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Rentzsch P, Kollotzek A, Mohammadi P, Lappalainen T. Recalibrating differential gene expression by genetic dosage variance prioritizes functionally relevant genes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.10.588830. [PMID: 38645217 PMCID: PMC11030425 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.10.588830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Differential expression (DE) analysis is a widely used method for identifying genes that are functionally relevant for an observed phenotype or biological response. However, typical DE analysis includes selection of genes based on a threshold of fold change in expression under the implicit assumption that all genes are equally sensitive to dosage changes of their transcripts. This tends to favor highly variable genes over more constrained genes where even small changes in expression may be biologically relevant. To address this limitation, we have developed a method to recalibrate each gene's differential expression fold change based on genetic expression variance observed in the human population. The newly established metric ranks statistically differentially expressed genes not by nominal change of expression, but by relative change in comparison to natural dosage variation for each gene. We apply our method to RNA sequencing datasets from rare disease and in-vitro stimulus response experiments. Compared to the standard approach, our method adjusts the bias in discovery towards highly variable genes, and enriches for pathways and biological processes related to metabolic and regulatory activity, indicating a prioritization of functionally relevant driver genes. With that, our method provides a novel view on DE and contributes towards bridging the existing gap between statistical and biological significance. We believe that this approach will simplify the identification of disease causing genes and enhance the discovery of therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Rentzsch
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Gene Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden
| | - Aaron Kollotzek
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Gene Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden
| | - Pejman Mohammadi
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Genome Science, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Tuuli Lappalainen
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Gene Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden
- New York Genome Center, New York, NY, USA
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Nisar S, Haris M. Neuroimaging genetics approaches to identify new biomarkers for the early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:4995-5008. [PMID: 37069342 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02060-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Autism-spectrum disorders (ASDs) are developmental disabilities that manifest in early childhood and are characterized by qualitative abnormalities in social behaviors, communication skills, and restrictive or repetitive behaviors. To explore the neurobiological mechanisms in ASD, extensive research has been done to identify potential diagnostic biomarkers through a neuroimaging genetics approach. Neuroimaging genetics helps to identify ASD-risk genes that contribute to structural and functional variations in brain circuitry and validate biological changes by elucidating the mechanisms and pathways that confer genetic risk. Integrating artificial intelligence models with neuroimaging data lays the groundwork for accurate diagnosis and facilitates the identification of early diagnostic biomarkers for ASD. This review discusses the significance of neuroimaging genetics approaches to gaining a better understanding of the perturbed neurochemical system and molecular pathways in ASD and how these approaches can detect structural, functional, and metabolic changes and lead to the discovery of novel biomarkers for the early diagnosis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabah Nisar
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Mohammad Haris
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar.
- Center for Advanced Metabolic Imaging in Precision Medicine, Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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3
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Ryan NM, Heron EA. Evidence for parent-of-origin effects in autism spectrum disorder: a narrative review. J Appl Genet 2023; 64:303-317. [PMID: 36710277 PMCID: PMC10076404 DOI: 10.1007/s13353-022-00742-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous group of early-onset neurodevelopmental disorders known to be highly heritable with a complex genetic architecture. Abnormal brain developmental trajectories that impact synaptic functioning, excitation-inhibition balance and brain connectivity are now understood to play a central role in ASD. Ongoing efforts to identify the genetic underpinnings still prove challenging, in part due to phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity.This review focuses on parent-of-origin effects (POEs), where the phenotypic effect of an allele depends on its parental origin. POEs include genomic imprinting, transgenerational effects, mitochondrial DNA, sex chromosomes and mutational transmission bias. The motivation for investigating these mechanisms in ASD has been driven by their known impacts on early brain development and brain functioning, in particular for the most well-documented POE, genomic imprinting. Moreover, imprinting is implicated in syndromes such as Angelman and Prader-Willi, which frequently share comorbid symptoms with ASD. In addition to other regions in the genome, this comprehensive review highlights the 15q11-q13 and 7q chromosomal regions as well as the mitochondrial DNA as harbouring the majority of currently identified POEs in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niamh M Ryan
- Neuropsychiatric Genetics Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Elizabeth A Heron
- Neuropsychiatric Genetics Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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Arjun McKinney A, Petrova R, Panagiotakos G. Calcium and activity-dependent signaling in the developing cerebral cortex. Development 2022; 149:276624. [PMID: 36102617 PMCID: PMC9578689 DOI: 10.1242/dev.198853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Calcium influx can be stimulated by various intra- and extracellular signals to set coordinated gene expression programs into motion. As such, the precise regulation of intracellular calcium represents a nexus between environmental cues and intrinsic genetic programs. Mounting genetic evidence points to a role for the deregulation of intracellular calcium signaling in neuropsychiatric disorders of developmental origin. These findings have prompted renewed enthusiasm for understanding the roles of calcium during normal and dysfunctional prenatal development. In this Review, we describe the fundamental mechanisms through which calcium is spatiotemporally regulated and directs early neurodevelopmental events. We also discuss unanswered questions about intracellular calcium regulation during the emergence of neurodevelopmental disease, and provide evidence that disruption of cell-specific calcium homeostasis and/or redeployment of developmental calcium signaling mechanisms may contribute to adult neurological disorders. We propose that understanding the normal developmental events that build the nervous system will rely on gaining insights into cell type-specific calcium signaling mechanisms. Such an understanding will enable therapeutic strategies targeting calcium-dependent mechanisms to mitigate disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpana Arjun McKinney
- University of California 1 Graduate Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology , , San Francisco, CA 94143 , USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California 2 , San Francisco, CA 94143 , USA
- University of California 3 Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics , , San Francisco, CA 94143 , USA
- Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California 4 , San Francisco, CA 94143 , USA
| | - Ralitsa Petrova
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California 2 , San Francisco, CA 94143 , USA
- University of California 3 Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics , , San Francisco, CA 94143 , USA
- Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California 4 , San Francisco, CA 94143 , USA
| | - Georgia Panagiotakos
- University of California 1 Graduate Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology , , San Francisco, CA 94143 , USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California 2 , San Francisco, CA 94143 , USA
- University of California 3 Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics , , San Francisco, CA 94143 , USA
- Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California 4 , San Francisco, CA 94143 , USA
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GABA Receptor SNPs and Elevated Plasma GABA Levels Affect the Severity of the Indian ASD Probands. J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:1300-1312. [PMID: 35562522 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-022-02023-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Altered signaling of the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), has been speculated in the etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We have investigated the association of six GABAA-receptor genetic variants and plasma GABA levels with ASD. Subjects were recruited based on the DSM, and CARS2-ST and ADI-R assessed disease severity. Peripheral blood was collected from the ASD probands (N = 251), their parents, and ethnically matched controls (N = 347). A positive correlation between the CARS2-ST and ADI-R scores was observed; domain scores of ADI-R were higher in the severe group categorized by the CARS2-ST. GABRB3 rs1432007 "A," GABRG3 rs897173 "A," and GABRA5 rs140682 "T" showed significant association with ASD. Trait scores were influenced by rs1432007 "AA" and rs140682 "TT." GABA level was significantly higher in the probands than the age-matched controls. Our findings indicate an influence of GABA in the etiology of ASD in the Indian probands.
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Tan Z, Wei H, Song X, Mai W, Yan J, Ye W, Ling X, Hou L, Zhang S, Yan S, Xu H, Wang L. Positron Emission Tomography in the Neuroimaging of Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Review. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:806876. [PMID: 35495051 PMCID: PMC9043810 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.806876] [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: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a basket term for neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by marked impairments in social interactions, repetitive and stereotypical behaviors, and restricted interests and activities. Subtypes include (A) disorders with known genetic abnormalities including fragile X syndrome, Rett syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis and (B) idiopathic ASD, conditions with unknown etiologies. Positron emission tomography (PET) is a molecular imaging technology that can be utilized in vivo for dynamic and quantitative research, and is a valuable tool for exploring pathophysiological mechanisms, evaluating therapeutic efficacy, and accelerating drug development in ASD. Recently, several imaging studies on ASD have been published and physiological changes during ASD progression was disclosed by PET. This paper reviews the specific radioligands for PET imaging of critical biomarkers in ASD, and summarizes and discusses the similar and different discoveries in outcomes of previous studies. It is of great importance to identify general physiological changes in cerebral glucose metabolism, cerebral blood flow perfusion, abnormalities in neurotransmitter systems, and inflammation in the central nervous system in ASD, which may provide excellent points for further ASD research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Tan
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huiyi Wei
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiubao Song
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wangxiang Mai
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiajian Yan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weijian Ye
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xueying Ling
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu Hou
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaojuan Zhang
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sen Yan
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Hao Xu,
| | - Lu Wang
- Center of Cyclotron and PET Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT-MRI Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Lu Wang,
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Mapelli L, Soda T, D’Angelo E, Prestori F. The Cerebellar Involvement in Autism Spectrum Disorders: From the Social Brain to Mouse Models. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073894. [PMID: 35409253 PMCID: PMC8998980 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are pervasive neurodevelopmental disorders that include a variety of forms and clinical phenotypes. This heterogeneity complicates the clinical and experimental approaches to ASD etiology and pathophysiology. To date, a unifying theory of these diseases is still missing. Nevertheless, the intense work of researchers and clinicians in the last decades has identified some ASD hallmarks and the primary brain areas involved. Not surprisingly, the areas that are part of the so-called “social brain”, and those strictly connected to them, were found to be crucial, such as the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, hippocampus, limbic system, and dopaminergic pathways. With the recent acknowledgment of the cerebellar contribution to cognitive functions and the social brain, its involvement in ASD has become unmistakable, though its extent is still to be elucidated. In most cases, significant advances were made possible by recent technological developments in structural/functional assessment of the human brain and by using mouse models of ASD. Mouse models are an invaluable tool to get insights into the molecular and cellular counterparts of the disease, acting on the specific genetic background generating ASD-like phenotype. Given the multifaceted nature of ASD and related studies, it is often difficult to navigate the literature and limit the huge content to specific questions. This review fulfills the need for an organized, clear, and state-of-the-art perspective on cerebellar involvement in ASD, from its connections to the social brain areas (which are the primary sites of ASD impairments) to the use of monogenic mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Mapelli
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (T.S.); (E.D.)
