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Aliyu M, Zohora FT, Ceylan A, Hossain F, Yazdani R, Azizi G. Immunopathogenesis of multiple sclerosis: molecular and cellular mechanisms and new immunotherapeutic approaches. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2024; 46:355-377. [PMID: 38634438 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2024.2330642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a central nervous system (CNS) demyelinating autoimmune disease with increasing global prevalence. It predominantly affects females, especially those of European descent. The interplay between environmental factors and genetic predisposition plays a crucial role in MS etiopathogenesis. METHODS We searched recent relevant literature on reputable databases, which include, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect using the following keywords: multiple sclerosis, pathogenesis, autoimmunity, demyelination, therapy, and immunotherapy. RESULTS Various animal models have been employed to investigate the MS etiopathogenesis and therapeutics. Autoreactive T cells within the CNS recruit myeloid cells through chemokine expression, leading to the secretion of inflammatory cytokines driving the MS pathogenesis, resulting in demyelination, gliosis, and axonal loss. Key players include T cell lymphocytes (CD4+ and CD8+), B cells, and neutrophils. Signaling dysregulation in inflammatory pathways and the immunogenetic basis of MS are essential considerations for any successful therapy to MS. Data indicates that B cells and neutrophils also have significant roles in MS, despite the common belief that T cells are essential. High neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratios correlate with MS severity, indicating their contribution to disease progression. Dysregulated signaling pathways further exacerbate MS progression. CONCLUSION MS remains incurable, but disease-modifying therapies, monoclonal antibodies, and immunomodulatory drugs offer hope for patients. Research on the immunogenetics and immunoregulatory functions of gut microbiota is continuing to provide light on possible treatment avenues. Understanding the complex interplay between genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and immune dysregulation is critical for developing effective treatments for MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansur Aliyu
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, International Campus, TUMS-IC, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Clinical Science, College of Health Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Fatema Tuz Zohora
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Ayca Ceylan
- Medical Faculty, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Immunology and Allergy, Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey
| | - Fariha Hossain
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Reza Yazdani
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Gholamreza Azizi
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Non-communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
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2
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Arneth B. Regulatory T Cells in Multiple Sclerosis Diagnostics-What Do We Know So Far? J Pers Med 2023; 14:29. [PMID: 38248730 PMCID: PMC10821144 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14010029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system (CNS) through inflammation. MS symptoms become acute if the disease progresses to the relapsing phase. AIM This review aimed to evaluate the role played by regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the pathogenesis of MS. METHODS This review used scholarly journal articles obtained from PubMed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL with different search parameters such as 'regulatory T cells', 'multiple sclerosis', and 'current knowledge'. The process of searching for articles was limited to those that had publication dates falling between 2010 and 2020. RESULTS Tregs play a role in the pathogenesis of MS. This conclusion is supported by animal disease models and environmental factors that can underlie Treg alterations in MS. Despite the knowledge of the role played by Tregs in MS pathogenesis, the specific subsets of Tregs involved in MS development remain incompletely understood. DISCUSSION This review provides an essential link between Tregs and MS activity. Targeting Tregs could be an efficient way to establish new treatment methods for MS management. CONCLUSION MS is a complex condition affecting many people worldwide. Research has shown that Tregs can influence MS development and progression. More investigations are needed to understand how Tregs affect the pathogenesis of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borros Arneth
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany;
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
- Hospital of the Universities of Giessen and Marburg, 35392 Giessen, Germany
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3
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Hannaford A, Byth K, Pavey N, Henderson RD, Mathers S, Needham M, Schultz D, Menon P, Kiernan MC, Vucic S. Clinical and neurophysiological biomarkers of disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Muscle Nerve 2023; 67:17-24. [PMID: 36214183 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27736] [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: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Rate of disease progression (ΔFS), measured as change in the revised Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS-R) and body mass index (BMI), are predictors of survival in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Our aim in this study was to assess the utility of these clinical biomarkers along with neurophysiological measures, such as the split hand index (SI), in monitoring disease progression. METHODS Clinical trial data were collected from 107 patients recruited into the Tecfidera in ALS trial. The prognostic utility of clinical and neurophysiological measures, including ΔFS, BMI, SI, and neurophysiological index (NPI), were assessed cross-sectionally and longitudinally (40 weeks). The outcome measures of disease severity and progression included: (i) ALSFRS-R score; (ii) Medical Research Council (MRC) score; and (iii) forced vital capacity and sniff nasal inspiratory pressure. RESULTS Fast-progressor ALS patients (ΔFS ≥1.1) exhibited significantly lower ALSFRS-R and total MRC scores at baseline. A baseline ΔFS score ≥1.1 was associated with a greater reduction in ALSFRS-R (P = .002) and MRC (P = .002) scores over 40 weeks. Baseline BMI <25 was also associated with faster reduction of ALSFRS-R and MRC scores. SI and NPI were associated with disease severity at baseline, but not with subsequent rate of disease progression. DISCUSSION Implementation of the assessed clinical and neurophysiological biomarkers may assist in patient management and stratification into clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Hannaford
- Brain and Nerve Research Centre, Concord Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Karen Byth
- NHMRC Clinica Trials Center, Westmead Hospital, Research and Education Network, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia.,NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nathan Pavey
- Brain and Nerve Research Centre, Concord Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robert D Henderson
- Department of Neurology, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Susan Mathers
- Department of Neurology, Calvary Health Care Bethlehem, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Merrilee Needham
- Department of Neurology, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch, Australia.,Centre for Molecular Medicine, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Department of Neurology, University of Notre Dame, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia
| | - David Schultz
- Department of Neurology, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Flinders University of South Australia, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Parvathi Menon
- Brain and Nerve Research Centre, Concord Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Matthew C Kiernan
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Steve Vucic
- Brain and Nerve Research Centre, Concord Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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4
