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Jin P, Li Y, Li Y. Meta-analysis of the association between C9orf72 repeats and neurodegeneration diseases. J Neurogenet 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38767957 DOI: 10.1080/01677063.2024.2343672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
To conduct a meta-analysis investigating the relationship between the chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9orf72) GGGGCC (G4C2) and neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), multiple system atrophy (MSA), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and corticobasal degeneration (CBD). We searched the EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases. Twenty-seven case-control studies were included, comprising 7202 AD, 5856 PD, 644 MSA, 439 PSP, and 477 CBD cases. This study demonstrated that C9orf72 repeat expansions (>30) were associated with AD, MSA, PSP, and CBD (AD: OR = 4.88, 95% CI = 2.71-8.78; MSA: OR = 6.98, 95% CI = 1.48-33.01; PSP: OR =10.04, 95% CI = 2.72-37.10; CBD: OR = 28.04, 95% CI = 10.17-77.31). C9orf72 intermediate repeat expansions (20-30) were not associated with AD and MSA (AD: OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 0.39-3.45; MSA: OR = 5.65, 95% CI = 0.69-46.19), while C9orf72 repeat expansions (>30) were not associated with the risk of PD (OR = 1.51, 95% CI = 0.55-4.17), C9orf72 intermediate repeat expansions (20-30) were indeed associated with PD (OR = 2.43, 95% CI = 1.20-4.9). The pathological mechanism of C9orf72 G4C2 repeat expansions differs across various NDs due to the varying number of pathogenic expansions. Measuring the number of C9orf72 G4C2 repeats may be useful in the early-stage differential diagnosis of various NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingfei Jin
- Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yong Li
- Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yao Li
- Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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2
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Cacace R, Zhou L, Hendrickx Van de Craen E, Buist A, Hoogmartens J, Sieben A, Cras P, Vandenberghe R, De Deyn PP, Oehlrich D, De Bondt A, Engelborghs S, Moechars D, Van Broeckhoven C. Mutated Toll-like receptor 9 increases Alzheimer's disease risk by compromising innate immunity protection. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:5380-5389. [PMID: 37433968 PMCID: PMC11041692 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02166-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
The development of Alzheimer's disease (AD) involves central and peripheral immune deregulation. Gene identification and studies of AD genetic variants of peripheral immune components may aid understanding of peripheral-central immune crosstalk and facilitate new opportunities for therapeutic intervention. In this study, we have identified in a Flanders-Belgian family a novel variant p.E317D in the Toll-like receptor 9 gene (TLR9), co-segregating with EOAD in an autosomal dominant manner. In human, TLR9 is an essential innate and adaptive immune component predominantly expressed in peripheral immune cells. The p.E317D variant caused 50% reduction in TLR9 activation in the NF-κB luciferase assay suggesting that p.E317D is a loss-of-function mutation. Cytokine profiling of human PBMCs upon TLR9 activation revealed a predominantly anti-inflammatory response in contrast to the inflammatory responses from TLR7/8 activation. The cytokines released upon TLR9 activation suppressed inflammation and promoted phagocytosis of Aβ42 oligomers in human iPSC-derived microglia. Transcriptome analysis identified upregulation of AXL, RUBICON and associated signaling pathways, which may underline the effects of TLR9 signaling-induced cytokines in regulating the inflammatory status and phagocytic property of microglia. Our data suggest a protective role of TLR9 signaling in AD pathogenesis, and we propose that TLR9 loss-of-function may disrupt a peripheral-central immune crosstalk that promotes dampening of inflammation and clearance of toxic protein species, leading to the build-up of neuroinflammation and pathogenic protein aggregates in AD development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Cacace
- Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Lujia Zhou
- Department of Neuroscience, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Elisabeth Hendrickx Van de Craen
- Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Arjan Buist
- Department of Neuroscience, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Julie Hoogmartens
- Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Anne Sieben
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Patrick Cras
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
- Institute Born-Bunge, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Rik Vandenberghe
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, and Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Peter P De Deyn
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Institute Born-Bunge, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Neurology and Memory Clinic, Hospital Network Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Daniel Oehlrich
- Discovery Sciences, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - An De Bondt
- Discovery Sciences, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Sebastiaan Engelborghs
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, and Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Diederik Moechars
- Department of Neuroscience, Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Christine Van Broeckhoven
- Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, Antwerp, Belgium.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
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3
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Kortazar-Zubizarreta I, Manero-Azua A, Afonso-Agüera J, Perez de Nanclares G. C9ORF72 Gene GGGGCC Hexanucleotide Expansion: A High Clinical Variability from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis to Frontotemporal Dementia. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1396. [PMID: 37763163 PMCID: PMC10532825 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13091396] [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: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The expanded GGGGCC hexanucleotide repeat (HRE) in the non-coding region of the C9ORF72 gene (C9ORF72-HRE) is the most common genetic cause of familial forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), FTD, and concurrent ALS and FTD (ALS-FTD), in addition to contributing to the sporadic forms of these diseases. Both syndromes overlap not only genetically, but also sharing similar clinical and neuropathological findings, being considered as a spectrum. In this paper we describe the clinical-genetic findings in a Basque family with different manifestations within the spectrum, our difficulties in reaching the diagnosis, and a narrative review, carried out as a consequence, of the main features associated with C9ORF72-HRE. Family members underwent a detailed clinical assessment, neurological examination, and genetic analysis by repeat-primed PCR. We studied 10 relatives of a symptomatic carrier of the C9ORF72-HRE expansion. Two of them presented the expansion in the pathological range, one of them was symptomatic whereas the other one remained asymptomatic at 72 years. Given the great intrafamilial clinical variability of C9ORF72-HRE, the characterization of patients and family members with particular clinical and genetic subgroups within ALS and FTD becomes a bottleneck for medication development, in particular for genetically focused medicines for ALS and FTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izaro Kortazar-Zubizarreta
- Department of Neurology, Bioaraba Health Research Institute, Araba University Hospital-Txagorritxu, 01009 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Africa Manero-Azua
- Molecular (Epi) Genetics Laboratory, Bioaraba Health Research Institute, Araba University Hospital, 01009 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (A.M.-A.); (G.P.d.N.)
| | - Juan Afonso-Agüera
- Department of Neurology, Central University Hospital of Asturias, 33006 Oviedo, Spain;
| | - Guiomar Perez de Nanclares
- Molecular (Epi) Genetics Laboratory, Bioaraba Health Research Institute, Araba University Hospital, 01009 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (A.M.-A.); (G.P.d.N.)
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4
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Vinceti G, Gallingani C, Zucchi E, Martinelli I, Gianferrari G, Simonini C, Bedin R, Chiari A, Zamboni G, Mandrioli J. Young Onset Alzheimer's Disease Associated with C9ORF72 Hexanucleotide Expansion: Further Evidence for a Still Unsolved Association. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14040930. [PMID: 37107688 PMCID: PMC10138077 DOI: 10.3390/genes14040930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are recognized as part of a disease continuum (FTD-ALS spectrum), in which the most common genetic cause is chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9ORF72) gene hexanucleotide repeat expansion. The clinical phenotype of patients carrying this expansion varies widely and includes diseases beyond the FTD-ALS spectrum. Although a few cases of patients with C9ORF72 expansion and a clinical or biomarker-supported diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) have been described, they have been considered too sparse to establish a definite association between the C9ORF72 expansion and AD pathology. Here, we describe a C9ORF72 family with pleomorphic phenotypical expressions: a 54-year-old woman showing cognitive impairment and behavioral disturbances with both neuroimaging and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers consistent with AD pathology, her 49-year-old brother with typical FTD-ALS, and their 63-year-old mother with the behavioral variant of FTD and CSF biomarkers suggestive of AD pathology. The young onset of disease in all three family members and their different phenotypes and biomarker profiles make the simple co-occurrence of different diseases an extremely unlikely explanation. Our report adds to previous findings and may contribute to further expanding the spectrum of diseases associated with C9ORF72 expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Vinceti
- Neurology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Chiara Gallingani
- Neurology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Zucchi
- Neurology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Ilaria Martinelli
- Neurology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Gianferrari
- Neurology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Cecilia Simonini
- Neurology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Roberta Bedin
- Neurology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Annalisa Chiari
- Neurology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Giovanna Zamboni
- Neurology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Jessica Mandrioli
- Neurology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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Zhang Y, Xue Y, Wang L, Han Z, Wang T, Zhang H, Liu G, Xiao X. rs56405341 Variant Associates with Expression of C4orf33 and C4orf33 Was Downregulated in Alzheimer's Disease and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 96:57-64. [PMID: 37742642 DOI: 10.3233/jad-230327] [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] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
The first primary age-related tauopathy (PART) genome-wide association study confirmed significant associations of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) genetic variants with PART, and highlighted a novel genetic variant rs56405341. Here, we perform a comprehensive analysis of rs56405341. We found that rs56405341 was significantly associated with C4orf33 mRNA expression, but not JADE1 mRNA expression in multiple brain tissues. C4orf33 was mainly expressed in cerebellar hemisphere and cerebellum, and JADE1 was mainly expressed in thyroid, and coronary artery. Meanwhile, we found significantly downregulated C4orf33 expression both AD and PSP compared with normal controls, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Yanli Xue
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Longcai Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Zhifa Han
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
| | - Haihua Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Ministry of Science and Technology, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Guiyou Liu
- Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Ministry of Science and Technology, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Cerebral Microcirculation in Universities of Shandong; Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital; Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, Shandong, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxia Translational Medicine, National Engineering Laboratory of Internet Medical Diagnosis and Treatment Technology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xingjun Xiao
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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6
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Li P, Y Y, Cai H, Zhang H, Zhou Y. Case analysis of early-onset Alzheimer's disease associated with TBK1 p.Tyr235Phe gene mutation. Front Neurol 2022; 13:993399. [DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.993399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
TANK1-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) is mainly involved in the regulation of various cellular pathways through the autophagic lysosomal system, and the loss of function or hypofunction caused by TBK1 gene mutation mainly leads to frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and ALS-FTLD. Alzheimer's disease (AD) due to TBK1 gene mutation is extremely rare, and only one case has been reported in China so far. In this report, we described a patient with early-onset AD (EOAD) in whom a new probable pathogenic variant c.704A>T (p.Tyr235Phe) in the TBK1 gene was identified by a whole-genome sequencing analysis. It is suggested that FTLD gene mutation may exist in patients with clinical manifestations of AD.
