1
|
Tripartite synaptomics: Cell-surface proximity labeling in vivo. Neurosci Res 2021; 173:14-21. [PMID: 34019951 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2021.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The astrocyte is a central glial cell and plays a critical role in the architecture and activity of neuronal circuits and brain functions through forming a tripartite synapse with neurons. Emerging evidence suggests that dysfunction of tripartite synaptic connections contributes to a variety of psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. Furthermore, recent advancements with transcriptome profiling, cell biological and physiological approaches have provided new insights into the molecular mechanisms into how astrocytes control synaptogenesis in the brain. In addition to these findings, we have recently developed in vivo cell-surface proximity-dependent biotinylation (BioID) approaches, TurboID-surface and Split-TurboID, to comprehensively understand the molecular composition between astrocytes and neuronal synapses. These proteomic approaches have discovered a novel molecular framework for understanding the tripartite synaptic cleft that arbitrates neuronal circuit formation and function. Here, this short review highlights novel in vivo cell-surface BioID approaches and recent advances in this rapidly evolving field, emphasizing how astrocytes regulate excitatory and inhibitory synapse formation in vitro and in vivo.
Collapse
|
2
|
Duncan BW, Murphy KE, Maness PF. Molecular Mechanisms of L1 and NCAM Adhesion Molecules in Synaptic Pruning, Plasticity, and Stabilization. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:625340. [PMID: 33585481 PMCID: PMC7876315 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.625340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian brain circuits are wired by dynamic formation and remodeling during development to produce a balance of excitatory and inhibitory synapses. Synaptic regulation is mediated by a complex network of proteins including immunoglobulin (Ig)- class cell adhesion molecules (CAMs), structural and signal-transducing components at the pre- and post-synaptic membranes, and the extracellular protein matrix. This review explores the current understanding of developmental synapse regulation mediated by L1 and NCAM family CAMs. Excitatory and inhibitory synapses undergo formation and remodeling through neuronal CAMs and receptor-ligand interactions. These responses result in pruning inactive dendritic spines and perisomatic contacts, or synaptic strengthening during critical periods of plasticity. Ankyrins engage neural adhesion molecules of the L1 family (L1-CAMs) to promote synaptic stability. Chondroitin sulfates, hyaluronic acid, tenascin-R, and linker proteins comprising the perineuronal net interact with L1-CAMs and NCAM, stabilizing synaptic contacts and limiting plasticity as critical periods close. Understanding neuronal adhesion signaling and synaptic targeting provides insight into normal development as well as synaptic connectivity disorders including autism, schizophrenia, and intellectual disability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bryce W Duncan
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Neuroscience Research Center, Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Kelsey E Murphy
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Neuroscience Research Center, Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Patricia F Maness
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Neuroscience Research Center, Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Southey BR, Zhang P, Keever MR, Rymut HE, Johnson RW, Sweedler JV, Rodriguez-Zas SL. Effects of maternal immune activation in porcine transcript isoforms of neuropeptide and receptor genes. J Integr Neurosci 2021; 20:21-31. [PMID: 33834688 PMCID: PMC8103820 DOI: 10.31083/j.jin.2021.01.332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The prolonged effects of maternal immune activation in response stressors during gestation on the offspring's molecular pathways after birth are beginning to be understood. An association between maternal immune activation and neurodevelopmental and behavior disorders such as autism and schizophrenia spectrum disorders has been detected in long-term gene dysregulation. The incidence of alternative splicing among neuropeptides and neuropeptide receptor genes, critical cell-cell signaling molecules, associated with behavior may compromise the replicability of reported maternal immune activation effects at the gene level. This study aims to advance the understanding of the effect of maternal immune activation on transcript isoforms of the neuropeptide system (including neuropeptide, receptor and connecting pathway genes) underlying behavior disorders later in life. Recognizing the wide range of bioactive peptides and functional receptors stemming from alternative splicing, we studied the effects of maternal immune activation at the transcript isoform level on the hippocampus and amygdala of three-week-old pigs exposed to maternal immune activation due to viral infection during gestation. In the hippocampus and amygdala, 29 and 9 transcript isoforms, respectively, had maternal immune activation effects (P-value < 0.01). We demonstrated that the study of the effect of maternal immune activation on neuropeptide systems at the isoform level is necessary to expose opposite effects among transcript isoforms from the same gene. Genes were maternal immune activation effects have also been associated with neurodevelopmental and behavior disorders. The characterization of maternal immune activation effects at the transcript isoform level advances the understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders and identifies precise therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruce R Southey
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, 61801 IL, USA
| | - Pan Zhang
- Illinois Informatics Institute, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, 61801 IL, USA
| | - Marissa R Keever
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, 61801 IL, USA
| | - Haley E Rymut
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, 61801 IL, USA
| | - Rodney W Johnson
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, 61801 IL, USA.,Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, 61801 IL, USA
| | - Jonathan V Sweedler
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, 61801 IL, USA.,Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, 61801 IL, USA
| | - Sandra L Rodriguez-Zas
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, 61801 IL, USA.,Illinois Informatics Institute, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, 61801 IL, USA.,Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, 61801 IL, USA.,Department of Statistics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, 61801 IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zheng Y, Verhoeff TA, Perez Pardo P, Garssen J, Kraneveld AD. The Gut-Brain Axis in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Focus on the Metalloproteases ADAM10 and ADAM17. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010118. [PMID: 33374371 PMCID: PMC7796333 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a spectrum of disorders that are characterized by problems in social interaction and repetitive behavior. The disease is thought to develop from changes in brain development at an early age, although the exact mechanisms are not known yet. In addition, a significant number of people with ASD develop problems in the intestinal tract. A Disintegrin And Metalloproteases (ADAMs) include a group of enzymes that are able to cleave membrane-bound proteins. ADAM10 and ADAM17 are two members of this family that are able to cleave protein substrates involved in ASD pathogenesis, such as specific proteins important for synapse formation, axon signaling and neuroinflammation. All these pathological mechanisms are involved in ASD. Besides the brain, ADAM10 and ADAM17 are also highly expressed in the intestines. ADAM10 and ADAM17 have implications in pathways that regulate gut permeability, homeostasis and inflammation. These metalloproteases might be involved in microbiota-gut-brain axis interactions in ASD through the regulation of immune and inflammatory responses in the intestinal tract. In this review, the potential roles of ADAM10 and ADAM17 in the pathology of ASD and as targets for new therapies will be discussed, with a focus on the gut-brain axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanpeng Zheng
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; (Y.Z.); (T.A.V.); (P.P.P.); (J.G.)
| | - Tessa A. Verhoeff
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; (Y.Z.); (T.A.V.); (P.P.P.); (J.G.)
| | - Paula Perez Pardo
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; (Y.Z.); (T.A.V.); (P.P.P.); (J.G.)
| | - Johan Garssen
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; (Y.Z.); (T.A.V.); (P.P.P.); (J.G.)