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (F.P.)
| | - Teresa Soda
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (T.S.); (E.D.)
| | - Egidio D’Angelo
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (T.S.); (E.D.)
- Brain Connectivity Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesca Prestori
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (T.S.); (E.D.)
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (F.P.)
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Hnoonual A, Kor-Anantakul P, Charalsawadi C, Worachotekamjorn J, Limprasert P. Case Report: An Atypical Angelman Syndrome Case With Obesity and Fulfilled Autism Spectrum Disorder Identified by Microarray. Front Genet 2021; 12:755605. [PMID: 34630535 PMCID: PMC8494305 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.755605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders which are etiologically heterogeneous. Chromosomal microarray is now recommended as the first-tier clinical diagnostic test for ASD. We performed chromosomal microarray in 16 Thai patients with ASD using an Illumina HumanCytoSNP-12 v2.1 array and found one case with uniparental disomy (UPD) of chromosome 15. Methylation-specific PCR showed abnormal methylation of the maternal SNRPN allele. Haplotype analysis revealed that the patient had received both chromosomes 15 from his father. These results were consistent with Angelman syndrome. However, his clinical features had no clinical significance for classic Angelman syndrome. He had first presented at the pediatric clinic with no speech, poor social interaction skills and repetitive behaviors consistent with ASD based on the DSM-IV criteria at 2 years of age and later confirmed by ADOS at 5 years of age. He was strikingly overweight but had no dysmorphic facies, seizures nor ataxia and was diagnosed as non-syndromic ASD, a diagnosis which was believed until at 10 years of age, his DNA was included for analysis in this current cohort study. Our findings suggest that ASD patients with unknown etiology should be considered for methylation-specific PCR testing for Angelman syndrome where chromosomal microarray is not available. In the study, we also review the clinical features of Angelman syndrome caused by UPD and the frequency of ASD in individuals with Angelman syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areerat Hnoonual
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Phawin Kor-Anantakul
- Center of Excellence for Medical Genomics, Medical Genomics Cluster, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Excellence Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chariyawan Charalsawadi
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
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Comparan-Meza M, Vargas de la Cruz I, Jauregui-Huerta F, Gonzalez-Castañeda RE, Gonzalez-Perez O, Galvez-Contreras AY. Biopsychological correlates of repetitive and restricted behaviors in autism spectrum disorders. Brain Behav 2021; 11:e2341. [PMID: 34472728 PMCID: PMC8553330 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is considered a neurodevelopmental condition that is characterized by alterations in social interaction and communication, as well as patterns of restrictive and repetitive behaviors (RRBs). RRBs are defined as broad behaviors that comprise stereotypies, insistence on sameness, and attachment to objects or routines. RRBs can be divided into lower-level behaviors (motor, sensory, and object-manipulation behaviors) and higher-level behaviors (restrictive interests, insistence on sameness, and repetitive language). According to the DSM-5, the grade of severity in ASD partially depends on the frequency of RRBs and their consequences for disrupting the life of patients, affecting their adaptive skills, and increasing the need for parental support. METHODS We conducted a systematic review to examine the biopsychological correlates of the symptomatic domains of RRBs according to the type of RRBs (lower- or higher-level). We searched for articles from the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) using the terms: autism spectrum disorders, ASD, and autism-related to executive functions, inhibitory control, inflexibility, cognitive flexibility, hyper or hypo connectivity, and behavioral approaches. For describing the pathophysiological mechanism of ASD, we also included animal models and followed PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS One hundred and thirty-one articles were analyzed to explain the etiology, continuance, and clinical evolution of these behaviors observed in ASD patients throughout life. CONCLUSIONS Biopsychological correlates involved in the origin of RRBs include alterations in a) neurotransmission system, b) brain volume, c) inadequate levels of growth factors, d) hypo- or hyper-neural connectivity, e) impairments in behavioral inhibition, cognitive flexibility, and monitoring and f) non-stimulating environments. Understanding these lower- and higher-level of RRBs can help professionals to improve or design novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Comparan-Meza
- Maestría en Neuropsicología, Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico
| | - Ivette Vargas de la Cruz
- Unidad de Atención en Neurociencias, Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico
| | - Fernando Jauregui-Huerta
- Laboratorio de Microscopia de Alta Resolución, Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico
| | - Rocio E Gonzalez-Castañeda
- Laboratorio de Microscopia de Alta Resolución, Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico
| | - Oscar Gonzalez-Perez
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Colima, Colima, COL, Mexico
| | - Alma Y Galvez-Contreras
- Unidad de Atención en Neurociencias, Departamento de Neurociencias, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud (CUCS), Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, JAL, Mexico
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Abstract
Autism is a common and complex neurologic disorder whose scientific underpinnings have begun to be established in the past decade. The essence of this breakthrough has been a focus on families, where genetic analyses are strongest, versus large-scale, case-control studies. Autism genetics has progressed in parallel with technology, from analyses of copy number variation to whole-exome sequencing (WES) and whole-genome sequencing (WGS). Gene mutations causing complete loss of function account for perhaps one-third of cases, largely detected through WES. This limitation has increased interest in understanding the regulatory variants of genes that contribute in more subtle ways to the disorder. Strategies combining biochemical analysis of gene regulation, WGS analysis of the noncoding genome, and machine learning have begun to succeed. The emerging picture is that careful control of the amounts of transcription, mRNA, and proteins made by key brain genes-stoichiometry-plays a critical role in defining the clinical features of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Darnell
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-Oncology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA;
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Puig-Lagunes ÁA, Rocha L, Morgado-Valle C, BeltrÁn-Parrazal L, LÓpez-Meraz ML. Brain and plasma amino acid concentration in infant rats prenatally exposed to valproic acid. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2021; 93:e20190861. [PMID: 33729379 DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765202120190861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder is associated with alterations in GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission. Here, we aimed to determine the concentration of GABA, glutamate, glutamine, aspartate, taurine, and glycine in brain tissue and plasma of rats prenatally exposed to valproic acid (VPA), a well-characterized experimental model of autism. Pregnant rats were injected with VPA (600mg/Kg) during the twelfth-embryonic-day. Control rats were injected with saline. On the fourteen-postnatal-day, rats from both groups (males and females) were anesthetized, euthanized by decapitation and their brain dissected out. The frontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala, brain stem and cerebellum were dissected and homogenized. Homogenates were centrifuged and supernatants were used to quantify amino acid concentrations by HPLC coupled with fluorometric detection. Blood samples were obtained by a cardiac puncture; plasma was separated and deproteinized to quantify amino acid concentration by HPLC. We found that, in VPA rats, glutamate and glutamine concentrations were increased in hippocampus and glycine concentration was increased in cortex. We did not find changes in other regions or in plasma amino acid concentration in the VPA group with respect to control group. Our results suggest that VPA exposure in utero may impair inhibitory and excitatory amino acid transmission in the infant brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángel Alberto Puig-Lagunes
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, Médicos y Odontólogos, s/n, Col. Unidad del Bosque, 91010 Xalapa, Veracruz, México
| | - Luisa Rocha
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Cinvestav, Calzada de los Tenorios, 235, 14330 Col. Granjas Coapa, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Consuelo Morgado-Valle
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, Médicos y Odontólogos, s/n, Col. Unidad del Bosque, 91010 Xalapa, Veracruz, México
| | - Luis BeltrÁn-Parrazal
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, Médicos y Odontólogos, s/n, Col. Unidad del Bosque, 91010 Xalapa, Veracruz, México
| | - MarÍa-Leonor LÓpez-Meraz
- Centro de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, Médicos y Odontólogos, s/n, Col. Unidad del Bosque, 91010 Xalapa, Veracruz, México
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Adak P, Sinha S, Banerjee N. An Association Study of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid Type A Receptor Variants and Susceptibility to Autism Spectrum Disorders. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 51:4043-4053. [PMID: 33442857 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04865-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
In this pilot study, we aim to identify the role of few genetic variants of GABA-receptor type A subunits GABRB3 (rs4906902, rs7171660), GABRG3 (rs208129, rs140679), GABRA5 (rs 140681) in the aetiology of autism spectrum disorders in a population of West Bengal. 192 ASD probands, their parents and 184 ethnically-matched healthy controls were recruited for the study. The rs4906902G and the rs140679T conferred significant risk towards ASD. rs7171660 and rs140679 had transmission bias in the family. Neither alleles of rs 208129 and rs 140681 showed significant over-representation in either groups. All these variants were associated with at least one deficit in ASD-associated phenotypes like 'relating to people', 'Imitation', 'emotional response', 'body use', 'taste, smell, touch response' and 'activity levels'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pallabi Adak
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, 482 Madudah, Plot I-24, Sector J, E.M. Bypass, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700107, India
| | - Swagata Sinha
- Out Patient Department, Manovikas Kendra, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700107, India
| | - Nilanjana Banerjee
- Manovikas Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Centre, Manovikas Kendra, 482 Madudah, Plot I-24, Sector J, E.M. Bypass, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700107, India.
