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Santiago-Balmaseda A, Aguirre-Orozco A, Valenzuela-Arzeta IE, Villegas-Rojas MM, Pérez-Segura I, Jiménez-Barrios N, Hurtado-Robles E, Rodríguez-Hernández LD, Rivera-German ER, Guerra-Crespo M, Martinez-Fong D, Ledesma-Alonso C, Diaz-Cintra S, Soto-Rojas LO. Neurodegenerative Diseases: Unraveling the Heterogeneity of Astrocytes. Cells 2024; 13:921. [PMID: 38891053 PMCID: PMC11172252 DOI: 10.3390/cells13110921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The astrocyte population, around 50% of human brain cells, plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall health and functionality of the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes are vital in orchestrating neuronal development by releasing synaptogenic molecules and eliminating excessive synapses. They also modulate neuronal excitability and contribute to CNS homeostasis, promoting neuronal survival by clearance of neurotransmitters, transporting metabolites, and secreting trophic factors. Astrocytes are highly heterogeneous and respond to CNS injuries and diseases through a process known as reactive astrogliosis, which can contribute to both inflammation and its resolution. Recent evidence has revealed remarkable alterations in astrocyte transcriptomes in response to several diseases, identifying at least two distinct phenotypes called A1 or neurotoxic and A2 or neuroprotective astrocytes. However, due to the vast heterogeneity of these cells, it is limited to classify them into only two phenotypes. This review explores the various physiological and pathophysiological roles, potential markers, and pathways that might be activated in different astrocytic phenotypes. Furthermore, we discuss the astrocyte heterogeneity in the main neurodegenerative diseases and identify potential therapeutic strategies. Understanding the underlying mechanisms in the differentiation and imbalance of the astrocytic population will allow the identification of specific biomarkers and timely therapeutic approaches in various neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Santiago-Balmaseda
- Laboratorio de Patogénesis Molecular, Laboratorio 4 Edificio A4, Carrera Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 54090, Mexico; (A.S.-B.); (A.A.-O.); (M.M.V.-R.); (I.P.-S.); (E.H.-R.); (L.D.R.-H.); (E.R.R.-G.)
| | - Annai Aguirre-Orozco
- Laboratorio de Patogénesis Molecular, Laboratorio 4 Edificio A4, Carrera Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 54090, Mexico; (A.S.-B.); (A.A.-O.); (M.M.V.-R.); (I.P.-S.); (E.H.-R.); (L.D.R.-H.); (E.R.R.-G.)
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (I.E.V.-A.); (N.J.-B.); (D.M.-F.)
| | - Irais E. Valenzuela-Arzeta
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (I.E.V.-A.); (N.J.-B.); (D.M.-F.)
| | - Marcos M. Villegas-Rojas
- Laboratorio de Patogénesis Molecular, Laboratorio 4 Edificio A4, Carrera Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 54090, Mexico; (A.S.-B.); (A.A.-O.); (M.M.V.-R.); (I.P.-S.); (E.H.-R.); (L.D.R.-H.); (E.R.R.-G.)
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de Mexico 11340, Mexico
| | - Isaac Pérez-Segura
- Laboratorio de Patogénesis Molecular, Laboratorio 4 Edificio A4, Carrera Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 54090, Mexico; (A.S.-B.); (A.A.-O.); (M.M.V.-R.); (I.P.-S.); (E.H.-R.); (L.D.R.-H.); (E.R.R.-G.)
| | - Natalie Jiménez-Barrios
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (I.E.V.-A.); (N.J.-B.); (D.M.-F.)
| | - Ernesto Hurtado-Robles
- Laboratorio de Patogénesis Molecular, Laboratorio 4 Edificio A4, Carrera Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 54090, Mexico; (A.S.-B.); (A.A.-O.); (M.M.V.-R.); (I.P.-S.); (E.H.-R.); (L.D.R.-H.); (E.R.R.-G.)
