1
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Hao P, Yang Z, So KF, Li X. A core scientific problem in the treatment of central nervous system diseases: newborn neurons. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:2588-2601. [PMID: 38595278 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
It has long been asserted that failure to recover from central nervous system diseases is due to the system's intricate structure and the regenerative incapacity of adult neurons. Yet over recent decades, numerous studies have established that endogenous neurogenesis occurs in the adult central nervous system, including humans'. This has challenged the long-held scientific consensus that the number of adult neurons remains constant, and that new central nervous system neurons cannot be created or renewed. Herein, we present a comprehensive overview of the alterations and regulatory mechanisms of endogenous neurogenesis following central nervous system injury, and describe novel treatment strategies that target endogenous neurogenesis and newborn neurons in the treatment of central nervous system injury. Central nervous system injury frequently results in alterations of endogenous neurogenesis, encompassing the activation, proliferation, ectopic migration, differentiation, and functional integration of endogenous neural stem cells. Because of the unfavorable local microenvironment, most activated neural stem cells differentiate into glial cells rather than neurons. Consequently, the injury-induced endogenous neurogenesis response is inadequate for repairing impaired neural function. Scientists have attempted to enhance endogenous neurogenesis using various strategies, including using neurotrophic factors, bioactive materials, and cell reprogramming techniques. Used alone or in combination, these therapeutic strategies can promote targeted migration of neural stem cells to an injured area, ensure their survival and differentiation into mature functional neurons, and facilitate their integration into the neural circuit. Thus can integration replenish lost neurons after central nervous system injury, by improving the local microenvironment. By regulating each phase of endogenous neurogenesis, endogenous neural stem cells can be harnessed to promote effective regeneration of newborn neurons. This offers a novel approach for treating central nervous system injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Hao
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaoyang Yang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- Guangdong-HongKong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Ophthalmology and State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administration Region, China
- Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiaoguang Li
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
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2
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González-Llera L, Santos-Durán GN, Sobrido-Cameán D, Núñez-González C, Pérez-Fernández J, Barreiro-Iglesias A. Spontaneous regeneration of cholecystokinergic reticulospinal axons after a complete spinal cord injury in sea lampreys. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:347-357. [PMID: 38205155 PMCID: PMC10776906 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In contrast to humans, lampreys spontaneously recover their swimming capacity after a complete spinal cord injury (SCI). This recovery process involves the regeneration of descending axons. Spontaneous axon regeneration in lampreys has been mainly studied in giant descending neurons. However, the regeneration of neurochemically distinct descending neuronal populations with small-caliber axons, as those found in mammals, has been less studied. Cholecystokinin (CCK) is a regulatory neuropeptide found in the brain and spinal cord that modulates several processes such as satiety, or locomotion. CCK shows high evolutionary conservation and is present in all vertebrate species. Work in lampreys has shown that all CCKergic spinal cord axons originate in a single neuronal population located in the caudal rhombencephalon. Here, we investigate the spontaneous regeneration of CCKergic descending axons in larval lampreys following a complete SCI. Using anti-CCK-8 immunofluorescence, confocal microscopy and lightning adaptive deconvolution, we demonstrate the partial regeneration of CCKergic axons (81% of the number of axonal profiles seen in controls) 10 weeks after the injury. Our data also revealed a preference for regeneration of CCKergic axons in lateral spinal cord regions. Regenerated CCKergic axons exhibit colocalization with synaptic vesicle marker SV2, indicative of functional synaptic connections. We also extracted swimming dynamics in injured animals by using DeepLabCut. Interestingly, the degree of CCKergic reinnervation correlated with improved swimming performance in injured animals, suggesting a potential role in locomotor recovery. These findings open avenues for further exploration into the role of specific neuropeptidergic systems in post-SCI spinal locomotor networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura González-Llera
- Department of Functional Biology, CIBUS, Faculty of Biology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Gabriel N. Santos-Durán
- Department of Functional Biology, CIBUS, Faculty of Biology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Daniel Sobrido-Cameán
- Department of Functional Biology, CIBUS, Faculty of Biology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Carmen Núñez-González
- CINBIO, Neurocircuits Group, Campus Universitario Lagoas, Marcosende, Universidade de Vigo, 36310 Vigo, Spain
| | - Juan Pérez-Fernández
- CINBIO, Neurocircuits Group, Campus Universitario Lagoas, Marcosende, Universidade de Vigo, 36310 Vigo, Spain
| | - Antón Barreiro-Iglesias
- Department of Functional Biology, CIBUS, Faculty of Biology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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3
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Hosen S, Ikeda-Yorifuji I, Yamashita T. Asporin and CD109, expressed in the injured neonatal spinal cord, attenuate axonal re-growth in vitro. Neurosci Lett 2024; 833:137832. [PMID: 38796094 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2024.137832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Axonal regeneration is restricted in adults and causes irreversible motor dysfunction following spinal cord injury (SCI). In contrast, neonates have prominent regenerative potential and can restore their neural function. Although the distinct cellular responses in neonates have been studied, how they contribute to neural recovery remains unclear. To assess whether the secreted molecules in neonatal SCI can enhance neural regeneration, we re-analyzed the previously performed single-nucleus RNA-seq (snRNA-seq) and focused on Asporin and Cd109, the highly expressed genes in the injured neonatal spinal cord. In the present study, we showed that both these molecules were expressed in the injured spinal cords of adults and neonates. We treated the cortical neurons with recombinant Asporin or CD109 to observe their direct effects on neurons in vitro. We demonstrated that these molecules enhance neurite outgrowth in neurons. However, these molecules did not enhance re-growth of severed axons. Our results suggest that Asporin and CD109 influence neurites at the lesion site, rather than promoting axon regeneration, to restore neural function in neonates after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakura Hosen
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Iyo Ikeda-Yorifuji
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan.
| | - Toshihide Yamashita
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan; WPI Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Suita, Japan; Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Japan; Department of Neuro-Medical Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Japan.
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4
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Kong F, Yu H, Gao L, Xing E, Yu Y, Sun X, Wang W, Zhao D, Li X. Multifunctional Hierarchical Nanoplatform with Anisotropic Bimodal Mesopores for Effective Neural Circuit Reconstruction after Spinal Cord Injury. ACS NANO 2024; 18:13333-13345. [PMID: 38717602 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c03252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
A persistent inflammatory response, intrinsic limitations in axonal regenerative capacity, and widespread presence of extrinsic axonal inhibitors impede the restoration of motor function after a spinal cord injury (SCI). A versatile treatment platform is urgently needed to address diverse clinical manifestations of SCI. Herein, we present a multifunctional nanoplatform with anisotropic bimodal mesopores for effective neural circuit reconstruction after SCI. The hierarchical nanoplatform features of a Janus structure consist of dual compartments of hydrophilic mesoporous silica (mSiO2) and hydrophobic periodic mesoporous organosilica (PMO), each possessing distinct pore sizes of 12 and 3 nm, respectively. Unlike traditional hierarchical mesoporous nanomaterials with dual-mesopores interlaced with each other, the two sets of mesopores in this Janus nanoplatform are spatially independent and possess completely distinct chemical properties. The Janus mesopores facilitate controllable codelivery of dual drugs with distinct properties: the hydrophilic macromolecular enoxaparin (ENO) and the hydrophobic small molecular paclitaxel (PTX). Anchoring with CeO2, the resulting mSiO2&PMO-CeO2-PTX&ENO nanoformulation not only effectively alleviates ROS-induced neuronal apoptosis but also enhances microtubule stability to promote intrinsic axonal regeneration and facilitates axonal extension by diminishing the inhibitory effect of extracellular chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans. We believe that this functional dual-mesoporous nanoplatform holds significant potential for combination therapy in treating severe multifaceted diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanqi Kong
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Spine Center, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongyue Yu
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, iChem, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Lifei Gao
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, iChem, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Enyun Xing
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, iChem, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yan Yu
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, iChem, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xiaofei Sun
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Spine Center, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Wenxing Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, iChem, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Dongyuan Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, iChem, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xiaomin Li
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, iChem, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
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5
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Witkin JM, Radin DP, Rana S, Fuller DD, Fusco AF, Demers JC, Pradeep Thakre P, Smith JL, Lippa A, Cerne R. AMPA receptors play an important role in the biological consequences of spinal cord injury: Implications for AMPA receptor modulators for therapeutic benefit. Biochem Pharmacol 2024:116302. [PMID: 38763261 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) afflicts millions of individuals globally. There are few therapies available to patients. Ascending and descending excitatory glutamatergic neural circuits in the central nervous system are disrupted by SCI, making α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors (AMPARs) a potential therapeutic drug target. Emerging research in preclinical models highlights the involvement of AMPARs in vital processes following SCI including breathing, pain, inflammation, bladder control, and motor function. However, there are no clinical trial data reported in this patient population to date. No work on the role of AMPA receptors in sexual dysfunction after SCI has been disclosed. Compounds with selective antagonist and potentiating effects on AMPA receptors have benefit in animal models of SCI, with antagonists generally showing protective effects early after injury and potentiators (ampakines) producing improved breathing and bladder function. The role of AMPARs in pathophysiology and recovery after SCI depends upon the time post injury, and the timing of AMPAR augmentation or antagonism. The roles of inflammation, synaptic plasticity, sensitization, neurotrophic factors, and neuroprotection are considered in this context. The data summarized and discussed in this paper document proof of principle and strongly encourage additional studies on AMPARs as novel gateways to therapeutic benefit for patients suffering from SCI. The availability of both AMPAR antagonists such as perampanel and AMPAR allosteric modulators (i.e., ampakines) such as CX1739, that have been safely administered to humans, provides an expedited means of clinical inquiry for possible therapeutic advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M Witkin
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Departments of Neuroscience and Trauma Research, Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN, USA; RespireRx Pharmaceuticals Inc, Glen Rock, NJ, USA.