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Leader G, Forde J, Naughton K, Maher L, Arndt S, Mannion A. Relationships among gastrointestinal symptoms, sleep problems, challenging behaviour, comorbid psychopathology and autism spectrum disorder symptoms in children and adolescents with 15q duplication syndrome. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2021; 65:32-46. [PMID: 33073413 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Comorbidity is the presence of at least two disorders in one person at one time. This study examined the frequency of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, sleep problems, comorbid psychopathology, challenging behaviour and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms in children and adolescents with duplication 15q syndrome (Dup15q), aged 3-17 years. This study also examined whether challenging behaviour in Dup15q is predicted by age, gender, presence of an intellectual disability, sleep problems, GI symptoms and comorbid psychopathology. METHOD Parental measures were completed by 101 parents of children and adolescents with Dup15q. Questionnaires were composed of the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire, Behavior Problems Inventory - Short Form, GI Symptom Inventory, Social Communication Questionnaire and the Child Behavior Checklist. RESULTS Sleep problems (94%), GI symptoms (87%) and challenging behaviour (100%) were common comorbidities represented in the sample in this study. Significant relationships were found between challenging behaviour and the presence of co-occurring sleep problems, GI symptoms, comorbid psychopathology and ASD symptoms. Further analysis revealed that these comorbidities also predicted challenging behaviour. CONCLUSION This research demonstrated the importance of studying the relationships between GI symptoms, sleep problems, comorbid psychopathology, ASD symptoms and challenging behaviour in Dup15q and how these conditions can shape the Dup15q phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Leader
- Irish Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Research (ICAN), School of Psychology, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - J Forde
- Irish Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Research (ICAN), School of Psychology, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - K Naughton
- Irish Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Research (ICAN), School of Psychology, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - L Maher
- Irish Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Research (ICAN), School of Psychology, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - S Arndt
- Irish Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Research (ICAN), School of Psychology, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - A Mannion
- Irish Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Research (ICAN), School of Psychology, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
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Zhao X, Zhang R, Yu S. Mutation screening of the UBE3A gene in Chinese Han population with autism. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:589. [PMID: 33308194 PMCID: PMC7733270 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-03000-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 15q11-13 region is one of the most complex chromosomal regions in the human genome. UBE3A is an important candidate gene of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which located at the 15q11-13 region and encodes ubiquitin-protein ligase E3A. Previous studies about UBE3A gene and ASD have shown inconsistent results and few studies were performed in Chinese population. This study aimed to detect the genetic mutations of UBE3A gene in Chinese Han population with ASD and analyze genetic association between these variants and ASD. METHODS The samples consisted of 192 patients with autism according to the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria and 192 healthy controls. We searched for mutations at coding sequence (CDS) regions and their adjacent non-coding regions of UBE3A gene using the high resolution melting (HRM) and Sanger sequencing methods. We further increased sample size to validate the detected variants using HRM and conducted association analysis between case and control groups. RESULTS A known single nucleotide polymorphism (T > C, rs150331504) located at the CDS4 and a known 5 bp insertion/deletion variation (AACTC+/-, rs71127053) located at the intron region of the upstream 288 bp of the CDS2 of UBE3A gene were detected using Sanger sequencing method. The ASD samples of case group were 391 for rs71127053, 384 for rs150331504 and 384 healthy controls, which were used to make an association analysis. The results of association analysis suggested that there were no significant difference about the allele and genotype frequencies of rs71127053 and rs150331504 between case and control groups after extending the sample size. Besides, rs150331504 is a synonymous mutation and we compared the secondary structure and minimum free energy (MFE) of mRNA harboring the allele T or C of rs150331504 using RNAfold software. We found that the centroid secondary structure apparently differs along with the polymorphisms of rs150331504 T > C, the results suggested that this variant might change the secondary structure of mRNA of UBE3A gene. We did not detect mutations in other coding regions of UBE3A gene. CONCLUSIONS These findings showed that UBE3A gene might not be a major disease gene in Chinese ASD cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Zhao
- grid.16821.3c0000 0004 0368 8293Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wanping Nan Road, Shanghai, 200030 China
| | - Ran Zhang
- grid.16821.3c0000 0004 0368 8293Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wanping Nan Road, Shanghai, 200030 China
| | - Shunying Yu
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wanping Nan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China.
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Mutual Interaction of Clinical Factors and Specific microRNAs to Predict Mild Cognitive Impairment in Patients Receiving Hemodialysis. Cells 2020; 9:cells9102303. [PMID: 33076478 PMCID: PMC7650531 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive impairment (CI) is not uncommon in dialysis patients. Various factors have been implicated. This study aims to examine mutual interaction of various clinical factors for CI in patients receiving hemodialysis. A total of 48 hemodialysis patients in outpatient clinic were recruited from 2015 to 2017. Demographics, circulating uremic toxin concentrations, miRNA concentrations, and nerve injury protein concentrations were collected. Clinical dementia rating (CDR) scores were used to stratify the functional scores of the patients. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate diagnostic test performance for predicting dichotomous results, and cumulative ROC analysis was used to examine the combined contribution of clinical factors. CDR scale 0 included 15 patients (mean age, 59.1 years); CDR > 0.5 included 33 patients (mean age, 64.0 years). On cumulative ROC analysis, the major predictors of mild CI were hemoglobin, age, sex, homocysteine, neuron-specific enolase (NSE), and miR-486. The cumulative area under the curve (AUC) on combining hemoglobin, age, and miR-486 was the highest (0.897, 95% confidence interval 0.806–0.988). Two dichotomized variables reached 81.82% sensitivity and 86.67% specificity, with the likelihood ratio for positive and negative results being 6.14 and 0.21, respectively. In conclusion, hemoglobin, age, and miR-486 display high-degree combined effects on mild CI in patients receiving hemodialysis.
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Di J, Li J, O’Hara B, Alberts I, Xiong L, Li J, Li X. The role of GABAergic neural circuits in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder. Int J Dev Neurosci 2020; 80:73-85. [DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Di
- Department of Neurology David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA Los Angeles CA USA
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Pediatrics the Second Xiangya HospitalCentral South University Changsha P.R. China
| | - Bruce O’Hara
- Department of Biology University of Kentucky Lexington KY USA
| | - Ian Alberts
- Department of Natural Sciences LaGuardia CCCUNY New York NY USA
| | - Lei Xiong
- Department of Clinical Medicine Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine Kunming P.R. China
| | - Jijun Li
- Department of Integrative Medicine on Pediatrics Shanghai Children’s Medical Center Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Shanghai P.R. China
| | - Xiaohong Li
- Department of Neurochemistry New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities New York NY USA
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Germain ND, Levine ES, Chamberlain SJ. IPSC Models of Chromosome 15Q Imprinting Disorders: From Disease Modeling to Therapeutic Strategies. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 25:55-77. [PMID: 32578144 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-45493-7_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The chromosome 15q11-q13 region of the human genome is regulated by genomic imprinting, an epigenetic phenomenon in which genes are expressed exclusively from one parental allele. Several genes within the 15q11-q13 region are expressed exclusively from the paternally inherited chromosome 15. At least one gene UBE3A, shows exclusive expression of the maternal allele, but this allele-specific expression is restricted to neurons. The appropriate regulation of imprinted gene expression across chromosome 15q11-q13 has important implications for human disease. Three different neurodevelopmental disorders result from aberrant expression of imprinted genes in this region: Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), Angelman syndrome (AS), and 15q duplication syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelle D Germain
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Eric S Levine
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.
| | - Stormy J Chamberlain
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
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18
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Smith A, Storti S, Lukose R, Kulesza RJ. Structural and Functional Aberrations of the Auditory Brainstem in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Osteopath Med 2019; 119:41-50. [PMID: 30615041 DOI: 10.7556/jaoa.2019.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition associated with difficulties in the social, communicative, and behavioral domains. Most cases of ASD arise from an unknown etiologic process, but there are numerous risk factors, including comorbidities and maternal exposures. Although it is not part of the diagnostic criteria, hearing difficulties ranging from deafness to hyperacusis are present in the majority of persons with ASD. High-functioning children with ASD have been found to have significantly slower and asymmetric auditory brainstem reflexes. Additionally, histopathological studies of postmortem brainstems in decedents who had ASD have consistently revealed significantly fewer neurons in auditory nuclei compared with those in people who did not have ASD. The authors review the literature implicating auditory dysfunction in ASD along with results from human study participants and postmortem human brain tissue. Together, these results implicate significant structural and functional abnormalities in the auditory brainstem in ASD and support the utility of auditory testing to screen for ASD.
