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Buchholz S, Zempel H. The six brain-specific TAU isoforms and their role in Alzheimer's disease and related neurodegenerative dementia syndromes. Alzheimers Dement 2024; 20:3606-3628. [PMID: 38556838 PMCID: PMC11095451 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alternative splicing of the human MAPT gene generates six brain-specific TAU isoforms. Imbalances in the TAU isoform ratio can lead to neurodegenerative diseases, underscoring the need for precise control over TAU isoform balance. Tauopathies, characterized by intracellular aggregates of hyperphosphorylated TAU, exhibit extensive neurodegeneration and can be classified by the TAU isoforms present in pathological accumulations. METHODS A comprehensive review of TAU and related dementia syndromes literature was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and preprint server. RESULTS While TAU is recognized as key driver of neurodegeneration in specific tauopathies, the contribution of the isoforms to neuronal function and disease development remains largely elusive. DISCUSSION In this review we describe the role of TAU isoforms in health and disease, and stress the importance of comprehending and studying TAU isoforms in both, physiological and pathological context, in order to develop targeted therapeutic interventions for TAU-associated diseases. HIGHLIGHTS MAPT splicing is tightly regulated during neuronal maturation and throughout life. TAU isoform expression is development-, cell-type and brain region specific. The contribution of TAU to neurodegeneration might be isoform-specific. Ineffective TAU-based therapies highlight the need for specific targeting strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Buchholz
- Institute of Human GeneticsFaculty of Medicine and University Hospital CologneUniversity of CologneCologneGermany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC)University of CologneCologneGermany
- Present address:
Department Schaefer, Neurobiology of AgeingMax Planck Institute for Biology of AgeingCologneGermany
| | - Hans Zempel
- Institute of Human GeneticsFaculty of Medicine and University Hospital CologneUniversity of CologneCologneGermany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC)University of CologneCologneGermany
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2
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Tau; One Protein, So Many Diseases. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12020244. [PMID: 36829521 PMCID: PMC9953016 DOI: 10.3390/biology12020244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Tau, a member of the microtubule-associated proteins, is a known component of the neuronal cytoskeleton; however, in the brain tissue, it is involved in other vital functions beyond maintaining the cellular architecture. The pathologic tau forms aggregates inside the neurons and ultimately forms the neurofibrillary tangles. Intracellular and extracellular accumulation of different tau isoforms, including dimers, oligomers, paired helical filaments and tangles, lead to a highly heterogenous group of diseases named "Tauopathies". About twenty-six different types of tauopathy diseases have been identified that have different clinical phenotypes or pathophysiological characteristics. Although all these diseases are identified by tau aggregation, they are distinguishable based on the specific tau isoforms, the affected cell types and the brain regions. The neuropathological and phenotypical heterogeneity of these diseases impose significant challenges for discovering new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Here, we review the recent literature on tau protein and the pathophysiological mechanisms of tauopathies. This article mainly focuses on physiologic and pathologic tau and aims to summarize the upstream and downstream events and discuss the current diagnostic approaches and therapeutic strategies.
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3
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Wang R, Gao H, Xie H, Jia Z, Chen Q. Molecular imaging biomarkers in familial frontotemporal lobar degeneration: Progress and prospects. Front Neurol 2022; 13:933217. [PMID: 36051222 PMCID: PMC9424494 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.933217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) is a pathologically heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative diseases with diverse genotypes and clinical phenotypes. Three major mutations were reported in patients with familial FTLD, namely, progranulin (GRN), microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT), and the chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9orf72) repeat expansion, which could cause neurodegenerative pathological changes years before symptom onset. Noninvasive quantitative molecular imaging with PET or single-photon emission CT (SPECT) allows for selective visualization of the molecular targets in vivo to investigate brain metabolism, perfusion, neuroinflammation, and pathophysiological changes. There was increasing evidence that several molecular imaging biomarkers tend to serve as biomarkers to reveal the early brain abnormalities in familial FTLD. Tau-PET with 18F-flortaucipir and 11C-PBB3 demonstrated the elevated tau position in patients with FTLD and also showed the ability to differentiate patterns among the different subtypes of the mutations in familial FTLD. Furthermore, dopamine transporter imaging with the 11C-DOPA and 11C-CFT in PET and the 123I-FP-CIT in SPECT revealed the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the asymptomatic and symptomatic patients of familial FTLD. In addition, PET imaging with the 11C-MP4A has demonstrated reduced acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity in patients with FTLD, while PET with the 11C-DAA1106 and 11C-PK11195 revealed an increased level of microglial activation associated with neuroinflammation even before the onset of symptoms in familial FTLD. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-PET indicated hypometabolism in FTLD with different mutations preceded the atrophy on MRI. Identifying molecular imaging biomarkers for familial FTLD is important for the in-vivo assessment of underlying pathophysiological changes with disease progression and future disease-modifying therapy. We review the recent progress of molecular imaging in familial FTLD with focused on the possible implication of these techniques and their prospects in specific mutation types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruihan Wang
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hui Gao
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongsheng Xie
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhiyun Jia
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qin Chen
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Qin Chen
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4
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Gallo D, Ruiz A, Sánchez-Juan P. Genetic architecture of primary tauopathies. Neuroscience 2022; 518:27-37. [PMID: 35609758 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Primary Tauopathies are a group of diseases defined by the accumulation of Tau, in which the alteration of this protein is the primary driver of the neurodegenerative process. In addition to the classical syndromes (Pick's disease (PiD), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), corticobasal degeneration (CBD), and argyrophilic grain disease (AGD)), new entities, like primary age-related Tauopathy (PART), have been recently described. Except for the classical Richardson's syndrome phenotype in PSP, the correlation between the clinical picture of the primary Tauopathies and underlying pathology is poor. This fact has challenged genetic studies. However, thanks to multicenter collaborations, several genome-wide association studies are helping us unravel the genetic structure of these diseases. The most relevant risk factor revealed by these studies is the Tau gene (MAPT), which, in addition to mutations causing rare familial forms, plays a fundamental role in sporadic cases of PSP and CBD in which there is a strong predominance of the H1 and H1c haplotypes. But outside of MAPT, several other genes have been robustly associated with PSP. These findings, pointing towards multifactorial causation, imply the participation of several pathways involving the myelin sheath integrity, the endoplasmic reticulum unfolded protein response, microglia, intracellular vesicle trafficking, or the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Additionally, GWAS show a high degree of genetic overlap across different Tauopathies. This is especially salient between PSP and CBD, but also GWAS studying the recently described PART phenotype shows genetic overlap with genes that promote Tau pathology and with others associated with Alzheimer's disease.
