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Lacoste B, Prat A, Freitas-Andrade M, Gu C. The Blood-Brain Barrier: Composition, Properties, and Roles in Brain Health. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2025; 17:a041422. [PMID: 38951020 PMCID: PMC12047665 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Blood vessels are critical to deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs throughout the body. The blood vessels that vascularize the central nervous system (CNS) possess unique properties, termed the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which allow these vessels to tightly regulate the movement of ions, molecules, and cells between the blood and the brain. This precise control of CNS homeostasis allows for proper neuronal function and protects the neural tissue from toxins and pathogens, and alterations of this barrier are important components of the pathogenesis and progression of various neurological diseases. The physiological barrier is coordinated by a series of physical, transport, and metabolic properties possessed by the brain endothelial cells (ECs) that form the walls of the blood vessels. These properties are regulated by interactions between different vascular, perivascular, immune, and neural cells. Understanding how these cell populations interact to regulate barrier properties is essential for understanding how the brain functions in both health and disease contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baptiste Lacoste
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Neuroscience Program, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
- University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Alexandre Prat
- Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H2X 0A9, Canada
| | - Moises Freitas-Andrade
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Neuroscience Program, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Chenghua Gu
- Department of Neurobiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
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2
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Takeuchi LE, Kalia LV, Simmons CA. Vascular models of Alzheimer's disease: An overview of recent in vitro models of the blood-brain barrier. Neurobiol Dis 2025; 208:106864. [PMID: 40089165 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2025.106864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2024] [Revised: 02/18/2025] [Accepted: 03/06/2025] [Indexed: 03/17/2025] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains an overwhelming epidemiologic and economic burden on our healthcare systems, affecting an estimate of 11 % of individuals aged 65 years and older. Increasing evidence of the role of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in AD pathology lends support to the vascular hypothesis of AD, which posits that damage to cerebral vasculature and impairments to cerebral blood flow are major contributors to neurodegeneration in AD. While the question remains whether the dysfunction of the BBB is the cause or consequence of the disease, understanding of the relationship between vascular pathology and AD is growing increasingly complex, warranting the need for better tools to study vasculature in AD. This review provides an overview of AD models in the context of studying vascular impairments and their relevance in pathology. Specifically, we summarize opportunities in in vitro models, cell sources, and phenotypic observations in sporadic and familial forms of AD. Further, we describe recent advances in generating models which recapitulate in vivo characteristics of the BBB in AD through the use of microfluidics, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), and organoid technologies. Finally, we provide a searchable database of reported cell-based models of pathogenic AD gene variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily E Takeuchi
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 3G9, Canada; Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada.
| | - Lorraine V Kalia
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada; Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada; Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Craig A Simmons
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 3G9, Canada; Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada; Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G8, Canada.
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3
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Rust R, Sagare AP, Zhang M, Zlokovic BV, Kisler K. The blood-brain barrier as a treatment target for neurodegenerative disorders. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2025; 22:673-692. [PMID: 40096820 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2025.2480654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2025] [Accepted: 03/13/2025] [Indexed: 03/19/2025]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a vascular endothelial membrane which restricts entry of toxins, cells, and microorganisms into the brain. At the same time, the BBB supplies the brain with nutrients, key substrates for DNA and RNA synthesis, and regulatory molecules, and removes metabolic waste products from brain to blood. BBB breakdown and/or dysfunction have been shown in neurogenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Current data suggests that these BBB changes may initiate and/or contribute to neuronal, synaptic, and cognitive dysfunction, and possibly other aspects of neurodegenerative processes. AREAS COVERED We first briefly review recent studies uncovering molecular composition of brain microvasculature and examine the BBB as a possible therapeutic target in neurodegenerative disorders with a focus on AD. Current strategies aimed at protecting and/or restoring altered BBB functions are considered. The relevance of BBB-directed approaches to improve neuronal and synaptic function, and to slow progression of neurodegenerative processes are also discussed. Lastly, we review recent advancements in drug delivery across the BBB. EXPERT OPINION BBB breakdown and/or dysfunction can significantly affect neuronal and synaptic function and neurodegenerative processes. More attention should focus on therapeutics to preserve or restore BBB functions when considering treatments of neurodegenerative diseases and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruslan Rust
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience and the Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Abhay P Sagare
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience and the Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mingzi Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience and the Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Berislav V Zlokovic
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience and the Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kassandra Kisler
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience and the Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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4
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Ponce-Lopez T. Peripheral Inflammation and Insulin Resistance: Their Impact on Blood-Brain Barrier Integrity and Glia Activation in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2025; 26:4209. [PMID: 40362446 PMCID: PMC12072112 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26094209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2025] [Revised: 04/22/2025] [Accepted: 04/23/2025] [Indexed: 05/15/2025] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, memory impairment, and synaptic dysfunction. The accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and hyperphosphorylated tau protein leads to neuronal dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and glial cell activation. Emerging evidence suggests that peripheral insulin resistance and chronic inflammation, often associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity, promote increased proinflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress, and immune cell infiltration. These conditions further damage the blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity and promote neurotoxicity and chronic glial cell activation. This induces neuroinflammation and impaired neuronal insulin signaling, reducing glucose metabolism and exacerbating Aβ accumulation and tau hyperphosphorylation. Indeed, epidemiological studies have linked T2D and obesity with an increased risk of developing AD, reinforcing the connection between metabolic disorders and neurodegeneration. This review explores the relationships between peripheral insulin resistance, inflammation, and BBB dysfunction, highlighting their role in glial activation and the exacerbation of AD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Ponce-Lopez
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (CICSA), Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac México Campus Norte, Huixquilucan 52786, Mexico
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5
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Rust R, Sagare AP, Kisler K, Kim Y, Zhang M, Griffin C, Wang Y, Clementel V, Torres-Sepulveda C, Tcw J, Zlokovic BV, Coba MP. Molecular signature and functional properties of human pluripotent stem cell-derived brain pericytes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2025:2023.06.26.546577. [PMID: 40291694 PMCID: PMC12026417 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.26.546577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2025]
Abstract
Brain pericytes maintain the blood-brain barrier (BBB), secrete neurotrophic factors and clear toxic proteins. Their loss in neurological disorders leads to BBB breakdown, neuronal dysfunction, and cognitive decline. Therefore, cell therapy to replace lost pericytes holds potential to restore impaired cerebrovascular and brain functions. However, the molecular composition and function of human iPSC-derived brain pericytes (iPSC-PC) remains poorly characterized. Here, we show by a quantitative analysis of 8,344 proteins and 20,572 phosphopeptides that iPSC-PC share 96% of total proteins and 98% of protein phosphorylation sites with primary human brain pericytes. This includes cell adhesion and tight junction proteins, transcription factors, and different protein kinase families of the human kinome. In pericyte-deficient mice, iPSC-PC home to host brain capillaries to form hybrid human-mouse microvessels with ligand-receptor associations. They repair BBB leaks and protect against neuron loss, which we show requires PDGRFB and pleiotrophin. They also clear Alzheimer's amyloid-β and tau neurotoxins via lipoprotein receptor. Thus, iPSC-PC may have potential as a replacement therapy for pericyte-deficient neurological disorders.
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6
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Asante JJ, Barger SW. P-glycoprotein and Alzheimer's Disease: Threats and Opportunities. ASN Neuro 2025; 17:2495632. [PMID: 40264334 DOI: 10.1080/17590914.2025.2495632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2025] [Accepted: 04/15/2025] [Indexed: 04/24/2025] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects more than 50 million people worldwide. One of the hallmark features of AD is the accumulation of amyloid β-peptide (Aβ) protein in the brain. P-glycoprotein (P-gp) is a membrane-bound protein expressed in various tissues, including the cerebrovascular endothelium. It plays a crucial role in the efflux of toxic substances, including Aβ, from the brain. Aberrations in P-gp levels or activity have been implicated in the pathogenesis of AD by promoting the accumulation of Aβ in the brain. Therefore, modulating the P-gp function represents a promising therapeutic strategy for treating AD. P-gp has multiple substrate binding sites, creating the potential for substrates to fall into complementation groups based on these sites; two substrates in the same complementation group may compete with one other, but two substrates in different groups may exhibit cooperativity. Thus, a given P-gp substrate may interfere with Aβ efflux whereas another may promote clearance. These threats and opportunities, as well as other aspects of P-gp relevance to AD, are discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Jr Asante
- Graduate Program in Bioinformatics, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Steven W Barger
- Department of Geriatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Little Rock, AR, USA
- Geriatric Research, Education & Clinical Center, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, Little Rock, AR, USA
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7
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Zhang CL, Ma JJ, Li X, Yan HQ, Gui YK, Yan ZX, You MF, Zhang P. The role of transcytosis in the blood-retina barrier: from pathophysiological functions to drug delivery. Front Pharmacol 2025; 16:1565382. [PMID: 40308764 PMCID: PMC12040858 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2025.1565382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2025] [Accepted: 03/31/2025] [Indexed: 05/02/2025] Open
Abstract
The blood-retina barrier (BRB) serves as a critical interface that separates the retina from the circulatory system, playing an essential role in preserving the homeostasis of the microenvironment within the retina. Specialized tight junctions and limited vesicle trafficking restrict paracellular and transcellular transport, respectively, thereby maintaining BRB barrier properties. Additionally, transcytosis of macromolecules through retinal vascular endothelial cells constitutes a primary mechanism for transporting substances from the vascular compartment into the surrounding tissue. This review summarizes the fundamental aspects of transcytosis including its function in the healthy retina, the biochemical properties of transcytosis, and the methodologies used to study this process. Furthermore, we discuss the current understanding of transcytosis in the context of pathological BRB breakdown and present recent findings that highlight significant advances in drug delivery to the retina based on transcytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Lin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Jing-Jie Ma
- Department of Audit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Hai-Qing Yan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yong-Kun Gui
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Zhi-Xin Yan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Ming-Feng You
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
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8
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Rozeboom A, Broekaart DWM, Anink JJ, Boonkamp L, Idema S, Teunissen CE, Aronica E, Gorter JA, van Vliet EA. Cellular expression of low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 and amyloid beta deposition in human and rat epileptogenic brain. Exp Neurol 2025; 386:115149. [PMID: 39842492 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2025.115149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2024] [Revised: 01/10/2025] [Accepted: 01/13/2025] [Indexed: 01/24/2025]
Abstract
Decreased capillary expression of low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) has been linked to increased brain amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Aβ accumulation has also been observed in (a subset of) temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) patients, suggesting a potential link between epilepsy and AD. This study examines cellular LRP1 expression in human and rat epileptogenic brain tissue to explore LRP1's role in epilepsy. LRP1 expression and localization were analyzed in hippocampal sections from patients with status epilepticus (SE, n = 12), TLE (n = 12), autopsy controls (n = 20), and AD (n = 10) using immunohistochemistry. Soluble Aβ levels and deposits were compared across TLE, AD, and control tissues. LRP1 expression was also studied in an electrical post-SE rat model of TLE. Decreased capillary LRP1 expression was found in both human and rat brain tissue (SE and TLE). Higher LRP1 expression was detected in CA1 neurons (only in human TLE) and glial cells (SE and TLE). Aβ deposits were observed in only one out of 12 TLE patients, and soluble Aβ levels were not significantly elevated. In contrast, AD patients showed decreased capillary LRP1 expression accompanied by Aβ plaques and increased soluble Aβ40/42 levels. The significant reduction in LRP1 expression in brain capillaries in both adult human and rat TLE was not clearly associated with notable Aβ accumulation implying that alternative amyloid clearance mechanisms beyond LRP1 in blood vessels might be at play. It also supports previous findings indicating that Aβ pathology may be less prominent in adult TLE than some studies suggest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemieke Rozeboom