- Global Centre of Excellence Immunology, Danone Nutricia Research B.V., 3584CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Aletta D. Kraneveld
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; (Y.Z.); (T.A.V.); (P.P.P.); (J.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-(0)3-02534509
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chen ZH, Luo XC, Yu CR, Huang L. Matrix metalloprotease-mediated cleavage of neural glial-related cell adhesion molecules activates quiescent olfactory stem cells via EGFR. Mol Cell Neurosci 2020; 108:103552. [PMID: 32918999 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2020.103552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Quiescent stem cells have been found in multiple adult organs, and activation of these stem cells is critical to the restoration of damaged tissues in response to injury or stress. Existing evidence suggests that extrinsic cues from the extracellular matrix or supporting cells of various stem cell niches may interact with intrinsic components to initiate stem cell differentiation, but the molecular and cellular mechanisms regulating their activation are not fully understood. In the present study, we find that olfactory horizontal basal cells (HBCs) are stimulated by neural glial-related cell adhesion molecules (NrCAMs). NrCAM activation requires matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) and epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFRs). Inhibiting MMP activity or EGFR activation not only blocks HBC proliferation in the cultured olfactory organoids, but also severely suppresses HBC proliferation in the olfactory epithelium following methimazole-induced injury, resulting in a delay of olfactory mucosa reconstitution and functional recovery of the injured mice. Both NrCAMs and EGFR are expressed by the HBCs and their expression increases upon injury. Our data indicate that MMP-mediated cleavage of NrCAMs serves as an autocrine or paracrine signal that activates EGFRs on HBCs to trigger HBC proliferation and differentiation to reconstruct the entire olfactory epithelium following injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Huang Chen
- Institute of Cellular and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Xiao-Cui Luo
- Institute of Cellular and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - C Ron Yu
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, 1000 East 50th Street, Kansas City, MO 64110, USA; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Liquan Huang
- Institute of Cellular and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310027, China; Monell Chemical Senses Center, 3500 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bhandari R, Paliwal JK, Kuhad A. Neuropsychopathology of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Complex Interplay of Genetic, Epigenetic, and Environmental Factors. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 24:97-141. [PMID: 32006358 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-30402-7_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex heterogeneous consortium of pervasive development disorders (PDD) which ranges from atypical autism, autism, and Asperger syndrome affecting brain in the developmental stage. This debilitating neurodevelopmental disorder results in both core as well as associated symptoms. Core symptoms observed in autistic patients are lack of social interaction, pervasive, stereotyped, and restricted behavior while the associated symptoms include irritability, anxiety, aggression, and several comorbid disorders.ASD is a polygenic disorder and is multifactorial in origin. Copy number variations (CNVs) of several genes that regulate the synaptogenesis and signaling pathways are one of the major factors responsible for the pathogenesis of autism. The complex integration of various CNVs cause mutations in the genes which code for molecules involved in cell adhesion, voltage-gated ion-channels, scaffolding proteins as well as signaling pathways (PTEN and mTOR pathways). These mutated genes are responsible for affecting synaptic transmission by causing plasticity dysfunction responsible, in turn, for the expression of ASD.Epigenetic modifications affecting DNA transcription and various pre-natal and post-natal exposure to a variety of environmental factors are also precipitating factors for the occurrence of ASD. All of these together cause dysregulation of glutamatergic signaling as well as imbalance in excitatory: inhibitory pathways resulting in glial cell activation and release of inflammatory mediators responsible for the aberrant social behavior which is observed in autistic patients.In this chapter we review and provide insight into the intricate integration of various genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors which play a major role in the pathogenesis of this disorder and the mechanistic approach behind this integration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ranjana Bhandari
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Jyoti K Paliwal
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Anurag Kuhad
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Association of MTHFR 677C>T and 1298A>C polymorphisms with susceptibility to autism: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Asian J Psychiatr 2019; 46:54-61. [PMID: 31614268 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2019.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2019] [Revised: 09/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have investigated association of MTHFR 677C > T and 1298A > C polymorphisms with risk of autism, but they have reported controversial and inconclusive results. The present meta-analysis was designed to evaluate association of MTHFR 677C > T and 1298A > C polymorphisms with risk of autism. A comprehensive literature search was done in PubMed, EMBASE, and CNKI databases to identify all eligible publications up to April 01, 2019. Finally, 25 case-control studies including 18 studies on MTHFR 677C > T and 7 studies on MTHFR 1298A > C polymorphism were selected. Overall, a significant association was found between MTHFR 677C > T and an increased risk of autism under all five genetic models (T vs. C: OR = 1.483, 95% CI 1.188-1.850, p ≤ 0.001; TT vs. CC: OR = 1.834, 95% CI 1.155-2.913, p = 0.010; TC vs. CC: OR = 1.512, 95% CI 1.101-2.078, p = 0.011; TT + TC vs. CC: OR = 1.632, 95% CI 1.261-2.113, p ≤ 0.001; and TT vs. TC + CC: OR = 1.427, 95% CI 1.002-2.032, p = 0.049). However, no significant association was found between MTHFR 1298A > C and autism risk. Stratified analyses showed that MTHFR 677C > T and 1298A > C polymorphisms are involved in genetic susceptibility of autism by ethnicity. Results of this meta-analysis indicated that MTHFR 677C > T polymorphism may be associated with increased risk of autism in overall and by ethnicity, while MTHFR 1298A > C was reported to be significantly associated with the risk of autism only in Caucasians. MTHFR polymorphisms could be used as a diagnostic marker for autism with respect to ethnicity background.
Collapse
|
8
|
Alteration of miRNA-mRNA interactions in lymphocytes of individuals with schizophrenia. J Psychiatr Res 2019; 112:89-98. [PMID: 30870714 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2019.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The aetiology of schizophrenia is complex, heterogeneous, and involves interplay of many genetic and environmental influences. While significant progress has been made in the understanding the common heritable component, we are still grappling with the genomic encoding of environmental risk. One class of molecule that has tremendous potential is miRNA. These molecules are regulated by genetic and environmental factors associated with schizophrenia and have a very significant impact on temporospatial patterns of gene expression. To better understand the relationship between miRNA and gene expression in the disorder we analysed these molecules in RNA isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from an Australian cohort of 36 individuals with schizophrenia and 15 healthy controls using next-generation RNA sequencing. Significant changes in both mRNA and miRNA expression profiles were observed implicating important interaction networks involved in immune activity and development. We also observed sexual dimorphism, particularly in relation to variation in mRNA, with males showing significantly more differentially expressed genes. Interestingly, while we explored expression in lymphocytes, the systems biology of miRNA-mRNA interactions was suggestive of significant pleiotropy with enrichment of networks related to neuronal activity.
Collapse
|
9
|
Genes and Pathways Regulated by Androgens in Human Neural Cells, Potential Candidates for the Male Excess in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Biol Psychiatry 2018; 84:239-252. [PMID: 29428674 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2018.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal exposure to androgens during brain development in male individuals may participate to increase their susceptibility to develop neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability. However, little is known about the action of androgens in human neural cells. METHODS We used human neural stem cells differentiated from embryonic stem cells to investigate targets of androgens. RESULTS RNA sequencing revealed that treatment with dihydrotestosterone (DHT) leads to subtle but significant changes in the expression of about 200 genes, encoding proteins of extracellular matrix or involved in signal transduction of growth factors (e.g., insulin/insulin growth factor 1). We showed that the most differentially expressed genes (DEGs), RGCC, RNF144B, NRCAM, TRIM22, FAM107A, IGFBP5, and LAMA2, are reproducibly regulated by different androgens in different genetic backgrounds. We showed, by overexpressing the androgen receptor in neuroblastoma cells SH-SY5Y or knocking it down in human neural stem cells, that this regulation involves the androgen receptor. A chromatin immunoprecipitation combined with direct sequencing analysis identified androgen receptor-bound sequences in nearly half of the DHT-DEGs and in numerous other genes. DHT-DEGs appear enriched in genes involved in ASD (ASXL3, NLGN4X, etc.), associated with ASD (NRCAM), or differentially expressed in patients with ASD (FAM107A, IGFBP5). Androgens increase human neural stem cell proliferation and survival in nutrient-deprived culture conditions, with no detectable effect on regulation of neurite outgrowth. CONCLUSIONS We characterized androgen action in neural progenitor cells, identifying DHT-DEGs that appear to be enriched in genes related to ASD. We also showed that androgens increase proliferation of neuronal precursors and protect them from death during their differentiation in nutrient-deprived conditions.
