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Maussion G, Rocha C, Ramoz N. iPSC-derived models for anorexia nervosa research. Trends Mol Med 2024; 30:339-349. [PMID: 38472034 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2024.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder with genetic and epigenetic components that results in reduced food intake combined with alterations in the reward-processing network. While studies of patient cohorts and mouse models have uncovered genes and epigenetic changes associated with the disease, neuronal networks and brain areas preferentially activated and metabolic changes associated with reduced food intake, the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms remain unknown. The use of both 2D in vitro cultures and 3D models, namely organoids and spheroids, derived from either human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) or induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), would allow identification of cell type-specific changes associated with AN and comorbid diseases, to study preferential connections between brain areas and organs, and the development of therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilles Maussion
- The Neuro's Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada.
| | - Cecilia Rocha
- The Neuro's Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Nicolas Ramoz
- Université Paris Cité, Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Paris (IPNP), INSERM U1266, Paris 75014, France; GHU Paris Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, CMME, Hôpital Sainte-Anne, Paris F-75014, France
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2
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Calame DG, Emrick LT. Functional genomics and small molecules in mitochondrial neurodevelopmental disorders. Neurotherapeutics 2024; 21:e00316. [PMID: 38244259 PMCID: PMC10903096 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurot.2024.e00316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are critical for brain development and homeostasis. Therefore, pathogenic variation in the mitochondrial or nuclear genome which disrupts mitochondrial function frequently results in developmental disorders and neurodegeneration at the organismal level. Large-scale application of genome-wide technologies to individuals with mitochondrial diseases has dramatically accelerated identification of mitochondrial disease-gene associations in humans. Multi-omic and high-throughput studies involving transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and saturation genome editing are providing deeper insights into the functional consequence of mitochondrial genomic variation. Integration of deep phenotypic and genomic data through allelic series continues to uncover novel mitochondrial functions and permit mitochondrial gene function dissection on an unprecedented scale. Finally, mitochondrial disease-gene associations illuminate disease mechanisms and thereby direct therapeutic strategies involving small molecules and RNA-DNA therapeutics. This review summarizes progress in functional genomics and small molecule therapeutics in mitochondrial neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Calame
- Section of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Neuroscience, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Lisa T Emrick
- Section of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Neuroscience, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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3
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Marzoog BA. Transcription Factors in Brain Regeneration: A Potential Novel Therapeutic Target. Curr Drug Targets 2024; 25:46-61. [PMID: 38444255 DOI: 10.2174/0113894501279977231210170231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Transcription factors play a crucial role in providing identity to each cell population. To maintain cell identity, it is essential to balance the expression of activator and inhibitor transcription factors. Cell plasticity and reprogramming offer great potential for future therapeutic applications, as they can regenerate damaged tissue. Specific niche factors can modify gene expression and differentiate or transdifferentiate the target cell to the required fate. Ongoing research is being carried out on the possibilities of transcription factors in regenerating neurons, with neural stem cells (NSCs) being considered the preferred cells for generating new neurons due to their epigenomic and transcriptome memory. NEUROD1/ASCL1, BRN2, MYTL1, and other transcription factors can induce direct reprogramming of somatic cells, such as fibroblasts, into neurons. However, the molecular biology of transcription factors in reprogramming and differentiation still needs to be fully understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basheer Abdullah Marzoog
- World-Class Research Center, Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare», I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
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4
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Rodriguez-Jimenez FJ, Ureña-Peralta J, Jendelova P, Erceg S. Alzheimer's disease and synapse Loss: What can we learn from induced pluripotent stem Cells? J Adv Res 2023; 54:105-118. [PMID: 36646419 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2023.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synaptic dysfunction is a major contributor to Alzheimeŕs disease (AD) pathogenesis in addition to the formation of neuritic β-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles of hyperphosphorylated Tau protein. However, how these features contribute to synaptic dysfunction and axonal loss remains unclear. While years of considerable effort have been devoted to gaining an improved understanding of this devastating disease, the unavailability of patient-derived tissues, considerable genetic heterogeneity, and lack of animal models that faithfully recapitulate human AD have hampered the development of effective treatment options. Ongoing progress in human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) technology has permitted the derivation of patient- and disease-specific stem cells with unlimited self-renewal capacity. These cells can differentiate into AD-affected cell types, which support studies of disease mechanisms, drug discovery, and the development of cell replacement therapies in traditional and advanced cell culture models. AIM OF REVIEW To summarize current hiPSC-based AD models, highlighting the associated achievements and challenges with a primary focus on neuron and synapse loss. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW We aim to identify how hiPSC models can contribute to understanding AD-associated synaptic dysfunction and axonal loss. hiPSC-derived neural cells, astrocytes, and microglia, as well as more sophisticated cellular organoids, may represent reliable models to investigate AD and identify early markers of AD-associated neural degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Javier Rodriguez-Jimenez
- Stem Cell Therapies in Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab., Centro de Investigación Principe Felipe (CIPF), c/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012 Valencia, Spain.
| | - Juan Ureña-Peralta
- Stem Cell Therapies in Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab., Centro de Investigación Principe Felipe (CIPF), c/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012 Valencia, Spain.
| | - Pavla Jendelova
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Neuroregeneration, Czech Academy of Science, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Slaven Erceg
- Stem Cell Therapies in Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab., Centro de Investigación Principe Felipe (CIPF), c/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012 Valencia, Spain; Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Neuroregeneration, Czech Academy of Science, Prague, Czech Republic; National Stem Cell Bank-Valencia Node, Centro de Investigacion Principe Felipe, c/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012 Valencia, Spain.
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5
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Schaukowitch K, Janas JA, Wernig M. Insights and applications of direct neuronal reprogramming. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2023; 83:102128. [PMID: 37862835 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2023.102128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Direct neuronal reprogramming converts somatic cells of a defined lineage into induced neuronal cells without going through a pluripotent intermediate. This approach not only provides access to the otherwise largely inaccessible cells of the brain for neuronal disease modeling, but also holds great promise for ultimately enabling neuronal cell replacement without the use of transplantation. To improve efficiency and specificity of direct neuronal reprogramming, much of the current efforts aim to understand the mechanisms that safeguard cell identities and how the reprogramming cells overcome the barriers resisting fate changes. Here, we review recent discoveries into the mechanisms by which the donor cell program is silenced, and new cell identities are established. We also discuss advancements that have been made toward fine-tuning the output of these reprogramming systems to generate specific types of neuronal cells. Finally, we highlight the benefit of using direct neuronal reprogramming to study age-related disorders and the potential of in vivo direct reprogramming in regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Schaukowitch
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Justyna A Janas
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Marius Wernig
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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6
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Arai K, Saito F, Miyazaki M, Kushige H, Izu Y, Maeta N, Yamazoe K. Small Molecules Temporarily Induce Neuronal Features in Adult Canine Dermal Fibroblasts. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15804. [PMID: 37958789 PMCID: PMC10648228 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Several methods have been developed to generate neurons from other cell types for performing regeneration therapy and in vitro studies of central nerve disease. Small molecules (SMs) can efficiently induce neuronal features in human and rodent fibroblasts without transgenes. Although canines have been used as a spontaneous disease model of human central nerve, efficient neuronal reprogramming method of canine cells have not been well established. We aimed to induce neuronal features in adult canine dermal fibroblasts (ACDFs) by SMs and assess the permanency of these changes. ACDFs treated with eight SMs developed a round-shaped cell body with branching processes and expressed neuronal proteins, including βIII-tubulin, microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2), and neurofilament-medium. Transcriptome profiling revealed the upregulation of neuron-related genes, such as SNAP25 and GRIA4, and downregulation of fibroblast-related genes, such as COL12A1 and CCN5. Calcium fluorescent imaging demonstrated an increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration upon stimulation with glutamate and KCl. Although neuronal features were induced similarly in basement membrane extract droplet culture, they diminished after culturing without SMs or in vivo transplantation into an injured spinal cord. In conclusion, SMs temporarily induce neuronal features in ACDFs. However, the analysis of bottlenecks in the neuronal induction is crucial for optimizing the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyotaka Arai
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, 1-3 Ikoi-no-oka, Imabari 794-8555, Japan; (M.M.); (H.K.); (N.M.); (K.Y.)
| | - Fumiyo Saito
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, 1-3 Ikoi-no-oka, Imabari 794-8555, Japan;
| | - Masashi Miyazaki
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, 1-3 Ikoi-no-oka, Imabari 794-8555, Japan; (M.M.); (H.K.); (N.M.); (K.Y.)
| | - Haruto Kushige
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, 1-3 Ikoi-no-oka, Imabari 794-8555, Japan; (M.M.); (H.K.); (N.M.); (K.Y.)
| | - Yayoi Izu
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, 1-3 Ikoi-no-oka, Imabari 794-8555, Japan;
| | - Noritaka Maeta
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, 1-3 Ikoi-no-oka, Imabari 794-8555, Japan; (M.M.); (H.K.); (N.M.); (K.Y.)
| | - Kazuaki Yamazoe
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, 1-3 Ikoi-no-oka, Imabari 794-8555, Japan; (M.M.); (H.K.); (N.M.); (K.Y.)