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Diede W M Broekaart
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jasper J Anink
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lynn Boonkamp
- Neurochemistry Laboratory, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sander Idema
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Neurosurgery, Amsterdam Neuroscience, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Charlotte E Teunissen
- Neurochemistry Laboratory, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jan A Gorter
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Erwin A van Vliet
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro) Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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9
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Bohannon DG, Long D, Okhravi HR, Lee SC, De Jesus CL, Neubert TA, Rostagno AA, Ghiso JA, Kim W. Functionally distinct pericyte subsets differently regulate amyloid-β deposition in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Brain Pathol 2025; 35:e13282. [PMID: 38932696 PMCID: PMC11835444 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.13282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Although the concept that the blood-brain barrier (BBB) plays an important role in the etiology and pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) has become increasingly accepted, little is known yet about how it actually contributes. We and others have recently identified a novel functionally distinct subset of BBB pericytes (PCs). In the present study, we sought to determine whether these PC subsets differentially contribute to AD-associated pathologies by immunohistochemistry and amyloid beta (Aβ) peptidomics. We demonstrated that a disease-associated PC subset (PC2) expanded in AD patients compared to age-matched, cognitively unimpaired controls. Surprisingly, we found that this increase in the percentage of PC2 (%PC2) was correlated negatively with BBB breakdown in AD patients, unlike in natural aging or other reported disease conditions. The higher %PC2 in AD patients was also correlated with a lower Aβ42 plaque load and a lower Aβ42:Aβ40 ratio in the brain as determined by immunohistochemistry. Colocalization analysis of multicolor confocal immunofluorescence microscopy images suggests that AD patient with low %PC2 have higher BBB breakdown due to internalization of Aβ42 by the physiologically normal PC subset (PC1) and their concomitant cell death leading to more vessels without PCs and increased plaque load. On the contrary, it appears that PC2 can secrete cathepsin D to cleave and degrade Aβ built up outside of PC2 into more soluble forms, ultimately contributing to less BBB breakdown and reducing Aβ plaque load. Collectively our data shows functionally distinct mechanisms for PC1 and PC2 in high Aβ conditions, demonstrating the importance of correctly identifying these populations when investigating the contribution of neurovascular dysfunction to AD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana G. Bohannon
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell BiologyEastern Virginia Medical SchoolNorfolkVirginiaUSA
| | - Danielle Long
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell BiologyEastern Virginia Medical SchoolNorfolkVirginiaUSA
| | - Hamid R. Okhravi
- Glennan Center for Geriatrics and GerontologyEastern Virginia Medical SchoolNorfolkVirginiaUSA
- Integrated Neurodegenerative Disorders CenterEastern Virginia Medical SchoolNorfolkVirginiaUSA
| | | | | | - Thomas A. Neubert
- Department of Neuroscience and PhysiologyNew York University Grossman School of MedicineNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Agueda A. Rostagno
- Department of PathologyNew York University Grossman School of MedicineNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Jorge A. Ghiso
- Department of PathologyNew York University Grossman School of MedicineNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Department of PsychiatryNew York University Grossman School of MedicineNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Woong‐Ki Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell BiologyEastern Virginia Medical SchoolNorfolkVirginiaUSA
- Integrated Neurodegenerative Disorders CenterEastern Virginia Medical SchoolNorfolkVirginiaUSA
- Division of MicrobiologyTulane National Primate Research CenterCovingtonLouisianaUSA
- Department of Microbiology and ImmunologyTulane University School of MedicineNew OrleansLouisianaUSA
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10
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Xu B, Lei X, Yang Y, Yu J, Chen J, Xu Z, Ye K, Zhang J. Peripheral proteinopathy in neurodegenerative diseases. Transl Neurodegener 2025; 14:2. [PMID: 39819742 PMCID: PMC11737199 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-024-00461-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2024] [Accepted: 12/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2025] Open
Abstract
Proteinopathies in neurology typically refer to pathological changes in proteins associated with neurological diseases, such as the aggregation of amyloid β and Tau in Alzheimer's disease, α-synuclein in Parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy, and TAR DNA-binding protein 43 in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia. Interestingly, these proteins are also commonly found in peripheral tissues, raising important questions about their roles in neurological disorders. Multiple studies have shown that peripherally derived pathological proteins not only travel to the brain through various routes, aggravating brain pathology, but also contribute significantly to peripheral dysfunction, highlighting their crucial impact on neurological diseases. Investigating how these peripherally derived proteins influence the progression of neurological disorders could open new horizons for achieving early diagnosis and treatment. This review summarizes the distribution, transportation pathways, and pathogenic mechanisms of several neurodegenerative disease-related pathological proteins in the periphery, proposing that targeting these peripheral pathological proteins could be a promising strategy for preventing and managing neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Xu
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xia Lei
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jiayi Yu
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
- School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310002, China
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Zhi Xu
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
- School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310002, China
| | - Keqiang Ye
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Shenzhen University of Advanced Technology (SUAT), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
- National Human Brain Bank for Health and Disease, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, China.
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11
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Li W, Chen C, Xu B, Chen J, Yang M, Gao L, Zhou J. The LDL Receptor-Related Protein 1: Mechanisms and roles in promoting Aβ efflux transporter in Alzheimer's disease. Biochem Pharmacol 2025; 231:116643. [PMID: 39577706 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2024] [Revised: 10/28/2024] [Accepted: 11/19/2024] [Indexed: 11/24/2024]
Abstract
The LDL Receptor-Related Protein 1(LRP1), a member of the Low-density Lipoprotein (LDL) receptor family, is a multifunctional cellular transporter and signaling receptor, this includes regulation of lipid metabolism, cell migration and signaling. Abnormal accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) in the brain is thought to be the main pathological change in Alzheimer's disease. By binding to a variety of ligands, LRP1 is involved in the internalization and degradation of Aβ, thereby affecting the course of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, we discuss the main mechanisms by which LRP1 mediates Aβ degradation and clearance and several current therapeutic approaches targeting LRP1. Finally, we concluded that modulating the expression level of LRP1 is an effective way to attenuate Aβ deposition and ameliorate AD. Abbreviations: LRP1, LDL Receptor-Related Protein 1;LDL, Low Density Lipoprotein; Aβ, amyloid beta; AD, Alzheimer's disease; APP, amyloid precursor protein; ApoE, apolipoprotein E; TGF, growth factor; MMP, matrix metalloproteinase;TAT, thrombin-antithrombin complex; BBB, blood-brain barrier; MMP-9,cyclophilin A (CypA)-matrix metalloproteinase-9; VMC, Vascular Mural Cell; IDE,insulin degrading enzyme; EVs, extracellular vesicles; sLRP1,shed LRP1; BDNF, brain-derived neurotrophin; IGF-1,insulin-like growth factor 1; NGF, nerve growth factor; MAPK,mitogen-activated protein kinase; ERK1/2,exogenous signal-regulated kinase1/2;JNK, c-Jun amino-terminal kinase; TLR4, toll-like receptor 4; NF-κB,nuclear factor-κB; GCAP,guanylate cyclase-activating protein; KD, ketogenic diet;KB, ketone body; BLECs,Brain-like endothelial cell; BYHWD, Buyang Huanwu decoction; LGZG, Linguizhugan decoction;P- gp, P-glycoprotein;PPARγ, Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ;SP16,SERPIN peptide 16; Asx, Astaxanthin; Bex, Bexarotene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiyi Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hunan Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for Drug Evaluation of Major Chronic Diseases, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Clinical Pharmacology Research Center, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Institution of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hunan Province Clinical Research Center for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of High-incidence Sexually Transmitted Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, China
| | - Canyu Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hunan Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for Drug Evaluation of Major Chronic Diseases, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Clinical Pharmacology Research Center, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Bo Xu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hunan Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for Drug Evaluation of Major Chronic Diseases, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Clinical Pharmacology Research Center, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Jixiang Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hunan Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for Drug Evaluation of Major Chronic Diseases, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Clinical Pharmacology Research Center, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Mingxia Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hunan Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for Drug Evaluation of Major Chronic Diseases, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Clinical Pharmacology Research Center, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Institution of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hunan Province Clinical Research Center for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of High-incidence Sexually Transmitted Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, China
| | - Lili Gao
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hunan Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for Drug Evaluation of Major Chronic Diseases, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Clinical Pharmacology Research Center, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Jiecan Zhou
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hunan Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for Drug Evaluation of Major Chronic Diseases, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Clinical Pharmacology Research Center, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China.
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12
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Pan J, Zhong J, Geng J, Oberhauser J, Shi S, Wan J. Microglial Lyzl4 Facilitates β-Amyloid Clearance in Alzheimer's Disease. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2025; 12:e2412184. [PMID: 39555667 PMCID: PMC11727385 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202412184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2024] [Revised: 10/30/2024] [Indexed: 11/19/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition characterized by the accumulation and deposition of amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregates in the brain. Despite a wealth of research on the toxicity of Aβ and its role in synaptic damage, the mechanisms facilitating Aβ clearance are not yet fully understood. However, microglia, the primary immune cells of the central nervous system, are known to maintain homeostasis through the phagocytic clearance of protein aggregates and cellular debris. In this study, RNA sequencing analysis and live cell functional screens are employed to uncover microglial genetic modifiers related to AD. Lyzl4 is identified, which encodes a c-type lysozyme-like enzyme primarily localized to microglial lysosomes, as a gene significantly upregulated in AD microglia with aging and propose that Lyzl4 upregulation acts as a positive regulator of Aβ clearance. Furthermore, it is found that Lyzl4 overexpression boosts Aβ clearance both in vitro and in vivo, underscoring its potential for mitigating Aβ burden. These novel insights position Lyzl4 as a promising therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease, paving the way for further exploration into potential AD treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Pan
- Department of PathologyStanford University School of MedicinePalo AltoCA94305USA
| | - Jie Zhong
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Neuronal Structural BiologyBiomedical Research InstituteShenzhen Peking University – The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical CenterShenzhenGuangdong Province518036China
- Department of Systems BiologySchool of Life SciencesSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenGuangdong Province518055China
| | - Ji Geng
- Department of PathologyStanford University School of MedicinePalo AltoCA94305USA
| | - Jane Oberhauser
- Department of PathologyStanford University School of MedicinePalo AltoCA94305USA
- Neuroscience Graduate ProgramUniversity of CaliforniaSan FranciscoSan FranciscoCA94143USA
| | - Shihua Shi
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research (FMI)Basel4056Switzerland
| | - Jun Wan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Neuronal Structural BiologyBiomedical Research InstituteShenzhen Peking University – The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical CenterShenzhenGuangdong Province518036China
- Department of NeuroscienceSchool of Life SciencesSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenGuangdong Province518055China
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13
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Salunkhe J, Ugale R. Recent updates on immunotherapy in neurodegenerative diseases. Brain Res 2024; 1845:149205. [PMID: 39197568 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2024.149205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegeneration is a progressive event leading to specific neuronal loss due to the accumulation of aberrant proteins. These pathologic forms of proteins further worsen and interfere with normal physiologic mechanisms, which can lead to abnormal proliferation of immune cells and subsequent inflammatory cascades and ultimately neuronal loss. Recently, immunotherapies targeting abnormal, pathologic forms of protein have shown a promising approach to modify the progression of neurodegeneration. Recent advances in immunotherapy have led to the development of novel antibodies against the proteinopathies which can eradicate aggregations of protein as evident from preclinical and clinical studies. Nonetheless, only a few of them have successfully received clinical approval, while others have been discontinued due to a lack of clinical efficacy endpoints. The current review discusses the status of investigational antibodies under clinical trials, their targets for therapeutic action, and evidence for failure or success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jotiram Salunkhe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur 440033, India
| | - Rajesh Ugale
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur 440033, India.
