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Habib MZ, Elnahas EM, Aboul-Ela YM, Ebeid MA, Tarek M, Sadek DR, Negm EA, Abdelhakam DA, Aboul-Fotouh S. Risperidone impedes glutamate excitotoxicity in a valproic acid rat model of autism: Role of ADAR2 in AMPA GluA2 RNA editing. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 955:175916. [PMID: 37460052 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175916] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Several reports indicate a plausible role of calcium (Ca2+) permeable AMPA glutamate receptors (with RNA hypo-editing at the GluA2 Q/R site) and the subsequent excitotoxicity-mediated neuronal death in the pathogenesis of a wide array of neurological disorders including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study was designed to examine the effects of chronic risperidone treatment on the expression of adenosine deaminase acting on RNA 2 (Adar2), the status of AMPA glutamate receptor GluA2 editing, and its effects on oxidative/nitrosative stress and excitotoxicity-mediated neuronal death in the prenatal valproic acid (VPA) rat model of ASD. Prenatal VPA exposure was associated with autistic-like behaviors accompanied by an increase in the apoptotic marker "caspase-3" and a decrease in the antiapoptotic marker "BCL2" alongside a reduction in the Adar2 relative gene expression and an increase in GluA2 Q:R ratio in the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex. Risperidone, at doses of 1 and 3 mg, improved the VPA-induced behavioral deficits and enhanced the Adar2 relative gene expression and the subsequent GluA2 subunit editing. This was reflected on the cellular level where risperidone impeded VPA-induced oxidative/nitrosative stress and neurodegenerative changes. In conclusion, the present study confirms a possible role for Adar2 downregulation and the subsequent hypo-editing of the GluA2 subunit in the pathophysiology of the prenatal VPA rat model of autism and highlights the favorable effect of risperidone on reversing the RNA editing machinery deficits, giving insights into a new possible mechanism of risperidone in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Z Habib
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Esraa M Elnahas
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Yasmin M Aboul-Ela
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mai A Ebeid
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa Tarek
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Doaa R Sadek
- Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Eman A Negm
- Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Dina A Abdelhakam
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sawsan Aboul-Fotouh
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt; Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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2
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Rosenblau G, Frolichs K, Korn CW. A neuro-computational social learning framework to facilitate transdiagnostic classification and treatment across psychiatric disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 149:105181. [PMID: 37062494 PMCID: PMC10236440 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Social deficits are among the core and most striking psychiatric symptoms, present in most psychiatric disorders. Here, we introduce a novel social learning framework, which consists of neuro-computational models that combine reinforcement learning with various types of social knowledge structures. We outline how this social learning framework can help specify and quantify social psychopathology across disorders and provide an overview of the brain regions that may be involved in this type of social learning. We highlight how this framework can specify commonalities and differences in the social psychopathology of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), personality disorders (PD), and major depressive disorder (MDD) and improve treatments on an individual basis. We conjecture that individuals with psychiatric disorders rely on rigid social knowledge representations when learning about others, albeit the nature of their rigidity and the behavioral consequences can greatly differ. While non-clinical cohorts tend to efficiently adapt social knowledge representations to relevant environmental constraints, psychiatric cohorts may rigidly stick to their preconceived notions or overly coarse knowledge representations during learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Rosenblau
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington DC, USA; Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders Institute, George Washington University, Washington DC, USA.
| | - Koen Frolichs
- Section Social Neuroscience, Department of General Psychiatry, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Institute for Systems Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christoph W Korn
- Section Social Neuroscience, Department of General Psychiatry, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Institute for Systems Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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3
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Su Y, Yang X, Yang L, Liu X, She Z, Zhang Y, Dong Z. Thyroid hormones regulate reelin expression in neuropsychiatric disorders. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2022; 100:1033-1044. [PMID: 36166833 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2022-0270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The incidence and prevalence of hypothyroidism in pregnancy have increased over the past two decades, leading to the occurrence of neuropsychiatric disorders. However, the underlying mechanisms of thyroid hormone (TH)-regulated gene expression and neuropsychiatric development during the postnatal period remain unknown. Recent achievements have shown that reelin, a large extracellular glycoprotein, plays a crucial role in neuronal migration and localization during the development of neocortex and cerebellar cortex, thereby participating in the development of neuropsychiatric diseases. Reelin-induced neuronal migration requires triiodothyronine (T3) from the deiodination of thyroxine (T4) by fetal brain deiodinases. Previous studies have reported decreased reelin levels and abnormal gene expression, which are the same as the pathological alternations in reelin-induced neuropsychiatric disorders including schizophrenia and autism. Low T3 in the fetal brain due to hypothyroxinemia during pregnancy may be detrimental to neuronal migration, leading to neuropsychiatric disorders. In this review, we focus on the reelin expression between hypothyroidism and neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yadi Su
- College of Stomatology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 401334, PR China
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- College of Pediatrics, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 401334, PR China
| | - Lu Yang
- College of Stomatology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 401334, PR China
| | - Xinjing Liu
- College of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 401334, PR China
| | - Zhenghang She
- College of Pediatrics, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 401334, PR China
| | - Youwen Zhang
- College of Pediatrics, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 401334, PR China
| | - Zhifang Dong
- Pediatric Research Institute, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medical Research in Cognitive Development and Learning and Memory Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, PR China
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4
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Ali ZA, Yasseen AA, McAllister KA, Al-Dujailli A, Al-Karaqully AJ, Jumaah AS. SNP-PCR genotyping links alterations in the GABAA receptor (GABRG3: rs208129) and RELN (rs73670) genes to autism spectrum disorder among peadiatric Iraqi Arabs. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:6019-6028. [PMID: 35403940 PMCID: PMC9270290 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07388-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an increasing concern among the Iraqi Arab population. The genetic alterations that cause ASD are likely to converge at the synapse. This study investigated polymorphisms in the GABAA receptor subunit (GABRG3) and the RELN gene as putative biomarkers of ASD in a pediatric population in Iraq. METHODS The case control study included 60 patients with a clinical diagnosis of ASD (mild, moderate, or severe) according to DSM-IV criteria and matched healthy controls (n = 60). Blood samples were collected for DNA genotyping of SNPs rs736707 and rs208129 for RELN and GABRG3 using allele specific PCR. Assessment of genotype and allele distributions in patient groups used odd ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals and the Chi-square test. All statistical analysis was performed used SPSS software. RESULT The patient cohort was highly consanguineous, with increased ratio (p > 0.05) of males to females (3:1) in both ASD (mean age, 6.66 ± 3.05) and controls (mean age, 5.76 ± 2.3). Both GABRG3 rs208129 genotypes TT (OR 4.33, p = 0.0015) and TA (OR 0.259, P = 0.008), and the T and A alleles were significantly associated with ASD. The RELN rs736707 TC genotype (OR 2.626, P = 0.034) was the only significant association with ASD. CONCLUSION GABRG3 SNP rs208129 is a leading biomarker to predict genetic vulnerability to ASD in Iraqi Arabs. Expanded SNP panels and increased sample sizes are required for future GABRG3 studies, and to reach a consensus on RELN utility. Future ASD screening programs in Iraq should include genetic metrics in addition to clinical phenotype assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab A. Ali
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kerbala, Kerbala Governorate, Iraq
| | - Akeel A. Yasseen
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, P.O. Box 21, Kufa, Iraq
| | | | - Arafat Al-Dujailli
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, P.O. Box 21, Kufa, Iraq
| | | | - Alaa S. Jumaah
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, P.O. Box 21, Kufa, Iraq
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Scala M, Grasso EA, Di Cara G, Riva A, Striano P, Verrotti A. The Pathophysiological Link Between Reelin and Autism: Overview and New Insights. Front Genet 2022; 13:869002. [PMID: 35422848 PMCID: PMC9002092 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.869002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Reelin is a secreted extracellular matrix protein playing pivotal roles in neuronal migration and cortical stratification during embryonal brain development. In the adult brain, its activity is crucial for synaptic plasticity, memory processing, and cognition. Genetic alterations in RELN have been variably reported as possible contributors to the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). In particular, GCCs repeats in the 5′UTR, and single nucleotide polymorphysms (SNPs) in RELN have been suggested to affect brain development and predispose to autism. We reviewed pertinent literature on RELN expression and haplotypes transmission in children with ASD, critically analyzing available evidence in support of the pathophysiological association between Reelin deficiency and ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Scala
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal, and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Di Cara
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pediatric Clinic, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Antonella Riva
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal, and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Pasquale Striano
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal, and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Alberto Verrotti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pediatric Clinic, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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Mapelli L, Soda T, D’Angelo E, Prestori F. The Cerebellar Involvement in Autism Spectrum Disorders: From the Social Brain to Mouse Models. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073894. [PMID: 35409253 PMCID: PMC8998980 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are pervasive neurodevelopmental disorders that include a variety of forms and clinical phenotypes. This heterogeneity complicates the clinical and experimental approaches to ASD etiology and pathophysiology. To date, a unifying theory of these diseases is still missing. Nevertheless, the intense work of researchers and clinicians in the last decades has identified some ASD hallmarks and the primary brain areas involved. Not surprisingly, the areas that are part of the so-called “social brain”, and those strictly connected to them, were found to be crucial, such as the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, hippocampus, limbic system, and dopaminergic pathways. With the recent acknowledgment of the cerebellar contribution to cognitive functions and the social brain, its involvement in ASD has become unmistakable, though its extent is still to be elucidated. In most cases, significant advances were made possible by recent technological developments in structural/functional assessment of the human brain and by using mouse models of ASD. Mouse models are an invaluable tool to get insights into the molecular and cellular counterparts of the disease, acting on the specific genetic background generating ASD-like phenotype. Given the multifaceted nature of ASD and related studies, it is often difficult to navigate the literature and limit the huge content to specific questions. This review fulfills the need for an organized, clear, and state-of-the-art perspective on cerebellar involvement in ASD, from its connections to the social brain areas (which are the primary sites of ASD impairments) to the use of monogenic mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Mapelli
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (T.S.); (E.D.)
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (F.P.)
| | - Teresa Soda
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (T.S.); (E.D.)
| | - Egidio D’Angelo
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (T.S.); (E.D.)
- Brain Connectivity Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesca Prestori
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (T.S.); (E.D.)
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (F.P.)
