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Wei J, Wang M, Li S, Han R, Xu W, Zhao A, Yu Q, Li H, Li M, Chi G. Reprogramming of astrocytes and glioma cells into neurons for central nervous system repair and glioblastoma therapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 176:116806. [PMID: 38796971 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116806] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) damage is usually irreversible owing to the limited regenerative capability of neurons. Following CNS injury, astrocytes are reactively activated and are the key cells involved in post-injury repair mechanisms. Consequently, research on the reprogramming of reactive astrocytes into neurons could provide new directions for the restoration of neural function after CNS injury and in the promotion of recovery in various neurodegenerative diseases. This review aims to provide an overview of the means through which reactive astrocytes around lesions can be reprogrammed into neurons, to elucidate the intrinsic connection between the two cell types from a neurogenesis perspective, and to summarize what is known about the neurotranscription factors, small-molecule compounds and MicroRNA that play major roles in astrocyte reprogramming. As the malignant proliferation of astrocytes promotes the development of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), this review also examines the research advances on and the theoretical basis for the reprogramming of GBM cells into neurons and discusses the advantages of such approaches over traditional treatment modalities. This comprehensive review provides new insights into the field of GBM therapy and theoretical insights into the mechanisms of neurological recovery following neurological injury and in GBM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyuan Wei
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Miaomiao Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Shilin Li
- School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Rui Han
- Department of Neurovascular Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, 1xinmin Avenue, Changchun, Jilin Province 130021, China.
| | - Wenhong Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Anqi Zhao
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Qi Yu
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Haokun Li
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Meiying Li
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Guangfan Chi
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
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Mahmoudi N, Wang Y, Moriarty N, Ahmed NY, Dehorter N, Lisowski L, Harvey AR, Parish CL, Williams RJ, Nisbet DR. Neuronal Replenishment via Hydrogel-Rationed Delivery of Reprogramming Factors. ACS NANO 2024; 18:3597-3613. [PMID: 38221746 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c11337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
The central nervous system's limited capacity for regeneration often leads to permanent neuronal loss following injury. Reprogramming resident reactive astrocytes into induced neurons at the site of injury is a promising strategy for neural repair, but challenges persist in stabilizing and accurately targeting viral vectors for transgene expression. In this study, we employed a bioinspired self-assembling peptide (SAP) hydrogel for the precise and controlled release of a hybrid adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector, AAVDJ, carrying the NeuroD1 neural reprogramming transgene. This method effectively mitigates the issues of high viral dosage at the target site, off-target delivery, and immunogenic reactions, enhancing the vector's targeting and reprogramming efficiency. In vitro, this vector successfully induced neuron formation, as confirmed by morphological, histochemical, and electrophysiological analyses. In vivo, SAP-mediated delivery of AAVDJ-NeuroD1 facilitated the trans-differentiation of reactive host astrocytes into induced neurons, concurrently reducing glial scarring. Our findings introduce a safe and effective method for treating central nervous system injuries, marking a significant advancement in regenerative neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negar Mahmoudi
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, the John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- ANU College of Engineering & Computer Science, Acton, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Yi Wang
- The Graeme Clark Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Niamh Moriarty
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Noorya Y Ahmed
- The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- The Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Nathalie Dehorter
- The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- The Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Leszek Lisowski
- Translational Vectorology Research Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Vector and Genome Engineering Facility, Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Australian Genome Therapeutics Centre, Children's Medical Research Institute and Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Innovative Therapies, Military Institute of Medicine, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Alan R Harvey
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, and Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Clare L Parish
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Richard J Williams
- The Graeme Clark Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- IMPACT, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3217, Australia
| | - David R Nisbet
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, the John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- The Graeme Clark Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Melbourne Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Science, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
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Hamdon S, Fernandez-Gonzalez P, Omar MY, González-Sepúlveda M, Ortiz J, Gil C. CHIR99021 causes inactivation of Tyrosine Hydroxylase and depletion of dopamine in rat brain striatum. Neuropharmacology 2024; 242:109759. [PMID: 37844866 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109759] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
CHIR99021, also known as laduviglusib or CT99021, is a Glycogen-synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) inhibitor, which has been reported as a promising drug for cardiomyocyte regeneration or treatment of sensorial hearing loss. Since the activation of dopamine (DA) receptors regulates dopamine synthesis and they can signal through the β-arrestin pathway and GSK3β, we decided to check the effect of GSK3β inhibitors (CHIR99021, SB216763 and lithium ion) on the control of DA synthesis. Using ex vivo experiments with minces from rat brain striatum, we observed that CHIR99021, but not SB216763 or lithium, causes complete abrogation of both DA synthesis and accumulation, pointing to off-target effects of CHIR99021. This decrease can be attributed to tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) inhibition since the accumulation of l-DOPA in the presence of a DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor was similarly decreased. On the other hand, CHIR99021 caused a dramatic increase in the DOPAC/DA ratio, an indicator of DA metabolization, and hindered DA incorporation into striatum tissue. Tetrabenazine, an inhibitor of DA vesicular transport, also caused DA depletion and DOPAC/DA ratio increase to the same extent as CHIR99021. In addition, both CHIR99021 or SB216763, but not lithium, decreased TH phosphorylation in Ser19, but not in Ser31 or Ser40. These results demonstrate that CHIR99021 can lead to TH inactivation and DA depletion in brain striatum, opening the possibility of its use in DA-related disorders, and shows effects to be considered in future clinical trials. More work is needed to find the mechanism exerted by CHIR99021 on DA accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Hamdon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Neurociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pol Fernandez-Gonzalez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Muhammad Yusof Omar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Neurociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta González-Sepúlveda
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR) - Center for Networked Biomedical Research on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 08035, Barcelona, Spain; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815, USA
| | - Jordi Ortiz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Neurociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain; Centro Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, CIBERSAM, and Translational Neuroscience Unit, Parc Taulí University Hospital and Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carles Gil
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Neurociències, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain.