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7
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Ninomiya I, Koyama A, Otsu Y, Onodera O, Kanazawa M. Regeneration of the cerebral cortex by direct chemical reprogramming of macrophages into neuronal cells in acute ischemic stroke. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1225504. [PMID: 37636590 PMCID: PMC10457112 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1225504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Theoretically, direct chemical reprogramming of somatic cells into neurons in the infarct area represents a promising regenerative therapy for ischemic stroke. Previous studies have reported that human fibroblasts and astrocytes transdifferentiate into neuronal cells in the presence of small molecules without introducing ectopic transgenes. However, the optimal combination of small molecules for the transdifferentiation of macrophages into neurons has not yet been determined. The authors hypothesized that a combination of small molecules could induce the transdifferentiation of monocyte-derived macrophages into neurons and that the administration of this combination may be a regenerative therapy for ischemic stroke because monocytes and macrophages are directly involved in the ischemic area. Transcriptomes and morphologies of the cells were compared before and after stimulation using RNA sequencing and immunofluorescence staining. Microscopic analyses were also performed to identify cell markers and evaluate functional recovery by blinded examination following the administration of small molecules after ischemic stroke in CB-17 mice. In this study, an essential combination of six small molecules [CHIR99021, Dorsomorphin, Forskolin, isoxazole-9 (ISX-9), Y27632, and DB2313] that transdifferentiated monocyte-derived macrophages into neurons in vitro was identified. Moreover, administration of six small molecules after cerebral ischemia in model animals generated a new neuronal layer in the infarct cortex by converting macrophages into neuronal cells, ultimately improving neurological function. These results suggest that altering the transdifferentiation of monocyte-derived macrophages by the small molecules to adjust their adaptive response will facilitate the development of regenerative therapies for ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itaru Ninomiya
- Department of Neurology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Akihide Koyama
- Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Science, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Yutaka Otsu
- Department of Neurology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Osamu Onodera
- Department of Neurology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Masato Kanazawa
- Department of Neurology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
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8
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Lear BP, Moore DL. Moving CNS axon growth and regeneration research into human model systems. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1198041. [PMID: 37425013 PMCID: PMC10324669 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1198041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Axon regeneration is limited in the adult mammalian central nervous system (CNS) due to both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Rodent studies have shown that developmental age can drive differences in intrinsic axon growth ability, such that embryonic rodent CNS neurons extend long axons while postnatal and adult CNS neurons do not. In recent decades, scientists have identified several intrinsic developmental regulators in rodents that modulate growth. However, whether this developmentally programmed decline in CNS axon growth is conserved in humans is not yet known. Until recently, there have been limited human neuronal model systems, and even fewer age-specific human models. Human in vitro models range from pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons to directly reprogrammed (transdifferentiated) neurons derived from human somatic cells. In this review, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each system, and how studying axon growth in human neurons can provide species-specific knowledge in the field of CNS axon regeneration with the goal of bridging basic science studies to clinical trials. Additionally, with the increased availability and quality of 'omics datasets of human cortical tissue across development and lifespan, scientists can mine these datasets for developmentally regulated pathways and genes. As there has been little research performed in human neurons to study modulators of axon growth, here we provide a summary of approaches to begin to shift the field of CNS axon growth and regeneration into human model systems to uncover novel drivers of axon growth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Darcie L. Moore
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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9
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Seah C, Huckins LM, Brennand KJ. Stem Cell Models for Context-Specific Modeling in Psychiatric Disorders. Biol Psychiatry 2023; 93:642-650. [PMID: 36658083 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies reveal the complex polygenic architecture underlying psychiatric disorder risk, but there is an unmet need to validate causal variants, resolve their target genes(s), and explore their functional impacts on disorder-related mechanisms. Disorder-associated loci regulate transcription of target genes in a cell type- and context-specific manner, which can be measured through expression quantitative trait loci. In this review, we discuss methods and insights from context-specific modeling of genetically and environmentally regulated expression. Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cell type and organoid models have uncovered context-specific psychiatric disorder associations by investigating tissue-, cell type-, sex-, age-, and stressor-specific genetic regulation of expression. Techniques such as massively parallel reporter assays and pooled CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) screens make it possible to functionally fine-map genome-wide association study loci and validate their target genes at scale. Integration of disorder-associated contexts with these patient-specific human induced pluripotent stem cell models makes it possible to uncover gene by environment interactions that mediate disorder risk, which will ultimately improve our ability to diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Seah
- Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York
| | - Laura M Huckins
- Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
| | - Kristen J Brennand
- Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
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10
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Chou CC, Vest R, Prado MA, Wilson-Grady J, Paulo JA, Shibuya Y, Moran-Losada P, Lee TT, Luo J, Gygi SP, Kelly JW, Finley D, Wernig M, Wyss-Coray T, Frydman J. Proteostasis and lysosomal quality control deficits in Alzheimer's disease neurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.27.534444. [PMID: 37034684 PMCID: PMC10081252 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.27.534444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The role of proteostasis and organelle homeostasis dysfunction in human aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains unclear. Analyzing proteome-wide changes in human donor fibroblasts and their corresponding transdifferentiated neurons (tNeurons), we find aging and AD synergistically impair multiple proteostasis pathways, most notably lysosomal quality control (LQC). In particular, we show that ESCRT-mediated lysosomal repair defects are associated with both sporadic and PSEN1 familial AD. Aging- and AD-linked defects are detected in fibroblasts but highly exacerbated in tNeurons, leading to enhanced neuronal vulnerability, unrepaired lysosomal damage, inflammatory factor secretion and cytotoxicity. Surprisingly, tNeurons from aged and AD donors spontaneously develop amyloid-β inclusions co-localizing with LQC markers, LAMP1/2-positive lysosomes and proteostasis factors; we observe similar inclusions in brain tissue from AD patients and APP-transgenic mice. Importantly, compounds enhancing lysosomal function broadly ameliorate these AD-associated pathologies. Our findings establish cell-autonomous LQC dysfunction in neurons as a central vulnerability in aging and AD pathogenesis.
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Chen J, Huang L, Yang Y, Xu W, Qin Q, Qin R, Liang X, Lai X, Huang X, Xie M, Chen L. Somatic Cell Reprogramming for Nervous System Diseases: Techniques, Mechanisms, Potential Applications, and Challenges. Brain Sci 2023; 13:brainsci13030524. [PMID: 36979334 PMCID: PMC10046178 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13030524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Nervous system diseases present significant challenges to the neuroscience community due to ethical and practical constraints that limit access to appropriate research materials. Somatic cell reprogramming has been proposed as a novel way to obtain neurons. Various emerging techniques have been used to reprogram mature and differentiated cells into neurons. This review provides an overview of somatic cell reprogramming for neurological research and therapy, focusing on neural reprogramming and generating different neural cell types. We examine the mechanisms involved in reprogramming and the challenges that arise. We herein summarize cell reprogramming strategies to generate neurons, including transcription factors, small molecules, and microRNAs, with a focus on different types of cells.. While reprogramming somatic cells into neurons holds the potential for understanding neurological diseases and developing therapeutic applications, its limitations and risks must be carefully considered. Here, we highlight the potential benefits of somatic cell reprogramming for neurological disease research and therapy. This review contributes to the field by providing a comprehensive overview of the various techniques used to generate neurons by cellular reprogramming and discussing their potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiafeng Chen
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Lijuan Huang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Yue Yang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Qingchun Qin
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Rongxing Qin
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Xiaojun Liang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Xinyu Lai
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Aging-Related Diseases of Chinese Ministry of Education, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Xiaoying Huang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Minshan Xie
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China
- Key Laboratory of Longevity and Aging-Related Diseases of Chinese Ministry of Education, Nanning 530021, China
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12
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Inagaki E, Yoshimatsu S, Okano H. Accelerated neuronal aging in vitro ∼melting watch ∼. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:868770. [PMID: 36016855 PMCID: PMC9397486 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.868770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In developed countries, the aging of the population and the associated increase in age-related diseases are causing major unresolved medical, social, and environmental matters. Therefore, research on aging has become one of the most important and urgent issues in life sciences. If the molecular mechanisms of the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases are elucidated, we can expect to develop disease-modifying methods to prevent neurodegeneration itself. Since the discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), there has been an explosion of disease models using disease-specific iPSCs derived from patient-derived somatic cells. By inducing the differentiation of iPSCs into neurons, disease models that reflect the patient-derived pathology can be reproduced in culture dishes, and are playing an active role in elucidating new pathological mechanisms and as a platform for new drug discovery. At the same time, however, we are faced with a new problem: how to recapitulate aging in culture dishes. It has been pointed out that cells differentiated from pluripotent stem cells are juvenile, retain embryonic traits, and may not be fully mature. Therefore, attempts are being made to induce cell maturation, senescence, and stress signals through culture conditions. It has also been reported that direct conversion of fibroblasts into neurons can reproduce human neurons with an aged phenotype. Here, we outline some state-of-the-art insights into models of neuronal aging in vitro. New frontiers in which stem cells and methods for inducing differentiation of tissue regeneration can be applied to aging research are just now approaching, and we need to keep a close eye on them. These models are forefront and intended to advance our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of aging and contribute to the development of novel therapies for human neurodegenerative diseases associated with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emi Inagaki
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Japanese Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sho Yoshimatsu
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Okano
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- *Correspondence: Hideyuki Okano,