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7
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Liu X, Bennison SA, Robinson L, Toyo-oka K. Responsible Genes for Neuronal Migration in the Chromosome 17p13.3: Beyond Pafah1b1(Lis1), Crk and Ywhae(14-3-3ε). Brain Sci 2021; 12:brainsci12010056. [PMID: 35053800 PMCID: PMC8774252 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12010056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The 17p13.3 chromosome region is often deleted or duplicated in humans, resulting in severe neurodevelopmental disorders such as Miller–Dieker syndrome (MDS) and 17p13.3 duplication syndrome. Lissencephaly can also be caused by gene mutations or deletions of a small piece of the 17p13.3 region, including a single gene or a few genes. PAFAH1B1 gene, coding for LIS1 protein, is a responsible gene for lissencephaly and MDS and regulates neuronal migration by controlling microtubules (MTs) and cargo transport along MTs via dynein. CRK is a downstream regulator of the reelin signaling pathways and regulates neuronal migration. YWHAE, coding for 14-3-3ε, is also responsible for MDS and regulates neuronal migration by binding to LIS1-interacting protein, NDEL1. Although these three proteins are known to be responsible for neuronal migration defects in MDS, there are 23 other genes in the MDS critical region on chromosome 17p13.3, and little is known about their functions in neurodevelopment, especially in neuronal migration. This review will summarize the recent progress on the functions of LIS1, CRK, and 14-3-3ε and describe the recent findings of other molecules in the MDS critical regions in neuronal migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaonan Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA;
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA; (S.A.B.); (L.R.)
| | - Sarah A. Bennison
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA; (S.A.B.); (L.R.)
| | - Lozen Robinson
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA; (S.A.B.); (L.R.)
| | - Kazuhito Toyo-oka
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA; (S.A.B.); (L.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(215)-991-8288
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8
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Cerebellar Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Pilot Study on Efficacy, Feasibility, Safety, and Unexpected Outcomes in Tic Disorder and Epilepsy. J Clin Med 2021; 11:jcm11010143. [PMID: 35011884 PMCID: PMC8745597 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11010143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) display distinctive neurophysiological characteristics associated with significant cognitive, emotional, and behavioral symptoms. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) applied to the frontal or temporoparietal lobes has demonstrated potential to reduce the severity of ASD-related symptoms. Recently, the cerebellum has been identified as a brain area involved in ASD pathophysiology. In this open-label pilot study, seven ASD patients aged between 9 and 13 years underwent 20 daily sessions of 20 min cathodal stimulation of the right cerebellar lobe. At the end of the treatment, the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC) scores showed a 25% mean reduction in global severity of symptoms, with a more pronounced reduction in the “social withdrawal and lethargy” (−35%), “hyperactivity and noncompliance” (−26%), and “irritability, agitation, and crying” (−25%) subscales. Minor and no improvement were observed in the “stereotypic behavior” (−18%) and “inappropriate speech” (−0%) subscales, respectively. Improvements were not detected in the two patients who were taking psychotropic drugs during the study. Clinical response showed a symptom-specific time course. Quality of sleep and mood improved earlier than hyperactivity and social withdrawal. The treatment was generally accepted by patients and well tolerated. No serious adverse events were reported. Stimulation also appeared to markedly reduce the severity of tics in a patient with comorbid tic disorder and led to the disappearance of a frontal epileptogenic focus in another patient with a history of seizures. In conclusion, cerebellar tDCS is safe, feasible, and potentially effective in the treatment of ASD symptoms among children. Strategies to improve recruitment and retention are discussed.
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9
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Ahmed S, Rakib A, Uddin MMN, Islam MS, Ullah SA, Emran TB. Association of reelin gene (RELN) polymorphism with autism spectrum disorder in the Bangladeshi population. Meta Gene 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mgene.2021.100901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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10
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Fetit R, Hillary RF, Price DJ, Lawrie SM. The neuropathology of autism: A systematic review of post-mortem studies of autism and related disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 129:35-62. [PMID: 34273379 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Post-mortem studies allow for the direct investigation of brain tissue in those with autism and related disorders. Several review articles have focused on aspects of post-mortem abnormalities but none has brought together the entire post-mortem literature. Here, we systematically review the evidence from post-mortem studies of autism, and of related disorders that present with autistic features. The literature consists of a small body of studies with small sample sizes, but several remarkably consistent findings are evident. Cortical layering is largely undisturbed, but there are consistent reductions in minicolumn numbers and aberrant myelination. Transcriptomics repeatedly implicate abberant synaptic, metabolic, proliferation, apoptosis and immune pathways. Sufficient replicated evidence is available to implicate non-coding RNA, aberrant epigenetic profiles, GABAergic, glutamatergic and glial dysfunction in autism pathogenesis. Overall, the cerebellum and frontal cortex are most consistently implicated, sometimes revealing distinct region-specific alterations. The literature on related disorders such as Rett syndrome, Fragile X and copy number variations (CNVs) predisposing to autism is particularly small and inconclusive. Larger studies, matched for gender, developmental stage, co-morbidities and drug treatment are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Fetit
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK.
| | - Robert F Hillary
- Centre for Genomic and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU, UK
| | - David J Price
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Stephen M Lawrie
- Division of Psychiatry, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH10 5HF, UK; Patrick Wild Centre, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH10 5HF, UK
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11
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Rizk M, Saker Z, Harati H, Fares Y, Bahmad HF, Nabha S. Deciphering the roles of glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) in the treatment of autism spectrum disorder and related syndromes. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:2669-2686. [PMID: 33650079 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06237-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex and multifactorial neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by the presence of restricted interests and repetitive behaviors besides deficits in social communication. Syndromic ASD is a subset of ASD caused by underlying genetic disorders, most commonly Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) and Rett Syndrome (RTT). Various mutations and consequent malfunctions in core signaling pathways have been identified in ASD, including glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3). A growing body of evidence suggests a key role of GSK3 dysregulation in the pathogenesis of ASD and its related disorders. Here, we provide a synopsis of the implication of GSK3 in ASD, FXS, and RTT as a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Rizk
- Neuroscience Research Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Zahraa Saker
- Neuroscience Research Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hayat Harati
- Neuroscience Research Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Youssef Fares
- Neuroscience Research Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hisham F Bahmad
- Arkadi M. Rywlin M.D. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Rd, Miami Beach, FL, 33140, USA
| | - Sanaa Nabha
- Neuroscience Research Center, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon.
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12
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Iemolo A, Montilla-Perez P, Nguyen J, Risbrough VB, Taffe MA, Telese F. Reelin deficiency contributes to long-term behavioral abnormalities induced by chronic adolescent exposure to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol in mice. Neuropharmacology 2021; 187:108495. [PMID: 33582152 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis use is widespread among adolescents and has been associated with long-term negative outcomes on neurocognitive functions. However, the factors that contribute to the long-term detrimental effects of cannabis use remain poorly understood. Here, we studied how Reelin deficiency influences the behavior of mice exposed to cannabis during adolescence. Reelin is a gene implicated in the development of the brain and of psychiatric disorders. To this aim, heterozygous Reeler (HR) mice, that express reduced level of Reelin, were chronically injected during adolescence with high doses (10 mg/kg) of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a major psychoactive component of cannabis. Two weeks after the last injection of THC, mice were tested with multiple behavioral assays, including working memory, social interaction, locomotor activity, anxiety-like responses, stress reactivity, and pre-pulse inhibition. Compared to wild-type (WT), HR mice treated with THC showed impaired social behaviors, elevated disinhibitory phenotypes and increased reactivity to aversive situations, in a sex-specific manner. Overall, these findings show that Reelin deficiency influences behavioral abnormalities caused by heavy consumption of THC during adolescence and suggest that elucidating Reelin signaling will improve our understanding of neurobiological mechanisms underlying behavioral traits relevant to the development of psychiatric conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attilio Iemolo
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | | | - Jacques Nguyen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Victoria B Risbrough
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA; Center for Excellence in Stress and Mental Health, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA
| | - Michael A Taffe
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Francesca Telese
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
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13
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Timing behavior in genetic murine models of neurological and psychiatric diseases. Exp Brain Res 2021; 239:699-717. [PMID: 33404792 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-020-06021-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
How timing behavior is altered in different neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders is a contemporary research question. Genetic murine models (GMM) that offer high construct validity also serve as useful tools to investigate this question. But the literature on timing behavior of different GMMs largely remains to be consolidated. The current paper addresses this gap by reviewing studies that have been conducted with GMMs of neurodevelopmental (e.g. ADHD, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder), neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease) as well as circadian and other mutant lines. The review focuses on those studies that specifically utilized the peak interval procedure to improve the comparability of findings both within and between different disease models. The reviewed studies revealed timing deficits that are characteristic of different disorders. Specifically, Huntington's disease models had weaker temporal control over the termination of their anticipatory responses, Alzheimer's disease models had earlier timed responses, schizophrenia models had weaker temporal control, circadian mutants had shifted timed responses consistent with shifts in the circadian periods. The differences in timing behavior were less consistent for other conditions such as attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder and mutations related to intellectual disability. We discuss the implications of these findings for the neural basis of an internal stopwatch. Finally, we make methodological recommendations for future research for improving the comparability of the timing behavior across different murine models.