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7
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König T, Wurm R, Parvizi T, Silvaieh S, Hotzy C, Cetin H, Klotz S, Gelpi E, Bancher C, Benke T, Dal-Bianco P, Defrancesco M, Fischer P, Marksteiner J, Sutterlüty H, Ransmayr G, Schmidt R, Zimprich A, Stögmann E. C9orf72 repeat length might influence clinical sub-phenotypes in dementia patients. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 175:105927. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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8
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Zampatti S, Peconi C, Campopiano R, Gambardella S, Caltagirone C, Giardina E. C9orf72-Related Neurodegenerative Diseases: From Clinical Diagnosis to Therapeutic Strategies. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:907122. [PMID: 35754952 PMCID: PMC9226392 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.907122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hexanucleotide expansion in C9orf72 has been related to several phenotypes to date, complicating the clinical recognition of these neurodegenerative disorders. An early diagnosis can improve the management of patients, promoting early administration of therapeutic supportive strategies. Here, we report known clinical presentations of C9orf72-related neurodegenerative disorders, pointing out suggestive phenotypes that can benefit the genetic characterization of patients. Considering the high variability of C9orf72-related disorder, frequent and rare manifestations are described, with detailed clinical, instrumental evaluation, and supportive therapeutical approaches. Furthermore, to improve the understanding of molecular pathways of the disease and potential therapeutical targets, a detailed description of the cellular mechanisms related to the pathological effect of C9orf72 is reported. New promising therapeutical strategies and ongoing studies are reported highlighting their molecular role in cellular pathological pathways of C9orf72. These therapeutic approaches are particularly promising because they seem to stop the disease before neuronal damage. The knowledge of clinical and molecular features of C9orf72-related neurodegenerative disorders improves the therapeutical application of known strategies and will lay the basis for the development of new potential therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Zampatti
- Genomic Medicine Laboratory UILDM, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Peconi
- Genomic Medicine Laboratory UILDM, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Gambardella
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy.,Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy
| | - Carlo Caltagirone
- Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Emiliano Giardina
- Genomic Medicine Laboratory UILDM, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy.,Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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9
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Zanella I, Zacchi E, Fornari C, Fumarola B, Antoni MD, Zizioli D, Quiros-Roldan E. An exploratory pilot study on the involvement of APOE, HFE, C9ORF72 variants and comorbidities in neurocognitive and physical performance in a group of HIV-infected people. Metab Brain Dis 2022; 37:1569-1583. [PMID: 35353274 PMCID: PMC8964929 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-022-00975-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive decline of aging is modulated by chronic inflammation and comorbidities. In people with HIV-infection (PWH) it may also be affected by HIV-induced inflammation, lifestyle and long-term effects of antiretroviral therapies (ART). The role of genetics in the susceptibility to HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) is not fully understood. Here we explored the possible relations among variants in 3 genes involved in inflammation and neurodegenerative disorders (APOE: ε2/ε3/ε4; HFE: H63D; C9ORF72: hexanucleotide expansions ≥ 9 repeats), cognitive/functional impairment (MiniMental State Examination MMSE, Clock Drawing Test CDT, Short Physical Performance Battery SPPB), comorbidities and HIV-related variables in a cohort of > 50 years old PWH (n = 60) with at least 10 years efficient ART. Patients with diabetes or hypertension showed significantly lower MMSE (p = .031) or SPPB (p = .010) scores, respectively, while no relations between HIV-related variables and cognitive/functional scores were observed. Patients with at least one APOEε3 allele had higher CDT scores (p = .019), APOEε2/ε4 patients showing the lowest scores in all tests. Patients with HFE-H63D variant showed more frequently hypertriglyceridemia (p = .023) and those harboring C9ORF72 expansions > 9 repeats had higher CD4+-cell counts (p = .032) and CD4% (p = .041). Multiple linear regression analysis computed to verify possible associations among cognitive/functional scores and all variables further suggested positive association between higher CDT scores and the presence of at least one APOEε3 allele (2,2; 95% CI [0,03 0,8]; p = .037), independent of other variables, although the model did not reach the statistical significance (p = .14). These data suggest that in PWH on efficient ART cognitive abilities and physical performances may be partly associated with comorbidities and genetic background. However, further analyses are needed to establish whether they could be also dependent and influenced by comorbidities and genetic background.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Zanella
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
- Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics Section, Diagnostic Department, ASST Spedali Civili Di Brescia, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Eliana Zacchi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25123, Brescia, Italy
- Division of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, ASST Spedali Civili Di Brescia, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Chiara Fornari
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25123, Brescia, Italy
- Division of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, ASST Spedali Civili Di Brescia, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Benedetta Fumarola
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25123, Brescia, Italy
- Division of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, ASST Spedali Civili Di Brescia, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Melania Degli Antoni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25123, Brescia, Italy
- Division of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, ASST Spedali Civili Di Brescia, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Daniela Zizioli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Quiros-Roldan
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25123, Brescia, Italy
- Division of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, ASST Spedali Civili Di Brescia, 25123, Brescia, Italy
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10
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Lall D, Lorenzini I, Mota TA, Bell S, Mahan TE, Ulrich JD, Davtyan H, Rexach JE, Muhammad AKMG, Shelest O, Landeros J, Vazquez M, Kim J, Ghaffari L, O'Rourke JG, Geschwind DH, Blurton-Jones M, Holtzman DM, Sattler R, Baloh RH. C9orf72 deficiency promotes microglial-mediated synaptic loss in aging and amyloid accumulation. Neuron 2021; 109:2275-2291.e8. [PMID: 34133945 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2021.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
C9orf72 repeat expansions cause inherited amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)/frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and result in both loss of C9orf72 protein expression and production of potentially toxic RNA and dipeptide repeat proteins. In addition to ALS/FTD, C9orf72 repeat expansions have been reported in a broad array of neurodegenerative syndromes, including Alzheimer's disease. Here we show that C9orf72 deficiency promotes a change in the homeostatic signature in microglia and a transition to an inflammatory state characterized by an enhanced type I IFN signature. Furthermore, C9orf72-depleted microglia trigger age-dependent neuronal defects, in particular enhanced cortical synaptic pruning, leading to altered learning and memory behaviors in mice. Interestingly, C9orf72-deficient microglia promote enhanced synapse loss and neuronal deficits in a mouse model of amyloid accumulation while paradoxically improving plaque clearance. These findings suggest that altered microglial function due to decreased C9orf72 expression directly contributes to neurodegeneration in repeat expansion carriers independent of gain-of-function toxicities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepti Lall
- Center for Neural Science and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Ileana Lorenzini
- Department of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, 350 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA
| | - Thomas A Mota
- Center for Neural Science and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Shaughn Bell
- Center for Neural Science and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Thomas E Mahan
- Department of Neurology, Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Jason D Ulrich
- Department of Neurology, Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Hayk Davtyan
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, 3200 Gross Hall, 845 Health Sciences Road, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Jessica E Rexach
- Program in Neurogenetics, Department of Neurology, Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - A K M Ghulam Muhammad
- Center for Neural Science and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Oksana Shelest
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Jesse Landeros
- Center for Neural Science and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Michael Vazquez
- Center for Neural Science and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Junwon Kim
- Department of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, 350 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA
| | - Layla Ghaffari
- Department of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, 350 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA
| | - Jacqueline Gire O'Rourke
- Center for Neural Science and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Daniel H Geschwind
- Program in Neurogenetics, Department of Neurology, Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Mathew Blurton-Jones
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, 3200 Gross Hall, 845 Health Sciences Road, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - David M Holtzman
- Department of Neurology, Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Rita Sattler
- Department of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, 350 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA.
| | - Robert H Baloh
- Center for Neural Science and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA; Department of Neurology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA.