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13
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Wang J, Chen S, Pan C, Li G, Tang Z. Application of Small Molecules in the Central Nervous System Direct Neuronal Reprogramming. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:799152. [PMID: 35875485 PMCID: PMC9301571 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.799152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The lack of regenerative capacity of neurons leads to poor prognoses for some neurological disorders. The use of small molecules to directly reprogram somatic cells into neurons provides a new therapeutic strategy for neurological diseases. In this review, the mechanisms of action of different small molecules, the approaches to screening small molecule cocktails, and the methods employed to detect their reprogramming efficiency are discussed, and the studies, focusing on neuronal reprogramming using small molecules in neurological disease models, are collected. Future research efforts are needed to investigate the in vivo mechanisms of small molecule-mediated neuronal reprogramming under pathophysiological states, optimize screening cocktails and dosing regimens, and identify safe and effective delivery routes to promote neural regeneration in different neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Gaigai Li
- *Correspondence: Gaigai Li, ; Zhouping Tang,
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14
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Baklaushev VP, Yusubalieva GM, Samoilova EM, Belopasov VV. Resident Neural Stem Cell Niches and Regeneration: The Splendors and Miseries of Adult Neurogenesis. Russ J Dev Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062360422030080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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15
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Cho YD, Kim KH, Lee YM, Ku Y, Seol YJ. Dental-derived cells for regenerative medicine: stem cells, cell reprogramming, and transdifferentiation. J Periodontal Implant Sci 2022; 52:437-454. [PMID: 36468465 PMCID: PMC9807848 DOI: 10.5051/jpis.2103760188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryonic stem cells have been a popular research topic in regenerative medicine owing to their pluripotency and applicability. However, due to the difficulty in harvesting them and their low yield efficiency, advanced cell reprogramming technology has been introduced as an alternative. Dental stem cells have entered the spotlight due to their regenerative potential and their ability to be obtained from biological waste generated after dental treatment. Cell reprogramming, a process of reverting mature somatic cells into stem cells, and transdifferentiation, a direct conversion between different cell types without induction of a pluripotent state, have helped overcome the shortcomings of stem cells and raised interest in their regenerative potential. Furthermore, the potential of these cells to return to their original cell types due to their epigenetic memory has reinforced the need to control the epigenetic background for successful management of cellular differentiation. Herein, we discuss all available sources of dental stem cells, the procedures used to obtain these cells, and their ability to differentiate into the desired cells. We also introduce the concepts of cell reprogramming and transdifferentiation in terms of genetics and epigenetics, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA. Finally, we discuss a novel therapeutic avenue for using dental-derived cells as stem cells, and explain cell reprogramming and transdifferentiation, which are used in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Dan Cho
- Department of Periodontology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University and Seoul National University Dental Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyoung-Hwa Kim
- Department of Periodontology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University and Seoul National University Dental Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yong-Moo Lee
- Department of Periodontology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University and Seoul National University Dental Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Ku
- Department of Periodontology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University and Seoul National University Dental Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yang-Jo Seol
- Department of Periodontology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University and Seoul National University Dental Hospital, Seoul, Korea
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16
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Ng N, Newbery M, Maksour S, Dottori M, Sluyter R, Ooi L. Transgene and Chemical Transdifferentiation of Somatic Cells for Rapid and Efficient Neurological Disease Cell Models. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:858432. [PMID: 35634469 PMCID: PMC9130549 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.858432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
For neurological diseases, molecular and cellular research relies on the use of model systems to investigate disease processes and test potential therapeutics. The last decade has witnessed an increase in the number of studies using induced pluripotent stem cells to generate disease relevant cell types from patients. The reprogramming process permits the generation of a large number of cells but is potentially disadvantaged by introducing variability in clonal lines and the removal of phenotypes of aging, which are critical to understand neurodegenerative diseases. An under-utilized approach to disease modeling involves the transdifferentiation of aged cells from patients, such as fibroblasts or blood cells, into various neural cell types. In this review we discuss techniques used for rapid and efficient direct conversion to neural cell types. We examine the limitations and future perspectives of this rapidly advancing field that could improve neurological disease modeling and drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neville Ng
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience and Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Neville Ng,
| | - Michelle Newbery
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience and Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Simon Maksour
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Mirella Dottori
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Ronald Sluyter
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience and Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Lezanne Ooi
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience and Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Lezanne Ooi,
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Barbé L, Finkbeiner S. Genetic and Epigenetic Interplay Define Disease Onset and Severity in Repeat Diseases. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:750629. [PMID: 35592702 PMCID: PMC9110800 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.750629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Repeat diseases, such as fragile X syndrome, myotonic dystrophy, Friedreich ataxia, Huntington disease, spinocerebellar ataxias, and some forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, are caused by repetitive DNA sequences that are expanded in affected individuals. The age at which an individual begins to experience symptoms, and the severity of disease, are partially determined by the size of the repeat. However, the epigenetic state of the area in and around the repeat also plays an important role in determining the age of disease onset and the rate of disease progression. Many repeat diseases share a common epigenetic pattern of increased methylation at CpG islands near the repeat region. CpG islands are CG-rich sequences that are tightly regulated by methylation and are often found at gene enhancer or insulator elements in the genome. Methylation of CpG islands can inhibit binding of the transcriptional regulator CTCF, resulting in a closed chromatin state and gene down regulation. The downregulation of these genes leads to some disease-specific symptoms. Additionally, a genetic and epigenetic interplay is suggested by an effect of methylation on repeat instability, a hallmark of large repeat expansions that leads to increasing disease severity in successive generations. In this review, we will discuss the common epigenetic patterns shared across repeat diseases, how the genetics and epigenetics interact, and how this could be involved in disease manifestation. We also discuss the currently available stem cell and mouse models, which frequently do not recapitulate epigenetic patterns observed in human disease, and propose alternative strategies to study the role of epigenetics in repeat diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Barbé
- Center for Systems and Therapeutics, Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Steve Finkbeiner
- Center for Systems and Therapeutics, Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Steve Finkbeiner,
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Chu W, Chu X, Wang J. Uncovering the Quantitative Relationships Among Chromosome Fluctuations, Epigenetics, and Gene Expressions of Transdifferentiation on Waddington Landscape. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2103617. [PMID: 35104056 PMCID: PMC8981899 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202103617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The 3D spatial organization of the chromosomes appears to be linked to the gene function, which is cell type-specific. The chromosome structural ensemble switching model (CSESM) is developed by employing a heteropolymer model on different cell types and the important quantitative relationships among the chromosome ensemble, the epigenetic marks, and the gene expressions are uncovered, that both chromosome fluctuation and epigenetic marks have strong linear correlations with the gene expressions. The results support that the two compartments have different behaviors, corresponding to the relatively sparse and fluctuating phase (compartment A) and the relatively dense and stable phase (compartment B). Importantly, through the investigation of the transdifferentiation processes between the peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) and the bipolar neuron (BN), a quantitative description for the transdifferentiation is provided, which can be linked to the Waddington landscape. In addition, compared to the direct transdifferentiation between PBMC and BN, the transdifferentiation via the intermediate state neural progenitor cell (NPC) follows a different path (an "uphill" followed by a "downhill"). These theoretical studies bridge the gap among the chromosome fluctuations/ensembles, the epigenetics, and gene expressions in determining the cell fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen‐Ting Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical ChemistryChangchun Institute of Applied ChemistryChinese Academy of SciencesChangchunJilin130022China
| | - Xiakun Chu
- Department of Chemistry & PhysicsState University of New York at Stony BrookStony BrookNY11794USA
| | - Jin Wang
- Department of Chemistry & PhysicsState University of New York at Stony BrookStony BrookNY11794USA
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19
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Gao* K, Ayati* M, Koyuturk M, Calabrese JR, Ganocy SJ, Kaye NM, Lazarus HM, Christian E, Kaplan D. Protein Biomarkers in Monocytes and CD4 + Lymphocytes for Predicting Lithium Treatment Response of Bipolar Disorder: a Feasibility Study with Tyramine-Based Signal-Amplified Flow Cytometry. PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY BULLETIN 2022; 52:8-35. [PMID: 35342205 PMCID: PMC8896753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
Purpose To determine if enhanced flow cytometry (CellPrint™) can identify intracellular proteins of lithium responsiveness in monocytes and CD4+ lymphocytes from patients with bipolar disorder. Methods Eligible bipolar I or II patients were openly treated with lithium for 16-weeks. Baseline levels of Bcl2, BDNF, calmodulin, Fyn, phospho-Fyn/phospho-Yes, GSK3β, phospho-GSK3αβ, HMGB1, iNOS, IRS2, mTor, NLPR3, PGM1, PKA C-α, PPAR-γ, phospho-RelA, and TPH1 in monocytes and CD4+ lymphocytes of lithium responders and non-responders were measured with CellPrint™. Their utility of discriminating responders from non-responders was explored. Protein-protein network and pathway enrichment analyses were conducted. Results Of the 24 intent-to-treat patients, 12 patients completed the 16-week study. Eleven of 13 responders and 8 of 11 non-responders were available for this analysis. The levels of the majority of analytes in lithium responders were lower than non-responders in both cell types, but only the level of GSK3β in monocytes was significantly different (p = 0.034). The combination of GSK3β and phospho-GSK3αβ levels in monocytes correctly classified 11/11 responders and 5/8 non-responders. Combination of GSK3β, phospho-RelA, TPH1 and PGM1 correctly classified 10/11 responders and 6/7 non-responders, both with a likelihood of ≥ 85%. Prolactin, leptin, BDNF, neurotrophin, and epidermal growth factor/epidermal growth factor receptor signaling pathways are involved in the lithium treatment response. GSK3β and RelA genes are involved in 4 of 5 these pathways. Conclusion CellPrint™ flow cytometry was able to detect differences in multiple proteins in monocytes and CD4+ lymphocytes between lithium responders and non-responders. A large study is warranted to confirm or refute these findings.
