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Lv Z, Yin S, Cheng Z, Wang K. Lenalidomide improves H 2O 2‑induced PC12 cell injury by blocking the Notch signaling pathway. Exp Ther Med 2022; 23:421. [PMID: 35601070 PMCID: PMC9117949 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2022.11348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Lv
- Department of Orthopedics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610032, P.R. China
| | - Shao Yin
- Department of Orthopedics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610032, P.R. China
| | - Ziguan Cheng
- Department of Orthopedics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610032, P.R. China
| | - Kekai Wang
- Anorectal Department, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610032, P.R. China
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PFEIFFER RUTHM, MAYER BERND, KUNCL RALPHW, CHECK DAVIDP, CAHOON ELIZABETHK, RIVERA DONNAR, FREEDMAN DMICHAL. Identifying potential targets for prevention and treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis based on a screen of medicare prescription drugs. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2020; 21:235-245. [PMID: 31684770 PMCID: PMC9930913 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2019.1682613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background: Few well-established factors are associated with risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We comprehensively evaluate prescription drugs use in administrative health claims from U.S. Medicare beneficiaries in relation to ALS risk to generate hypotheses for further research. Methods: This is a population-based case-control study of 10,450 U.S. Medicare participants (ages 66-89 years) diagnosed with ALS, based on Medicare Parts A and B fee-for-service claims, between 1 January 2008, and 31 December 2014, and 104,500 controls (1:10 ratio) frequency-matched on age, sex, and selection year. Odds ratios (ORs) for the ALS association with 685 prescription drugs were estimated using logistic regression models for both a one- and three-year lag period. Covariates included demographic characteristics and key comorbidities, among other factors. Prescription drug use was based on Medicare Part D claims. We adjusted for multiple comparisons using a Bonferroni correction. Additional a priori analyses of sex hormone drugs were also undertaken. Results: In the large drug screen, we found 10 drugs significantly associated with lower ALS risk after the multiple-testing correction in a one-year and three-year lag analysis. These included several drugs for hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. In a separate a priori inquiry of sex hormone drugs, tamoxifen was related to lower ALS risk, and testosterone to a higher risk in women. Conclusions: These associations warrant replication in databases that include information on the severity and duration of medical conditions underlying drug use, and drug use over a longer portion of individuals' lifespans, to further help evaluate confounding by indication.
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Affiliation(s)
- RUTH M. PFEIFFER
- National Cancer Institute, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, NIH, DHHS, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - BERND MAYER
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - RALPH W. KUNCL
- Department of Biology, University of the Redlands, Redlands, CA, USA
| | - DAVID P. CHECK
- National Cancer Institute, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, NIH, DHHS, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - ELIZABETH K. CAHOON
- National Cancer Institute, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, NIH, DHHS, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - DONNA R. RIVERA
- National Cancer Institute, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, NIH, DHHS, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - D. MICHAL FREEDMAN
- National Cancer Institute, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, NIH, DHHS, Bethesda, MD, USA
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3
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McCombe PA, Lee JD, Woodruff TM, Henderson RD. The Peripheral Immune System and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Front Neurol 2020; 11:279. [PMID: 32373052 PMCID: PMC7186478 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe neurodegenerative disease that is defined by loss of upper and lower motor neurons, associated with accumulation of protein aggregates in cells. There is also pathology in extra-motor areas of the brain, Possible causes of cell death include failure to deal with the aggregated proteins, glutamate toxicity and mitochondrial failure. ALS also involves abnormalities of metabolism and the immune system, including neuroinflammation in the brain and spinal cord. Strikingly, there are also abnormalities of the peripheral immune system, with alterations of T lymphocytes, monocytes, complement and cytokines in the peripheral blood of patients with ALS. The precise contribution of the peripheral immune system in ALS pathogenesis is an active area of research. Although some trials of immunomodulatory agents have been negative, there is strong preclinical evidence of benefit from immune modulation and further trials are currently underway. Here, we review the emerging evidence implicating peripheral immune alterations contributing to ALS, and their potential as future therapeutic targets for clinical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela A. McCombe
- Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Wesley Medical Research, The Wesley Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - John D. Lee
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Trent M. Woodruff