| | | | - Sabhya Rana
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - David D Fuller
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Anna F Fusco
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Julie C Demers
- Indiana University/Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Prajwal Pradeep Thakre
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jodi L Smith
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Arnold Lippa
- RespireRx Pharmaceuticals Inc, Glen Rock, NJ, USA
| | - Rok Cerne
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN, USA; RespireRx Pharmaceuticals Inc, Glen Rock, NJ, USA; Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška Cesta 4, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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6
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Davis GH, Zaya A, Pearce MMP. Impairment of the Glial Phagolysosomal System Drives Prion-Like Propagation in a Drosophila Model of Huntington's Disease. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e1256232024. [PMID: 38589228 PMCID: PMC11097281 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1256-23.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein misfolding, aggregation, and spread through the brain are primary drivers of neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis. Phagocytic glia are responsible for regulating the load of pathological proteins in the brain, but emerging evidence suggests that glia may also act as vectors for aggregate spread. Accumulation of protein aggregates could compromise the ability of glia to eliminate toxic materials from the brain by disrupting efficient degradation in the phagolysosomal system. A better understanding of phagocytic glial cell deficiencies in the disease state could help to identify novel therapeutic targets for multiple neurological disorders. Here, we report that mutant huntingtin (mHTT) aggregates impair glial responsiveness to injury and capacity to degrade neuronal debris in male and female adult Drosophila expressing the gene that causes Huntington's disease (HD). mHTT aggregate formation in neurons impairs engulfment and clearance of injured axons and causes accumulation of phagolysosomes in glia. Neuronal mHTT expression induces upregulation of key innate immunity and phagocytic genes, some of which were found to regulate mHTT aggregate burden in the brain. A forward genetic screen revealed Rab10 as a novel component of Draper-dependent phagocytosis that regulates mHTT aggregate transmission from neurons to glia. These data suggest that glial phagocytic defects enable engulfed mHTT aggregates to evade lysosomal degradation and acquire prion-like characteristics. Together, our findings uncover new mechanisms that enhance our understanding of the beneficial and harmful effects of phagocytic glia in HD and other neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham H Davis
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Rowan University, Glassboro, New Jersey 08028
- Department of Biology, Saint Joseph's University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19131
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of the Sciences, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Aprem Zaya
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of the Sciences, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Margaret M Panning Pearce
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Rowan University, Glassboro, New Jersey 08028
- Department of Biology, Saint Joseph's University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19131
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of the Sciences, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
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7
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Qian D, Dong Y, Liu X, Yu H, Song Z, Jia C, Zhang Z, Cao S, Hu F, Zhang X. Salidroside promotes the repair of spinal cord injury by inhibiting astrocyte polarization, promoting neural stem cell proliferation and neuronal differentiation. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:224. [PMID: 38724500 PMCID: PMC11082153 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-01989-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) remains a formidable challenge, lacking effective treatments. Following SCI, neural stem cells (NSCs) migrate to SCI sites, offering a potential avenue for nerve regeneration, but the effectiveness of this intrinsic repair mechanism remains suboptimal. Salidroside has demonstrated pro-repair attributes in various pathological conditions, including arthritis and cerebral ischemia, and the ability to curtail early-stage inflammation following SCI. However, the specific role of salidroside in the late-stage repair processes of SCI remains less defined. In this investigation, we observed that continuous salidroside treatment in SCI mice improved motor function recovery. Immunofluorescence-staining corroborated salidroside's capacity to stimulate nerve regeneration and remyelination, suppress glial scar hyperplasia, reduce the activation of neurotoxic A1 astrocytes, and facilitate NSCs migration towards the injured region. Mechanistically, in vitro experiments elucidated salidroside's significant role in restraining astrocyte proliferation and A1 polarization. It was further established that A1 astrocytes hinder NSCs proliferation while inducing their differentiation into astrocytes. Salidroside effectively ameliorated this inhibition of NSCs proliferation through diminishing c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway phosphorylation and restored their differentiation into neurons by suppressing the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway. In summary, our findings suggest that salidroside holds promise as a therapeutic agent for traumatic SCI treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingfei Qian
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 51 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100048, China
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety & CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Yuan Dong
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 51 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100048, China
| | - Xiaole Liu
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 51 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100048, China
| | - Haichao Yu
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 51 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100048, China
| | - Zelong Song
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 51 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100048, China
| | - Chengqi Jia
- Department of Orthopedics, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100035, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 51 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100048, China
| | - Shiqi Cao
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China.
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 51 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100048, China.
| | - Fanqi Hu
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China.
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 51 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100048, China.
| | - Xuesong Zhang
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100853, China.
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 51 Fucheng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100048, China.
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8
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Deng B, Jiang S, Liu G, Li X, Zhao Y, Fan X, Ren J, Ning C, Xu L, Ji L, Mu X. Tetramethylpyrazine-loaded electroconductive hydrogels promote tissue repair after spinal cord injury by protecting the blood-spinal cord barrier and neurons. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:4409-4426. [PMID: 38630533 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02160b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) usually induces profound microvascular dysfunction. It disrupts the integrity of the blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB), which could trigger a cascade of secondary pathological events that manifest as neuronal apoptosis and axonal demyelination. These events can further lead to irreversible neurological impairments. Thus, reducing the permeability of the BSCB and maintaining its substructural integrity are essential to promote neuronal survival following SCI. Tetramethylpyrazine (TMP) has emerged as a potential protective agent for treating the BSCB after SCI. However, its therapeutic potential is hindered by challenges in the administration route and suboptimal bioavailability, leading to attenuated clinical outcomes. To address this challenge, traditional Chinese medicine, TMP, was used in this study to construct a drug-loaded electroconductive hydrogel for synergistic treatment of SCI. A conductive hydrogel combined with TMP demonstrates good electrical and mechanical properties as well as superior biocompatibility. Furthermore, it also facilitates sustained local release of TMP at the implantation site. Furthermore, the TMP-loaded electroconductive hydrogel could suppress oxidative stress responses, thereby diminishing endothelial cell apoptosis and the breakdown of tight junction proteins. This concerted action repairs BSCB integrity. Concurrently, myelin-associated axons and neurons are protected against death, which meaningfully restore neurological functions post spinal cord injury. Hence, these findings indicate that combining the electroconductive hydrogel with TMP presents a promising avenue for potentiating drug efficacy and synergistic repair following SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Deng
- Division of Intelligent and Biomechanical System, State Key Laboratory of Tribology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Shengyuan Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Gang Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Xiaoye Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Yi Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Xiao Fan
- Department of Orthopedics, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jingpei Ren
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Chengyun Ning
- College of Materials Science and Technology, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Lin Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Linhong Ji
- Division of Intelligent and Biomechanical System, State Key Laboratory of Tribology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
| | - Xiaohong Mu
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
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9
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Sun Z, Chen Z, Yin M, Wu X, Guo B, Cheng X, Quan R, Sun Y, Zhang Q, Fan Y, Jin C, Yin Y, Hou X, Liu W, Shu M, Xue X, Shi Y, Chen B, Xiao Z, Dai J, Zhao Y. Harnessing developmental dynamics of spinal cord extracellular matrix improves regenerative potential of spinal cord organoids. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:772-787.e11. [PMID: 38565140 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Neonatal spinal cord tissues exhibit remarkable regenerative capabilities as compared to adult spinal cord tissues after injury, but the role of extracellular matrix (ECM) in this process has remained elusive. Here, we found that early developmental spinal cord had higher levels of ECM proteins associated with neural development and axon growth, but fewer inhibitory proteoglycans, compared to those of adult spinal cord. Decellularized spinal cord ECM from neonatal (DNSCM) and adult (DASCM) rabbits preserved these differences. DNSCM promoted proliferation, migration, and neuronal differentiation of neural progenitor cells (NPCs) and facilitated axonal outgrowth and regeneration of spinal cord organoids more effectively than DASCM. Pleiotrophin (PTN) and Tenascin (TNC) in DNSCM were identified as contributors to these abilities. Furthermore, DNSCM demonstrated superior performance as a delivery vehicle for NPCs and organoids in spinal cord injury (SCI) models. This suggests that ECM cues from early development stages might significantly contribute to the prominent regeneration ability in spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhenni Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Man Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xianming Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Bo Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiaokang Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Rui Quan
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuting Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yongheng Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chen Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yanyun Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xianglin Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Weiyuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Muya Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiaoyu Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Ya Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Bing Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zhifeng Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Jianwu Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, China.
| | - Yannan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
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10
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Brar HK, Dey S, Singh P, Pande D, Ghosh-Roy A. Functional Recovery Associated with Dendrite Regeneration in PVD Neuron of Caenorhabditis elegans. eNeuro 2024; 11:ENEURO.0292-23.2024. [PMID: 38548333 PMCID: PMC7615967 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0292-23.2024] [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: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
PVD neuron of Caenorhabditis elegans is a highly polarized cell with well-defined axonal, and dendritic compartments. PVD neuron operates in multiple sensory modalities including the control of both nociceptive touch sensation and body posture. Although both the axon and dendrites of this neuron show a regeneration response following laser-assisted injury, it is rather unclear how the behavior associated with this neuron is affected by the loss of these structures. It is also unclear whether neurite regrowth would lead to functional restoration in these neurons. Upon axotomy, using a femtosecond laser, we saw that harsh touch response was specifically affected leaving the body posture unperturbed. Subsequently, recovery in the touch response is highly correlated to the axon regrowth, which was dependent on DLK-1/MLK-1 MAP Kinase. Dendrotomy of both major and minor primary dendrites affected the wavelength and amplitude of sinusoidal movement without any apparent effect on harsh touch response. We further correlated the recovery in posture behavior to the type of dendrite regeneration events. We found that dendrite regeneration through the fusion and reconnection between the proximal and distal branches of the injured dendrite corresponded to improved recovery in posture. Our data revealed that the axons and dendrites of PVD neurons regulate the nociception and proprioception in worms, respectively. It also revealed that dendrite and axon regeneration lead to the restoration of these differential sensory modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harjot Kaur Brar
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience, National Brain Research Centre, Manesar 122052, Haryana, India
| | - Swagata Dey
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience, National Brain Research Centre, Manesar 122052, Haryana, India
| | - Pallavi Singh
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience, National Brain Research Centre, Manesar 122052, Haryana, India
| | - Devashish Pande
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience, National Brain Research Centre, Manesar 122052, Haryana, India
| | - Anindya Ghosh-Roy
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience, National Brain Research Centre, Manesar 122052, Haryana, India
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11
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Li X, Ji R, Duan L, Hao Z, Su Y, Wang H, Guan F, Ma S. MG53/GMs/HA-Dex neural scaffold promotes the functional recovery of spinal cord injury by alleviating neuroinflammation. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 267:131520. [PMID: 38615859 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131520] [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: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
The adverse microenvironment, including neuroinflammation, hinders the recovery of spinal cord injury (SCI). Regulating microglial polarization to alleviate neuroinflammation at the injury site is an effective strategy for SCI recovery. MG53 protein exerts obvious repair ability on multiple tissues damage, but with short half-life. In this study, we composited an innovative MG53/GMs/HA-Dex neural scaffold using gelatin microspheres (GMs), hyaluronic acid (HA), and dextran (Dex) loaded with MG53 protein. This novel neural scaffold could respond to MMP-2/9 protein and stably release MG53 protein with good physicochemical properties and biocompatibility. In addition, it significantly improved the motor function of SCI mice, suppressed M1 polarization of microglia and neuroinflammation, and promoted neurogenesis and axon regeneration. Further mechanistic experiments demonstrated that MG53/GMs/HA-Dex hydrogel inhibited the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Thus, this MG53/GMs/HA-Dex neural scaffold promotes the functional recovery of SCI mice by alleviating neuroinflammation, which provides a new intervention strategy for the neural regeneration and functional repair of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingfan Li
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Rong Ji
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Linyan Duan
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Zhizhong Hao
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Yujing Su
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Hao Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Fangxia Guan
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China.