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Han ZZ, Kang SG, Arce L, Westaway D. Prion-like strain effects in tauopathies. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 392:179-199. [PMID: 35460367 PMCID: PMC9034081 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03620-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Tau is a microtubule-associated protein that plays crucial roles in physiology and pathophysiology. In the realm of dementia, tau protein misfolding is associated with a wide spectrum of clinicopathologically diverse neurodegenerative diseases, collectively known as tauopathies. As proposed by the tau strain hypothesis, the intrinsic heterogeneity of tauopathies may be explained by the existence of structurally distinct tau conformers, “strains”. Tau strains can differ in their associated clinical features, neuropathological profiles, and biochemical signatures. Although prior research into infectious prion proteins offers valuable lessons for studying how a protein-only pathogen can encompass strain diversity, the underlying mechanism by which tau subtypes are generated remains poorly understood. Here we summarize recent advances in understanding different tau conformers through in vivo and in vitro experimental paradigms, and the implications of heterogeneity of pathological tau species for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuang Zhuang Han
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases, University of Alberta, 204 Brain and Aging Research Building, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2M8, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Sang-Gyun Kang
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases, University of Alberta, 204 Brain and Aging Research Building, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2M8, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Luis Arce
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases, University of Alberta, 204 Brain and Aging Research Building, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2M8, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - David Westaway
- Centre for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases, University of Alberta, 204 Brain and Aging Research Building, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2M8, Canada. .,Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada. .,Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
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6
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Zhou XY, Lu JY, Liu FT, Wu P, Zhao J, Ju ZZ, Tang YL, Shi QY, Lin HM, Wu JJ, Yen TC, Zuo CT, Sun YM, Wang J. In Vivo 18 F-APN-1607 Tau Positron Emission Tomography Imaging in MAPT Mutations: Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Findings. Mov Disord 2021; 37:525-534. [PMID: 34842301 DOI: 10.1002/mds.28867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Frontotemporal lobar degeneration with tauopathy caused by MAPT (microtubule-associated protein tau) mutations is a highly heterogenous disorder. The ability to visualize and longitudinally monitor tau deposits may be beneficial to understand disease pathophysiology and predict clinical trajectories. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the cross-sectional and longitudinal 18 F-APN-1607 positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging findings in MAPT mutation carriers. METHODS Seven carriers of MAPT mutations (six within exon 10 and one outside of exon 10) and 15 healthy control subjects were included. All participants underwent 18 F-APN-1607 PET/CT at baseline. Three carriers of exon 10 mutations received follow-up 18 F-APN-1607 PET/CT scans. Standardized uptake value ratio (SUVR) maps were obtained using the cerebellar gray matter as the reference region. SUVR values observed in MAPT mutation carriers were normalized to data from healthy control subjects. A regional SUVR z score ≥ 2 was used as the criterion to define positive 18 F-APN-1607 PET/CT findings. RESULTS Although the seven study patients had heterogenous clinical phenotypes, all showed a significant 18 F-APN-1607 uptake characterized by high-contrast signals. However, the anatomical localization of tau deposits differed in patients with distinct clinical symptoms. Follow-up imaging data, which were available for three patients, demonstrated worsening trends in patterns of tau accumulation over time, which were paralleled by a significant clinical deterioration. CONCLUSIONS Our data represent a promising step in understanding the usefulness of 18 F-APN-1607 PET/CT imaging for detecting tau accumulation in MAPT mutation carriers. Our preliminary follow-up data also suggest the potential value of 18 F-APN-1607 PET/CT for monitoring the longitudinal trajectories of frontotemporal lobar degeneration caused by MAPT mutations. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yue Zhou
- Department of Neurology and National Research Center for Aging and Medicine & National Center for Neurological Disorders, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Ying Lu
- PET Center, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng-Tao Liu
- Department of Neurology and National Research Center for Aging and Medicine & National Center for Neurological Disorders, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Wu
- PET Center, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jue Zhao
- Department of Neurology and National Research Center for Aging and Medicine & National Center for Neurological Disorders, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zi-Zhao Ju
- PET Center, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-Lin Tang
- Department of Neurology and National Research Center for Aging and Medicine & National Center for Neurological Disorders, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing-Yi Shi
- PET Center, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hua-Mei Lin
- PET Center, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian-Jun Wu
- Department of Neurology and National Research Center for Aging and Medicine & National Center for Neurological Disorders, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Chuan-Tao Zuo
- PET Center, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-Min Sun
- Department of Neurology and National Research Center for Aging and Medicine & National Center for Neurological Disorders, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Neurology and National Research Center for Aging and Medicine & National Center for Neurological Disorders, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Leveille E, Ross OA, Gan-Or Z. Tau and MAPT genetics in tauopathies and synucleinopathies. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2021; 90:142-154. [PMID: 34593302 DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2021.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
MAPT encodes the microtubule-associated protein tau, which is the main component of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and found in other protein aggregates. These aggregates are among the pathological hallmarks of primary tauopathies such as frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Abnormal tau can also be observed in secondary tauopathies such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and synucleinopathies such as Parkinson's disease (PD). On top of pathological findings, genetic data also links MAPT to these disorders. MAPT variations are a cause or risk factors for many tauopathies and synucleinopathies and are associated with certain clinical and pathological features in affected individuals. In addition to clinical, pathological, and genetic overlap, evidence also suggests that tau and alpha-synuclein may interact on the molecular level, and thus might collaborate in the neurodegenerative process. Understanding the role of MAPT variations in tauopathies and synucleinopathies is therefore essential to elucidate the role of tau in the pathogenesis and phenotype of those disorders, and ultimately to develop targeted therapies. In this review, we describe the role of MAPT genetic variations in tauopathies and synucleinopathies, several genotype-phenotype and pathological features, and discuss their implications for the classification and treatment of those disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Owen A Ross
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA; Department of Clinical Genomics, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Ziv Gan-Or
- The Neuro (Montreal Neurological Institute-hospital), McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada; Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada.
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8
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Williams L, Olszewska DA, Fearon C, Magennis B, McCarthy A, Rowland LP, Mayeux R, Page R, Fahn S, Beausang A, Lynch T. Ondine's Curse in Frontotemporal Dementia with Parkinsonism Linked to Chromosome 17 Caused by MAPT Variants. Mov Disord Clin Pract 2021; 8:954-958. [PMID: 34405105 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.13265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background "Ondine's curse" or central hypoventilation, induces an apparently spontaneous failure of automatic respiratory drive, henceforth necessitating a conscious effort to breathe and sleep induced hypoventilation. It is typically seen in congenital central hypoventilation syndrome, but may be acquired. Objectives To highlight Ondine's curse as part of frontotemporal dementia with parkinsonism linked to chromosome 17 (FTDP-17) secondary to microtubule associated protein tau (MAPT) variants. Methods We describe the clinical and neuropathological findings in two patients with fatal Ondine's curse associated with FTDP-17 and secondary to MAPT variants (FTDP-17t). We discuss neuroanatomical correlates. We review two prior reports of central hypoventilation associated with MAPT variants suggesting that Ondine's curse occurs uncommonly in FTDP-17t. Results Despite variants affecting different regions of MAPT and a degree of heterogeneity in pathological findings, the patients reviewed all experienced central hypoventilation during their disease course. Conclusion Tauopathy should be considered in patients with adult-onset Ondine's curse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Williams
- Dublin Neurological Institute, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital Dublin Ireland
| | - Diana A Olszewska
- Dublin Neurological Institute, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital Dublin Ireland
| | - Conor Fearon
- Dublin Neurological Institute, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital Dublin Ireland
| | - Brian Magennis
- Dublin Neurological Institute, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital Dublin Ireland
| | | | - Lewis P Rowland
- Department of Neurology Columbia University Irving Medical Center New York New York USA
| | - Richard Mayeux
- Department of Neurology Columbia University Irving Medical Center New York New York USA
| | - Rory Page
- Department of Anaesthesia Cavan General Hospital Cavan Ireland