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11
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Chua JP, De Calbiac H, Kabashi E, Barmada SJ. Autophagy and ALS: mechanistic insights and therapeutic implications. Autophagy 2021; 18:254-282. [PMID: 34057020 PMCID: PMC8942428 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2021.1926656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanisms of protein homeostasis are crucial for overseeing the clearance of misfolded and toxic proteins over the lifetime of an organism, thereby ensuring the health of neurons and other cells of the central nervous system. The highly conserved pathway of autophagy is particularly necessary for preventing and counteracting pathogenic insults that may lead to neurodegeneration. In line with this, mutations in genes that encode essential autophagy factors result in impaired autophagy and lead to neurodegenerative conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, the mechanistic details underlying the neuroprotective role of autophagy, neuronal resistance to autophagy induction, and the neuron-specific effects of autophagy-impairing mutations remain incompletely defined. Further, the manner and extent to which non-cell autonomous effects of autophagy dysfunction contribute to ALS pathogenesis are not fully understood. Here, we review the current understanding of the interplay between autophagy and ALS pathogenesis by providing an overview of critical steps in the autophagy pathway, with special focus on pivotal factors impaired by ALS-causing mutations, their physiologic effects on autophagy in disease models, and the cell type-specific mechanisms regulating autophagy in non-neuronal cells which, when impaired, can contribute to neurodegeneration. This review thereby provides a framework not only to guide further investigations of neuronal autophagy but also to refine therapeutic strategies for ALS and related neurodegenerative diseases.Abbreviations: ALS: amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; Atg: autophagy-related; CHMP2B: charged multivesicular body protein 2B; DPR: dipeptide repeat; FTD: frontotemporal dementia; iPSC: induced pluripotent stem cell; LIR: LC3-interacting region; MAP1LC3/LC3: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3; MTOR: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase; PINK1: PTEN induced kinase 1; RNP: ribonuclear protein; sALS: sporadic ALS; SPHK1: sphingosine kinase 1; TARDBP/TDP-43: TAR DNA binding protein; TBK1: TANK-binding kinase 1; TFEB: transcription factor EB; ULK: unc-51 like autophagy activating kinase; UPR: unfolded protein response; UPS: ubiquitin-proteasome system; VCP: valosin containing protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason P Chua
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Hortense De Calbiac
- Recherche translationnelle sur les maladies neurologiques, Institut Imagine, UMR-1163 INSERM et Université Paris Descartes, Hôpital Universitaire Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Edor Kabashi
- Recherche translationnelle sur les maladies neurologiques, Institut Imagine, UMR-1163 INSERM et Université Paris Descartes, Hôpital Universitaire Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Sami J Barmada
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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12
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van der Ende EL, Jackson JL, White A, Seelaar H, van Blitterswijk M, Van Swieten JC. Unravelling the clinical spectrum and the role of repeat length in C9ORF72 repeat expansions. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2021; 92:502-509. [PMID: 33452054 PMCID: PMC8053328 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2020-325377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Since the discovery of the C9orf72 repeat expansion as the most common genetic cause of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, it has increasingly been associated with a wider spectrum of phenotypes, including other types of dementia, movement disorders, psychiatric symptoms and slowly progressive FTD. Prompt recognition of patients with C9orf72-associated diseases is essential in light of upcoming clinical trials. The striking clinical heterogeneity associated with C9orf72 repeat expansions remains largely unexplained. In contrast to other repeat expansion disorders, evidence for an effect of repeat length on phenotype is inconclusive. Patients with C9orf72-associated diseases typically have very long repeat expansions, containing hundreds to thousands of GGGGCC-repeats, but smaller expansions might also have clinical significance. The exact threshold at which repeat expansions lead to neurodegeneration is unknown, and discordant cut-offs between laboratories pose a challenge for genetic counselling. Accurate and large-scale measurement of repeat expansions has been severely hindered by technical difficulties in sizing long expansions and by variable repeat lengths across and within tissues. Novel long-read sequencing approaches have produced promising results and open up avenues to further investigate this enthralling repeat expansion, elucidating whether its length, purity, and methylation pattern might modulate clinical features of C9orf72-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L van der Ende
- Department of Neurology and Alzheimer Center, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Adrianna White
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA.,Department of Biology, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Harro Seelaar
- Department of Neurology and Alzheimer Center, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marka van Blitterswijk
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA.,Department of Biology, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - John C Van Swieten
- Department of Neurology and Alzheimer Center, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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13
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Serpente M, Fenoglio C, Arighi A, Fumagalli GG, Arcaro M, Sorrentino F, Visconte C, Scarpini E, Galimberti D. Analysis of C9orf72 Intermediate Alleles in a Retrospective Cohort of Neurological Patients: Risk Factors for Alzheimer's Disease? J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 81:1445-1451. [PMID: 33935096 DOI: 10.3233/jad-210249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND C9orf72 hexanucleotide GGGGCC (G4C2) large repeat expansions within the first intron of the gene are a major cause of familial frontotemporal dementia, but also of apparently sporadic cases. Alleles with > 30 repeats are often considered pathogenic, but the repeat length threshold is still undefined. It is also unclear if C9orf72 intermediate alleles (9-30 repeats) have clinically significant effects. OBJECTIVES We correlated the presence of C9orf72 intermediate alleles with clinical diagnoses in a perspective cohort referred to a secondary memory clinic. METHODS All samples were genotyped with AmplideXPCR/CE C9ORF72 Kit (Asuragen, Inc), an optimized C9orf72 PCR amplification reagent. RESULTS We showed that in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) the frequency of the intermediate repeat alleles was significantly increased versus controls (34/54, 63%AD versus 16/39, 41%CTRLs, *p = 0.01, OR 2.91 CI 95%1.230-6.077), whereas no significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed when comparing all other dementias with non-demented individuals. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that C9orf72 intermediate repeat units may represent a genetic risk factor, contributing to the occurrence of AD. Nevertheless, further longitudinal studies, including larger cohort of subjects with intermediate alleles with long-term follow-up, would be needed to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Serpente
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Dino Ferrari Center, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Arighi
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Marina Arcaro
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Elio Scarpini
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Dino Ferrari Center, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Galimberti
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Dino Ferrari Center, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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14
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Clinical Update on C9orf72: Frontotemporal Dementia, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, and Beyond. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1281:67-76. [PMID: 33433869 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-51140-1_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The identification of C9orf72 gene has led to important scientific progresses and has considerably changed our clinical practice. However, a decade after C9orf72 discovery, some important clinical questions remain unsolved. The reliable cutoff for the pathogenic repeat number and the implication of intermediate alleles in frontotemporal dementia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or in other diseases are still uncertain. The occurrence of an anticipation phenomenon - at the clinical and molecular levels - in C9orf72 kindreds is still debated as well, and the factors driving age at onset and phenotype variability are largely unknown. All these questions have a significant impact not only in clinical practice for diagnosis and genetic counseling but also in a research context for the initiation of therapeutic trials. In this chapter, we will address all those issues and summarize the recent updates about clinical aspects of C9orf72 disease, focusing on both the common and the less typical phenotypes.
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15
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Xu X, Su Y, Zou Z, Zhou Y, Yan J. Correlation between C9ORF72 mutation and neurodegenerative diseases: A comprehensive review of the literature. Int J Med Sci 2021; 18:378-386. [PMID: 33390807 PMCID: PMC7757155 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.53550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9ORF72) encodes a 54-kDa protein with unknown function that is expressed at high levels in the central nervous system. The C9ORF72 hexanucleotide amplification is one of the most recently discovered repetitive amplification diseases related to neurodegeneration. Its association with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/frontotemporal dementia (ALS/FTD) spectrum diseases has been fully established, although a causative role for C9ORF72 in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) remains to be established. Therefore, in this article, we will review the evidence for C9ORF72 as a causative factor in neurodegenerative diseases, the underlying mechanisms, and the potential for targeting C9ORF72 as a strategy to alleviate neurodegenerative disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingfeng Xu
- Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, Guangxi, China.,Guangxi Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Neuroscience, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, Guangxi, China
| | - Yan Su
- Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, Guangxi, China.,Guangxi Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Neuroscience, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, Guangxi, China
| | - Zhenyou Zou
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Neuroscience, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, Guangxi, China
| | - Yali Zhou
- Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, Guangxi, China
| | - Jianguo Yan
- Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, Guangxi, China.,Guangxi Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Neuroscience, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541004, Guangxi, China
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16
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Van Mossevelde S, Engelborghs S, van der Zee J, Van Broeckhoven C. Genotype-phenotype links in frontotemporal lobar degeneration. Nat Rev Neurol 2019; 14:363-378. [PMID: 29777184 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-018-0009-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) represents a group of neurodegenerative brain diseases with highly heterogeneous clinical, neuropathological and genetic characteristics. This high degree of heterogeneity results from the presence of several different underlying molecular disease processes; consequently, it is unlikely that all patients with FTLD will benefit from a single therapy. Therapeutic strategies for FTLD are currently being explored, and tools are urgently needed that enable the selection of patients who are the most likely to benefit from a particular therapy. Definition of the phenotypic characteristics in patients with different FTLD subtypes that share the same underlying disease processes would assist in the stratification of patients into homogeneous groups. The most common subtype of FTLD is characterized by TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP43) pathology (FTLD-TDP). In this group, pathogenic mutations have been identified in four genes: C9orf72, GRN, TBK1 and VCP. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the phenotypic characteristics of patients with FTLD-TDP, highlighting shared features and differences among groups of patients who have a pathogenic mutation in one of these four genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Van Mossevelde
- Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases Group, VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology, Antwerp, Belgium.,Institute Born-Bunge, UAntwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Neurology and Memory Clinic, Hospital Network Antwerp, Middelheim and Hoge Beuken, Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Neurology and Memory Clinic, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Sebastiaan Engelborghs
- Institute Born-Bunge, UAntwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Neurology and Memory Clinic, Hospital Network Antwerp, Middelheim and Hoge Beuken, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Julie van der Zee
- Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases Group, VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology, Antwerp, Belgium.,Institute Born-Bunge, UAntwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Christine Van Broeckhoven
- Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases Group, VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology, Antwerp, Belgium. .,Institute Born-Bunge, UAntwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
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17
