLPS of various neurodegeneration-related proteins. Moreover, in these cases, neurodegeneration-promoting genetic and environmental factors play a direct role in amyloid aggregation preceded by the phase separation. These cumulative recent observations ignite the possibility of LLPS being a prominent nucleation mechanism associated with aberrant protein aggregation. The present review elaborates on the nucleation mechanism of the amyloid aggregation pathway and the possible early molecular events associated with amyloid-related protein phase separation. It also summarizes the recent advancement in understanding the aberrant phase transition of major proteins contributing to neurodegeneration focusing on the common disease-associated factors. Overall, this review proposes a generic LLPS-mediated multistep nucleation mechanism for amyloid aggregation and its implication in neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Semanti Mukherjee
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
| | - Manisha Poudyal
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
| | - Kritika Dave
- Sunita Sanghi Centre of Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India
| | - Pradeep Kadu
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
| | - Samir K Maji
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India.
- Sunita Sanghi Centre of Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai 400076, India
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5
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Lu X, Lu J, Li S, Feng S, Wang Y, Cui L. The Role of Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation in the Accumulation of Pathological Proteins: New Perspectives on the Mechanism of Neurodegenerative Diseases. Aging Dis 2024:AD.2024.0209. [PMID: 38739933 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2024.0209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
It is widely accepted that living organisms form highly dynamic membrane-less organelles (MLOS) with various functions through phase separation, and the indispensable role that phase separation plays in the mechanisms of normal physiological functions and pathogenesis is gradually becoming clearer. Pathological aggregates, regarded as hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases, have been revealed to be closely related to aberrant phase separation. Specific proteins are assembled into condensates and transform into insoluble inclusions through aberrant phase separation, contributing to the development of diseases. In this review, we present an overview of the progress of phase separation research, involving its biological mechanisms and the status of research in neurodegenerative diseases, focusing on five main disease-specific proteins, tau, TDP-43, FUS, α-Syn and HTT, and how exactly these proteins reside within dynamic liquid-like compartments and thus turn into solid deposits. Further studies will yield new perspectives for understanding the aggregation mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies, and future research directions are anticipated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyu Lu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Jiongtong Lu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Shengnan Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Sifan Feng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Lili Cui
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Guangdong, School of Ocean and Tropical Medicine, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
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6
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Cui Q, Liu Z, Bai G. Friend or foe: The role of stress granule in neurodegenerative disease. Neuron 2024:S0896-6273(24)00286-1. [PMID: 38744273 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2024.04.025] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Stress granules (SGs) are dynamic membraneless organelles that form in response to cellular stress. SGs are predominantly composed of RNA and RNA-binding proteins that assemble through liquid-liquid phase separation. Although the formation of SGs is considered a transient and protective response to cellular stress, their dysregulation or persistence may contribute to various neurodegenerative diseases. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of SG physiology and pathology. It covers the formation, composition, regulation, and functions of SGs, along with their crosstalk with other membrane-bound and membraneless organelles. Furthermore, this review discusses the dual roles of SGs as both friends and foes in neurodegenerative diseases and explores potential therapeutic approaches targeting SGs. The challenges and future perspectives in this field are also highlighted. A more profound comprehension of the intricate relationship between SGs and neurodegenerative diseases could inspire the development of innovative therapeutic interventions against these devastating diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinqin Cui
- Department of Neurology of Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Nanhu Brain-Computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou 311100, China.
| | - Zongyu Liu
- Department of Neurology of Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ge Bai
- Department of Neurology of Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; Nanhu Brain-Computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou 311100, China; Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-Machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China; NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; Institute of Fundamental and Transdisciplinary Research, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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7
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Soliman AS, Umstead A, Lamp J, Vega IE. EFhd2 co-aggregates with monomeric and filamentous tau in vitro. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1373410. [PMID: 38765673 PMCID: PMC11100465 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1373410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Tauopathies are characterized by the abnormal buildup of tau protein, with early oligomeric forms associated with neurodegeneration and the later neurofibrillary tangles possibly conferring neuroprotection. The molecular mechanisms governing the formation of these tau species are unclear. Lately, there has been an increased focus on examining the interactions between tau and other proteins, along with their influence on the aggregation of tau. Our previous work revealed EFhd2's association with pathological tau in animal models and tauopathy brains. Herein, we examined the impact of EFhd2 on monomeric and filamentous tau in vitro. The results demonstrated that EFhd2 incubation with monomeric full length human tau (hTau40) formed amorphous aggregates, where both EFhd2 and hTau40 colocalized. Moreover, EFhd2 is entangled with arachidonic acid (ARA)-induced filamentous hTau40. Furthermore, EFhd2-induced aggregation with monomeric and filamentous hTau40 is EFhd2 concentration dependent. Using sandwich ELISA assays, we assessed the reactivity of TOC1 and Alz50-two conformation-specific tau antibodies-to EFhd2-hTau40 aggregates (in absence and presence of ARA). No TOC1 signal was detected in EFhd2 aggregates with monomeric hTau40 whereas EFhd2 aggregates with hTau in the presence of ARA showed a higher signal compared to hTau40 filaments. In contrast, EFhd2 aggregates with both monomeric and filamentous hTau40 reduced Alz50 reactivity. Taken together, our results illustrate for the first time that EFhd2, a tau-associated protein, interacts with monomeric and filamentous hTau40 to form large aggregates that are starkly different from tau oligomers and filaments. Given these findings and previous research, we hypothesize that EFhd2 may play a role in the formation of tau aggregates. Nevertheless, further in vivo studies are imperative to test this hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahlam S. Soliman
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
- Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Andrew Umstead
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
- Integrated Mass Spectrometry Unit, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Jared Lamp
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Irving E. Vega
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
- Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
- Integrated Mass Spectrometry Unit, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Michigan Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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8
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Fang M, Liu Y, Huang C, Fan S. Targeting stress granules in neurodegenerative diseases: A focus on biological function and dynamics disorders. Biofactors 2024; 50:422-438. [PMID: 37966813 DOI: 10.1002/biof.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Stress granules (SGs) are membraneless organelles formed by eukaryotic cells in response to stress to promote cell survival through their pleiotropic cytoprotective effects. SGs recruit a variety of components to enhance their physiological function, and play a critical role in the propagation of pathological proteins, a key factor in neurodegeneration. Recent advances indicate that SG dynamic disorders exacerbate neuronal susceptibility to stress in neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) including Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), Huntington's disease (HD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Here, we outline the biological functions of SGs, highlight SG dynamic disorders in NDs, and emphasize therapeutic approaches for enhancing SG dynamics to provide new insights into ND intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minglv Fang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shengjie Fan
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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9
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Zacco E, Broglia L, Kurihara M, Monti M, Gustincich S, Pastore A, Plath K, Nagakawa S, Cerase A, Sanchez de Groot N, Tartaglia GG. RNA: The Unsuspected Conductor in the Orchestra of Macromolecular Crowding. Chem Rev 2024; 124:4734-4777. [PMID: 38579177 PMCID: PMC11046439 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00575] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
This comprehensive Review delves into the chemical principles governing RNA-mediated crowding events, commonly referred to as granules or biological condensates. We explore the pivotal role played by RNA sequence, structure, and chemical modifications in these processes, uncovering their correlation with crowding phenomena under physiological conditions. Additionally, we investigate instances where crowding deviates from its intended function, leading to pathological consequences. By deepening our understanding of the delicate balance that governs molecular crowding driven by RNA and its implications for cellular homeostasis, we aim to shed light on this intriguing area of research. Our exploration extends to the methodologies employed to decipher the composition and structural intricacies of RNA granules, offering a comprehensive overview of the techniques used to characterize them, including relevant computational approaches. Through two detailed examples highlighting the significance of noncoding RNAs, NEAT1 and XIST, in the formation of phase-separated assemblies and their influence on the cellular landscape, we emphasize their crucial role in cellular organization and function. By elucidating the chemical underpinnings of RNA-mediated molecular crowding, investigating the role of modifications, structures, and composition of RNA granules, and exploring both physiological and aberrant phase separation phenomena, this Review provides a multifaceted understanding of the intriguing world of RNA-mediated biological condensates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsa Zacco
- RNA
Systems Biology Lab, Center for Human Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Enrico Melen, 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
| | - Laura Broglia
- RNA
Systems Biology Lab, Center for Human Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Enrico Melen, 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
| | - Misuzu Kurihara
- RNA
Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Michele Monti
- RNA
Systems Biology Lab, Center for Human Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Enrico Melen, 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
| | - Stefano Gustincich
- Central
RNA Lab, Center for Human Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Enrico Melen, 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
| | - Annalisa Pastore
- UK
Dementia Research Institute at the Maurice Wohl Institute of King’s
College London, London SE5 9RT, U.K.
| | - Kathrin Plath
- Department
of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School
of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Shinichi Nagakawa
- RNA
Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Andrea Cerase
- Blizard
Institute,
Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, U.K.