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20
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Maia N, Nabais Sá MJ, Melo-Pires M, de Brouwer APM, Jorge P. Intellectual disability genomics: current state, pitfalls and future challenges. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:909. [PMID: 34930158 PMCID: PMC8686650 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-08227-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Intellectual disability (ID) can be caused by non-genetic and genetic factors, the latter being responsible for more than 1700 ID-related disorders. The broad ID phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity, as well as the difficulty in the establishment of the inheritance pattern, often result in a delay in the diagnosis. It has become apparent that massive parallel sequencing can overcome these difficulties. In this review we address: (i) ID genetic aetiology, (ii) clinical/medical settings testing, (iii) massive parallel sequencing, (iv) variant filtering and prioritization, (v) variant classification guidelines and functional studies, and (vi) ID diagnostic yield. Furthermore, the need for a constant update of the methodologies and functional tests, is essential. Thus, international collaborations, to gather expertise, data and resources through multidisciplinary contributions, are fundamental to keep track of the fast progress in ID gene discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuno Maia
- Centro de Genética Médica Jacinto de Magalhães (CGM), Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto (CHUPorto), Porto, Portugal. .,Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), and ITR - Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Maria João Nabais Sá
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), and ITR - Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Manuel Melo-Pires
- Serviço de Neuropatologia, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário do Porto (CHUPorto), Porto, Portugal
| | - Arjan P M de Brouwer
- Department of Human Genetics, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Paula Jorge
- Centro de Genética Médica Jacinto de Magalhães (CGM), Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto (CHUPorto), Porto, Portugal.,Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), and ITR - Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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21
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Chao CC, Shen PW, Tzeng TY, Kung HJ, Tsai TF, Wong YH. Human iPSC-Derived Neurons as A Platform for Deciphering the Mechanisms behind Brain Aging. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1635. [PMID: 34829864 PMCID: PMC8615703 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
With an increased life expectancy among humans, aging has recently emerged as a major focus in biomedical research. The lack of in vitro aging models-especially for neurological disorders, where access to human brain tissues is limited-has hampered the progress in studies on human brain aging and various age-associated neurodegenerative diseases at the cellular and molecular level. In this review, we provide an overview of age-related changes in the transcriptome, in signaling pathways, and in relation to epigenetic factors that occur in senescent neurons. Moreover, we explore the current cell models used to study neuronal aging in vitro, including immortalized cell lines, primary neuronal culture, neurons directly converted from fibroblasts (Fib-iNs), and iPSC-derived neurons (iPSC-iNs); we also discuss the advantages and limitations of these models. In addition, the key phenotypes associated with cellular senescence that have been observed by these models are compared. Finally, we focus on the potential of combining human iPSC-iNs with genome editing technology in order to further our understanding of brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases, and discuss the future directions and challenges in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan-Chuan Chao
- Aging and Health Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (C.-C.C.); (T.-F.T.)
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Po-Wen Shen
- Program in Molecular Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 112, Taiwan;
- Ph.D. Program for Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Tsai-Yu Tzeng
- Cancer Progression Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan;
| | - Hsing-Jien Kung
- Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Miaoli 350, Taiwan;
- Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California at Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Ting-Fen Tsai
- Aging and Health Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; (C.-C.C.); (T.-F.T.)
- Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Miaoli 350, Taiwan;
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hui Wong
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Brain Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
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22
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Han JK, Shin Y, Kim HS. Direct Conversion of Cell Fate and Induced Endothelial Cells. Circ J 2021; 86:1925-1933. [PMID: 34732599 DOI: 10.1253/circj.cj-21-0703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Advances in nuclear reprogramming technology have enabled the dedifferentiation and transdifferentiation of mammalian cells. Forced induction of the key transcription factors constituting a transcriptional network can convert cells back to their pluripotent status or directly to another cell fate without inducing pluripotency. To date, direct conversion to several cell types, including cardiomyocytes, various types of neurons, and pancreatic β-cells, has been reported. We previously demonstrated direct lineage reprogramming of adult fibroblasts into induced endothelial cells (iECs) in mice and humans. In contrast to induced pluripotent stem cells, for which there is consensus on the criteria defining pluripotency, such criteria have not yet been established in the field of direct conversion. We thus suggest that careful assessment of the status of converted cells using genetic and epigenetic profiling, various functional assays, and the use of multiple readouts is essential to determine successful conversion. As direct conversion does not go through pluripotent status, this technique can be utilized for therapeutic purposes without the risk of tumorigenesis. Further, direct conversion can be induced in vivo by gene delivery to the target tissue or organ in situ. Thus, direct conversion technology can be developed into cell therapy or gene therapy for regenerative purposes. Here, we review the potential and future directions of direct cell fate conversion and iECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Kyu Han
- Department of Internal Medicine, and Strategic Center of Cell and Bio Therapy for Heart, Diabetes and Cancer, Seoul National University Hospital
| | - Youngchul Shin
- Department of Internal Medicine, and Strategic Center of Cell and Bio Therapy for Heart, Diabetes and Cancer, Seoul National University Hospital
| | - Hyo-Soo Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, and Strategic Center of Cell and Bio Therapy for Heart, Diabetes and Cancer, Seoul National University Hospital
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23
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Samoilova EM, Belopasov VV, Baklaushev VP. Transcription Factors of Direct Neuronal Reprogramming in Ontogenesis and Ex Vivo. Mol Biol 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026893321040087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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24
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Savage AM, Alberio R, Johnson AD. Germline competent mesoderm: the substrate for vertebrate germline and somatic stem cells? Biol Open 2021; 10:272478. [PMID: 34648017 PMCID: PMC8524722 DOI: 10.1242/bio.058890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro production of tissue-specific stem cells [e.g. haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs)] is a key goal of regenerative medicine. However, recent efforts to produce fully functional tissue-specific stem cells have fallen short. One possible cause of shortcomings may be that model organisms used to characterize basic vertebrate embryology (Xenopus, zebrafish, chick) may employ molecular mechanisms for stem cell specification that are not conserved in humans, a prominent example being the specification of primordial germ cells (PGCs). Germ plasm irreversibly specifies PGCs in many models; however, it is not conserved in humans, which produce PGCs from tissue termed germline-competent mesoderm (GLCM). GLCM is not conserved in organisms containing germ plasm, or even in mice, but understanding its developmental potential could unlock successful production of other stem cell types. GLCM was first discovered in embryos from the axolotl and its conservation has since been demonstrated in pigs, which develop from a flat-disc embryo like humans. Together these findings suggest that GLCM is a conserved basal trait of vertebrate embryos. Moreover, the immortal nature of germ cells suggests that immortality is retained during GLCM specification; here we suggest that the demonstrated pluripotency of GLCM accounts for retention of immortality in somatic stem cell types as well. This article has an associated Future Leaders to Watch interview with the author of the paper. Summary: Recent findings that germline and stem cell specification may differ between species may have important implications for regenerative medicine and the future of stem cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron M Savage
- School of Pharmacy, Division of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Ramiro Alberio
- School of Biosciences, Stem Cell Biology, Reprogramming and Pluripotency, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Andrew D Johnson
- School of Life Sciences, Division of Cells, Organisms and Molecular Genetics, University of Nottingham, Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
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González-González R, Ortiz-Sarabia G, Molina-Frechero N, Salas-Pacheco JM, Salas-Pacheco SM, Lavalle-Carrasco J, López-Verdín S, Tremillo-Maldonado O, Bologna-Molina R. Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Associated with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas: A Review. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13123027. [PMID: 34204259 PMCID: PMC8234594 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13123027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are aggressive, recurrent, and metastatic neoplasms with a high occurrence around the world and can lead to death when not treated appropriately. Several molecules and signaling pathways are involved in the malignant conversion process. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been described in HNSCCs, a major type of aggressive carcinoma. EMT describes the development of epithelial cells into mesenchymal cells, which depends on several molecular interactions and signaling pathways that facilitate mesenchymal conversion. This is related to interactions with the microenvironment of the tumor, hypoxia, growth factors, matrix metalloproteinases, and the presence of viral infections. In this review, we focus on the main molecules related to EMT, their interactions with the tumor microenvironment, plasticity phenomena, epigenetic regulation, hypoxia, inflammation, their relationship with immune cells, and the inhibition of EMT in the context of HNSCCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rogelio González-González
- Department of Research, School of Dentistry, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango 34000, Mexico; (R.G.-G.); (G.O.-S.); (O.T.-M.)
| | - Gamaliel Ortiz-Sarabia
- Department of Research, School of Dentistry, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango 34000, Mexico; (R.G.-G.); (G.O.-S.); (O.T.-M.)
| | - Nelly Molina-Frechero
- Xochimilco Unit, Department of Health Care, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM) Xochimilco, Mexico City 04960, Mexico; (N.M.-F.); (J.L.-C.)
| | - José Manuel Salas-Pacheco
- Scientific Research Institute, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Avenida Universidad S/N, Durango 34000, Mexico; (J.M.S.-P.); (S.M.S.-P.)
| | - Sergio Manuel Salas-Pacheco
- Scientific Research Institute, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Avenida Universidad S/N, Durango 34000, Mexico; (J.M.S.-P.); (S.M.S.-P.)
| | - Jesús Lavalle-Carrasco
- Xochimilco Unit, Department of Health Care, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM) Xochimilco, Mexico City 04960, Mexico; (N.M.-F.); (J.L.-C.)
| | - Sandra López-Verdín
- Health Science Center, Dentistry Research Institute, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 4430, Mexico;
| | - Omar Tremillo-Maldonado
- Department of Research, School of Dentistry, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango 34000, Mexico; (R.G.-G.); (G.O.-S.); (O.T.-M.)
| | - Ronell Bologna-Molina
- Department of Research, School of Dentistry, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango 34000, Mexico; (R.G.-G.); (G.O.-S.); (O.T.-M.)