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Nacmias B, Bagnoli S, Piaceri I, Sorbi S. Genetic Heterogeneity of Alzheimer's Disease: Embracing Research Partnerships. J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 62:903-911. [PMID: 29103034 PMCID: PMC5870047 DOI: 10.3233/jad-170570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Studies on the genetics of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have revealed the complexity and heterogeneity of the disease. All our studies have supported this evidence and contribute to the current understanding of the genetic architecture of AD. This report reviews the success of our investigations, focusing on the implications and importance of the genetics of AD, and demonstrates the relevance of research strategies embracing partnerships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Nacmias
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Silvia Bagnoli
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Irene Piaceri
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sandro Sorbi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,IRCCS Don Gnocchi, Florence, Italy
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18
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Fredi M, Cavazzana I, Biasiotto G, Filosto M, Padovani A, Monti E, Tincani A, Franceschini F, Zanella I. C9orf72 Intermediate Alleles in Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Neuromolecular Med 2019; 21:150-159. [PMID: 30859373 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-019-08528-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The commonest genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a large hexanucleotide expansion within the non-coding region of the C9orf72 gene. The pathogenic mechanisms of the mutation seem toxic gain of functions, while haploinsufficiency alone appears insufficient to cause neurodegeneration. C9orf72-/- mice rather develop features of autoimmunity. Immune-mediated dysfunctions are involved in the pathogenesis of ALS and FTD and high prevalence of autoimmune disease has recently been observed in C9orf72 expansion-positive patients. Since intermediate repeat expansions result in decreased transcription of the gene, we explored the hypothesis that C9orf72 intermediate alleles could be a genetic risk for autoimmune conditions. We genotyped 69 systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and 77 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, with 68 expansion-negative ALS patients, as control. A cut-off of ≥ 9 and ≤ 30 hexanucleotide units was chosen to define intermediate-length expansions. In the SLE and SLE + RA cohorts, both the number of patients with intermediate expansions and the overall number of intermediate alleles were significantly higher than in controls (23.2% vs. 7.4%, p = 0.020; 13.8% vs. 3.7%, p = 0.006, and 19.9% vs. 7.4%, p = 0.033, 11% vs. 3.7%, p = 0.021, respectively) and discernible although non-significant differences were found for the RA only cohort. Three SLE patients had intermediate-length expansions on both alleles, two of them harboring sequence variations within the hexanucleotide downstream region. However, no peculiar clinical features associated with the intermediate expansion were identified. Our results suggest that C9orf72 intermediate alleles could be associated with systemic autoimmune diseases, indicating a role of C9orf72 in immunity regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micaela Fredi
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Unit, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Ilaria Cavazzana
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Biasiotto
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, Diagnostic Department, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Padovani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Neurology Unit, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Eugenio Monti
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Angela Tincani
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Unit, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Franco Franceschini
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Unit, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Isabella Zanella
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, Diagnostic Department, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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19
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Kaivola K, Kiviharju A, Jansson L, Rantalainen V, Eriksson JG, Strandberg TE, Laaksovirta H, Renton AE, Traynor BJ, Myllykangas L, Tienari PJ. C9orf72 hexanucleotide repeat length in older population: normal variation and effects on cognition. Neurobiol Aging 2019; 84:242.e7-242.e12. [PMID: 30979436 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2019.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The hexanucleotide repeat expansion in C9orf72 is a common cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/frontotemporal dementia and also rarely found in other psychiatric and neurodegenerative conditions. Alleles with >30 repeats are often considered an expansion, but the pathogenic repeat length threshold is still unclear. It is also unclear whether intermediate repeat length alleles (often defined either as 7-30 or 20-30 repeats) have clinically significant effects. We determined the C9orf72 repeat length distribution in 3142 older Finns (aged 60-104 years). The longest nonexpanded allele was 45 repeats. We found 7-45 repeats in 1036/3142 (33%) individuals, 20-45 repeats in 56/3142 (1.8%), 30-45 repeats in 12/3142 (0.38%), and expansion (>45 repeats) in 6/3142 (0.19%). There was no apparent clustering of neurodegenerative or psychiatric diseases in individuals with 30-45 repeats indicating that 30-45 repeats are not pathogenic. None of the 6 expansion carriers had a diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/frontotemporal dementia but 4 had a diagnosis of a neurodegenerative or psychiatric disease. Intermediate length alleles (categorized as 7-45 and 20-45 repeats) did not associate with Alzheimer's disease or cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karri Kaivola
- Molecular Neurology, Research Programs Unit, Department of Neurology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Anna Kiviharju
- Molecular Neurology, Research Programs Unit, Department of Neurology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Lilja Jansson
- Molecular Neurology, Research Programs Unit, Department of Neurology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ville Rantalainen
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Johan G Eriksson
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland; Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, Unit of General Practice, Helsinki, Finland; Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Timo E Strandberg
- Centre for Life Course Health Research, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannu Laaksovirta
- Molecular Neurology, Research Programs Unit, Department of Neurology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Alan E Renton
- Department of Neuroscience, Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Bryan J Traynor
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, National Institutes on Aging, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Liisa Myllykangas
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and HUSLAB, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pentti J Tienari
- Molecular Neurology, Research Programs Unit, Department of Neurology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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20
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Nazarian A, Yashin AI, Kulminski AM. Genome-wide analysis of genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's disease and related sex disparities. ALZHEIMERS RESEARCH & THERAPY 2019; 11:5. [PMID: 30636644 PMCID: PMC6330399 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-018-0458-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in the elderly and the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. AD is mainly considered a complex disorder with polygenic inheritance. Despite discovering many susceptibility loci, a major proportion of AD genetic variance remains to be explained. METHODS We investigated the genetic architecture of AD in four publicly available independent datasets through genome-wide association, transcriptome-wide association, and gene-based and pathway-based analyses. To explore differences in the genetic basis of AD between males and females, analyses were performed on three samples in each dataset: males and females combined, only males, or only females. RESULTS Our genome-wide association analyses corroborated the associations of several previously detected AD loci and revealed novel significant associations of 35 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) outside the chromosome 19q13 region at the suggestive significance level of p < 5E-06. These SNPs were mapped to 21 genes in 19 chromosomal regions. Of these, 17 genes were not associated with AD at genome-wide or suggestive levels of associations by previous genome-wide association studies. Also, the chromosomal regions corresponding to 8 genes did not contain any previously detected AD-associated SNPs with p < 5E-06. Our transcriptome-wide association and gene-based analyses revealed that 26 genes located in 20 chromosomal regions outside chromosome 19q13 had evidence of potential associations with AD at a false discovery rate of 0.05. Of these, 13 genes/regions did not contain any previously AD-associated SNPs at genome-wide or suggestive levels of associations. Most of the newly detected AD-associated SNPs and genes were sex specific, indicating sex disparities in the genetic basis of AD. Also, 7 of 26 pathways that showed evidence of associations with AD in our pathway-bases analyses were significant only in females. CONCLUSIONS Our findings, particularly the newly discovered sex-specific genetic contributors, provide novel insight into the genetic architecture of AD and can advance our understanding of its pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Nazarian
- Biodemography of Aging Research Unit, Social Science Research Institute, Duke University, Erwin Mill Building, 2024 W. Main St., Durham, NC, 27705, USA.
| | - Anatoliy I Yashin
- Biodemography of Aging Research Unit, Social Science Research Institute, Duke University, Erwin Mill Building, 2024 W. Main St., Durham, NC, 27705, USA
| | - Alexander M Kulminski
- Biodemography of Aging Research Unit, Social Science Research Institute, Duke University, Erwin Mill Building, 2024 W. Main St., Durham, NC, 27705, USA.
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21
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Ma L, Zhang J, Shi Y, Wang W, Ren Z, Xia M, Zhang Y, Yang M. Gene mutations in a Han Chinese Alzheimer's disease cohort. Brain Behav 2019; 9:e01180. [PMID: 30549411 PMCID: PMC6346667 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia characterized by memory loss at disease onset. The gene mutations in the amyloid precursor protein (APP), presenilin 1 (PSEN1), and presenilin 2 (PSEN2) are the frequent causes of AD. However, the clinical and genetic features of AD overlap with other neurodegenerative diseases. The present study aimed to identify the clinical and genetic characteristics in a Han Chinese AD cohort. METHODS Detailed clinical assessment was applied to all the patients. We screened amyloid precursor protein (APP), PSEN1, PSEN2, and microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT) genes were assessed in 83 sporadic AD patients by Sanger sequencing. A total of 25 probands from families with AD were subjected to next-generation sequencing on 53 dementia-associated genes to capture the target region, and Sanger sequencing was used to detect the variants in the DNA sequence. RESULTS PSEN1 p.L226R was found in an early-onset AD (EOAD) family characterized by language impairment at disease onset, a novel probably pathogenetic variant (p.D534H) was identified in a frontal-temporal dementia gene, TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) with a typical AD phenotype in a late-onset AD (LOAD) family, and a PSEN2p.H169N mutation and two benign MAPT (p.Q230R and p.V48L) mutations were detected in three EOAD patients. CONCLUSIONS Thus, five variants were identified in a Han Chinese cohort. In the present study, a novel, probably damaging FTLD gene TBK1variant with a typical AD phenotype was detected. Also, the phenotypic characteristics of PSEN1 p.L226R, a PSEN2pathogenic mutation, and two likely benign MAPT variants were described. Hence, screening for mutations in other dementia genes could be further explored in clinically diagnosed AD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limin Ma
- Department of Neurology, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiewen Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yingying Shi
- Department of Neurology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wan Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Zhixia Ren
- Department of Neurology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mingrong Xia
- Department of Neurology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuanxing Zhang
- Department of Neurology, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Miaomiao Yang
- Department of Neurology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
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22
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Mehrabian S, Thonberg H, Raycheva M, Lilius L, Stoyanova K, Forsell C, Cavallin L, Nesheva D, Westman E, Toncheva D, Traykov L, Winblad B, Graff C. Phenotypic variability and neuropsychological findings associated with C9orf72 repeat expansions in a Bulgarian dementia cohort. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0208383. [PMID: 30550541 PMCID: PMC6294384 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0208383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The GGGGCC repeat expansion in the C9orf72 gene was recently identified as a major cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in several European populations. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency of C9orf72 repeat expansions in a Bulgarian dementia cohort and to delineate the associated clinical features. METHODS AND FINDINGS PCR-based assessments of the C9orf72 hexanucleotide repeat expansion in all study samples (including 82 FTD, 37 Alzheimer's disease (AD), and 16 other neurodegenerative/dementia disorder cases) were performed. We report the clinical, neuropsychological, and neuroimaging findings obtained for the C9orf72 repeat expansion carriers. Of the 135 cases screened, 3/82 (3.7%) of all FTD cases and 1/37 (2.7%) of all clinical AD cases had a C9orf72 repeat expansion. In this cohort, the C9orf72 pathological expansion was found in clinical diagnoses bridging the FTD, parkinsonism, ALS and AD spectrum. Interestingly, we showed early writing errors without aphasia in two subjects with C9orf72 expansions. CONCLUSIONS This study represents the first genetic screening for C9orf72 repeat expansions in a Bulgarian dementia cohort. The C9orf72 repeat expansion does not appear to be a common cause of FTD and related disorders. This report confirms the notion that C9orf72 repeat expansions underlie a broad spectrum of neurodegenerative phenotypes. Relatively isolated agraphia in two cases with C9orf72 repeat expansions is a strong motivation to provide detailed and sophisticated oral and written language assessments that can be used to more precisely characterize early cognitive deficits in these heterogeneous conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shima Mehrabian
