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Koyya P, Manthari RK, Pandrangi SL. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor - The Protective Agent Against Neurological Disorders. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS DRUG TARGETS 2024; 23:353-366. [PMID: 37287291 DOI: 10.2174/1871527322666230607110617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The burden of neurological illnesses on global health is significant. Our perception of the molecular and biological mechanisms underlying intellectual processing and behavior has significantly advanced over the last few decades, laying the groundwork for potential therapies for various neurodegenerative diseases. A growing body of literature reveals that most neurodegenerative diseases could be due to the gradual failure of neurons in the brain's neocortex, hippocampus, and various subcortical areas. Research on various experimental models has uncovered several gene components to understand the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. One among them is the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which performs several vital functions, enhancing synaptic plasticity and assisting in the emergence of long-term thoughts. The pathophysiology of some neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Schizophrenia, and Huntington's, has been linked to BDNF. According to numerous research, high levels of BDNF are connected to a lower risk of developing a neurodegenerative disease. As a result, we want to concentrate on BDNF in this article and outline its protective role against neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prathyusha Koyya
- Department of Biotechnology, GITAM School of Science, Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam-530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Ram Kumar Manthari
- Department of Biotechnology, GITAM School of Science, Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam-530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Santhi Latha Pandrangi
- Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, GITAM School of Science, Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam- 530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
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Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Activity of Extra Virgin Olive Oil Extracts Obtained from Quercetano Cultivar Trees Grown in Different Areas of the Tuscany Region (Italy). Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10030421. [PMID: 33801925 PMCID: PMC8000409 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10030421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are driven by several mechanisms such as inflammation, abnormal protein aggregation, excitotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. So far, no therapeutic strategies are available for neurodegenerative diseases and in recent years the research is focusing on bioactive molecules present in food. In particular, extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) phenols have been associated to neuroprotection. In this study, we investigated the potential antioxidant and neuroprotective activity of two different EVOO extracts obtained from Quercetano cultivar trees grown in two different areas (plain and hill) of the Tuscany region (Italy). The different geographical origin of the orchards influenced phenol composition. Plain extract presented a higher content of phenyl ethyl alcohols, cinnammic acids, oleacein, oleocanthal and flavones; meanwhile, hill extract was richer in lignans. Hill extract was more effective in protecting differentiated SH-SY5Y cells from peroxide stress thanks to a marked upregulation of the antioxidant enzymes heme oxygenase 1, NADPH quinone oxidoreductase 1, thioredoxin Reductase 1 and glutathione reductase. Proteomic analysis revealed that hill extract plays a role in the regulation of proteins involved in neuronal plasticity and activation of neurotrophic factors such as BDNF. In conclusion, these data demonstrate that EVOOs can have important neuroprotective activities, but these effects are strictly related to their specific phenol composition.
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Li X, Zhuang YY, Wu L, Xie M, Gu HF, Wang B, Tang XQ. Hydrogen Sulfide Ameliorates Cognitive Dysfunction in Formaldehyde-Exposed Rats: Involvement in the Upregulation of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor. Neuropsychobiology 2020; 79:119-130. [PMID: 31550727 DOI: 10.1159/000501294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether hydrogen sulfide (H2S) counteracts formaldehyde (FA)-induced cognitive defects and whether the underlying mechanism is involved in the upregulation of hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression. METHODS The cognitive function of rats was evaluated by the Morris water maze (MWM) test and the novel object recognition test. The content of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the hippocampus were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The neuronal apoptosis in the hippocampal CA1 region was detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end (TUNEL) staining. The expression of the BDNF protein was detected by Western blot and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS We found that sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS, a donor of H2S) significantly reversed the impairment in the function of learning and memory in the MWM test and the novel objective recognition task induced by intracerebroventricular injection of FA. We also showed that NaHS significantly reduced the level of MDA, elevated the level of SOD, and decreased the amount of TUNEL-positive neurons in the hippocampus of FA-exposed rats. Moreover, NaHS markedly increased the expression of hippocampal BDNF in FA-exposed rats. CONCLUSIONS H2S attenuates FA-induced dysfunction of cognition and the underlying mechanism is involved in the reduction of hippocampal oxidative damage and apoptosis as well as upregulation of hippocampal BDNF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Zhuang
- Institute of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, China.,Key Laboratory for Cognitive Disorders and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Lei Wu
- Institute of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, China.,Key Laboratory for Cognitive Disorders and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Ming Xie
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Hong-Feng Gu
- Key Laboratory for Cognitive Disorders and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xiao-Qing Tang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, China, .,Institute of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, China, .,Key Laboratory for Cognitive Disorders and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Physiology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, China,