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Marzoog BA. Transcription Factors in Brain Regeneration: A Potential Novel Therapeutic Target. Curr Drug Targets 2024; 25:46-61. [PMID: 38444255 DOI: 10.2174/0113894501279977231210170231] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Transcription factors play a crucial role in providing identity to each cell population. To maintain cell identity, it is essential to balance the expression of activator and inhibitor transcription factors. Cell plasticity and reprogramming offer great potential for future therapeutic applications, as they can regenerate damaged tissue. Specific niche factors can modify gene expression and differentiate or transdifferentiate the target cell to the required fate. Ongoing research is being carried out on the possibilities of transcription factors in regenerating neurons, with neural stem cells (NSCs) being considered the preferred cells for generating new neurons due to their epigenomic and transcriptome memory. NEUROD1/ASCL1, BRN2, MYTL1, and other transcription factors can induce direct reprogramming of somatic cells, such as fibroblasts, into neurons. However, the molecular biology of transcription factors in reprogramming and differentiation still needs to be fully understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basheer Abdullah Marzoog
- World-Class Research Center, Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare», I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
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5
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Guo X, Jiang P, Pan M, Ding Y, Lin Y, Jiang T, Li R, Wang W, Dai Y, Wang S, Cao Y, Lin H, Yang M, Liu W, Tao J. Overexpression of miR-124 in astrocyte improves neurological deficits in rat with ischemic stroke via DLL4 modulation. Exp Neurol 2023; 370:114571. [PMID: 37848121 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114571] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Astrocytes have been demonstrated to undergo conversion into functional neurons, presenting a promising approach for stroke treatment. However, the development of small molecules capable of effectively inducing this cellular reprogramming remains a critical challenge. METHODS Initially, we introduced a glial cell marker gene, GFaABC1D, as the promoter within an adeno-associated virus vector overexpressing miR-124 into the motor cortex of an ischemia-reperfusion model in rats. Additionally, we administered NeuroD1 as a positive control. Lentiviral vectors overexpressing miR-124 were constructed and transfected into primary rat astrocytes. We assessed the cellular distribution of GFAP, DCX, and NeuN on days 7, 14, and 28, respectively. RESULTS In rats with ischemic stroke, miR-124-transduced glial cells exhibited positive staining for the immature neuron marker doublecortin (DCX) and the mature neuron marker NeuN after 4 weeks. In contrast, NeuroD1-overexpressing model rats only expressed NeuN, and the positive percentage was higher in co-transfection with miR-124 and NeuroD1. Overexpression of miR-124 effectively ameliorated neurological deficits and motor functional impairment in the model rats. In primary rat astrocytes transduced with miR-124, DCX was not observed after 7 days of transfection, but it appeared at 14 days, with the percentage further increasing to 44.6% at 28 days. Simultaneously, 15.1% of miR-124-transduced cells exhibited NeuN positivity, which was not detected at 7 and 14 days. In vitro, double fluorescence assays revealed that miR-124 targeted Dll4, and in vivo experiments confirmed that miR-124 inhibited the expression of Notch1 and DLL4. CONCLUSIONS The overexpression of miR-124 in astrocytes demonstrates significant potential for improving neurological deficits following ischemic stroke by inhibiting DLL4 expression, and it may facilitate astrocyte-to-neuronal transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqin Guo
- Provincial and Ministerial Co-founded Collaborative Innovation Center of Rehabilitation Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Pingli Jiang
- Provincial and Ministerial Co-founded Collaborative Innovation Center of Rehabilitation Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Meihua Pan
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Yanyi Ding
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Yanting Lin
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Rehabilitation Medicine Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Cognitive Rehabilitation, Affiliated Rehabilitation Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China
| | - Rui Li
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Cognitive Rehabilitation, Affiliated Rehabilitation Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China
| | - Wenju Wang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Cognitive Rehabilitation, Affiliated Rehabilitation Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China
| | - Yaling Dai
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Cognitive Rehabilitation, Affiliated Rehabilitation Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, China
| | - Sinuo Wang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Rehabilitation Research Center of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Yajun Cao
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Rehabilitation Research Center of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Huawei Lin
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Rehabilitation Research Center of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Minguang Yang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Rehabilitation Research Center of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China
| | - Weilin Liu
- The Institute of Rehabilitation Industry, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
| | - Jing Tao
- The Institute of Rehabilitation Industry, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350122, China.
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6
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Padmakumar S, Amiji MM. Long-Acting Therapeutic Delivery Systems for the Treatment of Gliomas. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 197:114853. [PMID: 37149040 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114853] [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: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Despite the emergence of cutting-edge therapeutic strategies and tremendous progress in research, a complete cure of glioma remains elusive. The heterogenous nature of tumor, immunosuppressive state and presence of blood brain barrier are few of the major obstacles in this regard. Long-acting depot formulations such as injectables and implantables are gaining attention for drug delivery to brain owing to their ease in administration and ability to elute drug locally for extended durations in a controlled manner with minimal toxicity. Hybrid matrices fabricated by incorporating nanoparticulates within such systems help to enhance pharmaceutical advantages. Utilization of long-acting depots as monotherapy or in conjunction with existing strategies rendered significant survival benefits in many preclinical studies and some clinical trials. The discovery of novel targets, immunotherapeutic strategies and alternative drug administration routes are now coupled with several long-acting systems with an ultimate aim to enhance patient survival and prevent glioma recurrences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smrithi Padmakumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115
| | - Mansoor M Amiji
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115; Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115.
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Chen J, Huang L, Yang Y, Xu W, Qin Q, Qin R, Liang X, Lai X, Huang X, Xie M, Chen L. Somatic Cell Reprogramming for Nervous System Diseases: Techniques, Mechanisms, Potential Applications, and Challenges. Brain Sci 2023; 13:brainsci13030524. [PMID: 36979334 PMCID: PMC10046178 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13030524] [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: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Nervous system diseases present significant challenges to the neuroscience community due to ethical and practical constraints that limit access to appropriate research materials. Somatic cell reprogramming has been proposed as a novel way to obtain neurons. Various emerging techniques have been used to reprogram mature and differentiated cells into neurons. This review provides an overview of somatic cell reprogramming for neurological research and therapy, focusing on neural reprogramming and generating different neural cell types. We examine the mechanisms involved in reprogramming and the challenges that arise. We herein summarize cell reprogramming strategies to generate neurons, including transcription factors, small molecules, and microRNAs, with a focus on different types of cells.. While reprogramming somatic cells into neurons holds the potential for understanding neurological diseases and developing therapeutic applications, its limitations and risks must be carefully considered. Here, we highlight the potential benefits of somatic cell reprogramming for neurological disease research and therapy. This review contributes to the field by providing a comprehensive overview of the various techniques used to generate neurons by cellular reprogramming and discussing their potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiafeng Chen
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Lijuan Huang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Yue Yang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Qingchun Qin
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Rongxing Qin
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Xiaojun Liang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Xinyu Lai
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Aging-Related Diseases of Chinese Ministry of Education, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Xiaoying Huang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Minshan Xie
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Aging-Related Diseases of Chinese Ministry of Education, Nanning 530021, China
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8
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Regulation of Cell Plasticity by Bromodomain and Extraterminal Domain (BET) Proteins: A New Perspective in Glioblastoma Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065665. [PMID: 36982740 PMCID: PMC10055343 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BET proteins are a family of multifunctional epigenetic readers, mainly involved in transcriptional regulation through chromatin modelling. Transcriptome handling ability of BET proteins suggests a key role in the modulation of cell plasticity, both in fate decision and in lineage commitment during embryonic development and in pathogenic conditions, including cancerogenesis. Glioblastoma is the most aggressive form of glioma, characterized by a very poor prognosis despite the application of a multimodal therapy. Recently, new insights are emerging about the glioblastoma cellular origin, leading to the hypothesis that several putative mechanisms occur during gliomagenesis. Interestingly, epigenome dysregulation associated with loss of cellular identity and functions are emerging as crucial features of glioblastoma pathogenesis. Therefore, the emerging roles of BET protein in glioblastoma onco-biology and the compelling demand for more effective therapeutic strategies suggest that BET family members could be promising targets for translational breakthroughs in glioblastoma treatment. Primarily, “Reprogramming Therapy”, which is aimed at reverting the malignant phenotype, is now considered a promising strategy for GBM therapy.