- Depatment of Neurology, UH “Alexandrovska”, Medical University-Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
- * E-mail:
| | - Håkan Thonberg
- Karolinska Institutet, Dept NVS, Division for Neurogeriatrics, Bioclinicum, Akademiska stråket, Solna, Sweden
- Karolinska University Hospital, Theme Aging, Genetics Unit, Solna, Sweden
| | - Margarita Raycheva
- Depatment of Neurology, UH “Alexandrovska”, Medical University-Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Lena Lilius
- Karolinska Institutet, Dept NVS, Division for Neurogeriatrics, Bioclinicum, Akademiska stråket, Solna, Sweden
- Karolinska University Hospital, Theme Aging, Genetics Unit, Solna, Sweden
| | - Katya Stoyanova
- Depatment of Neurology, UH “Alexandrovska”, Medical University-Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Charlotte Forsell
- Karolinska Institutet, Dept NVS, Division for Neurogeriatrics, Bioclinicum, Akademiska stråket, Solna, Sweden
- Karolinska University Hospital, Theme Aging, Genetics Unit, Solna, Sweden
| | - Lena Cavallin
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska University Hospital, Department of Radiology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Eric Westman
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society (NVS), Center for Alzheimer Research, Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Neo, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Draga Toncheva
- Department of Genetics, Medical University-Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Latchezar Traykov
- Depatment of Neurology, UH “Alexandrovska”, Medical University-Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Bengt Winblad
- Karolinska University Hospital, Theme Aging, Clinical Trial Unit, Stockholm, Sweden
- Karolinska Institutet, Department NVS, Center for Alzheimer Research, Division of Neurogeriatrics, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Caroline Graff
- Karolinska Institutet, Dept NVS, Division for Neurogeriatrics, Bioclinicum, Akademiska stråket, Solna, Sweden
- Karolinska University Hospital, Theme Aging, Genetics Unit, Solna, Sweden
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23
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Bourinaris T, Houlden H. C9orf72 and its Relevance in Parkinsonism and Movement Disorders: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature. Mov Disord Clin Pract 2018; 5:575-585. [PMID: 30637277 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.12677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The C9orf72 hexanucleotide expansion is one of the latest discovered repeat expansion disorders related to neurodegeneration. Its association with the FTD/ALS spectrum disorders is well established, and it is considered to be one of the leading related genes. It has also been reported as a possible cause of several other phenotypes, including parkinsonism and other movement disorders. Its significance, though outside the FTD/ALS spectrum, is not well defined. Methods A comprehensive search of the literature was performed. All relevant papers, including reviews and case series/reports on movement disorder phenotypes reported with the C9orf72 repeat expansion, were reviewed. Data on frequency, natural history, phenotype, genetics, and possible underlying mechanisms were assessed. Results and Discussion In a number of studies, C9orf72 accounts for a small fraction of typical PD. Atypical parkinsonian syndromes, including CBS, PSP, and MSA have also been reported. Features that increase the probability of positive testing include early cognitive and/or behavioral symptoms, positive family history of ALS or FTD, and the presence of UMN and LMN signs. Furthermore, several studies conclude that C9orf72 is the most common cause of HD-phenocopies. Interestingly, many cases with the parkinsonian phenotype that bear an intermediate range of repeats are also reported, questioning the direct causal role of C9orf72 and suggesting the possibility of being a susceptibility factor, while the presence of the expansion in normal controls questions its clinical significance. Finally, studies on pathology reveal a distinctive broad range of C9orf72-related neurodegeneration that could explain the wide phenotypic variation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Bourinaris
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience Institute of Neurology, University College London London, WC1N 3BG UK
| | - Henry Houlden
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience Institute of Neurology, University College London London, WC1N 3BG UK
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24
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Biasiotto G, Zanella I. The effect of C9orf72 intermediate repeat expansions in neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2018; 27:42-43. [PMID: 30312838 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2018.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Biasiotto
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, Diagnostic Department, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Isabella Zanella
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, Diagnostic Department, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
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25
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Perrone F, Cacace R, Van Mossevelde S, Van den Bossche T, De Deyn PP, Cras P, Engelborghs S, van der Zee J, Van Broeckhoven C. Genetic screening in early-onset dementia patients with unclear phenotype: relevance for clinical diagnosis. Neurobiol Aging 2018; 69:292.e7-292.e14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2018.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2017] [Revised: 04/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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26
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Pasanen P, Myllykangas L, Pöyhönen M, Kiviharju A, Siitonen M, Hardy J, Bras J, Paetau A, Tienari PJ, Guerreiro R, Verkkoniemi-Ahola A. Genetics of dementia in a Finnish cohort. Eur J Hum Genet 2018; 26:827-837. [PMID: 29476165 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-018-0117-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Revised: 12/03/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are the two most common neurodegenerative dementias. Variants in APP, PSEN1 and PSEN2 are typically linked to early-onset AD, and several genetic risk loci are associated with late-onset AD. Inherited FTD can be caused by hexanucleotide expansions in C9orf72, or variants in GRN, MAPT or CHMP2B. Several other genes have also been linked to FTD or FTD with motor neuron disease. Here we describe a cohort of 60 Finnish families with possible inherited dementia. Our aim was to clarify the genetic background of dementia in this cohort by analysing both known dementia-associated genes (APOE, APP, C9ORF72, GRN, PSEN1 and PSEN2) and searching for rare or novel segregating variants with exome sequencing. C9orf72 repeat expansions were detected in 12 (20%) of the 60 families, including, in addition to FTD, a family with neuropathologically verified AD. Twelve families (10 with AD and 2 with FTD) with representative samples from affected and unaffected subjects and without C9orf72 expansions were selected for whole-exome sequencing. Exome sequencing did not reveal any variants that could be regarded unequivocally causative, but revealed potentially damaging variants in UNC13C and MARCH4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Pasanen
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland. .,Tyks Genetics and Saske, Department of Medical Genetics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.
| | - Liisa Myllykangas
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Minna Pöyhönen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anna Kiviharju
- Research Programs Unit, Molecular Neurology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maija Siitonen
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - John Hardy
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jose Bras
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK.,UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London, UK.,Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Anders Paetau
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pentti J Tienari
- Research Programs Unit, Molecular Neurology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Clinical Neurosciences, Neurology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Rita Guerreiro
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK.,UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London, UK.,Department of Medical Sciences and Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Auli Verkkoniemi-Ahola
- Clinical Neurosciences, Neurology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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27
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Spires-Jones TL, Attems J, Thal DR. Interactions of pathological proteins in neurodegenerative diseases. Acta Neuropathol 2017; 134:187-205. [PMID: 28401333 PMCID: PMC5508034 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-017-1709-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 259] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2017] [Revised: 03/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/01/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTD), Lewy body disease (LBD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) have in common that protein aggregates represent pathological hallmark lesions. Amyloid β-protein, τ-protein, α-synuclein, and TDP-43 are the most frequently aggregated proteins in these disorders. Although they are assumed to form disease-characteristic aggregates, such as amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in AD or Lewy bodies in LBD/PD, they are not restricted to these clinical presentations. They also occur in non-diseased individuals and can co-exist in the same brain without or with a clinical picture of a distinct dementing or movement disorder. In this review, we discuss the co-existence of these pathologies and potential additive effects in the human brain as well as related functional findings on cross-seeding and molecular interactions between these aggregates/proteins. We conclude that there is evidence for interactions at the molecular level as well as for additive effects on brain damage by multiple pathologies occurring in different functionally important neurons. Based upon this information, we hypothesize a cascade of events that may explain general mechanisms in the development of neurodegenerative disorders: (1) distinct lesions are a prerequisite for the development of a distinct disease (e.g., primary age-related tauopathy for AD), (2) disease-specific pathogenic events further trigger the development of a specific disease (e.g., Aβ aggregation in AD that exaggerate further Aβ and AD-related τ pathology), (3) the symptomatic disease manifests, and (4) neurodegenerative co-pathologies may be either purely coincidental or (more likely) have influence on the disease development and/or its clinical presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara L Spires-Jones
- Centre for Dementia Prevention, and Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease, The University of Edinburgh Centre for Cognitive and Neural Systems, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK.
| | - Johannes Attems
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Campus for Ageing and Vitality, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 5PL, UK
| | - Dietmar Rudolf Thal
- Departement Neurowetenschappen, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
- Departement Pathologische Ontleedkunde, UZ Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
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28
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In-depth clinico-pathological examination of RNA foci in a large cohort of C9ORF72 expansion carriers. Acta Neuropathol 2017; 134:255-269. [PMID: 28508101 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-017-1725-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Revised: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
A growing body of evidence suggests that a loss of chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9ORF72) expression, formation of dipeptide-repeat proteins, and generation of RNA foci contribute to disease pathogenesis in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia. Although the levels of C9ORF72 transcripts and dipeptide-repeat proteins have already been examined thoroughly, much remains unknown about the role of RNA foci in C9ORF72-linked diseases. As such, we performed a comprehensive RNA foci study in an extensive pathological cohort of C9ORF72 expansion carriers (n = 63). We evaluated two brain regions using a newly developed computer-automated pipeline allowing recognition of cell nuclei and RNA foci (sense and antisense) supplemented by manual counting. In the frontal cortex, the percentage of cells with sense or antisense RNA foci was 26 or 12%, respectively. In the cerebellum, 23% of granule cells contained sense RNA foci and 1% antisense RNA foci. Interestingly, the highest percentage of cells with RNA foci was observed in cerebellar Purkinje cells (~70%). In general, more cells contained sense RNA foci than antisense RNA foci; however, when antisense RNA foci were present, they were usually more abundant. We also observed that an increase in the percentage of cells with antisense RNA foci was associated with a delayed age at onset in the frontal cortex (r = 0.43, p = 0.003), whereas no other associations with clinico-pathological features were seen. Importantly, our large-scale study is the first to provide conclusive evidence that RNA foci are not the determining factor of the clinico-pathological variability observed in C9ORF72 expansion carriers and it emphasizes that the distribution of RNA foci does not follow the pattern of neurodegeneration, stressing the complex interplay between different aspects of C9ORF72-related diseases.