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Guarnieri G, Sarchielli E, Comeglio P, Herrera-Puerta E, Piaceri I, Nacmias B, Benelli M, Kelsey G, Maggi M, Gallina P, Vannelli GB, Morelli A. Tumor Necrosis Factor α Influences Phenotypic Plasticity and Promotes Epigenetic Changes in Human Basal Forebrain Cholinergic Neuroblasts. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6128. [PMID: 32854421 PMCID: PMC7504606 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
TNFα is the main proinflammatory cytokine implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders, but it also modulates physiological functions in both the developing and adult brain. In this study, we investigated a potential direct role of TNFα in determining phenotypic changes of a recently established cellular model of human basal forebrain cholinergic neuroblasts isolated from the nucleus basalis of Meynert (hfNBMs). Exposing hfNBMs to TNFα reduced the expression of immature markers, such as nestin and β-tubulin III, and inhibited primary cilium formation. On the contrary, TNFα increased the expression of TNFα receptor TNFR2 and the mature neuron marker MAP2, also promoting neurite elongation. Moreover, TNFα affected nerve growth factor receptor expression. We also found that TNFα induced the expression of DNA-methylation enzymes and, accordingly, downregulated genes involved in neuronal development through epigenetic mechanisms, as demonstrated by methylome analysis. In summary, TNFα showed a dual role on hfNBMs phenotypic plasticity, exerting a negative influence on neurogenesis despite a positive effect on differentiation, through mechanisms that remain to be elucidated. Our results help to clarify the complexity of TNFα effects in human neurons and suggest that manipulation of TNFα signaling could provide a potential therapeutic approach against neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Guarnieri
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.S.); (G.B.V.)
| | - Erica Sarchielli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.S.); (G.B.V.)
| | - Paolo Comeglio
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | | | - Irene Piaceri
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (I.P.); (B.N.)
| | - Benedetta Nacmias
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (I.P.); (B.N.)
| | - Matteo Benelli
- Bioinformatics Unit, Hospital of Prato, Azienda USL Toscana Centro, 50122 Prato, Italy;
| | - Gavin Kelsey
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK;
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1TN, UK
| | - Mario Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Pasquale Gallina
- Neurosurgical Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Gabriella Barbara Vannelli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.S.); (G.B.V.)
| | - Annamaria Morelli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (E.S.); (G.B.V.)
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Sarchielli E, Guarnieri G, Idrizaj E, Squecco R, Mello T, Comeglio P, Gallina P, Maggi M, Vannelli GB, Morelli A. The G protein-coupled oestrogen receptor, GPER1, mediates direct anti-inflammatory effects of oestrogens in human cholinergic neurones from the nucleus basalis of Meynert. J Neuroendocrinol 2020; 32:e12837. [PMID: 32077170 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
It has been well established, particularly in animal models, that oestrogens exert neuroprotective effects in brain areas linked to cognitive processes. A key protective role could reside in the capacity of oestrogen to modulate the inflammatory response. However, the direct neuroprotective actions of oestrogens on neurones are complex and remain to be fully clarified. In the present study, we took advantage of a previously characterised primary culture of human cholinergic neurones (hfNBM) from the foetal nucleus basalis of Meynert, which is known to regulate hippocampal and neocortical learning and memory circuits, aiming to investigate the direct effects of oestrogens under inflammatory conditions. Exposure of cells to tumour necrosis factor (TNF)α (10 ng mL-1 ) determined the activation of an inflammatory response, as demonstrated by nuclear factor-kappa B p65 nuclear translocation and cyclooxygenase-2 mRNA expression. These effects were inhibited by treatment with either 17β-oestradiol (E2 ) (10 nmol L-1 ) or G1 (100 nmol L-1 ), the selective agonist of the G protein-coupled oestrogen receptor (GPER1). Interestingly, the GPER1 antagonist G15 abolished the effects of E2 in TNFα-treated cells, whereas the ERα/ERβ inhibitor tamoxifen did not. Electrophysiological measurements in hfNBMs revealed a depolarising effect caused by E2 that was specifically blocked by tamoxifen and not by G15. Conversely, G1 specifically hyperpolarised the cell membrane and also increased both inward and outward currents elicited by a depolarising stimulus, suggesting a modulatory action on hfNBM excitability by GPER1 activation. Interestingly, pretreating cells with TNFα completely blocked the effects of G1 on membrane properties and also significantly reduced GPER1 mRNA expression. In addition, we found a peculiar subcellular localisation of GPER1 to focal adhesion sites that implicates new possible mechanisms of action of GPER1 in the neuronal perception of mechanical stimuli. The results obtained in the present study indicate a modulatory functional role of GPER1 with respect to mediating the oestrogen neuroprotective effect against inflammation in brain cholinergic neurones and, accordingly, may help to identify protective strategies for preventing cognitive impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Sarchielli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Guarnieri
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Eglantina Idrizaj
- Section of Physiological Sciences, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Roberta Squecco
- Section of Physiological Sciences, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Tommaso Mello
- Clinical Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Paolo Comeglio
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pasquale Gallina