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14
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Pashaei S, Shabani S, Mohammadi S, Morozova-Roche LA, Salari N, Rahimi Z, Khodarahmi R. Differential Expression of Neurodegeneration-Related Genes in SH-SY5Y Neuroblastoma Cells Under the Influence of Cyclophilin A: Could the Enzyme be a Likely Trigger and Therapeutic Target for Alzheimer's Disease? Neurochem Res 2024; 50:47. [PMID: 39636462 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-024-04253-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2024] [Revised: 10/08/2024] [Accepted: 10/23/2024] [Indexed: 12/07/2024]
Abstract
The function and mechanism of Cyclophilin A (CypA) in modulating gene expression associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) remain unclear. This multifunctional protein is found to be elevated in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of individuals at risk for AD. The cytotoxic effects of CypA, including both wild-type and the mutant R55A, were assessed using the MTT assay. Prior to this evaluation, the purified recombinant protein was validated through enzymatic activity assays and western blot analysis. Following treatment with CypA and transient transfection using the CypA construct, real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blotting were conducted to analyze the expression of factors involved in various signaling pathways, with an emphasis on inflammation, cell death, and intercellular communication. The findings indicate that CypA has a significant impact on the gene expression of factors associated with inflammation and the progression of AD in SH-SY5Y cells. It can be concluded that CypA is capable of regulating gene expression in SH-SY5Y cells, either in a manner dependent on or independent of its enzymatic activity. Additionally, the influence of this multifunctional protein on gene expression is contingent upon the specific site of action, as well as the dosage and duration of exposure to the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Pashaei
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Sasan Shabani
- Medical Biology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soheila Mohammadi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | | | - Nader Salari
- Department of Biostatics, School of Public Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Zohreh Rahimi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Reza Khodarahmi
- Medical Biology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
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15
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Xia X, Wei Y, Huang Q, Zhou Y, Wang X, Shi Y, Yang X, Yang W, Zhang Y, Lei T, Huang Y, Li H, Qin M, Gao H. Counteracting Alzheimer's disease via normalizing neurovascular unit with a self-regulated multi-functional nano-modulator. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:5464-5478. [PMID: 39807324 PMCID: PMC11725031 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2024.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2025] Open
Abstract
The neurovascular unit (NVU) is highly responsible for cerebral homeostasis and its dysfunction emerges as a critical contributor to Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. Hence, rescuing NVU dysfunction might be a viable approach to AD treatments. Here, we fabricated a self-regulated muti-functional nano-modulator (siR/PIO@RP) that can intelligently navigate to damaged blood-brain barrier and release therapeutical cargoes for synergetic AD therapy. The resulting siR/PIO@RP enables self-regulation of its distribution in accordance with the physio/pathological state (low/high RAGE expression) of the target site via a feedback loop. siR/PIO@RP is capable of performing intricate tasks and goes beyond the capabilities of single-target therapeutic agents utilized in AD therapy, such as reducing cerebral Aβ load, relieving neuroinflammation, and alleviating the dysfunction of NVU. Overall, the current study provides proof of concept that normalizing NVU holds promise as a means of alleviating AD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Xia
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Mental Health Center and National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ya Wei
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Mental Health Center and National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qianqian Huang
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Mental Health Center and National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Mental Health Center and National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiaorong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Mental Health Center and National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yulong Shi
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Mental Health Center and National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiaotong Yang
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Mental Health Center and National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wenqin Yang
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Mental Health Center and National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yiwei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Mental Health Center and National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ting Lei
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Mental Health Center and National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yuan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Mental Health Center and National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hanmei Li
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Meng Qin
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Mental Health Center and National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Huile Gao
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Mental Health Center and National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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16
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He K, Zhao Z, Zhang J, Li D, Wang S, Liu Q. Cholesterol Metabolism in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Antioxid Redox Signal 2024; 41:1051-1072. [PMID: 38842175 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2024.0674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Significance: Cholesterol plays a crucial role in the brain, where it is highly concentrated and tightly regulated to support normal brain functions. It serves as a vital component of cell membranes, ensuring their integrity, and acts as a key regulator of various brain processes. Dysregulation of cholesterol metabolism in the brain has been linked to impaired brain function and the onset of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease. Recent Advances: A significant advancement has been the identification of astrocyte-derived apoliprotein E as a key regulator of de novo cholesterol biosynthesis in neurons, providing insights into how extracellular signals influence neuronal cholesterol levels. In addition, the development of antibody-based therapies, particularly for AD, presents promising opportunities for therapeutic interventions. Critical Issues: Despite significant research, the association between cholesterol and neurodegenerative diseases remains inconclusive. It is crucial to distinguish between plasma cholesterol and brain cholesterol, as these pools are relatively independent. This differentiation should be considered when evaluating statin-based treatment approaches. Furthermore, assessing not only the total cholesterol content in the brain but also its distribution among different types of brain cells is essential. Future Direction: Establishing a causal link between changes in brain/plasma cholesterol levels and the onset of brain dysfunction/neurodegenerative diseases remains a key objective. In addition, conducting cell-specific analyses of cholesterol homeostasis in various types of brain cells under pathological conditions will enhance our understanding of cholesterol metabolism in neurodegenerative diseases. Manipulating cholesterol levels to restore homeostasis may represent a novel approach for alleviating neurological symptoms. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 41, 1051-1072.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keqiang He
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China
| | - Juan Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Dingfeng Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Sheng Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Diseases, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Neurodegenerative Disorder Research Center, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Biomedical Aging Research, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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17
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Liu S, Li X, Fan P, Gu Y, Yang A, Wang W, Zhou L, Chen H, Zheng F, Lin J, Xu Z, Zhao Q. The potential role of transcription factor sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs) in Alzheimer's disease. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 180:117575. [PMID: 39442239 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2024] [Revised: 10/10/2024] [Accepted: 10/14/2024] [Indexed: 10/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs) are a series of cholesterol-related transcription factors. Their role in regulating brain cholesterol biosynthesis, amyloid accumulation, and tau tangles formation has been intensively studied in protein-protein interaction analysis based on genes in clinical databases. SREBPs play an important role in maintaining cholesterol homeostasis in the brain. There are three subtypes of SREBPs, SREBP-1a stimulates the expression of genes related to cholesterol and fatty acid synthesis, SREBP-1c stimulates adipogenesis, and SREBP-2 stimulates cholesterol synthase and LDL receptors. SREBP-2 is activated in response to cholesterol depletion and stimulates a compensatory upregulation of cholesterol uptake and synthesis. Previous studies have shown that inhibition of SREBP-2 reduces cholesterol and amyloid accumulation, and new research suggests that SREBPs play a multifaceted role in Alzheimer's disease. Here, we highlight the importance of SREBPs in AD, in terms of multiple pathways regulating cholesterol in the brain, and primarily demonstrate the potential of SREBP-2 inhibitors. There was a trend towards a significant increase in the expression levels of different SREBP isoforms in AD patients compared to healthy controls. Therefore, there is a close link between SREBPs and AD, and this review analyses the potential role of SREBPs in the treatment of AD. In addition, we systematically reviewed the research progress of SREBPs in AD, and this review will provide more innovative insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of AD and new strategies for drug development in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Liu
- Teaching Hospital of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110016, PR China.
| | - Xinzhu Li
- Teaching Hospital of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110016, PR China.
| | - Panpan Fan
- Teaching Hospital of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110016, PR China.
| | - Yujia Gu
- Teaching Hospital of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110016, PR China.
| | - Aizhu Yang
- Teaching Hospital of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110016, PR China.
| | - Weiyi Wang
- Teaching Hospital of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110016, PR China.
| | - Lijun Zhou
- Teaching Hospital of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110016, PR China.
| | - Huanhua Chen
- Teaching Hospital of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110016, PR China.
| | - Fangyuan Zheng
- Teaching Hospital of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110016, PR China.
| | - Junjie Lin
- Teaching Hospital of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110016, PR China.
| | - Zihua Xu
- Teaching Hospital of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110016, PR China.
| | - Qingchun Zhao
- Teaching Hospital of Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang 110016, PR China.
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18
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Soria-Tobar L, Román-Valero L, Sebastián-Serrano Á, Aivar P, Álvarez-Castelao B, Díaz-Hernández M. Blockade of brain alkaline phosphatase efficiently reduces amyloid-β plaque burden and associated cognitive impairment. Alzheimers Res Ther 2024; 16:233. [PMID: 39438925 PMCID: PMC11494749 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-024-01600-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 10/09/2024] [Indexed: 10/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease. Three new drugs for AD based on monoclonal antibodies against the amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) have recently been approved because they favor the reduction of the burden of senile plaque in the AD patient's brain. Nonetheless, both drugs have very limited applicability and benefits and show several side effects. These limitations invite us to find alternative strategies for treating patients with AD. Here, we explored whether tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP), an ectoenzyme upregulated in the brain of AD patients and whose inhibition has beneficial effects on tau-induced pathology, is also efficient in reducing senile plaque burden. METHODS To evaluate whether TNAP may reduce cerebral senile plaque loading and Aβ-related toxicity, we use both pharmacological and genetic approaches. We analyze postmortem samples from human AD patients, APP/PS1 mice (a mouse model that mimics amyloid pathology observed in AD patients) treated or not with TNAP inhibitors, and the newly generated transgenic mouse line, TNAP-deficient APP/PS1 mice. RESULTS For the first time, we describe that genetic or pharmacological blockade of TNAP effectively reduces senile plaque burden by promoting its clearance, which leads to amelioration of cognitive impairment caused by Aβ-induced toxicity. These beneficial effects of TNAP inhibition occur concomitantly with higher microglial recruitment toward the senile plaque and increased microglial phagocytic capacity of Aβ by a mechanism involving metalloprotease-depending osteopontin processing. In addition, we also found that TNAP blockade favors LRP1-mediated transport of Aβ through the BBB. CONCLUSIONS Here, we have shown that TNAP inhibition effectively reduces brain senile plaque burden and associated behavioral defects. Furthermore, given that we had previously reported that TNAP blockade also ameliorates Tau-induced neurotoxicity and increases lifespan of P301S tauopathy mouse model, we can state that TNAP blockade may be a novel and efficient therapy for treating patients with AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Soria-Tobar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Veterinary School, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, Madrid, 28040, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Román-Valero
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Veterinary School, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Álvaro Sebastián-Serrano
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical School, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal, S/N, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Paloma Aivar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Veterinary School, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Beatriz Álvarez-Castelao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Veterinary School, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, Madrid, 28040, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Díaz-Hernández
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Veterinary School, Complutense University of Madrid, Avda. Puerta de Hierro S/N, Madrid, 28040, Spain.
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain.