| | - Shanshan Ma
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China.
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12
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Chen X, Wang B, Zhou Y, Wu X, Du A, Al Mamun A, Xu Y, Wang S, Jiang C, Xie L, Zhou K, Hu S, Xiao J. Poly (Betulinic Acid) Nanoparticles Loaded with bFGF Improve Functional Recovery After Spinal Cord Injury. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303462. [PMID: 38243745 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303462] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) is one of the crucial molecular events of secondary spinal cord injury (SCI). Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is a multipotent cell growth factor with an anti-oxidant effect. However, bFGF has a short half-life in vivo, which limits its therapeutic application. Biodegradable polymers with excellent biocompatibility have been recently applied in SCI. The negative aspect is that polymers cannot provide a significant therapeutic effect. Betulinic acid (BA), a natural anti-inflammatory compound, has been polymerized into poly (betulinic acid) (PBA) to serve as a drug carrier for bFGF. This study explores the therapeutic effects and underlying molecular mechanisms of PBA nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with bFGF (PBA-bFGF NPs) in SCI. Results show that PBA-bFGF NPs produce remarkable biocompatibility in vivo and in vitro. The results also demonstrate that local delivery of PBA-bFGF NPs enhances motor function recovery, inhibits OS, mitigates neuroinflammation, and alleviates neuronal apoptosis following SCI. Furthermore, the results indicate that local delivery of PBA-bFGF NPs activates the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2) signaling pathway following SCI. In summary, results suggest that local delivery of PBA-bFGF NPs delivers potential therapeutic advantages in the treatment and management of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianghang Chen
- Department of Arthroplasty, The First People's Hospital of Wenling, The Affiliated Wenling Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, Zhejiang, 317500, China
- College of Nursing, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Beini Wang
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Yongxiu Zhou
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Xuejuan Wu
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Anyu Du
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Abdullah Al Mamun
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
- Central Research Laboratory of The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui People's Hospital, Lishui City, Zhejiang, 323000, China
| | - Yitie Xu
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Shuangshuang Wang
- Department of Arthroplasty, The First People's Hospital of Wenling, The Affiliated Wenling Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, Zhejiang, 317500, China
| | - Chang Jiang
- Department of Arthroplasty, The First People's Hospital of Wenling, The Affiliated Wenling Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, Zhejiang, 317500, China
| | - Ling Xie
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Kailiang Zhou
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Siwang Hu
- Department of Arthroplasty, The First People's Hospital of Wenling, The Affiliated Wenling Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, Zhejiang, 317500, China
| | - Jian Xiao
- Department of Arthroplasty, The First People's Hospital of Wenling, The Affiliated Wenling Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, Zhejiang, 317500, China
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
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13
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Yuan T, Wang T, Zhang J, Ye F, Gu Z, Li Y, Xu J. Functional Polyphenol-Based Nanoparticles Boosted the Neuroprotective Effect of Riluzole for Acute Spinal Cord Injury. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:2607-2620. [PMID: 38530873 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Riluzole is commonly used as a neuroprotective agent for treating traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI), which works by blocking the influx of sodium and calcium ions and reducing glutamate activity. However, its clinical application is limited because of its poor solubility, short half-life, potential organ toxicity, and insufficient bioabilities toward upregulated inflammation and oxidative stress levels. To address this issue, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a natural polyphenol, was employed to fabricate nanoparticles (NPs) with riluzole to enhance the neuroprotective effects. The resulting NPs demonstrated good biocompatibility, excellent antioxidative properties, and promising regulation effects from the M1 to M2 macrophages. Furthermore, an in vivo SCI model was successfully established, and NPs could be obviously aggregated at the SCI site. More interestingly, excellent neuroprotective properties of NPs through regulating the levels of oxidative stress, inflammation, and ion channels could be fully demonstrated in vivo by RNA sequencing and sophisticated biochemistry evaluations. Together, the work provided new opportunities toward the design and fabrication of robust and multifunctional NPs for oxidative stress and inflammation-related diseases via biological integration of natural polyphenols and small-molecule drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taoyang Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Tianyou Wang
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Feng Ye
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zhipeng Gu
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Yiwen Li
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Jianguo Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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14
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Lv J, Yu H, Shan F, Ye J, Li A, Jing J, Zheng M, Tian D. Effect of Myelin Debris on the Phenotypic Transformation of Astrocytes after Spinal Cord Injury in Rats. Neuroscience 2024; 547:1-16. [PMID: 38570063 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
After spinal cord injury (SCI), the accumulation of myelin debris can serve as proinflammatory agents, hindering axon regrowth and exacerbating damage. While astrocytes have been implicated in the phagocytosis of myelin debris, the impact of this process on the phenotypic transformation of astrocytes and their characteristics following SCI in rats is not well understood. Here, we demonstrated that the conditioned medium of myelin debris can trigger apoptosis in rat primary astrocytes in vitro. Using a compressional SCI model in rats, we observed that astrocytes can engulf myelin debris through ATP-binding cassette transporter sub-family A member 1 (ABCA1), and these engulfed cells tend to transform into A1 astrocytes, as indicated by C3 expression. At 4 days post-injury (dpi), astrocytes rapidly transitioned into A1 astrocytes and maintained this phenotype from 4 to 28 dpi, while A2 astrocytes, characterized by S100, were only detected at 14 and 28 dpi. Reactive astrocytes, identified by Nestin, emerged at 4 and 7 dpi, whereas scar-forming astrocytes, marked by N-cadherin, were evident at 14 and 28 dpi. This study illustrates the distribution patterns of astrocyte subtypes and the potential interplay between astrocytes and myelin debris after SCI in rats. We emphasize that myelin debris can induce astrocyte apoptosis in vitro and promote the transformation of astrocytes into A1 astrocytes in vivo. These two classification methods are not mutually exclusive, but rather complementary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianwei Lv
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China; Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Hang Yu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China; Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Fangli Shan
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China; Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Jianan Ye
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China; Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Ao Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China; Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Juehua Jing
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China; Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China.
| | - Meige Zheng
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China; Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China.
| | - Dasheng Tian
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China; Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China.