| | - Stanley Fahn
- Department of Neurology Columbia University Irving Medical Center New York New York USA
| | - Alan Beausang
- Department of Neuropathology Beaumont Hospital Dublin Ireland
| | - Tim Lynch
- Dublin Neurological Institute, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital Dublin Ireland.,UCD School of Medicine University College Dublin Ireland
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Ghosh A, Singh S. Regulation Of Microtubule: Current Concepts And Relevance To Neurodegenerative Diseases. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS 2021; 21:656-679. [PMID: 34323203 DOI: 10.2174/1871527320666210728144043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are abnormalities linked to neuronal structure and irregularities associated with the proliferation of cells, transportation, and differentiation. NDD also involves synaptic circuitry and neural network alterations known as synaptopathies. Microtubules (MTs) and MTs-associated proteins help to maintain neuronal health as well as their development. The microtubular dynamic structure plays a crucial role in the division of cells and forms mitotic spindles, thus take part in initiating stages of differentiation and polarization for various types of cells. The MTs also take part in the cellular death but MT-based cellular degenerations are not yet well excavated. In the last few years, studies have provided the protagonist activity of MTs in neuronal degeneration. In this review, we largely engrossed our discussion on the change of MT cytoskeleton structure, describing their organization, dynamics, transportation, and their failure causing NDDs. At end of this review, we are targeting the therapeutic neuroprotective strategies on clinical priority and also try to discuss the clues for the development of new MT-based therapy as a new pharmacological intervention. This will be a new potential site to block not only neurodegeneration but also promotes the regeneration of neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirban Ghosh
- Neuroscience Division, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga-142001 Punjab, India
| | - Shamsher Singh
- Neuroscience Division, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga-142001 Punjab, India
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10
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Olszewska DA, Fearon C, McGuigan C, McVeigh TP, Houlden H, Polke JM, Lawlor B, Coen R, Hutchinson M, Hutton M, Beausang A, Delon I, Brett F, Sevastou I, Seto-Salvia N, de Silva R, Lynch T. A clinical, molecular genetics and pathological study of a FTDP-17 family with a heterozygous splicing variant c.823-10G>T at the intron 9/exon 10 of the MAPT gene. Neurobiol Aging 2021; 106:343.e1-343.e8. [PMID: 34274155 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2021.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
We report the first clinical-radiological-genetic-molecular-pathological study of a kindred with c.823-10G>T MAPT intronic variant (rs63749974) associated with frontotemporal dementia and parkinsonism linked to chromosome 17 (FTDP-17). We describe the clinical spectrum within this family and emphasize the association between MAPT gene variants and motor neuron disease. This report of a second family with FTDP-17 associated with c.823-10G>T MAPT variant strongly supports pathogenicity of the variant and confirms it is a 4-repeat (4R) tauopathy. This intronic point mutation, probably strengthens the polypyrimidine tract and alters the splicing of exon 10 (10 nucleotides into intron 9) close to the 3' splice site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana A Olszewska
- Department of Neurology, Dublin Neurological Institute, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Conor Fearon
- Department of Neurology, Dublin Neurological Institute, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | | | - Henry Houlden
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - James M Polke
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Brian Lawlor
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Robert Coen
- Mercer's Institute of Aging, St James's Hospital Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Michael Hutton
- Department of Neurology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Alan Beausang
- Eli Lilly Research Laboratories, Lilly Corporate Center, Indianapolis, USA
| | - Isabelle Delon
- Department of Neuropathology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Francesca Brett
- East Genomic Laboratory Hub, Cambridge University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Addenbrooke's Treatment Centre, Hills Road, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ioanna Sevastou
- Department of Neuropathology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nuria Seto-Salvia
- East Genomic Laboratory Hub, Cambridge University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Addenbrooke's Treatment Centre, Hills Road, Cambridge, UK
| | - Rohan de Silva
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neuroscience, Reta Lila Weston Institute, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Tim Lynch
- Department of Neurology, Dublin Neurological Institute, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland; Health affairs, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Ireland East Hospital Group, Dublin, Ireland.
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11
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Ganguly J, Jog M. Tauopathy and Movement Disorders-Unveiling the Chameleons and Mimics. Front Neurol 2020; 11:599384. [PMID: 33250855 PMCID: PMC7674803 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.599384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The spectrum of tauopathy encompasses heterogenous group of neurodegenerative disorders characterized by neural or glial deposition of pathological protein tau. Clinically they can present as cognitive syndromes, movement disorders, motor neuron disease, or mixed. The heterogeneity in clinical presentation, genetic background, and underlying pathology make it difficult to classify and clinically approach tauopathy. In the literature, tauopathies are thus mostly highlighted from pathological perspective. From clinical standpoint, cognitive syndromes are often been focussed while reviewing tauopathies. However, the spectrum of tauopathy has also evolved significantly in the domain of movement disorders and has transgressed beyond the domain of primary tauopathies. Secondary tauopathies from neuroinflammation or autoimmune insults and some other "novel" tauopathies are increasingly being reported in the current literature, while some of them are geographically isolated. Because of the overlapping clinical phenotypes, it often becomes difficult for the clinician to diagnose them clinically and have to wait for the pathological confirmation by autopsy. However, each of these tauopathies has some clinical and radiological signatures those can help in clinical diagnosis and targeted genetic testing. In this review, we have exposed the heterogeneity of tauopathy from a movement disorder perspective and have provided a clinical approach to diagnose them ante mortem before confirmatory autopsy. Additionally, phenotypic variability of these disorders (chameleons) and the look-alikes (mimics) have been discussed with potential clinical pointers for each of them. The review provides a framework within which new and as yet undiscovered entities can be classified in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mandar Jog
- Movement Disorder Centre, London Health Sciences Centre, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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12
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Modelling frontotemporal dementia using patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells. Mol Cell Neurosci 2020; 109:103553. [PMID: 32956830 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2020.103553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) describes a group of clinically heterogeneous conditions that frequently affect people under the age of 65 (Le Ber et al., 2013). There are multiple genetic causes of FTD, including coding or splice-site mutations in MAPT, GRN mutations that lead to haploinsufficiency of progranulin protein, and a hexanucleotide GGGGCC repeat expansion in C9ORF72. Pathologically, FTD is characterised by abnormal protein accumulations in neurons and glia. These aggregates can be composed of the microtubule-associated protein tau (observed in FTD with MAPT mutations), the DNA/RNA-binding protein TDP-43 (seen in FTD with mutations in GRN or C9ORF72 repeat expansions) or dipeptide proteins generated by repeat associated non-ATG translation of the C9ORF72 repeat expansion. There are currently no disease-modifying therapies for FTD and the availability of in vitro models that recapitulate pathologies in a disease-relevant cell type would accelerate the development of novel therapeutics. It is now possible to generate patient-specific stem cells through the reprogramming of somatic cells from a patient with a genotype/phenotype of interest into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). iPSCs can subsequently be differentiated into a plethora of cell types including neurons, astrocytes and microglia. Using this approach has allowed researchers to generate in vitro models of genetic FTD in human cell types that are largely inaccessible during life. In this review we explore the recent progress in the use of iPSCs to model FTD, and consider the merits, limitations and future prospects of this approach.
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13
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Taylor K, Sobczak K. Intrinsic Regulatory Role of RNA Structural Arrangement in Alternative Splicing Control. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21145161. [PMID: 32708277 PMCID: PMC7404189 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternative splicing is a highly sophisticated process, playing a significant role in posttranscriptional gene expression and underlying the diversity and complexity of organisms. Its regulation is multilayered, including an intrinsic role of RNA structural arrangement which undergoes time- and tissue-specific alterations. In this review, we describe the principles of RNA structural arrangement and briefly decipher its cis- and trans-acting cellular modulators which serve as crucial determinants of biological functionality of the RNA structure. Subsequently, we engage in a discussion about the RNA structure-mediated mechanisms of alternative splicing regulation. On one hand, the impairment of formation of optimal RNA structures may have critical consequences for the splicing outcome and further contribute to understanding the pathomechanism of severe disorders. On the other hand, the structural aspects of RNA became significant features taken into consideration in the endeavor of finding potential therapeutic treatments. Both aspects have been addressed by us emphasizing the importance of ongoing studies in both fields.