- Wesley Medical Research, The Wesley Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Liu Y, Zhang Y, Zheng X, Fang T, Yang X, Luo X, Guo A, Newell KA, Huang XF, Yu Y. Galantamine improves cognition, hippocampal inflammation, and synaptic plasticity impairments induced by lipopolysaccharide in mice. J Neuroinflammation 2018; 15:112. [PMID: 29669582 PMCID: PMC5907415 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-018-1141-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroinflammation plays an important role in the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS, endotoxin) levels are higher in the brains of Alzheimer's disease patients and are associated with neuroinflammation and cognitive decline, while neural cholinergic signaling controls inflammation. This study aimed to examine the efficacy of galantamine, a clinically approved cholinergic agent, in alleviating LPS-induced neuroinflammation and cognitive decline as well as the associated mechanism. METHODS Mice were treated with galantamine (4 mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection) for 14 days prior to LPS exposure (intracerebroventricular injection). Cognitive tests were performed, including the Morris water maze and step-through tests. mRNA expression of the microglial marker (CD11b), astrocytic marker (GFAP), and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) were examined in the hippocampus by quantitative RT-PCR. The inflammatory signaling molecule, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB p65), and synapse-associated proteins (synaptophysin, SYN, and postsynaptic density protein 95, PSD-95) were examined in the hippocampus by western blotting. Furthermore, NF-κB p65 levels in microglial cells and hippocampal neurons were examined in response to LPS and galantamine. RESULTS Galantamine treatment prevented LPS-induced deficits in spatial learning and memory as well as memory acquisition of the passive avoidance response. Galantamine decreased the expression of microglia and astrocyte markers (CD11b and GFAP), pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α), and NF-κB p65 in the hippocampus of LPS-exposed mice. Furthermore, galantamine ameliorated LPS-induced loss of synapse-associated proteins (SYN and PSD-95) in the hippocampus. In the in vitro study, LPS increased NF-κB p65 levels in microglia (BV-2 cells); the supernatant of LPS-stimulated microglia (Mi-sup), but not LPS, decreased the viability of hippocampal neuronal cells (HT-22 cells) and increased NF-κB p65 levels as well as expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6) in HT-22 cells. Importantly, galantamine reduced the inflammatory response not only in the BV-2 microglia cell line, but also in the HT-22 hippocampal neuronal cell line. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that galantamine could be a promising treatment to improve endotoxin-induced cognitive decline and neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China.
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China.
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia.
| | - Yuyun Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xian Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tongyong Fang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xia Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xuan Luo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Anlei Guo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kelly A Newell
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Xu-Feng Huang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Yinghua Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China.
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Crowley T, Cryan JF, Downer EJ, O'Leary OF. Inhibiting neuroinflammation: The role and therapeutic potential of GABA in neuro-immune interactions. Brain Behav Immun 2016; 54:260-277. [PMID: 26851553 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2016.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Revised: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The central nervous system, once thought to be a site of immunological privilege, has since been found to harbour immunocompetent cells and to communicate with the peripheral nervous system. In the central nervous system (CNS), glial cells display immunological responses to pathological and physiological stimuli through pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine and chemokine signalling, antigen presentation and the clearing of cellular debris through phagocytosis. While this neuroinflammatory signalling can act to reduce neuronal damage and comprises a key facet of CNS homeostasis, persistent inflammation or auto-antigen-mediated immunoreactivity can induce a positive feedback cycle of neuroinflammation that ultimately results in necrosis of glia and neurons. Persistent neuroinflammation has been recognised as a major pathological component of virtually all neurodegenerative diseases and has also been a focus of research into the pathology underlying psychiatric disorders. Thus, pharmacological strategies to curb the pathological effects of persistent neuroinflammation are of interest for many disorders of the CNS. Accumulating evidence suggests that GABAergic activities are closely bound to immune processes and signals, and thus the GABAergic neurotransmitter system might represent an important therapeutic target in modulating neuroinflammation. Here, we review evidence that inflammation induces changes in the GABA neurotransmitter system in the CNS and that GABAergic signalling exerts a reciprocal influence over neuroinflammatory processes. Together, the data support the hypothesis that the GABA system is a potential therapeutic target in the modulation of central inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadhg Crowley
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - John F Cryan
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Ireland; APC Microbiome Institute, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - Eric J Downer
- School of Medicine, Discipline of Physiology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Olivia F O'Leary
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Ireland; APC Microbiome Institute, University College Cork, Ireland.