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19
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Kang S, Lee J, Ali DN, Choi S, Nesbitt J, Min PH, Trushina E, Choi DS. Low to moderate ethanol exposure reduces astrocyte-induced neuroinflammatory signaling and cognitive decline in presymptomatic APP/PS1 mice. Sci Rep 2024; 14:23989. [PMID: 39402264 PMCID: PMC11473946 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-75202-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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder has been associated with the development of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, recent studies demonstrate that moderate alcohol consumption may be protective against dementia and cognitive decline. We examined astrocyte function, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1), and the NF-κB p65 and IKK-α/β signaling pathways in modulating neuroinflammation and amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition. We assessed apolipoprotein E (ApoE) in the brain of APP/PS1 mice using IHC and ELISA in response to low to moderate ethanol exposure (MEE). First, to confirm the intracerebral distribution of ApoE, we co-stained with GFAP, a marker for astrocytes that biosynthesize ApoE. We sought to investigate whether the ethanol-induced upregulation of LRP1 could potentially inhibit the activity of IL-1β and TNF-α induced IKK-α/β towards NF-κB p65, resulting in a reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines. To evaluate the actual Aβ load in the brains of APP/PS1 mice, we performed with a specific antibody Aβ (Thioflavin S) on both air- and ethanol-exposed groups, subsequently analyzing Aβ levels. We also measured glucose uptake using 18F- fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-positron emission tomography (PET). Finally, we investigated whether MEE induced cognitive and memory changes using the Y maze, noble object recognition test, and Morris water maze. Our findings demonstrate that MEE reduced astrocytic glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ApoE levels in the cortex and hippocampus in presymptomatic APP/PS1 mice. Interestingly, increased LRP1 protein expression was accompanied by dampening the IKK-α/β-NF-κB p65 pathway, resulting in decreased IL-1β and TNF-α levels in male mice. Notably, female mice show reduced levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4, and IL-10 without altering IL-1β and TNF-α concentrations. In both males and females, Aβ plaques, a hallmark of AD, were reduced in the cortex and hippocampus of APP/PS1 mice exposed to ethanol starting at pre-symptomatic stage. Consistently, MEE increased FDG-PET-based brain activities and normalized cognitive and memory deficits in the APP/PS1 mice. Our findings suggest that MEE may benefit AD pathology via modulating LRP1 expression, potentially reducing neuroinflammation and attenuating Aβ deposition. Our study implies that reduced astrocyte-derived ApoE and LDL cholesterol levels are critical for attenuating AD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinwoo Kang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Clinic College of Medicine, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
- Department of Pharmacology College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, 22 Soonchunhyango-ro, Ansan, Chungcheongnam-do, 31508, South Korea
| | - Jeyeon Lee
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Dina N Ali
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Clinic College of Medicine, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Sun Choi
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Clinic College of Medicine, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Jarred Nesbitt
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Paul H Min
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Eugenia Trushina
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Clinic College of Medicine, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Doo-Sup Choi
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Clinic College of Medicine, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
- Neuroscience Program, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
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20
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García-Pupo L, Crouzier L, Bencomo-Martínez A, Meunier J, Morilleau A, Delprat B, Carrazana MS, Menéndez Soto del Valle R, Maurice T, Rodríguez-Tanty C. Amylovis-201 is a new dual-target ligand, acting as an anti-amyloidogenic compound and a potent agonist of the σ 1 chaperone protein. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:4345-4359. [PMID: 39525570 PMCID: PMC11544189 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2024.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The aggregation of Amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides is associated with neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD). We previously identified novel naphtalene derivatives, including the lead compound Amylovis-201, able to form thermodynamically stable complexes with Aβ species, peptides and fibrils. As the drug showed a chemical scaffold coherent for an effective interaction with the σ 1 receptor chaperone and as σ 1 agonists are currently developed as potent neuroprotectants in AD, we investigated the pharmacological action of Amylovis-201 on the σ 1 receptor. We report that Amylovis-201 is a potent σ 1 agonist by several in silico, in vitro and in vivo assays and that its anti-amnesic and neuroprotective effects involve a pharmacological action at σ 1 receptors. Furthermore, we show for the first time that classical σ 1 receptor agonist (PRE-084), and antagonist (NE-100) are able to interact and disaggregate Aβ 25-35 fibrils. Interestingly, Amylovis-201 was the only compound inhibiting Aβ 25-35 aggregates formation. Our results therefore highlight a dual action of Amylovis-201 as anti-aggregating agent and σ 1 receptor agonist that could be highly effective in long-term treatment against neurodegeneration in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura García-Pupo
- Department of Neurochemistry, Cuban Center for Neurosciences, Cubanacan, Playa, Havana CP 11600, Cuba
| | - Lucie Crouzier
- MMDN, University of Montpellier, EPHE, INSERM, Montpellier 34095, France
| | - Alberto Bencomo-Martínez
- Department of Neurochemistry, Cuban Center for Neurosciences, Cubanacan, Playa, Havana CP 11600, Cuba
| | - Johann Meunier
- MMDN, University of Montpellier, EPHE, INSERM, Montpellier 34095, France
| | - Axelle Morilleau
- MMDN, University of Montpellier, EPHE, INSERM, Montpellier 34095, France
| | - Benjamin Delprat
- MMDN, University of Montpellier, EPHE, INSERM, Montpellier 34095, France
| | - Marquiza Sablón Carrazana
- Department of Neurochemistry, Cuban Center for Neurosciences, Cubanacan, Playa, Havana CP 11600, Cuba
| | | | - Tangui Maurice
- MMDN, University of Montpellier, EPHE, INSERM, Montpellier 34095, France
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21
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Chen F, Zhao J, Meng F, He F, Ni J, Fu Y. The vascular contribution of apolipoprotein E to Alzheimer's disease. Brain 2024; 147:2946-2965. [PMID: 38748848 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awae156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease, the most prevalent form of dementia, imposes a substantial societal burden. The persistent inadequacy of disease-modifying drugs targeting amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles suggests the contribution of alternative pathogenic mechanisms. A frequently overlooked aspect is cerebrovascular dysfunction, which may manifest early in the progression of Alzheimer's disease pathology. Mounting evidence underscores the pivotal role of the apolipoprotein E gene, particularly the apolipoprotein ε4 allele as the strongest genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer's disease, in the cerebrovascular pathology associated with Alzheimer's disease. In this review, we examine the evidence elucidating the cerebrovascular impact of both central and peripheral apolipoprotein E on the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. We present a novel three-hit hypothesis, outlining potential mechanisms that shed light on the intricate relationship among different pathogenic events. Finally, we discuss prospective therapeutics targeting the cerebrovascular pathology associated with apolipoprotein E and explore their implications for future research endeavours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Chen
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Fanxia Meng
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Fangping He
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Jie Ni
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Yuan Fu
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
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22
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Kim SY, Cheon J. Senescence-associated microvascular endothelial dysfunction: A focus on the blood-brain and blood-retinal barriers. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 100:102446. [PMID: 39111407 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) and blood-retinal barrier (BRB) constitute critical physiochemical interfaces, precisely orchestrating the bidirectional communication between the brain/retina and blood. Increased permeability or leakage of these barriers has been demonstrably linked to age-related vascular and parenchymal damage. While it has been suggested that the gradual aging process may coincide with disruptions in these barriers, this phenomenon is significantly exacerbated in individuals with age-related neurodegenerative disorders (ARND). This review focuses on the microvascular endothelium, a key constituent of BBB and BRB, highlighting the impact of endothelial senescence on barrier dysfunction and exploring recent discoveries regarding core pathways implicated in its breakdown. Subsequently, we address the "vascular senescence hypothesis" for ARND, with a particular emphasis on Alzheimer's disease and age-related macular degeneration, centered on endothelial senescence. Finally, we discuss potential senotherapeutic strategies targeting barrier dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Young Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Republic of Korea; Research Institute of Medical Science, Konkuk University, Republic of Korea; IBST, Konkuk University, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jaejoung Cheon
- Department of Biochemistry, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Republic of Korea
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23
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Matsuo K, Nshihara H. Rebuilding insight into the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease through new blood-brain barrier models. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1954-1960. [PMID: 38227521 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.390978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier is a unique function of the microvasculature in the brain parenchyma that maintains homeostasis in the central nervous system. Blood-brain barrier breakdown is a common pathology in various neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. Traditionally, it has been considered a consequence of neuroinflammation or neurodegeneration, but recent advanced imaging techniques and detailed studies in animal models show that blood-brain barrier breakdown occurs early in the disease process and may precede neuronal loss. Thus, the blood-brain barrier is attractive as a potential therapeutic target for neurological diseases that lack effective therapeutics. To elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying blood-brain barrier breakdown and translate them into therapeutic strategies for neurological diseases, there is a growing demand for experimental models of human origin that allow for functional assessments. Recently, several human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived blood-brain barrier models have been established and various in vitro blood-brain barrier models using microdevices have been proposed. Especially in the Alzheimer's disease field, the human evidence for blood-brain barrier dysfunction has been demonstrated and human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived blood-brain barrier models have suggested the putative molecular mechanisms of pathological blood-brain barrier. In this review, we summarize recent evidence of blood-brain barrier dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease from pathological analyses, imaging studies, animal models, and stem cell sources. Additionally, we discuss the potential future directions for blood-brain barrier research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinya Matsuo
- Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Hideaki Nshihara
- Department of Neurotherapeutics, Yamaguchi University, Ube, Japan
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24
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Liu N, Haziyihan A, Zhao W, Chen Y, Chao H. Trajectory of brain-derived amyloid beta in Alzheimer's disease: where is it coming from and where is it going? Transl Neurodegener 2024; 13:42. [PMID: 39160618 PMCID: PMC11331646 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-024-00434-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily impacts cognitive function. Currently there are no disease-modifying treatments to stop or slow its progression. Recent studies have found that several peripheral and systemic abnormalities are associated with AD, and our understanding of how these alterations contribute to AD is becoming more apparent. In this review, we focuse on amyloid‑beta (Aβ), a major hallmark of AD, summarizing recent findings on the source of brain-derived Aβ and discussing where and how the brain-derived Aβ is cleared in vivo. Based on these findings, we propose future strategies for AD prevention and treatment, from a novel perspective on Aβ metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ni Liu
- Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | | | - Wei Zhao
- Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Hongbo Chao
- Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
- Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.
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25
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Che J, Sun Y, Deng Y, Zhang J. Blood-brain barrier disruption: a culprit of cognitive decline? Fluids Barriers CNS 2024; 21:63. [PMID: 39113115 PMCID: PMC11305076 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-024-00563-3] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Cognitive decline covers a broad spectrum of disorders, not only resulting from brain diseases but also from systemic diseases, which seriously influence the quality of life and life expectancy of patients. As a highly selective anatomical and functional interface between the brain and systemic circulation, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) plays a pivotal role in maintaining brain homeostasis and normal function. The pathogenesis underlying cognitive decline may vary, nevertheless, accumulating evidences support the role of BBB disruption as the most prevalent contributing factor. This may mainly be attributed to inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, cell senescence, oxidative/nitrosative stress and excitotoxicity. However, direct evidence showing that BBB disruption causes cognitive decline is scarce, and interestingly, manipulation of the BBB opening alone may exert beneficial or detrimental neurological effects. A broad overview of the present literature shows a close relationship between BBB disruption and cognitive decline, the risk factors of BBB disruption, as well as the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying BBB disruption. Additionally, we discussed the possible causes leading to cognitive decline by BBB disruption and potential therapeutic strategies to prevent BBB disruption or enhance BBB repair. This review aims to foster more investigations on early diagnosis, effective therapeutics, and rapid restoration against BBB disruption, which would yield better cognitive outcomes in patients with dysregulated BBB function, although their causative relationship has not yet been completely established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Che
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No.270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China
| | - Yinying Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No.270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China
| | - Yixu Deng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No.270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, No.270 Dong'An Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China.
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26
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Lau K, Kotzur R, Richter F. Blood-brain barrier alterations and their impact on Parkinson's disease pathogenesis and therapy. Transl Neurodegener 2024; 13:37. [PMID: 39075566 PMCID: PMC11285262 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-024-00430-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
There is increasing evidence for blood-brain barrier (BBB) alterations in Parkinson's disease (PD), the second most common neurodegenerative disorder with rapidly rising prevalence. Altered tight junction and transporter protein levels, accumulation of α-synuclein and increase in inflammatory processes lead to extravasation of blood molecules and vessel degeneration. This could result in a self-perpetuating pathophysiology of inflammation and BBB alteration, which contribute to neurodegeneration. Toxin exposure or α-synuclein over-expression in animal models has been shown to initiate similar pathologies, providing a platform to study underlying mechanisms and therapeutic interventions. Here we provide a comprehensive review of the current knowledge on BBB alterations in PD patients and how rodent models that replicate some of these changes can be used to study disease mechanisms. Specific challenges in assessing the BBB in patients and in healthy controls are discussed. Finally, a potential role of BBB alterations in disease pathogenesis and possible implications for therapy are explored. The interference of BBB alterations with current and novel therapeutic strategies requires more attention. Brain region-specific BBB alterations could also open up novel opportunities to target specifically vulnerable neuronal subpopulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Lau
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany
- Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hannover, Germany
| | - Rebecca Kotzur
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Franziska Richter
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany.
- Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hannover, Germany.
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27
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Petralla S, Panayotova M, Franchina E, Fricker G, Puris E. Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor-Related Protein 1 as a Potential Therapeutic Target in Alzheimer's Disease. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:948. [PMID: 39065645 PMCID: PMC11279518 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16070948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease impacting the lives of millions of people worldwide. The formation of amyloid β (Aβ) plagues in the brain is the main pathological hallmark of AD. The Aβ deposits are formed due to the imbalance between the production and Aβ clearance in the brain and across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In this respect, low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) plays a significant role by mediating both brain Aβ production and clearance. Due to its important role in AD pathogenesis, LRP1 is considered an attractive drug target for AD therapies. In the present review, we summarize the current knowledge about the role of LRP1 in AD pathogenesis as well as recent findings on changes in LRP1 expression and function in AD. Finally, we discuss the advances in utilizing LRP1 as a drug target for AD treatments as well as future perspectives on LRP1 research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Elena Puris
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Ruprecht-Karls-University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 329, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; (S.P.); (M.P.); (E.F.); (G.F.)