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Ayaydın H, Kirmit A, Çelik H, Akaltun İ, Koyuncu İ, Bilgen Ulgar Ş. High Serum Levels of Serum 100 Beta Protein, Neuron-specific Enolase, Tau, Active Caspase-3, M30 and M65 in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE 2020; 18:270-278. [PMID: 32329316 PMCID: PMC7242104 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2020.18.2.270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Objective The purpose of this study was therefore to investigate whether neuronal, axonal, and glial cell markers (Neuron-specific enolase [NSE], tau, serum 100 beta protein [S100B], respectively) and apoptosis markers (active caspase 3, M30, M65) and whether these parameters can be used as diagnostic biomarkers in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Methods This study measured the serum S100B, NSE, tau, active caspase 3, M30, and M65 levels in 43 patients with ASD (aged 3−12 years) and in 41 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. ASD severity was rated using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale. The serum levels were determined in the biochemistry laboratory using the ELISA technique. The receiver operator characteristics curve method was employed to evaluate the accuracy of the parameters in diagnosing ASD. Results Serum S100B, tau, NSE, active caspase-3, M30, and M65 levels were significantly higher in the patient group than in the control group (p < 0.001, p = 0.002, p = 0.002, p = 0.005, p < 0.001, and p = 0.004, respectively). The cut-off value of S100B was 48.085 pg/ml (sensitivity: 74.4%, specificity: 80.5%, areas under the curve: 0.879, p < 0.001). Conclusion Apoptosis increased in children with ASD, and neuronal, axonal, and glial cell injury was observed. In addition, S100B may be an important diagnostic biomarker in patients with ASD. Apoptosis, and neuronal, axonal and astrocyte pathologies may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of ASD, and further studies are now required to confirm this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Ayaydın
- Departments of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gaziantep Dr. Ersin Arslan Training and Research Hospital, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Adnan Kirmit
- Departments of Biochemistry, Gaziantep Dr. Ersin Arslan Training and Research Hospital, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Hakim Çelik
- Departments of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Gaziantep Dr. Ersin Arslan Training and Research Hospital, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - İsmail Akaltun
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gaziantep Dr. Ersin Arslan Training and Research Hospital, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - İsmail Koyuncu
- Departments of Biochemistry, Gaziantep Dr. Ersin Arslan Training and Research Hospital, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Şermin Bilgen Ulgar
- Departments of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gaziantep Dr. Ersin Arslan Training and Research Hospital, Gaziantep, Turkey
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Cuchillo-Ibáñez I, Andreo-Lillo P, Pastor-Ferrándiz L, Carratalá-Marco F, Sáez-Valero J. Elevated Plasma Reelin Levels in Children With Autism. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:242. [PMID: 32292362 PMCID: PMC7135852 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders involving age-dependent gene dysregulation. Reelin is a glycoprotein that varies its expression throughout lifetime and controls cortical patterning and synaptogenesis. Brain and plasma reelin levels have been reported to be low in adults with autism; as well as in children with autism, but only when compared to control adults. Therefore, reelin expression levels in children with autism are unclear. For this reason, we compared plasma reelin levels in children with autism and children without autism (non-ASD) of similar ages to evaluate reelin expression in ASD during childhood. Plasma samples from 19 non-ASD (8.9 ± 0.8 years) and 40 children with autism (7.5 ± 0.5 years) were analyzed. We found that 50% of the children with autism displayed similar plasma reelin levels to the non-ASD group. However, the remaining 50% expressed more than 30 times more reelin compared to non-ASD levels. We also show that male children with autism displayed significantly higher reelin levels than females. The clinical presentation of this subgroup could not be distinguished from that of children with autism. Epilepsy or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was not associated to reelin levels. We conclude that the high levels of plasma reelin might be an important hallmark in a subset of children with autism, previously unnoticed. As we could not find any correlation between reelin levels and ASD clinical presentations, our results may indicate transient reelin increases in the plasma or the characterization of a group of ASD individuals with a different pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inmaculada Cuchillo-Ibáñez
- Instituto de Neurociencias de Alicante, Department of Molecular Neurobiology and Neuropathology, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Sant Joan d'Alacant, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Sant Joan d'Alacant, Spain
| | - Patricia Andreo-Lillo
- Neuropediatric Unit, Pediatric Department, University Hospital of Sant Joan d'Alacant, Sant Joan d'Alacant, Spain
| | - Lorena Pastor-Ferrándiz
- Neuropediatric Unit, Pediatric Department, University Hospital of Sant Joan d'Alacant, Sant Joan d'Alacant, Spain
| | - Francisco Carratalá-Marco
- Neuropediatric Unit, Pediatric Department, University Hospital of Sant Joan d'Alacant, Sant Joan d'Alacant, Spain
| | - Javier Sáez-Valero
- Instituto de Neurociencias de Alicante, Department of Molecular Neurobiology and Neuropathology, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Sant Joan d'Alacant, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Sant Joan d'Alacant, Spain
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The Reeler Mouse: A Translational Model of Human Neurological Conditions, or Simply a Good Tool for Better Understanding Neurodevelopment? J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8122088. [PMID: 31805691 PMCID: PMC6947477 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8122088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The first description of the Reeler mutation in mouse dates to more than fifty years ago, and later, its causative gene (reln) was discovered in mouse, and its human orthologue (RELN) was demonstrated to be causative of lissencephaly 2 (LIS2) and about 20% of the cases of autosomal-dominant lateral temporal epilepsy (ADLTE). In both human and mice, the gene encodes for a glycoprotein referred to as reelin (Reln) that plays a primary function in neuronal migration during development and synaptic stabilization in adulthood. Besides LIS2 and ADLTE, RELN and/or other genes coding for the proteins of the Reln intracellular cascade have been associated substantially to other conditions such as spinocerebellar ataxia type 7 and 37, VLDLR-associated cerebellar hypoplasia, PAFAH1B1-associated lissencephaly, autism, and schizophrenia. According to their modalities of inheritances and with significant differences among each other, these neuropsychiatric disorders can be modeled in the homozygous (reln−/−) or heterozygous (reln+/−) Reeler mouse. The worth of these mice as translational models is discussed, with focus on their construct and face validity. Description of face validity, i.e., the resemblance of phenotypes between the two species, centers onto the histological, neurochemical, and functional observations in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum of Reeler mice and their human counterparts.
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Assessment of Apoptosis Pathway in Peripheral Blood of Autistic Patients. J Mol Neurosci 2019; 69:588-596. [PMID: 31363911 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-019-01387-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) includes a number of severe neurodevelopmental disorders known by defects in social interaction, impaired verbal and non-verbal interactions, and stereotypic activities and limited interests. Dysregulation of apoptotic pathways have been demonstrated in brain tissues of affected individuals. In the present study, we evaluated expression levels of apoptosis-related genes and miRNAs in peripheral blood of ASD patients compared with healthy subjects. Transcript levels of BCL2, CASP8, and hsa-29c-3p were significantly lower in total ASD patients compared with total normal children (P values = 0.003, 0.002, and 0.01 respectively). When sex of study participants was considered in the analysis, the difference in transcript levels of these genes was significant only in male subjects. Peripheral expression of BCL2 and hsa-29c-3p had 100% sensitivity 92% specificity in ASD diagnosis. The diagnostic power of combination of transcript levels of these genes was estimated to be 78% based on the calculated AUC value. The present study provides evidences for dysregulation of apoptotic pathways in peripheral blood of ASD patients and suggests certain apoptosis-related genes as biomarkers in this regard.
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Lien YC, Condon DE, Georgieff MK, Simmons RA, Tran PV. Dysregulation of Neuronal Genes by Fetal-Neonatal Iron Deficiency Anemia Is Associated with Altered DNA Methylation in the Rat Hippocampus. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11051191. [PMID: 31137889 PMCID: PMC6566599 DOI: 10.3390/nu11051191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Early-life iron deficiency results in long-term abnormalities in cognitive function and affective behavior in adulthood. In preclinical models, these effects have been associated with long-term dysregulation of key neuronal genes. While limited evidence suggests histone methylation as an epigenetic mechanism underlying gene dysregulation, the role of DNA methylation remains unknown. To determine whether DNA methylation is a potential mechanism by which early-life iron deficiency induces gene dysregulation, we performed whole genome bisulfite sequencing to identify loci with altered DNA methylation in the postnatal day (P) 15 iron-deficient (ID) rat hippocampus, a time point at which the highest level of hippocampal iron deficiency is concurrent with peak iron demand for axonal and dendritic growth. We identified 229 differentially methylated loci and they were mapped within 108 genes. Among them, 63 and 45 genes showed significantly increased and decreased DNA methylation in the P15 ID hippocampus, respectively. To establish a correlation between differentially methylated loci and gene dysregulation, the methylome data were compared to our published P15 hippocampal transcriptome. Both datasets showed alteration of similar functional networks regulating nervous system development and cell-to-cell signaling that are critical for learning and behavior. Collectively, the present findings support a role for DNA methylation in neural gene dysregulation following early-life iron deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chin Lien
- Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, Perelman School of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - David E Condon
- Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, Perelman School of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Michael K Georgieff
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - Rebecca A Simmons
- Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, Perelman School of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Phu V Tran
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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Castagna C, Merighi A, Lossi L. Decreased Expression of Synaptophysin 1 (SYP1 Major Synaptic Vesicle Protein p38) and Contactin 6 (CNTN6/NB3) in the Cerebellar Vermis of reln Haplodeficient Mice. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2019; 39:833-856. [PMID: 31098770 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-019-00683-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Reeler heterozygous mice (reln+/-) are seemingly normal but haplodeficient in reln, a gene implicated in autism. Structural/neurochemical alterations in the reln+/- brain are subtle and difficult to demonstrate. Therefore, the usefulness of these mice in translational research is still debated. As evidence implicated several synapse-related genes in autism and the cerebellar vermis is structurally altered in the condition, we have investigated the expression of synaptophysin 1 (SYP1) and contactin 6 (CNTN6) within the vermis of reln+/- mice. Semi-thin plastic sections of the vermis from adult mice of both sexes and different genotypes (reln+/- and reln+/+) were processed with an indirect immunofluorescence protocol. Immunofluorescence was quantified on binary images and statistically analyzed. Reln+/- males displayed a statistically significant reduction of 11.89% in the expression of SYP1 compared to sex-matched wild-type animals, whereas no differences were observed between reln+/+ and reln+/- females. In reln+/- male mice, reductions were particularly evident in the molecular layer: 10.23% less SYP1 than reln+/+ males and 5.84% < reln+/+ females. In reln+/- females, decrease was 9.84% versus reln+/+ males and 5.43% versus reln+/+ females. Both reln+/- males and females showed a stronger decrease in CNTN6 expression throughout all the three cortical layers of the vermis: 17-23% in the granular layer, 24-26% in the Purkinje cell layer, and 9-14% in the molecular layer. Altogether, decrease of vermian SYP1 and CNTN6 in reln+/- mice displayed patterns compatible with the structural modifications of the autistic cerebellum. Therefore, these mice may be a good model in translational studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Castagna
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, I-10095, Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy.
| | - Adalberto Merighi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, I-10095, Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Laura Lossi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, I-10095, Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
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Waugh DT. The Contribution of Fluoride to the Pathogenesis of Eye Diseases: Molecular Mechanisms and Implications for Public Health. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E856. [PMID: 30857240 PMCID: PMC6427526 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16050856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
This study provides diverse lines of evidence demonstrating that fluoride (F) exposure contributes to degenerative eye diseases by stimulating or inhibiting biological pathways associated with the pathogenesis of cataract, age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma. As elucidated in this study, F exerts this effect by inhibiting enolase, τ-crystallin, Hsp40, Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase, Nrf2, γ -GCS, HO-1 Bcl-2, FoxO1, SOD, PON-1 and glutathione activity, and upregulating NF-κB, IL-6, AGEs, HsP27 and Hsp70 expression. Moreover, F exposure leads to enhanced oxidative stress and impaired antioxidant activity. Based on the evidence presented in this study, it can be concluded that F exposure may be added to the list of identifiable risk factors associated with pathogenesis of degenerative eye diseases. The broader impact of these findings suggests that reducing F intake may lead to an overall reduction in the modifiable risk factors associated with degenerative eye diseases. Further studies are required to examine this association and determine differences in prevalence rates amongst fluoridated and non-fluoridated communities, taking into consideration other dietary sources of F such as tea. Finally, the findings of this study elucidate molecular pathways associated with F exposure that may suggest a possible association between F exposure and other inflammatory diseases. Further studies are also warranted to examine these associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Declan Timothy Waugh
- EnviroManagement Services, 11 Riverview, Doherty's Rd, Bandon, P72 YF10 Co. Cork, Ireland.