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Frohlich J, Reiter LT, Saravanapandian V, DiStefano C, Huberty S, Hyde C, Chamberlain S, Bearden CE, Golshani P, Irimia A, Olsen RW, Hipp JF, Jeste SS. Mechanisms underlying the EEG biomarker in Dup15q syndrome. Mol Autism 2019; 10:29. [PMID: 31312421 PMCID: PMC6609401 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-019-0280-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Duplications of 15q11.2-q13.1 (Dup15q syndrome), including the paternally imprinted gene UBE3A and three nonimprinted gamma-aminobutyric acid type-A (GABAA) receptor genes, are highly penetrant for neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). To guide targeted treatments of Dup15q syndrome and other forms of ASD, biomarkers are needed that reflect molecular mechanisms of pathology. We recently described a beta EEG phenotype of Dup15q syndrome, but it remains unknown which specific genes drive this phenotype. Methods To test the hypothesis that UBE3A overexpression is not necessary for the beta EEG phenotype, we compared EEG from a reference cohort of children with Dup15q syndrome (n = 27) to (1) the pharmacological effects of the GABAA modulator midazolam (n = 12) on EEG from healthy adults, (2) EEG from typically developing (TD) children (n = 14), and (3) EEG from two children with duplications of paternal 15q (i.e., the UBE3A-silenced allele). Results Peak beta power was significantly increased in the reference cohort relative to TD controls. Midazolam administration recapitulated the beta EEG phenotype in healthy adults with a similar peak frequency in central channels (f = 23.0 Hz) as Dup15q syndrome (f = 23.1 Hz). Both paternal Dup15q syndrome cases displayed beta power comparable to the reference cohort. Conclusions Our results suggest a critical role for GABAergic transmission in the Dup15q syndrome beta EEG phenotype, which cannot be explained by UBE3A dysfunction alone. If this mechanism is confirmed, the phenotype may be used as a marker of GABAergic pathology in clinical trials for Dup15q syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Frohlich
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Neuroscience, Ophthalmology and Rare Diseases, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Center for Autism Research and Treatment, University of California Los Angeles, Semel Institute for Neuroscience, Los Angeles, CA 90024 USA
- Department of Psychology, University of California Los Angeles, 3423 Franz Hall, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
| | - Lawrence T. Reiter
- Departments of Neurology, Pediatrics and Anatomy & Neurobiology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 855 Monroe Ave., Link, Memphis, TN 415 USA
| | - Vidya Saravanapandian
- Center for Autism Research and Treatment, University of California Los Angeles, Semel Institute for Neuroscience, Los Angeles, CA 90024 USA
| | - Charlotte DiStefano
- Center for Autism Research and Treatment, University of California Los Angeles, Semel Institute for Neuroscience, Los Angeles, CA 90024 USA
| | - Scott Huberty
- Center for Autism Research and Treatment, University of California Los Angeles, Semel Institute for Neuroscience, Los Angeles, CA 90024 USA
- McGill University, MUHC Research Institute, 5252, boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, 3E.19, Montreal, QC H4A 3S5 Canada
| | - Carly Hyde
- Center for Autism Research and Treatment, University of California Los Angeles, Semel Institute for Neuroscience, Los Angeles, CA 90024 USA
| | - Stormy Chamberlain
- Genetics and Genome Sciences, UConn Health, 400 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030-6403 USA
| | - Carrie E. Bearden
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences and Department of Psychology, University of California Los Angeles, Suite A7-460, 760 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
| | - Peyman Golshani
- Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, David Geffen School of Medicine, 710 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
| | - Andrei Irimia
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, 3715 McClintock Ave., Suite 228C, California, Los Angeles 90089 USA
| | - Richard W. Olsen
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, California, Los Angeles 90095 USA
| | - Joerg F. Hipp
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Neuroscience, Ophthalmology and Rare Diseases, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Shafali S. Jeste
- Center for Autism Research and Treatment, University of California Los Angeles, Semel Institute for Neuroscience, Los Angeles, CA 90024 USA
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20
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Salminen I, Read S, Hurd P, Crespi B. Genetic variation of UBE3A is associated with schizotypy in a population of typical individuals. Psychiatry Res 2019; 275:94-99. [PMID: 30897394 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2019.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The maternally expressed imprinted gene UBE3A has been implicated in autism, schizophrenia and psychosis. The phenotype of Angelman syndrome, caused by loss of UBE3A expression, involves autism spectrum traits, while Prader-Willi syndrome, where the genotype of maternal disomy increases dosage of UBE3A, shows high penetrance for the development of psychosis. Maternal duplications of the 15q11-q13 chromosome region that overlap the imprinted region also show an association with schizophrenia, further implying a connection between increased dosage of UBE3A and the development of schizophrenia and psychosis. We phenotyped a large population of typical individuals for autism spectrum and schizotypal traits and genotyped them for a set of SNPs in UBE3A. Genetic variation of rs732739, an intronic SNP tagging a large haplotype spanning nearly the entire range of UBE3A, was significantly associated with variation in total schizotypy. Our results provide an independent line of evidence, connecting the imprinted UBE3A gene to the schizophrenia spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iiro Salminen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada.
| | - Silven Read
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Pete Hurd
- Department of Psychology and Centre for Neuroscience, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Bernard Crespi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
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Murphy E, Benítez-Burraco A. Toward the Language Oscillogenome. Front Psychol 2018; 9:1999. [PMID: 30405489 PMCID: PMC6206218 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Language has been argued to arise, both ontogenetically and phylogenetically, from specific patterns of brain wiring. We argue that it can further be shown that core features of language processing emerge from particular phasal and cross-frequency coupling properties of neural oscillations; what has been referred to as the language ‘oscillome.’ It is expected that basic aspects of the language oscillome result from genetic guidance, what we will here call the language ‘oscillogenome,’ for which we will put forward a list of candidate genes. We have considered genes for altered brain rhythmicity in conditions involving language deficits: autism spectrum disorders, schizophrenia, specific language impairment and dyslexia. These selected genes map on to aspects of brain function, particularly on to neurotransmitter function. We stress that caution should be adopted in the construction of any oscillogenome, given the range of potential roles particular localized frequency bands have in cognition. Our aim is to propose a set of genome-to-language linking hypotheses that, given testing, would grant explanatory power to brain rhythms with respect to language processing and evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot Murphy
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Psychology, University of Westminster, London, United Kingdom
| | - Antonio Benítez-Burraco
- Department of Spanish Language, Linguistics and Literary Theory, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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22
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Wegiel J, Brown WT, La Fauci G, Adayev T, Kascsak R, Kascsak R, Flory M, Kaczmarski W, Kuchna I, Nowicki K, Martinez-Cerdeno V, Wisniewski T, Wegiel J. The role of reduced expression of fragile X mental retardation protein in neurons and increased expression in astrocytes in idiopathic and syndromic autism (duplications 15q11.2-q13). Autism Res 2018; 11:1316-1331. [PMID: 30107092 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS), caused by lack of fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP), is associated with a high prevalence of autism. The deficit of FMRP reported in idiopathic autism suggests a mechanistic overlap between FXS and autism. The overall goal of this study is to detect neuropathological commonalities of FMRP deficits in the brains of people with idiopathic autism and with syndromic autism caused by dup15q11.2-q13 (dup15). This study tests the hypothesis based on our preliminary data that both idiopathic and syndromic autism are associated with brain region-specific deficits of neuronal FMRP and structural changes of the affected neurons. This immunocytochemical study revealed neuronal FMRP deficits and shrinkage of deficient neurons in the cerebral cortex, subcortical structures, and cerebellum in subjects with idiopathic and dup(15)/autism. Neuronal FMRP deficit coexists with surprising infiltration of the brains of autistic children and adults with FMRP-positive astrocytes known to be typical only for the fetal and short postnatal periods. In the examined autistic subjects, these astrocytes selectively infiltrate the border between white and gray matter in the cerebral and cerebellar cortex, the molecular layer of the cortex, part of the amygdala and thalamus, central cerebellar white matter, and dentate nucleus. Astrocyte pathology results in an additional local loss of FMRP in neurons and their shrinkage. Neuronal deficit of FMRP and shrinkage of affected neurons in structures free of FMRP-positive astrocytes and regions infiltrated with FMRP-expressing astrocytes appear to reflect mechanistic, neuropathological, and functional commonalities of FMRP abnormalities in FXS and autism spectrum disorder. Autism Res 2018, 11: 1316-1331. © 2018 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: Immunocytochemistry reveals a deficit of fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) in neurons of cortical and subcortical brain structures but increased FMRP expression in astrocytes infiltrating gray and white matter. The detected shrinkage of FMRP-deficient neurons may provide a mechanistic explanation of reported neuronal structural and functional changes in autism. This study contributes to growing evidence of mechanistic commonalities between fragile X syndrome and autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarek Wegiel
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, NYS Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - W Ted Brown
- Department of Human Genetics, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Giuseppe La Fauci
- Department of Human Genetics, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Tatyana Adayev
- Department of Human Genetics, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Richard Kascsak
- Department of Developmental Biochemistry, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Regina Kascsak
- Department of Developmental Biochemistry, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Michael Flory
- Research Design and Analysis Service, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Wojciech Kaczmarski
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, NYS Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Izabela Kuchna
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, NYS Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Krzysztof Nowicki
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, NYS Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Veronica Martinez-Cerdeno
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Thomas Wisniewski
- Departments of Neurology, Pathology, and Psychiatry, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Jerzy Wegiel
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, NYS Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
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23
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Andersson JD, Matuskey D, Finnema SJ. Positron emission tomography imaging of the γ-aminobutyric acid system. Neurosci Lett 2018; 691:35-43. [PMID: 30102960 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Revised: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
In this review, we summarize the recent development of positron emission tomography (PET) radioligands for γ-aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptors and their potential to measure changes in endogenous GABA levels and highlight the clinical and translational applications of GABA-sensitive PET radioligands. We review the basic physiology of the GABA system with a focus on the importance of GABAA receptors in the brain and specifically the benzodiazepine binding site. Challenges for the development of central nervous system radioligands and particularly for radioligands with increased GABA sensitivity are outlined, as well as the status of established benzodiazepine site PET radioligands and agonist GABAA radioligands. We underline the challenge of using allosteric interactions to measure GABA concentrations and review the current state of PET imaging of changes in GABA levels. We conclude that PET tracers with increased GABA sensitivity are required to efficiently measure GABA release and that such a tool could be broadly applied to assess GABA transmission in vivo across several disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan D Andersson
- University of Alberta, Medical Isotope and Cyclotron Facility, Edmonton, Canada
| | - David Matuskey
- PET Center, Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sjoerd J Finnema
- PET Center, Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; Center for Psychiatric Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Meta-analysis of GABRB3 Gene Polymorphisms and Susceptibility to Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Mol Neurosci 2018; 65:432-437. [PMID: 30074174 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-018-1114-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Several lines of evidence have suggested that the GABA receptor subunit β3 (GABRB3) gene is a genetic contributor in the autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The aberrant expression of GABRB3 is reported in ASD patients which may be a consequence of the presence of certain genetic variants in the promoter region of the gene. The associations between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within this gene and ASD have been analyzed in previous studies. However, the results are conflicting. In the present study, we performed a meta-analysis on association between two SNPs located in the promoter region of GABRB3 gene (rs4906902 and rs20317) and ASD. The literature search was performed based on criteria provided by the meta-analysis of observational studies in epidemiology (MOOSE). The association between mentioned SNPs and ASD was calculated using pooled odd ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals. The result of the present meta-analysis indicates that neither rs4906902 nor rs20317 are significantly associated with the risk of ASD. The underlying mechanism of the aberrant expression of GABRB3 gene in ASD patients should be investigated in other biological levels.