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29
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Ng ASL, Tan EK. Intermediate C9orf72 alleles in neurological disorders: does size really matter? J Med Genet 2017; 54:591-597. [PMID: 28689190 PMCID: PMC5574395 DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2017-104752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Revised: 05/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
C9orf72 repeat expansions is a major cause of familial frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) worldwide. Sizes of <20 hexanucleotide repeats are observed in controls, while up to thousands associate with disease. Intermediate C9orf72 repeat lengths, however, remain uncertain. We systematically reviewed the role of intermediate C9orf72 alleles in C9orf72-related neurological disorders. We identified 49 studies with adequate available data on normal or intermediate C9orf72 repeat length, involving subjects with FTD, ALS, Parkinson’s disease (PD), atypical parkinsonism, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other aetiologies. We found that, overall, normal or intermediate C9orf72 repeat lengths are not associated with higher disease risk across these disorders, but intermediate allele sizes appear to associate more frequently with neuropsychiatric phenotypes. Intermediate sizes were detected in subjects with personal or family history of FTD and/or psychiatric illness, parkinsonism complicated by psychosis and rarely in psychiatric cohorts. Length of the hexanucleotide repeat may be influenced by ethnicity (with Asian controls displaying shorter normal repeat lengths compared with Caucasians) and underlying haplotype, with more patients and controls carrying the ‘risk’ haplotype rs3849942 displaying intermediate alleles. There is some evidence that intermediate alleles display increased methylation levels and affect normal transcriptional activity of the C9orf72 promoter, but the ‘critical’ repeat size required for initiation of neurodegeneration remains unknown and requires further study. In common neurological diseases, intermediate C9orf72 repeats do not influence disease risk but may associate with higher frequency of neuropsychiatric symptoms. This has important clinical relevance as intermediate carriers pose a challenge for genetic counselling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeline S L Ng
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Eng-King Tan
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore.,Neuroscience and Behavioural Disorders, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore
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30
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Van Mossevelde S, van der Zee J, Cruts M, Van Broeckhoven C. Relationship between C9orf72 repeat size and clinical phenotype. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2017; 44:117-124. [PMID: 28319737 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2017.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Revised: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Patient carriers of a C9orf72 repeat expansion exhibit remarkable heterogeneous clinical and pathological characteristics suggesting the presence of modifying factors. In accordance with other repeat expansion diseases, repeat length is the prime candidate as a genetic modifier. Observations of earlier onset ages in younger generations of large families suggested a mechanism of disease anticipation. Yet, studies of repeat size and onset age have led to conflicting results. Also, the correlation between repeat size and diagnosis is poorly understood. We review what has been published regarding C9orf72 repeat size as modifier for phenotypic characteristics. Conclusive evidence is lacking, partly due to the difficulties in accurately defining the exact repeat size and the presence of repeat variability due to somatic mosaicism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Van Mossevelde
- Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium; Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium; Department of Neurology and Memory Clinic, Hospital Network Antwerp Hoge Beuken, Commandant Weynsstraat 165, 2660 Hoboken, Belgium; Department of Neurology, Antwerp University Hospital, Wilrijkstraat 10, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - Julie van der Zee
- Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium; Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Marc Cruts
- Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium; Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Christine Van Broeckhoven
- Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium; Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium.
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31
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Woollacott IOC, Rohrer JD. The clinical spectrum of sporadic and familial forms of frontotemporal dementia. J Neurochem 2016; 138 Suppl 1:6-31. [PMID: 27144467 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Revised: 04/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The term frontotemporal dementia (FTD) describes a clinically, genetically and pathologically diverse group of neurodegenerative disorders. Symptoms of FTD can present in individuals in their 20s through to their 90s, but the mean age at onset is in the sixth decade. The most common presentation is with a change in personality and impaired social conduct (behavioural variant FTD). Less frequently patients present with language problems (primary progressive aphasia). Both of these groups of patients can develop motor features consistent with either motor neuron disease (usually the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis variant) or parkinsonism (most commonly a progressive supranuclear palsy or corticobasal syndrome). In about a third of cases FTD is familial, with mutations in the progranulin, microtubule-associated protein tau and chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 genes being the major causes. Mutations in a number of other genes including TANK-binding kinase 1 are rare causes of familial FTD. This review aims to clarify the often confusing terminology of FTD, and outline the various clinical features and diagnostic criteria of sporadic and familial FTD syndromes. It will also discuss the current major challenges in FTD research and clinical practice, and potential areas for future research. This review clarifies the terminology of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and summarizes the various clinical features and most recent diagnostic criteria of sporadic and familial FTD syndromes. It also discusses the current major challenges in FTD research and clinical practice, and highlights potential areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ione O C Woollacott
- Dementia Research Centre, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Jonathan D Rohrer
- Dementia Research Centre, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
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32
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The Association between C9orf72 Repeats and Risk of Alzheimer's Disease and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Meta-Analysis. PARKINSONS DISEASE 2016; 2016:5731734. [PMID: 27375918 PMCID: PMC4916312 DOI: 10.1155/2016/5731734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
C9orf72 is the most common genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in Caucasian populations. However, the relationship between C9orf72 repeats and Alzheimer's disease (AD) was not clear. Additionally, there were few articles assessing C9orf72 in other ethnicities with ALS. In this meta-analysis, we aimed to investigate the relationship between C9orf72 repeat expansions (≥30 repeats) and intermediate repeat copies (20–29 repeats) and AD or ALS. The results suggested positive correlations between C9orf72 repeat expansions and the risk of Alzheimer's disease (OR = 6.36, 95% CI = 3.13–12.92, and p < 0.00001), while intermediate repeat copies of C9orf72 gene were not associated with the risk of the disease. C9orf72 repeat expansions were positively correlated with the risk of familial and sporadic ALS (OR = 293.25, 95% CI = 148.17–580.38, and p < 0.00001; OR = 35.57, 95% CI = 19.61–64.51, and p < 0.00001). There was a positive correlation between the gene variations and ALS risk among Caucasians and Asians (OR = 57.56, 95% CI = 36.73–90.22, and p < 0.00001; OR = 6.35, 95% CI = 1.39–29.02, and p = 0.02).
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33
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Chi S, Jiang T, Tan L, Yu JT. Distinct neurological disorders with C9orf72 mutations: genetics, pathogenesis, and therapy. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 66:127-42. [PMID: 27139021 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Revised: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The G4C2 repeat expansion within C9orf72 has been recently identified as the most common genetic cause of frontotemporal dementia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. This mutation has also been detected in a variety of other neurological diseases with distinct clinical manifestations. The exact mechanisms of how this mutation leads to the wide spectrum of clinical syndromes remain unknown. A series of molecular changes together with some potential modifiers may play a key role. Nucleolar stress, nucleocytoplasmic transport defect, oxidative damage, inhibited stress granules assembly, activated endoplasmic reticulum stress, and inhibited proteasome activity are mechanisms that contribute to the pathogenesis of these diseases. Additional mutations, epigenetic modifiers, and repeat size are potential modifiers that modulate specific phenotypes on the basis of the molecular changes. Here, we summarize distinct C9orf72-related neurological disorders and their corresponding neuropathological changes. Then, we elucidate the existing molecular knowledge and the potential modifiers. Finally, we detail the main target of treatment aiming at controlling expanded RNA transcripts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Chi
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China; Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, School of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Teng Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lan Tan
- Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, School of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China.
| | - Jin-Tai Yu
- Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, School of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China.
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Cacace R, Sleegers K, Van Broeckhoven C. Molecular genetics of early-onset Alzheimer's disease revisited. Alzheimers Dement 2016; 12:733-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jalz.2016.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 304] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2015] [Revised: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rita Cacace
- Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases group; Department of Molecular Genetics; VIB; Antwerp Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics; Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp; Antwerp Belgium
| | - Kristel Sleegers
- Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases group; Department of Molecular Genetics; VIB; Antwerp Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics; Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp; Antwerp Belgium
| | - Christine Van Broeckhoven
- Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases group; Department of Molecular Genetics; VIB; Antwerp Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics; Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp; Antwerp Belgium
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Piccoli E, Rossi G, Rossi T, Pelliccioni G, D'Amato I, Tagliavini F, Di Fede G. Novel PSEN1 mutations (H214N and R220P) associated with familial Alzheimer's disease identified by targeted exome sequencing. Neurobiol Aging 2016; 40:192.e7-192.e11. [PMID: 26925509 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2016.01.134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Revised: 12/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Autosomal dominant Alzheimer's disease (AD) is caused by mutations in amyloid precursor protein, presenilin 1 (PSEN1), and presenilin 2 genes and is mostly associated with early-onset form of AD (EOAD), whereas very few mutations were also found in late-onset AD (LOAD) cases. Because of the clinical overlapping between AD and other degenerative dementias such as frontotemporal dementias, a wide-spectrum genetic analysis should be envisaged in the differential diagnosis of this group of disorders. We used next-generation sequencing techniques to analyze 10 genes involved in dementia on a cohort of 20 EOAD and 20 LOAD cases. We found 5 rare coding variants (frequency <1%). PSEN1 H214N mutation, identified in a case of familial EOAD and PSEN1 R220P, found in a case of familial LOAD, are predicted to be pathogenic. These findings confirm the contribution of PSEN1 genetic variants also to LOAD, underlining the need of extending the genetic screening of presenilin mutations to LOAD patients. Two variants in microtubule-associated protein tau and 1 in progranulin appeared to be benign polymorphisms, showing no major contribution of these genes to AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Piccoli
- Division of Neurology V and Neuropathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Giacomina Rossi
- Division of Neurology V and Neuropathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy.