- Molecular Pathology Area, School of Dentistry, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11600, Uruguay
- Correspondence:
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Mattiassi S, Rizwan M, Grigsby CL, Zaw AM, Leong KW, Yim EKF. Enhanced efficiency of nonviral direct neuronal reprogramming on topographical patterns. Biomater Sci 2021; 9:5175-5191. [PMID: 34128504 DOI: 10.1039/d1bm00400j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Nonviral direct neuronal reprogramming holds significant potential in the fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. However, the issue of low reprogramming efficiency poses a major barrier to its application. We propose that topographical cues, which have been applied successfully to enhance lineage-directed differentiation and multipotent stem cell transdifferentiation, could improve nonviral direct neuronal reprogramming efficiency. To investigate, we used a polymer-BAM (Brn2, Ascl1, Myt1l) factor transfection polypex to reprogram primary mouse embryonic fibroblasts. Using a multiarchitecture chip, we screened for patterns that may improve transfection and/or subsequent induced neuron reprogramming efficiency. Selected patterns were then investigated further by analyzing β-tubulin III (TUJ1) and microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) protein expression, cell morphology and electrophysiological function of induced neurons. Certain hierarchical topographies, with nanopatterns imprinted on micropatterns, significantly improved the percentage of TUJ1+ and MAP2+ cells. It is postulated that the microscale base pattern enhances initial BAM expression while the nanoscale sub-pattern promotes subsequent maturation. This is because the base pattern alone increased expression of TUJ1 and MAP2, while the nanoscale pattern was the only pattern yielding induced neurons capable of firing multiple action potentials. Nanoscale patterns also produced the highest fraction of cells showing spontaneous synaptic activity. Overall, reprogramming efficiency with one dose of polyplex on hierarchical patterns was comparable to that of five doses without topography. Thus, topography can enhance nonviral direct reprogramming of fibroblasts into induced neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Mattiassi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave. W, Waterloo, Ontario N2L 3G1, Canada.
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Nerve impulse transmission pathway-focused genes expression analysis in patients with primary hypothyroidism and autoimmune thyroiditis. Endocr Regul 2021; 54:109-118. [PMID: 32597152 DOI: 10.2478/enr-2020-0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Thyroid hormones have important actions in the adult brain. They regulate genes expression in myelination, differentiation of neuronal and glial cells, and neuronal viability and function. METHODS We used the pathway-specific real-time PCR array (Neurotrophins and Receptors RT2 Profiler PCR Array, QIAGEN, Germany) to identify and verify nerve impulse transmission pathway-focused genes expression in peripheral white blood cells of patients with postoperative hypothyroidism, hypothyroidism as a result of autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) and AIT with elevated serum an anti-thyroglobulin (anti-Tg) and anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies. RESULTS It was shown that patients with postoperative hypothyroidism and hypothyroidism resulting from AIT had significantly lower expression of BDNF and CBLN1. In patients with AIT with elevated serum anti-Tg and anti-TPO antibodies, the expression of GDNF was significantly down-regulated and the expression of PNOC was up-regulated. The expression levels of MEF2C and NTSR1 were decreased in the group of patients with postoperative hypothyroidism and AIT, correspondingly. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study demonstrate that AIT and hypothyroidism can affect the expression of mRNA nerve impulse transmission genes in gene specific manner and that these changes in gene expressions can be playing a role in the development of neurological complications associated with thyroid pathology. Detection of the transcriptional activity of nerve impulse transmission genes in peripheral white blood cells can be used as an important minimally invasive prognostic marker of the risk for developing neurological complications comorbid with thyroid pathology.
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Kim KM, Thaqi M, Peterson DA, Marr RA. Induced Neurons for Disease Modeling and Repair: A Focus on Non-fibroblastic Cell Sources in Direct Reprogramming. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:658498. [PMID: 33777923 PMCID: PMC7995206 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.658498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct cellular reprogramming exhibits distinct advantages over reprogramming from an induced pluripotent stem cell intermediate. These include a reduced risk of tumorigenesis and the likely preservation of epigenetic data. In vitro direct reprogramming approaches primarily aim to model the pathophysiological development of neurological disease and identify therapeutic targets, while in vivo direct reprogramming aims to develop treatments for various neurological disorders, including cerebral injury and cancer. In both approaches, there is progress toward developing increased control of subtype-specific production of induced neurons. A majority of research primarily utilizes fibroblasts as the donor cells. However, there are a variety of other somatic cell types that have demonstrated the potential for reprogramming into induced neurons. This review highlights studies that utilize non-fibroblastic cell sources for reprogramming, such as astrocytes, olfactory ensheathing cells, peripheral blood cells, Müller glia, and more. We will examine benefits and obstructions for translation into therapeutics or disease modeling, as well as efficiency of the conversion. A summary of donor cells, induced neuron types, and methods of induction is also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M Kim
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Therapeutics, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Mentor Thaqi
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Therapeutics, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States.,Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Daniel A Peterson
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Therapeutics, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Robert A Marr
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Therapeutics, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
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Mollinari C, Merlo D. Direct Reprogramming of Somatic Cells to Neurons: Pros and Cons of Chemical Approach. Neurochem Res 2021; 46:1330-1336. [PMID: 33666839 PMCID: PMC8084785 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03282-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Translating successful preclinical research in neurodegenerative diseases into clinical practice has been difficult. The preclinical disease models used for testing new drugs not always appear predictive of the effects of the agents in the human disease state. Human induced pluripotent stem cells, obtained by reprogramming of adult somatic cells, represent a powerful system to study the molecular mechanisms of the disease onset and pathogenesis. However, these cells require a long time to differentiate into functional neural cells and the resetting of epigenetic information during reprogramming, might miss the information imparted by age. On the contrary, the direct conversion of somatic cells to neuronal cells is much faster and more efficient, it is safer for cell therapy and allows to preserve the signatures of donors’ age. Direct reprogramming can be induced by lineage-specific transcription factors or chemical cocktails and represents a powerful tool for modeling neurological diseases and for regenerative medicine. In this Commentary we present and discuss strength and weakness of several strategies for the direct cellular reprogramming from somatic cells to generate human brain cells which maintain age‐related features. In particular, we describe and discuss chemical strategy for cellular reprogramming as it represents a valuable tool for many applications such as aged brain modeling, drug screening and personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiana Mollinari
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133, Rome, Italy. .,Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanita', Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Daniela Merlo
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanita', Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
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30
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Fell CW, Nagy V. Cellular Models and High-Throughput Screening for Genetic Causality of Intellectual Disability. Trends Mol Med 2021; 27:220-230. [PMID: 33397633 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Intellectual disabilities (ID) are a type of neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD). They can have a genetic cause, including an emerging class of ID centring around Rho GTPases, such as Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (RAC1). Guidelines for establishing genetic causality include the use of cellular models, which often have morphological aberrations, a long-standing hallmark of ID. Disease cellular models can facilitate high-throughput screening (HTS) of chemical or genetic perturbations, which can provide translatable biological insight. Here, we discuss a class of IDs centring around RAC1. We review novel and established cellular models of ID, including mouse and human primary cells and reprogrammed or induced neurons. Finally, we review progress and remaining challenges in the adoption of HTS methodologies by the community studying neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W Fell
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases (LBI-RUD), 1090 Vienna, Austria; Research Centre for Molecular Medicine (CeMM) of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria; Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna (MUW), 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Vanja Nagy
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases (LBI-RUD), 1090 Vienna, Austria; Research Centre for Molecular Medicine (CeMM) of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria; Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna (MUW), 1090 Vienna, Austria.