- Unit
of Cell and developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Università di Pisa, 56123 Pisa, Italy
| | - Natalia Sanchez de Groot
- Unitat
de Bioquímica, Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia
Molecular, Universitat Autònoma de
Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gian Gaetano Tartaglia
- RNA
Systems Biology Lab, Center for Human Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Enrico Melen, 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
- Catalan
Institution for Research and Advanced Studies, ICREA, Passeig Lluís Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
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10
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Mirza Agha M, Tavili E, Dabirmanesh B. Functional amyloids. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2024; 206:389-434. [PMID: 38811086 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2024.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
While amyloid has traditionally been viewed as a harmful formation, emerging evidence suggests that amyloids may also play a functional role in cell biology, contributing to normal physiological processes that have been conserved throughout evolution. Functional amyloids have been discovered in several creatures, spanning from bacteria to mammals. These amyloids serve a multitude of purposes, including but not limited to, forming biofilms, melanin synthesis, storage, information transfer, and memory. The functional role of amyloids has been consistently validated by the discovery of more functional amyloids, indicating a conceptual convergence. The biology of amyloids is well-represented by non-pathogenic amyloids, given the numerous ones already identified and the ongoing rate of new discoveries. In this chapter, functional amyloids in microorganisms, animals, and plants are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansoureh Mirza Agha
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elaheh Tavili
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahareh Dabirmanesh
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
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11
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Sato K, Takayama KI, Inoue S. Stress granule-mediated RNA regulatory mechanism in Alzheimer's disease. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24 Suppl 1:7-14. [PMID: 37726158 DOI: 10.1111/ggi.14663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Living organisms experience a range of stresses. To cope effectively with these stresses, eukaryotic cells have evolved a sophisticated mechanism involving the formation of stress granules (SGs), which play a crucial role in protecting various types of RNA species under stress, such as mRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). SGs are non-membranous cytoplasmic ribonucleoprotein (RNP) granules, and the RNAs they contain are translationally stalled. Importantly, SGs have been thought to contribute to the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). SGs also contain multiple RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), several of which have been implicated in AD progression. SGs are transient structures that dissipate after stress relief. However, the chronic stresses associated with aging lead to the persistent formation of SGs and subsequently to solid-like pathological SGs, which could impair cellular RNA metabolism and also act as a nidus for the aberrant aggregation of AD-associated proteins. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive summary of the physical basis of SG-enriched RNAs and SG-resident RBPs. We then review the characteristics of AD-associated gene transcripts and their similarity to the SG-enriched RNAs. Furthermore, we summarize and discuss the functional implications of SGs in neuronal RNA metabolism and the aberrant aggregation of AD-associated proteins mediated by SG-resident RBPs in the context of AD pathogenesis. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 7-14.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaoru Sato
- Department of Systems Aging Science and Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
- Integrated Research Initiative for Living Well with Dementia, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichi Takayama
- Department of Systems Aging Science and Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Inoue
- Department of Systems Aging Science and Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
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12
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Bhatter N, Dmitriev SE, Ivanov P. Cell death or survival: Insights into the role of mRNA translational control. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2024; 154:138-154. [PMID: 37357122 PMCID: PMC10695129 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2023.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Cellular stress is an intrinsic part of cell physiology that underlines cell survival or death. The ability of mammalian cells to regulate global protein synthesis (aka translational control) represents a critical, yet underappreciated, layer of regulation during the stress response. Various cellular stress response pathways monitor conditions of cell growth and subsequently reshape the cellular translatome to optimize translational outputs. On the molecular level, such translational reprogramming involves an intricate network of interactions between translation machinery, RNA-binding proteins, mRNAs, and non-protein coding RNAs. In this review, we will discuss molecular mechanisms, signaling pathways, and targets of translational control that contribute to cellular adaptation to stress and to cell survival or death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nupur Bhatter
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation and Immunity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sergey E Dmitriev
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia; Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Pavel Ivanov
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation and Immunity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Initiative for RNA Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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13
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Fu Q, Zhang B, Chen X, Chu L. Liquid-liquid phase separation in Alzheimer's disease. J Mol Med (Berl) 2024; 102:167-181. [PMID: 38167731 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-023-02407-3] [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: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The pathological aggregation and misfolding of tau and amyloid-β play a key role in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the underlying pathological mechanisms remain unclear. Emerging evidences indicate that liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) has great impacts on regulating human health and diseases, especially neurodegenerative diseases. A series of studies have revealed the significance of LLPS in AD. In this review, we summarize the latest progress of LLPS in AD, focusing on the impact of metal ions, small-molecule inhibitors, and proteinaceous partners on tau LLPS and aggregation, as well as toxic oligomerization, the role of LLPS on amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregation, and the cross-interactions between amyloidogenic proteins in AD. Eventually, the fundamental methods and techniques used in LLPS study are introduced. We expect to present readers a deeper understanding of the relationship between LLPS and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinggang Fu
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Bixiang Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Liang Chu
- Hepatic Surgery Center and Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreatic-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China.
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14
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Bartosch AMW, Youth EHH, Hansen S, Wu Y, Buchanan HM, Kaufman ME, Xiao H, Koo SY, Ashok A, Sivakumar S, Soni RK, Dumitrescu LC, Lam TG, Ropri AS, Lee AJ, Klein HU, Vardarajan BN, Bennett DA, Young-Pearse TL, De Jager PL, Hohman TJ, Sproul AA, Teich AF. ZCCHC17 Modulates Neuronal RNA Splicing and Supports Cognitive Resilience in Alzheimer's Disease. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e2324222023. [PMID: 38050142 PMCID: PMC10860597 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2324-22.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
ZCCHC17 is a putative master regulator of synaptic gene dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease (AD), and ZCCHC17 protein declines early in AD brain tissue, before significant gliosis or neuronal loss. Here, we investigate the function of ZCCHC17 and its role in AD pathogenesis using data from human autopsy tissue (consisting of males and females) and female human cell lines. Co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) of ZCCHC17 followed by mass spectrometry analysis in human iPSC-derived neurons reveals that ZCCHC17's binding partners are enriched for RNA-splicing proteins. ZCCHC17 knockdown results in widespread RNA-splicing changes that significantly overlap with splicing changes found in AD brain tissue, with synaptic genes commonly affected. ZCCHC17 expression correlates with cognitive resilience in AD patients, and we uncover an APOE4-dependent negative correlation of ZCCHC17 expression with tangle burden. Furthermore, a majority of ZCCHC17 interactors also co-IP with known tau interactors, and we find a significant overlap between alternatively spliced genes in ZCCHC17 knockdown and tau overexpression neurons. These results demonstrate ZCCHC17's role in neuronal RNA processing and its interaction with pathology and cognitive resilience in AD, and suggest that the maintenance of ZCCHC17 function may be a therapeutic strategy for preserving cognitive function in the setting of AD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Marie W Bartosch
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | - Elliot H H Youth
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | - Shania Hansen
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt Memory & Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Yiyang Wu
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt Memory & Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Heather M Buchanan
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | - Maria E Kaufman
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | - Harrison Xiao
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | - So Yeon Koo
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | - Archana Ashok
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | - Sharanya Sivakumar
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | - Rajesh K Soni
- Proteomics and Macromolecular Crystallography Shared Resource, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, New York, New York 10032
| | - Logan C Dumitrescu
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt Memory & Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Tiffany G Lam
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | - Ali S Ropri
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | - Annie J Lee
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
- Department of Neurology, Center for Translational & Computational Neuroimmunology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York 10032
| | - Hans-Ulrich Klein
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
- Department of Neurology, Center for Translational & Computational Neuroimmunology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York 10032
| | - Badri N Vardarajan
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York 10032
| | - David A Bennett
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois 60612
| | - Tracy L Young-Pearse
- Department of Neurology, Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138
| | - Philip L De Jager
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
- Department of Neurology, Center for Translational & Computational Neuroimmunology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York 10032
| | - Timothy J Hohman
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt Memory & Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232
| | - Andrew A Sproul
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | - Andrew F Teich
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York 10032
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15
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Cruz E, Nisbet RM, Götz J. Break and accelerator-The mechanics of Tau (and amyloid) toxicity. Cytoskeleton (Hoboken) 2024; 81:24-29. [PMID: 37632370 DOI: 10.1002/cm.21781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Aggregates of the microtubule-associated protein Tau define more than a dozen primary tauopathies, and together with amyloid-β, the secondary tauopathy Alzheimer's disease (AD). Historically, Tau has been viewed as executor of amyloid-β toxicity, with the two molecules working together as "trigger and bullet." Given the two protein's opposing roles in protein translation, we wish to introduce another metaphor, borrowing from the mechanics of a car, with amyloid-β boosting Tau translation, whereas Tau puts a break on global translation. The underlying studies entail an alternative hypothesis regarding Tau's subcellular accumulation in AD, namely its de novo synthesis in the somatodendritic domain rather than the relocalization from the axon upon dissociation from microtubules. We contest that it may be worth (given Tau's 50th birthday) to revisit some entrenched dogmas about Tau's pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esteban Cruz
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rebecca M Nisbet
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jürgen Götz
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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16
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Takeiwa T, Ikeda K, Horie K, Inoue S. Role of RNA binding proteins of the Drosophila behavior and human splicing (DBHS) family in health and cancer. RNA Biol 2024; 21:1-17. [PMID: 38551131 PMCID: PMC10984136 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2024.2332855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) play crucial roles in the functions and homoeostasis of various tissues by regulating multiple events of RNA processing including RNA splicing, intracellular RNA transport, and mRNA translation. The Drosophila behavior and human splicing (DBHS) family proteins including PSF/SFPQ, NONO, and PSPC1 are ubiquitously expressed RBPs that contribute to the physiology of several tissues. In mammals, DBHS proteins have been reported to contribute to neurological diseases and play crucial roles in cancers, such as prostate, breast, and liver cancers, by regulating cancer-specific gene expression. Notably, in recent years, multiple small molecules targeting DBHS family proteins have been developed for application as cancer therapeutics. This review provides a recent overview of the functions of DBHS family in physiology and pathophysiology, and discusses the application of DBHS family proteins as promising diagnostic and therapeutic targets for cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshihiko Takeiwa
- Department of Systems Aging Science and Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Ikeda
- Division of Systems Medicine & Gene Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Hidaka, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kuniko Horie
- Division of Systems Medicine & Gene Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Hidaka, Saitama, Japan
| | - Satoshi Inoue
- Department of Systems Aging Science and Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Systems Medicine & Gene Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Hidaka, Saitama, Japan
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17
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Younas N, Saleem T, Younas A, Zerr I. Nuclear face of Tau: an inside player in neurodegeneration. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2023; 11:196. [PMID: 38087392 PMCID: PMC10714511 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-023-01702-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Tau (Tubulin associated unit) protein is a major hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and tauopathies. Tau is predominantly an axonal protein with a crucial role in the stabilization and dynamics of the microtubules. Since the discovery of Tau protein in 1975, research efforts were concentrated on the pathophysiological role of Tau protein in the context of the microtubules. Although, for more than three decades, different localizations of Tau protein have been discovered e.g., in the nuclear compartments. Discovery of the role of Tau protein in various cellular compartments especially in the nucleus opens up a new fold of complexity in tauopathies. Data from cellular models, animal models, and the human brain indicate that nuclear Tau is crucial for genome stability and to cope with cellular distress. Moreover, it's nature of nuclear translocation, its interactions with the nuclear DNA/RNA and proteins suggest it could play multiple roles in the nucleus. To comprehend Tau pathophysiology and efficient Tau-based therapies, there is an urgent need to understand whole repertoire of Tau species (nuclear and cytoplasmic) and their functional relevance. To complete the map of Tau repertoire, understanding of various species of Tau in the nucleus and cytoplasm, identification if specific transcripts of Tau, isoforms and post-translational modifications could foretell Tau's localizations and functions, and how they are modified in neurodegenerative diseases like AD, is urgently required. In this review, we explore the nuclear face of Tau protein, its nuclear localizations and functions and its linkage with Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neelam Younas
- University Medical Center Göttingen, National Reference Center for Surveillance of TSE, Department of Neurology, Robert-Koch strasse 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany.