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Trovato F, Stefani FR, Li J, Zetterdahl OG, Canals I, Ahlenius H, Bengzon J. Transcription Factor-Forced Astrocytic Differentiation Impairs Human Glioblastoma Growth In Vitro and In Vivo. Mol Cancer Ther 2023; 22:274-286. [PMID: 36508391 PMCID: PMC9890139 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-21-0903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Direct cellular reprogramming has recently gained attention of cancer researchers for the possibility to convert undifferentiated cancer cells into more differentiated, postmitotic cell types. While a few studies have attempted reprogramming of glioblastoma (GBM) cells toward a neuronal fate, this approach has not yet been used to induce differentiation into other lineages and in vivo data on reduction in tumorigenicity are limited. Here, we employ cellular reprogramming to induce astrocytic differentiation as a therapeutic approach in GBM. To this end, we overexpressed key transcriptional regulators of astroglial development in human GBM and GBM stem cell lines. Treated cells undergo a remarkable shift in structure, acquiring an astrocyte-like morphology with star-shaped bodies and radial branched processes. Differentiated cells express typical glial markers and show a marked decrease in their proliferative state. In addition, forced differentiation induces astrocytic functions such as induced calcium transients and ability to respond to inflammatory stimuli. Most importantly, forced differentiation substantially reduces tumorigenicity of GBM cells in an in vivo xenotransplantation model. The current study capitalizes on cellular plasticity with a novel application in cancer. We take advantage of the similarity between neural developmental processes and cancer hierarchy to mitigate, if not completely abolish, the malignant nature of tumor cells and pave the way for new intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Trovato
- Stem Cell Center, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurology, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
- Corresponding Author: Francesco Trovato, Stem Cell Center/Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Klinikgatan 26, Lund, Scania 221 84, Sweden. Phone: 46-222-3159; E-mail:
| | - Francesca Romana Stefani
- Stem Cell Center, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
| | - Jiaxin Li
- Stem Cell Center, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
| | - Oskar G. Zetterdahl
- Stem Cell Center, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurology, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
| | - Isaac Canals
- Stem Cell Center, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurology, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
| | - Henrik Ahlenius
- Stem Cell Center, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurology, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
| | - Johan Bengzon
- Stem Cell Center, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Lund University, Lund, Scania, Sweden
- Department of Neurosurgery, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Scania, Sweden
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10
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Shen Y, Ye YR, Tang ZQ. Expression, Significance, and Correlation of Histone Deacetylase 1/RE-1 Silencing Transcription Factor and Neuronal Markers in Glioma. World Neurosurg 2023; 172:e267-e277. [PMID: 36623722 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.01.007] [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: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inducing the differentiation of glioma cells into neuron-like cells may be an effective strategy to combat glioma. The histone deacetylase 1/RE-1 silencing transcription factor (HDAC1/REST) complex regulates the expression of multiple neuronal genes. In this study, we analyzed the presence and significance of this regulatory effect in glioma based on bioinformatics methods. METHODS The Human Protein Atlas database was used to obtain immunohistochemical staining images. The Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis and Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas databases were used to analyze the expression of HDAC1/REST and neuronal markers in glioma, their effects on survival, and the association between HDAC1/REST and the expression of neuronal markers and stem cell markers. The differentially expressed genes between the high and low HDAC1/REST groups were explored. The Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery database was used for gene ontology and kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway enrichment analysis. RESULTS The results showed that the expression of HDAC1 and REST increased with the grade of glioma, while the expression of neuronal markers decreased with the grade of glioma. High expression of HDAC1/REST and low expression of neuronal markers were associated with poor prognosis. HDAC1/REST expression was negatively correlated with the expression of neuronal markers, and positively correlated with the expression of neural stem cell markers. The genes up-regulated in the high HDAC1/REST group were mainly related to extracellular matrix and inflammation, and the down-regulated genes were mainly related to synapsis. CONCLUSIONS This study suggested that HDAC1/REST may be involved in maintaining the malignant phenotype of glioma cells and the stem cell status of glioma stem cells by inhibiting the expression of neuronal markers, which promote the progression of glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Shen
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen), Fudan University, Xiamen, China; Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan-Rong Ye
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen), Fudan University, Xiamen, China; Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhao-Qi Tang
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen), Fudan University, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Clinical Research Center for Cancer Therapy, Xiamen, China.
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11
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Khan S, Martinez-Ledesma E, Dong J, Mahalingam R, Park SY, Piao Y, Koul D, Balasubramaniyan V, de Groot JF, Yung WKA. Neuronal differentiation drives the antitumor activity of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibition in glioblastoma. Neurooncol Adv 2023; 5:vdad132. [PMID: 38130900 PMCID: PMC10734674 DOI: 10.1093/noajnl/vdad132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) amplification is found in nearly 40%-50% of glioblastoma cases. Several EGFR inhibitors have been tested in glioblastoma but have failed to demonstrate long-term therapeutic benefit, presumably because of acquired resistance. Targeting EGFR downstream signaling with mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1 and 2 (MEK1/2) inhibitors would be a more effective approach to glioblastoma treatment. We tested the therapeutic potential of MEK1/2 inhibitors in glioblastoma using 3D cultures of glioma stem-like cells (GSCs) and mouse models of glioblastoma. Methods Several MEK inhibitors were screened in an unbiased high-throughput platform using GSCs. Cell death was evaluated using flow cytometry and Western blotting (WB) analysis. RNA-seq, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescence, and WB analysis were used to identify and validate neuronal differentiation. Results Unbiased screening of multiple MEK inhibitors in GSCs showed antiproliferative and apoptotic cell death in sensitive cell lines. An RNA-seq analysis of cells treated with trametinib, a potent MEK inhibitor, revealed upregulation of neurogenesis and neuronal differentiation genes, such as achaete-scute homolog 1 (ASCL1), delta-like 3 (DLL3), and neurogenic differentiation 4 (NeuroD4). We validated the neuronal differentiation phenotypes in vitro and in vivo using selected differentiation markers (β-III-tubulin, ASCL1, DLL3, and NeuroD4). Oral treatment with trametinib in an orthotopic GSC xenograft model significantly improved animal survival, with 25%-30% of mice being long-term survivors. Conclusions Our findings demonstrated that MEK1/2 inhibition promotes neuronal differentiation in glioblastoma, a potential additional mechanism of action of MEK1/2 inhibitors. Thus, MEK inhibitors could be efficacious in glioblastoma patients with activated EGFR/MAPK signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabbir Khan
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Emmanuel Martinez-Ledesma
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Institute for Obesity Research, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Jianwen Dong
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Rajasekaran Mahalingam
- Department of Symptom Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Soon Young Park
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yuji Piao
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Dimpy Koul
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - John F de Groot
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - W K Alfred Yung
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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12
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Uthamacumaran A. Dissecting cell fate dynamics in pediatric glioblastoma through the lens of complex systems and cellular cybernetics. BIOLOGICAL CYBERNETICS 2022; 116:407-445. [PMID: 35678918 DOI: 10.1007/s00422-022-00935-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Cancers are complex dynamic ecosystems. Reductionist approaches to science are inadequate in characterizing their self-organized patterns and collective emergent behaviors. Since current approaches to single-cell analysis in cancer systems rely primarily on single time-point multiomics, many of the temporal features and causal adaptive behaviors in cancer dynamics are vastly ignored. As such, tools and concepts from the interdisciplinary paradigm of complex systems theory are introduced herein to decode the cellular cybernetics of cancer differentiation dynamics and behavioral patterns. An intuition for the attractors and complex networks underlying cancer processes such as cell fate decision-making, multiscale pattern formation systems, and epigenetic state-transitions is developed. The applications of complex systems physics in paving targeted therapies and causal pattern discovery in precision oncology are discussed. Pediatric high-grade gliomas are discussed as a model-system to demonstrate that cancers are complex adaptive systems, in which the emergence and selection of heterogeneous cellular states and phenotypic plasticity are driven by complex multiscale network dynamics. In specific, pediatric glioblastoma (GBM) is used as a proof-of-concept model to illustrate the applications of the complex systems framework in understanding GBM cell fate decisions and decoding their adaptive cellular dynamics. The scope of these tools in forecasting cancer cell fate dynamics in the emerging field of computational oncology and patient-centered systems medicine is highlighted.