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31
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Xiang Z, Xu L, Liu M, Wang Q, Li W, Lei W, Chen G. Lineage tracing of direct astrocyte-to-neuron conversion in the mouse cortex. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:750-756. [PMID: 33063738 PMCID: PMC8067918 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.295925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Regenerating functional new neurons in the adult mammalian central nervous system has been proven to be very challenging due to the inability of neurons to divide and repopulate themselves after neuronal loss. Glial cells, on the other hand, can divide and repopulate themselves under injury or diseased conditions. We have previously reported that ectopic expression of NeuroD1 in dividing glial cells can directly convert them into neurons. Here, using astrocytic lineage-tracing reporter mice (Aldh1l1-CreERT2 mice crossing with Ai14 mice), we demonstrate that lineage-traced astrocytes can be successfully converted into NeuN-positive neurons after expressing NeuroD1 through adeno-associated viruses. Retroviral expression of NeuroD1 further confirms that dividing glial cells can be converted into neurons. Importantly, we demonstrate that for in vivo cell conversion study, using a safe level of adeno-associated virus dosage (1010–1012 gc/mL, 1 µL) in the rodent brain is critical to avoid artifacts caused by toxic dosage, such as that used in a recent bioRxiv study (2 × 1013 gc/mL, 1 µL, mouse cortex). For therapeutic purpose under injury or diseased conditions, or for non-human primate studies, adeno-associated virus dosage needs to be optimized through a series of dose-finding experiments. Moreover, for future in vivo glia-to-neuron conversion studies, we recommend that the adeno-associated virus results are further verified with retroviruses that mainly express transgenes in dividing glial cells in order to draw solid conclusions. The study was approved by the Laboratory Animal Ethics Committee of Jinan University, China (approval No. IACUC-20180330-06) on March 30, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongqin Xiang
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration; Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Liang Xu
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Minhui Liu
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qingsong Wang
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Wen Li
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Wenliang Lei
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Gong Chen
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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32
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Konstantinides N, Desplan C. Neuronal differentiation strategies: insights from single-cell sequencing and machine learning. Development 2020; 147:dev193631. [PMID: 33293292 PMCID: PMC7746664 DOI: 10.1242/dev.193631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal replacement therapies rely on the in vitro differentiation of specific cell types from embryonic or induced pluripotent stem cells, or on the direct reprogramming of differentiated adult cells via the expression of transcription factors or signaling molecules. The factors used to induce differentiation or reprogramming are often identified by informed guesses based on differential gene expression or known roles for these factors during development. Moreover, differentiation protocols usually result in partly differentiated cells or the production of a mix of cell types. In this Hypothesis article, we suggest that, to overcome these inefficiencies and improve neuronal differentiation protocols, we need to take into account the developmental history of the desired cell types. Specifically, we present a strategy that uses single-cell sequencing techniques combined with machine learning as a principled method to select a sequence of programming factors that are important not only in adult neurons but also during differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Claude Desplan
- Department of Biology, New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA
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33
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Szabó E, Juhász F, Hathy E, Reé D, Homolya L, Erdei Z, Réthelyi JM, Apáti Á. Functional Comparison of Blood-Derived Human Neural Progenitor Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E9118. [PMID: 33266139 PMCID: PMC7730078 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neural progenitor cells (NPCs) are promising tools to model complex neurological or psychiatric diseases, including schizophrenia. Multiple studies have compared patient-derived and healthy control NPCs derived from iPSCs in order to investigate cellular phenotypes of this disease, although the establishment, stabilization, and directed differentiation of iPSC lines are rather expensive and time-demanding. However, interrupted reprogramming by omitting the stabilization of iPSCs may allow for the generation of a plastic stage of the cells and thus provide a shortcut to derive NPSCs directly from tissue samples. Here, we demonstrate a method to generate shortcut NPCs (sNPCs) from blood mononuclear cells and present a detailed comparison of these sNPCs with NPCs obtained from the same blood samples through stable iPSC clones and a subsequent neural differentiation (classical NPCs-cNPCs). Peripheral blood cells were obtained from a schizophrenia patient and his two healthy parents (a case-parent trio), while a further umbilical cord blood sample was obtained from the cord of a healthy new-born. The expression of stage-specific markers in sNPCs and cNPCs were compared both at the protein and RNA levels. We also performed functional tests to investigate Wnt and glutamate signaling and the oxidative stress, as these pathways have been suggested to play important roles in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. We found similar responses in the two types of NPCs, suggesting that the shortcut procedure provides sNPCs, allowing an efficient screening of disease-related phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eszter Szabó
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (E.S.); (F.J.); (D.R.); (L.H.); (Z.E.)
| | - Flóra Juhász
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (E.S.); (F.J.); (D.R.); (L.H.); (Z.E.)
| | - Edit Hathy
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1083 Budapest, Hungary;
- National Brain Research Project (NAP) Molecular Psychiatry Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1083 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dóra Reé
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (E.S.); (F.J.); (D.R.); (L.H.); (Z.E.)
| | - László Homolya
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (E.S.); (F.J.); (D.R.); (L.H.); (Z.E.)
| | - Zsuzsa Erdei
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (E.S.); (F.J.); (D.R.); (L.H.); (Z.E.)
| | - János M. Réthelyi
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1083 Budapest, Hungary;
- National Brain Research Project (NAP) Molecular Psychiatry Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1083 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ágota Apáti
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, 1117 Budapest, Hungary; (E.S.); (F.J.); (D.R.); (L.H.); (Z.E.)
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34
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Induced Pluripotency: A Powerful Tool for In Vitro Modeling. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21238910. [PMID: 33255453 PMCID: PMC7727808 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21238910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the greatest breakthroughs of regenerative medicine in this century was the discovery of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology in 2006 by Shinya Yamanaka. iPSCs originate from terminally differentiated somatic cells that have newly acquired the developmental capacity of self-renewal and differentiation into any cells of three germ layers. Before iPSCs can be used routinely in clinical practice, their efficacy and safety need to be rigorously tested; however, iPSCs have already become effective and fully-fledged tools for application under in vitro conditions. They are currently routinely used for disease modeling, preparation of difficult-to-access cell lines, monitoring of cellular mechanisms in micro- or macroscopic scales, drug testing and screening, genetic engineering, and many other applications. This review is a brief summary of the reprogramming process and subsequent differentiation and culture of reprogrammed cells into neural precursor cells (NPCs) in two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) conditions. NPCs can be used as biomedical models for neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), which are currently considered to be one of the major health problems in the human population.
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35
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Zhang Y, Xie X, Hu J, Afreen KS, Zhang CL, Zhuge Q, Yang J. Prospects of Directly Reprogrammed Adult Human Neurons for Neurodegenerative Disease Modeling and Drug Discovery: iN vs. iPSCs Models. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:546484. [PMID: 33328842 PMCID: PMC7710799 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.546484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A reliable disease model is critical to the study of specific disease mechanisms as well as for the discovery and development of new drugs. Despite providing crucial insights into the mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, translation of this information to develop therapeutics in clinical trials have been unsuccessful. Reprogramming technology to convert adult somatic cells to induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) or directly reprogramming adult somatic cells to induced Neurons (iN), has allowed for the creation of better models to understand the molecular mechanisms and design of new drugs. In recent times, iPSC technology has been commonly used for modeling neurodegenerative diseases and drug discovery. However, several technological challenges have limited the application of iN. As evidence suggests, iN for the modeling of neurodegenerative disorders is advantageous compared to those derived from iPSCs. In this review, we will compare iPSCs and iN models for neurodegenerative diseases and their potential applications in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xinyang Xie
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,International Department of The Affiliated High School of South China Normal University (HFI), Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiangnan Hu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Kazi Sabrina Afreen
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Chun-Li Zhang
- Department of Molecular Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Qichuan Zhuge
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jianjing Yang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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36
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Carter JL, Halmai JANM, Fink KD. The iNs and Outs of Direct Reprogramming to Induced Neurons. Front Genome Ed 2020; 2:7. [PMID: 34713216 PMCID: PMC8525349 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2020.00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding of cell-type specific transcription factors has promoted progress in methods for cellular reprogramming, such as directly reprogramming somatic cells to induced neurons (iN). Methods for direct reprogramming require neuronal-fate determining gene activation via neuron-specific microRNAs, chemical modulation of key neuronal signaling pathways or overexpression via viral vectors, with some reprogramming strategies requiring a combination of these methods to induce the neuronal-cell fate. These methods have been employed in a multitude of cell types, including fibroblasts, hepatocytes, peripheral blood mononuclear, and T cells. The ability to create iN from skin biopsies and blood samples coupled with recent advancements in artificially inducing age- and disease-associated phenotypes are accelerating the development of disease models for late-onset neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we review how activation of the neuronal transcriptome alters the epigenetic landscape of the donor cell to facilitate reprogramming to neurons. We also discuss the advantages of using DNA binding domains such as CRISPR/dCas9 to overcome epigenetic barriers to induce neuronal-cell fate by activating endogenous neuronal cell-fate determining genes.
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37
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Egawa N, Suzuki H, Takahashi R, Hayakawa K, Li W, Lo EH, Arai K, Inoue H. From in vitro to in vivo reprogramming for neural transdifferentiation: An approach for CNS tissue remodeling using stem cell technology. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2020; 40:1739-1751. [PMID: 32423328 PMCID: PMC7446571 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x20910324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Advances in stem cell technology have provided three approaches to address the demanding issue of the treatment of intractable neurological disease. One of the approaches is the screening of compounds attenuating pathological phenotypes in stem-cell based models. A second approach consists of exogenous-targeted cell supplementation to the lesion with stem cell-derived differentiated cells. A third approach involves in vivo direct programming to transdifferentiate endogenous somatic cells and to boost CNS tissue remodeling. In this review, we outline research advances in stem cell technology of direct reprogramming in vitro and in vivo and discuss the future challenge of tissue remodeling by neural transdifferentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naohiro Egawa
- Department of Neurology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.,iPSC-based Drug Discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center (BRC), Kyoto, Japan.,Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hidefumi Suzuki
- Department of Neurology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.,iPSC-based Drug Discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center (BRC), Kyoto, Japan.,Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Takahashi
- Department of Neurology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kazuhide Hayakawa
- Neuroprotection Research Laboratories, Departments of Radiology and Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Wenlu Li
- Neuroprotection Research Laboratories, Departments of Radiology and Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eng H Lo
- Neuroprotection Research Laboratories, Departments of Radiology and Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ken Arai
- Neuroprotection Research Laboratories, Departments of Radiology and Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Haruhisa Inoue
- iPSC-based Drug Discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center (BRC), Kyoto, Japan.,Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Medical-risk Avoidance based on iPS Cells Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP), Kyoto, Japan
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Reprogramming and transdifferentiation - two key processes for regenerative medicine. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 882:173202. [PMID: 32562801 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Regenerative medicine based on transplants obtained from donors or foetal and new-born mesenchymal stem cells, encounter important obstacles such as limited availability of organs, ethical issues and immune rejection. The growing demand for therapeutic methods for patients being treated after serious accidents, severe organ dysfunction and an increasing number of cancer surgeries, exceeds the possibilities of the therapies that are currently available. Reprogramming and transdifferentiation provide powerful bioengineering tools. Both procedures are based on the somatic differentiated cells, which are easily and unlimitedly available, like for example: fibroblasts. During the reprogramming procedure mature cells are converted into pluripotent cells - which are capable to differentiate into almost any kind of desired cells. Transdifferentiation directly converts differentiated cells of one type into another differentiated cells type. Both procedures allow to obtained patient's dedicated cells for therapeutic purpose in regenerative medicine. In combination with biomaterials, it is possible to obtain even whole anatomical structures. Those patient's dedicated structures may serve for them upon serious accidents with massive tissue damage but also upon cancer surgeries as a replacement of damaged organ. Detailed information about reprogramming and transdifferentiation procedures as well as the current state of the art are presented in our review.