Collapse
|
10
|
Bae SM, Hong JY. The Wnt Signaling Pathway and Related Therapeutic Drugs in Autism Spectrum Disorder. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE 2018; 16:129-135. [PMID: 29739125 PMCID: PMC5953011 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2018.16.2.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Revised: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a series of neurodevelopmental disorder with a large genetic component. However, the pathogenic genes and molecular mechanisms of ASD have not been clearly defined. Recent technological advancements, such as next-generation sequencing, have led to the identification of certain loci that is responsible for the pathophysiology of ASD. Three functional pathways, such as chromatin remodeling, Wnt signaling and mitochondrial dysfunction are potentially involved in ASD. In this review, we will focus on recent studies of the involvement of Wnt signaling pathway components in ASD pathophysiology and related drugs used in ASD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seung Min Bae
- Department of Psychiatry, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Ji Yeon Hong
- Department of Medicine, Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Morelli KH, Seburn KL, Schroeder DG, Spaulding EL, Dionne LA, Cox GA, Burgess RW. Severity of Demyelinating and Axonal Neuropathy Mouse Models Is Modified by Genes Affecting Structure and Function of Peripheral Nodes. Cell Rep 2017; 18:3178-3191. [PMID: 28355569 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2017.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Revised: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of inherited polyneuropathies. Mutations in 80 genetic loci can cause forms of CMT, resulting in demyelination and axonal dysfunction. The clinical presentation, including sensory deficits, distal muscle weakness, and atrophy, can vary greatly in severity and progression. Here, we used mouse models of CMT to demonstrate genetic interactions that result in a more severe neuropathy phenotype. The cell adhesion molecule Nrcam and the Na+ channel Scn8a (NaV1.6) are important components of nodes. Homozygous Nrcam and heterozygous Scn8a mutations synergized with both an Sh3tc2 mutation, modeling recessive demyelinating Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 4C, and mutations in Gars, modeling dominant axonal Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 2D. We conclude that genetic variants perturbing the structure and function of nodes interact with mutations affecting the cable properties of axons by thinning myelin or reducing axon diameter. Therefore, genes integral to peripheral nodes are candidate modifiers of peripheral neuropathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn H Morelli
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, USA
| | | | | | - Emily L Spaulding
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, USA
| | | | - Gregory A Cox
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, USA
| | - Robert W Burgess
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Xenopus laevis neuronal cell adhesion molecule (nrcam): plasticity of a CAM in the developing nervous system. Dev Genes Evol 2016; 227:61-67. [PMID: 27942869 DOI: 10.1007/s00427-016-0569-9] [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: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Neuron-glial-related cell adhesion molecule (NRCAM) is a neuronal cell adhesion molecule of the L1 immunoglobulin superfamily, which plays diverse roles during nervous system development including axon growth and guidance, synapse formation, and formation of the myelinated nerve. Perturbations in NRCAM function cause a wide variety of disorders, which can affect wiring and targeting of neurons, or cause psychiatric disorders as well as cancers through abnormal modulation of signaling events. In the present study, we characterize the Xenopus laevis homolog of nrcam. Expression of Xenopus nrcam is most abundant along the dorsal midline throughout the developing brain and in the outer nuclear layer of the retina.
Collapse
|
13
|
Impairments in dendrite morphogenesis as etiology for neurodevelopmental disorders and implications for therapeutic treatments. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 68:946-978. [PMID: 27143622 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Revised: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Dendrite morphology is pivotal for neural circuitry functioning. While the causative relationship between small-scale dendrite morphological abnormalities (shape, density of dendritic spines) and neurodevelopmental disorders is well established, such relationship remains elusive for larger-scale dendrite morphological impairments (size, shape, branching pattern of dendritic trees). Here, we summarize published data on dendrite morphological irregularities in human patients and animal models for neurodevelopmental disorders, with focus on autism and schizophrenia. We next discuss high-risk genes for these disorders and their role in dendrite morphogenesis. We finally overview recent developments in therapeutic attempts and we discuss how they relate to dendrite morphology. We find that both autism and schizophrenia are accompanied by dendritic arbor morphological irregularities, and that majority of their high-risk genes regulate dendrite morphogenesis. Thus, we present a compelling argument that, along with smaller-scale morphological impairments in dendrites (spines and synapse), irregularities in larger-scale dendrite morphology (arbor shape, size) may be an important part of neurodevelopmental disorders' etiology. We suggest that this should not be ignored when developing future therapeutic treatments.
Collapse
|
14
|
Ingold E, Vom Berg-Maurer CM, Burckhardt CJ, Lehnherr A, Rieder P, Keller PJ, Stelzer EH, Greber UF, Neuhauss SCF, Gesemann M. Proper migration and axon outgrowth of zebrafish cranial motoneuron subpopulations require the cell adhesion molecule MDGA2A. Biol Open 2015; 4:146-54. [PMID: 25572423 PMCID: PMC4365483 DOI: 10.1242/bio.20148482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The formation of functional neuronal circuits relies on accurate migration and proper axonal outgrowth of neuronal precursors. On the route to their targets migrating cells and growing axons depend on both, directional information from neurotropic cues and adhesive interactions mediated via extracellular matrix molecules or neighbouring cells. The inactivation of guidance cues or the interference with cell adhesion can cause severe defects in neuronal migration and axon guidance. In this study we have analyzed the function of the MAM domain containing glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor 2A (MDGA2A) protein in zebrafish cranial motoneuron development. MDGA2A is prominently expressed in distinct clusters of cranial motoneurons, especially in the ones of the trigeminal and facial nerves. Analyses of MDGA2A knockdown embryos by light sheet and confocal microscopy revealed impaired migration and aberrant axonal outgrowth of these neurons; suggesting that adhesive interactions mediated by MDGA2A are required for the proper arrangement and outgrowth of cranial motoneuron subtypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esther Ingold
- Brain Research Institute of the University Zurich and Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH), Department of Biology, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | - André Lehnherr
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Philip Rieder
- Brain Research Institute of the University Zurich and Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH), Department of Biology, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Philip J Keller
- EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ernst H Stelzer
- EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Urs F Greber
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stephan C F Neuhauss
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Gesemann
- Brain Research Institute of the University Zurich and Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH), Department of Biology, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kim YJ, Park JK, Kang WS, Kim SK, Park HJ, Nam M, Kim JW. LAMB1 polymorphism is associated with autism symptom severity in Korean autism spectrum disorder patients. Nord J Psychiatry 2015; 69:594-8. [PMID: 25774865 DOI: 10.3109/08039488.2015.1022597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND LAMB1 encodes laminin beta-1, which is expressed during early development of the human nervous system, and could be involved in the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental disorders. AIMS In our study, we aimed to investigate whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in LAMB1 were associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and with related clinical severities of ASD. METHODS Two coding SNPs (rs20556 and rs25659) and two intronic SNPs (rs2158836 and rs2237659) were compared between 180 patients with ASD and 147 healthy control subjects using direct sequencing. The Korean version of the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (K-CARS) was used to assess clinical severities. Multiple logistic regression models were employed to analyze genetic data, and associations with symptom severity were tested with the Kruskal-Wallis and the Mann-Whitney U tests. RESULTS None of the four examined SNPs was associated with ASD risk. However, the GG genotype of rs2158836 was associated with more severe symptoms for the "object use" and "non-verbal communication" measures. CONCLUSIONS The results of our study suggest the association between rs2158836 polymorphisms and symptom severity in ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Young Jong Kim
- a Young Jong Kim, Department of Neuropsychiatry , School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University , Seoul 130-701 , Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Kyung Park
- b Jin Kyung Park, Department of Neuropsychiatry , School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University , Seoul 130-701 , Republic of Korea
| | - Won Sub Kang
- c Won Sub Kang, Department of Neuropsychiatry , School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University , Seoul 130-701 , Republic of Korea
| | - Su Kang Kim
- d Su Kang Kim, Kohwang Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University , Seoul 130-701 , Republic of Korea
| | - Hae Jeong Park
- e Hae Jeong Park, Kohwang Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University , Seoul 130-701 , Republic of Korea
| | - Min Nam
- f Min Nam, Seoul Metropolitan Eunpyeong Hospital , 90 Baeknyeonsan-ro, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul 122-913, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Woo Kim
- g Jong Woo Kim, Department of Neuropsychiatry , School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University , Seoul 130-701 , Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Neural cell adhesion molecule NrCAM regulates Semaphorin 3F-induced dendritic spine remodeling. J Neurosci 2014; 34:11274-87. [PMID: 25143608 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1774-14.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuron-glial related cell adhesion molecule (NrCAM) is a regulator of axon growth and repellent guidance, and has been implicated in autism spectrum disorders. Here a novel postsynaptic role for NrCAM in Semaphorin3F (Sema3F)-induced dendritic spine remodeling was identified in pyramidal neurons of the primary visual cortex (V1). NrCAM localized to dendritic spines of star pyramidal cells in postnatal V1, where it was coexpressed with Sema3F. NrCAM deletion in mice resulted in elevated spine densities on apical dendrites of star pyramidal cells at both postnatal and adult stages, and electron microscopy revealed increased numbers of asymmetric synapses in layer 4 of V1. Whole-cell recordings in cortical slices from NrCAM-null mice revealed increased frequency of mEPSCs in star pyramidal neurons. Recombinant Sema3F-Fc protein induced spine retraction on apical dendrites of wild-type, but not NrCAM-null cortical neurons in culture, while re-expression of NrCAM rescued the spine retraction response. NrCAM formed a complex in brain with Sema3F receptor subunits Neuropilin-2 (Npn-2) and PlexinA3 (PlexA3) through an Npn-2-binding sequence (TARNER) in the extracellular Ig1 domain. A trans heterozygous genetic interaction test demonstrated that Sema3F and NrCAM pathways interacted in vivo to regulate spine density in star pyramidal neurons. These findings reveal NrCAM as a novel postnatal regulator of dendritic spine density in cortical pyramidal neurons, and an integral component of the Sema3F receptor complex. The results implicate NrCAM as a contributor to excitatory/inhibitory balance in neocortical circuits.