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, 37075, Germany.
| | - Tayyaba Saleem
- University Medical Center Göttingen, National Reference Center for Surveillance of TSE, Department of Neurology, Robert-Koch strasse 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, 37075, Germany
| | - Abrar Younas
- University Medical Center Göttingen, National Reference Center for Surveillance of TSE, Department of Neurology, Robert-Koch strasse 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, 37075, Germany
| | - Inga Zerr
- University Medical Center Göttingen, National Reference Center for Surveillance of TSE, Department of Neurology, Robert-Koch strasse 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Göttingen, 37075, Germany
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18
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Younas N, Zafar S, Saleem T, Fernandez Flores LC, Younas A, Schmitz M, Zerr I. Differential interactome mapping of aggregation prone/prion-like proteins under stress: novel links to stress granule biology. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:221. [PMID: 38041189 PMCID: PMC10693047 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01164-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aberrant stress granules (SGs) are emerging as prime suspects in the nucleation of toxic protein aggregates. Understanding the molecular networks linked with aggregation-prone proteins (prion protein, synuclein, and tau) under stressful environments is crucial to understand pathophysiological cascades associated with these proteins. METHODS We characterized and validated oxidative stress-induced molecular network changes of endogenous aggregation-prone proteins (prion protein, synuclein, and tau) by employing immunoprecipitation coupled with mass spectrometry analysis under basal and oxidative stress conditions. We used two different cell models (SH-SY5Y: human neuroblastoma and HeLa cell line) to induce oxidative stress using a well-known inducer (sodium arsenite) of oxidative stress. RESULTS Overall, we identified 597 proteins as potential interaction partners. Our comparative interactome mapping provides comprehensive network reorganizations of three aggregation-prone hallmark proteins, establish novel interacting partners and their dysregulation, and validates that prion protein and synuclein localize in cytoplasmic SGs. Localization of prion protein and synuclein in TIA1-positive SGs provides an important link between SG pathobiology and aggregation-prone proteins. In addition, dysregulation (downregulation) of prion protein and exportin-5 protein, and translocation of exportin-5 into the nucleus under oxidative stress shed light on nucleocytoplasmic transport defects during the stress response. CONCLUSIONS The current study contributes to our understanding of stress-mediated network rearrangements and posttranslational modifications of prion/prion-like proteins. Localization of prion protein and synuclein in the cytoplasmic SGs provides an important link between stress granule pathobiology and aggregation-prone proteins. In addition, our findings demonstrate nucleocytoplasmic transport defects after oxidative stress via dysregulation and nuclear accumulation of exportin-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neelam Younas
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Georg-August-Universität, Robert-Koch-Strasse 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany.
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Saima Zafar
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Georg-August-Universität, Robert-Koch-Strasse 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- Biomedical Engineering and Sciences Department, School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering (SMME), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Tayyaba Saleem
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Georg-August-Universität, Robert-Koch-Strasse 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Leticia Camila Fernandez Flores
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Georg-August-Universität, Robert-Koch-Strasse 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Abrar Younas
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Georg-August-Universität, Robert-Koch-Strasse 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Matthias Schmitz
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Georg-August-Universität, Robert-Koch-Strasse 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Inga Zerr
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Georg-August-Universität, Robert-Koch-Strasse 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Robert-Koch-Straße 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
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19
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Sołtys K, Tarczewska A, Bystranowska D. Modulation of biomolecular phase behavior by metal ions. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2023; 1870:119567. [PMID: 37582439 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2023.119567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) appears to be a newly appreciated aspect of the cellular organization of biomolecules that leads to the formation of membraneless organelles (MLOs). MLOs generate distinct microenvironments where particular biomolecules are highly concentrated compared to those in the surrounding environment. Their thermodynamically driven formation is reversible, and their liquid nature allows them to fuse with each other. Dysfunctional biomolecular condensation is associated with human diseases. Pathological states of MLOs may originate from the mutation of proteins or may be induced by other factors. In most aberrant MLOs, transient interactions are replaced by stronger and more rigid interactions, preventing their dissolution, and causing their uncontrolled growth and dysfunction. For these reasons, there is great interest in identifying factors that modulate LLPS. In this review, we discuss an enigmatic and mostly unexplored aspect of this process, namely, the regulatory effects of metal ions on the phase behavior of biomolecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Sołtys
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Aneta Tarczewska
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Dominika Bystranowska
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wrocław, Poland
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20
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Bhagat R, Minaya MA, Renganathan A, Mehra M, Marsh J, Martinez R, Eteleeb AM, Nana AL, Spina S, Seeley WW, Grinberg LT, Karch CM. Long non-coding RNA SNHG8 drives stress granule formation in tauopathies. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:4889-4901. [PMID: 37730840 PMCID: PMC10914599 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02237-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Tauopathies are a heterogenous group of neurodegenerative disorders characterized by tau aggregation in the brain. In a subset of tauopathies, rare mutations in the MAPT gene, which encodes the tau protein, are sufficient to cause disease; however, the events downstream of MAPT mutations are poorly understood. Here, we investigate the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), transcripts >200 nucleotides with low/no coding potential that regulate transcription and translation, and their role in tauopathy. Using stem cell derived neurons from patients carrying a MAPT p.P301L, IVS10 + 16, or p.R406W mutation and CRISPR-corrected isogenic controls, we identified transcriptomic changes that occur as a function of the MAPT mutant allele. We identified 15 lncRNAs that were commonly differentially expressed across the three MAPT mutations. The commonly differentially expressed lncRNAs interact with RNA-binding proteins that regulate stress granule formation. Among these lncRNAs, SNHG8 was significantly reduced in a mouse model of tauopathy and in FTLD-tau, progressive supranuclear palsy, and Alzheimer's disease brains. We show that SNHG8 interacts with tau and stress granule-associated RNA-binding protein TIA1. Overexpression of mutant tau in vitro is sufficient to reduce SNHG8 expression and induce stress granule formation. Rescuing SNHG8 expression leads to reduced stress granule formation and reduced TIA1 levels in immortalized cells and in MAPT mutant neurons, suggesting that dysregulation of this non-coding RNA is a causal factor driving stress granule formation via TIA1 in tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reshma Bhagat
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Miguel A Minaya
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Arun Renganathan
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Muneshwar Mehra
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jacob Marsh
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Rita Martinez
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Abdallah M Eteleeb
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Alissa L Nana
- Department of Neurology, UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Salvatore Spina
- Department of Neurology, UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - William W Seeley
- Department of Neurology, UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lea T Grinberg
- Department of Neurology, UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Celeste M Karch
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA.
- Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA.