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6
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A Perspective on Roles Played by Innate and Adaptive Immunity in the Pathobiology of Neurodegenerative Disorders. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2015; 10:645-50. [PMID: 26520433 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-015-9639-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant innate and adaptive immune responses are neurodegenerative disease effectors. Disease is heralded by a generalized, but subtle immune activation orchestrated by the release of extracellular prion-like aggregated and oxidized or otherwise modified proteins. These are responsible for an inflammatory neurotoxic cascade. The perpetrators of such events include effector T cells and activated microglia. What ensues are Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and stroke with changed frequencies of effector T cell and reduced numbers or function of regulatory lymphocytes. The control of such immune responses could lead to new therapeutic strategies and the means to effectively combat a composite of diseases that have quite limited therapeutic options.
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7
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Arrat H, Lukas TJ, Siddique T. ACTH (Acthar Gel) Reduces Toxic SOD1 Protein Linked to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in Transgenic Mice: A Novel Observation. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0125638. [PMID: 25955410 PMCID: PMC4425507 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0125638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 03/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease with a complex etiology and pathology that makes the development of new therapies difficult. ACTH has neurotrophic and myotrophic effects, but has not been tested in an ALS mouse model. The G93A-SOD1 mouse model of ALS was used to test the ability of this drug to delay ALS-like symptoms. We showed that within a specific dose range, ACTH significantly postponed the disease onset and paralysis in the mouse model. To our surprise and of greater significance is that ACTH significantly reduced the levels of soluble SOD1 in the spinal cord and CNS tissues of G93A-SOD1 treated mice as well as cultured fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Arrat
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, United States of America
| | - Thomas J. Lukas
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, United States of America
- * E-mail: (TS); (TJL)
| | - Teepu Siddique
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, United States of America
- * E-mail: (TS); (TJL)
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8
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Pagliardini V, Pagliardini S, Corrado L, Lucenti A, Panigati L, Bersano E, Servo S, Cantello R, D'Alfonso S, Mazzini L. Chitotriosidase and lysosomal enzymes as potential biomarkers of disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a survey clinic-based study. J Neurol Sci 2014; 348:245-50. [PMID: 25563799 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2014.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Revised: 11/11/2014] [Accepted: 12/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine if blood chitotriosidase (Chit) activity and lysosomal enzyme levels might represent markers of disease activity and progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). It is a survey clinic-based study performed in a tertiary ALS centre. Blood samples were obtained from 76 patients with ALS in different stages of the disease and from 106 healthy individuals serving as controls. Chit activity and the levels of acid alpha-glucosidase, acid alpha-galattosidase A, beta-glucocerebrosidase, and alpha-l-iduronidase were detected using the dried blood spots (DBS) technique. The CHIT1 genotype for exon 10 duplication and for the p.G102S variant was also determined. Chit activity was significantly higher in ALS patients than in healthy individuals. This difference was independent of the genotypes at CHIT1 functional variants. Chit were significantly higher in 34 rapidly progressing patients as compared to 42 with slowly progressive disease. Acid alpha-glucosidase was higher than normal and significantly correlated with the severity of the disease. Glucocerebrosidase and alpha-l-iduronidase activity were significantly lower in patients than in the controls. Alpha-galactosidase A was higher than normal only in rapidly progressing patients. We have employed a very simple and affordable laboratory test to measure blood Chit and lysosomal enzymes activity which could be easily included in the screening of ALS patients recruited in clinical trials. Remarkably, high levels of chitinase and alpha-galactosidase A could help to distinguish patients with fast progression from those with slow progression of the disease and possibly to follow the effects of treatments on neuroinflammation and autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Severo Pagliardini