Collapse
|
17
|
Neural cell adhesion molecule NrCAM is expressed in the mammalian inner ear and modulates spiral ganglion neurite outgrowth in an in vitro alternate choice assay. J Mol Neurosci 2014; 55:836-44. [PMID: 25407819 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-014-0436-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2014] [Accepted: 09/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neuron-glial-related cell adhesion molecule (NrCAM) is a neuronal cell adhesion molecule involved in neuron-neuron and neuron-glial adhesion as well as directional signaling during axonal cone growth. NrCAM has been shown to be involved in several cellular processes in the central and peripheral nervous systems, including neurite outgrowth, axonal pathfinding and myelination, fasciculation of nerve fibers, and cell migration. This includes sensory systems such as the eye and olfactory system. However, there are no reports on the expression/function of NrCAM in the auditory system. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the occurrence of NrCAM in the mammalian cochlea and its role in innervation of the auditory end organ. Our work indicates that NrCAM is highly expressed in the developing mammalian cochlea (position consistent with innervation). Moreover, we found that NrCAM, presented in stripe micropatterns, provide directional cues to neonatal rat inner ear spiral ganglion neurites in vitro. Our results are consistent with a role for NrCAM in the pathfinding of spiral ganglion dendrites toward their hair cell targets in the sensory epithelium.
Collapse
|
18
|
Chen B, Brinkmann K, Chen Z, Pak CW, Liao Y, Shi S, Henry L, Grishin NV, Bogdan S, Rosen MK. The WAVE regulatory complex links diverse receptors to the actin cytoskeleton. Cell 2014; 156:195-207. [PMID: 24439376 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2013.11.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2013] [Revised: 09/06/2013] [Accepted: 11/25/2013] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The WAVE regulatory complex (WRC) controls actin cytoskeletal dynamics throughout the cell by stimulating the actin-nucleating activity of the Arp2/3 complex at distinct membrane sites. However, the factors that recruit the WRC to specific locations remain poorly understood. Here, we have identified a large family of potential WRC ligands, consisting of ∼120 diverse membrane proteins, including protocadherins, ROBOs, netrin receptors, neuroligins, GPCRs, and channels. Structural, biochemical, and cellular studies reveal that a sequence motif that defines these ligands binds to a highly conserved interaction surface of the WRC formed by the Sra and Abi subunits. Mutating this binding surface in flies resulted in defects in actin cytoskeletal organization and egg morphology during oogenesis, leading to female sterility. Our findings directly link diverse membrane proteins to the WRC and actin cytoskeleton and have broad physiological and pathological ramifications in metazoans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baoyu Chen
- Department of Biophysics and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Klaus Brinkmann
- Institut für Neurobiologie, Universität Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Zhucheng Chen
- Department of Biophysics and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Chi W Pak
- Department of Biophysics and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Yuxing Liao
- Department of Biophysics and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Shuoyong Shi
- Department of Biophysics and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Lisa Henry
- Department of Biophysics and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Nick V Grishin
- Department of Biophysics and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Sven Bogdan
- Institut für Neurobiologie, Universität Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.
| | - Michael K Rosen
- Department of Biophysics and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Nagaraj K, Mualla R, Hortsch M. The L1 Family of Cell Adhesion Molecules: A Sickening Number of Mutations and Protein Functions. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2014; 8:195-229. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-8090-7_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
|
20
|
Eisinger BE, Saul MC, Driessen TM, Gammie SC. Development of a versatile enrichment analysis tool reveals associations between the maternal brain and mental health disorders, including autism. BMC Neurosci 2013; 14:147. [PMID: 24245670 PMCID: PMC3840590 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-14-147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Accepted: 11/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A recent study of lateral septum (LS) suggested a large number of autism-related genes with altered expression in the postpartum state. However, formally testing the findings for enrichment of autism-associated genes proved to be problematic with existing software. Many gene-disease association databases have been curated which are not currently incorporated in popular, full-featured enrichment tools, and the use of custom gene lists in these programs can be difficult to perform and interpret. As a simple alternative, we have developed the Modular Single-set Enrichment Test (MSET), a minimal tool that enables one to easily evaluate expression data for enrichment of any conceivable gene list of interest. Results The MSET approach was validated by testing several publicly available expression data sets for expected enrichment in areas of autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and arthritis. Using nine independent, unique autism gene lists extracted from association databases and two recent publications, a striking consensus of enrichment was detected within gene expression changes in LS of postpartum mice. A network of 160 autism-related genes was identified, representing developmental processes such as synaptic plasticity, neuronal morphogenesis, and differentiation. Additionally, maternal LS displayed enrichment for genes associated with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and depression. Conclusions The transition to motherhood includes the most fundamental social bonding event in mammals and features naturally occurring changes in sociability. Some individuals with autism, schizophrenia, or other mental health disorders exhibit impaired social traits. Genes involved in these deficits may also contribute to elevated sociability in the maternal brain. To date, this is the first study to show a significant, quantitative link between the maternal brain and mental health disorders using large scale gene expression data. Thus, the postpartum brain may provide a novel and promising platform for understanding the complex genetics of improved sociability that may have direct relevance for multiple psychiatric illnesses. This study also provides an important new tool that fills a critical analysis gap and makes evaluation of enrichment using any database of interest possible with an emphasis on ease of use and methodological transparency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian E Eisinger
- Department of Zoology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Dai J, Buhusi M, Demyanenko GP, Brennaman LH, Hruska M, Dalva MB, Maness PF. Neuron glia-related cell adhesion molecule (NrCAM) promotes topographic retinocollicular mapping. PLoS One 2013; 8:e73000. [PMID: 24023801 PMCID: PMC3759449 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0073000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2013] [Accepted: 07/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
NrCAM (Neuron-glial related cell adhesion molecule), a member of the L1 family of cell adhesion molecules, reversibly binds ankyrin and regulates axon growth, but it has not been studied for a role in retinotopic mapping. During development of retino-collicular topography, NrCAM was expressed uniformly in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) along both mediolateral and anteroposterior retinal axes, and was localized on RGC axons within the optic tract and superior colliculus (SC). Anterograde tracing of RGC axons in NrCAM null mutant mice at P10, when the map resembles its mature form, revealed laterally displaced ectopic termination zones (eTZs) of axons from the temporal retina, indicating defective mediolateral topography, which is governed by ephrinB/EphBs. Axon tracing at P2 revealed that interstitial branch orientation of ventral-temporal RGC axons in NrCAM null mice was compromised in the medial direction, likely accounting for displacement of eTZs. A similar retinocollicular targeting defect in EphB mutant mice suggested that NrCAM and EphB interact to regulate mediolateral retino-collicular targeting. We found that EphB2 tyrosine kinase but not an EphB2 kinase dead mutant, phosphorylated NrCAM at a conserved tyrosine residue in the FIGQY ankyrin binding motif, perturbing ankyrin recruitment in NrCAM transfected HEK293 cells. Furthermore, the phosphorylation of NrCAM at FIGQY in SC was decreased in EphB1/3 and EphB1/2/3 null mice compared to WT, while phospho-FIGQY of NrCAM in SC was increased in EphB2 constitutively active (F620D/F620D) mice. These results demonstrate that NrCAM contributes to mediolateral retinocollicular axon targeting by regulating RGC branch orientation through a likely mechanism in which ephrinB/EphB phosphorylates NrCAM to modulate linkage to the actin cytoskeleton.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinxia Dai
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Mona Buhusi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Galina P. Demyanenko
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Leann H. Brennaman
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Martin Hruska
- Thomas Jefferson University, Department of Neuroscience, Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Matthew B. Dalva
- Thomas Jefferson University, Department of Neuroscience, Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Patricia F. Maness
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Shastry BS. Recent Advances in the Genetics of Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Minireview. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1179/096979505799103704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
|
23
|