| | - Luis Daniel Rodríguez-Hernández
- Laboratorio de Patogénesis Molecular, Laboratorio 4 Edificio A4, Carrera Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 54090, Mexico; (A.S.-B.); (A.A.-O.); (M.M.V.-R.); (I.P.-S.); (E.H.-R.); (L.D.R.-H.); (E.R.R.-G.)
| | - Erick R. Rivera-German
- Laboratorio de Patogénesis Molecular, Laboratorio 4 Edificio A4, Carrera Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 54090, Mexico; (A.S.-B.); (A.A.-O.); (M.M.V.-R.); (I.P.-S.); (E.H.-R.); (L.D.R.-H.); (E.R.R.-G.)
| | - Magdalena Guerra-Crespo
- Laboratorio de Medicina Regenerativa, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Daniel Martinez-Fong
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (I.E.V.-A.); (N.J.-B.); (D.M.-F.)
| | - Carlos Ledesma-Alonso
- Departamento de Neurobiología del Desarrollo y Neurofisiología, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Querétaro 76230, Mexico;
| | - Sofía Diaz-Cintra
- Departamento de Neurobiología del Desarrollo y Neurofisiología, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Querétaro 76230, Mexico;
| | - Luis O. Soto-Rojas
- Laboratorio de Patogénesis Molecular, Laboratorio 4 Edificio A4, Carrera Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 54090, Mexico; (A.S.-B.); (A.A.-O.); (M.M.V.-R.); (I.P.-S.); (E.H.-R.); (L.D.R.-H.); (E.R.R.-G.)
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Yang C, Jiang Z, Gao X, Yang H, Su J, Weng R, Ni W, Gu Y. Taurine ameliorates sensorimotor function by inhibiting apoptosis and activating A2 astrocytes in mice after subarachnoid hemorrhage. Amino Acids 2024; 56:31. [PMID: 38616233 PMCID: PMC11016520 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-024-03387-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a form of severe acute stroke with very high mortality and disability rates. Early brain injury (EBI) and delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) contribute to the poor prognosis of patients with SAH. Currently, some researchers have started to focus on changes in amino acid metabolism that occur in brain tissues after SAH. Taurine is a sulfur-containing amino acid that is semi-essential in animals, and it plays important roles in various processes, such as neurodevelopment, osmotic pressure regulation, and membrane stabilization. In acute stroke, such as cerebral hemorrhage, taurine plays a neuroprotective role. However, the role of taurine after subarachnoid hemorrhage has rarely been reported. In the present study, we established a mouse model of SAH. We found that taurine administration effectively improved the sensorimotor function of these mice. In addition, taurine treatment alleviated sensorimotor neuron damage and reduced the proportion of apoptotic cells. Furthermore, taurine treatment enhanced the polarization of astrocytes toward the neuroprotective phenotype while inhibiting their polarization toward the neurotoxic phenotype. This study is the first to reveal the relationship between taurine and astrocyte polarization and may provide a new strategy for SAH research and clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunlei Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, 201107, China
- Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201107, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai, 200052, China
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Zhiwen Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, 201107, China
- Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201107, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai, 200052, China
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Xinjie Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, 201107, China
- Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201107, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai, 200052, China
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Heng Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, 201107, China
- Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201107, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai, 200052, China
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jiabin Su
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, 201107, China
- Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201107, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai, 200052, China
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Ruiyuan Weng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, 201107, China
- Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201107, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai, 200052, China
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Wei Ni
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, 201107, China.
- Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201107, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai, 200052, China.
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Yuxiang Gu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, 201107, China.
- Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201107, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai, 200052, China.