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Neurosurgery School of Tuscany, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gabriella B Vannelli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Annamaria Morelli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Zhang R, Ma Z, Liu K, Li Y, Liu D, Xu L, Deng X, Qu R, Ma Z, Ma S. Baicalin exerts antidepressant effects through Akt/FOXG1 pathway promoting neuronal differentiation and survival. Life Sci 2019; 221:241-248. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2019.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Marini M, Manetti M, Sgambati E. Immunolocalization of VEGF/VEGFR system in human fetal vomeronasal organ during early development. Acta Histochem 2019; 121:94-100. [PMID: 30442382 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2018.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The vomeronasal system (VNS) is an accessory olfactory structure present in most mammals adhibited to the detection of specific chemosignals implied in social and reproductive behavior. The VNS comprises the vomeronasal organ (VNO), vomeronasal nerve and accessory olfactory bulb. VNO is characterized by a neuroepithelium constituted by bipolar neurons and supporting and stem/progenitor cells. In humans, VNO is present during fetal life and is supposed to possess chemoreceptor activity and participate in gonadotropin-releasing hormone neuronal precursor migration toward the hypothalamus. Instead, the existence and functions of VNO in postnatal life is debated. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors (VEGFRs) have been demonstrated to play fundamental roles in various neurogenic events. However, there are no data regarding the localization and possible function of VEGF/VEGFRs in human fetal VNO. Therefore, this study was conceived to investigate the expression of VEGF/VEGFRs in human VNO in an early developmental period (9-12 weeks of gestation), when this organ appears well structured. Coronal sections of maxillofacial specimens were subjected to peroxidase-based immunohistochemistry for VEGF, VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2. Double immunofluorescence for VEGF, VEGFR-1 or VEGFR-2 and the neuronal marker protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5) was also performed. VEGF expression was evident in the entire VNO epithelium, with particularly strong reactivity in the middle layer. Strongly VEGF-immunostained cells with aspect similar to bipolar neurons and/or their presumable precursors were detected in the middle and basal layers. Cells detaching from the basal epithelial layer and detached cell groups in the surrounding lamina propria showed moderate/strong VEGF expression. The strongest VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2 expression was detected in the apical epithelial layer. Cells with aspect similar to bipolar neurons and/or their presumable precursors located in the middle and basal layers and the detaching/detached cells displayed a VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2 reactivity similar to that of VEGF. The basal epithelial layer exhibited stronger staining for VEGFRs than for VEGF. Cells with morphology and VEGF/VEGFR expression similar to those of the detaching/detached cells were also detected in the middle and basal VNO epithelial layers. Double immunofluorescence using anti-PGP 9.5 antibodies demonstrated that most of the VEGF/VEGFR-immunoreactive cells were neuronal cells. Collectively, our findings suggest that during early fetal development the VEGF/VEGFR system might be involved in the presumptive VNO chemoreceptor activity and neuronal precursor migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirca Marini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Mirko Manetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Eleonora Sgambati
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, Contrada Fonte Lappone, 86090 Pesche, Isernia, Italy.
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Degl'Innocenti D, Ramazzotti M, Sarchielli E, Monti D, Chevanne M, Vannelli GB, Barletta E. Oxadiazon affects the expression and activity of aldehyde dehydrogenase and acylphosphatase in human striatal precursor cells: A possible role in neurotoxicity. Toxicology 2018; 411:110-121. [PMID: 30391265 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2018.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to herbicides can induce long-term chronic adverse effects such as respiratory diseases, malignancies and neurodegenerative diseases. Oxadiazon, a pre-emergence or early post-emergence herbicide, despite its low acute toxicity, may induce liver cancer and may exert adverse effects on reproductive and on endocrine functions. Unlike other herbicides, there are no indications on neurotoxicity associated with long-term exposure to oxadiazon. Therefore, we have analyzed in primary neuronal precursor cells isolated from human striatal primordium the effects of non-cytotoxic doses of oxadiazon on neuronal cell differentiation and migration, and on the expression and activity of the mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) and of the acylphosphatase (ACYP). ALDH2 activity protects neurons against neurotoxicity induced by toxic aldehydes during oxidative stress and plays a role in neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. ACYP is involved in ion transport, cell differentiation, programmed cell death and cancer, and increased levels of ACYP have been revealed in fibroblasts from patients affected by Alzheimer's disease. In this study we demonstrated that non-cytotoxic doses of oxadiazon were able to inhibit neuronal striatal cell migration and FGF2- and BDNF-dependent differentiation towards neuronal phenotype, and to inhibit the expression and activity of ALDH2 and to increase the expression and activity of ACYP2. In addition, we have provided evidence that in human primary neuronal precursor striatal cells the inhibitory effects of oxadiazon on cell migration and differentiation towards neuronal phenotype were achieved through modulation of ACYP2. Taken together, our findings reveal for the first time that oxadiazon could exert neurotoxic effects by impairing differentiative capabilities of primary neuronal cells and indicate that ALDH2 and ACYP2 are relevant molecular targets for the neurotoxic effects of oxadiazon, suggesting a potential role of this herbicide in the onset of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Degl'Innocenti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Matteo Ramazzotti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Erica Sarchielli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Daniela Monti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Marta Chevanne
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Emanuela Barletta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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Cortical and spinal conditioned media modify the inward ion currents and excitability and promote differentiation of human striatal primordium. J Chem Neuroanat 2018; 90:87-97. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2017.