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21
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Developmental protein kinase C hyper-activation results in microcephaly and behavioral abnormalities in zebrafish. Transl Psychiatry 2018; 8:232. [PMID: 30352990 PMCID: PMC6199330 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-018-0285-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Susceptible genetic polymorphisms and altered expression levels of protein kinase C (PKC)-encoding genes suggest overactivation of PKC in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) development. To delineate the pathological role of PKC, we pharmacologically stimulated its activity during the early development of zebrafish. Results demonstrated that PKC hyper-activation perturbs zebrafish development and induces a long-lasting head size deficit. The anatomical and cellular analysis revealed reduced neural precursor proliferation and newborn neuron formation. β-Catenin that is essential for brain growth is dramatically degraded. Stabilization of β-catenin by gsk3β inhibition partially restores the head size deficit. In addition, the neuropathogenic effect of developmental PKC hyper-activation was further supported by the alterations in the behavioral domain including motor abnormalities, heightened stress reactivity and impaired habituation learning. Taken together, by causally connecting early-life PKC hyper-activation to these neuropathological traits and the impaired neurogenesis, these results suggest that PKC could be a critical pathway in ASD pathogenesis.
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Cerebro-Cerebellar Functional Connectivity is Associated with Cerebellar Excitation–Inhibition Balance in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2018; 48:3460-3473. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3613-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Wang GF, Ye S, Gao L, Han Y, Guo X, Dong XP, Su YY, Zhang X. Two single-nucleotide polymorphisms of the RELN gene and symptom-based and developmental deficits among children and adolescents with autistic spectrum disorders in the Tianjin, China. Behav Brain Res 2018; 350:1-5. [PMID: 29753726 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2018.04.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Increasing evidence has revealed that genetic variants in Reelin (RELN) gene, especially single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), correlate with autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) risk; however, no consensus have been reached. This study aimed to provide additional evidence for the association between two SNPs of RELN (i.e., rs736707, rs2229864) and ASD risk, as well as the relationship between RELN gene and symptom-based and developmental deficits of ASD patients in Chinese Han children and adolescents. 157 ASD subjects and 256 typical development (TD) controls were genotyped by TaqMan® genotyping assay. ASD patients were assessed by Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), and Early Childhood Development Questionnaire (ECDQ). We found that SNP rs2229864 was associated with the genetic predisposition of ASD, whereas a negative association between SNP rs2229864 and symptom-based and developmental features was detected. In contrast, RELN rs736707 correlated with the sensory subscale of the ABC, the relating subscale of the ABC and the total score of ABC, although we did not detect a significant association between SNP rs736707 and ASD risk. Furthermore, a significant rs736707-rs2229864 haplotype was detected. Individuals with a CC haplotype were more likely to have ASD, but individuals with a CT haplotype had more chance be TD controls. Further studies using more samples and including more gene variants in RELN are warranted to confirm our results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geng-Fu Wang
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, No. 22 Qixiangtai Road, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Sheng Ye
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, No. 22 Qixiangtai Road, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Lei Gao
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, No. 22 Qixiangtai Road, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Yu Han
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, No. 22 Qixiangtai Road, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Xuan Guo
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, No. 22 Qixiangtai Road, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Xiao-Peng Dong
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, No. 22 Qixiangtai Road, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Su
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, No. 22 Qixiangtai Road, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, No. 22 Qixiangtai Road, Tianjin 300070, China.
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Bjørklund G, Kern JK, Urbina MA, Saad K, El-Houfey AA, Geier DA, Chirumbolo S, Geier MR, Mehta JA, Aaseth J. Cerebral hypoperfusion in autism spectrum disorder. Acta Neurobiol Exp (Wars) 2018. [PMID: 29694338 DOI: 10.21307/ane-2018-005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral hypoperfusion, or insufficient blood flow in the brain, occurs in many areas of the brain in patients diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Hypoperfusion was demonstrated in the brains of individuals with ASD when compared to normal healthy control brains either using positron emission tomography (PET) or single‑photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). The affected areas include, but are not limited to the: prefrontal, frontal, temporal, occipital, and parietal cortices; thalami; basal ganglia; cingulate cortex; caudate nucleus; the limbic system including the hippocampal area; putamen; substantia nigra; cerebellum; and associative cortices. Moreover, correlations between symptom scores and hypoperfusion in the brains of individuals diagnosed with an ASD were found indicating that the greater the autism symptom pathology, the more significant the cerebral hypoperfusion or vascular pathology in the brain. Evidence suggests that brain inflammation and vascular inflammation may explain a part of the hypoperfusion. There is also evidence of a lack of normal compensatory increase in blood flow when the subjects are challenged with a task. Some studies propose treatments that can address the hypoperfusion found among individuals diagnosed with an ASD, bringing symptom relief to some extent. This review will explore the evidence that indicates cerebral hypoperfusion in ASD, as well as the possible etiological aspects, complications, and treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Mo i Rana, Norway,
| | - Janet K Kern
- Institute of Chronic Illnesses, Inc., Silver Spring, MD, USA; CONEM US Autism Research Group, Allen, TX, USA
| | - Mauricio A Urbina
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Oceanográficas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Khaled Saad
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Amira A El-Houfey
- Department of Community Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Assiut University, Egypt
| | - David A Geier
- Institute of Chronic Illnesses, Inc., Silver Spring, MD, USA; CoMeD, Inc., Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Salvatore Chirumbolo
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mark R Geier
- Institute of Chronic Illnesses, Inc., Silver Spring, MD, USA; CoMeD, Inc., Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Jyutika A Mehta
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Texas Woman's University, Denton, Texas, USA
| | - Jan Aaseth
- Faculty of Public Health, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway; Department of Research, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Brumunddal, Norway
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The functions of Reelin in membrane trafficking and cytoskeletal dynamics: implications for neuronal migration, polarization and differentiation. Biochem J 2017; 474:3137-3165. [PMID: 28887403 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20160628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Revised: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Reelin is a large extracellular matrix protein with relevant roles in mammalian central nervous system including neurogenesis, neuronal polarization and migration during development; and synaptic plasticity with its implications in learning and memory, in the adult. Dysfunctions in reelin signaling are associated with brain lamination defects such as lissencephaly, but also with neuropsychiatric diseases like autism, schizophrenia and depression as well with neurodegeneration. Reelin signaling involves a core pathway that activates upon reelin binding to its receptors, particularly ApoER2 (apolipoprotein E receptor 2)/LRP8 (low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 8) and very low-density lipoprotein receptor, followed by Src/Fyn-mediated phosphorylation of the adaptor protein Dab1 (Disabled-1). Phosphorylated Dab1 (pDab1) is a hub in the signaling cascade, from which several other downstream pathways diverge reflecting the different roles of reelin. Many of these pathways affect the dynamics of the actin and microtubular cytoskeleton, as well as membrane trafficking through the regulation of the activity of small GTPases, including the Rho and Rap families and molecules involved in cell polarity. The complexity of reelin functions is reflected by the fact that, even now, the precise mode of action of this signaling cascade in vivo at the cellular and molecular levels remains unclear. This review addresses and discusses in detail the participation of reelin in the processes underlying neurogenesis, neuronal migration in the cerebral cortex and the hippocampus; and the polarization, differentiation and maturation processes that neurons experiment in order to be functional in the adult brain. In vivo and in vitro evidence is presented in order to facilitate a better understanding of this fascinating system.
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The role of apitoxin in alleviating propionic acid-induced neurobehavioral impairments in rat pups: The expression pattern of Reelin gene. Biomed Pharmacother 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
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Antonioli-Santos R, Lanzillotta-Mattos B, Hedin-Pereira C, Serfaty CA. The fine tuning of retinocollicular topography depends on reelin signaling during early postnatal development of the rat visual system. Neuroscience 2017; 357:264-272. [PMID: 28602919 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2017.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2017] [Revised: 05/27/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
During postnatal development, neural circuits are extremely dynamic and develop precise connection patterns that emerge as a result of the elimination of synaptic terminals, a process instructed by molecular cues and patterns of electrical activity. In the rodent visual system, this process begins during the first postnatal week and proceeds during the second and third postnatal weeks as spontaneous retinal activity and finally use-dependent fine tuning takes place. Reelin is a large extracellular matrix glycoprotein able to affect several steps of brain development, from neuronal migration to the maturation of dendritic spines and use-dependent synaptic development. In the present study, we investigated the role of reelin on the topographical refinement of primary sensory connections studying the development of retinal ganglion cell axon terminals in the rat superior colliculus. We found that reelin levels in the visual layers of the superior colliculus are the highest between the second and third postnatal weeks. Blocking reelin signaling with a neutralizing antibody (CR-50) from PND 7 to PND 14 induced a non-specific sprouting of ipsilateral retinocollicular axons outside their typical distribution of discrete patches of axon terminals. Also we found that reelin blockade resulted in reduced levels of phospho-GAP43, increased GluN1 and GluN2B-NMDA subunits and decreased levels of GAD65 content in the visual layers of the superior colliculus. The results suggest that reelin signaling is associated with the maturation of excitatory and inhibitory synaptic machinery influencing the development and fine tuning of topographically organized neural circuits during postnatal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Antonioli-Santos
- Federal Fluminense University, Biology Institute, Neurobiology Department, Laboratory of Neuroplasticity - Niteroi, PO Box: 100180, Brazil; Institute of Biomedical Research, Marcílio Dias Navy Hospital, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Bruna Lanzillotta-Mattos
- Federal Fluminense University, Biology Institute, Neurobiology Department, Laboratory of Neuroplasticity - Niteroi, PO Box: 100180, Brazil
| | - Cecília Hedin-Pereira
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular Neuroanatomy - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Claudio Alberto Serfaty
- Federal Fluminense University, Biology Institute, Neurobiology Department, Laboratory of Neuroplasticity - Niteroi, PO Box: 100180, Brazil.