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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Qin H, Zhou L, Haque FT, Martin-Jimenez C, Trang A, Benveniste EN, Wang Q. Diverse signaling mechanisms and heterogeneity of astrocyte reactivity in Alzheimer's disease. J Neurochem 2023. [PMID: 37932959 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.16002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) affects various brain cell types, including astrocytes, which are the most abundant cell types in the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes not only provide homeostatic support to neurons but also actively regulate synaptic signaling and functions and become reactive in response to CNS insults through diverse signaling pathways including the JAK/STAT, NF-κB, and GPCR-elicited pathways. The advent of new technology for transcriptomic profiling at the single-cell level has led to increasing recognition of the highly versatile nature of reactive astrocytes and the context-dependent specificity of astrocyte reactivity. In AD, reactive astrocytes have long been observed in senile plaques and have recently been suggested to play a role in AD pathogenesis and progression. However, the precise contributions of reactive astrocytes to AD remain elusive, and targeting this complex cell population for AD treatment poses significant challenges. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of astrocyte reactivity and its role in AD, with a particular focus on the signaling pathways that promote astrocyte reactivity and the heterogeneity of reactive astrocytes. Furthermore, we explore potential implications for the development of therapeutics for AD. Our objective is to shed light on the complex involvement of astrocytes in AD and offer insights into potential therapeutic targets and strategies for treating and managing this devastating neurodegenerative disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Qin
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Lianna Zhou
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Faris T Haque
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Cynthia Martin-Jimenez
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Amy Trang
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Etty N Benveniste
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia, USA
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Wang J, Deng X, Jiang J, Yao Z, Ju Y, Luo Y. Evaluation of electroacupuncture as a non-pharmacological therapy for astrocytic structural aberrations and behavioral deficits in a post-ischemic depression model in mice. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1239024. [PMID: 37700911 PMCID: PMC10493307 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1239024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Ascending clinical evidence supports that electroacupuncture (EA) is effective in treating post-ischemic depression (PID), but little is known about how it works at the cellular level. Astrocytes are exquisitely sensitive to their extracellular environment, and under stressful conditions, they may experience aberrant structural remodeling that can potentially cause neuroplastic disturbances and contribute to subsequent changes in mood or behavior. Objectives This study aimed to investigate the effect of EA on behavioral deficits associated with PID in mice and verify the hypothesis that astrocytic morphology may be involved in this impact. Methods We established a PID animal model induced by transient bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO, 20 min) and chronic restraint stress (CRS, 21 days). EA treatment (GV20 + ST36) was performed for 3 weeks, from Monday to Friday each week. Depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors and sociability were evaluated using SPT, FST, EPM, and SIT. Immunohistochemistry combined with Sholl and cell morphological analysis was utilized to assess the process morphology of GFAP+ astrocytes in mood-related regions. The potential relationship between morphological changes in astrocytes and behavioral output was detected by correlation analysis. Results Behavioral assays demonstrated that EA treatment induced an overall reduction in behavioral deficits, as measured by the behavioral Z-score. Sholl and morphological analyses revealed that EA prevented the decline in cell complexity of astrocytes in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and the CA1 region of the hippocampus, where astrocytes displayed evident deramification and atrophy of the branches. Eventually, the correlation analysis showed there was a relationship between behavioral emotionality and morphological changes. Conclusion Our findings imply that EA prevents both behavioral deficits and structural abnormalities in astrocytes in the PID model. The strong correlation between behavioral Z-scores and the observed morphological changes confirms the notion that the weakening of astrocytic processes may play a crucial role in depressive symptoms, and astrocytes could be a potential target of EA in the treatment of PID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Laboratory Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Deng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jin Jiang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Laboratory Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhengyu Yao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Laboratory Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yaxin Ju
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Laboratory Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yong Luo