| | - Tommaso Rossi
- Division of Neurology, Geriatric Hospital, INRCA IRCCS, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Ilaria D'Amato
- Division of Neurology V and Neuropathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Tagliavini
- Division of Neurology V and Neuropathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Di Fede
- Division of Neurology V and Neuropathology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
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He M, Yan WQ, Zeng S, Liu Z, Zhou Y, Zeng XF, Zeng JS, Jiang H, Shen L, Tang BS, Wang JL. C9ORF72 repeat expansion is not detected in sporadic ataxia patients in mainland China. J Neurol Sci 2016; 361:181-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2015.12.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2015] [Revised: 12/19/2015] [Accepted: 12/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Kämäläinen A, Herukka SK, Hartikainen P, Helisalmi S, Moilanen V, Knuuttila A, Jansson L, Tienari PJ, Remes AM. Cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease in patients with frontotemporal lobar degeneration and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis with the C9ORF72 repeat expansion. Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord 2015; 39:287-93. [PMID: 25791939 DOI: 10.1159/000371704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The C9ORF72 expansion is one of the most common causes of frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The C9ORF72 expansion is associated with TDP-43 and p62 neuropathology, and amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles are not common in patients with the C9ORF72 expansion. Therefore, we hypothesized that cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease [AD; Aβ1-42, total tau (T-tau) and phospho-tau] are normal in these patients. METHODS The CSF Aβ1-42, T-tau and phospho-tau levels were measured in 40 Finnish patients with the C9ORF72 expansion (29 FTLD, 10 ALS and 1 FTLD-ALS) using ELISA. RESULTS A decreased Aβ1-42 level was found in 25% of cases, while there were only single cases with changes in the t-Tau or phospho-tau level. The patients with abnormal biomarkers fulfilled the clinical criteria of the behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia and expressed no clinical signs of AD. CONCLUSIONS In clinical diagnostics, a decreased CSF Aβ1-42 level does not exclude the C9ORF72 expansion associated with FTLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kämäläinen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine - Neurology, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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Benussi A, Padovani A, Borroni B. Phenotypic Heterogeneity of Monogenic Frontotemporal Dementia. Front Aging Neurosci 2015; 7:171. [PMID: 26388768 PMCID: PMC4555036 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2015.00171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a genetically and pathologically heterogeneous disorder characterized by personality changes, language impairment, and deficits of executive functions associated with frontal and temporal lobe degeneration. Different phenotypes have been defined on the basis of presenting clinical symptoms, i.e., the behavioral variant of FTD, the agrammatic variant of primary progressive aphasia, and the semantic variant of PPA. Some patients have an associated movement disorder, either parkinsonism, as in progressive supranuclear palsy and corticobasal syndrome, or motor neuron disease (FTD-MND). A family history of dementia is found in 40% of cases of FTD and about 10% have a clear autosomal-dominant inheritance. Genetic studies have identified several genes associated with monogenic FTD: microtubule-associated protein tau, progranulin, TAR DNA-binding protein 43, valosin-containing protein, charged multivesicular body protein 2B, fused in sarcoma, and the hexanucleotide repeat expansion in intron 1 of the chromosome 9 open reading frame 72. Patients often present with an extensive phenotypic variability, even among different members of the same kindred carrying an identical disease mutation. The objective of the present work is to review and evaluate available literature data in order to highlight recent advances in clinical, biological, and neuroimaging features of monogenic frontotemporal lobar degeneration and try to identify different mechanisms underlying the extreme phenotypic heterogeneity that characterizes this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Benussi
- Centre for Ageing Brain and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Padovani
- Centre for Ageing Brain and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Barbara Borroni
- Centre for Ageing Brain and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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The genetic landscape of Alzheimer disease: clinical implications and perspectives. Genet Med 2015; 18:421-30. [PMID: 26312828 PMCID: PMC4857183 DOI: 10.1038/gim.2015.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 539] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The search for the genetic factors contributing to Alzheimer disease (AD) has evolved tremendously throughout the years. It started from the discovery of fully penetrant mutations in Amyloid precursor protein, Presenilin 1, and Presenilin 2 as a cause of autosomal dominant AD, the identification of the ɛ4 allele of Apolipoprotein E as a strong genetic risk factor for both early-onset and late-onset AD, and evolved to the more recent detection of at least 21 additional genetic risk loci for the genetically complex form of AD emerging from genome-wide association studies and massive parallel resequencing efforts. These advances in AD genetics are positioned in light of the current endeavor directing toward translational research and personalized treatment of AD. We discuss the current state of the art of AD genetics and address the implications and relevance of AD genetics in clinical diagnosis and risk prediction, distinguishing between monogenic and multifactorial AD. Furthermore, the potential and current limitations of molecular reclassification of AD to streamline clinical trials in drug development and biomarker studies are addressed. Genet Med18 5, 421–430.
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40
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Donnelly CJ, Grima JC, Sattler R. Aberrant RNA homeostasis in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: potential for new therapeutic targets? Neurodegener Dis Manag 2015; 4:417-37. [PMID: 25531686 DOI: 10.2217/nmt.14.36] [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] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive motor neuron degeneration. The disease pathogenesis is multifaceted in that multiple cellular and molecular pathways have been identified as contributors to the disease progression. Consequently, numerous therapeutic targets have been pursued for clinical development, unfortunately with little success. The recent discovery of mutations in RNA modulating genes such as TARDBP/TDP-43, FUS/TLS or C9ORF72 changed our understanding of neurodegenerative mechanisms in ALS and introduced the role of dysfunctional RNA processing as a significant contributor to disease pathogenesis. This article discusses the latest findings on such RNA toxicity pathways in ALS and potential novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Donnelly
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Kovacs GG, van der Zee J, Hort J, Kristoferitsch W, Leitha T, Höftberger R, Ströbel T, Van Broeckhoven C, Matej R. Clinicopathological description of two cases with SQSTM1 gene mutation associated with frontotemporal dementia. Neuropathology 2015; 36:27-38. [PMID: 26234378 DOI: 10.1111/neup.12233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2015] [Revised: 06/25/2015] [Accepted: 06/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
There is a strong genetic influence on the clinicopathological phenotypes associated with frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Intracellular deposition of TDP-43 is the phenotypical hallmark of a frequent subgroup of cases. Mutations in the sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1) gene have rarely been found in individuals with FTD. Here we provide a comprehensive clinicopathological description of two cases with a SQSTM1 mutation. The clinical phenotype of patient 1 (mutation p.Glu396*) was compatible with the behavioural variant (bv) of FTD. TDP-43 pathology was consistent with the features of type B of FTLD-TDP pathology. However, prominent neuronal granular cytoplasmic TDP-43 immunoreactivity and abundant oligodendroglial inclusions, proven by colocalization with the oligodendroglial-marker TPPP/p25, were also seen. The clinical phenotype of patient 2 was compatible with bvFTD associated with parkinsonism and bulbar symptoms in the later stage. Genetic testing of patient 2 identified a C9orf72 repeat expansion mutation together with a missense mutation (p.Arg212Cys) in SQSTM1. TDP-43 pathology was characterized by neuritic profiles compatible mostly with type A. In contrast to patient 1, p62 pathology was seen to a greater extent as TDP-43 immunoreactivity in neurons. Using an antibody that detects poly(GP) peptides produced via repeat associated non-ATG translation associated with expanded hexanucleotide repeat in the C9orf72 gene, we confirmed the presence of pathognomonic inclusions. The present study supports previous observations on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) that SQSTM1 mutations consistently associate with TDP-43 pathology. The co-presence of C9orf72 mutation may influence the phenotype, thus finding one FTLD (or ALS) related mutation does not exclude the presence of further influential genetic alterations. Oligodendroglial TDP-43 pathology is considerable in some forms of FTLD-TDP, thus their evaluation might be considered to be included in classification systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabor G Kovacs
- Institute of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julie van der Zee
- Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases group, Department of Molecular Genetics, Antwerp, VIB, Belgium.,Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jakub Hort
- Memory Disorders Clinic, Department of Neurology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and Motol University Hospital, Czech Republic.,International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Wolfgang Kristoferitsch
- Karl Landsteiner Institute for Neuroimmunological and Neurodegenerative Disorders, SMZ-Ost- Donauspital, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Leitha
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, SMZ-Ost-Donauspital, Vienna, Austria
| | - Romana Höftberger
- Institute of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Ströbel
- Institute of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christine Van Broeckhoven
- Neurodegenerative Brain Diseases group, Department of Molecular Genetics, Antwerp, VIB, Belgium.,Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Radoslav Matej
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Thomayer Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic.,Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
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Le Ber I. Frontotemporal lobar dementia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis associated with c9orf72 expansion. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2015; 171:475-81. [PMID: 26032484 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2015.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Revised: 04/24/2015] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
An intronic GGGGCC repeat expansion in c9orf72 gene has been identified as the most common genetic cause of frontotemporal lobar dementia (FTLD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and FTLD-ALS. The discovery of c9orf72 gene has led to important scientific progresses and has considerably changed our clinical practice over the last few years. This paper summarizes the common and less typical phenotypes associated with c9orf72 expansion, the complex pathological pattern characterized by p62/dipeptide repeat aggregates, as well as the pathological mechanisms by which the expansion might produce neurodegeneration implicating loss-of-function, RNA toxicity, RNA-binding protein sequestration and accumulation of dipeptide repeats. We also discuss the recommendations and limits for genetic testing and counseling in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Le Ber
- Institut du cerveau et de la moelle épinière (ICM), Inserm U1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Universités, Université Pierre-et-Marie-Curie, université Paris 06, UPMC-P6 UMR S 1127, hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, 75013 Paris, France; Centre de référence des rémences rares, hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, 75013 Paris, France; Département des maladies du système nerveux, hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, 75013 Paris, France.
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Cooper-Knock J, Kirby J, Highley R, Shaw PJ. The Spectrum of C9orf72-mediated Neurodegeneration and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Neurotherapeutics 2015; 12:326-39. [PMID: 25731823 PMCID: PMC4404438 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-015-0342-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery that a hexanucleotide repeat expansion in C9orf72 is the most numerous genetic variant of both amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia has opened a rapidly growing field, which may provide long hoped for advances in the understanding and treatment of these devastating diseases. In this review we describe the various phenotypes, clinical and pathological, associated with expansion of C9orf72, which go beyond amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia to include neurodegeneration more broadly. Next we take a step back and summarize the current understanding of the C9orf72 expansion and its protein products at a molecular level. Three mechanisms are prominent: toxicity mediated directly by RNA transcribed from the repeat; toxicity mediated by dipeptide repeat proteins translated from the repeat sequence; and haploinsufficiency resulting from reduced transcription of the C9orf72 exonic sequence. A series of exciting advances have recently described how dipeptide repeat proteins might interfere with the normal role of the nucleolus in maturation of RNA binding proteins and in production of ribosomes. Importantly, these mechanisms are unlikely to be mutually exclusive. We draw attention to the fact that clinical and pathological similarities to other genetic variants without a repeat expansion must not be overlooked in ascribing a pathogenic mechanism to C9orf72-disease. Finally, with a view to impact on patient care, we discuss current practice with respect to genetic screening in patients with and without a family history of disease, and the most promising developments towards therapy that have been reported to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johnathan Cooper-Knock
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, 385A Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2HQ UK
| | - Janine Kirby
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, 385A Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2HQ UK
| | - Robin Highley
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, 385A Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2HQ UK
| | - Pamela J. Shaw
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, 385A Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2HQ UK
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45
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C9orf72 hexanucleotide repeat expansion analysis in Chinese spastic paraplegia patients. J Neurol Sci 2014; 347:104-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2014.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2014] [Revised: 09/15/2014] [Accepted: 09/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Abstract
AbstractBackground: A large hexanucleotide repeat expansion in C9orf72 has been identified as the most common genetic cause in familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia. Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) is a sleep disorder that has been strongly linked to synuclein-mediated neurodegeneration. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of the C9orf72 expansions in the pathogenesis of RBD. Methods: We amplified the C9orf72 repeat expansion in 344 patients with RBD by a repeat-primed polymerase chain reaction assay. Results: We identified two RBD patients carrying the C9orf72 repeat expansion. Most interestingly, these patients have the same C9orf72 associated-risk haplotype identified in 9p21-linked amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia families. Conclusions: Our study enlarges the phenotypic spectrum associated with the C9orf72 hexanucleotide repeat expansions and suggests that, although rare, this expansion may play a role in the pathogenesis of RBD.