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13
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Uthamacumaran A, Zenil H. A Review of Mathematical and Computational Methods in Cancer Dynamics. Front Oncol 2022; 12:850731. [PMID: 35957879 PMCID: PMC9359441 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.850731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancers are complex adaptive diseases regulated by the nonlinear feedback systems between genetic instabilities, environmental signals, cellular protein flows, and gene regulatory networks. Understanding the cybernetics of cancer requires the integration of information dynamics across multidimensional spatiotemporal scales, including genetic, transcriptional, metabolic, proteomic, epigenetic, and multi-cellular networks. However, the time-series analysis of these complex networks remains vastly absent in cancer research. With longitudinal screening and time-series analysis of cellular dynamics, universally observed causal patterns pertaining to dynamical systems, may self-organize in the signaling or gene expression state-space of cancer triggering processes. A class of these patterns, strange attractors, may be mathematical biomarkers of cancer progression. The emergence of intracellular chaos and chaotic cell population dynamics remains a new paradigm in systems medicine. As such, chaotic and complex dynamics are discussed as mathematical hallmarks of cancer cell fate dynamics herein. Given the assumption that time-resolved single-cell datasets are made available, a survey of interdisciplinary tools and algorithms from complexity theory, are hereby reviewed to investigate critical phenomena and chaotic dynamics in cancer ecosystems. To conclude, the perspective cultivates an intuition for computational systems oncology in terms of nonlinear dynamics, information theory, inverse problems, and complexity. We highlight the limitations we see in the area of statistical machine learning but the opportunity at combining it with the symbolic computational power offered by the mathematical tools explored.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hector Zenil
- Machine Learning Group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, The University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- The Alan Turing Institute, British Library, London, United Kingdom
- Oxford Immune Algorithmics, Reading, United Kingdom
- Algorithmic Dynamics Lab, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Algorithmic Nature Group, LABORES, Paris, France
- *Correspondence: Hector Zenil,
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14
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Ribosomes and Ribosomal Proteins Promote Plasticity and Stemness Induction in Glioma Cells via Reprogramming. Cells 2022; 11:cells11142142. [PMID: 35883585 PMCID: PMC9323835 DOI: 10.3390/cells11142142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a lethal tumor that develops in the adult brain. Despite advances in therapeutic strategies related to surgical resection and chemo-radiotherapy, the overall survival of patients with GBM remains unsatisfactory. Genetic research on mutation, amplification, and deletion in GBM cells is important for understanding the biological aggressiveness, diagnosis, and prognosis of GBM. However, the efficacy of drugs targeting the genetic abnormalities in GBM cells is limited. Investigating special microenvironments that induce chemo-radioresistance in GBM cells is critical to improving the survival and quality of life of patients with GBM. GBM cells acquire and maintain stem-cell-like characteristics via their intrinsic potential and extrinsic factors from their special microenvironments. The acquisition of stem-cell-like phenotypes and aggressiveness may be referred to as a reprogramming of GBM cells. In addition to protein synthesis, deregulation of ribosome biogenesis is linked to several diseases including cancer. Ribosomal proteins possess both tumor-promotive and -suppressive functions as extra-ribosomal functions. Incorporation of ribosomes and overexpression of ribosomal protein S6 reprogram and induce stem-cell-like phenotypes in GBM cells. Herein, we review recent literature and our published data on the acquisition of aggressiveness by GBM and discuss therapeutic options through reprogramming.