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Neuroprotective effects of quercetin 4'-O-β-d-diglucoside on human striatal precursor cells in nutrient deprivation condition. Acta Histochem 2018; 120:122-128. [PMID: 29336843 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Several investigations have demonstrated neuroprotective effects of quercetin, a polyphenol widely present in nature, against neurotoxic chemicals, as well as in neuronal injury/neurodegenerative disease models. Most of these studies have been performed with quercetin aglycone and its metabolites, while scanty data are available on its glycosides. This study is aimed at investigating the neuroprotective effects of quercetin 3,4'-O-β-d-diglucoside (Q3,4'dG), isolated from the bulbs of the white cultivar (Allium cepa L.), using an in vitro model of human striatal precursor cells (HSPs), a primary culture isolated from the striatal primordium and previously characterized. To study the effect of Q3,4'dG on cell survival, HSPs were exposed to nutrient deprivation created by replacing culture medium with phosphate buffer saline (PBS). Our findings showed that Q3,4'dG treatment significantly promoted cell survival and strongly decreased apoptosis induced by nutrient deprivation, as evaluated by cell proliferation/death analyses. In addition, since the adhesive capacities of cells are essential for cell survival, the expression of some adhesion molecules, such as pancadherin and focal adhesion kinase, was evaluated. Interestingly, PBS exposure significantly decreased the expression of both molecules, while in the presence of Q3,4'dG this effect was prevented. This study provides evidence of a neuroprotective role exerted by Q3,4'dG and suggests its possible implication in sustaining neuronal survival for prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.
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11
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Morelli A, Sarchielli E, Guarnieri G, Coppi E, Pantano D, Comeglio P, Nardiello P, Pugliese AM, Ballerini L, Matucci R, Ambrosini S, Castronovo G, Valente R, Mazzanti B, Bucciantini S, Maggi M, Casamenti F, Gallina P, Vannelli GB. Young Human Cholinergic Neurons Respond to Physiological Regulators and Improve Cognitive Symptoms in an Animal Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:339. [PMID: 29163051 PMCID: PMC5666298 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The degeneration of cholinergic neurons of the nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM) in the basal forebrain (BF) is associated to the cognitive decline of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. To date no resolutive therapies exist. Cell-based replacement therapy is a strategy currently under consideration, although the mechanisms underlying the generation of stem cell-derived NBM cholinergic neurons able of functional integration remain to be clarified. Since fetal brain is an optimal source of neuronal cells committed towards a specific phenotype, this study is aimed at isolating cholinergic neurons from the human fetal NBM (hfNBMs) in order to study their phenotypic, maturational and functional properties. Extensive characterization confirmed the cholinergic identity of hfNBMs, including positivity for specific markers (such as choline acetyltransferase) and acetylcholine (Ach) release. Electrophysiological measurements provided the functional validation of hfNBM cells, which exhibited the activation of peculiar sodium (INa) and potassium (IK) currents, as well as the presence of functional cholinergic receptors. Accordingly, hfNBMs express both nicotinic and muscarinic receptors, which were activated by Ach. The hfNBMs cholinergic phenotype was regulated by the nerve growth factor (NGF), through the activation of the high-affinity NGF receptor TrkA, as well as by 17-β-estradiol through a peculiar recruitment of its own receptors. When intravenously administered in NBM-lesioned rats, hfNBMs determined a significant improvement in memory functions. Histological examination of brain sections showed that hfNBMs (labeled with PKH26 fluorescent dye prior to administration) reached the damaged brain areas. The study provides a useful model to study the ontogenetic mechanisms regulating the development and maintenance of the human brain cholinergic system and to assess new lines of research, including disease modeling, drug discovery and cell-based therapy for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Morelli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Erica Sarchielli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Guarnieri
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Coppi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Daniela Pantano
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Paolo Comeglio
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pamela Nardiello
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Anna M Pugliese
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Lara Ballerini
- Cell Therapy and Transfusion Medicine Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Rosanna Matucci
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Stefano Ambrosini
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Castronovo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", Section of Clinical Physiopathology, Florence, Italy
| | - Rosa Valente
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Benedetta Mazzanti
- Cell Therapy and Transfusion Medicine Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Mario Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Fiorella Casamenti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pasquale Gallina
- Neurosurgery School of Tuscany, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gabriella B Vannelli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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An expandable embryonic stem cell-derived Purkinje neuron progenitor population that exhibits in vivo maturation in the adult mouse cerebellum. Sci Rep 2017; 7:8863. [PMID: 28821816 PMCID: PMC5562837 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-09348-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The directed differentiation of patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells into cell-type specific neurons has inspired the development of therapeutic discovery for neurodegenerative diseases. Many forms of ataxia result from degeneration of cerebellar Purkinje cells, but thus far it has not been possible to efficiently generate Purkinje neuron (PN) progenitors from human or mouse pluripotent stem cells, let alone to develop a methodology for in vivo transplantation in the adult cerebellum. Here, we present a protocol to obtain an expandable population of cerebellar neuron progenitors from mouse embryonic stem cells. Our protocol is characterized by applying factors that promote proliferation of cerebellar progenitors. Cerebellar progenitors isolated in culture from cell aggregates contained a stable subpopulation of PN progenitors that could be expanded for up to 6 passages. When transplanted into the adult cerebellum of either wild-type mice or a strain lacking Purkinje cells (L7cre-ERCC1 knockout), GFP-labeled progenitors differentiated in vivo to establish a population of calbindin-positive cells in the molecular layer with dendritic trees typical of mature PNs. We conclude that this protocol may be useful for the generation and maturation of PNs, highlighting the potential for development of a regenerative medicine approach to the treatment of cerebellar neurodegenerative diseases.