- Department of Pediatric and Newborn Screening, University of Torino, Italy
| | - Lucia Corrado
- Department of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases, A. Avogadro' University, Italy
| | - Ausiliatrice Lucenti
- Department of Neurology, A. Avogadro' University, Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, Novara, Italy
| | - Laura Panigati
- Department of Pediatric, A. Avogadro' University, Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, Novara, Italy
| | - Enrica Bersano
- Department of Neurology, A. Avogadro' University, Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, Novara, Italy
| | - Serena Servo
- Department of Neurology, A. Avogadro' University, Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, Novara, Italy
| | - Roberto Cantello
- Department of Neurology, A. Avogadro' University, Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, Novara, Italy
| | - Sandra D'Alfonso
- Department of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases, A. Avogadro' University, Italy
| | - Letizia Mazzini
- Department of Neurology, A. Avogadro' University, Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, Novara, Italy.
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Zhang L, Li S, Hong M, Xu Y, Wang S, Liu Y, Qian Y, Zhao J. A colorimetric and ratiometric fluorescent probe for the imaging of endogenous hydrogen sulphide in living cells and sulphide determination in mouse hippocampus. Org Biomol Chem 2014; 12:5115-25. [DOI: 10.1039/c4ob00285g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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10
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Song F, Chiang P, Ravits J, Loeb JA. Activation of microglial neuregulin1 signaling in the corticospinal tracts of ALS patients with upper motor neuron signs. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2013; 15:77-83. [DOI: 10.3109/21678421.2013.853802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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11
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Cervetto C, Frattaroli D, Maura G, Marcoli M. Motor neuron dysfunction in a mouse model of ALS: Gender-dependent effect of P2X7 antagonism. Toxicology 2013; 311:69-77. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2013.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2013] [Revised: 03/12/2013] [Accepted: 04/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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ALSUntangled No. 22: Propofol. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2013; 14:640-2. [DOI: 10.3109/21678421.2013.826469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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13
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Death Receptors in the Selective Degeneration of Motoneurons in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. JOURNAL OF NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES 2013; 2013:746845. [PMID: 26316997 PMCID: PMC4437334 DOI: 10.1155/2013/746845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2013] [Accepted: 06/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
While studies on death receptors have long been restricted to immune cells, the last decade has provided a strong body of evidence for their implication in neuronal death and hence neurodegenerative disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS is a fatal paralytic disorder that primarily affects motoneurons in the brain and spinal cord. A neuroinflammatory process, associated with astrocyte and microglial activation as well as infiltration of immune cells, accompanies motoneuron degeneration and supports the contribution of non-cell-autonomous mechanisms in the disease. Hallmarks of Fas, TNFR, LT-βR, and p75NTR signaling have been observed in both animal models and ALS patients. This review summarizes to date knowledge of the role of death receptors in ALS and the link existing between the selective loss of motoneurons and neuroinflammation. It further suggests how this recent evidence could be included in an ultimate multiapproach to treat patients.