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Hamza M, Halayem S, Mrad R, Bourgou S, Charfi F, Belhadj A. Implication de l’épigénétique dans les troubles du spectre autistique : revue de la littérature. Encephale 2017; 43:374-381. [DOI: 10.1016/j.encep.2016.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Revised: 07/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Lammert DB, Middleton FA, Pan J, Olson EC, Howell BW. The de novo autism spectrum disorder RELN R2290C mutation reduces Reelin secretion and increases protein disulfide isomerase expression. J Neurochem 2017; 142:89-102. [PMID: 28419454 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Revised: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Despite the recent identification of over 40 missense heterozygous Reelin gene (RELN) mutations in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), none of these has been functionally characterized. Reelin is an integral signaling ligand for proper brain development and post-natal synapse function - properties likely disrupted in ASD patients. We find that the R2290C mutation, which arose de novo in an affected ASD proband, and other analogous mutations in arginine-amino acid-arginine domains reduce protein secretion. Closer analysis of RELN R2290C heterozygous neurospheres reveals up-regulation of Protein Disulfide Isomerase A1, best known as an endoplasmic reticulum-chaperone protein, which has been linked to neuronal pathology. This effect is recapitulated in a heterozygous RELN mouse mutant that is characterized by defective Reelin secretion. These findings suggest that both a deficiency in Reelin signaling and pathologic impairment of Reelin secretion may contribute to ASD risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn B Lammert
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - Frank A Middleton
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - Jen Pan
- The Broad Institute, Stanley Center Neurobiology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Eric C Olson
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - Brian W Howell
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
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Whittaker DE, Riegman KL, Kasah S, Mohan C, Yu T, Sala BP, Hebaishi H, Caruso A, Marques AC, Michetti C, Smachetti MES, Shah A, Sabbioni M, Kulhanci O, Tee WW, Reinberg D, Scattoni ML, Volk H, McGonnell I, Wardle FC, Fernandes C, Basson MA. The chromatin remodeling factor CHD7 controls cerebellar development by regulating reelin expression. J Clin Invest 2017; 127:874-887. [PMID: 28165338 PMCID: PMC5330721 DOI: 10.1172/jci83408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying the neurodevelopmental deficits associated with CHARGE syndrome, which include cerebellar hypoplasia, developmental delay, coordination problems, and autistic features, have not been identified. CHARGE syndrome has been associated with mutations in the gene encoding the ATP-dependent chromatin remodeler CHD7. CHD7 is expressed in neural stem and progenitor cells, but its role in neurogenesis during brain development remains unknown. Here we have shown that deletion of Chd7 from cerebellar granule cell progenitors (GCps) results in reduced GCp proliferation, cerebellar hypoplasia, developmental delay, and motor deficits in mice. Genome-wide expression profiling revealed downregulated expression of the gene encoding the glycoprotein reelin (Reln) in Chd7-deficient GCps. Recessive RELN mutations have been associated with severe cerebellar hypoplasia in humans. We found molecular and genetic evidence that reductions in Reln expression contribute to GCp proliferative defects and cerebellar hypoplasia in GCp-specific Chd7 mouse mutants. Finally, we showed that CHD7 is necessary for maintaining an open, accessible chromatin state at the Reln locus. Taken together, this study shows that Reln gene expression is regulated by chromatin remodeling, identifies CHD7 as a previously unrecognized upstream regulator of Reln, and provides direct in vivo evidence that a mammalian CHD protein can control brain development by modulating chromatin accessibility in neuronal progenitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle E. Whittaker
- King’s College London, Department of Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology, Guy’s Hospital Tower Wing
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, and
| | - Kimberley L.H. Riegman
- King’s College London, Department of Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology, Guy’s Hospital Tower Wing
| | - Sahrunizam Kasah
- King’s College London, Department of Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology, Guy’s Hospital Tower Wing
| | - Conor Mohan
- King’s College London, Department of Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology, Guy’s Hospital Tower Wing
| | - Tian Yu
- King’s College London, Department of Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology, Guy’s Hospital Tower Wing
| | - Blanca Pijuan Sala
- King’s College London, Department of Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology, Guy’s Hospital Tower Wing
| | - Husam Hebaishi
- King’s College London, Randall Division, New Hunt’s House, London, United Kingdom
| | - Angela Caruso
- Neurotoxicology and Neuroendocrinology Section, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, and
- School of Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ana Claudia Marques
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Caterina Michetti
- Neurotoxicology and Neuroendocrinology Section, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, and
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer,” Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Apar Shah
- King’s College London, Department of Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology, Guy’s Hospital Tower Wing
| | - Mara Sabbioni
- Neurotoxicology and Neuroendocrinology Section, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, and
| | - Omer Kulhanci
- MRC Social, Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Wee-Wei Tee
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Biochemistry, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Danny Reinberg
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Biochemistry, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Maria Luisa Scattoni
- Neurotoxicology and Neuroendocrinology Section, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, and
| | - Holger Volk
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, and
| | - Imelda McGonnell
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, and
| | - Fiona C. Wardle
- King’s College London, Randall Division, New Hunt’s House, London, United Kingdom
| | - Cathy Fernandes
- MRC Social, Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- King’s College London, MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, New Hunt’s House, London, United Kingdom
| | - M. Albert Basson
- King’s College London, Department of Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology, Guy’s Hospital Tower Wing
- King’s College London, MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, New Hunt’s House, London, United Kingdom
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31
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Mintz M. Evolution in the Understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Historical Perspective. Indian J Pediatr 2017; 84:44-52. [PMID: 27053182 DOI: 10.1007/s12098-016-2080-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The study of the evolution in the diagnosis and treatment of autism is a lesson in the dangers of medical beliefs or doctrines that are not grounded in medical science. The early descriptions of autism suggested that it was the result of childhood psychoses or psychodynamic disturbances of parent-child relationships. This flawed conceptualization of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) gave way to advances in medical science, which have established ASD as a neurobiological disorder of early brain development. There are many genetic, epigenetic, metabolic, hormonal, immunological, neuroanatomical and neurophysiological etiologies of ASD, as well as an array of gastrointestinal and other systemic co-morbid disorders. Thus, ASD are a biologically heterogeneous population with extensive neurodiversity. Early identification and understanding of ASD is crucial; interventions at younger ages are associated with improved outcomes. The advent of understanding the biological sub-phenotypes of ASD, along with targeted medical therapies, coupled with a multimodal therapeutic approach that encompasses behavioral, educational, social, speech, occupational, creative arts, and other forms of therapies has created a new and exciting era for individuals with ASD and their families: "personalized" and "precision" medical care based upon underlying biological sub-phenotypes and clinical profiles. For many individuals and their families dealing with the scourge of autism, their long and frustrating diagnostic journey is beginning to come to an end, with a hope for improved outcomes and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Mintz
- The Center for Neurological and Neurodevelopmental Health, Voorhees, NJ, USA.
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32
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Selection of Suitable Reference Genes for Analysis of Salivary Transcriptome in Non-Syndromic Autistic Male Children. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17101711. [PMID: 27754318 PMCID: PMC5085743 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17101711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Childhood autism is a severe form of complex genetically heterogeneous and behaviorally defined set of neurodevelopmental diseases, collectively termed as autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Reverse transcriptase quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) is a highly sensitive technique for transcriptome analysis, and it has been frequently used in ASD gene expression studies. However, normalization to stably expressed reference gene(s) is necessary to validate any alteration reported at the mRNA level for target genes. The main goal of the present study was to find the most stable reference genes in the salivary transcriptome for RT-qPCR analysis in non-syndromic male childhood autism. Saliva samples were obtained from nine drug naïve non-syndromic male children with autism and also sex-, age-, and location-matched healthy controls using the RNA-stabilizer kit from DNA Genotek. A systematic two-phased measurement of whole saliva mRNA levels for eight common housekeeping genes (HKGs) was carried out by RT-qPCR, and the stability of expression for each candidate gene was analyzed using two specialized algorithms, geNorm and NormFinder, in parallel. Our analysis shows that while the frequently used HKG ACTB is not a suitable reference gene, the combination of GAPDH and YWHAZ could be recommended for normalization of RT-qPCR analysis of salivary transcriptome in non-syndromic autistic male children.