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25
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Ferguson BR, Gao WJ. PV Interneurons: Critical Regulators of E/I Balance for Prefrontal Cortex-Dependent Behavior and Psychiatric Disorders. Front Neural Circuits 2018; 12:37. [PMID: 29867371 PMCID: PMC5964203 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2018.00037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 327] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Elucidating the prefrontal cortical microcircuit has been challenging, given its role in multiple complex behaviors, including working memory, cognitive flexibility, attention, social interaction and emotional regulation. Additionally, previous methodological limitations made it difficult to parse out the contribution of certain neuronal subpopulations in refining cortical representations. However, growing evidence supports a fundamental role of fast-spiking parvalbumin (PV) GABAergic interneurons in regulating pyramidal neuron activity to drive appropriate behavioral responses. Further, their function is heavily diminished in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) in numerous psychiatric diseases, including schizophrenia and autism. Previous research has demonstrated the importance of the optimal balance of excitation and inhibition (E/I) in cortical circuits in maintaining the efficiency of cortical information processing. Although we are still unraveling the mechanisms of information representation in the PFC, the E/I balance seems to be crucial, as pharmacological, chemogenetic and optogenetic approaches for disrupting E/I balance induce impairments in a range of PFC-dependent behaviors. In this review, we will explore two key hypotheses. First, PV interneurons are powerful regulators of E/I balance in the PFC, and help optimize the representation and processing of supramodal information in PFC. Second, diminishing the function of PV interneurons is sufficient to generate an elaborate symptom sequelae corresponding to those observed in a range of psychiatric diseases. Then, using this framework, we will speculate on whether this circuitry could represent a platform for the development of therapeutic interventions in disorders of PFC function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brielle R Ferguson
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Wen-Jun Gao
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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26
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Eissa N, Al-Houqani M, Sadeq A, Ojha SK, Sasse A, Sadek B. Current Enlightenment About Etiology and Pharmacological Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:304. [PMID: 29867317 PMCID: PMC5964170 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental brain disorder characterized by two core behavioral symptoms, namely impairments in social communication and restricted/repetitive behavior. The molecular mechanisms underlying ASD are not well understood. Recent genetic as well as non-genetic animal models contributed significantly in understanding the pathophysiology of ASD, as they establish autism-like behavior in mice and rats. Among the genetic causes, several chromosomal mutations including duplications or deletions could be possible causative factors of ASD. In addition, the biochemical basis suggests that several brain neurotransmitters, e.g., dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT), gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA), acetylcholine (ACh), glutamate (Glu) and histamine (HA) participate in the onset and progression of ASD. Despite of convincible understanding, risperidone and aripiprazole are the only two drugs available clinically for improving behavioral symptoms of ASD following approval by Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Till date, up to our knowledge there is no other drug approved for clinical usage specifically for ASD symptoms. However, many novel drug candidates and classes of compounds are underway for ASD at different phases of preclinical and clinical drug development. In this review, the diversity of numerous aetiological factors and the alterations in variety of neurotransmitter generation, release and function linked to ASD are discussed with focus on drugs currently used to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms related to ASD. The review also highlights the clinical development of drugs with emphasis on their pharmacological targets aiming at improving core symptoms in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nermin Eissa
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammed Al-Houqani
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Adel Sadeq
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University of Science and Technology, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shreesh K. Ojha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Astrid Sasse
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Bassem Sadek
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Mahdavi M, Kheirollahi M, Riahi R, Khorvash F, Khorrami M, Mirsafaie M. Meta-Analysis of the Association between GABA Receptor Polymorphisms and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). J Mol Neurosci 2018; 65:1-9. [PMID: 29725984 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-018-1073-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have reported the association of GABA receptor subunits B3, A5, and G3 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in chromosome 15q11-q13 with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). However, the currently available results are inconsistent. This study aimed to investigate the association between ASD and the GABA receptor SNPs in chromosomal region 15q11-q13. The association was calculated by the overall odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). We used sensitivity analyses and the assessment of publication bias in our meta-analysis. Eight independent case-control studies involving 1408 cases and 2846 healthy controls were analyzed, namely, 8 studies for GABRB3 SNPs as well as 4 studies for GABRA5 and GABRG3 polymorphisms. The meta-analysis showed that GABRB3 polymorphisms in general are not significantly associated with autism [OR = 0.846 (95% CI): 0.595-1.201, I2 = 79.1%]. Further analysis indicated that no associations were found between GABRB3 SNPs and autism on rs2081648 [OR = 0.84 (95% CI) = 0.41-1.72, I2 = 89.2%] and rs1426217 [OR = 1.13 (95% CI) = 0.64-2.0, I2 = 83%]. An OR of 0.95 (95% CI) = 0.77-1.17 was reported (I2 = 0.0%) for GABRA5 SNPs and an OR of 0.96 (95% CI) = 0.24-3.81 was obtained from GABRG3 SNPs (I2 = 97.8%). This meta-analysis provides strong evidence that different SNPs of GABA receptor B3, A5, and G3 subunit genes located on chromosome 15q11-q13 are not associated with the development of autism spectrum diseases in different ethnic populations. However, in future research, large-scale and high-quality studies are necessary to confirm the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manijeh Mahdavi
- Pediatric Inherited Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-communicable Disease and Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 81746-73461, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Majid Kheirollahi
- Pediatric Inherited Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-communicable Disease and Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 81746-73461, Isfahan, Iran. .,Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Roya Riahi
- Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Fariborz Khorvash
- Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khorrami
- Pediatric Inherited Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-communicable Disease and Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 81746-73461, Isfahan, Iran.,Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Maryam Mirsafaie
- Mohkam-kar Health Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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28
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Neural Hyperexcitability in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Brain Sci 2017; 7:brainsci7100129. [PMID: 29027913 PMCID: PMC5664056 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci7100129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Revised: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the progress that has been made in research on autism spectrum disorders (ASD), the understanding of the biological basis of ASD to identify targets for novel, effective treatment remains limited. One of the leading biological theories of autism is a model of cortical hyperexcitability. While numerous genetic and epigenetic studies support this model, how this particular biological alteration relates to known phenotypes in ASD is not well established. Using examples of sensory processing alterations, this review illustrates how cortical excitability may affect neural processes to result eventually in some core clinical phenotypes in ASD. Applications of the cortical excitability model for translational research and drug development are also discussed.
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29
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Ito H, Mori K, Harada M, Hisaoka S, Toda Y, Mori T, Goji A, Abe Y, Miyazaki M, Kagami S. A Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopic Study in Autism Spectrum Disorder Using a 3-Tesla Clinical Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) System: The Anterior Cingulate Cortex and the Left Cerebellum. J Child Neurol 2017; 32:731-739. [PMID: 28420309 DOI: 10.1177/0883073817702981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is not fully understood. We used proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy to investigate metabolite concentration ratios in the anterior cingulate cortex and left cerebellum in ASD. In the ACC and left cerebellum studies, the ASD group and intelligence quotient- and age-matched control group consisted of 112 and 114 subjects and 65 and 45 subjects, respectively. In the ASD group, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)+/ creatine/phosphocreatine (Cr) was significantly decreased in the anterior cingulate cortex, and glutamate (Glu)/Cr was significantly increased and GABA+/Cr was significantly decreased in the left cerebellum compared to those in the control group. In addition, both groups showed negative correlations between Glu/Cr and GABA+/Cr in the left cerebellum, and positive correlations between GABA+/Cr in the anterior cingulate cortex and left cerebellum. ASD subjects have hypoGABAergic alterations in the anterior cingulate cortex and hyperglutamatergic/hypoGABAergic alterations in the left cerebellum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromichi Ito
- 1 Department of Special Needs Education, Graduate School of Education, Naruto University of Education, Tokushima, Japan.,2 Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Kenji Mori
- 3 Department of Child Health & Nursing, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Masafumi Harada
- 4 Department of Radiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Sonoka Hisaoka
- 4 Department of Radiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Toda
- 2 Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Mori
- 2 Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Aya Goji
- 2 Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yoko Abe
- 2 Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Masahito Miyazaki
- 2 Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Shoji Kagami
- 2 Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
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30
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GABA A receptor subunit gene polymorphisms predict symptom-based and developmental deficits in Chinese Han children and adolescents with autistic spectrum disorders. Sci Rep 2017; 7:3290. [PMID: 28607477 PMCID: PMC5468250 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-03666-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
GABAA receptor subunit genes GABRB3, GABRA5, and GABRG3 located on chromosome 15q11-q13 have been implicated in the etiology of autistic spectrum disorders (ASD). This study intended to investigate the possible role of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) present in GABRB3 (rs2081648 and rs1426217), GABRA5 (rs35586628), and GABRG3 (rs208129) genes in ASD susceptibility and symptom-based and developmental phenotypes of ASD in Chinese Han children and adolescents. 99 ASD patients and 231 age- and gender- frequency-matched typical developing (TD) controls were tested by TaqMan® genotyping assay. Symptom-based phenotypes were evaluated by Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) and Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), and developmental phenotypes were assessed by Early Childhood Development Questionnaire (ECDQ) in ASD patients. Three haplotypes and global χ 2 test of all SNPs demonstrated significant associations between ASD and TD groups. Besides, GABRB3 rs2081648, GABRA5 rs35586628, and GABRG3 rs208129 polymorphisms were associated with symptom-based deficits in social interaction, sensorimotor and somatosensory coordination, visual response, imitation, activity level, language expression and adaptability. Developmental abnormalities in late emergences of social interaction and fine motor were detected in GABRB3 rs2081648 polymorphism. Overall results indicated that gene synergy may participate in ASD pathogenesis, and GABAA receptor gene polymorphisms can predict symptom-based and developmental deficits in ASD individuals.