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Angelbello AJ, Chen JL, Disney MD. Small molecule targeting of RNA structures in neurological disorders. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2020; 1471:57-71. [PMID: 30964958 PMCID: PMC6785366 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.14051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2018] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant RNA structure and function operate in neurological disease progression and severity. As RNA contributes to disease pathology in a complex fashion, that is, via various mechanisms, it has become an attractive therapeutic target for small molecules and oligonucleotides. In this review, we discuss the identification of RNA structures that cause or contribute to neurological diseases as well as recent progress toward the development of small molecules that target them, including small molecule modulators of pre-mRNA splicing and RNA repeat expansions that cause microsatellite disorders such as Huntington's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The use of oligonucleotide-based modalities is also discussed. There are key differences between small molecule and oligonucleotide targeting of RNA. The former targets RNA structure, while the latter prefers unstructured regions. Thus, some targets will be preferentially targeted by oligonucleotides and others by small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jonathan L Chen
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida
| | - Matthew D Disney
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida
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15
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Chen Q, Kantarci K. Imaging Biomarkers for Neurodegeneration in Presymptomatic Familial Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration. Front Neurol 2020; 11:80. [PMID: 32184751 PMCID: PMC7058699 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by behavioral changes, language abnormality, as well as executive function deficits and motor impairment. In about 30-50% of FTLD patients, an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance was found with major mutations in the MAPT, GRN, and the C9orf72 repeat expansion. These mutations could lead to neurodegenerative pathology years before clinical symptoms onset. With potential disease-modifying treatments that are under development, non-invasive biomarkers that help determine the early brain changes in presymptomatic FTLD patients will be critical for tracking disease progression and enrolling the right participants into the clinical trials at the right time during the disease course. In recent years, there is increasing evidence that a number of imaging biomarkers show the abnormalities during the presymptomatic stage. Imaging biomarkers of presymptomatic familial FTLD may provide insight into the underlying neurodegenerative process years before symptom onset. Structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has demonstrated cortical degeneration with a mutation-specific neurodegeneration pattern years before onset of clinical symptoms in presymptomatic familial FTLD mutation carriers. In addition, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) has shown the loss of white matter microstructural integrity in the presymptomatic stage of familial FTLD. Furthermore, proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS), which provides a non-invasive measurement of brain biochemistry, has identified early neurochemical abnormalities in presymptomatic MAPT mutation carriers. Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging with [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) has demonstrated the glucose hypometabolism in the presymptomatic stage of familial FTLD. Also, a novel PET ligand, 18F-AV-1451, has been used in this group to evaluate tau deposition in the brain. Promising imaging biomarkers for presymptomatic familial FTLD have been identified and assessed for specificity and sensitivity for accurate prediction of symptom onset and tracking disease progression during the presymptomatic stage when clinical measures are not useful. Furthermore, identifying imaging biomarkers for the presymptomatic stage is important for the design of disease-modifying trials. We review the recent progress in imaging biomarkers of the presymptomatic phase of familial FTLD and discuss the imaging techniques and analysis methods, with a focus on the potential implication of these imaging techniques and their utility in specific mutation types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Chen
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Kejal Kantarci
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
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Ong AAL, Tan J, Bhadra M, Dezanet C, Patil KM, Chong MS, Kierzek R, Decout JL, Roca X, Chen G. RNA Secondary Structure-Based Design of Antisense Peptide Nucleic Acids for Modulating Disease-Associated Aberrant Tau Pre-mRNA Alternative Splicing. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24163020. [PMID: 31434312 PMCID: PMC6720520 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24163020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternative splicing of tau pre-mRNA is regulated by a 5' splice site (5'ss) hairpin present at the exon 10-intron 10 junction. Single mutations within the hairpin sequence alter hairpin structural stability and/or the binding of splicing factors, resulting in disease-causing aberrant splicing of exon 10. The hairpin structure contains about seven stably formed base pairs and thus may be suitable for targeting through antisense strands. Here, we used antisense peptide nucleic acids (asPNAs) to probe and target the tau pre-mRNA exon 10 5'ss hairpin structure through strand invasion. We characterized by electrophoretic mobility shift assay the binding of the designed asPNAs to model tau splice site hairpins. The relatively short (10-15 mer) asPNAs showed nanomolar binding to wild-type hairpins as well as a disease-causing mutant hairpin C+19G, albeit with reduced binding strength. Thus, the structural stabilizing effect of C+19G mutation could be revealed by asPNA binding. In addition, our cell culture minigene splicing assay data revealed that application of an asPNA targeting the 3' arm of the hairpin resulted in an increased exon 10 inclusion level for the disease-associated mutant C+19G, probably by exposing the 5'ss as well as inhibiting the binding of protein factors to the intronic spicing silencer. On the contrary, the application of asPNAs targeting the 5' arm of the hairpin caused an increased exon 10 exclusion for a disease-associated mutant C+14U, mainly by blocking the 5'ss. PNAs could enter cells through conjugation with amino sugar neamine or by cotransfection with minigene plasmids using a commercially available transfection reagent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Ann Lerk Ong
- NTU Institute for Health Technologies (HeathTech NTU), Interdisciplinary Graduate School, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637553, Singapore
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| | - Jiazi Tan
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| | - Malini Bhadra
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551, Singapore
| | - Clément Dezanet
- University Grenoble Alpes/CNRS, Département de Pharmacochimie Moléculaire, ICMG FR 2607, UMR 5063, 470 Rue de la Chimie, F-38041 Grenoble, France
| | - Kiran M Patil
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| | - Mei Sian Chong
- Geriatic Education & Research Institute, 2 Yishun Central 2, Singapore 768024, Singapore
| | - Ryszard Kierzek
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704 Poznan, Poland
| | - Jean-Luc Decout
- University Grenoble Alpes/CNRS, Département de Pharmacochimie Moléculaire, ICMG FR 2607, UMR 5063, 470 Rue de la Chimie, F-38041 Grenoble, France
| | - Xavier Roca
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551, Singapore
| | - Gang Chen
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371, Singapore.