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15
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Zhang W, Liu M, Ren J, Han S, Zhou X, Zhang D, Guo X, Feng H, Ye L, Feng S, Song X, Jin L, Wei Z. Magnetic Nanoparticles and Methylprednisolone Based Physico-Chemical Bifunctional Neural Stem Cells Delivery System for Spinal Cord Injury Repair. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2308993. [PMID: 38516757 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Neural stem cells (NSCs) transplantation is an attractive and promising treatment strategy for spinal cord injury (SCI). Various pathological processes including the severe inflammatory cascade and difficulty in stable proliferation and differentiation of NSCs limit its application and translation. Here, a novel physico-chemical bifunctional neural stem cells delivery system containing magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs and methylprednisolone (MP) is designed to repair SCI, the former regulates NSCs differentiation through magnetic mechanical stimulation in the chronic phase, while the latter alleviates inflammatory response in the acute phase. The delivery system releases MP to promote microglial M2 polarization, inhibit M1 polarization, and reduce neuronal apoptosis. Meanwhile, NSCs tend to differentiate into functional neurons with magnetic mechanical stimulation generated by MNPs in the static magnetic field, which is related to the activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. SCI mice achieve better functional recovery after receiving NSCs transplantation via physico-chemical bifunctional delivery system, which has milder inflammation, higher number of M2 microglia, more functional neurons, and axonal regeneration. Together, this bifunctional NSCs delivery system combined physical mechanical stimulation and chemical drug therapy is demonstrated to be effective, which provides new treatment insights into clinical transformation of SCI repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wencan Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong University Centre for Orthopaedics, Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, No. 107 Wenhua West Road, Lixia District, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Mingshan Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong University Centre for Orthopaedics, Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, No. 107 Wenhua West Road, Lixia District, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, No. 154 Anshan Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Shuwei Han
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong University Centre for Orthopaedics, Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, No. 107 Wenhua West Road, Lixia District, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Xiaolong Zhou
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong University Centre for Orthopaedics, Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, No. 107 Wenhua West Road, Lixia District, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Dapeng Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong University Centre for Orthopaedics, Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, No. 107 Wenhua West Road, Lixia District, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Xianzheng Guo
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong University Centre for Orthopaedics, Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, No. 107 Wenhua West Road, Lixia District, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Haiwen Feng
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, No. 154 Anshan Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Lei Ye
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products and Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 44 Wenhua West Road, Lixia District, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Shiqing Feng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong University Centre for Orthopaedics, Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, No. 107 Wenhua West Road, Lixia District, Jinan, 250012, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, No. 154 Anshan Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Xizi Song
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, No. 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin, 300072, China
| | - Lin Jin
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Biomedical Nanomaterials of Henan, Zhoukou Normal University, No. 6, Middle Section of Wenchang Avenue, Chuanhui District, Zhoukou, 466001, China
| | - Zhijian Wei
- Department of Orthopaedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong University Centre for Orthopaedics, Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, No. 107 Wenhua West Road, Lixia District, Jinan, 250012, China
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16
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Xu Z, Liu X, Pang Y, Chen Z, Jiang Y, Liu T, Zhang J, Xiong H, Gao X, Liu J, Liu S, Ning G, Feng S, Yao X, Guo S. Long-Acting Heterodimeric Paclitaxel-Idebenone Prodrug-Based Nanomedicine Promotes Functional Recovery after Spinal Cord Injury. NANO LETTERS 2024; 24:3548-3556. [PMID: 38457277 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.4c00856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
After spinal cord injury (SCI), successive systemic administration of microtubule-stabilizing agents has been shown to promote axon regeneration. However, this approach is limited by poor drug bioavailability, especially given the rapid restoration of the blood-spinal cord barrier. There is a pressing need for long-acting formulations of microtubule-stabilizing agents in treating SCI. Here, we conjugated the antioxidant idebenone with microtubule-stabilizing paclitaxel to create a heterodimeric paclitaxel-idebenone prodrug via an acid-activatable, self-immolative ketal linker and then fabricated it into chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan-binding nanomedicine, enabling drug retention within the spinal cord for at least 2 weeks and notable enhancement in hindlimb motor function and axon regeneration after a single intraspinal administration. Additional investigations uncovered that idebenone can suppress the activation of microglia and neuronal ferroptosis, thereby amplifying the therapeutic effect of paclitaxel. This prodrug-based nanomedicine simultaneously accomplishes neuroprotection and axon regeneration, offering a promising therapeutic strategy for SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zunkai Xu
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Xinjie Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, International Chinese Musculoskeletal Research Society Collaborating Center for Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Yilin Pang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, International Chinese Musculoskeletal Research Society Collaborating Center for Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Zhixia Chen
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Yaoyao Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Jiawei Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, International Chinese Musculoskeletal Research Society Collaborating Center for Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Haoning Xiong
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, International Chinese Musculoskeletal Research Society Collaborating Center for Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, International Chinese Musculoskeletal Research Society Collaborating Center for Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Jiao Liu
- Center of Medical and Health Analysis, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Shen Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, International Chinese Musculoskeletal Research Society Collaborating Center for Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Guangzhi Ning
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, International Chinese Musculoskeletal Research Society Collaborating Center for Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Shiqing Feng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, International Chinese Musculoskeletal Research Society Collaborating Center for Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300070, China
- Orthopedic Research Center of Shandong University and Department of Orthopedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Xue Yao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, International Chinese Musculoskeletal Research Society Collaborating Center for Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300070, China
- Orthopedic Research Center of Shandong University and Department of Orthopedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Shutao Guo
- Key Laboratory of Functional Polymer Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
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17
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Liu J, Qi L, Bao S, Yan F, Chen J, Yu S, Dong C. The acute spinal cord injury microenvironment and its impact on the homing of mesenchymal stem cells. Exp Neurol 2024; 373:114682. [PMID: 38199509 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a highly debilitating condition that inflicts devastating harm on the lives of affected individuals, underscoring the urgent need for effective treatments. By activating inflammatory cells and releasing inflammatory factors, the secondary injury response creates an inflammatory microenvironment that ultimately determines whether neurons will undergo necrosis or regeneration. In recent years, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have garnered increasing attention for their therapeutic potential in SCI. MSCs not only possess multipotent differentiation capabilities but also have homing abilities, making them valuable as carriers and mediators of therapeutic agents. The inflammatory microenvironment induced by SCI recruits MSCs to the site of injury through the release of various cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules, and enzymes. However, this mechanism has not been previously reported. Thus, a comprehensive exploration of the molecular mechanisms and cellular behaviors underlying the interplay between the inflammatory microenvironment and MSC homing is crucial. Such insights have the potential to provide a better understanding of how to harness the therapeutic potential of MSCs in treating inflammatory diseases and facilitating injury repair. This review aims to delve into the formation of the inflammatory microenvironment and how it influences the homing of MSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyi Liu
- Department of Anatomy, Medical College of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Longju Qi
- Affiliated Nantong Hospital 3 of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Shengzhe Bao
- Department of Anatomy, Medical College of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Fangsu Yan
- Department of Anatomy, Medical College of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jiaxi Chen
- Department of Anatomy, Medical College of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Shumin Yu
- Department of Anatomy, Medical College of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Chuanming Dong
- Department of Anatomy, Medical College of Nantong University, Nantong, China; Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China.
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18
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Yang Y, Fan R, Li H, Chen H, Gong H, Guo G. Polysaccharides as a promising platform for the treatment of spinal cord injury: A review. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 327:121672. [PMID: 38171685 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury is incurable and often results in irreversible damage to motor function and autonomic sensory abilities. To enhance the effectiveness of therapeutic substances such as cells, growth factors, drugs, and nucleic acids for treating spinal cord injuries, as well as to reduce the toxic side effects of chemical reagents, polysaccharides have been gained attention due to their immunomodulatory properties and the biocompatibility and biodegradability of polysaccharide scaffolds. Polysaccharides hold potential as drug delivery systems in treating spinal cord injuries. This article aims to present an extensive evaluation of the potential applications of polysaccharide materials in scaffold construction, drug delivery, and immunomodulation over the past five years so that offering new directions and opportunities for the treatment of spinal cord injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanli Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Rangrang Fan
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Haifeng Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hanlin Gong
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Gang Guo
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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19
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Xu ZX, Xu D, Fang F, Fan YJ, Wu B, Chen YF, Huang HE, Huang XH, Zhuang YH, Xu WH. Enhanced axon outgrowth of spinal motor neurons in co-culturing with dorsal root ganglions antagonizes the growth inhibitory environment. Regen Ther 2024; 25:68-76. [PMID: 38148872 PMCID: PMC10750115 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2023.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Forming a bridge made of functional axons to span the lesion is essential to reconstruct the motor circuitry following spinal cord injury (SCI). Dorsal root ganglion (DRG) axons are robust in axon growth and have been proved to facilitate the growth of cortical neurons in a process of axon-facilitated axon regeneration. However, whether DRG transplantation affects the axon outgrowth of spinal motor neurons (SMNs) that play crucial roles in motor circuitry remains unclear. Methods We investigated the axonal growth patterns of co-cultured DRGs and SMN aggregates (SMNAs) taking advantage of a well-designed 3D-printed in vitro system. Chondroitin sulphate proteoglycans (CSPG) induced inhibitory matrix was introduced to imitate the inhibitory environment following SCI. Axonal lengths of DRG, SMNA or DRG & SMNA cultured on the permissive or CSPG induced inhibitory matrix were measured and compared. Results Our results indicated that under the guidance of full axonal connection generated from two opposing populations of DRGs, SMNA axons were growth-enhanced and elongated along the DRG axon bridge to distances that they could not otherwise reach. Quantitatively, the co-culture increased the SMNA axonal length by 32.1 %. Moreover, the CSPG matrix reduced the axonal length of DRGs and SMNAs by 46.2 % and 17.7 %, respectively. This inhibitory effect was antagonized by the co-culture of DRGs and SMNAs. Especially for SMNAs, they extended the axons across the CSPG-coating matrix, reached the lengths close to those of SMNAs cultured on the permissive matrix alone. Conclusions This study deepens our understanding of axon-facilitated reconstruction of the motor circuitry. Moreover, the results support SCI treatment utilizing the enhanced outgrowth of axons to restore functional connectivity in SCI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Xing Xu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Department of Orthopedics, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Fujian Provincial Institute of Orthopedics, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Dan Xu
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Brain Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Fang Fang
- Department of Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Ying-Juan Fan
- Department of Pharmacology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Bing Wu
- The Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Yu-Fan Chen
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Hao-En Huang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Xin-Hao Huang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Yue-Hong Zhuang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Brain Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
| | - Wei-Hong Xu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Department of Orthopedics, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
- Fujian Provincial Institute of Orthopedics, Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China
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20