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31
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Yin J, Schaaf CP. Autism genetics - an overview. Prenat Diagn 2016; 37:14-30. [DOI: 10.1002/pd.4942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Revised: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jiani Yin
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics; Baylor College of Medicine; Houston TX USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital; Houston TX USA
| | - Christian P. Schaaf
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics; Baylor College of Medicine; Houston TX USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital; Houston TX USA
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32
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Mullins C, Fishell G, Tsien RW. Unifying Views of Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Consideration of Autoregulatory Feedback Loops. Neuron 2016; 89:1131-1156. [PMID: 26985722 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2016.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms underlying autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) is a challenging goal. Here we review recent progress on several fronts, including genetics, proteomics, biochemistry, and electrophysiology, that raise motivation for forming a viable pathophysiological hypothesis. In place of a traditionally unidirectional progression, we put forward a framework that extends homeostatic hypotheses by explicitly emphasizing autoregulatory feedback loops and known synaptic biology. The regulated biological feature can be neuronal electrical activity, the collective strength of synapses onto a dendritic branch, the local concentration of a signaling molecule, or the relative strengths of synaptic excitation and inhibition. The sensor of the biological variable (which we have termed the homeostat) engages mechanisms that operate as negative feedback elements to keep the biological variable tightly confined. We categorize known ASD-associated gene products according to their roles in such feedback loops and provide detailed commentary for exemplar genes within each module.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Mullins
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Gord Fishell
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Richard W Tsien
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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33
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Benítez-Burraco A, Murphy E. The Oscillopathic Nature of Language Deficits in Autism: From Genes to Language Evolution. Front Hum Neurosci 2016; 10:120. [PMID: 27047363 PMCID: PMC4796018 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2016.00120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are pervasive neurodevelopmental disorders involving a number of deficits to linguistic cognition. The gap between genetics and the pathophysiology of ASD remains open, in particular regarding its distinctive linguistic profile. The goal of this article is to attempt to bridge this gap, focusing on how the autistic brain processes language, particularly through the perspective of brain rhythms. Due to the phenomenon of pleiotropy, which may take some decades to overcome, we believe that studies of brain rhythms, which are not faced with problems of this scale, may constitute a more tractable route to interpreting language deficits in ASD and eventually other neurocognitive disorders. Building on recent attempts to link neural oscillations to certain computational primitives of language, we show that interpreting language deficits in ASD as oscillopathic traits is a potentially fruitful way to construct successful endophenotypes of this condition. Additionally, we will show that candidate genes for ASD are overrepresented among the genes that played a role in the evolution of language. These genes include (and are related to) genes involved in brain rhythmicity. We hope that the type of steps taken here will additionally lead to a better understanding of the comorbidity, heterogeneity, and variability of ASD, and may help achieve a better treatment of the affected populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elliot Murphy
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College LondonLondon, UK
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34
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Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that manifests as a heterogeneous set of social, cognitive, motor, and perceptual symptoms. This system-wide pervasiveness suggests that, rather than narrowly impacting individual systems such as affection or vision, autism may broadly alter neural computation. Here, we propose that alterations in nonlinear, canonical computations occurring throughout the brain may underlie the behavioral characteristics of autism. One such computation, called divisive normalization, balances a neuron's net excitation with inhibition reflecting the overall activity of the neuronal population. Through neural network simulations, we investigate how alterations in divisive normalization may give rise to autism symptomatology. Our findings show that a reduction in the amount of inhibition that occurs through divisive normalization can account for perceptual consequences of autism, consistent with the hypothesis of an increased ratio of neural excitation to inhibition (E/I) in the disorder. These results thus establish a bridge between an E/I imbalance and behavioral data on autism that is currently absent. Interestingly, our findings implicate the context-dependent, neuronal milieu as a key factor in autism symptomatology, with autism reflecting a less "social" neuronal population. Through a broader discussion of perceptual data, we further examine how altered divisive normalization may contribute to a wide array of the disorder's behavioral consequences. These analyses show how a computational framework can provide insights into the neural basis of autism and facilitate the generation of falsifiable hypotheses. A computational perspective on autism may help resolve debates within the field and aid in identifying physiological pathways to target in the treatment of the disorder.
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35
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Zürcher NR, Bhanot A, McDougle CJ, Hooker JM. A systematic review of molecular imaging (PET and SPECT) in autism spectrum disorder: current state and future research opportunities. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2015; 52:56-73. [PMID: 25684726 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Revised: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 02/03/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Non-invasive positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) are techniques used to quantify molecular interactions, biological processes and protein concentration and distribution. In the central nervous system, these molecular imaging techniques can provide critical insights into neurotransmitter receptors and their occupancy by neurotransmitters or drugs. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of studies that have investigated neurotransmitters in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), while earlier studies mostly focused on cerebral blood flow and glucose metabolism. The underlying and contributing mechanisms of ASD are largely undetermined and ASD diagnosis relies on the behavioral phenotype. Discovery of biochemical endophenotypes would represent a milestone in autism research that could potentially lead to ASD subtype stratification and the development of novel therapeutic drugs. This review characterizes the prior use of molecular imaging by PET and SPECT in ASD, addresses methodological challenges and highlights areas of future opportunity for contributions from molecular imaging to understand ASD pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole R Zürcher
- A.A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Harvard, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anisha Bhanot
- A.A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Christopher J McDougle
- Lurie Center for Autism, Department of Pediatrics, MassGeneral Hospital for Children, Lexington, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jacob M Hooker
- A.A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Harvard, Boston, MA, USA.
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36
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Lukose R, Beebe K, Kulesza RJ. Organization of the human superior olivary complex in 15q duplication syndromes and autism spectrum disorders. Neuroscience 2014; 286:216-30. [PMID: 25484361 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2014.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2014] [Revised: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a number of behavioral and social features. Although the etiology of most cases of ASD is idiopathic, a significant number of cases can be attributed to genetic causes, such as chromosome 15q duplications [dup(15q)]. Recent neuropathological investigations have provided evidence for distinct patterns of heterotopias and dysplasias in ASD and subjects with both ASD and dup(15q). Individuals with ASD characteristically have hearing difficulties and we have previously demonstrated significant and consistent hypoplasia in a number of auditory brainstem nuclei in subjects with ASD. Herein, we compare results from a morphometric investigation of auditory brainstem nuclei in subjects with ASD, dup(15q) and controls. Our observations in subjects with ASD support our previous reports. However, in subjects with dup(15q), we find significantly fewer neurons and in many nuclei, neurons were significantly smaller than in ASD subjects. Finally, we find a notably higher incidence of ectopic neurons in dup(15q). These results suggest that in the brainstem, these neuropathological conditions may evolve from some of the same developmental errors but are distinguished on microscopic features.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Lukose
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center - Hamot, Department of Neurology, United States
| | - K Beebe
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Department of Anatomy, United States
| | - R J Kulesza
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Department of Anatomy, United States.
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Tordjman S, Somogyi E, Coulon N, Kermarrec S, Cohen D, Bronsard G, Bonnot O, Weismann-Arcache C, Botbol M, Lauth B, Ginchat V, Roubertoux P, Barburoth M, Kovess V, Geoffray MM, Xavier J. Gene × Environment interactions in autism spectrum disorders: role of epigenetic mechanisms. Front Psychiatry 2014; 5:53. [PMID: 25136320 PMCID: PMC4120683 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2014.00053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies support currently the hypothesis that autism etiology is based on a polygenic and epistatic model. However, despite advances in epidemiological, molecular and clinical genetics, the genetic risk factors remain difficult to identify, with the exception of a few chromosomal disorders and several single gene disorders associated with an increased risk for autism. Furthermore, several studies suggest a role of environmental factors in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). First, arguments for a genetic contribution to autism, based on updated family and twin studies, are examined. Second, a review of possible prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal environmental risk factors for ASD are presented. Then, the hypotheses are discussed concerning the underlying mechanisms related to a role of environmental factors in the development of ASD in association with genetic factors. In particular, epigenetics as a candidate biological mechanism for gene × environment interactions is considered and the possible role of epigenetic mechanisms reported in genetic disorders associated with ASD is discussed. Furthermore, the example of in utero exposure to valproate provides a good illustration of epigenetic mechanisms involved in ASD and innovative therapeutic strategies. Epigenetic remodeling by environmental factors opens new perspectives for a better understanding, prevention, and early therapeutic intervention of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Tordjman
- Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Université Paris Descartes, CNRS UMR 8158, Paris, France
- Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie de l’Enfant et de l’Adolescent, Université de Rennes 1, Centre Hospitalier Guillaume Régnier, Rennes, France
| | - Eszter Somogyi
- Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Université Paris Descartes, CNRS UMR 8158, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Coulon
- Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Université Paris Descartes, CNRS UMR 8158, Paris, France
| | - Solenn Kermarrec
- Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Université Paris Descartes, CNRS UMR 8158, Paris, France
- Pôle Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie de l’Enfant et de l’Adolescent, Université de Rennes 1, Centre Hospitalier Guillaume Régnier, Rennes, France
| | - David Cohen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, GH Pitié-Salpétrière, CNRS FRE 2987, University Pierre and Marie Curie, Paris, France
| | - Guillaume Bronsard
- Laboratoire de Santé Publique (EA3279), School of Medicine of La Timone, Marseille, France
| | - Olivier Bonnot
- Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Université Paris Descartes, CNRS UMR 8158, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Weismann-Arcache
- Laboratoire Psychologie et Neurosciences de la Cognition et de l’Affectivité, Université de Rouen, Mont Saint Aignan, France
| | - Michel Botbol
- Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Université Paris Descartes, CNRS UMR 8158, Paris, France
- Service Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie de l’Enfant et de l’Adolescent, Université de Bretagne Occidentale, CHU de Brest, Brest, France
| | - Bertrand Lauth
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Landspitali University Hospital, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Vincent Ginchat