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33
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Lammert DB, Howell BW. RELN Mutations in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Cell Neurosci 2016; 10:84. [PMID: 27064498 PMCID: PMC4814460 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2016.00084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
RELN encodes a large, secreted glycoprotein integral to proper neuronal positioning during development and regulation of synaptic function postnatally. Rare, homozygous, null mutations lead to lissencephaly with cerebellar hypoplasia (LCH), accompanied by developmental delay and epilepsy. Until recently, little was known about the frequency or consequences of heterozygous mutations. Several lines of evidence from multiple studies now implicate heterozygous mutations in RELN in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). RELN maps to the AUTS1 locus on 7q22, and at this time over 40 distinct mutations have been identified that would alter the protein sequence, four of which are de novo. The RELN mutations that are most clearly consequential are those that are predicted to inactivate the signaling function of the encoded protein and those that fall in a highly conserved RXR motif found at the core of the 16 Reelin subrepeats. Despite the growing evidence of RELN dysfunction in ASD, it appears that these mutations in isolation are insufficient and that secondary genetic or environmental factors are likely required for a diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn B Lammert
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical School Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Brian W Howell
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical School Syracuse, NY, USA
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34
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Caruncho HJ, Brymer K, Romay-Tallón R, Mitchell MA, Rivera-Baltanás T, Botterill J, Olivares JM, Kalynchuk LE. Reelin-Related Disturbances in Depression: Implications for Translational Studies. Front Cell Neurosci 2016; 10:48. [PMID: 26941609 PMCID: PMC4766281 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2016.00048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The finding that reelin expression is significantly decreased in mood and psychotic disorders, together with evidence that reelin can regulate key aspects of hippocampal plasticity in the adult brain, brought our research group and others to study the possible role of reelin in the pathogenesis of depression. This review describes recent progress on this topic using an animal model of depression that makes use of repeated corticosterone (CORT) injections. This methodology produces depression-like symptoms in both rats and mice that are reversed by antidepressant treatment. We have reported that CORT causes a decrease in the number of reelin-immunopositive cells in the dentate gyrus subgranular zone (SGZ), where adult hippocampal neurogenesis takes place; that down-regulation of the number of reelin-positive cells closely parallels the development of a depression-like phenotype during repeated CORT treatment; that reelin downregulation alters the co-expression of reelin with neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS); that deficits in reelin might also create imbalances in glutamatergic and GABAergic circuits within the hippocampus and other limbic structures; and that co-treatment with antidepressant drugs prevents both reelin deficits and the development of a depression-like phenotype. We also observed alterations in the pattern of membrane protein clustering in peripheral lymphocytes in animals with low levels of reelin. Importantly, we found parallel changes in membrane protein clustering in depression patients, which differentiated two subpopulations of naïve depression patients that showed a different therapeutic response to antidepressant treatment. Here, we review these findings and develop the hypothesis that restoring reelin-related function could represent a novel approach for antidepressant therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hector J Caruncho
- Neuroscience Cluster, College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Kyle Brymer
- Department of Psychology, University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | | | - Milann A Mitchell
- Department of Psychology, University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Tania Rivera-Baltanás
- Department of Psychiatry, Alvaro Cunqueiro Hospital, Biomedical Research Institute of Vigo Galicia, Spain
| | - Justin Botterill
- Department of Psychology, University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Jose M Olivares
- Department of Psychiatry, Alvaro Cunqueiro Hospital, Biomedical Research Institute of Vigo Galicia, Spain
| | - Lisa E Kalynchuk
- Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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35
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Young AMH, Chakrabarti B, Roberts D, Lai MC, Suckling J, Baron-Cohen S. From molecules to neural morphology: understanding neuroinflammation in autism spectrum condition. Mol Autism 2016; 7:9. [PMID: 26793298 PMCID: PMC4719563 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-016-0068-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2014] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence points toward a critical role for early (prenatal) atypical neurodevelopmental processes in the aetiology of autism spectrum condition (ASC). One such process that could impact early neural development is inflammation. We review the evidence for atypical expression of molecular markers in the amniotic fluid, serum, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and the brain parenchyma that suggest a role for inflammation in the emergence of ASC. This is complemented with a number of neuroimaging and neuropathological studies describing microglial activation. Implications for treatment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam M H Young
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, UK ; School of Clinical Medicine, Addenbrookes Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Bhismadev Chakrabarti
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, UK ; Centre for Integrative Neuroscience and Neurodynamics, School of Psychology and Clinical Language Science, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - David Roberts
- School of Clinical Medicine, Addenbrookes Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Meng-Chuan Lai
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, UK ; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada ; Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - John Suckling
- Brain Mapping Unit, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK ; Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Simon Baron-Cohen
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, UK ; CLASS Clinic, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
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36
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In Sickness and in Health: Perineuronal Nets and Synaptic Plasticity in Psychiatric Disorders. Neural Plast 2015; 2016:9847696. [PMID: 26839720 PMCID: PMC4709762 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9847696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapidly emerging evidence implicates perineuronal nets (PNNs) and extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules that compose or interact with PNNs, in the pathophysiology of several psychiatric disorders. Studies on schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders, Alzheimer's disease, and epilepsy point to the involvement of ECM molecules such as chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans, Reelin, and matrix metalloproteases, as well as their cell surface receptors. In many of these disorders, PNN abnormalities have also been reported. In the context of the “quadripartite” synapse concept, that is, the functional unit composed of the pre- and postsynaptic terminals, glial processes, and ECM, and of the role that PNNs and ECM molecules play in regulating synaptic functions and plasticity, these findings resonate with one of the most well-replicated aspects of the pathology of psychiatric disorders, that is, synaptic abnormalities. Here we review the evidence for PNN/ECM-related pathology in these disorders, with particular emphasis on schizophrenia, and discuss the hypothesis that such pathology may significantly contribute to synaptic dysfunction.
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37
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Baldarçara L, Currie S, Hadjivassiliou M, Hoggard N, Jack A, Jackowski AP, Mascalchi M, Parazzini C, Reetz K, Righini A, Schulz JB, Vella A, Webb SJ, Habas C. Consensus paper: radiological biomarkers of cerebellar diseases. THE CEREBELLUM 2015; 14:175-96. [PMID: 25382714 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-014-0610-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hereditary and sporadic cerebellar ataxias represent a vast and still growing group of diseases whose diagnosis and differentiation cannot only rely on clinical evaluation. Brain imaging including magnetic resonance (MR) and nuclear medicine techniques allows for characterization of structural and functional abnormalities underlying symptomatic ataxias. These methods thus constitute a potential source of radiological biomarkers, which could be used to identify these diseases and differentiate subgroups of them, and to assess their severity and their evolution. Such biomarkers mainly comprise qualitative and quantitative data obtained from MR including proton spectroscopy, diffusion imaging, tractography, voxel-based morphometry, functional imaging during task execution or in a resting state, and from SPETC and PET with several radiotracers. In the current article, we aim to illustrate briefly some applications of these neuroimaging tools to evaluation of cerebellar disorders such as inherited cerebellar ataxia, fetal developmental malformations, and immune-mediated cerebellar diseases and of neurodegenerative or early-developing diseases, such as dementia and autism in which cerebellar involvement is an emerging feature. Although these radiological biomarkers appear promising and helpful to better understand ataxia-related anatomical and physiological impairments, to date, very few of them have turned out to be specific for a given ataxia with atrophy of the cerebellar system being the main and the most usual alteration being observed. Consequently, much remains to be done to establish sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility of available MR and nuclear medicine features as diagnostic, progression and surrogate biomarkers in clinical routine.
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38
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Anatomical likelihood estimation meta-analysis of grey and white matter anomalies in autism spectrum disorders. NEUROIMAGE-CLINICAL 2014; 7:525-36. [PMID: 25844306 PMCID: PMC4375647 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2014.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2014] [Revised: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 11/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are characterized by impairments in social communication and restrictive, repetitive behaviors. While behavioral symptoms are well-documented, investigations into the neurobiological underpinnings of ASD have not resulted in firm biomarkers. Variability in findings across structural neuroimaging studies has contributed to difficulty in reliably characterizing the brain morphology of individuals with ASD. These inconsistencies may also arise from the heterogeneity of ASD, and wider age-range of participants included in MRI studies and in previous meta-analyses. To address this, the current study used coordinate-based anatomical likelihood estimation (ALE) analysis of 21 voxel-based morphometry (VBM) studies examining high-functioning individuals with ASD, resulting in a meta-analysis of 1055 participants (506 ASD, and 549 typically developing individuals). Results consisted of grey, white, and global differences in cortical matter between the groups. Modeled anatomical maps consisting of concentration, thickness, and volume metrics of grey and white matter revealed clusters suggesting age-related decreases in grey and white matter in parietal and inferior temporal regions of the brain in ASD, and age-related increases in grey matter in frontal and anterior-temporal regions. White matter alterations included fiber tracts thought to play key roles in information processing and sensory integration. Many current theories of pathobiology ASD suggest that the brains of individuals with ASD may have less-functional long-range (anterior-to-posterior) connections. Our findings of decreased cortical matter in parietal-temporal and occipital regions, and thickening in frontal cortices in older adults with ASD may entail altered cortical anatomy, and neurodevelopmental adaptations.
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Biamonte F, Latini L, Giorgi FS, Zingariello M, Marino R, De Luca R, D'Ilio S, Majorani C, Petrucci F, Violante N, Senofonte O, Molinari M, Keller F. Associations among exposure to methylmercury, reduced Reelin expression, and gender in the cerebellum of developing mice. Neurotoxicology 2014; 45:67-80. [PMID: 25305366 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2014.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2014] [Revised: 09/24/2014] [Accepted: 09/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Genetic risk factors acting during pregnancy or early after birth have been proposed to account for the exponential increase of autism diagnoses in the past 20 years. In particular, a potential link with exposure to environmental mercury has been suggested. Male sex constitutes a second risk factor for autism. A third potential genetic risk factor is decreased Reelin expression. Male heterozygous reeler (rl(+/-)) mice show an autism-like phenotype, including Purkinje cells (PCs) loss and behavioral rigidity. We evaluated the complex interactions between 3 risk factors, i.e. genetic status, sex, and exposure to methylmercury (MeHg), in rl(+/-) mice. Mice were exposed to MeHg during the prenatal and early postnatal period, either at a subtoxic dose (2 ppm in Dams' drinking water), or at a toxic dose (6 ppm Dams' drinking water), based on observations in other rodent species and mice strains. We show that: (a) 2 ppm MeHg does not cause PCs loss in the different animal groups, and does not enhance PCs loss in rl(+/-) males; consistent with a lack of overt neurotoxicity, 2 ppm MeHg per se does not cause behavioral alterations (separation-induced ultrasonic calls in newborns, or sociability and social preference in adults); (b) in stark contrast, 6 ppm MeHg causes a dramatic reduction of PCs number in all groups, irrespective of genotype and sex. Cytochrome C release from mitochondria of PCs is enhanced in 6 ppm MeHg-exposed groups, with a concomitant increase of μ-calpain active subunit. At the behavioral level, 6 ppm MeHg exposure strongly increases ultrasonic vocalizations in all animal groups. Notably, 6 ppm MeHg significantly decreases sociability in rl(+/-) male mice, while the 2 ppm group does not show such as decrease. At a subtoxic dose, MeHg does not enhance the autism-like phenotype of male rl(+/-) mice. At the higher MeHg dose, the scenario is more complex, with some "autism-like" features (loss of sociability, preference for sameness) being evidently affected only in rl(+/-) males, while other neuropathological and behavioral parameters being altered in all groups, independently from genotype and sex. Mitochondrial abnormalities appear to play a crucial role in the observed effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Biamonte
- Laboratory of Developmental Neuroscience and Neural Plasticity, University Campus Biomedico, Via A. del Portillo 21, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Latini
- Santa Lucia Foundation, I.R.C.C.S., Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Filippo Sean Giorgi
- Section of Neurology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Ramona Marino
- Laboratory of Developmental Neuroscience and Neural Plasticity, University Campus Biomedico, Via A. del Portillo 21, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto De Luca
- Laboratory of Developmental Neuroscience and Neural Plasticity, University Campus Biomedico, Via A. del Portillo 21, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Sonia D'Ilio
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Centro Nazionale Sostanze Chimiche, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Costanza Majorani
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Dipartimento di Ambiente e Prevenzione Primaria, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Petrucci
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Dipartimento di Ambiente e Prevenzione Primaria, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Violante
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Dipartimento di Ambiente e Prevenzione Primaria, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Oreste Senofonte
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Dipartimento di Ambiente e Prevenzione Primaria, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Molinari
- Santa Lucia Foundation, I.R.C.C.S., Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Rome, Italy.
| | - Flavio Keller
- Laboratory of Developmental Neuroscience and Neural Plasticity, University Campus Biomedico, Via A. del Portillo 21, 00198 Rome, Italy.