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15
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Wang J, Chen S, Pan C, Li G, Tang Z. Application of Small Molecules in the Central Nervous System Direct Neuronal Reprogramming. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:799152. [PMID: 35875485 PMCID: PMC9301571 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.799152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The lack of regenerative capacity of neurons leads to poor prognoses for some neurological disorders. The use of small molecules to directly reprogram somatic cells into neurons provides a new therapeutic strategy for neurological diseases. In this review, the mechanisms of action of different small molecules, the approaches to screening small molecule cocktails, and the methods employed to detect their reprogramming efficiency are discussed, and the studies, focusing on neuronal reprogramming using small molecules in neurological disease models, are collected. Future research efforts are needed to investigate the in vivo mechanisms of small molecule-mediated neuronal reprogramming under pathophysiological states, optimize screening cocktails and dosing regimens, and identify safe and effective delivery routes to promote neural regeneration in different neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Gaigai Li
- *Correspondence: Gaigai Li, ; Zhouping Tang,
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16
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Thakur A, Faujdar C, Sharma R, Sharma S, Malik B, Nepali K, Liou JP. Glioblastoma: Current Status, Emerging Targets, and Recent Advances. J Med Chem 2022; 65:8596-8685. [PMID: 35786935 PMCID: PMC9297300 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly malignant
brain tumor characterized
by a heterogeneous population of genetically unstable and highly infiltrative
cells that are resistant to chemotherapy. Although substantial efforts
have been invested in the field of anti-GBM drug discovery in the
past decade, success has primarily been confined to the preclinical
level, and clinical studies have often been hampered due to efficacy-,
selectivity-, or physicochemical property-related issues. Thus, expansion
of the list of molecular targets coupled with a pragmatic design of
new small-molecule inhibitors with central nervous system (CNS)-penetrating
ability is required to steer the wheels of anti-GBM drug discovery
endeavors. This Perspective presents various aspects of drug discovery
(challenges in GBM drug discovery and delivery, therapeutic targets,
and agents under clinical investigation). The comprehensively covered
sections include the recent medicinal chemistry campaigns embarked
upon to validate the potential of numerous enzymes/proteins/receptors
as therapeutic targets in GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandeep Thakur
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chetna Faujdar
- Department of Biotechnology, Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida 201307, India
| | - Ram Sharma
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Sachin Sharma
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Basant Malik
- Department of Sterile Product Development, Research and Development-Unit 2, Jubiliant Generics Ltd., Noida 201301, India
| | - Kunal Nepali
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Jing Ping Liou
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
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17
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Wang X, Wu J, Wang W, Zhang Y, He D, Xiao B, Zhang H, Song A, Xing Y, Li B. Reprogramming of Rat Fibroblasts into Induced Neurons by Small-Molecule Compounds In Vitro and In Vivo. ACS Chem Neurosci 2022; 13:2099-2109. [PMID: 35723446 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell replacement is a promising approach for neurodegenerative disease treatment. Somatic cells such as fibroblasts can be induced to differentiate into neurons by specific transcription factors; however, the potential of viral vectors used for reprogramming to integrate into the genome raises concerns about the potential clinical applications of this approach. Here, we directly reprogrammed rat embryonic skin fibroblasts into induced neurons (iNs) via six small-molecule compounds (SMs) (VPA, CHIR99021, forskolin, Y-27632, Repsox, and P7C3-A20). iNs exhibit typical neuronal morphology, and immunofluorescence showed that more than 96% of the iNs expressed the early neuronal marker class III beta-tubulin (TUJ1) and that more than 91% of iNs expressed the mature neuronal marker neuron-specific enolase (NSE) after 10 days of reprogramming. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction also showed that most iNs expressed the dopaminergic neuron marker tyrosine hydroxylase, the neural marker Nur correlation factor 1, the (γ-aminobutyric acid, GABA) GABAergic neuronal marker GABA, and the cholinergic neuron marker choline acetyltransferase. In addition, we found that cell proliferation decreased during reprogramming and that protein synthesis increased initially and then decreased. SMs were mixed with hydrogels, and the hydrogels were implanted subcutaneously into the backs of rats. After 7 days, the TUJ1 and NSE proteins were expressed in surrounding tissues, indicating that SMs caused reprogramming in vivo. In summary, rat skin fibroblasts can be efficiently reprogrammed into iNs by SMs in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyun Wang
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000 Henan, P.R. China
| | - Jing Wu
- Department of Paediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001 Henan, P.R. China
| | - Wang Wang
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000 Henan, P.R. China
| | - Yuanwang Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000 Henan, P.R. China
| | - Dixin He
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000 Henan, P.R. China
| | - Boying Xiao
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000 Henan, P.R. China
| | - Haohao Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000 Henan, P.R. China
| | - Anqi Song
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000 Henan, P.R. China
| | - Ying Xing
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000 Henan, P.R. China
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000 Henan, P.R. China
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18
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PT109, a novel multi-kinase inhibitor suppresses glioblastoma multiforme through cell reprogramming: Involvement of PTBP1/PKM1/2 pathway. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 920:174837. [PMID: 35218719 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.174837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most prevalent type and lethal form of primary malignant brain tumor, accounting for about 40-50% of intracranial tumors and without effective treatments now. Cell reprogramming is one of the emerging treatment approaches for GBM, which can reprogram glioblastomas into non-tumor cells to achieve therapeutic effects. However, anti-GBM drugs through reprogramming can only provide limited symptom relief, and cannot completely cure GBM. Here we showed that PT109, a novel multi-kinase inhibitor, suppressed GBM's proliferation, colony formation, migration and reprogramed GBM into oligodendrocytes. Analysis of quantitative proteomics data after PT109 administration of human GBM cells showed significant influence of energy metabolism, cell cycle, and immune system processes of GBM-associated protein. Metabolomics analysis showed that PT109 improved the aerobic respiration process in glioma cells. Meanwhile, we found that PT109 could significantly increase the ratio of Pyruvate kinase M1/2 (PKM1/2) by reducing the level of polypyrimidine tract-binding protein 1 (PTBP1). Altogether, this work developed a novel anti-GBM small molecule PT109, which reprogramed GBM into oligodendrocytes and changed the metabolic pattern of GBM through the PTBP1/PKM1/2 pathway, providing a new strategy for the development of anti-glioma drugs.
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19
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Liu Q, Tian R, Yu P, Shu M. miR-221/222 suppression induced by activation of the cAMP/PKA/CREB1 pathway is required for cAMP-induced bidirectional differentiation of glioma cells. FEBS Lett 2021; 595:2829-2843. [PMID: 34687039 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Factors that increase cAMP levels can induce lineage-specific differentiation of glioma cells into astrocyte-like cells. However, the differentiation pattern and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we find that cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA)/cAMP responsive element binding protein 1 (CREB1)-induced miR-221/222 suppression contributes to the neuron-like differentiation of gliomas. cAMP agonists selectively induced neuron- and astrocyte-like but not oligodendrocyte-like differentiation of C6 glioma cells. PKA inhibitors and CREB1 knockout blocked neuron-like differentiation of glioma cells. cAMP inhibited miR-221/222 in a PKA/CREB1-dependent manner. Importantly, both in vitro and in vivo assays demonstrated that transcriptional suppression of miR-221/222 is required for neuronal differentiation of glioma cells. Our findings suggest that increasing cAMP levels can induce bidirectional differentiation of glioma cells. Furthermore, the miR-221/222 cluster acts as an epigenetic brake during glioma differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruotong Tian
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Panpan Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Minfeng Shu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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20
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Lai J, Liu Z, Zhao Y, Ma C, Huang H. Anticancer Effects of I-BET151, an Inhibitor of Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal Domain Proteins. Front Oncol 2021; 11:716830. [PMID: 34540687 PMCID: PMC8443787 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.716830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