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Parga JA, García-Garrote M, Martínez S, Raya Á, Labandeira-García JL, Rodríguez-Pallares J. Prostaglandin EP2 Receptors Mediate Mesenchymal Stromal Cell-Neuroprotective Effects on Dopaminergic Neurons. Mol Neurobiol 2017; 55:4763-4776. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0681-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Kertes DA, Bhatt SS, Kamin HS, Hughes DA, Rodney NC, Mulligan CJ. BNDF methylation in mothers and newborns is associated with maternal exposure to war trauma. Clin Epigenetics 2017; 9:68. [PMID: 28680507 PMCID: PMC5493129 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-017-0367-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The BDNF gene codes for brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a growth factor involved in neural development, cell differentiation, and synaptic plasticity. Present in both the brain and periphery, BDNF plays critical roles throughout the body and is essential for placental and fetal development. Rodent studies show that early life stress, including prenatal stress, broadly alters BDNF methylation, with presumed changes in gene expression. No studies have assessed prenatal exposure to maternal traumatic stress and BDNF methylation in humans. This study examined associations of prenatal exposure to maternal stress and BDNF methylation at CpG sites across the BDNF gene. RESULTS Among 24 mothers and newborns in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a region with extreme conflict and violence to women, maternal experiences of war trauma and chronic stress were associated with BDNF methylation in umbilical cord blood, placental tissue, and maternal venous blood. Associations of maternal stress and BDNF methylation showed high tissue specificity. The majority of significant associations were observed in putative transcription factor binding regions. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study in humans to examine BDNF methylation in relation to prenatal exposure to maternal stress in three tissues simultaneously and the first in any mammalian species to report associations of prenatal stress and BDNF methylation in placental tissue. The findings add to the growing body of evidence highlighting the importance of considering epigenetic effects when examining the impacts of trauma and stress, not only for adults but also for offspring exposed via effects transmitted before birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darlene A Kertes
- Department of Psychology and University of Florida Genetics Institute, 945 Center Drive, Gainesville, FL 32611-2250 USA
| | - Samarth S Bhatt
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Hayley S Kamin
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - David A Hughes
- Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Nicole C Rodney
- Department of Anthropology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Connie J Mulligan
- Department of Anthropology and University of Florida Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
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15
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Sarchielli E, Comeglio P, Squecco R, Ballerini L, Mello T, Guarnieri G, Idrizaj E, Mazzanti B, Vignozzi L, Gallina P, Maggi M, Vannelli GB, Morelli A. Tumor Necrosis Factor-α Impairs Kisspeptin Signaling in Human Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Primary Neurons. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2017; 102:46-56. [PMID: 27736314 PMCID: PMC5413096 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2016-2115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Inflammatory pathways may impair central regulatory networks involving gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neuron activity. Studies in humans are limited by the lack of human GnRH neuron cell lines. OBJECTIVE To establish an in vitro model of human GnRH neurons and analyze the effects of proinflammatory cytokines. DESIGN The primary human fetal hypothalamic cells (hfHypo) were isolated from 12-week-old fetuses. Responsiveness to kisspeptin, the main GnRH neurons' physiological regulator, was evaluated for biological characterization. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) was used as a proinflammatory stimulus. Main Outcome Measures: Expression of specific GnRH neuron markers by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, flow cytometry, and immunocytochemistry analyses; and GnRH-releasing ability and electrophysiological changes in response to kisspeptin. RESULTS The primary hfHypo showed a high percentage of GnRH-positive cells (80%), expressing a functional kisspeptin receptor (KISS1R) and able to release GnRH in response to kisspeptin. TNF-α exposure determined a specific inflammatory intracellular signaling and reduced GnRH secretion, KISS1R expression, and kisspeptin-induced depolarizing effect. Moreover, hfHypo possessed a primary cilium, whose assembly was inhibited by TNF-α. CONCLUSION The hfHypo cells represent a novel tool for investigations on human GnRH neuron biology. TNF-α directly affects GnRH neuron function by interfering with KISS1R expression and ciliogenesis, thereby impairing kisspeptin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lara Ballerini
- Cell Therapy and Transfusion Medicine Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | - Tommaso Mello
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio,” University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | | | | | - Benedetta Mazzanti
- Cell Therapy and Transfusion Medicine Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy;
| | | | - Pasquale Gallina
- Neurosurgery School of Tuscany, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; and
| | - Mario Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit and
- Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture e Biosistemi, 00136 Rome, Italy
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16