Jolly LA, Homan CC, Jacob R, Barry S, Gecz J. The UPF3B gene, implicated in intellectual disability, autism, ADHD and childhood onset schizophrenia regulates neural progenitor cell behaviour and neuronal outgrowth. Hum Mol Genet 2013; 22:4673-87. [PMID: 23821644 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddt315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss-of-function mutations in UPF3B result in variable clinical presentations including intellectual disability (ID, syndromic and non-syndromic), autism, childhood onset schizophrenia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. UPF3B is a core member of the nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) pathway that functions to rapidly degrade transcripts with premature termination codons (PTCs). Traditionally identified in thousands of human diseases, PTCs were recently also found to be part of 'normal' genetic variation in human populations. Furthermore, many human transcripts have naturally occurring regulatory features compatible with 'endogenous' PTCs strongly suggesting roles of NMD beyond PTC mRNA control. In this study, we investigated the role of Upf3b and NMD in neural cells. We provide evidence that suggests Upf3b-dependent NMD (Upf3b-NMD) is regulated at multiple levels during development including regulation of expression and sub-cellular localization of Upf3b. Furthermore, complementary expression of Upf3b, Upf3a and Stau1 stratify the developing dorsal telencephalon, suggesting that alternative NMD, and the related Staufen1-mediated mRNA decay (SMD) pathways are differentially employed. A loss of Upf3b-NMD in neural progenitor cells (NPCs) resulted in the expansion of cell numbers at the expense of their differentiation. In primary hippocampal neurons, loss of Upf3b-NMD resulted in subtle neurite growth effects. Our data suggest that the cellular consequences of loss of Upf3b-NMD can be explained in-part by changes in expression of key NMD-feature containing transcripts, which are commonly deregulated also in patients with UPF3B mutations. Our research identifies novel pathological mechanisms of UPF3B mutations and at least partly explains the clinical phenotype of UPF3B patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan A Jolly
- Department of Genetic and Molecular Pathology, SA Pathology, North Adelaide 5006, Australia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Chen CP, Chang SJ, Chern SR, Wu PS, Chen YT, Su JW, Chen WL, Wang W. Prenatal diagnosis and molecular cytogenetic characterization of a de novo interstitial deletion of 7q (7q22.1→q31.1). Gene 2013; 521:311-5. [PMID: 23545313 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2013.03.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2012] [Revised: 02/19/2013] [Accepted: 03/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We present prenatal diagnosis and molecular cytogenetic characterization of de novo interstitial deletion of 7q (7q22.1→q31.1) by aCGH, FISH and QF-PCR in a fetus with an abnormal maternal serum screening result and ultrasound findings of facial cleft and hypogenitalism. We discuss the genotype-phenotype correlation and the consequence of haploinsufficiency of ZKSCAN5, ARPC1A, CYP3A43, RELN, LAMB1, IMMP2L and DOCK4 in this case.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Ping Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Freitag CM, Asherson P, Hebebrand J. Behavioural genetics of childhood disorders. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2012; 12:395-428. [PMID: 22382729 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2011_178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
After a general introduction into genetic risk factors for child psychiatric disorders, four specific child psychiatric disorders with a strong genetic component, namely, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder, Nocturnal Enuresis, and obesity, are discussed in detail. Recent evidence of linkage, candidate gene, and genome-wide association studies are presented. This chapter ends with a prospectus on further research needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Freitag
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main, Deutschordenstraße 50, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany,
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Genetics and Epigenetics of Autism Spectrum Disorders. RESEARCH AND PERSPECTIVES IN NEUROSCIENCES 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-27913-3_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
|
27
|
Sakurai T. The role of NrCAM in neural development and disorders--beyond a simple glue in the brain. Mol Cell Neurosci 2011; 49:351-63. [PMID: 22182708 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2011.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2011] [Revised: 11/03/2011] [Accepted: 12/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
NrCAM is a neuronal cell adhesion molecule of the L1 family of immunoglobulin super family. It plays a wide variety of roles in neural development, including cell proliferation and differentiation, axon growth and guidance, synapse formation, and the formation of the myelinated nerve structure. NrCAM functions in cell adhesion and modulates signaling pathways in neural development through multiple molecular interactions with guidance and other factors. Alterations in NrCAM structure/expression are associated with psychiatric disorders such as autism and drug addiction and with tumor progression. The mechanisms of NrCAM participation in development and how these might be perturbed in disorders are reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Sakurai
- Medical Innovation Center, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Okamoto N, Hatsukawa Y, Shimojima K, Yamamoto T. Submicroscopic deletion in 7q31 encompassing CADPS2 and TSPAN12 in a child with autism spectrum disorder and PHPV. Am J Med Genet A 2011; 155A:1568-73. [PMID: 21626674 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.34028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2010] [Accepted: 03/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
We performed array comparative genomic hybridization utilizing a whole genome oligonucleotide microarray in a patient with the autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV). Submicroscopic deletions in 7q31 encompassing CADPS2 (Ca(2+) -dependent activator protein for secretion 2) and TSPAN12 (one of the members of the tetraspanin superfamily) were confirmed. The CADPS2 plays important roles in the release of neurotrophin-3 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Mutations in TSPAN12 are a relatively frequent cause of familial exudative vitreoretinopathy. We speculate that haploinsufficiency of CADPS2 and TSPAN12 contributes to ASDs and PHPV, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nobuhiko Okamoto
- Department of Medical Genetics, Osaka Medical Center, Research Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Japan.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
French L, Pavlidis P. Relationships between gene expression and brain wiring in the adult rodent brain. PLoS Comput Biol 2011; 7:e1001049. [PMID: 21253556 PMCID: PMC3017102 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1001049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2010] [Accepted: 12/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We studied the global relationship between gene expression and neuroanatomical connectivity in the adult rodent brain. We utilized a large data set of the rat brain “connectome” from the Brain Architecture Management System (942 brain regions and over 5000 connections) and used statistical approaches to relate the data to the gene expression signatures of 17,530 genes in 142 anatomical regions from the Allen Brain Atlas. Our analysis shows that adult gene expression signatures have a statistically significant relationship to connectivity. In particular, brain regions that have similar expression profiles tend to have similar connectivity profiles, and this effect is not entirely attributable to spatial correlations. In addition, brain regions which are connected have more similar expression patterns. Using a simple optimization approach, we identified a set of genes most correlated with neuroanatomical connectivity, and find that this set is enriched for genes involved in neuronal development and axon guidance. A number of the genes have been implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autistic spectrum disorder. Our results have the potential to shed light on the role of gene expression patterns in influencing neuronal activity and connectivity, with potential applications to our understanding of brain disorders. Supplementary data are available at http://www.chibi.ubc.ca/ABAMS. We tested the idea that the “wiring diagram” of the adult brain has a relationship with where genes are expressed. We were inspired by similar work carried out by groups examining the nematode worm Caenorhabditis elegans. By using large-scale databases of brain connectivity and gene expression in rodents, we found that many genes involved in the development of the brain show correlations with anatomical connectivity patterns. Some of the genes we found have been implicated in disorders such as autism, which is suspected to affect brain wiring. While the biological causes of the patterns we found are not yet known, we believe they provide new insight into the patterns of gene expression in the brain and will spur further study of this problem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leon French
- Bioinformatics Graduate Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Centre for High-Throughput Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Paul Pavlidis
- Centre for High-Throughput Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Maestrini E, Pagnamenta AT, Lamb JA, Bacchelli E, Sykes NH, Sousa I, Toma C, Barnby G, Butler H, Winchester L, Scerri TS, Minopoli F, Reichert J, Cai G, Buxbaum JD, Korvatska O, Schellenberg GD, Dawson G, Bildt AD, Minderaa RB, Mulder EJ, Morris AP, Bailey AJ, Monaco AP. High-density SNP association study and copy number variation analysis of the AUTS1 and AUTS5 loci implicate the IMMP2L-DOCK4 gene region in autism susceptibility. Mol Psychiatry 2010; 15:954-68. [PMID: 19401682 PMCID: PMC2934739 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2009.34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2008] [Revised: 02/19/2009] [Accepted: 04/02/2009] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders are a group of highly heritable neurodevelopmental disorders with a complex genetic etiology. The International Molecular Genetic Study of Autism Consortium previously identified linkage loci on chromosomes 7 and 2, termed AUTS1 and AUTS5, respectively. In this study, we performed a high-density association analysis in AUTS1 and AUTS5, testing more than 3000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in all known genes in each region, as well as SNPs in non-genic highly conserved sequences. SNP genotype data were also used to investigate copy number variation within these regions. The study sample consisted of 127 and 126 families, showing linkage to the AUTS1 and AUTS5 regions, respectively, and 188 gender-matched controls. Further investigation of the strongest association results was conducted in an independent European family sample containing 390 affected individuals. Association and copy number variant analysis highlighted several genes that warrant further investigation, including IMMP2L and DOCK4 on chromosome 7. Evidence for the involvement of DOCK4 in autism susceptibility was supported by independent replication of association at rs2217262 and the finding of a deletion segregating in a sib-pair family.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Maestrini