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Trippier PC, Labby KJ, Hawker DD, Mataka JJ, Silverman RB. Target- and mechanism-based therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases: strength in numbers. J Med Chem 2013; 56:3121-47. [PMID: 23458846 PMCID: PMC3637880 DOI: 10.1021/jm3015926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The development of new therapeutics for the treatment of neurodegenerative pathophysiologies currently stands at a crossroads. This presents an opportunity to transition future drug discovery efforts to target disease modification, an area in which much still remains unknown. In this Perspective we examine recent progress in the areas of neurodegenerative drug discovery, focusing on some of the most common targets and mechanisms: N-methyl-d-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptors, voltage gated calcium channels (VGCCs), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), oxidative stress from reactive oxygen species, and protein aggregation. These represent the key players identified in neurodegeneration and are part of a complex, intertwined signaling cascade. The synergistic delivery of two or more compounds directed against these targets, along with the design of small molecules with multiple modes of action, should be explored in pursuit of more effective clinical treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul C. Trippier
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208-3113, USA
| | - Kristin Jansen Labby
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208-3113, USA
| | - Dustin D. Hawker
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208-3113, USA
| | - Jan J. Mataka
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208-3113, USA
| | - Richard B. Silverman
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208-3113, USA
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Center for Molecular Innovation and Drug Discovery, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
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15
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Brettschneider J, Toledo JB, Van Deerlin VM, Elman L, McCluskey L, Lee VMY, Trojanowski JQ. Microglial activation correlates with disease progression and upper motor neuron clinical symptoms in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. PLoS One 2012; 7:e39216. [PMID: 22720079 PMCID: PMC3375234 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0039216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2012] [Accepted: 05/17/2012] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims We evaluated clinicopathological correlates of upper motor neuron (UMN) damage in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and analyzed if the presence of the C9ORF72 repeat expansion was associated with alterations in microglial inflammatory activity. Methods Microglial pathology was assessed by IHC with 2 different antibodies (CD68, Iba1), myelin loss by Kluver-Barrera staining and myelin basic protein (MBP) IHC, and axonal loss by neurofilament protein (TA51) IHC, performed on 59 autopsy cases of ALS including 9 cases with C9ORF72 repeat expansion. Results Microglial pathology as depicted by CD68 and Iba1 was significantly more extensive in the corticospinal tract (CST) of ALS cases with a rapid progression of disease. Cases with C9ORF72 repeat expansion showed more extensive microglial pathology in the medulla and motor cortex which persisted after adjusting for disease duration in a logistic regression model. Higher scores on the clinical UMN scale correlated with increasing microglial pathology in the cervical CST. TDP-43 pathology was more extensive in the motor cortex of cases with rapid progression of disease. Conclusions This study demonstrates that microglial pathology in the CST of ALS correlates with disease progression and is linked to severity of UMN deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Brettschneider
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease Research, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America.
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16
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Canzi L, Castellaneta V, Navone S, Nava S, Dossena M, Zucca I, Mennini T, Bigini P, Parati EA. Human skeletal muscle stem cell antiinflammatory activity ameliorates clinical outcome in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis models. Mol Med 2012; 18:401-11. [PMID: 22076467 DOI: 10.2119/molmed.2011.00123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2011] [Accepted: 11/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy is considered one of the most promising approaches for treating different neurodegenerative disorders, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We previously characterized a subpopulation of human skeletal muscle-derived stem cells (SkmSCs) with MSC-like characteristics that differentiate into the neurogenic lineage in vitro. In the present study, we evaluated the SkmSC therapeutic effects in the most characterized model of spontaneous motor neuron degeneration, the Wobbler (Wr) mouse. Before evaluating the therapeutic efficacy in the Wr mouse, we followed the route of Skm-SCs at different times after intracerebroventricular injection. Two exogenous tracers, superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles and Hoechst 33258, were used for the in vivo and ex vivo tracking of SkmSCs. We found that the loading of both Hoechst and SPIO was not toxic and efficiently labeled SkmSCs. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system 7 Tesla allowed us to localize transplanted SkmSCs along the whole ventricular system up to 18 wks after injection. The ex vivo Hoechst 33258 visualization confirmed the in vivo results obtained by MRI analyses. Behavioral observations revealed a fast and sustained improvement of motor efficacy in SkmSC-treated Wr mice associated with a relevant protection of functional neuromuscular junctions. Moreover, we found that in SkmSC-treated Wr mice, a significant increase of important human antiinflammatory cytokines occurred. This evidence is in accordance with previous findings showing the bystander effect of stem cell transplantation in neurodegenerative disorders and further strengthens the hypothesis of the possible link between inflammation, cytotoxicity and ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Canzi
- Department of Cerebrovascular Disease, IRCCS Foundation, Neurological Institute "C. Besta," Milan, Italy.