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Grau JW, Hudson KE, Johnston DT, Partipilo SR. Updating perspectives on spinal cord function: motor coordination, timing, relational processing, and memory below the brain. Front Syst Neurosci 2024; 18:1184597. [PMID: 38444825 PMCID: PMC10912355 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2024.1184597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Those studying neural systems within the brain have historically assumed that lower-level processes in the spinal cord act in a mechanical manner, to relay afferent signals and execute motor commands. From this view, abstracting temporal and environmental relations is the province of the brain. Here we review work conducted over the last 50 years that challenges this perspective, demonstrating that mechanisms within the spinal cord can organize coordinated behavior (stepping), induce a lasting change in how pain (nociceptive) signals are processed, abstract stimulus-stimulus (Pavlovian) and response-outcome (instrumental) relations, and infer whether stimuli occur in a random or regular manner. The mechanisms that underlie these processes depend upon signal pathways (e.g., NMDA receptor mediated plasticity) analogous to those implicated in brain-dependent learning and memory. New data show that spinal cord injury (SCI) can enable plasticity within the spinal cord by reducing the inhibitory effect of GABA. It is suggested that the signals relayed to the brain may contain information about environmental relations and that spinal cord systems can coordinate action in response to descending signals from the brain. We further suggest that the study of stimulus processing, learning, memory, and cognitive-like processing in the spinal cord can inform our views of brain function, providing an attractive model system. Most importantly, the work has revealed new avenues of treatment for those that have suffered a SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- James W. Grau
- Lab of Dr. James Grau, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Cellular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
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21
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Davis GH, Zaya A, Pearce MMP. Impairment of the glial phagolysosomal system drives prion-like propagation in a Drosophila model of Huntington's disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.10.04.560952. [PMID: 38370619 PMCID: PMC10871239 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.04.560952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Protein misfolding, aggregation, and spread through the brain are primary drivers of neurodegenerative diseases pathogenesis. Phagocytic glia are responsible for regulating the load of pathogenic protein aggregates in the brain, but emerging evidence suggests that glia may also act as vectors for aggregate spread. Accumulation of protein aggregates could compromise the ability of glia to eliminate toxic materials from the brain by disrupting efficient degradation in the phagolysosomal system. A better understanding of phagocytic glial cell deficiencies in the disease state could help to identify novel therapeutic targets for multiple neurological disorders. Here, we report that mutant huntingtin (mHTT) aggregates impair glial responsiveness to injury and capacity to degrade neuronal debris in male and female adult Drosophila expressing the gene that causes Huntington's disease (HD). mHTT aggregate formation in neurons impairs engulfment and clearance of injured axons and causes accumulation of phagolysosomes in glia. Neuronal mHTT expression induces upregulation of key innate immunity and phagocytic genes, some of which were found to regulate mHTT aggregate burden in the brain. Finally, a forward genetic screen revealed Rab10 as a novel component of Draper-dependent phagocytosis that regulates mHTT aggregate transmission from neurons to glia. These data suggest that glial phagocytic defects enable engulfed mHTT aggregates to evade lysosomal degradation and acquire prion-like characteristics. Together, our findings reveal new mechanisms that enhance our understanding of the beneficial and potentially harmful effects of phagocytic glia in HD and potentially other neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham H. Davis
- Rowan University, Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Glassboro, NJ 08028
- Saint Joseph’s University, Department of Biology, Philadelphia, PA 19131
- University of the Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Aprem Zaya
- University of the Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Margaret M. Panning Pearce
- Rowan University, Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Glassboro, NJ 08028
- Saint Joseph’s University, Department of Biology, Philadelphia, PA 19131
- University of the Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, Philadelphia, PA 19104
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22
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Brüll M, Geese N, Celardo I, Laumann M, Leist M. Preparation of Viable Human Neurites for Neurobiological and Neurodegeneration Studies. Cells 2024; 13:242. [PMID: 38334634 PMCID: PMC10854604 DOI: 10.3390/cells13030242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Few models allow the study of neurite damage in the human central nervous system. We used here dopaminergic LUHMES neurons to establish a culture system that allows for (i) the observation of highly enriched neurites, (ii) the preparation of the neurite fraction for biochemical studies, and (iii) the measurement of neurite markers and metabolites after axotomy. LUHMES-based spheroids, plated in culture dishes, extended neurites of several thousand µm length, while all somata remained aggregated. These cultures allowed an easy microscopic observation of live or fixed neurites. Neurite-only cultures (NOC) were produced by cutting out the still-aggregated somata. The potential application of such cultures was exemplified by determinations of their protein and RNA contents. For instance, the mitochondrial TOM20 protein was highly abundant, while nuclear histone H3 was absent. Similarly, mitochondrial-encoded RNAs were found at relatively high levels, while the mRNA for a histone or the neuronal nuclear marker NeuN (RBFOX3) were relatively depleted in NOC. Another potential use of NOC is the study of neurite degeneration. For this purpose, an algorithm to quantify neurite integrity was developed. Using this tool, we found that the addition of nicotinamide drastically reduced neurite degeneration. Also, the chelation of Ca2+ in NOC delayed the degeneration, while inhibitors of calpains had no effect. Thus, NOC proved to be suitable for biochemical analysis and for studying degeneration processes after a defined cut injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Brüll
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany; (M.B.); (N.G.); (I.C.)
| | - Nils Geese
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany; (M.B.); (N.G.); (I.C.)
| | - Ivana Celardo
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany; (M.B.); (N.G.); (I.C.)
| | - Michael Laumann
- Electron Microscopy Centre, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany;
| | - Marcel Leist
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany; (M.B.); (N.G.); (I.C.)
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing in Europe (CAAT-Europe), University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
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23
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Guan P, Fan L, Zhu Z, Yang Q, Kang X, Li J, Zhang Z, Liu S, Liu C, Wang X, Xu J, Wang K, Sun Y. M2 microglia-derived exosome-loaded electroconductive hydrogel for enhancing neurological recovery after spinal cord injury. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:8. [PMID: 38167113 PMCID: PMC10763283 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02255-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Electroconductive hydrogels offer a promising avenue for enhancing the repair efficacy of spinal cord injuries (SCI) by restoring disrupted electrical signals along the spinal cord's conduction pathway. Nonetheless, the application of hydrogels composed of diverse electroconductive materials has demonstrated limited capacity to mitigate the post-SCI inflammatory response. Recent research has indicated that the transplantation of M2 microglia effectively fosters SCI recovery by attenuating the excessive inflammatory response. Exosomes (Exos), small vesicles discharged by cells carrying similar biological functions to their originating cells, present a compelling alternative to cellular transplantation. This investigation endeavors to exploit M2 microglia-derived exosomes (M2-Exos) successfully isolated and reversibly bonded to electroconductive hydrogels through hydrogen bonding for synergistic promotion of SCI repair to synergistically enhance SCI repair. In vitro experiments substantiated the significant capacity of M2-Exos-laden electroconductive hydrogels to stimulate the growth of neural stem cells and axons in the dorsal root ganglion and modulate microglial M2 polarization. Furthermore, M2-Exos demonstrated a remarkable ability to mitigate the initial inflammatory reaction within the injury site. When combined with the electroconductive hydrogel, M2-Exos worked synergistically to expedite neuronal and axonal regeneration, substantially enhancing the functional recovery of rats afflicted with SCI. These findings underscore the potential of M2-Exos as a valuable reparative factor, amplifying the efficacy of electroconductive hydrogels in their capacity to foster SCI rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Guan
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedic, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Lei Fan
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Zhaobo Zhu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital Baiyun Branch, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Qinfeng Yang
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xinchang Kang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Junji Li
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedic, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Zuyu Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedic, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Shencai Liu
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Can Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xuelian Wang
- The Operating Room of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
| | - Kun Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China.
| | - Yongjian Sun
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedic, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
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24
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Hirt J, Khanteymoori A, Hohenhaus M, Kopp MA, Howells DW, Schwab JM, Watzlawick R. Inhibition of the Nogo-pathway in experimental spinal cord injury: a meta-analysis of 76 experimental treatments. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22898. [PMID: 38129508 PMCID: PMC10739940 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49260-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI) may be propagated by plasticity-enhancing treatments. The myelin-associated nerve outgrowth inhibitor Nogo-A (Reticulon 4, RTN4) pathway has been shown to restrict neuroaxonal plasticity in experimental SCI models. Early randomized controlled trials are underway to investigate the effect of Nogo-A/Nogo-Receptor (NgR1) pathway blockers. This systematic review and meta-analysis of therapeutic approaches blocking the Nogo-A pathway interrogated the efficacy of functional locomotor recovery after experimental SCI according to a pre-registered study protocol. A total of 51 manuscripts reporting 76 experiments in 1572 animals were identified for meta-analysis. Overall, a neurobehavioral improvement by 18.9% (95% CI 14.5-23.2) was observed. Subgroup analysis (40 experiments, N = 890) revealed SCI-modelling factors associated with outcome variability. Lack of reported randomization and smaller group sizes were associated with larger effect sizes. Delayed treatment start was associated with lower effect sizes. Trim and Fill assessment as well as Egger regression suggested the presence of publication bias. Factoring in theoretically missing studies resulted in a reduced effect size [8.8% (95% CI 2.6-14.9)]. The available data indicates that inhibition of the Nogo-A/NgR1pathway alters functional recovery after SCI in animal studies although substantial differences appear for the applied injury mechanisms and other study details. Mirroring other SCI interventions assessed earlier we identify similar factors associated with outcome heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Hirt
- Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology, Charité Campus Mitte, Clinical and Experimental Spinal Cord Injury Research Laboratory (Neuroparaplegiology), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alireza Khanteymoori
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Breisacher Straße 64, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marc Hohenhaus
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Breisacher Straße 64, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marcel A Kopp
- Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology, Charité Campus Mitte, Clinical and Experimental Spinal Cord Injury Research Laboratory (Neuroparaplegiology), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - David W Howells
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jan M Schwab
- Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology, Charité Campus Mitte, Clinical and Experimental Spinal Cord Injury Research Laboratory (Neuroparaplegiology), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Spinal Cord Injury Division (Paraplegiology), The Neurological Institute, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Belford Center for Spinal Cord Injury, Departments of Neuroscience and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Neurological Institute, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ralf Watzlawick
- Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology, Charité Campus Mitte, Clinical and Experimental Spinal Cord Injury Research Laboratory (Neuroparaplegiology), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Breisacher Straße 64, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.
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25
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Kim HJ, Saikia JM, Monte KMA, Ha E, Romaus-Sanjurjo D, Sanchez JJ, Moore AX, Hernaiz-Llorens M, Chavez-Martinez CL, Agba CK, Li H, Zhang J, Lusk DT, Cervantes KM, Zheng B. Deep scRNA sequencing reveals a broadly applicable Regeneration Classifier and implicates antioxidant response in corticospinal axon regeneration. Neuron 2023; 111:3953-3969.e5. [PMID: 37848024 PMCID: PMC10843387 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Despite substantial progress in understanding the biology of axon regeneration in the CNS, our ability to promote regeneration of the clinically important corticospinal tract (CST) after spinal cord injury remains limited. To understand regenerative heterogeneity, we conducted patch-based single-cell RNA sequencing on rare regenerating CST neurons at high depth following PTEN and SOCS3 deletion. Supervised classification with Garnett gave rise to a Regeneration Classifier, which can be broadly applied to predict the regenerative potential of diverse neuronal types across developmental stages or after injury. Network analyses highlighted the importance of antioxidant response and mitochondrial biogenesis. Conditional gene deletion validated a role for NFE2L2 (or NRF2), a master regulator of antioxidant response, in CST regeneration. Our data demonstrate a universal transcriptomic signature underlying the regenerative potential of vastly different neuronal populations and illustrate that deep sequencing of only hundreds of phenotypically identified neurons has the power to advance regenerative biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo J Kim
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Junmi M Saikia
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Neurosciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA USA
| | - Katlyn Marie A Monte
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Eunmi Ha
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Daniel Romaus-Sanjurjo
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Joshua J Sanchez
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Andrea X Moore
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Marc Hernaiz-Llorens
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Carmine L Chavez-Martinez
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Graduate program in Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Chimuanya K Agba
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Neurosciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA USA
| | - Haoyue Li
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Joseph Zhang
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Daniel T Lusk
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Kayla M Cervantes
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Binhai Zheng
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; VA San Diego Research Service, San Diego, CA, USA.