I-BET151 is an inhibitor of bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) proteins that selectively inhibits BET family members (BRD2, BRD3, BRD4, and BRDT). Over the past ten years, many studies have demonstrated the potential of I-BET151 in cancer treatment. Specifically, I-BET151 causes cell cycle arrest and inhibits tumor cell proliferation in some hematological malignancies and solid tumors, such as breast cancer, glioma, melanoma, neuroblastoma, and ovarian cancer. The anticancer activity of I-BET151 is related to its effects on NF-κB, Notch, and Hedgehog signal transduction pathway, tumor microenvironment (TME) and telomere elongation. Remarkably, the combination of I-BET151 with select anticancer drugs can partially alleviate the occurrence of drug resistance in chemotherapy. Especially, the combination of forskolin, ISX9, CHIR99021, I-BET151 and DAPT allows GBM cells to be reprogrammed into neurons, and this process does not experience an intermediate pluripotent state. The research on the anticancer mechanism of I-BET151 will lead to new treatment strategies for clinical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiacheng Lai
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ziqiang Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yulei Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chengyuan Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Haiyan Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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21
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Chen G, Guo Y, Li C, Li S, Wan X. Small Molecules that Promote Self-Renewal of Stem Cells and Somatic Cell Reprogramming. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 16:511-523. [PMID: 32185667 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-020-09965-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The ground state of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) is closely related to the development of regenerative medicine. Particularly, long-term culture of ESCs in vitro, maintenance of their undifferentiated state, self-renewal and multi-directional differentiation ability is the premise of ESCs mechanism and application research. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) reprogrammed from mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEF) cells into cells with most of the ESC characteristics show promise towards solving ethical problems currently facing stem cell research. However, integration into chromosomal DNA through viral-mediated genes may activate proto oncogenes and lead to risk of cancer of iPSC. At the same time, iPS induction efficiency needs to be further improved to reduce the use of transcription factors. In this review, we discuss small molecules that promote self-renewal and reprogramming, including growth factor receptor inhibitors, GSK-3β and histone deacetylase inhibitors, metabolic regulators, pathway modulators as well as EMT/MET regulation inhibitors to enhance maintenance of ESCs and enable reprogramming. Additionally, we summarize the mechanism of action of small molecules on ESC self-renewal and iPSC reprogramming. Finally, we will report on the progress in identification of novel and potentially effective agents as well as selected strategies that show promise in regenerative medicine. On this basis, development of more small molecule combinations and efficient induction of chemically induced pluripotent stem cell (CiPSC) is vital for stem cell therapy. This will significantly improve research in pathogenesis, individualized drug screening, stem cell transplantation, tissue engineering and many other aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guofang Chen
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yu'e Guo
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Li
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuangdi Li
- Departments of Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoping Wan
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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22
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Zheng Y, Huang Z, Xu J, Hou K, Yu Y, Lv S, Chen L, Li Y, Quan C, Chi G. MiR-124 and Small Molecules Synergistically Regulate the Generation of Neuronal Cells from Rat Cortical Reactive Astrocytes. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:2447-2464. [PMID: 33725319 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-021-02345-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Irreversible neuron loss caused by central nervous system injuries usually leads to persistent neurological dysfunction. Reactive astrocytes, because of their high proliferative capacity, proximity to neuronal lineage, and significant involvement in glial scarring, are ideal starting cells for neuronal regeneration. Having previously identified several small molecules as important regulators of astrocyte-to-neuron reprogramming, we established herein that miR-124, ruxolitinib, SB203580, and forskolin could co-regulate rat cortical reactive astrocyte-to-neuron conversion. The induced cells had reduced astroglial properties, displayed typical neuronal morphologies, and expressed neuronal markers, reflecting 25.9% of cholinergic neurons and 22.3% of glutamatergic neurons. Gene analysis revealed that induced neuron gene expression patterns were more similar to that of primary neurons than of initial reactive astrocytes. On the molecular level, miR-124-driven neuronal differentiation of reactive astrocytes was via targeting of the SOX9-NFIA-HES1 axis to inhibit HES1 expression. In conclusion, we present a novel approach to inducing endogenous rat cortical reactive astrocytes into neurons through co-regulation involving miR-124 and three small molecules. Thus, our research has potential implications for inhibiting glial scar formation and promoting neuronal regeneration after central nervous system injury or disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Zheng
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China
| | - Zhehao Huang
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 126 Xiantai Street, Changchun, 130031, Jilin, China
| | - Jinying Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China
| | - Kun Hou
- The First Hospital of Jilin University, No. 1 Xinmin Avenue, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China
| | - Yifei Yu
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China
| | - Shuang Lv
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China
| | - Lin Chen
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 126 Xiantai Street, Changchun, 130031, Jilin, China
| | - Yulin Li
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China.
| | - Chengshi Quan
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China.
| | - Guangfan Chi
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, Jilin, China.
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23
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Mollinari C, Merlo D. Direct Reprogramming of Somatic Cells to Neurons: Pros and Cons of Chemical Approach. Neurochem Res 2021; 46:1330-1336. [PMID: 33666839 PMCID: PMC8084785 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03282-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Translating successful preclinical research in neurodegenerative diseases into clinical practice has been difficult. The preclinical disease models used for testing new drugs not always appear predictive of the effects of the agents in the human disease state. Human induced pluripotent stem cells, obtained by reprogramming of adult somatic cells, represent a powerful system to study the molecular mechanisms of the disease onset and pathogenesis. However, these cells require a long time to differentiate into functional neural cells and the resetting of epigenetic information during reprogramming, might miss the information imparted by age. On the contrary, the direct conversion of somatic cells to neuronal cells is much faster and more efficient, it is safer for cell therapy and allows to preserve the signatures of donors’ age. Direct reprogramming can be induced by lineage-specific transcription factors or chemical cocktails and represents a powerful tool for modeling neurological diseases and for regenerative medicine. In this Commentary we present and discuss strength and weakness of several strategies for the direct cellular reprogramming from somatic cells to generate human brain cells which maintain age‐related features. In particular, we describe and discuss chemical strategy for cellular reprogramming as it represents a valuable tool for many applications such as aged brain modeling, drug screening and personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiana Mollinari
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133, Rome, Italy. .,Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanita', Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Daniela Merlo
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanita', Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
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Dotson GA, Ryan CW, Chen C, Muir L, Rajapakse I. Cellular reprogramming: Mathematics meets medicine. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. SYSTEMS BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2020; 13:e1515. [PMID: 33289324 PMCID: PMC8867497 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Generating needed cell types using cellular reprogramming is a promising strategy for restoring tissue function in injury or disease. A common method for reprogramming is addition of one or more transcription factors that confer a new function or identity. Advancements in transcription factor selection and delivery have culminated in successful grafting of autologous reprogrammed cells, an early demonstration of their clinical utility. Though cellular reprogramming has been successful in a number of settings, identification of appropriate transcription factors for a particular transformation has been challenging. Computational methods enable more sophisticated prediction of relevant transcription factors for reprogramming by leveraging gene expression data of initial and target cell types, and are built on mathematical frameworks ranging from information theory to control theory. This review highlights the utility and impact of these mathematical frameworks in the field of cellular reprogramming. This article is categorized under: Reproductive System Diseases > Reproductive System Diseases>Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Reproductive System Diseases > Reproductive System Diseases>Stem Cells and Development Reproductive System Diseases > Reproductive System Diseases>Computational Models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle A. Dotson
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, USA
| | - Charles W. Ryan
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, USA
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, USA
| | - Can Chen
- Department of Mathematics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, USA