- Department of Biology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - A T Pagnamenta
- The Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - J A Lamb
- The Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Integrated Genomic Medical Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - E Bacchelli
- Department of Biology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - N H Sykes
- The Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - I Sousa
- The Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - C Toma
- Department of Biology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - G Barnby
- The Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - H Butler
- The Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - L Winchester
- The Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - T S Scerri
- The Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - F Minopoli
- Department of Biology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - J Reichert
- Department of Psychiatry, Seaver Autism Research Center, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - G Cai
- Department of Psychiatry, Seaver Autism Research Center, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - J D Buxbaum
- Department of Psychiatry, Seaver Autism Research Center, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - O Korvatska
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Centre, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle Division, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - G D Schellenberg
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - G Dawson
- Autism Speaks, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - A de Bildt
- Department of Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - R B Minderaa
- Department of Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - E J Mulder
- Department of Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - A P Morris
- The Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - A J Bailey
- University Department of Psychiatry, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - A P Monaco
- The Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - IMGSAC12
- Department of Biology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- The Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Integrated Genomic Medical Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Department of Psychiatry, Seaver Autism Research Center, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Centre, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle Division, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Autism Speaks, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- University Department of Psychiatry, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Key role for gene dosage and synaptic homeostasis in autism spectrum disorders. Trends Genet 2010; 26:363-72. [PMID: 20609491 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2010.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 228] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2009] [Revised: 05/26/2010] [Accepted: 05/26/2010] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are characterized by impairments in reciprocal social communication, and repetitive, stereotyped verbal and non-verbal behaviors. Genetic studies have provided a relatively large number of genes that constitute a comprehensive framework to better understand this complex and heterogeneous syndrome. Based on the most robust findings, three observations can be made. First, genetic contributions to ASD are highly heterogeneous and most probably involve a combination of alleles with low and high penetrance. Second, the majority of the mutations apparently affect a single allele, suggesting a key role for gene dosage in susceptibility to ASD. Finally, the broad expression and function of the causative genes suggest that alteration of synaptic homeostasis could be a common biological process associated with ASD. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate synaptic homeostasis should shed new light on the causes of ASD and could provide a means to modulate the severity of the symptoms.
Collapse
|
32
|
Docherty SJ, Davis OSP, Kovas Y, Meaburn EL, Dale PS, Petrill SA, Schalkwyk LC, Plomin R. A genome-wide association study identifies multiple loci associated with mathematics ability and disability. GENES, BRAIN, AND BEHAVIOR 2010; 9:234-47. [PMID: 20039944 PMCID: PMC2855870 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-183x.2009.00553.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2009] [Revised: 09/08/2009] [Accepted: 11/02/2009] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Numeracy is as important as literacy and exhibits a similar frequency of disability. Although its etiology is relatively poorly understood, quantitative genetic research has demonstrated mathematical ability to be moderately heritable. In this first genome-wide association study (GWAS) of mathematical ability and disability, 10 out of 43 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) associations nominated from two high- vs. low-ability (n = 600 10-year-olds each) scans of pooled DNA were validated (P < 0.05) in an individually genotyped sample of (*)2356 individuals spanning the entire distribution of mathematical ability, as assessed by teacher reports and online tests. Although the effects are of the modest sizes now expected for complex traits and require further replication, interesting candidate genes are implicated such as NRCAM which encodes a neuronal cell adhesion molecule. When combined into a set, the 10 SNPs account for 2.9% (F = 56.85; df = 1 and 1881; P = 7.277e-14) of the phenotypic variance. The association is linear across the distribution consistent with a quantitative trait locus (QTL) hypothesis; the third of children in our sample who harbour 10 or more of the 20 risk alleles identified are nearly twice as likely (OR = 1.96; df = 1; P = 3.696e-07) to be in the lowest performing 15% of the distribution. Our results correspond with those of quantitative genetic research in indicating that mathematical ability and disability are influenced by many genes generating small effects across the entire spectrum of ability, implying that more highly powered studies will be needed to detect and replicate these QTL associations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S J Docherty
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, UK.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Cukier HN, Skaar DA, Rayner-Evans MY, Konidari I, Whitehead PL, Jaworski JM, Cuccaro ML, Pericak-Vance MA, Gilbert JR. Identification of chromosome 7 inversion breakpoints in an autistic family narrows candidate region for autism susceptibility. Autism Res 2010; 2:258-66. [PMID: 19877165 DOI: 10.1002/aur.96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Chromosomal breaks and rearrangements have been observed in conjunction with autism and autistic spectrum disorders. A chromosomal inversion has been previously reported in autistic siblings, spanning the region from approximately 7q22.1 to 7q31. This family is distinguished by having multiple individuals with autism and associated disabilities. The region containing the inversion has been strongly implicated in autism by multiple linkage studies, and has been particularly associated with language defects in autism as well as in other disorders with language components. Mapping of the inversion breakpoints by FISH has localized the inversion to the region spanning approximately 99-108.75 Mb of chromosome 7. The proximal breakpoint has the potential to disrupt either the coding sequence or regulatory regions of a number of cytochrome P450 genes while the distal region falls in a relative gene desert. Copy number variant analysis of the breakpoint regions detected no duplication or deletion that could clearly be associated with disease status. Association analysis in our autism data set using single nucleotide polymorphisms located near the breakpoints showed no significant association with proximal breakpoint markers, but has identified markers near the distal breakpoint ( approximately 108-110 Mb) with significant associations to autism. The chromosomal abnormality in this family strengthens the case for an autism susceptibility gene in the chromosome 7q22-31 region and targets a candidate region for further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Holly N Cukier
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
A complex chromosome 7q rearrangement identified in a patient with mental retardation, anxiety disorder, and autistic features. Am J Med Genet A 2010; 152A:427-33. [DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.33203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
|
35
|
Genetics of autistic disorders: review and clinical implications. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2010; 19:169-78. [PMID: 19941018 PMCID: PMC2839494 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-009-0076-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2009] [Accepted: 10/30/2009] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Twin and family studies in autistic disorders (AD) have elucidated a high heritability of AD. In this literature review, we will present an overview on molecular genetic studies in AD and highlight the most recent findings of an increased rate of copy number variations in AD. An extensive literature search in the PubMed database was performed to obtain English published articles on genetic findings in autism. Results of linkage, (genome wide) association and cytogenetic studies are presented, and putative aetiopathological pathways are discussed. Implications of the different genetic findings for genetic counselling and genetic testing at present will be described. The article ends with a prospectus on future directions.