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26
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Chambel SS, Cruz CD. Axonal growth inhibitors and their receptors in spinal cord injury: from biology to clinical translation. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:2573-2581. [PMID: 37449592 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.373674] [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: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Axonal growth inhibitors are released during traumatic injuries to the adult mammalian central nervous system, including after spinal cord injury. These molecules accumulate at the injury site and form a highly inhibitory environment for axonal regeneration. Among these inhibitory molecules, myelin-associated inhibitors, including neurite outgrowth inhibitor A, oligodendrocyte myelin glycoprotein, myelin-associated glycoprotein, chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans and repulsive guidance molecule A are of particular importance. Due to their inhibitory nature, they represent exciting molecular targets to study axonal inhibition and regeneration after central injuries. These molecules are mainly produced by neurons, oligodendrocytes, and astrocytes within the scar and in its immediate vicinity. They exert their effects by binding to specific receptors, localized in the membranes of neurons. Receptors for these inhibitory cues include Nogo receptor 1, leucine-rich repeat, and Ig domain containing 1 and p75 neurotrophin receptor/tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 19 (that form a receptor complex that binds all myelin-associated inhibitors), and also paired immunoglobulin-like receptor B. Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans and repulsive guidance molecule A bind to Nogo receptor 1, Nogo receptor 3, receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase σ and leucocyte common antigen related phosphatase, and neogenin, respectively. Once activated, these receptors initiate downstream signaling pathways, the most common amongst them being the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway. These signaling cascades result in actin depolymerization, neurite outgrowth inhibition, and failure to regenerate after spinal cord injury. Currently, there are no approved pharmacological treatments to overcome spinal cord injuries other than physical rehabilitation and management of the array of symptoms brought on by spinal cord injuries. However, several novel therapies aiming to modulate these inhibitory proteins and/or their receptors are under investigation in ongoing clinical trials. Investigation has also been demonstrating that combinatorial therapies of growth inhibitors with other therapies, such as growth factors or stem-cell therapies, produce stronger results and their potential application in the clinics opens new venues in spinal cord injury treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sílvia Sousa Chambel
- Experimental Biology Unit, Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine of Porto; Translational NeuroUrology, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde-i3S and IBMC, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Célia Duarte Cruz
- Experimental Biology Unit, Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine of Porto; Translational NeuroUrology, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde-i3S and IBMC, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Deng H, Liu Y, Shi Z, Yang J, Liu C, Mei X. Zinc regulates a specific subpopulation of VEGFA + microglia to improve the hypoxic microenvironment for functional recovery after spinal cord injury. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 125:111092. [PMID: 37883817 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a central nervous system injury that is primarily traumatic and manifests as autonomic dysfunction below the level of injury. Our previous studies have found that zinc ions have important effects on the nervous system and nerve repair, promoting autophagy and reducing inflammatory responses. However, the role of zinc ions in vascular regeneration is unclear. AIMS We investigated the effect of zinc ions after spinal cord injury from the perspective of a hypoxic microenvironment, and elucidated the role of VEGF-A secreted by microglia for vascular regeneration after spinal cord injury, providing new ideas for the treatment of spinal cord injury. RESULTS Zinc promotes functional recovery after spinal cord injury by regulating VEGF-A secretion from microglia. On the one hand, VEGF-A secreted by microglia promotes angiogenesis through the PI3K/AKT/Bcl-2 pathway and improves the hypoxic microenvironment after spinal cord injury. On the other hand, VEGF-A secreted by microglia was positively correlated with platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (CD31), and zinc could increase the association between microglia and blood vessels. CONCLUSION Zinc promoted microglia secretion of VEGF-A, increased vascular endothelial cell proliferation and migration through the PI3K/AKT/Bcl-2 pathway, and inhibited microglia apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Deng
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Zuqiang Shi
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Chang Liu
- First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning Province, China.
| | - Xifan Mei
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning Province, China.
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Stewart AN, Gensel JC, Jones L, Fouad K. Challenges in Translating Regenerative Therapies for Spinal Cord Injury. Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil 2023; 29:23-43. [PMID: 38174141 PMCID: PMC10759906 DOI: 10.46292/sci23-00044s] [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] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Regenerating the injured spinal cord is a substantial challenge with many obstacles that need to be overcome to achieve robust functional benefits. This abundance of hurdles can partly explain the limited success when applying regenerative intervention treatments in animal models and/or people. In this article, we elaborate on a few of these obstacles, starting with the applicability of animal models and how they compare to the clinical setting. We then discuss the requirement for combinatorial interventions and the associated problems in experimental design, including the addition of rehabilitative training. The article expands on differences in lesion sizes and locations between humans and common animal models, and how this difference can determine the success or failure of an intervention. An additional and frequently overlooked problem in the translation of interventions that applies beyond the field of neuroregeneration is the reporting bias and the lack of transparency in reporting findings. New data mandates are tackling this problem and will eventually result in a more balanced view of the field. Finally, we will discuss strategies to negotiate the challenging course of successful translation to facilitate successful translation of regeneration promoting interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew N. Stewart
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - John C. Gensel
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Linda Jones
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Karim Fouad
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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Ji R, Hao Z, Wang H, Li X, Duan L, Guan F, Ma S. Application of Injectable Hydrogels as Delivery Systems in Spinal Cord Injury. Gels 2023; 9:907. [PMID: 37998998 PMCID: PMC10670785 DOI: 10.3390/gels9110907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe neurological injury caused by traffic accidents, trauma, or falls, which leads to significant loss of sensory, motor, and autonomous functions and seriously affects the patient's life quality. Although considerable progress has been made in mitigating secondary injury and promoting the regeneration/repair of SCI, the therapeutic effects need to be improved due to drug availability. Given their good biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low immunogenicity, injectable hydrogels can be used as delivery systems to achieve controlled release of drugs and other substances (cells and proteins, etc.), offering new hope for SCI repair. In this article, we summarized the types of injectable hydrogels, analyzed their application as delivery systems in SCI, and further discussed the mechanisms of hydrogels in the treatment of SCI, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-apoptosis, and pro-neurogenesis. Moreover, we highlighted the potential benefits of hydrogels in the treatment of SCI in combination with therapies, including the recent advances and achievements of these promising tools. Our review may offer new strategies for the development of SCI treatments based on injectable hydrogels as delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Fangxia Guan
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (R.J.); (Z.H.); (H.W.); (X.L.); (L.D.)
| | - Shanshan Ma
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; (R.J.); (Z.H.); (H.W.); (X.L.); (L.D.)
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Leibinger M, Zeitler C, Paulat M, Gobrecht P, Hilla A, Andreadaki A, Guthoff R, Fischer D. Inhibition of microtubule detyrosination by parthenolide facilitates functional CNS axon regeneration. eLife 2023; 12:RP88279. [PMID: 37846146 PMCID: PMC10581688 DOI: 10.7554/elife.88279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Injured axons in the central nervous system (CNS) usually fail to regenerate, causing permanent disabilities. However, the knockdown of Pten knockout or treatment of neurons with hyper-IL-6 (hIL-6) transforms neurons into a regenerative state, allowing them to regenerate axons in the injured optic nerve and spinal cord. Transneuronal delivery of hIL-6 to the injured brain stem neurons enables functional recovery after severe spinal cord injury. Here we demonstrate that the beneficial hIL-6 and Pten knockout effects on axon growth are limited by the induction of tubulin detyrosination in axonal growth cones. Hence, cotreatment with parthenolide, a compound blocking microtubule detyrosination, synergistically accelerates neurite growth of cultured murine CNS neurons and primary RGCs isolated from adult human eyes. Systemic application of the prodrug dimethylamino-parthenolide (DMAPT) facilitates axon regeneration in the injured optic nerve and spinal cord. Moreover, combinatorial treatment further improves hIL-6-induced axon regeneration and locomotor recovery after severe SCI. Thus, DMAPT facilitates functional CNS regeneration and reduces the limiting effects of pro-regenerative treatments, making it a promising drug candidate for treating CNS injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Leibinger
- Center for Pharmacology, Institute II, Medical Faculty and University of CologneCologneGermany
- Department of Cell Physiology, Ruhr University of BochumBochumGermany
| | - Charlotte Zeitler
- Center for Pharmacology, Institute II, Medical Faculty and University of CologneCologneGermany
- Department of Cell Physiology, Ruhr University of BochumBochumGermany
| | - Miriam Paulat
- Department of Cell Physiology, Ruhr University of BochumBochumGermany
| | - Philipp Gobrecht
- Center for Pharmacology, Institute II, Medical Faculty and University of CologneCologneGermany
- Department of Cell Physiology, Ruhr University of BochumBochumGermany
| | - Alexander Hilla
- Department of Cell Physiology, Ruhr University of BochumBochumGermany
| | - Anastasia Andreadaki
- Center for Pharmacology, Institute II, Medical Faculty and University of CologneCologneGermany
- Department of Cell Physiology, Ruhr University of BochumBochumGermany
| | - Rainer Guthoff
- Eye Hospital, Heinrich Heine University DüsseldorfDüsseldorfGermany
| | - Dietmar Fischer
- Center for Pharmacology, Institute II, Medical Faculty and University of CologneCologneGermany
- Department of Cell Physiology, Ruhr University of BochumBochumGermany
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31
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Stewart AN, Kumari R, Bailey WM, Glaser EP, Bosse-Joseph CC, Park KA, Hammers GV, Wireman OH, Gensel JC. PTEN knockout using retrogradely transported AAVs transiently restores locomotor abilities in both acute and chronic spinal cord injury. Exp Neurol 2023; 368:114502. [PMID: 37558155 PMCID: PMC10498341 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114502] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Restoring function in chronic stages of spinal cord injury (SCI) has often been met with failure or reduced efficacy when regenerative strategies are delayed past the acute or sub-acute stages of injury. Restoring function in the chronically injured spinal cord remains a critical challenge. We found that a single injection of retrogradely transported adeno-associated viruses (AAVrg) to knockout the phosphatase and tensin homolog protein (PTEN) in chronic SCI can effectively target both damaged and spared axons and transiently restore locomotor functions in near-complete injury models. AAVrg's were injected to deliver cre recombinase and/or a red fluorescent protein (RFP) under the human Synapsin 1 promoter (hSyn1) into the spinal cords of C57BL/6 PTENFloxΔ/Δ mice to knockout PTEN (PTEN-KO) in a severe thoracic SCI crush model at both acute and chronic time points. PTEN-KO improved locomotor abilities in both acute and chronic SCI conditions over a 9-week period. Regardless of whether treatment was initiated at the time of injury (acute), or three months after SCI (chronic), mice with limited hindlimb joint movement gained hindlimb weight support after treatment. Interestingly, functional improvements were not sustained beyond 9 weeks coincident with a loss of RFP reporter-gene expression and a near-complete loss of treatment-associated functional recovery by 6 months post-treatment. Treatment effects were also specific to severely injured mice; animals with weight support at the time of treatment lost function over a 6-month period. Retrograde tracing with Fluorogold revealed viable neurons throughout the motor cortex despite a loss of RFP expression at 9 weeks post-PTEN-KO. However, few Fluorogold labeled neurons were detected within the motor cortex at 6 months post-treatment. BDA labeling from the motor cortex revealed a dense corticospinal tract (CST) bundle in all groups except chronically treated PTEN-KO mice, indicating a potential long-term toxic effect of PTEN-KO to neurons in the motor cortex which was corroborated by a loss of β-tubulin III labeling above the lesion within spinal cords after PTEN-KO. PTEN-KO mice had significantly more β-tubulin III labeled axons within the lesion when treatment was delivered acutely, but not chronically post-SCI. In conclusion, we have found that using AAVrg's to knockout PTEN is an effective manipulation capable of restoring motor functions in chronic SCI and can enhance axon growth of currently unidentified axon populations when delivered acutely after injury. However, the long-term consequences of PTEN-KO on neuronal health and viability should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew N Stewart