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Trehalose rescues glial cell dysfunction in striatal cultures from HD R6/1 mice at early postnatal development. Mol Cell Neurosci 2016; 74:128-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2016.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2015] [Revised: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
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Squecco R, Idrizaj E, Morelli A, Gallina P, Vannelli GB, Francini F. An electrophysiological study on the effects of BDNF and FGF2 on voltage dependent Ca(2+) currents in developing human striatal primordium. Mol Cell Neurosci 2016; 75:50-62. [PMID: 27370937 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2016.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2016] [Revised: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past decades, studies in both Huntington's disease animal models and pilot clinical trials have demonstrated that replacement of degenerated striatum and repair of circuitries by grafting fetal striatal primordium is feasible, safe and may counteract disease progression. However, a better comprehension of striatal ontogenesis is required to assess the fetal graft regenerative potential. During neuronal development, neurotrophins exert pleiotropic actions in regulating cell fate and synaptic plasticity. In this regard, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) are crucially implicated in the control of fate choice of striatal progenitor cells. In this study, we intended to refine the functional features of human striatal precursor (HSP) cells isolated from ganglionic eminence of 9-12week old human fetuses, by studying with electrophysiological methods the effect of BDNF and FGF2 on the membrane biophysical properties and the voltage-dependent Ca(2+) currents. These features are particularly relevant to evaluate neuronal cell functioning and can be considered reliable markers of the developmental phenotype of human striatal primordium. Our results have demonstrated that BDNF and FGF2 induced membrane hyperpolarization, increased the membrane capacitance and reduced the resting total and specific conductance values, suggesting a more efficient control of resting ionic fluxes. Moreover, the treatment with both neurotrophins enhanced N-type Ca(2+) current amplitude and reduced L- and T-type ones. Overall, our data indicate that BDNF and FGF2 may help HSP cells to attain a more functionally mature phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Squecco
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Physiological Sciences, University of Florence, viale Morgagni 63, 50134 Florence, Italy.
| | - Eglantina Idrizaj
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Physiological Sciences, University of Florence, viale Morgagni 63, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Annamaria Morelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Pasquale Gallina
- Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Palagi 1, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Gabriella B Vannelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Fabio Francini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Physiological Sciences, University of Florence, viale Morgagni 63, 50134 Florence, Italy
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Kreilaus F, Spiro AS, McLean CA, Garner B, Jenner AM. Evidence for altered cholesterol metabolism in Huntington's disease post mortem brain tissue. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2015; 42:535-46. [PMID: 26373857 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2015] [Accepted: 09/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Cholesterol plays an essential role in membrane structure and function, being especially important in the brain. Alteration of brain cholesterol synthesis and metabolism has been demonstrated in several Huntington's disease (HD) mouse and cell models; however, less is known about these alterations in human tissue. This study aimed to identify alterations to cholesterol synthetic and metabolic pathways in human HD brain tissue. METHODS A broad range of cholesterol synthetic precursors, metabolites and oxidation products were measured by gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry in five regions of human post mortem HD brain and compared with age- and sex-matched control tissues. The level of enzymes that regulate cholesterol homeostasis, cholesterol 24-hydroxylase and delta(24)-sterol reductase were investigated by Western blotting and qPCR in putamen. RESULTS The most significant changes were localized to the putamen, where a 60% decrease in 24(S)-hydroxycholesterol, 30% increase in cholesterol and 100-200% increase in synthetic precursors (lathosterol, zymosterol and desmosterol) was detected. The enzymes cholesterol 24-hydroxylase and delta(24)-sterol reductase were also significantly decreased in HD putamen as compared with control tissues. Free radical-generated cholesterol oxidation products 7-keto cholesterol and 7β-hydroxycholesterol were also increased by 50-70% in HD putamen. CONCLUSION Human HD brain has significantly decreased cholesterol metabolism and disrupted cholesterol homeostasis. Our data also indicate that lipid oxidative stress accompanies HD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Kreilaus
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia. .,School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia.
| | - Adena S Spiro
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia.,School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Catriona A McLean
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Alfred Hospital, Prahran, Australia
| | - Brett Garner
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia.,School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Andrew M Jenner
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia. .,School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia.