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39
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Neuronal Reprogramming for Tissue Repair and Neuroregeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124273. [PMID: 32560072 PMCID: PMC7352898 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell and cell reprogramming technology represent a rapidly growing field in regenerative medicine. A number of novel neural reprogramming methods have been established, using pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) or direct reprogramming, to efficiently derive specific neuronal cell types for therapeutic applications. Both in vitro and in vivo cellular reprogramming provide diverse therapeutic pathways for modeling neurological diseases and injury repair. In particular, the retina has emerged as a promising target for clinical application of regenerative medicine. Herein, we review the potential of neuronal reprogramming to develop regenerative strategy, with a particular focus on treating retinal degenerative diseases and discuss future directions and challenges in the field.
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40
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Huang X, He C, Hua X, Kan A, Mao Y, Sun S, Duan F, Wang J, Huang P, Li S. Oxidative stress induces monocyte-to-myofibroblast transdifferentiation through p38 in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Clin Transl Med 2020; 10:e41. [PMID: 32508052 PMCID: PMC7403727 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are among the most prominent cells during the desmoplastic reaction in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, CAFs are heterogeneous and the precise origins are not fully elucidated. This study aimed to explore whether monocytes can transdifferentiate into fibroblasts in PDAC and evaluate the clinical significance of this event. METHODS CD14+ monocytes were freshly isolated from human peripheral blood. Immunofluorescence, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, western blot, flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used to detect the expression of αSMA, fibronectin, and other relevant molecules. In addition, latex beads with a mean particle size of 2.0 µm were used to assess the phagocytic capacity. Moreover, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed to identify the differences induced by H2 O2 and the underlying mechanisms. RESULTS Immunofluorescence identified αSMA and fibroblast-specific protein 1 expression by tumor-associated macrophages in PDAC. The in vitro experiment revealed that oxidative stress (H2 O2 or radiation) induced monocyte-to-myofibroblast transdifferentiation (MMT), as identified by upregulated αSMA expression at both the RNA and protein levels. In addition, compared with freshly isolated monocytes, human monocyte-derived macrophages increased fibronectin expression. RNA-seq analysis identified p53 activation and other signatures accompanying this transdifferentiation; however, the p53 stabilizer nutlin-3 induced αSMA expression through reactive oxygen species generation but not through the p53 transcription/mitochondria-dependent pathway, whereas the p38 inhibitor SB203580 could partially inhibit αSMA expression. Finally, MMT produced a unique subset of CAFs with reduced phagocytic capacity that could promote the proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells. CONCLUSIONS Oxidative stress in the tumor microenvironment could induce MMT in PDAC, thus inducing reactive stroma, modulating immunosuppression, and promoting tumor progression. Reducing oxidative stress may be a promising future therapeutic regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Experimental ResearchSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Pancreatobiliary SurgerySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Chaobin He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Experimental ResearchSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Pancreatobiliary SurgerySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Xin Hua
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Experimental ResearchSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Medical OncologySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Anna Kan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Experimental ResearchSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Hepatic SurgerySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Yize Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Experimental ResearchSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Pancreatobiliary SurgerySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Shuxin Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Experimental ResearchSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Pancreatobiliary SurgerySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Fangting Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Experimental ResearchSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Pancreatobiliary SurgerySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Jun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Experimental ResearchSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Pancreatobiliary SurgerySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Peng Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Experimental ResearchSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
| | - Shengping Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer MedicineSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Experimental ResearchSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
- Department of Pancreatobiliary SurgerySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouPeople's Republic of China
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41
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Pro-neuronal activity of Myod1 due to promiscuous binding to neuronal genes. Nat Cell Biol 2020; 22:401-411. [PMID: 32231311 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-020-0490-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The on-target pioneer factors Ascl1 and Myod1 are sequence-related but induce two developmentally unrelated lineages-that is, neuronal and muscle identities, respectively. It is unclear how these two basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) factors mediate such fundamentally different outcomes. The chromatin binding of Ascl1 and Myod1 was surprisingly similar in fibroblasts, yet their transcriptional outputs were drastically different. We found that quantitative binding differences explained differential chromatin remodelling and gene activation. Although strong Ascl1 binding was exclusively associated with bHLH motifs, strong Myod1-binding sites were co-enriched with non-bHLH motifs, possibly explaining why Ascl1 is less context dependent. Finally, we observed that promiscuous binding of Myod1 to neuronal targets results in neuronal reprogramming when the muscle program is inhibited by Myt1l. Our findings suggest that chromatin access of on-target pioneer factors is primarily driven by the protein-DNA interaction, unlike ordinary context-dependent transcription factors, and that promiscuous transcription factor binding requires specific silencing mechanisms to ensure lineage fidelity.
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42
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Unprecedented Potential for Neural Drug Discovery Based on Self-Organizing hiPSC Platforms. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25051150. [PMID: 32143423 PMCID: PMC7179160 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25051150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have transformed conventional drug discovery pathways in recent years. In particular, recent advances in hiPSC biology, including organoid technologies, have highlighted a new potential for neural drug discovery with clear advantages over the use of primary tissues. This is important considering the financial and social burden of neurological health care worldwide, directly impacting the life expectancy of many populations. Patient-derived iPSCs-neurons are invaluable tools for novel drug-screening and precision medicine approaches directly aimed at reducing the burden imposed by the increasing prevalence of neurological disorders in an aging population. 3-Dimensional self-assembled or so-called ‘organoid’ hiPSCs cultures offer key advantages over traditional 2D ones and may well be gamechangers in the drug-discovery quest for neurological disorders in the coming years.
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43
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Ishikawa M, Aoyama T, Shibata S, Sone T, Miyoshi H, Watanabe H, Nakamura M, Morota S, Uchino H, Yoo AS, Okano H. miRNA-Based Rapid Differentiation of Purified Neurons from hPSCs Advancestowards Quick Screening for Neuronal Disease Phenotypes In Vitro. Cells 2020; 9:E532. [PMID: 32106535 PMCID: PMC7140514 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Obtaining differentiated cells with high physiological functions by an efficient, but simple and rapid differentiation method is crucial for modeling neuronal diseases in vitro using human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). Currently, methods involving the transient expression of one or a couple of transcription factors have been established as techniques for inducing neuronal differentiation in a rapid, single step. It has also been reported that microRNAs can function as reprogramming effectors for directly reprogramming human dermal fibroblasts to neurons. In this study, we tested the effect of adding neuronal microRNAs, miRNA-9/9*, and miR-124 (miR-9/9*-124), for the neuronal induction method of hPSCs using Tet-On-driven expression of the Neurogenin2 gene (Ngn2), a proneural factor. While it has been established that Ngn2 can facilitate differentiation from pluripotent stem cells into neurons with high purity due to its neurogenic effect, a long or indefinite time is required for neuronal maturation with Ngn2 misexpression alone. With the present method, the cells maintained a high neuronal differentiation rate while exhibiting increased gene expression of neuronal maturation markers, spontaneous calcium oscillation, and high electrical activity with network bursts as assessed by a multipoint electrode system. Moreover, when applying this method to iPSCs from Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients with presenilin-1 (PS1) or presenilin-2 (PS2) mutations, cellular phenotypes such as increased amount of extracellular secretion of amyloid β42, abnormal oxygen consumption, and increased reactive oxygen species in the cells were observed in a shorter culture period than those previously reported. Therefore, it is strongly anticipated that the induction method combining Ngn2 and miR-9/9*-124 will enable more rapid and simple screening for various types of neuronal disease phenotypes and promote drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuru Ishikawa
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Takeshi Aoyama
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Shoichiro Shibata
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
| | - Takefumi Sone
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Miyoshi
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Watanabe
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Mari Nakamura
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Saori Morota
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Uchino
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
| | - Andrew S Yoo
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Hideyuki Okano
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
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44
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Wang J, Jiang X, Zhao L, Zuo S, Chen X, Zhang L, Lin Z, Zhao X, Qin Y, Zhou X, Yu XY. Lineage reprogramming of fibroblasts into induced cardiac progenitor cells by CRISPR/Cas9-based transcriptional activators. Acta Pharm Sin B 2020; 10:313-326. [PMID: 32082976 PMCID: PMC7016296 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2019.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Overexpression of exogenous lineage-determining factors succeeds in directly reprogramming fibroblasts to various cell types. Several studies have reported reprogramming of fibroblasts into induced cardiac progenitor cells (iCPCs). CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene activation is a potential approach for cellular reprogramming due to its high precision and multiplexing capacity. Here we show lineage reprogramming to iCPCs through a dead Cas9 (dCas9)-based transcription activation system. Targeted and robust activation of endogenous cardiac factors, including GATA4, HAND2, MEF2C and TBX5 (G, H, M and T; GHMT), can reprogram human fibroblasts toward iCPCs. The iCPCs show potentials to differentiate into cardiomyocytes, smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells in vitro. Addition of MEIS1 to GHMT induces cell cycle arrest in G2/M and facilitates cardiac reprogramming. Lineage reprogramming of human fibroblasts into iCPCs provides a promising cellular resource for disease modeling, drug discovery and individualized cardiac cell therapy.