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21
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Zuniga G, Frost B. Selective neuronal vulnerability to deficits in RNA processing. Prog Neurobiol 2023; 229:102500. [PMID: 37454791 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2023.102500] [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: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates that errors in RNA processing can causally drive neurodegeneration. Given that RNA produced from expressed genes of all cell types undergoes processing (splicing, polyadenylation, 5' capping, etc.), the particular vulnerability of neurons to deficits in RNA processing calls for careful consideration. The activity-dependent transcriptome remodeling associated with synaptic plasticity in neurons requires rapid, multilevel post-transcriptional RNA processing events that provide additional opportunities for dysregulation and consequent introduction or persistence of errors in RNA transcripts. Here we review the accumulating evidence that neurons have an enhanced propensity for errors in RNA processing alongside grossly insufficient defenses to clear misprocessed RNA compared to other cell types. Additionally, we explore how tau, a microtubule-associated protein implicated in Alzheimer's disease and related tauopathies, contributes to deficits in RNA processing and clearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Zuniga
- Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA; Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA; Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Bess Frost
- Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA; Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA; Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
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22
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Farhadieh ME, Ghaedi K. Analyzing alternative splicing in Alzheimer's disease postmortem brain: a cell-level perspective. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1237874. [PMID: 37799732 PMCID: PMC10548223 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1237874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease with no effective cure that attacks the brain's cells resulting in memory loss and changes in behavior and language skills. Alternative splicing is a highly regulated process influenced by specific cell types and has been implicated in age-related disorders such as neurodegenerative diseases. A comprehensive detection of alternative splicing events (ASEs) at the cellular level in postmortem brain tissue can provide valuable insights into AD pathology. Here, we provided cell-level ASEs in postmortem brain tissue by employing bioinformatics pipelines on a bulk RNA sequencing study sorted by cell types and two single-cell RNA sequencing studies from the prefrontal cortex. This comprehensive analysis revealed previously overlooked splicing and expression changes in AD patient brains. Among the observed alterations were changed in the splicing and expression of transcripts associated with chaperones, including CLU in astrocytes and excitatory neurons, PTGDS in astrocytes and endothelial cells, and HSP90AA1 in microglia and tauopathy-afflicted neurons, which were associated with differential expression of the splicing factor DDX5. In addition, novel, unknown transcripts were altered, and structural changes were observed in lncRNAs such as MEG3 in neurons. This work provides a novel strategy to identify the notable ASEs at the cell level in neurodegeneration, which revealed cell type-specific splicing changes in AD. This finding may contribute to interpreting associations between splicing and neurodegenerative disease outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kamran Ghaedi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
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23
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Ghosh A, Vande Velde C. A new way to mitigate pathological Tau? Neuron 2023; 111:2617-2619. [PMID: 37678165 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
In this issue of Neuron, Wang et al.1 show that the RNA-binding protein G3BP2 interacts with Tau in human neurons and in brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD), suggesting a new role for G3BP2 with implications for therapeutic sequestration of Tau in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmita Ghosh
- Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada; Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada
| | - Christine Vande Velde
- Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada; Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada.
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24
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Wang C, Terrigno M, Li J, Distler T, Pandya NJ, Ebeling M, Tyanova S, Hoozemans JJM, Dijkstra AA, Fuchs L, Xiang S, Bonni A, Grüninger F, Jagasia R. Increased G3BP2-Tau interaction in tauopathies is a natural defense against Tau aggregation. Neuron 2023; 111:2660-2674.e9. [PMID: 37385246 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Many RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), particularly those associated with RNA granules, promote pathological protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we demonstrate that G3BP2, a core component of stress granules, directly interacts with Tau and inhibits Tau aggregation. In the human brain, the interaction of G3BP2 and Tau is dramatically increased in multiple tauopathies, and it is independent of neurofibrillary tangle (NFT) formation in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Surprisingly, Tau pathology is significantly elevated upon loss of G3BP2 in human neurons and brain organoids. Moreover, we found that G3BP2 masks the microtubule-binding region (MTBR) of Tau, thereby inhibiting Tau aggregation. Our study defines a novel role for RBPs as a line of defense against Tau aggregation in tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congwei Wang
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Marco Terrigno
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Juan Li
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, 230026 Anhui, China
| | - Tania Distler
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nikhil J Pandya
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Ebeling
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stefka Tyanova
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jeroen J M Hoozemans
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anke A Dijkstra
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Luisa Fuchs
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Shengqi Xiang
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, 230026 Anhui, China
| | - Azad Bonni
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Fiona Grüninger
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ravi Jagasia
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland.
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25
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Naskar A, Nayak A, Salaikumaran MR, Vishal SS, Gopal PP. Phase separation and pathologic transitions of RNP condensates in neurons: implications for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, frontotemporal dementia and other neurodegenerative disorders. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1242925. [PMID: 37720552 PMCID: PMC10502346 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1242925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation results in the formation of dynamic biomolecular condensates, also known as membrane-less organelles, that allow for the assembly of functional compartments and higher order structures within cells. Multivalent, reversible interactions between RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), including FUS, TDP-43, and hnRNPA1, and/or RNA (e.g., RBP-RBP, RBP-RNA, RNA-RNA), result in the formation of ribonucleoprotein (RNP) condensates, which are critical for RNA processing, mRNA transport, stability, stress granule assembly, and translation. Stress granules, neuronal transport granules, and processing bodies are examples of cytoplasmic RNP condensates, while the nucleolus and Cajal bodies are representative nuclear RNP condensates. In neurons, RNP condensates promote long-range mRNA transport and local translation in the dendrites and axon, and are essential for spatiotemporal regulation of gene expression, axonal integrity and synaptic function. Mutations of RBPs and/or pathologic mislocalization and aggregation of RBPs are hallmarks of several neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and Alzheimer's disease. ALS/FTD-linked mutations of RBPs alter the strength and reversibility of multivalent interactions with other RBPs and RNAs, resulting in aberrant phase transitions. These aberrant RNP condensates have detrimental functional consequences on mRNA stability, localization, and translation, and ultimately lead to compromised axonal integrity and synaptic function in disease. Pathogenic protein aggregation is dependent on various factors, and aberrant dynamically arrested RNP condensates may serve as an initial nucleation step for pathologic aggregate formation. Recent studies have focused on identifying mechanisms by which neurons resolve phase transitioned condensates to prevent the formation of pathogenic inclusions/aggregates. The present review focuses on the phase separation of neurodegenerative disease-linked RBPs, physiological functions of RNP condensates, and the pathologic role of aberrant phase transitions in neurodegenerative disease, particularly ALS/FTD. We also examine cellular mechanisms that contribute to the resolution of aberrant condensates in neurons, and potential therapeutic approaches to resolve aberrantly phase transitioned condensates at a molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Naskar
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Asima Nayak
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | | | - Sonali S. Vishal
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Pallavi P. Gopal
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
- Program in Cellular Neuroscience, Neurodegeneration, and Repair, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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26
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Jeremic D, Jiménez-Díaz L, Navarro-López JD. Targeting epigenetics: A novel promise for Alzheimer's disease treatment. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 90:102003. [PMID: 37422087 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
So far, the search for a cure for Alzheimer Disease (AD) has been unsuccessful. The only approved drugs attenuate some symptoms, but do not halt the progress of this disease, which affects 50 million people worldwide and will increase its incidence in the coming decades. Such scenario demands new therapeutic approaches to fight against this devastating dementia. In recent years, multi-omics research and the analysis of differential epigenetic marks in AD subjects have contributed to our understanding of AD; however, the impact of epigenetic research is yet to be seen. This review integrates the most recent data on pathological processes and epigenetic changes relevant for aging and AD, as well as current therapies targeting epigenetic machinery in clinical trials. Evidence shows that epigenetic modifications play a key role in gene expression, which could provide multi-target preventative and therapeutic approaches in AD. Both novel and repurposed drugs are employed in AD clinical trials due to their epigenetic effects, as well as increasing number of natural compounds. Given the reversible nature of epigenetic modifications and the complexity of gene-environment interactions, the combination of epigenetic-based therapies with environmental strategies and drugs with multiple targets might be needed to properly help AD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danko Jeremic
- University of Castilla-La Mancha, NeuroPhysiology & Behavior Lab, Biomedical Research Center (CRIB), School of Medicine of Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Lydia Jiménez-Díaz
- University of Castilla-La Mancha, NeuroPhysiology & Behavior Lab, Biomedical Research Center (CRIB), School of Medicine of Ciudad Real, Spain.
| | - Juan D Navarro-López
- University of Castilla-La Mancha, NeuroPhysiology & Behavior Lab, Biomedical Research Center (CRIB), School of Medicine of Ciudad Real, Spain.