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Watanabe J, Matsumoto M, Kageyama H, Murai N, Sasaki S, Hirako S, Wada N, Arata S, Shioda S. Ghrelin suppresses proliferation of fetal neural progenitor cells, and induces their differentiation into neurons. Peptides 2015; 69:40-6. [PMID: 25828736 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2015.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2015] [Accepted: 03/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Although considerable progress has been made in understanding how the temporal and regional control of neural progenitor cells (NPCs) dictates their fate, their key regulators during neural development are still unknown. Ghrelin, which is isolated from porcine stomach extract, is an endogenous ligand for the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R). The widespread expression of ghrelin and GHS-R in the central nervous system during development suggests that ghrelin may be involved in developmental neural growth. However, its role in regulating fetal NPCs is still unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of ghrelin on primary cultured NPCs derived from fetal mouse telencephalon. The expressions of both ghrelin and its receptor were observed in NPCs using RT-PCR, immunoblotting and immunocytostaining. Interestingly, the exposure of fetal NPCs to ghrelin at concentrations of 10(-7) and 10(-9)M suppressed their proliferation, and caused them to differentiate into neurons and to extend neurites. These results strongly suggest that ghrelin plays an autocrine modulatory role in fetal neural development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Watanabe
- Department of Anatomy, Showa University School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan; Center for Biotechnology, Showa University, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Minako Matsumoto
- Department of Anatomy, Showa University School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Haruaki Kageyama
- Department of Anatomy, Showa University School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan; Faculty of Health Care, Kiryu University, Midori City, Gunma 379-2392, Japan
| | - Norimitsu Murai
- Department of Anatomy, Showa University School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Shun Sasaki
- Department of Anatomy, Showa University School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Satoshi Hirako
- Department of Anatomy, Showa University School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Nobuhiro Wada
- Department of Anatomy, Showa University School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Satoru Arata
- Center for Biotechnology, Showa University, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Seiji Shioda
- Department of Anatomy, Showa University School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan.
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20
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Porfirio B, Morelli A, Conti R, Vannelli GB, Gallina P. A commentary on "Differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into striatal projection neurons: a pure MSN fate may not be sufficient". Front Cell Neurosci 2015; 9:177. [PMID: 26029049 PMCID: PMC4428124 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Berardino Porfirio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence Florence, Italy
| | - Annamaria Morelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence Florence, Italy
| | - Renato Conti
- Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence Florence, Italy
| | - Gabriella B Vannelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence Florence, Italy
| | - Pasquale Gallina
- Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence Florence, Italy
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21
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Ambrosini S, Sarchielli E, Comeglio P, Porfirio B, Gallina P, Morelli A, Vannelli GB. Fibroblast growth factor and endothelin-1 receptors mediate the response of human striatal precursor cells to hypoxia. Neuroscience 2015; 289:123-33. [PMID: 25595970 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2014.12.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2014] [Revised: 11/20/2014] [Accepted: 12/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Fetal striatal transplantation has emerged as a new therapeutic strategy in Huntington's disease (HD). Hypoxia is one of the microenvironmental stress conditions to which fetal tissue is exposed as soon as it is isolated and transplanted into the diseased host brain. Mechanisms that support neuroblast survival and replenishment of damaged cells within the HD brain in the hypoxic condition have yet to be fully elucidated. This study is aimed at investigating the molecular pathways associated with the hypoxic condition in human fetal striatal neuroblasts (human striatal precursor (HSP) cells), using the hypoxia-mimetic agent cobalt chloride (CoCl2). We analyzed the effect of CoCl2 on HSP cell proliferation and on the expression of hypoxia-related proteins, such as hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Moreover, we evaluated fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2; 50ng/ml) and endothelin-1 (ET-1; 100nM) proliferative/survival effects in HSP cells in normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Dose-response experiments using increasing concentrations of CoCl2 (50-750μM) showed that the HSP cell growth was unaffected after 24h, while it increased at 48h, with the maximal effect observed at 400μM. In contrast, cell survival was impaired at 72h. Hypoxic conditions determined HIF-1α protein accumulation and increased gene and protein expression of VEGF, while FGF2 and ET-1 significantly stimulated HSP cell proliferation both in normoxic and hypoxic conditions, thus counteracting the apoptotic CoCl2 effect at 72h. The incubation with selective receptor (FGFR1, endothelin receptor A (ETA) and endothelin receptor B (ETB)) inhibitors abolished the FGF2 and ET-1 neuroprotective effect. In particular, ET-1 stimulated HSP cell survival through ETA in normoxic conditions and through ETB during hypoxia. Accordingly, ETA expression was down-regulated, while ETB expression was up-regulated by CoCl2 treatment. Overall, our results support the idea that HSP cells possess the machinery for their adaptation to hypoxic conditions and that neurotrophic factors, such as FGF2 and ET-1, may sustain neurogenesis and long-term survival through complex receptor-mediated mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ambrosini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - E Sarchielli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - P Comeglio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Science "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - B Porfirio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Science "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale G.B. Morgagni 50, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - P Gallina
- Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - A Morelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy.