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Chen Q, Boeve BF, Senjem M, Tosakulwong N, Lesnick TG, Brushaber D, Dheel C, Fields J, Forsberg L, Gavrilova R, Gearhart D, Graff-Radford J, Graff-Radford NR, Jack CR, Jones DT, Knopman DS, Kremers WK, Lapid M, Rademakers R, Syrjanen J, Boxer AL, Rosen H, Wszolek ZK, Kantarci K. Rates of lobar atrophy in asymptomatic MAPT mutation carriers. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (NEW YORK, N. Y.) 2019; 5:338-346. [PMID: 31388560 PMCID: PMC6675939 DOI: 10.1016/j.trci.2019.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to investigate the rates of lobar atrophy in the asymptomatic microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT) mutation carriers. METHODS MAPT mutation carriers (n = 14; 10 asymptomatic, 4 converters from asymptomatic to symptomatic) and noncarriers (n = 13) underwent structural magnetic resonance imaging and were followed annually with a median of 9.2 years. Longitudinal changes in lobar atrophy were analyzed using the tensor-based morphometry with symmetric normalization algorithm. RESULTS The rate of temporal lobe atrophy in asymptomatic MAPT mutation carriers was faster than that in noncarriers. Although the greatest rate of atrophy was observed in the temporal lobe in converters, they also had increased atrophy rates in the frontal and parietal lobes compared to noncarriers. DISCUSSION Accelerated decline in temporal lobe volume occurs in asymptomatic MAPT mutation carriers followed by the frontal and parietal lobe in those who have become symptomatic. The findings have implications for monitoring the progression of neurodegeneration during clinical trials in asymptomatic MAPT mutation carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Chen
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Bradley F. Boeve
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Matthew Senjem
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | | | - Danielle Brushaber
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Christina Dheel
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Julie Fields
- Department of Psychology and Psychiatry, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Leah Forsberg
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Ralitza Gavrilova
- Department of Clinical Genomic and Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Debra Gearhart
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jonathan Graff-Radford
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Clifford R. Jack
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - David T. Jones
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - David S. Knopman
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Walter K. Kremers
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Maria Lapid
- Department of Psychology and Psychiatry, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Rosa Rademakers
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Jeremy Syrjanen
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Adam L. Boxer
- Memory and Aging Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Howie Rosen
- Memory and Aging Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Kejal Kantarci
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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Chen JL, Moss WN, Spencer A, Zhang P, Childs-Disney JL, Disney MD. The RNA encoding the microtubule-associated protein tau has extensive structure that affects its biology. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0219210. [PMID: 31291322 PMCID: PMC6619747 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0219210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Tauopathies are neurodegenerative diseases that affect millions of people worldwide including those with Alzheimer’s disease. While many efforts have focused on understanding the role of tau protein in neurodegeneration, there has been little done to systematically analyze and study the structures within tau’s encoding RNA and their connection to disease pathology. Knowledge of RNA structure can provide insights into disease mechanisms and how to affect protein production for therapeutic benefit. Using computational methods based on thermodynamic stability and evolutionary conservation, we identified structures throughout the tau pre-mRNA, especially at exon-intron junctions and within the 5′ and 3′ untranslated regions (UTRs). In particular, structures were identified at twenty exon-intron junctions. The 5′ UTR contains one structured region, which lies within a known internal ribosome entry site. The 3′ UTR contains eight structured regions, including one that contains a polyadenylation signal. A series of functional experiments were carried out to assess the effects of mutations associated with mis-regulation of alternative splicing of exon 10 and to identify regions of the 3′ UTR that contain cis-regulatory elements. These studies defined novel structural regions within the mRNA that affect stability and pre-mRNA splicing and may lead to new therapeutic targets for treating tau-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan L. Chen
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida, United States of America
| | - Walter N. Moss
- Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics & Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Adam Spencer
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida, United States of America
| | - Peiyuan Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida, United States of America
| | - Jessica L. Childs-Disney
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida, United States of America
| | - Matthew D. Disney
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Tan J, Yang L, Ong AAL, Shi J, Zhong Z, Lye ML, Liu S, Lisowiec-Wachnicka J, Kierzek R, Roca X, Chen G. A Disease-Causing Intronic Point Mutation C19G Alters Tau Exon 10 Splicing via RNA Secondary Structure Rearrangement. Biochemistry 2019; 58:1565-1578. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.9b00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jiazi Tan
- Division of Chemistry & Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637371 Singapore
| | - Lixia Yang
- Division of Chemistry & Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637371 Singapore
| | - Alan Ann Lerk Ong
- Division of Chemistry & Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637371 Singapore
| | - Jiahao Shi
- Division of Chemistry & Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637371 Singapore
| | - Zhensheng Zhong
- Division of Chemistry & Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637371 Singapore
| | - Mun Leng Lye
- Division of Chemistry & Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637371 Singapore
| | - Shiyi Liu
- Division of Chemistry & Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637371 Singapore
| | - Jolanta Lisowiec-Wachnicka
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704 Poznan, Poland
| | - Ryszard Kierzek
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704 Poznan, Poland
| | - Xavier Roca
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637551 Singapore
| | - Gang Chen
- Division of Chemistry & Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637371 Singapore
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The cognitive indicators of preclinical behavioral variant Frontotemporal Dementia (bvFTD) have not been identified. To investigate these indicators, we compared cross-sectional performance on a range of cognitive measures in 12 carriers of pathogenic MAPT mutations not meeting diagnostic criteria for bvFTD (i.e., preclinical) versus 32 demographically-matched familial non-carriers (n = 44). Studying preclinical carriers offers a rare glimpse into emergent disease, environmentally and genetically contextualized through comparison to familial controls. METHODS Evaluating personnel blinded to carrier status administered a standardized neuropsychological battery assessing attention, speed, executive function, language, memory, spatial ability, and social cognition. Results from mixed effect modeling were corrected for multiplicity of comparison by the false discovery rate method, and results were considered significant at p < .05. To control for potential interfamilial variation arising from enrollment of six families, family was treated as a random effect, while carrier status, age, gender, and education were treated as fixed effects. RESULTS Group differences were detected in 17 of 31 cognitive scores and spanned all domains except spatial ability. As hypothesized, carriers performed worse on specific measures of executive function, and social cognition, but also on measures of attention, speed, semantic processing, and memory storage and retrieval. CONCLUSIONS Most notably, group differences arose on measures of memory storage, challenging long-standing ideas about the absence of amnestic features on neuropsychological testing in early bvFTD. Current findings provide important and clinically relevant information about specific measures that may be sensitive to early bvFTD, and advance understanding of neurocognitive changes that occur early in the disease. (JINS, 2019, 25, 184-194).
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Götz J, Halliday G, Nisbet RM. Molecular Pathogenesis of the Tauopathies. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY-MECHANISMS OF DISEASE 2018; 14:239-261. [PMID: 30355155 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathmechdis-012418-012936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The tauopathies constitute a group of diseases that have Tau inclusions in neurons or glia as their common denominator. In this review, we describe the biochemical and histological differences in Tau pathology that are characteristic of the spectrum of frontotemporal lobar degeneration as primary tauopathies and of Alzheimer's disease as a secondary tauopathy, as well as the commonalities and differences between the familial and sporadic forms. Furthermore, we discuss selected advances in transgenic animal models in delineating the different pathomechanisms of Tau.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Götz
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia Campus, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia;