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, GH Pitié-Salpétrière, CNRS FRE 2987, University Pierre and Marie Curie, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Roubertoux
- Laboratoire de Génétique Médicale, Génomique Fonctionnelle, INSERM U 910, Université d’Aix-Marseille 2, Marseille, France
| | - Marianne Barburoth
- Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Université Paris Descartes, CNRS UMR 8158, Paris, France
| | - Viviane Kovess
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, EHESP School for Public Health, EA 4057 University Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Marie-Maude Geoffray
- Service Universitaire de Psychiatrie de l’Enfant et de l’Adolescent Hospitalier Le Vinatier, Bron, France
| | - Jean Xavier
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, GH Pitié-Salpétrière, CNRS FRE 2987, University Pierre and Marie Curie, Paris, France
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38
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Chen CH, Huang CC, Cheng MC, Chiu YN, Tsai WC, Wu YY, Liu SK, Gau SSF. Genetic analysis of GABRB3 as a candidate gene of autism spectrum disorders. Mol Autism 2014; 5:36. [PMID: 24999380 PMCID: PMC4082499 DOI: 10.1186/2040-2392-5-36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background GABRB3 is a position candidate gene at chromosome 15q12 that has been implicated in the neurobiology of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The aim of this study was to examine the genetic association of GABRB3 with ASD. Methods The sample consisted of 356 patients with clinical diagnosis of ASD according to the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria and confirmed by the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised and 386 unrelated controls. We searched for mutations at all the exonic regions and 1.6 Kb of the 5′ region of GABRB3 in the genomic DNA of all the participants using the Sanger sequencing. We implemented a case-control association analysis of variants detected in this sample, and conducted a reporter gene assay to assess the functional impact of variants at the 5′ regulatory region. Results We detected six known common SNPs; however, they were not associated with ASD. Besides, a total of 22 rare variants (12 at 5′ regulatory, 4 at intronic, and 6 at exonic regions) were detected in 18 patients and 6 controls. The frequency of rare variants was significantly higher in the patient group than in the control group (18/356 versus 6/386, odds ratio = 3.37, P = 0.007). All the 12 rare variants at the 5′ regulatory region were only detected in 7 patients, but not in any of the controls (7/356 versus 0/386, Fisher’s exact test, P = 0.006). Two patients carried multiple rare variants. Family studies showed that most of these rare variants were transmitted from their parents. Reporter gene assays revealed that four rare variants at the 5′ regulatory region and 1 at exon 1a untranslated region had elevated reporter gene activities compared to two wild type alleles. Conclusions Our data suggest rare variants of GABRB3 might be associated with ASD, and increased GABRB3 expression may contribute to the pathogenesis of ASD in some patients. Trial registration Clinical trial registration Identifier: NCT00494754
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Hsiang Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan ; Department and Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan ; Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, 7, Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chun Huang
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Min-Chih Cheng
- Department of Psychiatry, Yuli Mental Health Research Center, Yuli Veterans Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Nan Chiu
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, 7, Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Che Tsai
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, 7, Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Yu Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Kai Liu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Taoyaun Psychiatric Center, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Susan Shur-Fen Gau
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, 7, Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei 10002, Taiwan ; Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, and Graduate Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Deidda G, Bozarth IF, Cancedda L. Modulation of GABAergic transmission in development and neurodevelopmental disorders: investigating physiology and pathology to gain therapeutic perspectives. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:119. [PMID: 24904277 PMCID: PMC4033255 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 04/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
During mammalian ontogenesis, the neurotransmitter GABA is a fundamental regulator of neuronal networks. In neuronal development, GABAergic signaling regulates neural proliferation, migration, differentiation, and neuronal-network wiring. In the adult, GABA orchestrates the activity of different neuronal cell-types largely interconnected, by powerfully modulating synaptic activity. GABA exerts these functions by binding to chloride-permeable ionotropic GABAA receptors and metabotropic GABAB receptors. According to its functional importance during development, GABA is implicated in a number of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, Fragile X, Rett syndrome, Down syndrome, schizophrenia, Tourette's syndrome and neurofibromatosis. The strength and polarity of GABAergic transmission is continuously modulated during physiological, but also pathological conditions. For GABAergic transmission through GABAA receptors, strength regulation is achieved by different mechanisms such as modulation of GABAA receptors themselves, variation of intracellular chloride concentration, and alteration in GABA metabolism. In the never-ending effort to find possible treatments for GABA-related neurological diseases, of great importance would be modulating GABAergic transmission in a safe and possibly physiological way, without the dangers of either silencing network activity or causing epileptic seizures. In this review, we will discuss the different ways to modulate GABAergic transmission normally at work both during physiological and pathological conditions. Our aim is to highlight new research perspectives for therapeutic treatments that reinstate natural and physiological brain functions in neuro-pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Deidda
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Genova, Italy
| | - Ignacio F Bozarth
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Genova, Italy
| | - Laura Cancedda
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Genova, Italy
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Vorstman JAS, Spooren W, Persico AM, Collier DA, Aigner S, Jagasia R, Glennon JC, Buitelaar JK. Using genetic findings in autism for the development of new pharmaceutical compounds. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2014; 231:1063-78. [PMID: 24292384 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-013-3334-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2013] [Accepted: 10/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The main reason for the current lack of effective treatments for the core symptoms of autism is our limited understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying this heterogeneous group of disorders. A primary value of genetic research is enhancing our insight into the biology of autism through the study of identified autism risk genes. OBJECTIVES In the current review we discuss (1) the genes and loci that are associated with autism, (2) how these provide us with essential cues as to what neurobiological mechanisms may be involved, and (3) how these mechanisms may be used as targets for novel treatments. Next, we provide an overview of currently ongoing clinical trials registered at clinicaltrials.gov with a variety of compounds. Finally, we review current approaches used to translate knowledge derived from gene discovery into novel pharmaceutical compounds and discuss their pitfalls and problems. CONCLUSIONS An increasing number of genetic variants associated with autism have been identified. This will generate new ideas about the biological mechanisms involved in autism, which in turn may provide new leads for the development of novel pharmaceutical compounds. To optimize this pipeline of drug discovery, large-scale international collaborations are needed for gene discovery, functional validation of risk genes, and improvement of clinical outcome measures and clinical trial methodology in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob A S Vorstman
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, A001.468, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3485 CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands,
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41
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Banerjee S, Riordan M, Bhat MA. Genetic aspects of autism spectrum disorders: insights from animal models. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:58. [PMID: 24605088 PMCID: PMC3932417 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2014] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that display a triad of core behavioral deficits including restricted interests, often accompanied by repetitive behavior, deficits in language and communication, and an inability to engage in reciprocal social interactions. ASD is among the most heritable disorders but is not a simple disorder with a singular pathology and has a rather complex etiology. It is interesting to note that perturbations in synaptic growth, development, and stability underlie a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders, including ASD, schizophrenia, epilepsy, and intellectual disability. Biological characterization of an increasing repertoire of synaptic mutants in various model organisms indicates synaptic dysfunction as causal in the pathophysiology of ASD. Our understanding of the genes and genetic pathways that contribute toward the formation, stabilization, and maintenance of functional synapses coupled with an in-depth phenotypic analysis of the cellular and behavioral characteristics is therefore essential to unraveling the pathogenesis of these disorders. In this review, we discuss the genetic aspects of ASD emphasizing on the well conserved set of genes and genetic pathways implicated in this disorder, many of which contribute to synapse assembly and maintenance across species. We also review how fundamental research using animal models is providing key insights into the various facets of human ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Banerjee
- Department of Physiology, Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Maeveen Riordan
- Department of Physiology, Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Manzoor A Bhat
- Department of Physiology, Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, TX, USA
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McGee A, Li G, Lu Z, Qiu S. Convergent synaptic and circuit substrates underlying autism genetic risks. FRONTIERS IN BIOLOGY 2014; 9:137-150. [PMID: 24999357 PMCID: PMC4079081 DOI: 10.1007/s11515-014-1298-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
There has been a surge of diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) over the past decade. While large, high powered genome screening studies of children with ASD have identified numerous genetic risk factors, research efforts to understanding how each of these risk factors contributes to the development autism has met with limited success. Revealing the mechanisms by which these genetic risk factors affect brain development and predispose a child to autism requires mechanistic understanding of the neurobiological changes underlying this devastating group of developmental disorders at multifaceted molecular, cellular and system levels. It has been increasingly clear that the normal trajectory of neurodevelopment is compromised in autism, in multiple domains as much as aberrant neuronal production, growth, functional maturation, patterned connectivity, and balanced excitation and inhibition of brain networks. Many autism risk factors identified in humans have been now reconstituted in experimental mouse models to allow mechanistic interrogation of the biological role of the risk gene. Studies utilizing these mouse models have revealed that underlying the enormous heterogeneity of perturbed cellular events, mechanisms directing synaptic and circuit assembly may provide a unifying explanation for the pathophysiological changes and behavioral endophenotypes seen in autism, although synaptic perturbations are far from being the only alterations relevant for ASD. In this review, we discuss synaptic and circuit abnormalities obtained from several prevalent mouse models, particularly those reflecting syndromic forms of ASD that are caused by single gene perturbations. These compiled results reveal that ASD risk genes contribute to proper signaling of the developing gene networks that maintain synaptic and circuit homeostasis, which is fundamental to normal brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron McGee
- Developmental Neuroscience Program, Saban Research Institute, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
| | - Guohui Li
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Neuroscience, School of Life Science, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Zhongming Lu
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
| | - Shenfeng Qiu
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Neuroscience, School of Life Science, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