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27
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Viola G, Floriani F, Barracchia CG, Munari F, D'Onofrio M, Assfalg M. Ultrasmall Gold Nanoparticles as Clients of Biomolecular Condensates. Chemistry 2023; 29:e202301274. [PMID: 37293933 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202301274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of biopolymers to form condensates is a widespread phenomenon in living cells. Agents that target or alter condensation can help uncover elusive physiological and pathological mechanisms. Owing to their unique material properties and modes of interaction with biomolecules, nanoparticles represent attractive condensate-targeting agents. Our work focused on elucidating the interaction between ultrasmall gold nanoparticles (usGNPs) and diverse types of condensates of tau, a representative phase-separating protein associated with neurodegenerative disorders. usGNPs attract considerable interest in the biomedical community due to unique features, including emergent optical properties and good cell penetration. We explored the interaction of usGNPs with reconstituted self-condensates of tau, two-component tau/polyanion and three-component tau/RNA/alpha-synuclein coacervates. The usGNPs were found to concentrate into condensed liquid droplets, consistent with the formation of dynamic client (nanoparticle) - scaffold (tau) interactions, and were observable thanks to their intrinsic luminescence. Furthermore, usGNPs were capable to promote LLPS of a protein domain which is unable to phase separate on its own. Our study demonstrates the ability of usGNPs to interact with and illuminate protein condensates. We anticipate that nanoparticles will have broad applicability as nanotracers to interrogate phase separation, and as nanoactuators controlling the formation and dissolution of condensates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Viola
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Fulvio Floriani
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Munari
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Michael Assfalg
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, 37134, Verona, Italy
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28
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McMillan PJ, Benbow SJ, Uhrich R, Saxton A, Baum M, Strovas T, Wheeler JM, Baker J, Liachko NF, Keene CD, Latimer CS, Kraemer BC. Tau-RNA complexes inhibit microtubule polymerization and drive disease-relevant conformation change. Brain 2023; 146:3206-3220. [PMID: 36732296 PMCID: PMC10393409 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awad032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease and related disorders feature neurofibrillary tangles and other neuropathological lesions composed of detergent-insoluble tau protein. In recent structural biology studies of tau proteinopathy, aggregated tau forms a distinct set of conformational variants specific to the different types of tauopathy disorders. However, the constituents driving the formation of distinct pathological tau conformations on pathway to tau-mediated neurodegeneration remain unknown. Previous work demonstrated RNA can serve as a driver of tau aggregation, and RNA associates with tau containing lesions, but tools for evaluating tau/RNA interactions remain limited. Here, we employed molecular interaction studies to measure the impact of tau/RNA binding on tau microtubule binding and aggregation. To investigate the importance of tau/RNA complexes (TRCs) in neurodegenerative disease, we raised a monoclonal antibody (TRC35) against aggregated tau/RNA complexes. We showed that native tau binds RNA with high affinity but low specificity, and tau binding to RNA competes with tau-mediated microtubule assembly functions. Tau/RNA interaction in vitro promotes the formation of higher molecular weight tau/RNA complexes, which represent an oligomeric tau species. Coexpression of tau and poly(A)45 RNA transgenes in Caenorhabditis elegans exacerbates tau-related phenotypes including neuronal dysfunction and pathological tau accumulation. TRC35 exhibits specificity for Alzheimer's disease-derived detergent-insoluble tau relative to soluble recombinant tau. Immunostaining with TRC35 labels a wide variety of pathological tau lesions in animal models of tauopathy, which are reduced in mice lacking the RNA binding protein MSUT2. TRC-positive lesions are evident in many human tauopathies including Alzheimer's disease, progressive supranuclear palsy, corticobasal degeneration and Pick's disease. We also identified ocular pharyngeal muscular dystrophy as a novel tauopathy disorder, where loss of function in the poly(A) RNA binding protein (PABPN1) causes accumulation of pathological tau in tissue from post-mortem human brain. Tau/RNA binding drives tau conformational change and aggregation inhibiting tau-mediated microtubule assembly. Our findings implicate cellular tau/RNA interactions as modulators of both normal tau function and pathological tau toxicity in tauopathy disorders and suggest feasibility for novel therapeutic approaches targeting TRCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela J McMillan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108, USA
| | - Sarah J Benbow
- Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108, USA
- Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Rikki Uhrich
- Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108, USA
| | - Aleen Saxton
- Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108, USA
| | - Misa Baum
- Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108, USA
| | - Timothy Strovas
- Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108, USA
| | - Jeanna M Wheeler
- Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108, USA
| | - Jeremy Baker
- Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108, USA
- Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Nicole F Liachko
- Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108, USA
- Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - C Dirk Keene
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Caitlin S Latimer
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Brian C Kraemer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108, USA
- Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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29
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Chen J, Li Y, Chen M, Liu X, Chen J, Li X, Wang C, Wan G, Tian J. Pantethine Ameliorates Recognition Impairment in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease by Modulating Cholesterol Content and Intestinal Flora Species. Mol Nutr Food Res 2023; 67:e2200799. [PMID: 37194410 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.202200799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
SCOPE As a natural dietary low-molecular-weight thiol, pantethine helps maintain brain homeostasis and function in Alzheimer's disease (AD) mice. The current study aims to investigate the protective effects and underlying mechanisms of pantethine on the mitigation of cognitive deficits and pathology in a triple transgenic AD mouse model. METHODS AND RESULTS Compared to control mice, oral administration of pantethine improve spatial learning and memory ability, relieve anxiety, and reduce the production of amyloid-β (Aβ), neuronal damage, and inflammation in 3×Tg-AD mice. Pantethine reduces body weight, body fat, and the production of cholesterol in 3×Tg-AD mice by inhibiting sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP2) signal pathway and apolipoprotein E (APOE) expression; lipid rafts in the brain, which are necessary for the processing of the Aβ precursor protein (APP), are also decreased. In addition, pantethine regulates the composition, distribution, and abundance of characteristic flora in the intestine; these floras are considered protective and anti-inflammatory in the gastrointestinal tract, suggesting a possible improvement in the gut flora of 3×Tg-AD mice. CONCLUSION This study highlights the potential therapeutic effect of pantethine in AD by reducing cholesterol and lipid raft formation and regulating intestinal flora, suggesting a new option for the development of clinical drugs for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfeng Chen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology and Ecology, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Yongsui Li
- Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Minyu Chen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology and Ecology, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Xinwei Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology and Ecology, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Jinghong Chen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology and Ecology, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
- Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Xinlu Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology and Ecology, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Chemical Analysis & Physical Testing Institute, Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Guohui Wan
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, National Engineering Research Center for New Drug and Druggability (cultivation), Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510000, China
| | - Jing Tian
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology and Ecology, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
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30
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Hurtle BT, Xie L, Donnelly CJ. Disrupting pathologic phase transitions in neurodegeneration. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e168549. [PMID: 37395272 DOI: 10.1172/jci168549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Solid-like protein deposits found in aged and diseased human brains have revealed a relationship between insoluble protein accumulations and the resulting deficits in neurologic function. Clinically diverse neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, frontotemporal lobar degeneration, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, exhibit unique and disease-specific biochemical protein signatures and abnormal protein depositions that often correlate with disease pathogenesis. Recent evidence indicates that many pathologic proteins assemble into liquid-like protein phases through the highly coordinated process of liquid-liquid phase separation. Over the last decade, biomolecular phase transitions have emerged as a fundamental mechanism of cellular organization. Liquid-like condensates organize functionally related biomolecules within the cell, and many neuropathology-associated proteins reside within these dynamic structures. Thus, examining biomolecular phase transitions enhances our understanding of the molecular mechanisms mediating toxicity across diverse neurodegenerative diseases. This Review explores the known mechanisms contributing to aberrant protein phase transitions in neurodegenerative diseases, focusing on tau and TDP-43 proteinopathies and outlining potential therapeutic strategies to regulate these pathologic events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan T Hurtle
- Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh Graduate Program
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Pittsburgh; and
- LiveLikeLou Center for ALS Research at the University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Longxin Xie
- LiveLikeLou Center for ALS Research at the University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Christopher J Donnelly
- Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh Graduate Program
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Pittsburgh; and
- LiveLikeLou Center for ALS Research at the University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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31
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Boyko S, Surewicz WK. Domain-specific modulatory effects of phosphomimetic substitutions on liquid-liquid phase separation of tau protein. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:104722. [PMID: 37075845 PMCID: PMC10199205 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Aggregation of tau is one of the major pathogenic events in Alzheimer's disease and several other neurodegenerative disorders. Recent reports demonstrated that tau can condense into liquid droplets that undergo time-dependent transition to a solid-like state, suggesting that liquid condensates may be on the pathway to pathological aggregation of tau. While hyperphosphorylation is a key feature of tau isolated from brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease and other tauopathies, the mechanistic role of phosphorylation in tau liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) remains largely unexplored. In an attempt to bridge this gap, here we performed systematic studies by introducing phosphomimetic substitutions of Ser/Thr residues with negatively charged Asp/Glu residues in different regions of the protein. Our data indicate that the phosphorylation patterns that increase the polarization of charge distribution in full-length tau (tau441) promote protein LLPS, whereas those that decrease charge polarization have an opposite effect. Overall, this study further supports the notion that tau LLPS is driven by attractive intermolecular electrostatic interactions between the oppositely charged domains. We also show that the phosphomimetic tau variants with low intrinsic propensity for LLPS can be efficiently recruited to droplets formed by the variants with high LLPS propensity. Furthermore, the present data demonstrate that phosphomimetic substitutions have a major effect on time-dependent material properties of tau droplets, generally slowing down their aging. The latter effect is most dramatic for the tau variant with substitutions within the repeat domain, which correlates with the decreased fibrillation rate of this variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomiia Boyko
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Witold K Surewicz
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
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32
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Li P, Chen J, Wang X, Su Z, Gao M, Huang Y. Liquid - liquid phase separation of tau: Driving forces, regulation, and biological implications. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 183:106167. [PMID: 37230179 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106167] [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: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The past 15 years have witnessed an explosion in the studies of biomolecular condensates that are implicated in numerous biological processes and play vital roles in human health and diseases. Recent findings demonstrate that the microtubule-associated protein tau forms liquid condensates through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) in in vitro experiments using purified recombinant proteins and cell-based experiments. Although in vivo studies are lacking, liquid condensates have emerged as an important assembly state of physiological and pathological tau and LLPS can regulate the function of microtubules, mediate stress granule formation, and accelerate tau amyloid aggregation. In this review, we summarize recent advances in tau LLPS, aiming to unveiling the delicate interactions driving tau LLPS. We further discuss the association of tau LLPS with physiology and disease in the context of the sophisticated regulation of tau LLPS. Deciphering the mechanisms underlying tau LLPS and the liquid-to-solid transition enables rational design of molecules that inhibit or delay the formation of tau solid species, thus providing novel targeted therapeutic strategies for tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Li
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
| | - Jingxin Chen
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
| | - Zhengding Su
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China
| | - Meng Gao
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China.
| | - Yongqi Huang
- Cooperative Innovation Center of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education & Hubei Province), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Microbiology, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation (Ministry of Education), Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China.