Collapse
|
36
|
Moy SS, Nonneman RJ, Young NB, Demyanenko GP, Maness PF. Impaired sociability and cognitive function in Nrcam-null mice. Behav Brain Res 2009; 205:123-31. [PMID: 19540269 PMCID: PMC2753746 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2009.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2009] [Revised: 05/12/2009] [Accepted: 06/10/2009] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
NRCAM (Neuronal Cell Adhesion Molecule) has an important role in axonal guidance and the organization of neural circuitry during brain development. Association analyses in human populations have identified NRCAM as a candidate gene for autism susceptibility. In the present study, we evaluated Nrcam-null mice for sociability, social novelty preference, and reversal learning as a model for the social deficits, repetitive behavior, and cognitive rigidity characteristic of autism. Prepulse inhibition of acoustic startle responses was also measured, to reflect sensorimotor-gating deficits in autism spectrum disorders. Assays for anxiety-like behavior in an elevated plus maze and open field, motor coordination, and olfactory ability in a buried food test were conducted to provide control measures for the interpretation of results. Overall, the loss of Nrcam led to behavioral alterations in sociability, acquisition of a spatial task, and reversal learning, dependent on sex. In comparison to male wild type mice, male Nrcam-null mutants had significantly decreased sociability in a three-chambered choice task. Low sociability in the male null mutants was not associated with changes in anxiety-like behavior, activity, or motor coordination. Male, but not female, Nrcam-null mice had small decreases in prepulse inhibition. Nrcam deficiency in female mice led to impaired acquisition of spatial learning in the Morris water maze task. Reversal learning deficits were observed in both male and female Nrcam-null mice. These results provide evidence that NRCAM mediates domains of function relevant to symptoms observed in autism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheryl S Moy
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders Research Center, CB#7146, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Betancur C, Sakurai T, Buxbaum JD. The emerging role of synaptic cell-adhesion pathways in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorders. Trends Neurosci 2009; 32:402-12. [PMID: 19541375 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2009.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 212] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2008] [Revised: 04/24/2009] [Accepted: 04/28/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in genetics and genomics have unveiled numerous cases of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) associated with rare, causal genetic variations. These findings support a novel view of ASDs in which many independent, individually rare genetic variants, each associated with a very high relative risk, together explain a large proportion of ASDs. Although these rare variants impact diverse pathways, there is accumulating evidence that synaptic pathways, including those involving synaptic cell adhesion, are disrupted in some subjects with ASD. These findings provide insights into the pathogenesis of ASDs and enable the development of model systems with construct validity for specific causes of ASDs. In several neurodevelopmental disorders frequently associated with ASD, including fragile X syndrome, Rett syndrome and tuberous sclerosis, animal models have led to the development of new therapeutic approaches, giving rise to optimism with other causes of ASDs.
Collapse
|
38
|
Abstract
The L1 family of CAMs (cell adhesion molecules) has long aroused the interest of researchers, but primarily the extracellular interactions of these proteins have been elucidated. More recently, attention has turned to the intracellular signalling potentiated by transmembrane proteins and the cytoplasmic proteins with which they can interact. The present review brings up to date the current body of published knowledge for the intracellular interactions of L1-CAM family proteins and the potential importance of these interactions for the mechanisms of L1-CAM action.
Collapse
|
39
|
Katidou M, Vidaki M, Strigini M, Karagogeos D. The immunoglobulin superfamily of neuronal cell adhesion molecules: lessons from animal models and correlation with human disease. Biotechnol J 2009; 3:1564-80. [PMID: 19072911 DOI: 10.1002/biot.200800281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Neuronal cell adhesion molecules of the immunoglobulin superfamily (IgCAMs) play a crucial role in the formation of neural circuits at different levels: cell migration, axonal and dendritic targeting as well as synapse formation. Furthermore, in perinatal and adult life, neuronal IgCAMs are required for the formation and maintenance of specialized axonal membrane domains, synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis. Mutations in the corresponding human genes have been correlated to several human neuronal disorders. Perturbing neuronal IgCAMs in animal models provides powerful means to understand the molecular and cellular basis of such human disorders. In this review, we concentrate on the NCAM, L1 and contactin subfamilies of neuronal IgCAMs summarizing recent functional studies from model systems and highlighting their links to disease pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Markella Katidou
- University of Crete, Faculty of Medicine, Vassilika Vouton, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Abstract
Autism is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder of early childhood. Genetic factors play an important role in the aetiology of the disorder. In this study, we considered the NRCAM gene as a candidate gene of autism. This gene is expressed in the central nervous system and located in the 7q region, a susceptibility locus of autism. We conducted a case-control study of 18 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the NRCAM gene for possible association with autism in 170 autistic patients and 214 normal controls in a Japanese population. Seven SNPs in the NRCAM gene were significantly associated with autism, among which rs2300045 indicated the most prominent result (p=0.0009 uncorrected, p=0.017 corrected). In haplotype analyses, several individual haplotypes, including a common NRCAM haplotype C-T-T-C-T-T-G-C for rs3763463, rs1859767, rs1034825, rs2300045, rs2300043, rs2300039, rs722519, and rs2216259, showed a significant association after Bonferroni correction (p=0.0035 uncorrected, p=0.028 corrected). These haplotypes were located in the 5' intron-2 region of the gene. In addition, we also assessed the above mentioned SNPs and haplotypes using the transmission disequilibrium test with 148 trios of autistic families. Haplotype G-T-T-T-T-C-G-C in the same eight SNPs was also associated with autism. In summary, our findings provide evidence for a significant association of NRCAM with autism. Considering the important role of the NRCAM gene in brain development, our results therefore indicated that the NRCAM gene is one of the strong candidate genes for autism.
Collapse
|
41
|
Jones JR, Skinner C, Friez MJ, Schwartz CE, Stevenson RE. Hypothesis: dysregulation of methylation of brain-expressed genes on the X chromosome and autism spectrum disorders. Am J Med Genet A 2008; 146A:2213-20. [PMID: 18698615 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.32396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The hypothesis is set forth that dysregulation of brain-expressed genes on the X chromosome constitutes the major predisposition to autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). This dysregulation, mediated by hypomethylation or hypermethylation of CpG sites within gene promoters, leads to overexpression or partial silencing of one or more brain-expressed genes, which in turn results in an unbalanced production of the proteins responsible for brain structure and function. This hypothesis accommodates the predominantly sporadic occurrence (95%), the male excess (4:1), and the usual absence of malformations or other syndromic manifestations in ASDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie R Jones
- Greenwood Genetic Center, Greenwood, South Carolina, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Abnormal axonal guidance and brain anatomy in mouse mutants for the cell recognition molecules close homolog of L1 and NgCAM-related cell adhesion molecule. Neuroscience 2008; 155:221-33. [PMID: 18588951 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2008.04.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2008] [Revised: 04/21/2008] [Accepted: 04/22/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Cell recognition molecules of the L1 family serve important functions in the developing and the mature nervous system. Mutations in genes encoding the L1 family members close homolog of L1 (CHL1) and NgCAM-related cell adhesion molecule (NrCAM) have been found to alter connectivity and morphology of several brain regions. In order to emphasize similarities and differences of these two structurally related molecules, null mutants for CHL1 and NrCAM were directly compared with respect to axonal guidance in the hippocampus and the olfactory bulb and the sizes of the ventricular system and the cerebellar vermis using a combined structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histological approach. The results demonstrate that the absence of CHL1 leads to aberrant hippocampal mossy fiber projections whereas in both mutants, CHL1 and NrCAM, the guidance of the olfactory nerve projections is disturbed. Both mutations also alter the size of the ventricular system and the vermis with a specific profile of changes and partially opposite effects in each of the mutants. CHL1/NrCAM double-mutant mice do not show any enhancement of the single mutant's phenotype but balance the opposing effects on the ventricular system. In summary, the results show that CHL1 and NrCAM both affect axonal guidance and the anatomy of the ventricular system and the cerebellar vermis but act differently on these processes.