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, USA
| | - Lindsey Muir
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, USA
| | - Indika Rajapakse
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, USA
- Department of Mathematics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, USA
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Farzaneh M, Anbiyaiee A, Khoshnam SE. Human Pluripotent Stem Cells for Spinal Cord Injury. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 15:135-143. [PMID: 31656156 DOI: 10.2174/1574362414666191018121658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) as a serious public health issue and neurological insult is one of the most severe cause of long-term disability. To date, a variety of techniques have been widely developed to treat central nervous system injury. Currently, clinical treatments are limited to surgical decompression and pharmacotherapy. Because of their negative effects and inefficiency, novel therapeutic approaches are required in the management of SCI. Improvement and innovation of stem cell-based therapies have a huge potential for biological and future clinical applications. Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) including embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are defined by their abilities to divide asymmetrically, self-renew and ultimately differentiate into various cell lineages. There are considerable research efforts to use various types of stem cells, such as ESCs, neural stem cells (NSCs), and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the treatment of patients with SCI. Moreover, the use of patient-specific iPSCs holds great potential as an unlimited cell source for generating in vivo models of SCI. In this review, we focused on the potential of hPSCs in treating SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Farzaneh
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Anbiyaiee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz 61357-15794, Iran
| | - Seyed Esmaeil Khoshnam
- Physiology Research Center, Department of Physiology, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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Parra-Cantu C, Li W, Quiñones-Hinojosa A, Zhang YS. 3D bioprinting of glioblastoma models. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 4:113-125. [PMID: 33200034 DOI: 10.2217/3dp-2019-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The most common and malignant primary brain tumor in adults is glioblastoma (GBM). In vitro 3D brain models are needed to better understand the pathological processes underlying GBM and ultimately develop more efficient antineoplastic agents. Here, we describe the bioprinting methods that have been used to fabricate volumetric GBM models. We explain several factors that should be considered for 3D bioprinting, including bioinks, cells and construct designs, in relation to GBM modeling. Although 3D-bioprinted brain models are still to be improved, they have the potential to become a powerful tool for drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Parra-Cantu
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Wanlu Li
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | - Yu Shrike Zhang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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Caprifico AE, Foot PJS, Polycarpou E, Calabrese G. Overcoming the Blood-Brain Barrier: Functionalised Chitosan Nanocarriers. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12111013. [PMID: 33114020 PMCID: PMC7690755 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12111013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The major impediment to the delivery of therapeutics to the brain is the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The BBB allows for the entrance of essential nutrients while excluding harmful substances, including most therapeutic agents; hence, brain disorders, especially tumours, are very difficult to treat. Chitosan is a well-researched polymer that offers advantageous biological and chemical properties, such as mucoadhesion and the ease of functionalisation. Chitosan-based nanocarriers (CsNCs) establish ionic interactions with the endothelial cells, facilitating the crossing of drugs through the BBB by adsorptive mediated transcytosis. This process is further enhanced by modifications of the structure of chitosan, owing to the presence of reactive amino and hydroxyl groups. Finally, by permanently binding ligands or molecules, such as antibodies or lipids, CsNCs have showed a boosted passage through the BBB, in both in vivo and in vitro studies which will be discussed in this review.
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Lee C, Willerth SM, Nygaard HB. The Use of Patient-Derived Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells for Alzheimer’s Disease Modeling. Prog Neurobiol 2020; 192:101804. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2020.101804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Abstract
Purpose of review This review focuses on the development and progression of glioblastoma through the brain and glioma microenvironment. Specifically we highlight how the tumor microenvironment contributes to the hallmarks of cancer in hopes of offering novel therapeutic options and tools to target this microenvironment. Recent findings The hallmarks of cancer, which represent elements of cancers that contribute to the disease's malignancy, yet elements within the brain tumor microenvironment, such as other cellular types as well as biochemical and biophysical cues that can each uniquely affect tumor cells, have not been well-described in this context and serve as potential targets for modulation. Summary Here, we highlight how the brain tumor microenvironment contributes to the progression and therapeutic response of tumor cells. Specifically, we examine these contributions through the lens of Hanahan & Weinberg's Hallmarks of Cancer in order to identify potential novel targets within the brain that may offer a means to treat brain cancers, including the deadliest brain cancer, glioblastoma.
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Yavarpour-Bali H, Ghasemi-Kasman M, Shojaei A. Direct reprogramming of terminally differentiated cells into neurons: A novel and promising strategy for Alzheimer's disease treatment. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2020; 98:109820. [PMID: 31743695 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2019.109820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Glial activation is a common pathological process of the central nervous system (CNS) in disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Several approaches have been used to reduce the number of activated astrocytes and microglia in damaged areas. In recent years, various kinds of fully differentiated cells have been successfully reprogrammed to a desired type of cell in lesion areas. Interestingly, internal glial cells, including astrocytes and NG2 positive cells, were efficiently converted to neuroblasts and neurons by overexpression of some transcription factors (TFs) or microRNAs (miRNAs). Notably, some specific subtypes of neurons have been achieved by in vivo reprogramming and the resulting neurons were successfully integrated into local neuronal circuits. Furthermore, somatic cells from AD patients have been converted to functional neurons. Although direct reprogramming of a patient's own internal cells has revolutionized regenerative medicine, but there are some major obstacles that should be examined before using these induced cells in clinical therapies. In the present review article, we aim to discuss the current studies on in vitro and in vivo reprogramming of somatic cells to neurons using TFs, miRNAs or small molecules in healthy and AD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maryam Ghasemi-Kasman
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran; Neuroscience Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
| | - Amir Shojaei
- Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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31
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Valente KP, Brolo A, Suleman A. From Dermal Patch to Implants-Applications of Biocomposites in Living Tissues. Molecules 2020; 25:E507. [PMID: 31991641 PMCID: PMC7037691 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25030507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Revised: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Composites are composed of two or more materials, displaying enhanced performance and superior mechanical properties when compared to their individual components. The use of biocompatible materials has created a new category of biocomposites. Biocomposites can be applied to living tissues due to low toxicity, biodegradability and high biocompatibility. This review summarizes recent applications of biocomposite materials in the field of biomedical engineering, focusing on four areas-bone regeneration, orthopedic/dental implants, wound healing and tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexandre Brolo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada;
| | - Afzal Suleman
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada;
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32
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Baramiya MG, Baranov E. From cancer to rejuvenation: incomplete regeneration as the missing link (Part I: the same origin, different outcomes). Future Sci OA 2020; 6:FSO450. [PMID: 32140249 PMCID: PMC7050604 DOI: 10.2144/fsoa-2019-0119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we interpret malignant tissue transformation from the aging point of view, that is, as a result of insufficient cell adaptation to the needs of regeneration/repair and proliferation. A consequence of the aging (senescence) process is gradual loss of self-renewal potential. It limits lifespan and leads to death due to the decline of tissue/organ functions, failure of regulatory mechanisms, disruption of endogenous processes and increased susceptibility to exogenous factors. Recapitulation of the embryonic pathway of self-renewal/rejuvenation in adulthood is epigenetically determined. At the postembryonic stage, in the absence of immune privilege, this recapitulation is transformed into cancer (potency expansion of single structures composing the organism to the detriment of the whole organism or disintegrating growth). We suggest that the process of rebirth occurs in the same way as embryonic tissue growth. Thus, the idea to use the potential of the transformed cells to stop the aging process has been proposed.