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Sato K, Takayama KI, Inoue S. Stress granules sequester Alzheimer's disease-associated gene transcripts and regulate disease-related neuronal proteostasis. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:204737. [PMID: 37219408 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204737] [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: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Environmental and physiological stresses can accelerate Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. Under stress, a cytoplasmic membraneless structure termed a stress granule (SG) is formed and is associated with various neurodegenerative disorders, including AD. SGs contain translationally arrested mRNAs, suggesting that impaired RNA metabolism in neurons causes AD progression; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we identified numerous mRNAs and long non-coding RNAs that are directly targeted by the SG core proteins G3BP1 and G3BP2. They redundantly target RNAs before and after stress conditions. We further identified RNAs within SGs, wherein AD-associated gene transcripts accumulated, suggesting that SGs can directly regulate AD development. Furthermore, gene-network analysis revealed a possible link between the sequestration of RNAs by SGs and the impairment of protein neurohomeostasis in AD brains. Together, our study provides a comprehensive RNA regulatory mechanism involving SGs, which could be targeted therapeutically to slow AD progression mediated by SGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaoru Sato
- Systems Aging Science and Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology (TMIG), Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan
- Integrated Research Initiative for Living Well with Dementia (IRIDE), TMIG, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichi Takayama
- Systems Aging Science and Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology (TMIG), Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan
| | - Satoshi Inoue
- Systems Aging Science and Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology (TMIG), Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan
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Lin WJ, Shi WP, Ge WY, Chen LL, Guo WH, Shang P, Yin DC. Magnetic Fields Reduce Apoptosis by Suppressing Phase Separation of Tau-441. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2023; 6:0146. [PMID: 37228640 PMCID: PMC10204748 DOI: 10.34133/research.0146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The biological effects of magnetic fields (MFs) have been a controversial issue. Fortunately, in recent years, there has been increasing evidence that MFs do affect biological systems. However, the physical mechanism remains unclear. Here, we show that MFs (16 T) reduce apoptosis in cell lines by inhibiting liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of Tau-441, suggesting that the MF effect on LLPS may be one of the mechanisms for understanding the "mysterious" magnetobiological effects. The LLPS of Tau-441 occurred in the cytoplasm after induction with arsenite. The phase-separated droplets of Tau-441 recruited hexokinase (HK), resulting in a decrease in the amount of free HK in the cytoplasm. In cells, HK and Bax compete to bind to the voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC I) on the mitochondrial membrane. A decrease in the number of free HK molecules increased the chance of Bax binding to VDAC I, leading to increased Bax-mediated apoptosis. In the presence of a static MF, LLPS was marked inhibited and HK recruitment was reduced, resulting in an increased probability of HK binding to VDAC I and a decreased probability of Bax binding to VDAC I, thus reducing Bax-mediated apoptosis. Our findings revealed a new physical mechanism for understanding magnetobiological effects from the perspective of LLPS. In addition, these results show the potential applications of physical environments, such as MFs in this study, in the treatment of LLPS-related diseases.
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Ma Y, Farny NG. Connecting the Dots: Neuronal Senescence, Stress Granules, and Neurodegeneration. Gene 2023; 871:147437. [PMID: 37084987 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147437] [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: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
Cellular senescence increases with aging. While senescence is associated with an exit of the cell cycle, there is ample evidence that post-mitotic cells including neurons can undergo senescence as the brain ages, and that senescence likely contributes significantly to the progression of neurodegenerative diseases (ND) such as Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Stress granules (SGs) are stress-induced cytoplasmic biomolecular condensates of RNA and proteins, which have been linked to the development of AD and ALS. The SG seeding hypothesis of NDs proposes that chronic stress in aging neurons results in static SGs that progress into pathological aggregates Alterations in SG dynamics have also been linked to senescence, though studies that link SGs and senescence in the context of NDs and the aging brain have not yet been performed. In this Review, we summarize the literature on senescence, and explore the contribution of senescence to the aging brain. We describe senescence phenotypes in aging neurons and glia, and their links to neuroinflammation and the development of AD and ALS. We further examine the relationships of SGs to senescence and to ND. We propose a new hypothesis that neuronal senescence may contribute to the mechanism of SG seeding in ND by altering SG dynamics in aged cells, thereby providing additional aggregation opportunities within aged neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhe Ma
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Natalie G Farny
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA.
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Tassinari V, La Rosa P, Guida E, Colopi A, Caratelli S, De Paolis F, Gallo A, Cenciarelli C, Sconocchia G, Dolci S, Cesarini V. Contribution of A-to-I RNA editing, M6A RNA Methylation, and Alternative Splicing to physiological brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Mech Ageing Dev 2023; 212:111807. [PMID: 37023929 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2023.111807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Aging is a physiological and progressive phenomenon in all organisms' life cycle, characterized by the accumulation of degenerative processes triggered by several alterations within molecular pathways. These changes compromise cell fate, resulting in the loss of functions in tissues throughout the body, including the brain. Physiological brain aging has been linked to structural and functional alterations, as well as to an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Post-transcriptional RNA modifications modulate mRNA coding properties, stability, translatability, expanding the coding capacity of the genome, and are involved in all cellular processes. Among mRNA post-transcriptional modifications, the A-to-I RNA editing, m6A RNA Methylation and Alternative Splicing play a critical role in all the phases of a neuronal cell life cycle and alterations in their mechanisms of action significantly contribute to aging and neurodegeneration. Here we review our current understanding of the contribution of A-to-I RNA editing, m6A RNA Methylation, and Alternative Splicing to physiological brain aging process and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Tassinari
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
| | - Piergiorgio La Rosa
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; European Center for Brain Research, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenia Guida
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Ambra Colopi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Caratelli
- Department of Biomedicine, Institute of Translational Pharmacology (IFT), National Research Council (CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca De Paolis
- Department of Biomedicine, Institute of Translational Pharmacology (IFT), National Research Council (CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Gallo
- RNA Editing Lab., Oncohaematology Department, Cellular and Gene Therapy Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Cenciarelli
- Department of Biomedicine, Institute of Translational Pharmacology (IFT), National Research Council (CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Sconocchia
- Department of Biomedicine, Institute of Translational Pharmacology (IFT), National Research Council (CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Susanna Dolci
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeriana Cesarini
- Department of Biomedicine, Institute of Translational Pharmacology (IFT), National Research Council (CNR), Rome, Italy.
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Tetlow AM, Jackman BM, Alhadidy MM, Muskus P, Morgan DG, Gordon MN. Neural atrophy produced by AAV tau injections into hippocampus and anterior cortex of middle-aged mice. Neurobiol Aging 2023; 124:39-50. [PMID: 36739619 PMCID: PMC9957956 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2022.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Animal models of tauopathy help in understanding the role of mutations in tau pathobiology. Here, we used adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors to administer three tau genetic variants (tauwild-type, tauP301L, and tauR406W) intracranially into 12-month-old C57BL/6Nia mice and collected tissue at 16 months. Vectors designed to express green fluorescent protein controlled for surgical procedures and exogenous protein expression by AAV. The tau genetic variants produced considerably different phenotypes. Tauwild-type and tauP301L caused memory impairments. The tauP301L caused increased amounts of aggregated tau, measured both neurochemically and histologically. Tauwild-type produced elevated levels of soluble tau and phosphorylated tau by ELISA and increased staining for phosphorylated forms of tau histologically. However, only the tauwild-type caused localized atrophy of brain tissue at the sites near the injection. The tauR406W had low protein expression and produced no atrophy or memory impairments. This supports the potential use of AAV expressing tauwild-type in aged mice to examine events leading to neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber M Tetlow
- Dept of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA; School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Brianna M Jackman
- Dept of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Mohammed M Alhadidy
- Dept of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Patricia Muskus
- Dept of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - David G Morgan
- Dept of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA.