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28
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Singh MK, Shin Y, Ju S, Han S, Kim SS, Kang I. Comprehensive Overview of Alzheimer's Disease: Etiological Insights and Degradation Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6901. [PMID: 39000011 PMCID: PMC11241648 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25136901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder and affects millions of individuals globally. AD is associated with cognitive decline and memory loss that worsens with aging. A statistical report using U.S. data on AD estimates that approximately 6.9 million individuals suffer from AD, a number projected to surge to 13.8 million by 2060. Thus, there is a critical imperative to pinpoint and address AD and its hallmark tau protein aggregation early to prevent and manage its debilitating effects. Amyloid-β and tau proteins are primarily associated with the formation of plaques and neurofibril tangles in the brain. Current research efforts focus on degrading amyloid-β and tau or inhibiting their synthesis, particularly targeting APP processing and tau hyperphosphorylation, aiming to develop effective clinical interventions. However, navigating this intricate landscape requires ongoing studies and clinical trials to develop treatments that truly make a difference. Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) across various cohorts identified 40 loci and over 300 genes associated with AD. Despite this wealth of genetic data, much remains to be understood about the functions of these genes and their role in the disease process, prompting continued investigation. By delving deeper into these genetic associations, novel targets such as kinases, proteases, cytokines, and degradation pathways, offer new directions for drug discovery and therapeutic intervention in AD. This review delves into the intricate biological pathways disrupted in AD and identifies how genetic variations within these pathways could serve as potential targets for drug discovery and treatment strategies. Through a comprehensive understanding of the molecular underpinnings of AD, researchers aim to pave the way for more effective therapies that can alleviate the burden of this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Kumar Singh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonhwa Shin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Songhyun Ju
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunhee Han
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Soo Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Insug Kang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
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29
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van Veluw SJ, Benveniste H, Bakker ENTP, Carare RO, Greenberg SM, Iliff JJ, Lorthois S, Van Nostrand WE, Petzold GC, Shih AY, van Osch MJP. Is CAA a perivascular brain clearance disease? A discussion of the evidence to date and outlook for future studies. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:239. [PMID: 38801464 PMCID: PMC11130115 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05277-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The brain's network of perivascular channels for clearance of excess fluids and waste plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative diseases including cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). CAA is the main cause of hemorrhagic stroke in the elderly, the most common vascular comorbidity in Alzheimer's disease and also implicated in adverse events related to anti-amyloid immunotherapy. Remarkably, the mechanisms governing perivascular clearance of soluble amyloid β-a key culprit in CAA-from the brain to draining lymphatics and systemic circulation remains poorly understood. This knowledge gap is critically important to bridge for understanding the pathophysiology of CAA and accelerate development of targeted therapeutics. The authors of this review recently converged their diverse expertise in the field of perivascular physiology to specifically address this problem within the framework of a Leducq Foundation Transatlantic Network of Excellence on Brain Clearance. This review discusses the overarching goal of the consortium and explores the evidence supporting or refuting the role of impaired perivascular clearance in the pathophysiology of CAA with a focus on translating observations from rodents to humans. We also discuss the anatomical features of perivascular channels as well as the biophysical characteristics of fluid and solute transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne J van Veluw
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Helene Benveniste
- Department of Anesthesiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Erik N T P Bakker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location AMC, Amsterdam Neuroscience Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roxana O Carare
- Clinical Neurosciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Steven M Greenberg
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jeffrey J Iliff
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sylvie Lorthois
- Institut de Mécanique Des Fluides de Toulouse, IMFT, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France
| | - William E Van Nostrand
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science, George & Anne Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
| | - Gabor C Petzold
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Disease, Bonn, Germany
- Division of Vascular Neurology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Andy Y Shih
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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30
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Avila A, Zhang SL. A circadian clock regulates the blood-brain barrier across phylogeny. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2024; 126:241-287. [PMID: 39029975 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2024.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
As the central regulatory system of an organism, the brain is responsible for overseeing a wide variety of physiological processes essential for an organism's survival. To maintain the environment necessary for neurons to function, the brain requires highly selective uptake and elimination of specific molecules through the blood-brain barrier (BBB). As an organism's activities vary throughout the day, how does the BBB adapt to meet the changing needs of the brain? A mechanism is through temporal regulation of BBB permeability via its circadian clock, which will be the focal point of this chapter. To comprehend the circadian clock's role within the BBB, we will first examine the anatomy of the BBB and the transport mechanisms enabling it to fulfill its role as a restrictive barrier. Next, we will define the circadian clock, and the discussion will encompass an introduction to circadian rhythms, the Transcription-Translation Feedback Loop (TTFL) as the mechanistic basis of circadian timekeeping, and the organization of tissue clocks found in organisms. Then, we will cover the role of the circadian rhythms in regulating the cellular mechanisms and functions of the BBB. We discuss the implications of this regulation in influencing sleep behavior, the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, and finally drug delivery for treatment of neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Avila
- Cell Biology Department, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Shirley L Zhang
- Cell Biology Department, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States.
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31
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Niazi SK, Magoola M. Transcytosis-Driven Treatment of Neurodegenerative Disorders by mRNA-Expressed Antibody-Transferrin Conjugates. Biomedicines 2024; 12:851. [PMID: 38672205 PMCID: PMC11048317 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12040851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The recent setbacks in the withdrawal and approval delays of antibody treatments of neurodegenerative disorders (NDs), attributed to their poor entry across the blood-brain barrier (BBB), emphasize the need to bring novel approaches to enhance the entry across the BBB. One such approach is conjugating the antibodies that bind brain proteins responsible for NDs with the transferrin molecule. This glycoprotein transports iron into cells, connecting with the transferrin receptors (TfRs), piggybacking an antibody-transferrin complex that can subsequently release the antibody in the brain or stay connected while letting the antibody bind. This process increases the concentration of antibodies in the brain, enhancing therapeutic efficacy with targeted delivery and minimum systemic side effects. Currently, this approach is experimented with using drug-transferring conjugates assembled in vitro. Still, a more efficient and safer alternative is to express the conjugate using mRNA technology, as detailed in this paper. This approach will expedite safer discoveries that can be made available at a much lower cost than the recombinant process with in vitro conjugation. Most importantly, the recommendations made in this paper may save the antibodies against the NDs that seem to be failing despite their regulatory approvals.
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32
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Lerose V, Ponticelli M, Benedetto N, Carlucci V, Lela L, Tzvetkov NT, Milella L. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, a Potential Source of Phytochemicals for Treating Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Systematic Review. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:771. [PMID: 38592845 PMCID: PMC10976061 DOI: 10.3390/plants13060771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal is a medicinal plant belonging to the traditional Indian medical system, showing various therapeutic effects such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, and hepatoprotective activity. Of great interest is W. somnifera's potential beneficial effect against neurodegenerative diseases, since the authorized medicinal treatments can only delay disease progression and provide symptomatic relief and are not without side effects. A systematic search of PubMed and Scopus databases was performed to identify preclinical and clinical studies focusing on the applications of W. somnifera in preventing neurodegenerative diseases. Only English articles and those containing the keywords (Withania somnifera AND "neurodegenerative diseases", "neuroprotective effects", "Huntington", "Parkinson", "Alzheimer", "Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis", "neurological disorders") in the title or abstract were considered. Reviews, editorials, letters, meta-analyses, conference papers, short surveys, and book chapters were not considered. Selected articles were grouped by pathologies and summarized, considering the mechanism of action. The quality assessment and the risk of bias were performed using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions checklist. This review uses a systematic approach to summarize the results from 60 investigations to highlight the potential role of W. somnifera and its specialized metabolites in treating or preventing neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Lerose
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, V.le Ateneo Lucano 10, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (V.L.); (N.B.); (V.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Maria Ponticelli
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, V.le Ateneo Lucano 10, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (V.L.); (N.B.); (V.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Nadia Benedetto
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, V.le Ateneo Lucano 10, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (V.L.); (N.B.); (V.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Vittorio Carlucci
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, V.le Ateneo Lucano 10, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (V.L.); (N.B.); (V.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Ludovica Lela
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, V.le Ateneo Lucano 10, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (V.L.); (N.B.); (V.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Nikolay T. Tzvetkov
- Institute of Molecular Biology “Roumen Tsanev”, Department of Biochemical Pharmacology & Drug Design, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Bl. 21, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Luigi Milella
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, V.le Ateneo Lucano 10, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (V.L.); (N.B.); (V.C.); (L.L.)
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Abutarboush R, Reed E, Chen Y, Gu M, Watson C, Kawoos U, Statz JK, Tschiffely AE, Ciarlone S, Perez-Garcia G, Gama Sosa MA, de Gasperi R, Stone JR, Elder GA, Ahlers ST. Exposure to Low-Intensity Blast Increases Clearance of Brain Amyloid Beta. J Neurotrauma 2024; 41:685-704. [PMID: 38183627 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2023.0284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The long-term effects of exposure to blast overpressure are an important health concern in military personnel. Increase in amyloid beta (Aβ) has been documented after non-blast traumatic brain injury (TBI) and may contribute to neuropathology and an increased risk for Alzheimer's disease. We have shown that Aβ levels decrease following exposure to a low-intensity blast overpressure event. To further explore this observation, we examined the effects of a single 37 kPa (5.4 psi) blast exposure on brain Aβ levels, production, and clearance mechanisms in the acute (24 h) and delayed (28 days) phases post-blast exposure in an experimental rat model. Aβ and, notably, the highly neurotoxic detergent soluble Aβ42 form, was reduced at 24 h but not 28 days after blast exposure. This reduction was not associated with changes in the levels of Aβ oligomers, expression levels of amyloid precursor protein (APP), or increase in enzymes involved in the amyloidogenic cleavage of APP, the β- and ϒ-secretases BACE1 and presenilin-1, respectively. The levels of ADAM17 α-secretase (also known as tumor necrosis factor α-converting enzyme) decreased, concomitant with the reduction in brain Aβ. Additionally, significant increases in brain levels of the endothelial transporter, low-density related protein 1 (LRP1), and enhancement in co-localization of aquaporin-4 (AQP4) to perivascular astrocytic end-feet were observed 24 h after blast exposure. These findings suggest that exposure to low-intensity blast may enhance endothelial clearance of Aβ by LRP1-mediated transcytosis and alter AQP4-aided glymphatic clearance. Collectively, the data demonstrate that low-intensity blast alters enzymatic, transvascular, and perivascular clearance of Aβ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rania Abutarboush
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Eileen Reed
- Parsons Corporation, Centreville, Virginia, USA
| | - Ye Chen
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Ming Gu
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Usmah Kawoos
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Jonathan K Statz
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Anna E Tschiffely
- Department of Neurotrauma, Naval Medical Research Center, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Stephanie Ciarlone
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Georgina Perez-Garcia
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Research and Development Service, James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Miguel A Gama Sosa
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- General Medical Research Service, James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Rita de Gasperi
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - James R Stone
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Gregory A Elder
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Mount Sinai Alzheimer's Disease Research Center and Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
- Neurology Service, James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Stephen T Ahlers
- Department of Neurotrauma, Naval Medical Research Center, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
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Singh B, Day CM, Abdella S, Garg S. Alzheimer's disease current therapies, novel drug delivery systems and future directions for better disease management. J Control Release 2024; 367:402-424. [PMID: 38286338 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.01.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), is a neurodegenerative disorder that escalates with time, exerting a significant impact on physical and mental health and leading to death. The prevalence of AD is progressively rising along with its associated economic burden and necessitates effective therapeutic approaches in the near future. This review paper aims to offer an insightful overview of disease pathogenesis, current FDA-approved drugs, and drugs in different clinical phases. It also explores innovative formulations and drug delivery strategies, focusing on nanocarriers and long-acting medications (LAMs) to enhance treatment efficacy and patient adherence. The review also emphasizes preclinical evidence related to nanocarriers and their potential to improve drug bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics parameters, while also highlighting their ability to minimize systemic side effects. By providing a comprehensive analysis, this review furnishes valuable insights into different pathophysiological mechanisms for future drug development. It aims to inform the development of treatment strategies and innovative formulation approaches for delivering existing molecules in Alzheimer's disease, ultimately striving to improve patient compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baljinder Singh
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Candace M Day
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Sadikalmahdi Abdella
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Sanjay Garg
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia.