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HORISAWA K, SUZUKI A. Direct cell-fate conversion of somatic cells: Toward regenerative medicine and industries. PROCEEDINGS OF THE JAPAN ACADEMY. SERIES B, PHYSICAL AND BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2020; 96:131-158. [PMID: 32281550 PMCID: PMC7247973 DOI: 10.2183/pjab.96.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Cells of multicellular organisms have diverse characteristics despite having the same genetic identity. The distinctive phenotype of each cell is determined by molecular mechanisms such as epigenetic changes that occur throughout the lifetime of an individual. Recently, technologies that enable modification of the fate of somatic cells have been developed, and the number of studies using these technologies has increased drastically in the last decade. Various cell types, including neuronal cells, cardiomyocytes, and hepatocytes, have been generated using these technologies. Although most direct reprogramming methods employ forced transduction of a defined sets of transcription factors to reprogram cells in a manner similar to induced pluripotent cell technology, many other strategies, such as methods utilizing chemical compounds and microRNAs to change the fate of somatic cells, have also been developed. In this review, we summarize transcription factor-based reprogramming and various other reprogramming methods. Additionally, we describe the various industrial applications of direct reprogramming technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi HORISAWA
- Division of Organogenesis and Regeneration, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Atsushi SUZUKI
- Division of Organogenesis and Regeneration, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
- Correspondence should be addressed: A. Suzuki, Division of Organogenesis and Regeneration, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan (e-mail: )
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de la Vega L, Lee C, Sharma R, Amereh M, Willerth SM. 3D bioprinting models of neural tissues: The current state of the field and future directions. Brain Res Bull 2019; 150:240-249. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2019.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Cheng X, Tan Z, Huang X, Yuan Y, Qin S, Gu Y, Wang D, He C, Su Z. Inhibition of Glioma Development by ASCL1-Mediated Direct Neuronal Reprogramming. Cells 2019; 8:cells8060571. [PMID: 31212628 PMCID: PMC6627512 DOI: 10.3390/cells8060571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 06/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct conversion of non-neural cells into induced neurons holds great promise for brain repair. As the most common malignant tumor in the central nervous system, glioma is currently incurable due to its exponential growth and invasive behavior. Given that neurons are irreversible postmitotic cells, reprogramming glioma cells into terminally differentiated neuron-like cells represents a potential approach to inhibit brain tumor development. We here show that human glioma cells can be directly, rapidly and efficiently reprogrammed into terminally differentiated neuron-like cells by the single transcription factor ASCL1 (Achaete-scute complex-like 1, also known as MASH1). These induced cells exhibit typical neuron-like morphology and express multiple neuron-specific markers. Importantly, ASCL1-mediated neuronal reprogramming drives human glioma cells to exit the cell cycle and results in dramatic inhibition of proliferation, both in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, this proof-of-principle study demonstrates a potential strategy for impeding brain tumor development by ASCL1-induced direct neuronal reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyan Cheng
- Center for Brain Disorders Research, Capital Medical University; Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100020, China.
- Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology of Ministry of Education and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Zijian Tan
- Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology of Ministry of Education and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Xiao Huang
- Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology of Ministry of Education and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Yimin Yuan
- Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology of Ministry of Education and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Shangyao Qin
- Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology of Ministry of Education and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Yakun Gu
- Center for Brain Disorders Research, Capital Medical University; Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100020, China.
- Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology of Ministry of Education and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Dan Wang
- Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology of Ministry of Education and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Cheng He
- Center for Brain Disorders Research, Capital Medical University; Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100020, China.
- Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology of Ministry of Education and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Zhida Su
- Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology of Ministry of Education and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
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Zhao Y. Chemically induced cell fate reprogramming and the acquisition of plasticity in somatic cells. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2019; 51:146-153. [PMID: 31153758 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2019.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The nature of somatic cell fate has always been considered relatively unchangeable. Only in rare cases, in response to highly specific environmental cues, do differentiated mammalian somatic cells transform into other cell types. However, the fact that cell fate reprogramming can be accomplished by utilizing chemical cocktails, in the absence of any genetic alterations, suggests that the fate determination of somatic cells is much more malleable than previously believed. The use of chemical cocktails to directly alter cell fate sheds light on an important, yet less explored approach to regenerative medicine: the use of chemicals to restore functions to injured, aging or diseased tissues. Here, we review and discuss the recent developments, inspirations, and challenges encountered when modulating cell fate reprogramming with chemicals, and investigate how chemical biology impacts the future of cell fate reprogramming and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, MOE Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiometabolic Molecular Medicine, Center for Life Sciences, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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Abelseth E, Abelseth L, De la Vega L, Beyer ST, Wadsworth SJ, Willerth SM. 3D Printing of Neural Tissues Derived from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Using a Fibrin-Based Bioink. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2018; 5:234-243. [DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.8b01235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Simon T. Beyer
- Aspect Biosystems, 1781 W 75th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia V6P 6P2, Canada
| | - Samuel J. Wadsworth
- Aspect Biosystems, 1781 W 75th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia V6P 6P2, Canada
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Robinson M, Fraser I, McKee E, Scheck K, Chang L, Willerth SM. Transdifferentiating Astrocytes Into Neurons Using ASCL1 Functionalized With a Novel Intracellular Protein Delivery Technology. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2018; 6:173. [PMID: 30525033 PMCID: PMC6258721 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2018.00173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular transdifferentiation changes mature cells from one phenotype into another by altering their gene expression patterns. Manipulating expression of transcription factors, proteins that bind to DNA promoter regions, regulates the levels of key developmental genes. Viral delivery of transcription factors can efficiently reprogram somatic cells, but this method possesses undesirable side effects, including mutations leading to oncogenesis. Using protein transduction domains (PTDs) fused to transcription factors to deliver exogenous transcription factors serves as an alternative strategy that avoids the issues associated with DNA integration into the host genome. However, lysosomal degradation and inefficient nuclear localization pose significant barriers when performing PTD-mediated reprogramming. Here, we investigate a novel PTD by placing a secretion signal sequence next to a cleavage inhibition sequence at the end of the target transcription factor–achaete scute homolog 1 (ASCL1), a powerful regulator of neurogenesis, resulting in superior stability and nuclear localization. A fusion protein consisting of the amino acid sequence of ASCL1 transcription factor with this novel PTD added can transdifferentiate cerebral cortex astrocytes into neurons. Additionally, we show that the synergistic action of certain small molecules improves the efficiency of the transdifferentiation process. This study serves as the first step toward developing a clinically relevant in vivo transdifferentiation strategy for converting astrocytes into neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan Robinson
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Ian Fraser
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.,Biomedical Engineering Program, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Emily McKee
- Biomedical Engineering Program, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Kali Scheck
- Biology Program, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Lillian Chang
- Biochemistry Program, Bates College, Lewiston, ME, United States
| | - Stephanie M Willerth
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.,Biomedical Engineering Program, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.,Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.,Center for Biomedical Research, Faculty of Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.,International Collaboration for Repair Discovery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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