| | - Marcia N Gordon
- Dept of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
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Nam J, Gwon Y. Neuronal biomolecular condensates and their implications in neurodegenerative diseases. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1145420. [PMID: 37065458 PMCID: PMC10102667 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1145420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates are subcellular organizations where functionally related proteins and nucleic acids are assembled through liquid-liquid phase separation, allowing them to develop on a larger scale without a membrane. However, biomolecular condensates are highly vulnerable to disruptions from genetic risks and various factors inside and outside the cell and are strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative diseases. In addition to the classical view of the nucleation-polymerization process that triggers the protein aggregation from the misfolded seed, the pathologic transition of biomolecular condensates can also promote the aggregation of proteins found in the deposits of neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, it has been suggested that several protein or protein-RNA complexes located in the synapse and along the neuronal process are neuron-specific condensates displaying liquid-like properties. As their compositional and functional modifications play a crucial role in the context of neurodegeneration, further research is needed to fully understand the role of neuronal biomolecular condensates. In this article, we will discuss recent findings that explore the pivotal role of biomolecular condensates in the development of neuronal defects and neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Youngdae Gwon
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
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Bartosch AMW, Youth EHH, Hansen S, Kaufman ME, Xiao H, Koo SY, Ashok A, Sivakumar S, Soni RK, Dumitrescu LC, Lam TG, Ropri AS, Lee AJ, Klein HU, Vardarajan BN, Bennett DA, Young-Pearse TL, De Jager PL, Hohman TJ, Sproul AA, Teich AF. ZCCHC17 modulates neuronal RNA splicing and supports cognitive resilience in Alzheimer's disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.21.533654. [PMID: 36993746 PMCID: PMC10055234 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.21.533654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
ZCCHC17 is a putative master regulator of synaptic gene dysfunction in Alzheimer's Disease (AD), and ZCCHC17 protein declines early in AD brain tissue, before significant gliosis or neuronal loss. Here, we investigate the function of ZCCHC17 and its role in AD pathogenesis. Co-immunoprecipitation of ZCCHC17 followed by mass spectrometry analysis in human iPSC-derived neurons reveals that ZCCHC17's binding partners are enriched for RNA splicing proteins. ZCCHC17 knockdown results in widespread RNA splicing changes that significantly overlap with splicing changes found in AD brain tissue, with synaptic genes commonly affected. ZCCHC17 expression correlates with cognitive resilience in AD patients, and we uncover an APOE4 dependent negative correlation of ZCCHC17 expression with tangle burden. Furthermore, a majority of ZCCHC17 interactors also co-IP with known tau interactors, and we find significant overlap between alternatively spliced genes in ZCCHC17 knockdown and tau overexpression neurons. These results demonstrate ZCCHC17's role in neuronal RNA processing and its interaction with pathology and cognitive resilience in AD, and suggest that maintenance of ZCCHC17 function may be a therapeutic strategy for preserving cognitive function in the setting of AD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Marie W. Bartosch
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
| | - Elliot H. H. Youth
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
| | - Shania Hansen
- Vanderbilt Memory & Alzheimer’s Center, Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232
| | - Maria E. Kaufman
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
| | - Harrison Xiao
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
| | - So Yeon Koo
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
| | - Archana Ashok
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
| | - Sharanya Sivakumar
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
| | - Rajesh K. Soni
- Proteomics and Macromolecular Crystallography Shared Resource, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, New York, NY 10032
| | - Logan C. Dumitrescu
- Vanderbilt Memory & Alzheimer’s Center, Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232
| | - Tiffany G. Lam
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
| | - Ali S. Ropri
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
| | - Annie J. Lee
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
- Center for Translational & Computational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY 10032
| | - Hans-Ulrich Klein
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
- Center for Translational & Computational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY 10032
| | - Badri N. Vardarajan
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY 10032
| | - David A. Bennett
- Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612
| | - Tracy L. Young-Pearse
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138
| | - Philip L. De Jager
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
- Center for Translational & Computational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY 10032
| | - Timothy J. Hohman
- Vanderbilt Memory & Alzheimer’s Center, Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232
| | - Andrew A. Sproul
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
| | - Andrew F. Teich
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY 10032
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Light, Water, and Melatonin: The Synergistic Regulation of Phase Separation in Dementia. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065835. [PMID: 36982909 PMCID: PMC10054283 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The swift rise in acceptance of molecular principles defining phase separation by a broad array of scientific disciplines is shadowed by increasing discoveries linking phase separation to pathological aggregations associated with numerous neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, that contribute to dementia. Phase separation is powered by multivalent macromolecular interactions. Importantly, the release of water molecules from protein hydration shells into bulk creates entropic gains that promote phase separation and the subsequent generation of insoluble cytotoxic aggregates that drive healthy brain cells into diseased states. Higher viscosity in interfacial waters and limited hydration in interiors of biomolecular condensates facilitate phase separation. Light, water, and melatonin constitute an ancient synergy that ensures adequate protein hydration to prevent aberrant phase separation. The 670 nm visible red wavelength found in sunlight and employed in photobiomodulation reduces interfacial and mitochondrial matrix viscosity to enhance ATP production via increasing ATP synthase motor efficiency. Melatonin is a potent antioxidant that lowers viscosity to increase ATP by scavenging excess reactive oxygen species and free radicals. Reduced viscosity by light and melatonin elevates the availability of free water molecules that allow melatonin to adopt favorable conformations that enhance intrinsic features, including binding interactions with adenosine that reinforces the adenosine moiety effect of ATP responsible for preventing water removal that causes hydrophobic collapse and aggregation in phase separation. Precise recalibration of interspecies melatonin dosages that account for differences in metabolic rates and bioavailability will ensure the efficacious reinstatement of the once-powerful ancient synergy between light, water, and melatonin in a modern world.
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Lester E, Parker R. Tau, RNA, and RNA-Binding Proteins: Complex Interactions in Health and Neurodegenerative Diseases. Neuroscientist 2023:10738584231154551. [PMID: 36892034 DOI: 10.1177/10738584231154551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
The tau protein is a key contributor to multiple neurodegenerative diseases. The pathology of tau is thought to be related to tau's propensity to form self-templating fibrillar structures that allow tau fibers to propagate in the brain by prion-like mechanisms. Unresolved issues with respect to tau pathology are how the normal function of tau and its misregulation contribute to disease, how cofactors and cellular organelles influence the initiation and propagation of tau fibers, and determining the mechanism of tau toxicity. Herein, we review the connection between tau and degenerative diseases, the basis for tau fibrilization, and how that process interacts with cellular molecules and organelles. One emerging theme is that tau interacts with RNA and RNA-binding proteins, normally and in pathologic aggregates, which may provide insight into alterations in RNA regulation observed in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan Lester
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Roy Parker
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
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Lim SM, Nahm M, Kim SH. Proteostasis and Ribostasis Impairment as Common Cell Death Mechanisms in Neurodegenerative Diseases. J Clin Neurol 2023; 19:101-114. [PMID: 36854331 PMCID: PMC9982182 DOI: 10.3988/jcn.2022.0379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The cellular homeostasis of proteins (proteostasis) and RNA metabolism (ribostasis) are essential for maintaining both the structure and function of the brain. However, aging, cellular stress conditions, and genetic contributions cause disturbances in proteostasis and ribostasis that lead to protein misfolding, insoluble aggregate deposition, and abnormal ribonucleoprotein granule dynamics. In addition to neurons being primarily postmitotic, nondividing cells, they are more susceptible to the persistent accumulation of abnormal aggregates. Indeed, defects associated with the failure to maintain proteostasis and ribostasis are common pathogenic components of age-related neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Furthermore, the neuronal deposition of misfolded and aggregated proteins can cause both increased toxicity and impaired physiological function, which lead to neuronal dysfunction and cell death. There is recent evidence that irreversible liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is responsible for the pathogenic aggregate formation of disease-related proteins, including tau, α-synuclein, and RNA-binding proteins, including transactive response DNA-binding protein 43, fused in sarcoma, and heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1. Investigations of LLPS and its control therefore suggest that chaperone/disaggregase, which reverse protein aggregation, are valuable therapeutic targets for effective treatments for neurological diseases. Here we review and discuss recent studies to highlight the importance of understanding the common cell death mechanisms of proteostasis and ribostasis in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Min Lim
- Cell Therapy Center and Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Minyeop Nahm
- Dementia Research Group, Korea Brain Research Institute, Daegu, Korea
| | - Seung Hyun Kim
- Cell Therapy Center and Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea.
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Bhagat R, Minaya MA, Renganathan A, Mehra M, Marsh J, Martinez R, Nana AL, Spina S, Seeley WW, Grinberg LT, Karch CM. Long non-coding RNA SNHG8 drives stress granule formation in tauopathies. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.02.27.23286548. [PMID: 36909621 PMCID: PMC10002771 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.27.23286548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Tauopathies are a heterogenous group of neurodegenerative disorders characterized by tau aggregation in the brain. In a subset of tauopathies, rare mutations in the MAPT gene, which encodes the tau protein, are sufficient to cause disease; however, the events downstream of MAPT mutations are poorly understood. Here, we investigate the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), transcripts >200 nucleotides with low/no coding potential that regulate transcription and translation, and their role in tauopathy. Using stem cell derived neurons from patients carrying a MAPT p.P301L, IVS10+16, or p.R406W mutation, and CRISPR-corrected isogenic controls, we identified transcriptomic changes that occur as a function of the MAPT mutant allele. We identified 15 lncRNAs that were commonly differentially expressed across the three MAPT mutations. The commonly differentially expressed lncRNAs interact with RNA-binding proteins that regulate stress granule formation. Among these lncRNAs, SNHG8 was significantly reduced in a mouse model of tauopathy and in FTLD-tau, progressive supranuclear palsy, and Alzheimer’s disease brains. We show that SNHG8 interacts with tau and stress granule-associated RNA-binding protein TIA1. Overexpression of mutant tau in vitro is sufficient to reduce SNHG8 expression and induce stress granule formation. Rescuing SNHG8 expression leads to reduced stress granule formation and reduced TIA1 levels, suggesting that dysregulation of this non-coding RNA is a causal factor driving stress granule formation via TIA1 in tauopathies.
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Ainani H, Bouchmaa N, Ben Mrid R, El Fatimy R. Liquid-liquid phase separation of protein tau: An emerging process in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 178:106011. [PMID: 36702317 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic reactions within cells occur in various isolated compartments with or without borders, the latter being known as membrane-less organelles (MLOs). The MLOs show liquid-like properties and are formed by a process known as liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). MLOs contribute to different molecules interactions such as protein-protein, protein-RNA, and RNA-RNA driven by various factors, such as multivalency of intrinsic disorders. MLOs are involved in several cell signaling pathways such as transcription, immune response, and cellular organization. However, disruption of these processes has been found in different pathologies. Recently, it has been demonstrated that protein aggregates, a characteristic of some neurodegenerative diseases, undergo similar phase separation. Tau protein is known as a major neurofibrillary tangles component in Alzheimer's disease (AD). This protein can undergo phase separation to form a MLO known as tau droplet in vitro and in vivo, and this process can be facilitated by several factors, including crowding agents, RNA, and phosphorylation. Tau droplet has been shown to mature into insoluble aggregates suggesting that this process may precede and induce neurodegeneration in AD. Here we review major factors involved in liquid droplet formation within a cell. Additionally, we highlight recent findings concerning tau aggregation following phase separation in AD, along with the potential therapeutic strategies that could be explored in this process against the progression of this pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Ainani
- Institute of Biological Sciences (ISSB), UM6P-Faculty of Medical Sciences (UM6P-FMS), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben-Guerir, Morocco
| | - Najat Bouchmaa
- Institute of Biological Sciences (ISSB), UM6P-Faculty of Medical Sciences (UM6P-FMS), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben-Guerir, Morocco
| | - Reda Ben Mrid
- Institute of Biological Sciences (ISSB), UM6P-Faculty of Medical Sciences (UM6P-FMS), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben-Guerir, Morocco
| | - Rachid El Fatimy
- Institute of Biological Sciences (ISSB), UM6P-Faculty of Medical Sciences (UM6P-FMS), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben-Guerir, Morocco.