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35
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Cooper CG, Kafetzis KN, Patabendige A, Tagalakis AD. Blood-brain barrier disruption in dementia: Nano-solutions as new treatment options. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:1359-1385. [PMID: 38154805 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Candidate drugs targeting the central nervous system (CNS) demonstrate extremely low clinical success rates, with more than 98% of potential treatments being discontinued due to poor blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Neurological conditions were shown to be the second leading cause of death globally in 2016, with the number of people currently affected by neurological disorders increasing rapidly. This increasing trend, along with an inability to develop BBB permeating drugs, is presenting a major hurdle in the treatment of CNS-related disorders, like dementia. To overcome this, it is necessary to understand the structure and function of the BBB, including the transport of molecules across its interface in both healthy and pathological conditions. The use of CNS drug carriers is rapidly gaining popularity in CNS research due to their ability to target BBB transport systems. Further research and development of drug delivery vehicles could provide essential information that can be used to develop novel treatments for neurological conditions. This review discusses the BBB and its transport systems and evaluates the potential of using nanoparticle-based delivery systems as drug carriers for CNS disease with a focus on dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Adjanie Patabendige
- Department of Biology, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, UK
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Aristides D Tagalakis
- Department of Biology, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, UK
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
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36
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Chaves JCS, Dando SJ, White AR, Oikari LE. Blood-brain barrier transporters: An overview of function, dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease and strategies for treatment. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:166967. [PMID: 38008230 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain-barrier (BBB) has a major function in maintaining brain homeostasis by regulating the entry of molecules from the blood to the brain. Key players in BBB function are BBB transporters which are highly expressed in brain endothelial cells (BECs) and critical in mediating the exchange of nutrients and waste products. BBB transporters can also influence drug delivery into the brain by inhibiting or facilitating the entry of brain targeting therapeutics for the treatment of brain disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Recent studies have shown that AD is associated with a disrupted BBB and transporter dysfunction, although their roles in the development in AD are not fully understand. Modulation of BBB transporter activity may pose a novel approach to enhance the delivery of drugs to the brain for enhanced treatment of AD. In this review, we will give an overview of key functions of BBB transporters and known changes in AD. In addition, we will discuss current strategies for transporter modulation for enhanced drug delivery into the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana C S Chaves
- Mental Health and Neuroscience Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, QUT, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Samantha J Dando
- Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Anthony R White
- Mental Health and Neuroscience Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, QUT, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Lotta E Oikari
- Mental Health and Neuroscience Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, QUT, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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Li Z, Wang H, Yin Y. Peripheral inflammation is a potential etiological factor in Alzheimer's disease. Rev Neurosci 2024; 35:99-120. [PMID: 37602685 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2023-0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Peripheral inflammation could constitute a risk factor for AD. This review summarizes the research related to peripheral inflammation that appears to have a relationship with Alzheimer's disease. We find there are significant associations between AD and peripheral infection induced by various pathogens, including herpes simplex virus type 1, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, human immunodeficiency virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Helicobacter pylori, and Toxoplasma gondii. Chronic inflammatory diseases are also reported to contribute to the pathophysiology of AD. The mechanisms by which peripheral inflammation affects the pathophysiology of AD are complex. Pathogen-derived neurotoxic molecule composition, disrupted BBB, and dysfunctional neurogenesis may all play a role in peripheral inflammation, promoting the development of AD. Anti-pathogenic medications and anti-inflammatory treatments are reported to decrease the risk of AD. Studies that could improve understanding the associations between AD and peripheral inflammation are needed. If our assumption is correct, early intervention against inflammation may be a potential method of preventing and treating AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyuan Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Kongjiang Road 1665, Yangpu District, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Kongjiang Road 1665, Yangpu District, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yafu Yin
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Kongjiang Road 1665, Yangpu District, Shanghai 200092, China
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38
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Majou D, Dermenghem AL. Effects of DHA (omega-3 fatty acid) and estradiol on amyloid β-peptide regulation in the brain. Brain Res 2024; 1823:148681. [PMID: 37992797 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
In the early stages of sporadic Alzheimer's disease (SAD), there is a strong correlation between memory impairment and cortical levels of soluble amyloid-β peptide oligomers (Aβ). It has become clear that Aβ disrupt glutamatergic synaptic function, which can in turn lead to the characteristic cognitive deficits of SAD, but the actual pathways are still not well understood. This opinion article describes the pathogenic mechanisms underlying cerebral amyloidosis. These mechanisms are dependent on the amyloid precursor protein and concern the synthesis of Aβ peptides with competition between the non-amyloidogenic pathway and the amyloidogenic pathway (i.e. a competition between the ADAM10 and BACE1 enzymes), on the one hand, and the various processes of Aβ residue clearance, on the other hand. This clearance mobilizes both endopeptidases (NEP, and IDE) and removal transporters across the blood-brain barrier (LRP1, ABCB1, and RAGE). Lipidated ApoE also plays a major role in all processes. The disturbance of these pathways induces an accumulation of Aβ. The description of the mechanisms reveals two key molecules in particular: (i) free estradiol, which has genomic and non-genomic action, and (ii) free DHA as a preferential ligand of PPARα-RXRα and PPARɣ-RXRα heterodimers. DHA and free estradiol are also self-regulating, and act in synergy. When a certain level of chronic DHA and free estradiol deficiency is reached, a permanent imbalance is established in the central nervous system. The consequences of these deficits are revealed in particular by the presence of Aβ peptide deposits, as well as other markers of the etiology of SAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Didier Majou
- ACTIA, 149, rue de Bercy, 75595 Paris Cedex 12, France.
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Shi M, Chu F, Zhu F, Zhu J. Peripheral blood amyloid-β involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease via impacting on peripheral innate immune cells. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:5. [PMID: 38178136 PMCID: PMC10765910 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-023-03003-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
A key pathological factor of Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most prevalent form of age-related dementia in the world, is excessive β-amyloid protein (Aβ) in extracellular aggregation in the brain. And in the peripheral blood, a large amount of Aβ is derived from platelets. So far, the causality between the levels of peripheral blood Aβ and its aggregation in the brain, particularly the role of the peripheral blood Aβ in the pathology of AD, is still unclear. And the relation between the peripheral blood Aβ and tau tangles of brain, another crucial pathologic factor contributing to the pathogenesis of AD, is also ambiguous. More recently, the anti-Aβ monoclonal antibodies are approved for treatment of AD patients through declining the peripheral blood Aβ mechanism of action to enhance plasma and central nervous system (CNS) Aβ clearance, leading to a decrease Aβ burden in brain and improving cognitive function, which clearly indicates that the levels of the peripheral blood Aβ impacted on the Aβ burden in brain and involved in the pathogenesis of AD. In addition, the role of peripheral innate immune cells in AD remains mostly unknown and the results obtained were controversial. In the present review, we summarize recent studies on the roles of peripheral blood Aβ and the peripheral innate immune cells in the pathogenesis of AD. Finally, based on the published data and our own work, we believe that peripheral blood Aβ plays an important role in the development and progression of AD by impacting on the peripheral innate immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingchao Shi
- Neuroscience Center, Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences & Society, Division of Neurogeriatrcs, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fengna Chu
- Neuroscience Center, Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences & Society, Division of Neurogeriatrcs, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Feiqi Zhu
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences & Society, Division of Neurogeriatrcs, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Cognitive Impairment Ward of Neurology Department, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Medical College, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Jie Zhu
- Neuroscience Center, Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences & Society, Division of Neurogeriatrcs, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Xu DC, Sas-Nowosielska H, Donahue G, Huang H, Pourshafie N, Good CR, Berger SL. Histone acetylation in an Alzheimer's disease cell model promotes homeostatic amyloid-reducing pathways. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2024; 12:3. [PMID: 38167174 PMCID: PMC10759377 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-023-01696-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a disorder characterized by cognitive decline, neurodegeneration, and accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau neurofibrillary tangles in the brain. Dysregulation of epigenetic histone modifications may lead to expression of transcriptional programs that play a role either in protecting against disease genesis or in worsening of disease pathology. One such histone modification, acetylation of histone H3 lysine residue 27 (H3K27ac), is primarily localized to genomic enhancer regions and promotes active gene transcription. We previously discovered H3K27ac to be more abundant in AD patient brain tissue compared to the brains of age-matched non-demented controls. In this study, we use iPSC-neurons derived from familial AD patients with an amyloid precursor protein (APP) duplication (APPDup neurons) as a model to study the functional effect of lowering CBP/P300 enzymes that catalyze H3K27ac. We found that homeostatic amyloid-reducing genes were upregulated in the APPDup neurons compared to non-demented controls. We lowered CBP/P300 to reduce H3K27ac, which led to decreased expression of numerous of these homeostatic amyloid-reducing genes, along with increased extracellular secretion of a toxic amyloid-β species, Aβ(1-42). Our findings suggest that epigenomic histone acetylation, including H3K27ac, drives expression of compensatory genetic programs in response to AD-associated insults, specifically those resulting from APP duplication, and thus may play a role in mitigating AD pathology in neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C Xu
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine Philadelphia, Penn Institute of Epigenetics, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Hanna Sas-Nowosielska
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine Philadelphia, Penn Institute of Epigenetics, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Greg Donahue
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine Philadelphia, Penn Institute of Epigenetics, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Hua Huang
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine Philadelphia, Penn Institute of Epigenetics, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Naemeh Pourshafie
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine Philadelphia, Penn Institute of Epigenetics, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Charly R Good
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine Philadelphia, Penn Institute of Epigenetics, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Shelley L Berger
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine Philadelphia, Penn Institute of Epigenetics, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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Zheng X, Yang J, Hou Y, Fang Y, Wu K, Song Y, Liu K, Zhu J. Current non-invasive strategies for brain drug delivery: overcoming blood-brain barrier transport. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 51:25. [PMID: 38127178 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08968-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a complex and dynamic structure that serves as a gatekeeper, restricting the migrations of most compounds and molecules from blood into the central nervous system (CNS). The BBB plays a crucial role in maintaining CNS physiological function and brain homeostasis. It can protect the CNS from the entrance of toxic and infectious agents, however, it also restricts the drug permeation into brain to play a therapeutic role. The BBB has been the biggest limiting hurdle to medications entering the brain excluding from the brain about 100% of large-molecule and more than 98% of all small-molecule neurotherapeutics. As a result, it is of inability for drug molecule to reach requisite concentrations within the brain. OBJECTIVE With the aim of enhancing drug permeability and efficacy, a variety of strategies have been developed: invasive approaches, such as intraarterial delivery, intrathecal delivery, or administrating directly the drug intraventricularly and intracerebrally; non-invasive approaches that take advantage of innate BBB functions, using prodrugs, focused ultrasound, intranasal administration or nanotechnology. CONCLUSIONS Here we mainly review recent developments and challenges related to non-invasive BBB-crossing techniques, whose benefits include higher efficacy, easier application, less treatment burden, better patient acceptability, and adherence. Additionally, we also analyze the potential of non-invasive methods in the treatment of CNS disorders and render them as a most suitable platform for the management of neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Zheng
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Xinmin Street 1#, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Jingyao Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institute of Physiology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yiwei Hou
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Xinmin Street 1#, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Yong Fang
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Xinmin Street 1#, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Kaiyu Wu
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Xinmin Street 1#, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Yanna Song
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kangding Liu
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Xinmin Street 1#, Changchun, 130021, China.
| | - Jie Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Xinmin Street 1#, Changchun, 130021, China.
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Lee J, Lee H, Lee H, Shin M, Shin MG, Seo J, Lee EJ, Park SA, Park S. ANKS1A regulates LDL receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1)-mediated cerebrovascular clearance in brain endothelial cells. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8463. [PMID: 38123547 PMCID: PMC10733300 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44319-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain endothelial LDL receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) is involved in the clearance of Aβ peptides across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Here we show that endothelial deficiency of ankyrin repeat and SAM domain containing 1 A (ANKS1A) reduces both the cell surface levels of LRP1 and the Aβ clearance across the BBB. Association of ANKS1A with the NPXY motifs of LRP1 facilitates the transport of LRP1 from the endoplasmic reticulum toward the cell surface. ANKS1A deficiency in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model results in exacerbated Aβ pathology followed by cognitive impairments. These deficits are reversible by gene therapy with brain endothelial-specific ANKS1A. In addition, human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived BBBs (iBBBs) were generated from endothelial cells lacking ANKS1A or carrying the rs6930932 variant. Those iBBBs exhibit both reduced cell surface LRP1 and impaired Aβ clearance. Thus, our findings demonstrate that ANKS1A regulates LRP1-mediated Aβ clearance across the BBB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyeon Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul, 04310, Korea
| | - Haeryung Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul, 04310, Korea
| | - Hyein Lee
- Department of Brain Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science & Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Korea
| | - Miram Shin
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul, 04310, Korea
| | - Min-Gi Shin
- Department of Brain Science, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Korea
| | - Jinsoo Seo
- Department of Brain Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science & Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Korea
| | - Eun Jeong Lee
- Department of Brain Science, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Korea
| | - Sun Ah Park
- Lab for Neurodegenerative Dementia, Department of Anatomy, and Department of Neurology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16499, Korea
| | - Soochul Park
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul, 04310, Korea.