| | - Glenda Halliday
- Brain and Mind Centre and Central Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Rebecca M Nisbet
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia Campus, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia;
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Yang L, Zhong Z, Tong C, Jia H, Liu Y, Chen G. Single-Molecule Mechanical Folding and Unfolding of RNA Hairpins: Effects of Single A-U to A·C Pair Substitutions and Single Proton Binding and Implications for mRNA Structure-Induced -1 Ribosomal Frameshifting. J Am Chem Soc 2018; 140:8172-8184. [PMID: 29884019 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.8b02970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
A wobble A·C pair can be protonated at near physiological pH to form a more stable wobble A+·C pair. Here, we constructed an RNA hairpin (rHP) and three mutants with one A-U base pair substituted with an A·C mismatch on the top (near the loop, U22C), middle (U25C), and bottom (U29C) positions of the stem, respectively. Our results on single-molecule mechanical (un)folding using optical tweezers reveal the destabilization effect of A-U to A·C pair substitution and protonation-dependent enhancement of mechanical stability facilitated through an increased folding rate, or decreased unfolding rate, or both. Our data show that protonation may occur rapidly upon the formation of an apparent mechanical folding transition state. Furthermore, we measured the bulk -1 ribosomal frameshifting efficiencies of the hairpins by a cell-free translation assay. For the mRNA hairpins studied, -1 frameshifting efficiency correlates with mechanical unfolding force at equilibrium and folding rate at around 15 pN. U29C has a frameshifting efficiency similar to that of rHP (∼2%). Accordingly, the bottom 2-4 base pairs of U29C may not form under a stretching force at pH 7.3, which is consistent with the fact that the bottom base pairs of the hairpins may be disrupted by ribosome at the slippery site. U22C and U25C have a similar frameshifting efficiency (∼1%), indicating that both unfolding and folding rates of an mRNA hairpin in a crowded environment may affect frameshifting. Our data indicate that mechanical (un)folding of RNA hairpins may mimic how mRNAs unfold and fold in the presence of translating ribosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixia Yang
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences , Nanyang Technological University , 21 Nanyang Link , Singapore 637371
| | - Zhensheng Zhong
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences , Nanyang Technological University , 21 Nanyang Link , Singapore 637371.,School of Physics, and State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies , Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou 510275 , People's Republic of China
| | - Cailing Tong
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences , Nanyang Technological University , 21 Nanyang Link , Singapore 637371
| | - Huan Jia
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences , Nanyang Technological University , 21 Nanyang Link , Singapore 637371
| | - Yiran Liu
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences , Nanyang Technological University , 21 Nanyang Link , Singapore 637371
| | - Gang Chen
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences , Nanyang Technological University , 21 Nanyang Link , Singapore 637371
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Cheran G, Silverman H, Manoochehri M, Goldman J, Lee S, Wu L, Cines S, Fallon E, Kelly BD, Olszewska DA, Heidebrink J, Shair S, Campbell S, Paulson H, Lynch T, Cosentino S, Huey ED. Psychiatric symptoms in preclinical behavioural-variant frontotemporal dementia in MAPT mutation carriers. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2018; 89:449-455. [PMID: 29353234 PMCID: PMC6317727 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2017-317263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterise psychiatric symptoms in preclinical and early behavioural-variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD), a neurodegenerative disorder whose symptoms overlap with and are often mistaken for psychiatric illness. METHODS The present study reports findings from a systematic, global, prospective evaluation of psychiatric symptoms in 12 preclinical carriers of pathogenic MAPT mutations, not yet meeting bvFTD diagnostic criteria, and 46 familial non-carrier controls. Current psychiatric symptoms, informant-reported symptoms and lifetime prevalence of psychiatric disorders were assessed with The Structured Clinical Interview for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) and the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire. Fisher exact test was used to compare carriers and non-carriers' lifetime prevalence of six DSM-IV disorders: major depressive disorder, panic attacks, alcohol abuse, generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and depressive disorder not otherwise specified. Other DSM-IV disorders had insufficient prevalence across our sample for between-group comparisons, but are reported. RESULTS Non-carriers had greater prevalence of mood and anxiety disorders than has been reported for a general reference population. Preclinical carriers had lower lifetime prevalence of mood and anxiety disorders than non-carriers, except for depressive disorder not otherwise specified, an atypical syndrome comprising clinically significant depressive symptoms which fail to meet criteria for major depressive disorder. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that early psychiatric symptoms of emergent bvFTD may manifest as emotional blunting or mood changes not cleanly conforming to criteria for a DSM-defined mood disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayathri Cheran
- G H Sergievsky Center &Taub Institute in the Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Hannah Silverman
- G H Sergievsky Center &Taub Institute in the Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Masood Manoochehri
- G H Sergievsky Center &Taub Institute in the Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Jill Goldman
- G H Sergievsky Center &Taub Institute in the Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Seonjoo Lee
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Liwen Wu
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Sarah Cines
- G H Sergievsky Center &Taub Institute in the Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Emer Fallon
- Department of Neurology, Dublin Neurological Institute at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Brendan Desmond Kelly
- Department of Neurology, Dublin Neurological Institute at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Tallaght Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Diana Angelika Olszewska
- Department of Neurology, Dublin Neurological Institute at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Judith Heidebrink
- Department of Neurology, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Sarah Shair
- Department of Neurology, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Stephen Campbell
- Department of Neurology, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Henry Paulson
- Department of Neurology, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Timothy Lynch
- Department of Neurology, Dublin Neurological Institute at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Stephanie Cosentino
- G H Sergievsky Center &Taub Institute in the Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Edward D Huey
- Departments of Psychiatry & Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, USA
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Jones DT, Knopman DS, Graff-Radford J, Syrjanen JA, Senjem ML, Schwarz CG, Dheel C, Wszolek Z, Rademakers R, Kantarci K, Petersen RC, Jack CR, Lowe VJ, Boeve BF. In vivo 18F-AV-1451 tau PET signal in MAPT mutation carriers varies by expected tau isoforms. Neurology 2018; 90:e947-e954. [PMID: 29440563 PMCID: PMC5858948 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000005117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate 18F-AV-1451 tau PET binding among microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT) mutation carriers. METHODS Using a case-control study, we quantitatively and qualitatively compared tau PET scans in 10 symptomatic and 3 asymptomatic MAPT mutation carriers (n = 13, age range 42-67 years) with clinically normal (CN) participants (n = 241, age range 42-67 years) and an Alzheimer disease (AD) dementia cohort (n = 30, age range 52-67 years). Eight participants had MAPT mutations that involved exon 10 (N279K n = 5, S305N n = 2, P301L n = 1) and tend to form 4R tau pathology, and 5 had mutations outside exon 10 (V337M n = 2, R406W n = 3) and tend to form mixed 3R/4R tau pathology. RESULTS Tau PET signal was qualitatively and quantitatively different between participants with AD, CN participants, and MAPT mutation carriers, with the greatest signal intensity in those with AD and minimal regional signal in MAPT mutation carries with mutations in exon 10. However, MAPT mutation carriers with mutations outside exon 10 had uptake levels within the AD range, which was significantly higher than both MAPT mutation carriers with mutations in exon 10 and controls. CONCLUSIONS Tau PET shows higher magnitude of binding in MAPT mutation carriers who harbor mutations that are more likely to produce AD-like tau pathology (e.g., in our series, the non-exon 10 families tend to accumulate mixed 3R/4R aggregates). Exon 10 splicing determines the balance of 3R and 4R tau isoforms, with some mutations involving exon 10 predisposing to a greater proportion of 4R aggregates and consequently a lower level of AV-1451 binding, as seen in this case series, thus supporting the notion that this tau PET ligand has specific binding properties for AD-like tau pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- David T Jones
- From the Departments of Neurology (D.T.J., D.S.K., J.G.-R., C.D., R.C.P., B.F.B.), Radiology (D.T.J., C.G.S., K.K., C.R.J., V.J.L.), Health Sciences Research (J.A.S.), and Information Technology (M.L.S.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Departments of Neurology (Z.W.) and Neuroscience (R.R.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL.