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45
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Traxler L, Edenhofer F, Mertens J. Next-generation disease modeling with direct conversion: a new path to old neurons. FEBS Lett 2019; 593:3316-3337. [PMID: 31715002 PMCID: PMC6907729 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 10/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Within just over a decade, human reprogramming-based disease modeling has developed from a rather outlandish idea into an essential part of disease research. While iPSCs are a valuable tool for modeling developmental and monogenetic disorders, their rejuvenated identity poses limitations for modeling age-associated diseases. Direct cell-type conversion of fibroblasts into induced neurons (iNs) circumvents rejuvenation and preserves hallmarks of cellular aging. iNs are thus advantageous for modeling diseases that possess strong age-related and epigenetic contributions and can complement iPSC-based strategies for disease modeling. In this review, we provide an overview of the state of the art of direct iN conversion and describe the key epigenetic, transcriptomic, and metabolic changes that occur in converting fibroblasts. Furthermore, we summarize new insights into this fascinating process, particularly focusing on the rapidly changing criteria used to define and characterize in vitro-born human neurons. Finally, we discuss the unique features that distinguish iNs from other reprogramming-based neuronal cell models and how iNs are relevant to disease modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Traxler
- Department of GenomicsStem Cell Biology & Regenerative MedicineInstitute of Molecular Biology & CMBILeopold‐Franzens‐University InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
- Laboratory of GeneticsThe Salk Institute for Biological StudiesLa JollaCAUSA
| | - Frank Edenhofer
- Department of GenomicsStem Cell Biology & Regenerative MedicineInstitute of Molecular Biology & CMBILeopold‐Franzens‐University InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
| | - Jerome Mertens
- Department of GenomicsStem Cell Biology & Regenerative MedicineInstitute of Molecular Biology & CMBILeopold‐Franzens‐University InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
- Laboratory of GeneticsThe Salk Institute for Biological StudiesLa JollaCAUSA
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46
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Chen Y, Yi Y, Xu J, Chan WK, Loh YH. Re-entering the pluripotent state from blood lineage: promises and pitfalls of blood reprogramming. FEBS Lett 2019; 593:3244-3252. [PMID: 31691960 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Blood reprogramming, in which induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are derived from haematopoietic lineages, has rapidly advanced over the past decade. Since the first report using human blood, haematopoietic cell types from various sources, such as the peripheral bone marrow and cord blood, have been successfully reprogrammed. The volume of blood required has also decreased, from around tens of millilitres to a single finger-prick drop. Besides, while early studies were limited to reprogramming methods relying on viral integration, nonintegrating reprogramming systems for blood lineages have been subsequently established. Together, these improvements have made feasible the future clinical applications of blood-derived iPSCs. Here, we review the progress in blood reprogramming from various perspectives, including the starting materials and subsequent reprogramming strategies. We also discuss the downstream applications of blood-derived iPSCs, highlighting their clinical value in terms of disease modelling and therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Chen
- NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,Epigenetics and Cell Fates Laboratory, Programme in Stem Cell, Regenerative Medicine and Aging, A*STAR Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yao Yi
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,Epigenetics and Cell Fates Laboratory, Programme in Stem Cell, Regenerative Medicine and Aging, A*STAR Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jian Xu
- Department of Biological Sciences and Centre for BioImaging Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Woon-Khiong Chan
- NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yuin-Han Loh
- NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,Epigenetics and Cell Fates Laboratory, Programme in Stem Cell, Regenerative Medicine and Aging, A*STAR Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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47
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Essayan-Perez S, Zhou B, Nabet AM, Wernig M, Huang YWA. Modeling Alzheimer's disease with human iPS cells: advancements, lessons, and applications. Neurobiol Dis 2019; 130:104503. [PMID: 31202913 PMCID: PMC6689423 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2019.104503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
One in three people will develop Alzheimer's disease (AD) or another dementia and, despite intense research efforts, treatment options remain inadequate. Understanding the mechanisms of AD pathogenesis remains our principal hurdle to developing effective therapeutics to tackle this looming medical crisis. In light of recent discoveries from whole-genome sequencing and technical advances in humanized models, studying disease risk genes with induced human neural cells presents unprecedented advantages. Here, we first review the current knowledge of the proposed mechanisms underlying AD and focus on modern genetic insights to inform future studies. To highlight the utility of human pluripotent stem cell-based innovations, we then present an update on efforts in recapitulating the pathophysiology by induced neuronal, non-neuronal and a collection of brain cell types, departing from the neuron-centric convention. Lastly, we examine the translational potentials of such approaches, and provide our perspectives on the promise they offer to deepen our understanding of AD pathogenesis and to accelerate the development of intervention strategies for patients and risk carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Essayan-Perez
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, CA 94305, United States of America
| | - Bo Zhou
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, CA 94305, United States of America; Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine and Department of Pathology, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, CA 94305, United States of America
| | - Amber M Nabet
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, CA 94305, United States of America
| | - Marius Wernig
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine and Department of Pathology, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, CA 94305, United States of America
| | - Yu-Wen Alvin Huang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, CA 94305, United States of America.
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48
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Combination of Chemical and Neurotrophin Stimulation Modulates Neurotransmitter Receptor Expression and Activity in Transdifferentiating Human Adipose Stromal Cells. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2019; 15:851-863. [PMID: 31529274 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-019-09915-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Adipose stromal cells are promising tools for clinical applications in regeneration therapies, due to their ease of isolation from tissue and its high yield; however, their ability to transdifferentiate into neural phenotypes is still a matter of controversy. Here, we show that combined chemical and neurotrophin stimulation resulted in neuron-like morphology and regulated expression and activity of several genes involved in neurogenesis and neurotransmission as well as ion currents mediated by NMDA and GABA receptors. Among them, expression patterns of genes coding for kinin-B1 and B2, α7 nicotinic, M1, M3 and M4 muscarinic acetylcholine, glutamatergic (AMPA2 and mGlu2), purinergic P2Y1 and P2Y4 and GABAergic (GABA-A, β3-subunit) receptors and neuronal nitric oxide synthase were up-regulated compared to levels of undifferentiated cells. Simultaneously, expression levels of P2X1, P2X4, P2X7 and P2Y6 purinergic and M5 muscarinic acetylcholine receptors were down-regulated. Agonist-induced activity levels of the studied receptor classes also augmented during neuronal transdifferentiation. Transdifferentiated cells expressed high levels of neuronal β3-tubulin, NF-H, NeuN and MAP-2 proteins as well as increased ASCL1, MYT1 and POU3F2 gene expression known to drive neuronal fate determination. The presented work contributes to a better understanding of transdifferentiation induced by neurotrophins for a prospective broad spectrum of medical applications.
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49
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Song SY, Yoo J, Go S, Hong J, Sohn HS, Lee JR, Kang M, Jeong GJ, Ryu S, Kim SHL, Hwang NS, Char K, Kim BS. Cardiac-mimetic cell-culture system for direct cardiac reprogramming. Theranostics 2019; 9:6734-6744. [PMID: 31660065 PMCID: PMC6815967 DOI: 10.7150/thno.35574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Cardiovascular diseases often cause substantial heart damage and even heart failure due to the limited regenerative capacity of adult cardiomyocytes. The direct cardiac reprogramming of fibroblasts could be a promising therapeutic option for these patients. Although exogenous transcriptional factors can induce direct cardiac reprogramming, the reprogramming efficiency is too low to be used clinically. Herein, we introduce a cardiac-mimetic cell-culture system that resembles the microenvironment in the heart and provides interactions with cardiomyocytes and electrical cues to the cultured fibroblasts for direct cardiac reprogramming. Methods: Nano-thin and nano-porous membranes and heart like electric stimulus were used in the cardiac-mimetic cell-culture system. The human neonatal dermal fibroblasts containing cardiac transcription factors were plated on the membrane and cultured with the murine cardiomyocyte in the presence of the electric stimulus. The reprogramming efficiency was evaluated by qRT-PCR and immunocytochemistry. Results: Nano-thin and nano-porous membranes in the culture system facilitated interactions between fibroblasts and cardiomyocytes in coculture. The cellular interactions and electric stimulation supplied by the culture system dramatically enhanced the cardiac reprogramming efficiency of cardiac-specific transcriptional factor-transfected fibroblasts. Conclusion: The cardiac-mimetic culture system may serve as an effective tool for producing a feasible number of reprogrammed cardiomyocytes from fibroblasts.
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50
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Maussion G, Demirova I, Gorwood P, Ramoz N. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells; New Tools for Investigating Molecular Mechanisms in Anorexia Nervosa. Front Nutr 2019; 6:118. [PMID: 31457016 PMCID: PMC6700384 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2019.00118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a dramatic psychiatric disorder characterized by dysregulations in food intake and reward processing, involving molecular and cellular changes in several peripheral cell types and central neuronal networks. Genomic and epigenomic analyses have allowed the identification of multiple genetic and epigenetic modifications highlighting the complex pathophysiology of AN. Behavioral and genetic rodent models have been used to recapitulate and investigate, with some limitations, the cellular and molecular changes that potentially underlie eating disorders. In the last 5 years, the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (IPSCs), combined with CRISPR-Cas9 technology, has led to the generation of specific neuronal cell subtypes engineered from human somatic samples, representing a powerful tool to complement observations made in human samples and data collected from animal models. Systems biology using IPSCs has indeed proved to be a valuable approach for the study of metabolic disorders, in addition to neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. The manuscript, while reviewing the main findings related to the genetic, epigenetic, and cellular bases of AN, will present how new studies published, or to be performed, in the field of IPSC-derived cells should improve our current understanding of the pathophysiology of AN and provide potential therapeutic strategies addressing specific endophenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilles Maussion
- Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Iveta Demirova
- Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Philip Gorwood
- INSERM U1266, Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Paris, Paris, France.,Hôpital Sainte-Anne (CMME), University Paris-Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Ramoz
- INSERM U1266, Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Paris, Paris, France
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