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Kang S, Lee J, Choi S, Nesbitt J, Min PH, Trushina E, Choi DS. Moderate ethanol exposure reduces astrocyte-induced neuroinflammatorysignaling and cognitive decline in presymptomatic APP/PS1 mice. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3627637. [PMID: 38077051 PMCID: PMC10705690 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3627637/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Background Alcohol use disorder (AUD) has been associated with the development of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, recent studies demonstrate that moderate alcohol consumption may be protective against dementia and cognitive decline. Methods We examined astrocyte function, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1), and the NF-κB p65 and IKK-α/β signaling pathways in modulating neuroinflammation and amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition. We assessed apolipoprotein E (ApoE) in the mouse brain using IHC and ELISA in response to moderate ethanol exposure (MEE). First, to confirm the intracerebral distribution of ApoE, we co-stained with GFAP, a marker for astrocytes that biosynthesize ApoE. We sought to investigate whether the ethanol-induced upregulation of LRP1 could potentially inhibit the activity of IL-1β and TNF-α induced IKK-α/β towards NF-κB p65, resulting in a reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines. To evaluate the actual Aβ load in the brains of APP/PS1 mice, we performed with a specific antibody Aβ (Thioflavin S) on both air- and ethanol-exposed groups, subsequently analyzing Aβ levels. We also measured glucose uptake activity using 18F-FDG in APP/PS1 mice. Finally, we investigated whether MEE induced cognitive and memory changes using the Y maze, noble objective recognition (NOR) test, and Morris water maze (MWM). Results Our findings demonstrate that MEE reduced astrocytic glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ApoE levels in the cortex and hippocampus in presymptomatic APP/PS1 mice. Interestingly, increased LRP1 protein expression is accompanied by dampening the IKK-α/β-NF-κB p65 pathway, resulting in decreased IL-1β and TNF-α levels in male mice. Notably, female mice show reduced anti-inflammatory cytokines, IL-4, and IL-10 levels without altering IL-1β and TNF-α concentrations. In both males and females, Aβ plaques, a hallmark of AD, were reduced in the cortex and hippocampus of ethanol-exposed presymptomatic APP/PS1 mice. Consistently, MEE increased fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-positron emission tomography (PET)-based brain activities and normalized cognitive and memory deficits in the APP/PS1 mice. Conclusions Our findings suggest that MEE may benefit AD pathology via modulating LRP1 expression, potentially reducing neuroinflammation and attenuating Aβ deposition. Our study implies that reduced astrocyte derived ApoE and LDL cholesterol levels are critical for attenuating AD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeyeon Lee
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, and Science
| | - Sun Choi
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, and Science
| | | | - Paul H Min
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, and Science
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Zhou R, Wang L, Chen L, Feng X, Zhou R, Xiang P, Wen J, Huang Y, Zhou H. Bone Marrow-Derived GCA + Immune Cells Drive Alzheimer's Disease Progression. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2303402. [PMID: 37949676 PMCID: PMC10754099 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-related degenerative disease of the central nervous system (CNS), whereas the role of bone marrow immune cells in the pathogenesis of AD remains unclear. Here, the study reveals that compared to matched healthy individuals, AD patients have higher circulating grancalcin (GCA) levels, which negatively correlate with cognitive function. Bone marrow-derived GCA+ immune cells, which secret abundant GCA and increase during aging, preferentially invaded the hippocampus and cortex of AD mouse model in a C-C Motif Chemokine Receptor 10 (CCR10)-dependent manner. Transplanting GCA+ immune cells or direct stereotaxic injection of recombinant GCA protein intensified amyloid plaque load and aggravated cognitive and memory impairments. In contrast, genetic ablation of GCA in the hematopoietic compartment improves cognitive and memory function. Mechanistically, GCA competitively binds to the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) in microglia, thus inhibiting phagocytosis and clearance of Aβ and potentiating neuropathological changes. Importantly, GCA-neutralizing antibody treatment rejuvenated cognitive and memory function and constrained AD progression. Together, the study demonstrates a pathological role of GCA+ immune cells instigating cognitive and memory decline, suggesting that GCA+ immune cells can be a potential target for innovative therapeutic strategies in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zhou
- Department of EndocrinologyEndocrinology Research CenterXiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunan410008China
| | - Liwen Wang
- Department of EndocrinologyEndocrinology Research CenterXiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunan410008China
| | - Linyun Chen
- Department of EndocrinologyEndocrinology Research CenterXiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunan410008China
| | - Xu Feng
- Department of EndocrinologyEndocrinology Research CenterXiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunan410008China
| | - Ruoyu Zhou
- Department of EndocrinologyEndocrinology Research CenterXiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunan410008China
| | - Peng Xiang
- Department of EndocrinologyEndocrinology Research CenterXiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunan410008China
| | - Jie Wen
- Department of EndocrinologyEndocrinology Research CenterXiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunan410008China
| | - Yan Huang
- Department of EndocrinologyEndocrinology Research CenterXiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunan410008China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric DisordersXiangya HospitalChangshaHunan410008China
| | - Haiyan Zhou
- Department of EndocrinologyEndocrinology Research CenterXiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunan410008China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric DisordersXiangya HospitalChangshaHunan410008China
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Aurelian S, Ciobanu A, Cărare R, Stoica SI, Anghelescu A, Ciobanu V, Onose G, Munteanu C, Popescu C, Andone I, Spînu A, Firan C, Cazacu IS, Trandafir AI, Băilă M, Postoiu RL, Zamfirescu A. Topical Cellular/Tissue and Molecular Aspects Regarding Nonpharmacological Interventions in Alzheimer's Disease-A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16533. [PMID: 38003723 PMCID: PMC10671501 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most complex and challenging developments at the beginning of the third millennium is the alarming increase in demographic aging, mainly-but not exclusively-affecting developed countries. This reality results in one of the harsh medical, social, and economic consequences: the continuously increasing number of people with dementia, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), which accounts for up to 80% of all such types of pathology. Its large and progressive disabling potential, which eventually leads to death, therefore represents an important public health matter, especially because there is no known cure for this disease. Consequently, periodic reappraisals of different therapeutic possibilities are necessary. For this purpose, we conducted this systematic literature review investigating nonpharmacological interventions for AD, including their currently known cellular and molecular action bases. This endeavor was based on the PRISMA method, by which we selected 116 eligible articles published during the last year. Because of the unfortunate lack of effective treatments for AD, it is necessary to enhance efforts toward identifying and improving various therapeutic and rehabilitative approaches, as well as related prophylactic measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sorina Aurelian
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020022 Bucharest, Romania; (S.A.); (A.C.); (C.P.); (I.A.); (A.S.); (A.-I.T.); (M.B.); (R.-L.P.); (A.Z.)
- Gerontology and Geriatrics Clinic Division, St. Luca Hospital for Chronic Illnesses, 041915 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adela Ciobanu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020022 Bucharest, Romania; (S.A.); (A.C.); (C.P.); (I.A.); (A.S.); (A.-I.T.); (M.B.); (R.-L.P.); (A.Z.)
- Department of Psychiatry, ‘Prof. Dr. Alexandru Obregia’ Clinical Hospital of Psychiatry, 041914 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Roxana Cărare
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 7NS, UK;
| | - Simona-Isabelle Stoica
- NeuroRehabilitation Clinic Division, Teaching Emergency Hospital “Bagdasar-Arseni”, 041915 Bucharest, Romania; (S.-I.S.); (A.A.); (I.S.C.)
- Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020022 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Aurelian Anghelescu
- NeuroRehabilitation Clinic Division, Teaching Emergency Hospital “Bagdasar-Arseni”, 041915 Bucharest, Romania; (S.-I.S.); (A.A.); (I.S.C.)
- Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020022 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Vlad Ciobanu
- Computer Science Department, Politehnica University of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Gelu Onose
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020022 Bucharest, Romania; (S.A.); (A.C.); (C.P.); (I.A.); (A.S.); (A.-I.T.); (M.B.); (R.-L.P.); (A.Z.)
- NeuroRehabilitation Clinic Division, Teaching Emergency Hospital “Bagdasar-Arseni”, 041915 Bucharest, Romania; (S.-I.S.); (A.A.); (I.S.C.)
| | - Constantin Munteanu
- NeuroRehabilitation Clinic Division, Teaching Emergency Hospital “Bagdasar-Arseni”, 041915 Bucharest, Romania; (S.-I.S.); (A.A.); (I.S.C.)
- Faculty of Medical Bioengineering, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 700115 Iași, Romania
| | - Cristina Popescu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020022 Bucharest, Romania; (S.A.); (A.C.); (C.P.); (I.A.); (A.S.); (A.-I.T.); (M.B.); (R.-L.P.); (A.Z.)
- NeuroRehabilitation Clinic Division, Teaching Emergency Hospital “Bagdasar-Arseni”, 041915 Bucharest, Romania; (S.-I.S.); (A.A.); (I.S.C.)
| | - Ioana Andone
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020022 Bucharest, Romania; (S.A.); (A.C.); (C.P.); (I.A.); (A.S.); (A.-I.T.); (M.B.); (R.-L.P.); (A.Z.)
- NeuroRehabilitation Clinic Division, Teaching Emergency Hospital “Bagdasar-Arseni”, 041915 Bucharest, Romania; (S.-I.S.); (A.A.); (I.S.C.)
| | - Aura Spînu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020022 Bucharest, Romania; (S.A.); (A.C.); (C.P.); (I.A.); (A.S.); (A.-I.T.); (M.B.); (R.-L.P.); (A.Z.)
- NeuroRehabilitation Clinic Division, Teaching Emergency Hospital “Bagdasar-Arseni”, 041915 Bucharest, Romania; (S.-I.S.); (A.A.); (I.S.C.)
| | - Carmen Firan
- NeuroRehabilitation Compartment, The Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine & Balneology Clinic Division, Teaching Emergency Hospital of the Ilfov County, 022104 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Ioana Simona Cazacu
- NeuroRehabilitation Clinic Division, Teaching Emergency Hospital “Bagdasar-Arseni”, 041915 Bucharest, Romania; (S.-I.S.); (A.A.); (I.S.C.)
| | - Andreea-Iulia Trandafir
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020022 Bucharest, Romania; (S.A.); (A.C.); (C.P.); (I.A.); (A.S.); (A.-I.T.); (M.B.); (R.-L.P.); (A.Z.)
- NeuroRehabilitation Clinic Division, Teaching Emergency Hospital “Bagdasar-Arseni”, 041915 Bucharest, Romania; (S.-I.S.); (A.A.); (I.S.C.)
| | - Mihai Băilă
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020022 Bucharest, Romania; (S.A.); (A.C.); (C.P.); (I.A.); (A.S.); (A.-I.T.); (M.B.); (R.-L.P.); (A.Z.)
- NeuroRehabilitation Clinic Division, Teaching Emergency Hospital “Bagdasar-Arseni”, 041915 Bucharest, Romania; (S.-I.S.); (A.A.); (I.S.C.)
| | - Ruxandra-Luciana Postoiu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020022 Bucharest, Romania; (S.A.); (A.C.); (C.P.); (I.A.); (A.S.); (A.-I.T.); (M.B.); (R.-L.P.); (A.Z.)
- NeuroRehabilitation Clinic Division, Teaching Emergency Hospital “Bagdasar-Arseni”, 041915 Bucharest, Romania; (S.-I.S.); (A.A.); (I.S.C.)
| | - Andreea Zamfirescu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 020022 Bucharest, Romania; (S.A.); (A.C.); (C.P.); (I.A.); (A.S.); (A.-I.T.); (M.B.); (R.-L.P.); (A.Z.)