| | - G B Vannelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
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22
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Mascalchi M, Diciotti S, Paganini M, Bianchi A, Ginestroni A, Lombardini L, Porfirio B, Conti R, Di Lorenzo N, Vannelli GB, Gallina P. Large-sized Fetal Striatal Grafts in Huntington's Disease Do Stop Growing: Long-term Monitoring in the Florence Experience. PLOS CURRENTS 2014; 6. [PMID: 25642368 PMCID: PMC4172581 DOI: 10.1371/currents.hd.c0ad575f12106c38f9f5717a8a7d05ae] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Development of six large nodules of solid tissue after bilateral human fetal striatal transplantation in four Huntington's disease patients has raised concern about the safety of this experimental therapy in our setting. We investigated by serial MRI-based volumetric analysis the growth behaviour of such grafts. After 33-73 months from transplantation the size of five grafts was stable and one graft showed a mild decrease in size. Signs neither of intracranial hypertension nor of adjuctive focal neurological deficit have ever been observed. This supports long-term safety of the grafting procedure at our Institution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Mascalchi
- Quantitative and Functional Neuroradiology Research Unit, Meyer Children and Careggi Hospitals, Florence, Italy; Department of Clinical and Experimental Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Stefano Diciotti
- Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Information Engineering "Guglielmo Marconi", University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Berardino Porfirio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Nicola Di Lorenzo
- Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Pasquale Gallina
- Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Italy
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23
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Samara A, Galbiati M, Luciani P, Deledda C, Messi E, Peri A, Maggi R. Altered expression of 3-betahydroxysterol delta-24-reductase/selective Alzheimer's disease indicator-1 gene in Huntington's disease models. J Endocrinol Invest 2014; 37:729-737. [PMID: 24916565 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-014-0098-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 05/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION 3-betahydroxysterol delta-24-reductase (DHCR24), also called selective Alzheimer's disease indicator-1, is a crucial enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis with neuroprotective properties that is downregulated in brain areas affected by Alzheimer's disease. AIM In the present study, we investigated modifications of DHCR24 expression in models of Huntington's disease (HD), a neurodegenerative disorder caused by a polyglutamine expansion in huntingtin (Htt) protein that induces degeneration of cerebral cortex and striatum as well as lateral hypothalamic abnormality. METHODS Basal expression of DHCR24 and its modulation after oxidative stress were evaluated in rat striatal precursors cells (ST14A) transfected with wild-type (Htt) or mutant Htt (mHtt) and in brain tissue of an HD mouse model (R6/2). RESULTS The results showed that DHCR24 transcript levels were decreased in ST14A cells expressing mHtt and in the brain of symptomatic R6/2 mice, but were significantly increased in ST14A cells overexpressing wild-type Htt. In addition, we demonstrated that, in the striatal precursors, the decrease of DHCR24 expression in response to oxidative stress was modified according to the presence of Htt or of its mutant form. Preliminary results indicated a modification of DHCR24 expression in post-mortem brain samples of HD patients. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, these results support the hypothesis of a possible role of DHCR24 in HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athina Samara
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Section of Biomedicine and Endocrinology, and Centre of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CEND), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti, 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
- University of Oslo and Norwegian Center for Stem Cell Research, 0317, Oslo, Norway
| | - Mariarita Galbiati
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Section of Biomedicine and Endocrinology, and Centre of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CEND), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti, 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Luciani
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Clinical Physiopathology, Center for Research, Transfer and High Education on Chronic, Inflammatory, Degenerative and Neoplastic Disorders for the Development of Novel Therapies' (DENOThe), University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Cristiana Deledda
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Clinical Physiopathology, Center for Research, Transfer and High Education on Chronic, Inflammatory, Degenerative and Neoplastic Disorders for the Development of Novel Therapies' (DENOThe), University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Elio Messi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Section of Biomedicine and Endocrinology, and Centre of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CEND), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti, 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Peri
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Clinical Physiopathology, Center for Research, Transfer and High Education on Chronic, Inflammatory, Degenerative and Neoplastic Disorders for the Development of Novel Therapies' (DENOThe), University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Roberto Maggi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Section of Biomedicine and Endocrinology, and Centre of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CEND), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti, 9, 20133, Milan, Italy.
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