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Zhubi A, Cook EH, Guidotti A, Grayson DR. Epigenetic Mechanisms in Autism Spectrum Disorder. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2014; 115:203-44. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-801311-3.00006-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Cellot G, Cherubini E. GABAergic signaling as therapeutic target for autism spectrum disorders. Front Pediatr 2014; 2:70. [PMID: 25072038 PMCID: PMC4085902 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2014.00070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 06/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA), the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the adult brain, early in postnatal life exerts a depolarizing and excitatory action. This depends on accumulation of chloride inside the cell via the cation-chloride importer NKCC1, being the expression of the chloride exporter KCC2 very low at birth. The developmentally regulated expression of KCC2 results in extrusion of chloride with age and a shift of GABA from the depolarizing to the hyperpolarizing direction. The depolarizing action of GABA leads to intracellular calcium rise through voltage-dependent calcium channels and/or N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors. GABA-mediated calcium signals regulate a variety of developmental processes from cell proliferation migration, differentiation, synapse maturation, and neuronal wiring. Therefore, it is not surprising that some forms of neuro-developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are associated with alterations of GABAergic signaling and impairment of the excitatory/inhibitory balance in selective neuronal circuits. In this review, we will discuss how changes of GABAA-mediated neurotransmission affect several forms of ASDs including the Fragile X, the Angelman, and Rett syndromes. Then, we will describe various animal models of ASDs with GABAergic dysfunctions, highlighting their behavioral deficits and the possibility to rescue them by targeting selective components of the GABAergic synapse. In particular, we will discuss how in some cases, reverting the polarity of GABA responses from the depolarizing to the hyperpolarizing direction with the diuretic bumetanide, a selective blocker of NKCC1, may have beneficial effects on ASDs, thus opening new therapeutic perspectives for the treatment of these devastating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Cellot
- Department of Neuroscience, Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati , Trieste , Italy
| | - Enrico Cherubini
- Department of Neuroscience, Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati , Trieste , Italy ; European Brain Research Institute , Rome , Italy
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45
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Smith-Hicks CL. GABAergic dysfunction in pediatric neuro-developmental disorders. Front Cell Neurosci 2013; 7:269. [PMID: 24391546 PMCID: PMC3867664 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2013.00269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2013] [Accepted: 12/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The GABAergic system is central to the development and functional maturation of the nervous system. Emerging evidence support the role of GABAergic dysfunction in neuro-developmental disorders. This review presents the molecules and mechanisms that underlie GABA system dysfunction in several neuro-developmental disorders presenting in childhood. The impact on synaptic plasticity, neuronal circuit function and behavior, followed by targeted treatment strategies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constance L Smith-Hicks
- Neurology, Kennedy Krieger Institute Baltimore, MD, USA ; Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Baltimore, MD, USA
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46
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Warrier V, Baron-Cohen S, Chakrabarti B. Genetic variation in GABRB3 is associated with Asperger syndrome and multiple endophenotypes relevant to autism. Mol Autism 2013; 4:48. [PMID: 24321478 PMCID: PMC3903107 DOI: 10.1186/2040-2392-4-48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 10/31/2013] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum conditions (ASC) are associated with deficits in social interaction and communication, alongside repetitive, restricted, and stereotyped behavior. ASC is highly heritable. The gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic system has been associated consistently with atypicalities in autism, in both genetic association and expression studies. A key component of the GABA-ergic system is encoded by the GABRB3 gene, which has been previously implicated both in ASC and in individual differences in empathy. METHODS In this study, 45 genotyped single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within GABRB3 were tested for association with Asperger syndrome (AS), and related quantitative traits measured through the following tests: the Empathy Quotient (EQ), the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ), the Systemizing Quotient-Revised (SQ-R), the Embedded Figures Test (EFT), the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test (RMET), and the Mental Rotation Test (MRT). Two-loci, three-loci, four-loci haplotype analyses, and one seven-loci haplotype analysis were also performed in the AS case-control sample. RESULTS Three SNPs (rs7180158, rs7165604, rs12593579) were significantly associated with AS, and two SNPs (rs9806546, rs11636966) were significantly associated with EQ. Two SNP-SNP pairs, rs12438141-rs1035751 and rs12438141-rs7179514, showed significant association with variation in the EFT scores. One SNP-SNP pair, rs7174437-rs1863455, was significantly associated with variation in the MRT scores. Additionally, a few haplotypes, including a 19 kb genomic region that formed a linkage disequilibrium (LD) block in our sample and contained several nominally significant SNPs, were found to be significantly associated with AS. CONCLUSION The current study confirms the role of GABRB3 as an important candidate gene in both ASC and normative variation in related endophenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Warrier
- Department of Psychiatry, Autism Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK.
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Sesarini CV, Costa L, Naymark M, Grañana N, Cajal AR, García Coto M, Pallia RC, Argibay PF. Evidence for interaction between markers in GABA(A) receptor subunit genes in an Argentinean autism spectrum disorder population. Autism Res 2013; 7:162-6. [PMID: 24249596 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2012] [Accepted: 10/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) can be conceptualized as a genetic dysfunction that disrupts development and function of brain circuits mediating social cognition and language. At least some forms of ASD may be associated with high level of excitation in neural circuits, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) has been implicated in its etiology. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) located within the GABA receptor (GABAR) subunit genes GABRA1, GABRG2, GABRB3, and GABRD were screened. A hundred and thirty-six Argentinean ASD patients and 150 controls were studied, and the contribution of the SNPs in the etiology of ASD was evaluated independently and/or through gene-gene interaction using multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) method. From the 18 SNP studied, 11 were not present in our Argentinean population (patients and controls) and 1 SNP had minor allele frequency < 0.1%. For the remaining six SNPs, none provided statistical significant association with ASD when considering allelic or genotypic frequencies. Non-significant association with ASD was found for the haplotype analysis. MDR identified evidence for synergy between markers in GABRB3 (chromosome 15) and GABRD (chromosome 1), suggesting potential gene-gene interaction across chromosomes associated with increased risk for autism (testing balanced accuracy: 0.6081 and cross-validation consistency: 10/10, P < 0.001). Considering our Argentinean ASD sample, it can be inferred that GABRB3 would be involved in the etiology of autism through interaction with GABRD. These results support the hypothesis that GABAR subunit genes are involved in autism, most likely via complex gene-gene interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla V Sesarini
- Instituto de Ciencias Básicas y Medicina Experimental (ICBME), CABA, Argentina
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Fisch GS. Autism and epistemology IV: Does autism need a theory of mind? Am J Med Genet A 2013; 161A:2464-80. [PMID: 23956150 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.36135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2013] [Accepted: 06/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
In their article, "Does the autistic child have a 'theory of mind'?," Baron-Cohen et al. [1985] proposed a novel paradigm to explain social impairment in children diagnosed as autistic (AD). Much research has been undertaken since their article went to print. The purpose of this commentary is to gauge whether Theory of Mind (ToM)-or lack thereof-is a valid model for explaining abnormal social behavior in children with AD. ToM is defined as "the ability to impute mental states to oneself and to others" and "the ability to make inferences about what other people believe to be the case." The source for their model was provided by an article published earlier by Premack and Woodruff, "Does the chimpanzee have a theory of mind?" Later research in chimpanzees did not support a ToM in primates. From the outset, ToM as a neurocognitive model of autism has had many shortcomings-methodological, logical, and empirical. Other ToM assumptions, for example, its universality in all children in all cultures and socioeconomic conditions, are not supported by data. The age at which a ToM emerges, or events that presage a ToM, are too often not corroborated. Recent studies of mirror neurons, their location and interconnections in brain, their relationship to social behavior and language, and the effect of lesions there on speech, language and social behavior, strongly suggests that a neurobiological as opposed to neurocognitive model of autism is a more parsimonious explanation for the social and behavioral phenotypes observed in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gene S Fisch
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Promotion, NYU Colleges of Dentistry and Nursing, New York, New York
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Won H, Mah W, Kim E. Autism spectrum disorder causes, mechanisms, and treatments: focus on neuronal synapses. Front Mol Neurosci 2013; 6:19. [PMID: 23935565 PMCID: PMC3733014 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2013.00019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2013] [Accepted: 07/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of developmental disabilities characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication and restricted and repetitive interests/behaviors. Advances in human genomics have identified a large number of genetic variations associated with ASD. These associations are being rapidly verified by a growing number of studies using a variety of approaches, including mouse genetics. These studies have also identified key mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of ASD, many of which involve synaptic dysfunctions, and have investigated novel, mechanism-based therapeutic strategies. This review will try to integrate these three key aspects of ASD research: human genetics, animal models, and potential treatments. Continued efforts in this direction should ultimately reveal core mechanisms that account for a larger fraction of ASD cases and identify neural mechanisms associated with specific ASD symptoms, providing important clues to efficient ASD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyejung Won
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and TechnologyDaejeon, South Korea
| | - Won Mah
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and TechnologyDaejeon, South Korea
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic ScienceDaejeon, South Korea
| | - Eunjoon Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and TechnologyDaejeon, South Korea
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic ScienceDaejeon, South Korea
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Urraca N, Cleary J, Brewer V, Pivnick EK, McVicar K, Thibert RL, Schanen NC, Esmer C, Lamport D, Reiter LT. The interstitial duplication 15q11.2-q13 syndrome includes autism, mild facial anomalies and a characteristic EEG signature. Autism Res 2013; 6:268-79. [PMID: 23495136 PMCID: PMC3884762 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2012] [Accepted: 02/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Chromosomal copy number variants (CNV) are the most common genetic lesion found in autism. Many autism-associated CNVs are duplications of chromosome 15q. Although most cases of interstitial (int) dup(15) that present clinically are de novo and maternally derived or inherited, both pathogenic and unaffected paternal duplications of 15q have been identified. We performed a phenotype/genotype analysis of individuals with interstitial 15q duplications to broaden our understanding of the 15q syndrome and investigate the contribution of 15q duplication to increased autism risk. All subjects were recruited solely on the basis of interstitial duplication 15q11.2-q13 status. Comparative array genome hybridization was used to determine the duplication size and boundaries while the methylation status of the maternally methylated small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptide N gene was used to determine the parent of origin of the duplication. We determined the duplication size and parental origin for 14 int dup(15) subjects: 10 maternal and 4 paternal cases. The majority of int dup(15) cases recruited were maternal in origin, most likely due to our finding that maternal duplication was coincident with autism spectrum disorder. The size of the duplication did not correlate with the severity of the phenotype as established by Autism Diagnostic Observation Scale calibrated severity score. We identified phenotypes not comprehensively described before in this cohort including mild facial dysmorphism, sleep problems and an unusual electroencephalogram variant. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that the maternally expressed ubiquitin protein ligase E3A gene is primarily responsible for the autism phenotype in int dup(15) since all maternal cases tested presented on the autism spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Urraca
- Department of Neurology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
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