| | - David S Knopman
- From the Departments of Neurology (D.T.J., D.S.K., J.G.-R., C.D., R.C.P., B.F.B.), Radiology (D.T.J., C.G.S., K.K., C.R.J., V.J.L.), Health Sciences Research (J.A.S.), and Information Technology (M.L.S.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Departments of Neurology (Z.W.) and Neuroscience (R.R.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
| | - Jonathan Graff-Radford
- From the Departments of Neurology (D.T.J., D.S.K., J.G.-R., C.D., R.C.P., B.F.B.), Radiology (D.T.J., C.G.S., K.K., C.R.J., V.J.L.), Health Sciences Research (J.A.S.), and Information Technology (M.L.S.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Departments of Neurology (Z.W.) and Neuroscience (R.R.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
| | - Jeremy A Syrjanen
- From the Departments of Neurology (D.T.J., D.S.K., J.G.-R., C.D., R.C.P., B.F.B.), Radiology (D.T.J., C.G.S., K.K., C.R.J., V.J.L.), Health Sciences Research (J.A.S.), and Information Technology (M.L.S.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Departments of Neurology (Z.W.) and Neuroscience (R.R.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
| | - Matthew L Senjem
- From the Departments of Neurology (D.T.J., D.S.K., J.G.-R., C.D., R.C.P., B.F.B.), Radiology (D.T.J., C.G.S., K.K., C.R.J., V.J.L.), Health Sciences Research (J.A.S.), and Information Technology (M.L.S.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Departments of Neurology (Z.W.) and Neuroscience (R.R.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
| | - Christopher G Schwarz
- From the Departments of Neurology (D.T.J., D.S.K., J.G.-R., C.D., R.C.P., B.F.B.), Radiology (D.T.J., C.G.S., K.K., C.R.J., V.J.L.), Health Sciences Research (J.A.S.), and Information Technology (M.L.S.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Departments of Neurology (Z.W.) and Neuroscience (R.R.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
| | - Christina Dheel
- From the Departments of Neurology (D.T.J., D.S.K., J.G.-R., C.D., R.C.P., B.F.B.), Radiology (D.T.J., C.G.S., K.K., C.R.J., V.J.L.), Health Sciences Research (J.A.S.), and Information Technology (M.L.S.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Departments of Neurology (Z.W.) and Neuroscience (R.R.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
| | - Zbigniew Wszolek
- From the Departments of Neurology (D.T.J., D.S.K., J.G.-R., C.D., R.C.P., B.F.B.), Radiology (D.T.J., C.G.S., K.K., C.R.J., V.J.L.), Health Sciences Research (J.A.S.), and Information Technology (M.L.S.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Departments of Neurology (Z.W.) and Neuroscience (R.R.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
| | - Rosa Rademakers
- From the Departments of Neurology (D.T.J., D.S.K., J.G.-R., C.D., R.C.P., B.F.B.), Radiology (D.T.J., C.G.S., K.K., C.R.J., V.J.L.), Health Sciences Research (J.A.S.), and Information Technology (M.L.S.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Departments of Neurology (Z.W.) and Neuroscience (R.R.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
| | - Kejal Kantarci
- From the Departments of Neurology (D.T.J., D.S.K., J.G.-R., C.D., R.C.P., B.F.B.), Radiology (D.T.J., C.G.S., K.K., C.R.J., V.J.L.), Health Sciences Research (J.A.S.), and Information Technology (M.L.S.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Departments of Neurology (Z.W.) and Neuroscience (R.R.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
| | - Ronald C Petersen
- From the Departments of Neurology (D.T.J., D.S.K., J.G.-R., C.D., R.C.P., B.F.B.), Radiology (D.T.J., C.G.S., K.K., C.R.J., V.J.L.), Health Sciences Research (J.A.S.), and Information Technology (M.L.S.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Departments of Neurology (Z.W.) and Neuroscience (R.R.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
| | - Clifford R Jack
- From the Departments of Neurology (D.T.J., D.S.K., J.G.-R., C.D., R.C.P., B.F.B.), Radiology (D.T.J., C.G.S., K.K., C.R.J., V.J.L.), Health Sciences Research (J.A.S.), and Information Technology (M.L.S.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Departments of Neurology (Z.W.) and Neuroscience (R.R.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
| | - Val J Lowe
- From the Departments of Neurology (D.T.J., D.S.K., J.G.-R., C.D., R.C.P., B.F.B.), Radiology (D.T.J., C.G.S., K.K., C.R.J., V.J.L.), Health Sciences Research (J.A.S.), and Information Technology (M.L.S.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Departments of Neurology (Z.W.) and Neuroscience (R.R.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
| | - Bradley F Boeve
- From the Departments of Neurology (D.T.J., D.S.K., J.G.-R., C.D., R.C.P., B.F.B.), Radiology (D.T.J., C.G.S., K.K., C.R.J., V.J.L.), Health Sciences Research (J.A.S.), and Information Technology (M.L.S.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Departments of Neurology (Z.W.) and Neuroscience (R.R.), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
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Olszewska DA, McVeigh T, Fallon EM, Pastores GM, Lynch T. The benefits of a Neurogenetics clinic in an adult Academic Teaching Hospital. Ir J Med Sci 2018. [PMID: 29524103 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-018-1784-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Genetics is the backbone of Neurology, where a number of disorders have a genetic aetiology and are complex, requiring a dedicated Neurogenetics clinic. Genetics in the Republic of Ireland is under-resourced, with the lowest number of consultants per million of population in Europe. In November 2014, we established the monthly adult Neurogenetics clinic in Ireland, staffed by 2 consultants and 2 registrars from each speciality. We see patients with complex rare neurological conditions that may potentially have an underlying genetic basis, in the presence or absence of a family history. We performed a retrospective cohort analysis, reviewing symptoms and work-up data. Twenty-seven patients attended a pilot clinic over 12 months. Conditions encountered included Parkin-related PD, leucodystrophy, ataxia, fronto-temporal lobar degeneration, spinocerebellar ataxia type 6 (SCA6) and ataxia-telangiectasia. Identification of pathogenic mutations directed screening, treatment and facilitated onward genetic counselling (n = 10, 33%). A number of novel mutations were identified in MAPT gene ("missing tau mutation" McCarthy et al., Brain, 2015), SLCA1 gene and GRN (progranulin). Phenotypic features not previously reported were seen; e.g. writer's cramp in SCA6; paroxysmal myoclonus in the glucose transporter protein type 1 (GLUT1) deficiency. Breast cancer screening for ATM mutations carriers and referral to international experts in two undiagnosed patients were arranged. The establishment of a Neurogenetics clinic has addressed a gap in service and allowed identification of rare and atypical diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana A Olszewska
- Department of Neurology, The Dublin Neurological Institute at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, 57 Eccles Street, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Terri McVeigh
- Department of Genetics, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Emer M Fallon
- Department of Neurology, The Dublin Neurological Institute at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, 57 Eccles Street, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gregory M Pastores
- National Center for Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Tim Lynch
- Department of Neurology, The Dublin Neurological Institute at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, 57 Eccles Street, Dublin, Ireland
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Nizynski B, Dzwolak W, Nieznanski K. Amyloidogenesis of Tau protein. Protein Sci 2017; 26:2126-2150. [PMID: 28833749 DOI: 10.1002/pro.3275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The role of microtubule-associated protein Tau in neurodegeneration has been extensively investigated since the discovery of Tau amyloid aggregates in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The process of formation of amyloid fibrils is known as amyloidogenesis and attracts much attention as a potential target in the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative conditions linked to protein aggregation. Cerebral deposition of amyloid aggregates of Tau is observed not only in AD but also in numerous other tauopathies and prion diseases. Amyloidogenesis of intrinsically unstructured monomers of Tau can be triggered by mutations in the Tau gene, post-translational modifications, or interactions with polyanionic molecules and aggregation-prone proteins/peptides. The self-assembly of amyloid fibrils of Tau shares a number of characteristic features with amyloidogenesis of other proteins involved in neurodegenerative diseases. For example, in vitro experiments have demonstrated that the nucleation phase, which is the rate-limiting stage of Tau amyloidogenesis, is shortened in the presence of fragmented preformed Tau fibrils acting as aggregation templates ("seeds"). Accordingly, Tau aggregates released by tauopathy-affected neurons can spread the neurodegenerative process in the brain through a prion-like mechanism, originally described for the pathogenic form of prion protein. Moreover, Tau has been shown to form amyloid strains-structurally diverse self-propagating aggregates of potentially various pathological effects, resembling in this respect prion strains. Here, we review the current literature on Tau aggregation and discuss mechanisms of propagation of Tau amyloid in the light of the prion-like paradigm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bartosz Nizynski
- College of Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Warsaw, 2C Banacha Str, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland.,Faculty of Chemistry, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw, 1 Pasteur Str, Warsaw, 02-093, Poland
| | - Wojciech Dzwolak
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw, 1 Pasteur Str, Warsaw, 02-093, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Nieznanski
- Department of Biochemistry, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology of Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Pasteur Str, Warsaw, 02-093, Poland
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Abstract
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is the second most common cause of dementia following Alzheimer's disease (AD). Between 20 and 50% of cases are familial. Mutations in MAPT, GRN and C9orf72 are found in 60% of familial FTD cases. C9orf72 mutations are the most common and account for 25%. Rarer mutations (<5%) occur in other genes such as VPC, CHMP2B, TARDP, FUS, ITM2B, TBK1 and TBP. The diagnosis is often challenging due to symptom overlap with AD and other conditions. We review the genetics, clinical presentations, neuroimaging, neuropathology, animal studies and therapeutic trials in FTD. We describe clinical scenarios including the original family with the tau stem loop mutation (+14) and also the recently discovered 'missing tau' mutation +15 that 'closed the loop' in 2015.