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Liu M, Zhu L, Guo YJ, Zhang SS, Jiang L, Zhang Y, Chao FL, Tang Y. The effects of voluntary running exercise on the astrocytes of the medial prefrontal cortex in APP/PS1 mice. J Comp Neurol 2023. [PMID: 37146123 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Pathological changes in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and astrocytes are closely associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Voluntary running has been found to effectively delay AD. However, the effects of voluntary running on mPFC astrocytes in AD are unclear. A total of 40 10-month-old male amyloid precursor protein/presenilin 1 (APP/PS1) mice and 40 wild-type (WT) mice were randomly divided into control and running groups, and the running groups underwent voluntary running for 3 months. Mouse cognition was assessed by the novel object recognition (NOR), Morris water maze (MWM), and Y maze tests. The effects of voluntary running on mPFC astrocytes were investigated using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, western blotting, and stereology. APP/PS1 mice performed significantly worse than WT mice in the NOR, MWM, and Y maze tests, and voluntary running improved the performance of APP/PS1 mice in these tests. The total number of mPFC astrocytes was increased, cell bodies were enlarged, and protrusion number and length were increased in AD mice compared with WT mice, but there was no difference in component 3 (C3) levels in the mPFC (total mPFC level); however, C3 and S100B levels in astrocytes were increased in AD mice. Voluntary running reduced the total number of astrocytes and S100B levels in astrocytes and increased the density of PSD95+ puncta in direct contact with astrocyte protrusions in the APP/PS1 mouse mPFC. Three months of voluntary running inhibited astrocyte hyperplasia and S100B expression in astrocytes, increased the density of synapses in contact with astrocytes, and improved cognitive function in APP/PS1 mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Liu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P. R. China
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Lin Zhu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P. R. China
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Yi-Jing Guo
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P. R. China
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Shan-Shan Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Lin Jiang
- Laboratory Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Feng-Lei Chao
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P. R. China
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Yong Tang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P. R. China
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P. R. China
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Monteiro AR, Barbosa DJ, Remião F, Silva R. Alzheimer’s disease: insights and new prospects in disease pathophysiology, biomarkers and disease-modifying drugs. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 211:115522. [PMID: 36996971 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases that affect millions of people worldwide, with both prevalence and incidence increasing with age. It is characterized by cognitive decline associated, specifically, with degeneration of cholinergic neurons. The problem of this disease is even more fundamental as the available therapies remain fairly limited and mainly focused on symptoms' relief. Although the aetiology of the disease remains elusive, two main pathological hallmarks are described: i) presence of neurofibrillary tangles formed by unfolded protein aggregates (hyperphosphorylated Tau protein) and ii) presence of extracellular aggregates of amyloid-beta peptide. Given the complexity surrounding the pathogenesis of the disease, several potential targets have been highlighted and interrelated upon its progression, such as oxidative stress and the accumulation of metal ions. Thus, advances have been made on the development of innovative multitarget therapeutical compounds to delay the disease progression and restore cell function. This review focuses the ongoing research on new insights and emerging disease-modifying drugs for AD treatment. Furthermore, classical and novel potential biomarkers for early diagnosis of the disease, and their role in assisting on the improvement of targeted therapies will also be approached.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana R Monteiro
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Porto University, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Daniel J Barbosa
- TOXRUN - Toxicology Research Unit, Department of Sciences, University Institute of Health Sciences, CESPU, CRL, Gandra, Portugal; Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernando Remião
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Porto University, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Renata Silva
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Porto University, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
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Shen Z, Li ZY, Yu MT, Tan KL, Chen S. Metabolic perspective of astrocyte dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes brains. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114206. [PMID: 36916433 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The term type III diabetes (T3DM) has been proposed for Alzheimer's disease (AD) due to the shared molecular and cellular features between type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and insulin resistance-associated memory deficits and cognitive decline in elderly individuals. Astrocytes elicit neuroprotective or deleterious effects in AD progression and severity. Patients with T2DM are at a high risk of cognitive impairment, and targeting astrocytes might be promising in alleviating neurodegeneration in the diabetic brain. Recent studies focusing on cell-specific activities in the brain have revealed the important role of astrocytes in brain metabolism (e.g., glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism), neurovascular coupling, synapses, and synaptic plasticity. In this review, we discuss how astrocytes and their dysfunction result in multiple pathological and clinical features of AD and T2DM from a metabolic perspective and the potential comorbid mechanism in these two diseases from the perspective of astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Shen
- Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519041, China
| | - Zheng-Yang Li
- Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519041, China
| | - Meng-Ting Yu
- Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519041, China
| | - Kai-Leng Tan
- Institute of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China.
| | - Si Chen
- Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519041, China.