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McCombe PA, Henderson RD. The Role of immune and inflammatory mechanisms in ALS. Curr Mol Med 2011; 11:246-54. [PMID: 21375489 PMCID: PMC3182412 DOI: 10.2174/156652411795243450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2011] [Accepted: 02/25/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe progressive neurodegenerative disease. The cause is unknown, but genetic abnormalities have been identified in subjects with familial ALS and also in subjects with sporadic ALS. Environmental factors such as occupational exposure have been shown to be risk factors for the development of ALS. Patients differ in their clinical features and differ in the clinical course of disease. Immune abnormalities have been found in the central nervous system by pathological studies and also in the blood and CSF of subjects with ALS. Inflammation and immune abnormalities are also found in animals with a model of ALS due to mutations in the SOD1 gene. Previously it has been considered that immune abnormalities might contribute to the pathogenesis of disease. However more recently it has become apparent that an immune response can occur as a response to damage to the nervous system and this can be protective.
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Affiliation(s)
- P A McCombe
- The University of Queensland, UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Australia.
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Grant KM, LeVan TD, Wells SM, Li M, Stoltenberg SF, Gendelman HE, Carlo G, Bevins RA. Methamphetamine-associated psychosis. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2011; 7:113-39. [PMID: 21728034 PMCID: PMC3280383 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-011-9288-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2011] [Accepted: 06/21/2011] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH) is a frequent drug of abuse in U.S. populations and commonly associated with psychosis. This may be a factor in frequent criminal justice referrals and lengthy treatment required by METH users. Persecutory delusions and auditory hallucinations are the most consistent symptoms of METH-associated psychosis (MAP). MAP has largely been studied in Asian populations and risk factors have varied across studies. Duration, frequency and amount of use as well as sexual abuse, family history, other substance use, and co-occurring personality and mood disorders are risk factors for MAP. MAP may be unique with its long duration of psychosis and recurrence without relapse to METH. Seven candidate genes have been identified that may be associated with MAP. Six of these genes are also associated with susceptibility, symptoms, or treatment of schizophrenia and most are linked to glutamatergic neurotransmission. Animal studies of pre-pulse inhibition, attenuation of social interaction, and stereotypy and alterations in locomotion are used to study MAP in rodents. Employing various models, rodent studies have identified neuroanatomical and neurochemical changes associated with METH use. Throughout this review, we identify key gaps in our understanding of MAP and suggest potential directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen M Grant
- Department of Internal Medicine, VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5300, USA.
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Iłżecka J. Granzymes A and B levels in serum of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Clin Biochem 2011; 44:650-3. [PMID: 21349256 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2011.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2010] [Revised: 02/07/2011] [Accepted: 02/13/2011] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There are evidences that immuno-inflammatory mechanisms and apoptosis may play a role in the pathophysiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). It is known that Granzyme A (GzmA) and granzyme B (GzmB) are implicated in these mechanisms. The aim of the study was to investigate serum GzmA and GzmB levels in patients with ALS. DESIGN AND METHODS The study included 30 patients with ALS and 30 patients from the control group. Serum GzmA and GzmB levels were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent method. RESULTS The study showed that GzmA and GzmB levels are significantly increased in serum of patients with ALS when compared to the control group (p<0.05). There was a significant correlation of serum GzmB levels with severity of clinical state of ALS patients (p<0.05). CONCLUSION The results indicate that GzmA and GzmB are implicated in mechanisms of neurodegeneration in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Iłżecka
- Department of Neurological Rehabilitation, Medical University, ul. Chodźki 6, 20–953 Lublin, Poland.