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45
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Minné D, Marnewick JL, Engel-Hills P. Early Chronic Stress Induced Changes within the Locus Coeruleus in Sporadic Alzheimer's Disease. Curr Alzheimer Res 2023; 20:301-317. [PMID: 37872793 DOI: 10.2174/1567205020666230811092956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Chronic exposure to stress throughout the lifespan has been the focus of many studies on Alzheimer's disease (AD) because of the similarities between the biological mechanisms involved in chronic stress and the pathophysiology of AD. In fact, the earliest abnormality associated with the disease is the presence of phosphorylated tau protein in locus coeruleus neurons, a brain structure highly responsive to stress and perceived threat. Here, we introduce allostatic load as a useful concept for understanding many of the complex, interacting neuropathological changes involved in the AD degenerative process. In response to chronic stress, aberrant tau proteins that begin to accumulate within the locus coeruleus decades prior to symptom onset appear to represent a primary pathological event in the AD cascade, triggering a wide range of interacting brain changes involving neuronal excitotoxicity, endocrine alterations, inflammation, oxidative stress, and amyloid plaque exacerbation. While it is acknowledged that stress will not necessarily be the major precipitating factor in all cases, early tau-induced changes within the locus coeruleus-norepinephrine pathway suggests that a therapeutic window might exist for preventative measures aimed at managing stress and restoring balance within the HPA axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donné Minné
- Applied Microbial & Health Biotechnology Institute, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, 7535, South Africa
- Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, 7535, South Africa
| | - Jeanine L Marnewick
- Applied Microbial & Health Biotechnology Institute, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, 7535, South Africa
| | - Penelope Engel-Hills
- Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, 7535, South Africa
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Corsi A, Bombieri C, Valenti MT, Romanelli MG. Tau Isoforms: Gaining Insight into MAPT Alternative Splicing. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315383. [PMID: 36499709 PMCID: PMC9735940 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tau microtubule-associated proteins, encoded by the MAPT gene, are mainly expressed in neurons participating in axonal transport and synaptic plasticity. Six major isoforms differentially expressed during cell development and differentiation are translated by alternative splicing of MAPT transcripts. Alterations in the expression of human Tau isoforms and their aggregation have been linked to several neurodegenerative diseases called tauopathies, including Alzheimer's disease, progressive supranuclear palsy, Pick's disease, and frontotemporal dementia with parkinsonism linked to chromosome 17. Great efforts have been dedicated in recent years to shed light on the complex regulatory mechanism of Tau splicing, with a perspective to developing new RNA-based therapies. This review summarizes the most recent contributions to the knowledge of Tau isoform expression and experimental models, highlighting the role of cis-elements and ribonucleoproteins that regulate the alternative splicing of Tau exons.
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47
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Cabral AJ, Costello DC, Farny NG. The enigma of ultraviolet radiation stress granules: Research challenges and new perspectives. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:1066650. [DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.1066650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress granules (SGs) are non-membrane bound cytoplasmic condensates that form in response to a variety of different stressors. Canonical SGs are thought to have a cytoprotective role, reallocating cellular resources during stress by activation of the integrated stress response (ISR) to inhibit translation and avoid apoptosis. However, different stresses result in compositionally distinct, non-canonical SG formation that is likely pro-apoptotic, though the exact function(s) of both SGs subtypes remain unclear. A unique non-canonical SG subtype is triggered upon exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. While it is generally agreed that UV SGs are bona fide SGs due to their dependence upon the core SG nucleating protein Ras GTPase-activating protein-binding protein 1 (G3BP1), the localization of other key components of UV SGs are unknown or under debate. Further, the dynamics of UV SGs are not known, though unique properties such as cell cycle dependence have been observed. This Perspective compiles the available information on SG subtypes and on UV SGs in particular in an attempt to understand the formation, dynamics, and function of these mysterious stress-specific complexes. We identify key gaps in knowledge related to UV SGs, and examine the unique aspects of their formation. We propose that more thorough knowledge of the distinct properties of UV SGs will lead to new avenues of understanding of the function of SGs, as well as their roles in disease.
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Martinez P, Patel H, You Y, Jury N, Perkins A, Lee-Gosselin A, Taylor X, You Y, Viana Di Prisco G, Huang X, Dutta S, Wijeratne AB, Redding-Ochoa J, Shahid SS, Codocedo JF, Min S, Landreth GE, Mosley AL, Wu YC, McKinzie DL, Rochet JC, Zhang J, Atwood BK, Troncoso J, Lasagna-Reeves CA. Bassoon contributes to tau-seed propagation and neurotoxicity. Nat Neurosci 2022; 25:1597-1607. [PMID: 36344699 PMCID: PMC9708566 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-022-01191-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Tau aggregation is a defining histopathological feature of Alzheimer's disease and other tauopathies. However, the cellular mechanisms involved in tau propagation remain unclear. Here, we performed an unbiased quantitative proteomic study to identify proteins that specifically interact with this tau seed. We identified Bassoon (BSN), a presynaptic scaffolding protein, as an interactor of the tau seed isolated from a mouse model of tauopathy, and from Alzheimer's disease and progressive supranuclear palsy postmortem samples. We show that BSN exacerbates tau seeding and toxicity in both mouse and Drosophila models for tauopathy, and that BSN downregulation decreases tau spreading and overall disease pathology, rescuing synaptic and behavioral impairments and reducing brain atrophy. Our findings improve the understanding of how tau seeds can be stabilized by interactors such as BSN. Inhibiting tau-seed interactions is a potential new therapeutic approach for neurodegenerative tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Martinez
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Henika Patel
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Yanwen You
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Nur Jury
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Abigail Perkins
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Audrey Lee-Gosselin
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Xavier Taylor
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Yingjian You
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Gonzalo Viana Di Prisco
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Xiaoqing Huang
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Sayan Dutta
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Aruna B Wijeratne
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Javier Redding-Ochoa
- Division of Neuropathology, Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Syed Salman Shahid
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Radiology & Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Juan F Codocedo
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Sehong Min
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Gary E Landreth
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Amber L Mosley
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Yu-Chien Wu
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Radiology & Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - David L McKinzie
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Jean-Christophe Rochet
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Jie Zhang
- Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Brady K Atwood
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Juan Troncoso
- Division of Neuropathology, Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Cristian A Lasagna-Reeves
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
- Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
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Shapeshifting tau: from intrinsically disordered to paired-helical filaments. Essays Biochem 2022; 66:1001-1011. [PMID: 36373666 PMCID: PMC9760425 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20220150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Tau is an intrinsically disordered protein that has the ability to self-assemble to form paired helical and straight filaments in Alzheimer's disease, as well as the ability to form additional distinct tau filaments in other tauopathies. In the presence of microtubules, tau forms an elongated form associated with tubulin dimers via a series of imperfect repeats known as the microtubule binding repeats. Tau has recently been identified to have the ability to phase separate in vitro and in cells. The ability of tau to adopt a wide variety of conformations appears fundamental both to its biological function and also its association with neurodegenerative diseases. The recently highlighted involvement of low-complexity domains in liquid-liquid phase separation provides a critical link between the soluble function and the insoluble dysfunctional properties of tau.
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50
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Martin JL, Dawson SJ, Gale JE. An emerging role for stress granules in neurodegenerative disease and hearing loss. Hear Res 2022; 426:108634. [PMID: 36384053 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2022.108634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Stress granules (SGs) are membrane-less cytosolic assemblies that form in response to stress (e.g., heat, oxidative stress, hypoxia, viral infection and UV). Composed of mRNA, RNA binding proteins and signalling proteins, SGs minimise stress-related damage and promote cell survival. Recent research has shown that the stress granule response is vital to the cochlea's response to stress. However, emerging evidence suggests stress granule dysfunction plays a key role in the pathophysiology of multiple neurodegenerative diseases, several of which present with hearing loss as a symptom. Hearing loss has been identified as the largest potentially modifiable risk factor for dementia. The underlying reason for the link between hearing loss and dementia remains to be established. However, several possible mechanisms have been proposed including a common pathological mechanism. Here we will review the role of SGs in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases and explore possible links and emerging evidence that they may play an important role in maintenance of hearing and may be a common mechanism underlying age-related hearing loss and dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack L Martin
- UCL Ear Institute, 332 Gray's Inn Road, London WC1X 8EE, UK
| | - Sally J Dawson
- UCL Ear Institute, 332 Gray's Inn Road, London WC1X 8EE, UK.
| | - Jonathan E Gale
- UCL Ear Institute, 332 Gray's Inn Road, London WC1X 8EE, UK.
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