Collapse
|
43
|
Campbell DB, D'Oronzio R, Garbett K, Ebert PJ, Mirnics K, Levitt P, Persico AM. Disruption of cerebral cortex MET signaling in autism spectrum disorder. Ann Neurol 2007; 62:243-50. [PMID: 17696172 DOI: 10.1002/ana.21180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Multiple genes contribute to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) susceptibility. One particularly promising candidate is the MET gene, which encodes a receptor tyrosine kinase that mediates hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) signaling in brain circuit formation, immune function, and gastrointestinal repair. The MET promoter variant rs1858830 allele "C" is strongly associated with ASD and results in reduced gene transcription. Here we examined expression levels of MET and members of the MET signaling pathway in postmortem cerebral cortex from ASD cases and healthy control subjects. METHODS Protein, total RNA, and DNA were extracted from postmortem temporal cortex gray matter samples (BA 41/42, 52, or 22) belonging to eight pairs of ASD cases and matched control subjects. MET protein expression was determined by Western blotting; messenger RNA expression of MET and other related transcripts was assayed by microarray and quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS MET protein levels were significantly decreased in ASD cases compared with control subjects. This was accompanied in ASD brains by increased messenger RNA expression for proteins involved in regulating MET signaling activity. Analyses of coexpression of MET and HGF demonstrated a positive correlation in control subjects that was disrupted in ASD cases. INTERPRETATION Altered expression of MET and related molecules suggests dysregulation of signaling that may contribute to altered circuit formation and function in ASD. The complement of genes that encode proteins involved in MET activation appears to undergo long-term compensatory changes in expression that may be a hallmark contribution to the pathophysiology of ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B Campbell
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Toma C, Rossi M, Sousa I, Blasi F, Bacchelli E, Alen R, Vanhala R, Monaco AP, Järvelä I, Maestrini E. Is ASMT a susceptibility gene for autism spectrum disorders? A replication study in European populations. Mol Psychiatry 2007; 12:977-9. [PMID: 17957233 DOI: 10.1038/sj.mp.4002069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
|
45
|
Skuse DH. Rethinking the nature of genetic vulnerability to autistic spectrum disorders. Trends Genet 2007; 23:387-95. [PMID: 17630015 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2007.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2007] [Revised: 05/24/2007] [Accepted: 06/22/2007] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Autism is a common and genetically heterogeneous disorder, with an estimated heritability of >90%. Its specific underlying causes are largely unknown. Here, I propose that low levels of autistic vulnerability, reflected in social-cognitive processing differences, do not necessarily manifest in a behavioural phenotype but are usually compensated for during development. They are more likely to lead to a recognizable syndrome among individuals of low intelligence, who are male or have independent neurodevelopmental vulnerability owing to a wide range of gene mutations, chromosomal anomalies or environmental insults. Consequently, the apparent association between mental retardation and autistic syndromes is not because they usually have common causes, but rather because the presence of both features greatly increases the probability of clinical ascertainment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David H Skuse
- Behavioural and Brain Sciences Unit, Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Abstract
Twin and family studies in autistic disorders (AD) have elucidated a high heritability of the narrow and broad phenotype of AD. In this review on the genetics of AD, we will initially delineate the phenotype of AD and discuss aspects of differential diagnosis, which are particularly relevant with regard to the genetics of autism. Cytogenetic and molecular genetic studies will be presented in detail, and the possibly involved aetiopathological pathways will be described. Implications of the different genetic findings for genetic counselling will be mentioned.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C M Freitag
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Yang MS, Gill M. A review of gene linkage, association and expression studies in autism and an assessment of convergent evidence. Int J Dev Neurosci 2006; 25:69-85. [PMID: 17236739 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2006.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2006] [Revised: 12/05/2006] [Accepted: 12/06/2006] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder with high heritability and a likely complex genetic architecture. Much genetic evidence has accumulated in the last 20 years but no gene has been unequivocally identified as containing risk variants for autism. In this article we review the past and present literature on neuro-pathological, genetic linkage, genetic association, and gene expression studies in this disorder. We sought convergent evidence to support particular genes or chromosomal regions that might be likely to contain risk DNA variants. The convergent evidence from these studies supports the current hypotheses that there are multiple genetic loci predisposing to autism, and that genes involved in neurodevelopment are especially important for future genetic studies. Convergent evidence suggests the chromosome regions 7q21.2-q36.2, 16p12.1-p13.3, 6q14.3-q23.2, 2q24.1-q33.1, 17q11.1-q21.2, 1q21-q44 and 3q21.3-q29, are likely to contain risk genes for autism. Taken together with results from neuro-pathological studies, genes involved in brain development located at the above regions should be prioritized for future genetic research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mao Sheng Yang
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, St. James's Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland.
| | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Sakurai T, Ramoz N, Reichert JG, Corwin TE, Kryzak L, Smith CJ, Silverman JM, Hollander E, Buxbaum JD. Association analysis of the NrCAM gene in autism and in subsets of families with severe obsessive–compulsive or self-stimulatory behaviors. Psychiatr Genet 2006; 16:251-7. [PMID: 17106428 DOI: 10.1097/01.ypg.0000242196.81891.c9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES An autism susceptibility locus (AUTS1, MIM#608636) has been identified in chromosome 7q31. NrCAM is a candidate gene for AUTS1 because it is expressed in the brain and encodes a receptor involved in nervous system development. Polymorphisms in NrCAM have been reported to be associated with autism susceptibility and with substance abuse, implicating NrCAM in reward circuitry. Self-stimulatory, perseverative behavior in autism might be due to defects in reward circuitry. In addition, models of drug addiction have also borrowed from models of obsessive-compulsive behavior designed to reduce anxiety. Thus, our goals were to replicate previous associations of NrCAM with autism, making use of a large cohort, and to clarify whether NrCAM was associated with a specific endophenotype of autism in the repetitive behaviors and stereotyped interests domains. METHODS We genotyped six NrCAM single nucleotide polymorphisms in 352 families and we tested for association between these polymorphisms and autism in the entire cohort and in two subsets, one with severe obsessive-compulsive behaviors and one with pronounced self-stimulatory behaviors. RESULTS We found no association between single nucleotide polymorphisms of NrCAM and autism in our large cohort, or in the severe obsessive-compulsive behavior and self-stimulatory behavior subsets. However, we observed a significant overtransmission (21 transmitted vs 6 nontransmitted, chi2=12.054, P=0.0005) of the haplotype G-G-A-G-C-A of rs722519-rs1269622-rs405945-rs6958498-rs401433-rs439587 in the severe obsessive-compulsive behavior subset, likely driven by the G-C haplotype of rs6958498-rs401433, which itself showed significant overtransmission (31 transmitted vs 13 nontransmitted, chi2=8.844, P=0.003). CONCLUSIONS Overtransmission of particular haplotypes of NrCAM, that may relate to the expression level of NrCAM in the brain, appeared to be associated with autism in the severe obsessive-compulsive behavior subset.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Sakurai
- Departments of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York 10029, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Petek E, Schwarzbraun T, Noor A, Patel M, Nakabayashi K, Choufani S, Windpassinger C, Stamenkovic M, Robertson MM, Aschauer HN, Gurling HMD, Kroisel PM, Wagner K, Scherer SW, Vincent JB. Molecular and genomic studies of IMMP2L and mutation screening in autism and Tourette syndrome. Mol Genet Genomics 2006; 277:71-81. [PMID: 17043892 DOI: 10.1007/s00438-006-0173-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2005] [Accepted: 09/18/2006] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We recently reported the disruption of the inner mitochondrial membrane peptidase 2-like (IMMP2L) gene by a chromosomal breakpoint in a patient with Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS). In the present study we sought to identify genetic variation in IMMP2L, which, through alteration of protein function or level of expression might contribute to the manifestation of GTS. We screened 39 GTS patients, and, due to the localization of IMMP2L in the critical region for the autistic disorder (AD) locus on chromosome 7q (AUTS1), 95 multiplex AD families; however, no coding mutations were found in either GTS or AD patients. In addition, no parental-specific expression of IMMP2L was detected in somatic cell hybrids containing human chromosome 7 and human cell lines carrying a maternal uniparental disomy for chromosome 7 (mUPD7). Despite the fact that no deleterious mutations in IMMPL2 (other than the inverted duplication identified previously) were identified in either GTS or AD, this gene cannot be excluded as a possible rare cause of either disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erwin Petek
- Institute of Medical Biology and Human Genetics, Medical University of Graz, Harrachgasse 21/8, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Abstract
Classical genetic studies document strong complex genetic contributions to abuse of multiple addictive substances, to mnemonic processes that are likely to include those involved in substance dependence, and to the volumes of brain gray matter in regions that are likely to contribute to mnemonic/cognitive and to addictive processes. The working idea that these three heritable phenotypes are likely to share some of the same complex genetic underpinnings is presented. This review contains association-based molecular genetic studies of addiction that largely derive from my laboratory and their fit with linkage data from other laboratories. These combined results now identify many of the loci and genes that contain allelic variants that are likely to provide the heritable components of human addiction vulnerability. These data are also likely to have broad implications for neurotherapeutics. Drugs with potential abuse liabilities are widely used for indications that include pain, anxiety, sleep, seizure, and attentional disorders. There is increasing nonmedical use of these prescribed substances. Increasing information about addiction vulnerability gene variants should help to improve management of risks of dependence in individuals who receive such therapeutics. In addition, since mnemonic components that correlate well with individual differences in brain regional volumes are likely to play major roles in addiction processes, many addiction vulnerability genes are also good candidates to contribute to individual differences in mnemonic processes. Recently elucidation of addiction-associated haplotypes for the "cell adhesion" NrCAM gene illustrate several of these points.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George R Uhl
- Molecular Neurobiology Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse-Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
| |
Collapse
|