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Abstract
The mechanism of Aimspro remains unproven; if it is an immunomodulator and/or a modulator of sodium channels, it theoretically could be useful in ALS. A single, detailed but significantly flawed case report documents slowing in decline of certain respiratory functions in a patient claiming to have ALS, who started Aimspro shortly after bipap. Based upon this limited information, ALSUntangled supports further study of Aimspro, either in ALS animal models or in a small phase 2 trial with clear and objective endpoints carried out by skilled trialists familiar with the problems inherent with ALS clinical studies. Until a trial is undertaken, however, we do not support further use of this product by PALS.
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Polazzi E, Monti B. Microglia and neuroprotection: from in vitro studies to therapeutic applications. Prog Neurobiol 2010; 92:293-315. [PMID: 20609379 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2010.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2010] [Revised: 06/21/2010] [Accepted: 06/22/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Microglia are the main immune cells in the brain, playing a role in both physiological and pathological conditions. Microglial involvement in neurodegenerative diseases is well-established, being microglial activation and neuroinflammation common features of these neuropathologies. Microglial activation has been considered harmful for neurons, but inflammatory state is not only associated with neurotoxic consequences, but also with neuroprotective effects, such as phagocytosis of dead neurons and clearance of debris. This brought to the idea of protective autoimmunity in the brain and to devise immunomodulatory therapies, aimed to specifically increase neuroprotective aspects of microglia. During the last years, several data supported the intrinsic neuroprotective function of microglia through the release of neuroprotective molecules. These data led to change the traditional view of microglia in neurodegenerative diseases: from the idea that these cells play an detrimental role for neurons due to a gain of their inflammatory function, to the proposal of a loss of microglial neuroprotective function as a causing factor in neuropathologies. This "microglial dysfunction hypothesis" points at the importance of understanding the mechanisms of microglial-mediated neuroprotection to develop new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. In vitro models are very important to clarify the basic mechanisms of microglial-mediated neuroprotection, mainly for the identification of potentially effective neuroprotective molecules, and to design new approaches in a gene therapy set-up. Microglia could act as both a target and a vehicle for CNS gene delivery of neuroprotective factors, endogenously produced by microglia in physiological conditions, thus strengthening the microglial neuroprotective phenotype, even in a pathological situation.
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Z-ligustilide attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced proinflammatory response via inhibiting NF-kappaB pathway in primary rat microglia. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2010; 31:791-7. [PMID: 20581853 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2010.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of Z-ligustilide (LIG) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated primary rat microglia. METHODS Microglia were pretreated with LIG 1 h prior to stimulation with LPS (1 microg/mL). After 24 h, cell viability was tested with MTT, nitric oxide (NO) production was assayed with Griess reagent, and the content of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP-1) was measured with ELISA. Protein expression of the nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) p65 subunit, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was detected with immunocytochemistry 1 h or 24 h after LPS treatment. RESULTS LIG showed a concentration-dependent anti-inflammatory effect in LPS-activated microglia, without causing cytotoxicity. Pretreatment with LIG at 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 micromol/L decreased LPS-induced NO production to 75.9%, 54.4%, 43.1%, and 47.6% (P<0.05 or P< 0.01), TNF-alpha content to 86.2%, 68.3%, 40.1%, and 39.9% (P<0.01, with the exception of 86.2% for 2.5 micromol/L LIG), IL-1beta content to 31.5%, 27.7%, 0.6%, and 0% (P<0.01), and MCP-1 content to 84.4%, 50.3%, 45.1%, and 42.2% (P<0.05 or P<0.01), respectively, compared with LPS treatment alone. LIG (10 micromol/L) significantly inhibited LPS-stimulated immunoreactivity of activated NF-kappaB, COX-2, and iNOS (P<0.01 vs LPS group). CONCLUSION LIG exerted a potent anti-inflammatory effect on microglia through inhibition of NF-kappaB pathway. The data provide direct evidence of the neuroprotective effects of LIG and the potential application of LIG for the treatment of the neuroinflammatory diseases characterized by excessive microglial activation.
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