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - Reena Kumari
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - William M Bailey
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Ethan P Glaser
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Christopher C Bosse-Joseph
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Kennedy A Park
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Gabrielle V Hammers
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Olivia H Wireman
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - John C Gensel
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
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32
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Glotfelty EJ, Hsueh SC, Claybourne Q, Bedolla A, Kopp KO, Wallace T, Zheng B, Luo Y, Karlsson TE, McDevitt RA, Olson L, Greig NH. Microglial Nogo delays recovery following traumatic brain injury in mice. Glia 2023; 71:2473-2494. [PMID: 37401784 PMCID: PMC10528455 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Nogo-A, B, and C are well described members of the reticulon family of proteins, most well known for their negative regulatory effects on central nervous system (CNS) neurite outgrowth and repair following injury. Recent research indicates a relationship between Nogo-proteins and inflammation. Microglia, the brain's immune cells and inflammation-competent compartment, express Nogo protein, although specific roles of the Nogo in these cells is understudied. To examine inflammation-related effects of Nogo, we generated a microglial-specific inducible Nogo KO (MinoKO) mouse and challenged the mouse with a controlled cortical impact (CCI) traumatic brain injury (TBI). Histological analysis shows no difference in brain lesion sizes between MinoKO-CCI and Control-CCI mice, although MinoKO-CCI mice do not exhibit the levels of ipsilateral lateral ventricle enlargement as injury matched controls. Microglial Nogo-KO results in decreased lateral ventricle enlargement, microglial and astrocyte immunoreactivity, and increased microglial morphological complexity compared to injury matched controls, suggesting decreased tissue inflammation. Behaviorally, healthy MinoKO mice do not differ from control mice, but automated tracking of movement around the home cage and stereotypic behavior, such as grooming and eating (termed cage "activation"), following CCI is significantly elevated. Asymmetrical motor function, a deficit typical of unilaterally brain lesioned rodents, was not detected in CCI injured MinoKO mice, while the phenomenon was present in CCI injured controls 1-week post-injury. Overall, our studies show microglial Nogo as a negative regulator of recovery following brain injury. To date, this is the first evaluation of the roles microglial specific Nogo in a rodent injury model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot J. Glotfelty
- Drug Design & Development Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Shih-Chang Hsueh
- Drug Design & Development Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Quia Claybourne
- Comparative Medicine Section, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Alicia Bedolla
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Katherine O. Kopp
- Drug Design & Development Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Tonya Wallace
- Flow Cytometry Unit, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Binhai Zheng
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Yu Luo
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | | | - Ross A. McDevitt
- Comparative Medicine Section, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Lars Olson
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nigel H. Greig
- Drug Design & Development Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, Intramural Research Program National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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33
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Xiao Y, Czopka T. Myelination-independent functions of oligodendrocyte precursor cells in health and disease. Nat Neurosci 2023; 26:1663-1669. [PMID: 37653126 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-023-01423-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) are a population of tissue-resident glial cells found throughout the CNS, constituting approximately 5% of all CNS cells and persisting from development to adulthood and aging. The canonical role of OPCs is to give rise to myelinating oligodendrocytes. However, additional functions of OPCs beyond this traditional role as precursors have been suggested for a long time. In this Perspective, we provide an overview of the multiple myelination-independent functions that have been described for OPCs in the context of neuron development, angiogenesis, inflammatory response, axon regeneration and their recently discovered roles in neural circuit remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xiao
- Institute of Neuronal Cell Biology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tim Czopka
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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Ross BC, Kent RN, Saunders MN, Schwartz SR, Smiley BM, Hocevar SE, Chen SC, Xiao C, Williams LA, Anderson AJ, Cummings BJ, Baker BM, Shea LD. Building-Block Size Mediates Microporous Annealed Particle Hydrogel Tube Microenvironment Following Spinal Cord Injury. Adv Healthc Mater 2023:e2302498. [PMID: 37768019 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a life-altering event, which often results in loss of sensory and motor function below the level of trauma. Biomaterial therapies have been widely investigated in SCI to promote directional regeneration but are often limited by their pre-constructed size and shape. Herein, the design parameters of microporous annealed particles (MAPs) are investigated with tubular geometries that conform to the injury and direct axons across the defect to support functional recovery. MAP tubes prepared from 20-, 40-, and 60-micron polyethylene glycol (PEG) beads are generated and implanted in a T9-10 murine hemisection model of SCI. Tubes attenuate glial and fibrotic scarring, increase innate immune cell density, and reduce inflammatory phenotypes in a bead size-dependent manner. Tubes composed of 60-micron beads increase the cell density of the chronic macrophage response, while neutrophil infiltration and phenotypes do not deviate from those seen in controls. At 8 weeks postinjury, implantation of tubes composed of 60-micron beads results in enhanced locomotor function, robust axonal ingrowth, and remyelination through both lumens and the inter-tube space. Collectively, these studies demonstrate the importance of bead size in MAP construction and highlight PEG tubes as a biomaterial therapy to promote regeneration and functional recovery in SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian C Ross
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Robert N Kent
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Michael N Saunders
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Samantha R Schwartz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Brooke M Smiley
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Sarah E Hocevar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan Medical School, 204 Washtenaw Ave, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Shao-Chi Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Chengchuan Xiao
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, 1105 North University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Laura A Williams
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Aileen J Anderson
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Biological Sciences III, 2642, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, 845 Health Sciences Rd, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of California, 18124 Culver Dr # F, Irvine, CA, 92612, USA
| | - Brian J Cummings
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Biological Sciences III, 2642, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, 845 Health Sciences Rd, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of California, 18124 Culver Dr # F, Irvine, CA, 92612, USA
| | - Brendon M Baker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2300 Hayward St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Lonnie D Shea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan Medical School, 204 Washtenaw Ave, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2300 Hayward St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
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35
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Kim H, Skuba A, Xia J, Han SB, Zhai J, Hu H, Kang SH, Son YJ. Oligodendrocyte precursor cells stop sensory axons regenerating into the spinal cord. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113068. [PMID: 37656624 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary somatosensory axons stop regenerating as they re-enter the spinal cord, resulting in incurable sensory loss. What arrests them has remained unclear. We previously showed that axons stop by forming synaptic contacts with unknown non-neuronal cells. Here, we identified these cells in adult mice as oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs). We also found that only a few axons stop regenerating by forming dystrophic endings, exclusively at the CNS:peripheral nervous system (PNS) borderline where OPCs are absent. Most axons stop in contact with a dense network of OPC processes. Live imaging, immuno-electron microscopy (immuno-EM), and OPC-dorsal root ganglia (DRG) co-culture additionally suggest that axons are rapidly immobilized by forming synapses with OPCs. Genetic OPC ablation enables many axons to continue regenerating deep into the spinal cord. We propose that sensory axons stop regenerating by encountering OPCs that induce presynaptic differentiation. Our findings identify OPCs as a major regenerative barrier that prevents intraspinal restoration of sensory circuits following spinal root injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyukmin Kim
- Department of Neural Sciences, Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Andy Skuba
- Department of Neural Sciences, Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jingsheng Xia
- Department of Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Sung Baek Han
- Department of Neural Sciences, Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jinbin Zhai
- Department of Neural Sciences, Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Huijuan Hu
- Department of Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Shin H Kang
- Department of Neural Sciences, Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Young-Jin Son
- Department of Neural Sciences, Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Yuan T, Wang T, Zhang J, Liu P, Xu J, Gu Z, Xu J, Li Y. Robust and Multifunctional Nanoparticles Assembled from Natural Polyphenols and Metformin for Efficient Spinal Cord Regeneration. ACS NANO 2023; 17:18562-18575. [PMID: 37708443 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c06991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI) remains unsatisfactory owing to the complex pathophysiological microenvironments at the injury site and the limited regenerative potential of the central nervous system. Metformin has been proven in clinical and animal experiments to repair damaged structures and functions by promoting endogenous neurogenesis. However, in the early stage of acute SCI, the adverse pathophysiological microenvironment of the injury sites, such as reactive oxygen species and inflammatory factor storm, can prevent the activation of endogenous neural stem cells (NSCs) and the differentiation of NSCs into neurons, decreasing the whole repair effect. To address those issues, a series of robust and multifunctional natural polyphenol-metformin nanoparticles (polyphenol-Met NPs) were fabricated with pH-responsiveness and excellent antioxidative capacities. The resulting NPs possessed several favorable advantages: First, the NPs were composed of active ingredients with different biological properties, without the need for carriers; second, the pH-responsiveness feature could allow targeted drug delivery at the injured site; more importantly, NPs enabled drugs with different performances to exhibit strong synergistic effects. The results demonstrated that the improved microenvironment by natural polyphenols boosted the differentiation of activated NSCs into neurons and oligodendrocytes, which could efficiently repair the injured nerve structures and enhance the functional recovery of the SCI rats. This work highlighted the design and fabrication of robust and multifunctional NPs for SCI treatment via efficient microenvironmental regulation and targeted NSCs activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taoyang Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Tianyou Wang