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Davidson YS, Barker H, Robinson AC, Thompson JC, Harris J, Troakes C, Smith B, Al-Saraj S, Shaw C, Rollinson S, Masuda-Suzukake M, Hasegawa M, Pickering-Brown S, Snowden JS, Mann DM. Brain distribution of dipeptide repeat proteins in frontotemporal lobar degeneration and motor neurone disease associated with expansions in C9ORF72. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2014; 2:70. [PMID: 24950788 PMCID: PMC4229740 DOI: 10.1186/2051-5960-2-70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 06/05/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A hexanucleotide (GGGGCC) expansion in C9ORF72 gene is the most common genetic change seen in familial Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration (FTLD) and familial Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Pathologically, expansion bearers show characteristic p62 positive, TDP-43 negative inclusion bodies within cerebellar and hippocampal neurons which also contain dipeptide repeat proteins (DPR) formed from sense and antisense RAN (repeat associated non ATG-initiated) translation of the expanded repeat region itself. 'Inappropriate' formation, and aggregation, of DPR might therefore confer neurotoxicity and influence clinical phenotype. Consequently, we compared the topographic brain distribution of DPR in 8 patients with Frontotemporal dementia (FTD), 6 with FTD + MND and 7 with MND alone (all 21 patients bearing expansions in C9ORF72) using a polyclonal antibody to poly-GA, and related this to the extent of TDP-43 pathology in key regions of cerebral cortex and hippocampus. There were no significant differences in either the pattern or severity of brain distribution of DPR between FTD, FTD + MND and MND groups, nor was there any relationship between the distribution of DPR and TDP-43 pathologies in expansion bearers. Likewise, there were no significant differences in the extent of TDP-43 pathology between FTLD patients bearing an expansion in C9ORF72 and non-bearers of the expansion. There were no association between the extent of DPR pathology and TMEM106B or APOE genotypes. However, there was a negative correlation between the extent of DPR pathology and age at onset. Present findings therefore suggest that although the presence and topographic distribution of DPR may be of diagnostic relevance in patients bearing expansion in C9ORF72 this has no bearing on the determination of clinical phenotype. Because TDP-43 pathologies are similar in bearers and non-bearers of the expansion, the expansion may act as a major genetic risk factor for FTLD and MND by rendering the brain highly vulnerable to those very same factors which generate FTLD and MND in sporadic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne S Davidson
- />Clinical and Cognitive Sciences Research Group, Institute of Brain, Behaviour and Mental Health, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Salford Royal Hospital, Salford, M6 8HD UK
| | - Holly Barker
- />Clinical and Cognitive Sciences Research Group, Institute of Brain, Behaviour and Mental Health, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Salford Royal Hospital, Salford, M6 8HD UK
| | - Andrew C Robinson
- />Clinical and Cognitive Sciences Research Group, Institute of Brain, Behaviour and Mental Health, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Salford Royal Hospital, Salford, M6 8HD UK
| | - Jennifer C Thompson
- />Clinical and Cognitive Sciences Research Group, Institute of Brain, Behaviour and Mental Health, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Salford Royal Hospital, Salford, M6 8HD UK
| | - Jenny Harris
- />Clinical and Cognitive Sciences Research Group, Institute of Brain, Behaviour and Mental Health, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Salford Royal Hospital, Salford, M6 8HD UK
| | - Claire Troakes
- />Department of Neuropathology, Institute of Psychiatry, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Bradley Smith
- />Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Safa Al-Saraj
- />Department of Neuropathology, Institute of Psychiatry, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Chris Shaw
- />Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF UK
| | - Sara Rollinson
- />Clinical and Cognitive Sciences Research Group, Institute of Brain, Behaviour and Mental Health, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, A V Hill Building, Manchester, M13 9PT UK
| | - Masami Masuda-Suzukake
- />Department of Neuropathology and Cell Biology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8506 Japan
| | - Masato Hasegawa
- />Department of Neuropathology and Cell Biology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 156-8506 Japan
| | - Stuart Pickering-Brown
- />Clinical and Cognitive Sciences Research Group, Institute of Brain, Behaviour and Mental Health, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, A V Hill Building, Manchester, M13 9PT UK
| | - Julie S Snowden
- />Clinical and Cognitive Sciences Research Group, Institute of Brain, Behaviour and Mental Health, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Salford Royal Hospital, Salford, M6 8HD UK
| | - David M Mann
- />Clinical and Cognitive Sciences Research Group, Institute of Brain, Behaviour and Mental Health, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Salford Royal Hospital, Salford, M6 8HD UK
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Sareen D, O'Rourke JG, Meera P, Muhammad AKMG, Grant S, Simpkinson M, Bell S, Carmona S, Ornelas L, Sahabian A, Gendron T, Petrucelli L, Baughn M, Ravits J, Harms MB, Rigo F, Bennett CF, Otis TS, Svendsen CN, Baloh RH. Targeting RNA foci in iPSC-derived motor neurons from ALS patients with a C9ORF72 repeat expansion. Sci Transl Med 2014; 5:208ra149. [PMID: 24154603 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.3007529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 507] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe neurodegenerative condition characterized by loss of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. Expansions of a hexanucleotide repeat (GGGGCC) in the noncoding region of the C9ORF72 gene are the most common cause of the familial form of ALS (C9-ALS), as well as frontotemporal lobar degeneration and other neurological diseases. How the repeat expansion causes disease remains unclear, with both loss of function (haploinsufficiency) and gain of function (either toxic RNA or protein products) proposed. We report a cellular model of C9-ALS with motor neurons differentiated from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from ALS patients carrying the C9ORF72 repeat expansion. No significant loss of C9ORF72 expression was observed, and knockdown of the transcript was not toxic to cultured human motor neurons. Transcription of the repeat was increased, leading to accumulation of GGGGCC repeat-containing RNA foci selectively in C9-ALS iPSC-derived motor neurons. Repeat-containing RNA foci colocalized with hnRNPA1 and Pur-α, suggesting that they may be able to alter RNA metabolism. C9-ALS motor neurons showed altered expression of genes involved in membrane excitability including DPP6, and demonstrated a diminished capacity to fire continuous spikes upon depolarization compared to control motor neurons. Antisense oligonucleotides targeting the C9ORF72 transcript suppressed RNA foci formation and reversed gene expression alterations in C9-ALS motor neurons. These data show that patient-derived motor neurons can be used to delineate pathogenic events in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhruv Sareen
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
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Antisense oligonucleotide therapy for the treatment of C9ORF72 ALS/FTD diseases. Mol Neurobiol 2014; 50:721-32. [PMID: 24809691 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-014-8724-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2013] [Accepted: 04/28/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Motor neuron disorders, and particularly amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), are fatal diseases that are due to the loss of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, with progressive paralysis and premature death. It has been recently shown that the most frequent genetic cause of ALS, frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and other neurological diseases is the expansion of a hexanucleotide repeat (GGGGCC) in the non-coding region of the C9ORF72 gene. The pathogenic mechanisms that produce cell death in the presence of this expansion are still unclear. One of the most likely hypotheses seems to be the gain-of-function that is achieved through the production of toxic RNA (able to sequester RNA-binding protein) and/or toxic proteins. In recent works, different authors have reported that antisense oligonucleotides complementary to the C9ORF72 RNA transcript sequence were able to significantly reduce RNA foci generated by the expanded RNA, in affected cells. Here, we summarize the recent findings that support the idea that the buildup of "toxic" RNA containing the GGGGCC repeat contributes to the death of motor neurons in ALS and also suggest that the use of antisense oligonucleotides targeting this transcript is a promising strategy for treating ALS/frontotemporal lobe dementia (FTLD) patients with the C9ORF72 repeat expansion. These data are particularly important, given the state of the art antisense technology, and they allow researchers to believe that a clinical application of these discoveries will be possible soon.
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Unconventional features of C9ORF72 expanded repeat in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal lobar degeneration. Neurobiol Aging 2014; 35:2421.e1-2421.e12. [PMID: 24836899 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2014.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2014] [Revised: 03/31/2014] [Accepted: 04/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) are devastating neurodegenerative diseases that form two ends of a complex disease spectrum. Aggregation of RNA binding proteins is one of the hallmark pathologic features of ALS and FTDL and suggests perturbance of the RNA metabolism in their etiology. Recent identification of the disease-associated expansions of the intronic hexanucleotide repeat GGGGCC in the C9ORF72 gene further substantiates the case for RNA involvement. The expanded repeat, which has turned out to be the single most common genetic cause of ALS and FTLD, may enable the formation of complex DNA and RNA structures, changes in RNA transcription, and processing and formation of toxic RNA foci, which may sequester and inactivate RNA binding proteins. Additionally, the transcribed expanded repeat can undergo repeat-associated non-ATG-initiated translation resulting in accumulation of a series of dipeptide repeat proteins. Understanding the basis of the proposed mechanisms and shared pathways, as well as interactions with known key proteins such as TAR DNA-binding protein (TDP-43) are needed to clarify the pathology of ALS and/or FTLD, and make possible steps toward therapy development.
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