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28
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Pottier C, Ravenscroft TA, Sanchez-Contreras M, Rademakers R. Genetics of FTLD: overview and what else we can expect from genetic studies. J Neurochem 2017; 138 Suppl 1:32-53. [PMID: 27009575 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Revised: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 03/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) comprises a highly heterogeneous group of disorders clinically associated with behavioral and personality changes, language impairment, and deficits in executive functioning, and pathologically associated with degeneration of frontal and temporal lobes. Some patients present with motor symptoms including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Genetic research over the past two decades in FTLD families led to the identification of three common FTLD genes (microtubule-associated protein tau, progranulin, and chromosome 9 open reading frame 72) and a small number of rare FTLD genes, explaining the disease in almost all autosomal dominant FTLD families but only a minority of apparently sporadic patients or patients in whom the family history is less clear. Identification of additional FTLD (risk) genes is therefore highly anticipated, especially with the emerging use of next-generation sequencing. Common variants in the transmembrane protein 106 B were identified as a genetic risk factor of FTLD and disease modifier in patients with known mutations. This review summarizes for each FTLD gene what we know about the type and frequency of mutations, their associated clinical and pathological features, and potential disease mechanisms. We also provide an overview of emerging disease pathways encompassing multiple FTLD genes. We further discuss how FTLD specific issues, such as disease heterogeneity, the presence of an unclear family history and the possible role of an oligogenic basis of FTLD, can pose challenges for future FTLD gene identification and risk assessment of specific variants. Finally, we highlight emerging clinical, genetic, and translational research opportunities that lie ahead. Genetic research led to the identification of three common FTLD genes with rare variants (MAPT, GRN, and C9orf72) and a small number of rare genes. Efforts are now ongoing, which aimed at the identification of rare variants with high risk and/or low frequency variants with intermediate effect. Common risk variants have also been identified, such as TMEM106B. This review discusses the current knowledge on FTLD genes and the emerging disease pathways encompassing multiple FTLD genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyril Pottier
- Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, Department of Neuroscience, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | | | | | - Rosa Rademakers
- Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, Department of Neuroscience, Jacksonville, FL, USA
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29
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Park SA, Ahn SI, Gallo JM. Tau mis-splicing in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. BMB Rep 2017; 49:405-13. [PMID: 27222125 PMCID: PMC5070727 DOI: 10.5483/bmbrep.2016.49.8.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Tau proteins, which stabilize the structure and regulate the dynamics of microtubules, also play important roles in axonal transport and signal transduction. Tau proteins are missorted, aggregated, and found as tau inclusions under many pathological conditions associated with neurodegenerative disorders, which are collectively known as tauopathies. In the adult human brain, tau protein can be expressed in six isoforms due to alternative splicing. The aberrant splicing of tau pre-mRNA has been consistently identified in a variety of tauopathies but is not restricted to these types of disorders as it is also present in patients with non-tau proteinopathies and RNAopathies. Tau mis-splicing results in isoform-specific impairments in normal physiological function and enhanced recruitment of excessive tau isoforms into the pathological process. A variety of factors are involved in the complex set of mechanisms underlying tau mis-splicing, but variation in the cis-element, methylation of the MAPT gene, genetic polymorphisms, the quantity and activity of spliceosomal proteins, and the patency of other RNA-binding proteins, are related to aberrant splicing. Currently, there is a lack of appropriate therapeutic strategies aimed at correcting the tau mis-splicing process in patients with neurodegenerative disorders. Thus, a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between tau mis-splicing and neurodegenerative disorders will aid in the development of efficient therapeutic strategies for patients with a tauopathy or other, related neurodegenerative disorders. [BMB Reports 2016; 49(8): 405-413]
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Ah Park
- Department of Neurology, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon 14584, Korea
| | - Sang Il Ahn
- Department of Neurology, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon 14584, Korea
| | - Jean-Marc Gallo
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 9NU, UK
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Microtubule Destabilization Paves the Way to Parkinson's Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:6762-6774. [PMID: 27757833 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0188-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Microtubules are dynamic structures normally associated to the cell division, during which they form the mitotic spindle, as well as to the initial phases of specification and polarization of various cell types, including neurons. Although microtubules could have a role in the death of many cells and tissues, the microtubule-based degenerative mechanisms have been poorly investigated; nevertheless, during the last two decades, many clues have been accumulated suggesting the importance of the microtubule system during neurodegeneration. Thus, the aim of this review is to analyse how the changes of the microtubule cytoskeleton, in terms of organization and dynamics, as well as the failure of the microtubule-dependent neuronal processes, as axonal transport, may play a pivotal role in the chain of events leading to Parkinson's disease. Last but not least, since disease-modifying or neuroprotective strategies are a clinical priority in Parkinson's disease, we will also present the hints about the concrete possibility of a microtubule-targeted therapy, which would have the potentiality to block the running degenerative events and to prompt the regeneration of the lost tissues.
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Calcium dysregulation contributes to neurodegeneration in FTLD patient iPSC-derived neurons. Sci Rep 2016; 6:34904. [PMID: 27721502 PMCID: PMC5056519 DOI: 10.1038/srep34904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the gene MAPT encoding tau, a microtubules-associated protein, cause a subtype of familial neurodegenerative disorder, known as frontotemporal lobar degeneration tauopathy (FTLD-Tau), which presents with dementia and is characterized by atrophy in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. Although induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology has facilitated the investigation of phenotypes of FTLD-Tau patient neuronal cells in vitro, it remains unclear how FTLD-Tau patient neurons degenerate. Here, we established neuronal models of FTLD-Tau by Neurogenin2-induced direct neuronal differentiation from FTLD-Tau patient iPSCs. We found that FTLD-Tau neurons, either with an intronic MAPT mutation or with an exonic mutation, developed accumulation and extracellular release of misfolded tau followed by neuronal death, which we confirmed by correction of the intronic mutation with CRISPR/Cas9. FTLD-Tau neurons showed dysregulation of the augmentation of Ca2+ transients evoked by electrical stimulation. Chemogenetic or pharmacological control of neuronal activity-relevant Ca2+ influx by the introduction of designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) or by the treatment with glutamate receptor blockers attenuated misfolded tau accumulation and neuronal death. These data suggest that neuronal activity may regulate neurodegeneration in tauopathy. This FTLD-Tau model provides mechanistic insights into tauopathy pathogenesis and potential avenues for treatments.
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32
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Mattsson N, Schott JM, Hardy J, Turner MR, Zetterberg H. Selective vulnerability in neurodegeneration: insights from clinical variants of Alzheimer's disease. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2016; 87:1000-4. [PMID: 26746185 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2015-311321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Selective vulnerability in the nervous system refers to the fact that subpopulations of neurons in different brain systems may be more or less prone to abnormal function or death in response to specific types of pathological states or injury. The concept has been used extensively as a potential way of explaining differences in degeneration patterns and the clinical presentation of different neurodegenerative diseases. Yet the increasing complexity of molecular histopathology at the cellular level in neurodegenerative disorders frequently appears at odds with phenotyping based on clinically-directed, macroscopic regional brain involvement. While cross-disease comparisons can provide insights into the differential vulnerability of networks and neuronal populations, we focus here on what is known about selective vulnerability-related factors that might explain the differential phenotypic expressions of the same disease-in this case, typical and atypical forms of Alzheimer's disease. Whereas considerable progress has been made in this area, much is yet to be elucidated; further studies comparing different phenotypic variants aimed at identifying both vulnerability and resilience factors may provide valuable insights into disease pathogenesis, and suggest novel targets for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas Mattsson
- Clinical Memory Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - John Hardy
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Martin R Turner
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
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33
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Arendt T, Stieler JT, Holzer M. Tau and tauopathies. Brain Res Bull 2016; 126:238-292. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2016.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 333] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Revised: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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