- Gerontology and Geriatrics Clinic Division, St. Luca Hospital for Chronic Illnesses, 041915 Bucharest, Romania
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Akyol O, Akyol S, Chou MC, Chen S, Liu CK, Selek S, Soares JC, Chen CH. Lipids and lipoproteins may play a role in the neuropathology of Alzheimer's disease. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1275932. [PMID: 38033552 PMCID: PMC10687420 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1275932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other classes of dementia are important public health problems with overwhelming social, physical, and financial effects for patients, society, and their families and caregivers. The pathophysiology of AD is poorly understood despite the extensive number of clinical and experimental studies. The brain's lipid-rich composition is linked to disturbances in lipid homeostasis, often associated with glucose and lipid abnormalities in various neurodegenerative diseases, including AD. Moreover, elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels may be related to a higher probability of AD. Here, we hypothesize that lipids, and electronegative LDL (L5) in particular, may be involved in the pathophysiology of AD. Although changes in cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, and glucose levels are seen in AD, the cause remains unknown. We believe that L5-the most electronegative subfraction of LDL-may be a crucial factor in understanding the involvement of lipids in AD pathology. LDL and L5 are internalized by cells through different receptors and mechanisms that trigger separate intracellular pathways. One of the receptors involved in L5 internalization, LOX-1, triggers apoptotic pathways. Aging is associated with dysregulation of lipid homeostasis, and it is believed that alterations in lipid metabolism contribute to the pathogenesis of AD. Proposed mechanisms of lipid dysregulation in AD include mitochondrial dysfunction, blood-brain barrier disease, neuronal signaling, inflammation, and oxidative stress, all of which lead ultimately to memory loss through deficiency of synaptic integration. Several lipid species and their receptors have essential functions in AD pathogenesis and may be potential biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omer Akyol
- Molecular Cardiology, Vascular and Medicinal Research, The Texas Heart Institute, Houston, TX, United States
| | | | - Mei-Chuan Chou
- Department of Neurology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Shioulan Chen
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Kuan Liu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, College of Medicine, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Salih Selek
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, UTHealth Houston McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jair C. Soares
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, UTHealth Houston McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Chu-Huang Chen
- Molecular Cardiology, Vascular and Medicinal Research, The Texas Heart Institute, Houston, TX, United States
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Haferkamp U, Hartmann C, Abid CL, Brachner A, Höchner A, Gerhartl A, Harwardt B, Leckzik S, Leu J, Metzger M, Nastainczyk-Wulf M, Neuhaus W, Oerter S, Pless O, Rujescu D, Jung M, Appelt-Menzel A. Human isogenic cells of the neurovascular unit exert transcriptomic cell type-specific effects on a blood-brain barrier in vitro model of late-onset Alzheimer disease. Fluids Barriers CNS 2023; 20:78. [PMID: 37907966 PMCID: PMC10617216 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-023-00471-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The function of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is impaired in late-onset Alzheimer disease (LOAD), but the associated molecular mechanisms, particularly with respect to the high-risk APOE4/4 genotype, are not well understood. For this purpose, we developed a multicellular isogenic model of the neurovascular unit (NVU) based on human induced pluripotent stem cells. METHODS The human NVU was modeled in vitro using isogenic co-cultures of astrocytes, brain capillary endothelial-like cells (BCECs), microglia-like cells, neural stem cells (NSCs), and pericytes. Physiological and pathophysiological properties were investigated as well as the influence of each single cell type on the characteristics and function of BCECs. The barriers established by BCECs were analyzed for specific gene transcription using high-throughput quantitative PCR. RESULTS Co-cultures were found to tighten the barrier of BCECs and alter its transcriptomic profile under both healthy and disease conditions. In vitro differentiation of brain cell types that constitute the NVU was not affected by the LOAD background. The supportive effect of NSCs on the barrier established by BCECs was diminished under LOAD conditions. Transcriptomes of LOAD BCECs were modulated by different brain cell types. NSCs were found to have the strongest effect on BCEC gene regulation and maintenance of the BBB. Co-cultures showed cell type-specific functional contributions to BBB integrity under healthy and LOAD conditions. CONCLUSIONS Cell type-dependent transcriptional effects on LOAD BCECs were identified. Our study suggests that different brain cell types of the NVU have unique roles in maintaining barrier integrity that vary under healthy and LOAD conditions. .
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Affiliation(s)
- Undine Haferkamp
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Discovery Research ScreeningPort, 22525, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carla Hartmann
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Medical Faculty of the Martin, Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Hollystrasse 1, 06114, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Chaudhry Luqman Abid
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Medical Faculty of the Martin, Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Hollystrasse 1, 06114, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Andreas Brachner
- Center Health and Bioresources, Competence Unit Molecular Diagnostics, AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH, Vienna, 1210, Austria
| | - Alevtina Höchner
- Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC, Translational Center Regenerative Therapies (TLC-RT), 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Anna Gerhartl
- Center Health and Bioresources, Competence Unit Molecular Diagnostics, AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH, Vienna, 1210, Austria
| | - Bernadette Harwardt
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Medical Faculty of the Martin, Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Hollystrasse 1, 06114, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Selin Leckzik
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Medical Faculty of the Martin, Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Hollystrasse 1, 06114, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Jennifer Leu
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Discovery Research ScreeningPort, 22525, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marco Metzger
- Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC, Translational Center Regenerative Therapies (TLC-RT), 97070, Würzburg, Germany
- Chair Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (TERM), University Hospital Würzburg, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Winfried Neuhaus
- Center Health and Bioresources, Competence Unit Molecular Diagnostics, AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH, Vienna, 1210, Austria
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Danube Private University, Krems, 3500, Austria
| | - Sabrina Oerter
- Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC, Translational Center Regenerative Therapies (TLC-RT), 97070, Würzburg, Germany
- Chair Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (TERM), University Hospital Würzburg, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ole Pless
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Discovery Research ScreeningPort, 22525, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dan Rujescu
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Division of General Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Matthias Jung
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Medical Faculty of the Martin, Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Hollystrasse 1, 06114, Halle (Saale), Germany.
| | - Antje Appelt-Menzel
- Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC, Translational Center Regenerative Therapies (TLC-RT), 97070, Würzburg, Germany.
- Chair Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (TERM), University Hospital Würzburg, 97070, Würzburg, Germany.
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Uekawa K, Hattori Y, Ahn SJ, Seo J, Casey N, Anfray A, Zhou P, Luo W, Anrather J, Park L, Iadecola C. Border-associated macrophages promote cerebral amyloid angiopathy and cognitive impairment through vascular oxidative stress. Mol Neurodegener 2023; 18:73. [PMID: 37789345 PMCID: PMC10548599 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00660-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is a devastating condition common in patients with Alzheimer's disease but also observed in the general population. Vascular oxidative stress and neurovascular dysfunction have been implicated in CAA but the cellular source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and related signaling mechanisms remain unclear. We tested the hypothesis that brain border-associated macrophages (BAM), yolk sac-derived myeloid cells closely apposed to parenchymal and leptomeningeal blood vessels, are the source of radicals through the Aβ-binding innate immunity receptor CD36, leading to neurovascular dysfunction, CAA, and cognitive impairment. METHODS Tg2576 mice and WT littermates were transplanted with CD36-/- or CD36+/+ bone marrow at 12-month of age and tested at 15 months. This approach enables the repopulation of perivascular and leptomeningeal compartments with CD36-/- BAM. Neurovascular function was tested in anesthetized mice equipped with a cranial window in which cerebral blood flow was monitored by laser-Doppler flowmetry. Amyloid pathology and cognitive function were also examined. RESULTS The increase in blood flow evoked by whisker stimulation (functional hyperemia) or by endothelial and smooth muscle vasoactivity was markedly attenuated in WT → Tg2576 chimeras but was fully restored in CD36-/- → Tg2576 chimeras, in which BAM ROS production was suppressed. CAA-associated Aβ1-40, but not Aβ1-42, was reduced in CD36-/- → Tg2576 chimeras. Similarly, CAA, but not parenchymal plaques, was reduced in CD36-/- → Tg2576 chimeras. These beneficial vascular effects were associated with cognitive improvement. Finally, CD36-/- mice were able to more efficiently clear exogenous Aβ1-40 injected into the neocortex or the striatum. CONCLUSIONS CD36 deletion in BAM suppresses ROS production and rescues the neurovascular dysfunction and damage induced by Aβ. CD36 deletion in BAM also reduced brain Aβ1-40 and ameliorated CAA without affecting parenchyma plaques. Lack of CD36 enhanced the vascular clearance of exogenous Aβ. Restoration of neurovascular function and attenuation of CAA resulted in a near complete rescue of cognitive function. Collectively, these data implicate brain BAM in the pathogenesis of CAA and raise the possibility that targeting BAM CD36 is beneficial in CAA and other conditions associated with vascular Aβ deposition and damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Uekawa
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Yorito Hattori
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Sung Ji Ahn
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - James Seo
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Nicole Casey
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Antoine Anfray
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Ping Zhou
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Wenjie Luo
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Josef Anrather
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Laibaik Park
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
| | - Costantino Iadecola
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
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Vargas-Rodríguez P, Cuenca-Martagón A, Castillo-González J, Serrano-Martínez I, Luque RM, Delgado M, González-Rey E. Novel Therapeutic Opportunities for Neurodegenerative Diseases with Mesenchymal Stem Cells: The Focus on Modulating the Blood-Brain Barrier. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14117. [PMID: 37762420 PMCID: PMC10531435 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders encompass a broad spectrum of profoundly disabling situations that impact millions of individuals globally. While their underlying causes and pathophysiology display considerable diversity and remain incompletely understood, a mounting body of evidence indicates that the disruption of blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, resulting in brain damage and neuroinflammation, is a common feature among them. Consequently, targeting the BBB has emerged as an innovative therapeutic strategy for addressing neurological disorders. Within this review, we not only explore the neuroprotective, neurotrophic, and immunomodulatory benefits of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in combating neurodegeneration but also delve into their recent role in modulating the BBB. We will investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which MSC treatment impacts primary age-related neurological conditions like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and stroke, as well as immune-mediated diseases such as multiple sclerosis. Our focus will center on how MSCs participate in the modulation of cell transporters, matrix remodeling, stabilization of cell-junction components, and restoration of BBB network integrity in these pathological contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Vargas-Rodríguez
- Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine Lopez-Neyra (IPBLN), CSIC, PT Salud, 18016 Granada, Spain; (P.V.-R.); (J.C.-G.); (I.S.-M.); (M.D.)
| | - Alejandro Cuenca-Martagón
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (A.C.-M.); (R.M.L.)
| | - Julia Castillo-González
- Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine Lopez-Neyra (IPBLN), CSIC, PT Salud, 18016 Granada, Spain; (P.V.-R.); (J.C.-G.); (I.S.-M.); (M.D.)
| | - Ignacio Serrano-Martínez
- Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine Lopez-Neyra (IPBLN), CSIC, PT Salud, 18016 Granada, Spain; (P.V.-R.); (J.C.-G.); (I.S.-M.); (M.D.)
| | - Raúl M. Luque
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain; (A.C.-M.); (R.M.L.)
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Reina Sofia University Hospital (HURS), 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- CIBER Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Mario Delgado
- Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine Lopez-Neyra (IPBLN), CSIC, PT Salud, 18016 Granada, Spain; (P.V.-R.); (J.C.-G.); (I.S.-M.); (M.D.)
| | - Elena González-Rey
- Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine Lopez-Neyra (IPBLN), CSIC, PT Salud, 18016 Granada, Spain; (P.V.-R.); (J.C.-G.); (I.S.-M.); (M.D.)
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Chaparro CIP, Simões BT, Borges JP, Castanho MARB, Soares PIP, Neves V. A Promising Approach: Magnetic Nanosystems for Alzheimer's Disease Theranostics. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2316. [PMID: 37765284 PMCID: PMC10536416 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15092316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Among central nervous system (CNS) disorders, Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder and a major cause of dementia worldwide. The yet unclear etiology of AD and the high impenetrability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) limit most therapeutic compounds from reaching the brain. Although many efforts have been made to effectively deliver drugs to the CNS, both invasive and noninvasive strategies employed often come with associated side effects. Nanotechnology-based approaches such as nanoparticles (NPs), which can act as multifunctional platforms in a single system, emerged as a potential solution for current AD theranostics. Among these, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are an appealing strategy since they can act as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and as drug delivery systems. The nanocarrier functionalization with specific moieties, such as peptides, proteins, and antibodies, influences the particles' interaction with brain endothelial cell constituents, facilitating transport across the BBB and possibly increasing brain penetration. In this review, we introduce MNP-based systems, combining surface modifications with the particles' physical properties for molecular imaging, as a novel neuro-targeted strategy for AD theranostics. The main goal is to highlight the potential of multifunctional MNPs and their advances as a dual nanotechnological diagnosis and treatment platform for neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina I. P. Chaparro
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (C.I.P.C.); (B.T.S.); (M.A.R.B.C.)
- i3N/CENIMAT, Department of Materials Science, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal;
| | - Beatriz T. Simões
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (C.I.P.C.); (B.T.S.); (M.A.R.B.C.)
| | - João P. Borges
- i3N/CENIMAT, Department of Materials Science, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal;
| | - Miguel A. R. B. Castanho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (C.I.P.C.); (B.T.S.); (M.A.R.B.C.)
| | - Paula I. P. Soares
- i3N/CENIMAT, Department of Materials Science, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal;
| | - Vera Neves
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (C.I.P.C.); (B.T.S.); (M.A.R.B.C.)
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