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Jack A, Morris JP. Neocerebellar contributions to social perception in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. Dev Cogn Neurosci 2014; 10:77-92. [PMID: 25170555 PMCID: PMC6987881 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2014.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2013] [Revised: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous work shows cerebellar Crus I supports imitation via interaction with pSTS. Teens with (ASD) and without (TD) autism completed an imitation task in the scanner. Teens with ASD recruited Crus I less strongly during imitation than TD teens. PPI strength between pSTS and Crus I predicted mentalizing in teens with ASD.
Posterior superior temporal sulcus (pSTS) is specialized for interpreting perceived human actions, and disruptions to its function occur in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Here we consider the role of Crus I of neocerebellum in supporting pSTS function. Research has associated Crus I activity with imitation and biological motion perception, and neocerebellum is theorized to coordinate activity among cerebral sites more generally. Moreover, cerebellar abnormalities have been associated with ASD. We hypothesized that disordered Crus I–pSTS interactions could predict social deficits in ASD. 15 high functioning adolescents with ASD and 15 same-age comparison youth participated in an fMRI imitation paradigm; ratings of mentalizing ability were collected via parent report. We predicted that stronger Crus I–pSTS interactions would be associated with better mentalizing ability. Consistent with these hypotheses, stronger psychophysiological interactions between Crus I and right pSTS were associated with greater mentalizing ability among adolescents with ASD. Whole-brain analyses also indicated that typically developing youth recruited right inferior frontal gyrus, left pSTS, medial occipital regions, and precuneus more strongly during imitation than did youth with ASD. Overall, these results indicate that variability in neocerebellar interactions with key cortical social brain sites may help explain individual differences in social perceptual outcomes in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Jack
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States.
| | - James P Morris
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
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Camacho J, Ejaz E, Ariza J, Noctor SC, Martínez-Cerdeño V. RELN-expressing neuron density in layer I of the superior temporal lobe is similar in human brains with autism and in age-matched controls. Neurosci Lett 2014; 579:163-7. [PMID: 25067827 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2014.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Revised: 07/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Reelin protein (RELN) level is reduced in the cerebral cortex and cerebellum of subjects with autism. RELN is synthesized and secreted by a subpopulation of neurons in the developing cerebral cortex termed Cajal-Retzius (CR) cells. These cells are abundant in the marginal zone during cortical development, many die after development is complete, but a small population persists into adulthood. In adult brains, RELN is secreted by the surviving CR cells, by a subset of GABAergic interneurons in layer I, and by pyramidal cells and GABAergic interneurons in deeper cortical layers. It is widely believed that decreased RELN in layer I of the cerebral cortex of subjects with autism may result from a decrease in the density of RELN expressing neurons in layer I; however, this hypothesis has not been tested. We examined RELN expression in layer I of the adult human cortex and found that 70% of cells express RELN in both control and autistic subjects. We quantified the density of neurons in layer I of the superior temporal cortex of subjects with autism and age-matched control subjects. Our data show that there is no change in the density of neurons in layer I of the cortex of subjects with autism, and therefore suggest that reduced RELN expression in the cerebral cortex of subjects with autism is not a consequence of decreased numbers of RELN-expressing neurons in layer I. Instead reduced RELN may result from abnormal RELN processing, or a decrease in the number of other RELN-expressing neuronal cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Camacho
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospital for Children of Northern California, 2425 Stockton BLVD, Sacramento, CA 958172, United States
| | - Ehsan Ejaz
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospital for Children of Northern California, 2425 Stockton BLVD, Sacramento, CA 958172, United States
| | - Jeanelle Ariza
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospital for Children of Northern California, 2425 Stockton BLVD, Sacramento, CA 958172, United States
| | - Stephen C Noctor
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California-Davis, United States; MIND Institute, UC Davis, United States
| | - Verónica Martínez-Cerdeño
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Hospital for Children of Northern California, 2425 Stockton BLVD, Sacramento, CA 958172, United States; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine School of Medicine, University of California-Davis, United States; MIND Institute, UC Davis, United States.
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Casanova MF. Autism as a sequence: from heterochronic germinal cell divisions to abnormalities of cell migration and cortical dysplasias. Med Hypotheses 2014; 83:32-8. [PMID: 24780284 PMCID: PMC4070182 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2014.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2014] [Revised: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 04/06/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The considerable heterogeneity in the number and severity of symptoms observed in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has been regarded as an obstacle to any future research. Some authors believe that clinical heterogeneity results from the complex interplay of the many genetic and environmental factors that themselves define a condition as multifactorial. However, it is important to note that neuropathological findings in both idiopathic and syndromic autism suggests a single pathophysiological mechanism acting during brain development: the heterochronic division of germinal cells and subsequent migrational abnormalities of daughter cells to their target fields. Multiple exogenous (e.g., viruses, drugs) and endogenous (e.g., genetic mutations) factors are known to disrupt the division of germinal cells and provide for an autism phenotype. The variety of endogenous and exogenous factors, their timing of action during brain development, and the genetic susceptibility of affected individuals (a Triple Hit hypothesis) may all account for the clinical heterogeneity of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel F Casanova
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Louisville, 500 South Preston Street, Building A, Room 217, Louisville, KY 40202, United States.
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Wei H, Alberts I, Li X. The apoptotic perspective of autism. Int J Dev Neurosci 2014; 36:13-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2014.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2014] [Revised: 04/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hongen Wei
- Central LaboratoryShanxi Provincial People's HospitalAffiliate of Shanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanChina
| | - Ian Alberts
- Department of Natural SciencesLaGuardia CC, CUNYNew YorkNY11101USA
| | - Xiaohong Li
- Department of NeurochemistryNY State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental DisabilitiesNew YorkNY10314USA
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Riva D, Annunziata S, Contarino V, Erbetta A, Aquino D, Bulgheroni S. Gray matter reduction in the vermis and CRUS-II is associated with social and interaction deficits in low-functioning children with autistic spectrum disorders: a VBM-DARTEL Study. THE CEREBELLUM 2014; 12:676-85. [PMID: 23572290 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-013-0469-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Voxel-based morphometry (VBM) studies have reported abnormalities in brain regions involved in functions that are commonly impaired in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). However, little is known about brain structure anomalies in low-functioning (LF) young children with ASD. A VBM analysis was carried out to assess brain regions involved in ASD LF children, and a multiple regression analysis was used to examine the relationship between regional volume changes and autism symptom measures. Twenty-six LF ASD children (2-10 years) were compared with 21 controls. A VBM-Diffeomorphic Anatomical Registration analysis using Exponentiated Lie algebra (DARTEL) was used to evaluate gray matter (GM) and white matter alterations, covaried with Intelligence Quotient, age, and total brain volume. The resulting altered regions were correlated with Autism Diagnostic Interview (ADI)-Revised and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS)-Generic scores. GM bilateral reduction was noted in the cerebellum (Crus II and vermis) and in the hippocampi in ASD group. GM reduction was also detected in the inferior and superior frontal gyri, in the occipital medial and superior gyri, and in the inferior temporal gyrus of the left cerebral hemisphere. In the right hemisphere, GM reduction was found in the post-central cortex and in the occipital inferior gyrus. Multiple regression analysis showed a correlation between alterations in GM volume in the cerebellum (Crus II and vermis) and ADI-communication and ADOS-total (communication and interaction) scores. These findings seem to confirm that the cerebellum is involved in integrating and regulating emotional and cognitive functions which are impaired in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Riva
- Developmental Neurology Division, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C.Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133, Milan, Italy.