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Pengyu Liu
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Jiayi Xu
- Core Facilities, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Zhipeng Gu
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Jianguo Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yiwen Li
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
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Lear BP, Moore DL. Moving CNS axon growth and regeneration research into human model systems. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1198041. [PMID: 37425013 PMCID: PMC10324669 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1198041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Axon regeneration is limited in the adult mammalian central nervous system (CNS) due to both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Rodent studies have shown that developmental age can drive differences in intrinsic axon growth ability, such that embryonic rodent CNS neurons extend long axons while postnatal and adult CNS neurons do not. In recent decades, scientists have identified several intrinsic developmental regulators in rodents that modulate growth. However, whether this developmentally programmed decline in CNS axon growth is conserved in humans is not yet known. Until recently, there have been limited human neuronal model systems, and even fewer age-specific human models. Human in vitro models range from pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons to directly reprogrammed (transdifferentiated) neurons derived from human somatic cells. In this review, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each system, and how studying axon growth in human neurons can provide species-specific knowledge in the field of CNS axon regeneration with the goal of bridging basic science studies to clinical trials. Additionally, with the increased availability and quality of 'omics datasets of human cortical tissue across development and lifespan, scientists can mine these datasets for developmentally regulated pathways and genes. As there has been little research performed in human neurons to study modulators of axon growth, here we provide a summary of approaches to begin to shift the field of CNS axon growth and regeneration into human model systems to uncover novel drivers of axon growth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Darcie L. Moore
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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Shafqat A, Albalkhi I, Magableh HM, Saleh T, Alkattan K, Yaqinuddin A. Tackling the glial scar in spinal cord regeneration: new discoveries and future directions. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1180825. [PMID: 37293626 PMCID: PMC10244598 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1180825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Axonal regeneration and functional recovery are poor after spinal cord injury (SCI), typified by the formation of an injury scar. While this scar was traditionally believed to be primarily responsible for axonal regeneration failure, current knowledge takes a more holistic approach that considers the intrinsic growth capacity of axons. Targeting the SCI scar has also not reproducibly yielded nearly the same efficacy in animal models compared to these neuron-directed approaches. These results suggest that the major reason behind central nervous system (CNS) regeneration failure is not the injury scar but a failure to stimulate axon growth adequately. These findings raise questions about whether targeting neuroinflammation and glial scarring still constitute viable translational avenues. We provide a comprehensive review of the dual role of neuroinflammation and scarring after SCI and how future research can produce therapeutic strategies targeting the hurdles to axonal regeneration posed by these processes without compromising neuroprotection.
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Stewart AN, Kumari R, Bailey WM, Glaser EP, Hammers GV, Wireman OH, Gensel JC. PTEN knockout using retrogradely transported AAVs restores locomotor abilities in both acute and chronic spinal cord injury. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.17.537179. [PMID: 37131840 PMCID: PMC10153160 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.17.537179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Restoring function in chronic stages of spinal cord injury (SCI) has often been met with failure or reduced efficacy when regenerative strategies are delayed past the acute or sub-acute stages of injury. Restoring function in the chronically injured spinal cord remains a critical challenge. We found that a single injection of retrogradely transported adeno-associated viruses (AAVrg) to knockout the phosphatase and tensin homolog protein (PTEN) in chronic SCI can effectively target both damaged and spared axons and restore locomotor functions in near-complete injury models. AAVrg's were injected to deliver cre recombinase and/or a red fluorescent protein (RFP) under the human Synapsin 1 promoter (hSyn1) into the spinal cords of C57BL/6 PTEN FloxΔ / Δ mice to knockout PTEN (PTEN-KO) in a severe thoracic SCI crush model at both acute and chronic time points. PTEN-KO improved locomotor abilities in both acute and chronic SCI conditions over a 9-week period. Regardless of whether treatment was initiated at the time of injury (acute), or three months after SCI (chronic), mice with limited hindlimb joint movement gained hindlimb weight support after treatment. Interestingly, functional improvements were not sustained beyond 9 weeks coincident with a loss of RFP reporter-gene expression and a near-complete loss of treatment-associated functional recovery by 6 months post-treatment. Treatment effects were also specific to severely injured mice; animals with weight support at the time of treatment lost function over a 6-month period. Retrograde tracing with Fluorogold revealed viable neurons throughout the motor cortex despite a loss of RFP expression at 9 weeks post-PTEN-KO. However, few Fluorogold labeled neurons were detected within the motor cortex at 6 months post-treatment. BDA labeling from the motor cortex revealed a dense corticospinal tract (CST) bundle in all groups except chronically treated PTEN-KO mice indicating a potential long-term toxic effect of PTEN-KO to neurons in the motor cortex. PTEN-KO mice had significantly more β - tubulin III labeled axons within the lesion when treatment was delivered acutely, but not chronically post-SCI. In conclusion, we have found that using AAVrg's to knockout PTEN is an effective manipulation capable of restoring motor functions in chronic SCI and can enhance axon growth of currently unidentified axon populations when delivered acutely after injury. However, the long-term consequences of PTEN-KO may exert neurotoxic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew N. Stewart
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
| | - Reena Kumari
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
| | - William M. Bailey
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
| | - Ethan P. Glaser
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
| | - Gabrielle V. Hammers
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
| | - Olivia H. Wireman
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
| | - John C. Gensel
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
- College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
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Kim H, Saikia J, Monte K, Ha E, Romaus-Sanjurjo D, Sanchez J, Moore A, Hernaiz-Llorens M, Chavez-Martinez C, Agba C, Li H, Lusk D, Cervantes K, Zheng B. Probing regenerative heterogeneity of corticospinal neurons with scRNA-Seq. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2588274. [PMID: 36865182 PMCID: PMC9980198 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2588274/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The corticospinal tract (CST) is clinically important for the recovery of motor functions after spinal cord injury. Despite substantial progress in understanding the biology of axon regeneration in the central nervous system (CNS), our ability to promote CST regeneration remains limited. Even with molecular interventions, only a small proportion of CST axons regenerate1. Here we investigate this heterogeneity in the regenerative ability of corticospinal neurons following PTEN and SOCS3 deletion with patch-based single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq)2,3, which enables deep sequencing of rare regenerating neurons. Bioinformatic analyses highlighted the importance of antioxidant response and mitochondrial biogenesis along with protein translation. Conditional gene deletion validated a role for NFE2L2 (or NRF2), a master regulator of antioxidant response, in CST regeneration. Applying Garnett4, a supervised classification method, to our dataset gave rise to a Regenerating Classifier (RC), which, when applied to published scRNA-Seq data, generates cell type- and developmental stage-appropriate classifications. While embryonic brain, adult dorsal root ganglion and serotonergic neurons are classified as Regenerators, most neurons from adult brain and spinal cord are classified as Non-regenerators. Adult CNS neurons partially revert to a regenerative state soon after injury, which is accelerated by molecular interventions. Our data indicate the existence of universal transcriptomic signatures underlying the regenerative abilities of vastly different neuronal populations, and further illustrate that deep sequencing of only hundreds of phenotypically identified CST neurons has the power to reveal new insights into their regenerative biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Kim
- University of California San Diego
| | | | | | - Eunmi Ha
- University of California San Diego
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Liu S, Song L, Dai W, Liu M, Zhang H, Zhang X, Li H, Liu X, Lv Y, Hu Y. Worldwide productivity and research trend of publications concerning electroactive materials and spinal cord injury: A bibliometric study. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1094059. [PMID: 36923456 PMCID: PMC10009169 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1094059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: We investigated the current state and trends in the area during the previous 10 years using bibliometric approaches to evaluate the global scientific output of research on electroactive materials and spinal cord injury. Methods: Studies on spinal cord injury in electroactive materials that were published between 2012 and 2022 were located using the Web of science (WOS) datebase. The software programs bibliometrix R-package and CiteSpace were used to do quantitative analyses of annual publications, nation, author, institution, journal source, co-cited references, and keywords. The studies were categorized by the research's main points using a qualitative analysis, and publications having more than 10 citations each year. Results: In the final analysis, 1,330 relevant papers or reviews were included. There is an increased tendency in both the average annual citation rate and the number of publications in the discipline. The United States and the University of Toronto are the countries and institutions that have contributed the most to this discipline, respectively. The majority of authors are from the China and United States. Zhang Y is the author with the most published articles and holds the top position in the cited author h-index species. The journal with the highest number of published articles is "Disability and rehabilitation"; the journal is divided into four main areas including physics, materials, chemistry, molecular, and biology. The keyword analysis revealed a shift in research hotspots from schwann cell, fracture, and urinary disorders to carbon-based materials, functional recovery, and surgery. Analysis of qualitative data revealed that the role and mechanism of injectable conductive hydrogels in spinal cord healing after damage is a hot topic of current study, with the mechanism primarily focusing on the inhibition of oxidative stress (Nrf2) and apoptosis (Casepase 3). Conclusion: Our bibliometric analysis indicates that research on electroactive materials for spinal cord injury remains an active field of study. Moreover, contemporary research is concentrated on carbon-based materials, functional rehabilitation, and surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirui Liu
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Song
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Periodontology, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Weishu Dai
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Mengdie Liu
- The Third Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.,The First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Huijing Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Periodontology, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xueyan Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hongyu Li
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiu Liu
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Lv
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Hu
- Beijing Institute of Dental Research, Beijing Stomatological Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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