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8
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Zhu X, Schrader JM, Irizarry BA, Smith SO, Van Nostrand WE. Impact of Aβ40 and Aβ42 Fibrils on the Transcriptome of Primary Astrocytes and Microglia. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10112982. [PMID: 36428550 PMCID: PMC9688026 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10112982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrillar amyloid β-protein (Aβ) deposits in the brain, which are primarily composed of Aβ40 or Aβ42 peptides, are key pathological features of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related disorders. Although the underlying mechanisms are still not clear, the Aβ fibrils can trigger a number of cellular responses, including activation of astrocytes and microglia. In addition, fibril structures of the Aβ40 and Aβ42 peptides are known to be polymorphic, which poses a challenge for attributing the contribution of different Aβ sequences and structures to brain pathology. Here, we systematically treated primary astrocytes and microglia with single, well-characterized polymorphs of Aβ40 or Aβ42 fibrils, and performed bulk RNA sequencing to assess cell-specific changes in gene expression. A greater number of genes were up-regulated by Aβ42 fibril-treated glial cells (251 and 2133 genes in astrocyte and microglia, respectively) compared with the Aβ40 fibril-treated glial cells (191 and 251 genes in astrocytes and microglia, respectively). Immunolabeling studies in an AD rat model with parenchymal fibrillar Aβ42 plaques confirmed the expression of PAI-1, MMP9, MMP12, CCL2, and C1r in plaque-associated microglia, and iNOS, GBP2, and C3D in plaque-associated astrocytes, validating markers from the RNA sequence data. In order to better understand these Aβ fibril-induced gene changes, we analyzed gene expression patterns using the Ingenuity pathway analysis program. These analyses further highlighted that Aβ42 fibril treatment up-regulated cellular activation pathways and immune response pathways in glial cells, including IL1β and TNFα in astrocytes, and microglial activation and TGFβ1 in microglia. Further analysis revealed that a number of disease-associated microglial (DAM) genes were surprisingly suppressed in Aβ40 fibril treated microglia. Together, the present findings indicate that Aβ42 fibrils generally show similar, but stronger, stimulating activity of glial cells compared with Aβ40 fibril treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyue Zhu
- George and Anne Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Joseph M. Schrader
- George and Anne Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Brandon A. Irizarry
- Center for Structural Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Steven O. Smith
- Center for Structural Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - William E. Van Nostrand
- George and Anne Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-401-874-2363
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Fan YY, Huo J. A1/A2 astrocytes in central nervous system injuries and diseases: Angels or devils? Neurochem Int 2021; 148:105080. [PMID: 34048845 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes play a pivotal role in maintaining the central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis and function. In response to CNS injuries and diseases, reactive astrocytes are triggered. By purifying and genetically profiling reactive astrocytes, it has been now found that astrocytes can be activated into two polarization states: the neurotoxic or pro-inflammatory phenotype (A1) and the neuroprotective or anti-inflammatory phenotype (A2). Although the simple dichotomy of the A1/A2 phenotypes does not reflect the wide range of astrocytic phenotypes, it facilitates our understanding of the reactive state of astrocytes in various CNS disorders. This article reviews the recent evidences regarding A1/A2 astrocytes, including (a) the specific markers and morphological characteristics, (b) the effects of A1/A2 astrocytes on the neurovascular unit, and (c) the molecular mechanisms involved in the phenotypic switch of astrocytes. Although many questions remain, a deeper understanding of different phenotypic astrocytes will eventually help us to explore effective strategies for neurological disorders by targeting astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ying Fan
- Department of Pharmacology, Basic Medical Sciences Center, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China; Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Ministry of Education, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China.
| | - Jing Huo
- Department of Pharmacology, Basic Medical Sciences Center, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China; Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, China
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Klegeris A. Targeting neuroprotective functions of astrocytes in neuroimmune diseases. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2021; 25:237-241. [PMID: 33836642 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2021.1915993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andis Klegeris
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
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