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Wang Z, Hong Y, Zou L, Zhong R, Zhu B, Shen N, Chen W, Lou J, Ke J, Zhang T, Wang W, Miao X. Reelin gene variants and risk of autism spectrum disorders: an integrated meta-analysis. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2014; 165B:192-200. [PMID: 24453138 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.32222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2013] [Accepted: 12/31/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a severe neurological disorder with a high degree of heritability. Reelin gene (RELN), which plays a crucial role in the migration and positioning of neurons during brain development, has been strongly posed as a candidate gene for ASD. Genetic variants in RELN have been investigated as risk factors of ASD in numerous epidemiologic studies but with inconclusive results. To clearly discern the effects of RELN variants on ASD, the authors conducted a meta-analysis integrating case-control and transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) studies published through 2001 to 2013. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals were used to estimate the associations between three RELN variants (rs736707, rs362691, and GGC repeat variant) and ASD. In overall meta-analysis, the summary ORs for rs736707, rs362691, and GGC repeat variant were 1.11 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.80-1.54], 0.69 (95% CI: 0.56-0.86), and 1.09 (95% CI: 0.97-1.23), respectively. Besides, positive result was also obtained in subgroup of broadly-defined ASD for rs362691 (OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.52-0.86). Our meta-analysis revealed that the RELN rs362691, rather than rs736707 or GGC repeat variant, might contribute significantly to ASD risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenling Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Rossignol DA, Genuis SJ, Frye RE. Environmental toxicants and autism spectrum disorders: a systematic review. Transl Psychiatry 2014; 4:e360. [PMID: 24518398 PMCID: PMC3944636 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2014.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 292] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2013] [Revised: 12/15/2013] [Accepted: 01/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the involvement of genetic abnormalities in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is well-accepted, recent studies point to an equal contribution by environmental factors, particularly environmental toxicants. However, these toxicant-related studies in ASD have not been systematically reviewed to date. Therefore, we compiled publications investigating potential associations between environmental toxicants and ASD and arranged these publications into the following three categories: (a) studies examining estimated toxicant exposures in the environment during the preconceptional, gestational and early childhood periods; (b) studies investigating biomarkers of toxicants; and (c) studies examining potential genetic susceptibilities to toxicants. A literature search of nine electronic scientific databases through November 2013 was performed. In the first category examining ASD risk and estimated toxicant exposures in the environment, the majority of studies (34/37; 92%) reported an association. Most of these studies were retrospective case-control, ecological or prospective cohort studies, although a few had weaker study designs (for example, case reports or series). Toxicants implicated in ASD included pesticides, phthalates, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), solvents, toxic waste sites, air pollutants and heavy metals, with the strongest evidence found for air pollutants and pesticides. Gestational exposure to methylmercury (through fish exposure, one study) and childhood exposure to pollutants in water supplies (two studies) were not found to be associated with ASD risk. In the second category of studies investigating biomarkers of toxicants and ASD, a large number was dedicated to examining heavy metals. Such studies demonstrated mixed findings, with only 19 of 40 (47%) case-control studies reporting higher concentrations of heavy metals in blood, urine, hair, brain or teeth of children with ASD compared with controls. Other biomarker studies reported that solvent, phthalate and pesticide levels were associated with ASD, whereas PCB studies were mixed. Seven studies reported a relationship between autism severity and heavy metal biomarkers, suggesting evidence of a dose-effect relationship. Overall, the evidence linking biomarkers of toxicants with ASD (the second category) was weaker compared with the evidence associating estimated exposures to toxicants in the environment and ASD risk (the first category) because many of the biomarker studies contained small sample sizes and the relationships between biomarkers and ASD were inconsistent across studies. Regarding the third category of studies investigating potential genetic susceptibilities to toxicants, 10 unique studies examined polymorphisms in genes associated with increased susceptibilities to toxicants, with 8 studies reporting that such polymorphisms were more common in ASD individuals (or their mothers, 1 study) compared with controls (one study examined multiple polymorphisms). Genes implicated in these studies included paraoxonase (PON1, three of five studies), glutathione S-transferase (GSTM1 and GSTP1, three of four studies), δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (one study), SLC11A3 (one study) and the metal regulatory transcription factor 1 (one of two studies). Notably, many of the reviewed studies had significant limitations, including lack of replication, limited sample sizes, retrospective design, recall and publication biases, inadequate matching of cases and controls, and the use of nonstandard tools to diagnose ASD. The findings of this review suggest that the etiology of ASD may involve, at least in a subset of children, complex interactions between genetic factors and certain environmental toxicants that may act synergistically or in parallel during critical periods of neurodevelopment, in a manner that increases the likelihood of developing ASD. Because of the limitations of many of the reviewed studies, additional high-quality epidemiological studies concerning environmental toxicants and ASD are warranted to confirm and clarify many of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A Rossignol
- Family Medicine, Rossignol Medical Center, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - S J Genuis
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - R E Frye
- Arkansas Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
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Michetti C, Romano E, Altabella L, Caruso A, Castelluccio P, Bedse G, Gaetani S, Canese R, Laviola G, Scattoni ML. Mapping pathological phenotypes in reelin mutant mice. Front Pediatr 2014; 2:95. [PMID: 25237666 PMCID: PMC4154529 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2014.00095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are neurodevelopmental disorders with multifactorial origin characterized by social communication deficits and the presence of repetitive behaviors/interests. Several studies showed an association between the reelin gene mutation and increased risk of ASD and a reduced reelin expression in some brain regions of ASD subjects, suggesting a role for reelin deficiency in ASD etiology. Reelin is a large extracellular matrix glycoprotein playing important roles during development of the central nervous system. To deeply investigate the role of reelin dysfunction as vulnerability factor in ASD, we assessed the behavioral, neurochemical, and brain morphological features of reeler male mice. We recently reported a genotype-dependent deviation in the ultrasonic vocal repertoire and a general delay in motor development of reeler pups. We now report that adult male heterozygous (Het) reeler mice did not show social behavior and communication deficits during male-female social interactions. Wildtype and Het mice showed a typical light/dark locomotor activity profile, with a peak during the central interval of the dark phase. However, when faced with a mild stressful stimulus (a saline injection) only Het mice showed an over response to stress. In addition to the behavioral studies, we conducted high performance liquid chromatography and magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy to investigate whether reelin mutation influences brain monoamine and metabolites levels in regions involved in ASD. Low levels of dopamine in cortex and high levels of glutamate and taurine in hippocampus were detected in Het mice, in line with clinical data collected on ASD children. Altogether, our data detected subtle but relevant neurochemical abnormalities in reeler mice supporting this mutant line, particularly male subjects, as a valid experimental model to estimate the contribution played by reelin deficiency in the global ASD neurobehavioral phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Michetti
- Neurotoxicology and Neuroendocrinology Section, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità , Rome , Italy ; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome , Rome , Italy
| | - Emilia Romano
- Behavioural Neuroscience Section, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità , Rome , Italy ; Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Istituto Di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico , Rome , Italy
| | - Luisa Altabella
- Molecular and Cellular Imaging Section, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità , Rome , Italy
| | - Angela Caruso
- Neurotoxicology and Neuroendocrinology Section, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità , Rome , Italy ; Department of Psychology, School of Behavioural Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome , Rome , Italy
| | - Paolo Castelluccio
- Neurotoxicology and Neuroendocrinology Section, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità , Rome , Italy
| | - Gaurav Bedse
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome , Rome , Italy
| | - Silvana Gaetani
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome , Rome , Italy
| | - Rossella Canese
- Molecular and Cellular Imaging Section, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità , Rome , Italy
| | - Giovanni Laviola
- Behavioural Neuroscience Section, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità , Rome , Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Scattoni
- Neurotoxicology and Neuroendocrinology Section, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità , Rome , Italy
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Zhubi A, Chen Y, Dong E, Cook EH, Guidotti A, Grayson DR. Increased binding of MeCP2 to the GAD1 and RELN promoters may be mediated by an enrichment of 5-hmC in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) cerebellum. Transl Psychiatry 2014; 4:e349. [PMID: 24448211 PMCID: PMC3905233 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2013.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2013] [Revised: 11/01/2013] [Accepted: 11/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms related to altered social interactions/communication and restricted and repetitive behaviors. In addition to genetic risk, epigenetic mechanisms (which include DNA methylation/demethylation) are thought to be important in the etiopathogenesis of ASD. We studied epigenetic mechanisms underlying the transcriptional regulation of candidate genes in cerebella of ASD patients, including the binding of MeCP2 (methyl CpG binding protein-2) to the glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 (GAD1), glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD2), and Reelin (RELN) promoters and gene bodies. Moreover, we performed methyl DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP) and hydroxymethyl DNA immunoprecipitation (hMeDIP) to measure total 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC) in the same regions of these genes. The enrichment of 5-hmC and decrease in 5-mC at the GAD1 or RELN promoters detected by 5-hmC and 5-mC antibodies was confirmed by Tet-assisted bisulfite (TAB) pyrosequencing. The results showed a marked and significant increase in MeCP2 binding to the promoter regions of GAD1 and RELN, but not to the corresponding gene body regions in cerebellar cortex of ASD patients. Moreover, we detected a significant increase in TET1 expression and an enrichment in the level of 5-hmC, but not 5-mC, at the promoters of GAD1 and RELN in ASD when compared with CON. Moreover, there was increased TET1 binding to these promoter regions. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that an increase of 5-hmC (relative to 5-mC) at specific gene domains enhances the binding of MeCP2 to 5-hmC and reduces expression of the corresponding target genes in ASD cerebella.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zhubi
- The Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Y Chen
- The Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - E Dong
- The Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - E H Cook
- Institute for Juvenile Research, Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - A Guidotti
- The Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - D R Grayson
- The Psychiatric Institute, Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA,Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1601W Taylor, Chicago, IL 60612-4310, USA. E-mail:
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Adachi K, Murai Y, Teramoto A. Infantile cerebellar pilocytic astrocytoma with autism spectrum disorder. J NIPPON MED SCH 2013; 79:228-31. [PMID: 22791126 DOI: 10.1272/jnms.79.228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The etiology of autism remains unclear, but relationships to cerebellar factors have been reported. We report 2 cases of infantile cerebellar pilocytic astrocytoma in children with autism spectrum disorder. Cerebellar tumors may be related to the pathogenesis of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Adachi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan.
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50
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Epigenetics and autism. AUTISM RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2013; 2013:826156. [PMID: 24151554 PMCID: PMC3787640 DOI: 10.1155/2013/826156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2013] [Revised: 07/17/2013] [Accepted: 08/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This review identifies mechanisms for altering DNA-histone interactions of cell chromatin to upregulate or downregulate gene expression that could serve as epigenetic targets for therapeutic interventions in autism. DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) can phosphorylate histone H3 at T6. Aided by protein kinase C β 1, the DNMT lysine-specific demethylase-1 prevents demethylation of H3 at K4. During androgen-receptor-(AR-) dependent gene activation, this sequence may produce AR-dependent gene overactivation which may partly explain the male predominance of autism. AR-dependent gene overactivation in conjunction with a DNMT mechanism for methylating oxytocin receptors could produce high arousal inputs to the amygdala resulting in aberrant socialization, a prime characteristic of autism. Dysregulation of histone methyltransferases and histone deacetylases (HDACs) associated with low activity of methyl CpG binding protein-2 at cytosine-guanine sites in genes may reduce the capacity for condensing chromatin and silencing genes in frontal cortex, a site characterized by decreased cortical interconnectivity in autistic subjects. HDAC1 inhibition can overactivate mRNA transcription, a putative mechanism for the increased number of cerebral cortical columns and local frontal cortex hyperactivity in autistic individuals. These epigenetic mechanisms underlying male predominance, aberrant social interaction, and low functioning frontal cortex may be novel targets for autism prevention and treatment strategies.
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