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Role of Nrf2 in aging, Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 82:101756. [PMID: 36243357 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear Factor-Erythroid Factor 2 (Nrf2) is an important transcription factor that regulates the expression of large number of genes in healthy and disease states. Nrf2 is made up of 605 amino acids and contains 7 conserved regions known as Nrf2-ECH homology domains. Nrf2 regulates the expression of several key components of oxidative stress, mitochondrial biogenesis, mitophagy, autophagy and mitochondrial function in all organs of the human body, in the peripheral and central nervous systems. Mounting evidence also suggests that altered expression of Nrf2 is largely involved in aging, neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's diseases, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Stroke, Multiple sclerosis and others. The purpose of this article is to detail the essential role of Nrf2 in oxidative stress, antioxidative defense, detoxification, inflammatory responses, transcription factors, proteasomal and autophagic/mitophagic degradation, and metabolism in aging and neurodegenerative diseases. This article also highlights the Nrf2 structural and functional activities in healthy and disease states, and also discusses the current status of Nrf2 research and therapeutic strategies to treat aging and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Ahmed N, Baker MR, Bashford J. The landscape of neurophysiological outcome measures in ALS interventional trials: A systematic review. Clin Neurophysiol 2022; 137:132-141. [PMID: 35313253 PMCID: PMC10166714 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2022.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We collated all interventional clinical trials in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which utilised at least one neurophysiological technique as a primary or secondary outcome measure. By identifying the strengths and limitations of these studies, we aim to guide study design in future trials. METHODS We conducted and reported this systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Eight databases were searched from inception. In total, 703 studies were retrieved for screening and eligibility assessment. RESULTS Dating back to 1986, 32 eligible interventional clinical trials were identified, recruiting a median of 30 patients per completed trial. The most widely employed neurophysiological techniques were electromyography, motor unit number estimation (including motor unit number index), neurophysiological index and transcranial magnetic stimulation (including resting motor threshold and short-interval intracortical inhibition). Almost 40% of trials reported a positive outcome with respect to at least one neurophysiological measure. The interventions targeted either ion channels, immune mechanisms or neuronal metabolic pathways. CONCLUSIONS Neurophysiology offers many promising biomarkers that can be utilised as outcome measures in interventional clinical trials in ALS. When selecting the most appropriate technique, key considerations include methodological standardisation, target engagement and logistical burden. SIGNIFICANCE Future trial design in ALS would benefit from a standardised, updated and easily accessible repository of neurophysiological outcome measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Ahmed
- GKT School of Medical Education, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, UK
| | - M R Baker
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - J Bashford
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK.
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6
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Liu E, Karpf L, Bohl D. Neuroinflammation in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Dementia and the Interest of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Study Immune Cells Interactions With Neurons. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 14:767041. [PMID: 34970118 PMCID: PMC8712677 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.767041] [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: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is a shared hallmark between amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). For long, studies were conducted on tissues of post-mortem patients and neuroinflammation was thought to be only bystander result of the disease with the immune system reacting to dying neurons. In the last two decades, thanks to improving technologies, the identification of causal genes and the development of new tools and models, the involvement of inflammation has emerged as a potential driver of the diseases and evolved as a new area of intense research. In this review, we present the current knowledge about neuroinflammation in ALS, ALS-FTD, and FTD patients and animal models and we discuss reasons of failures linked to therapeutic trials with immunomodulator drugs. Then we present the induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology and its interest as a new tool to have a better immunopathological comprehension of both diseases in a human context. The iPSC technology giving the unique opportunity to study cells across differentiation and maturation times, brings the hope to shed light on the different mechanisms linking neurodegeneration and activation of the immune system. Protocols available to differentiate iPSC into different immune cell types are presented. Finally, we discuss the interest in studying monocultures of iPS-derived immune cells, co-cultures with neurons and 3D cultures with different cell types, as more integrated cellular approaches. The hope is that the future work with human iPS-derived cells helps not only to identify disease-specific defects in the different cell types but also to decipher the synergistic effects between neurons and immune cells. These new cellular tools could help to find new therapeutic approaches for all patients with ALS, ALS-FTD, and FTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Liu
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Léa Karpf
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Delphine Bohl
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
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7
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ROS-Induced mtDNA Release: The Emerging Messenger for Communication between Neurons and Innate Immune Cells during Neurodegenerative Disorder Progression. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10121917. [PMID: 34943020 PMCID: PMC8750316 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10121917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most striking hallmarks shared by various neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is microglia-mediated and astrocyte-mediated neuroinflammation. Although inhibitions of both harmful proteins and aggregation are major treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, whether the phenomenon of non-normal protein or peptide aggregation is causally related to neuronal loss and synaptic damage is still controversial. Currently, excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which induces mitochondrial dysfunction in neurons that may play a key role in the regulation of immune cells, is proposed as a regulator in neurological disorders. In this review, we propose that mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) release due to ROS may act on microglia and astrocytes adjacent to neurons to induce inflammation through activation of innate immune responses (such as cGAS/STING). Elucidating the relationship between mtDNA and the formation of a pro-inflammatory microenvironment could contribute to a better understanding of the mechanism of crosstalk between neuronal and peripheral immune cells and lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches to neurodegenerative diseases.
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8
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Sugimoto K, Liu J, Li M, Song Y, Zhang C, Zhai Z, Gao Y. Neuroprotective Effects of Shenqi Fuzheng Injection in a Transgenic SOD1-G93A Mouse Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:701886. [PMID: 34737697 PMCID: PMC8560685 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.701886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease, in the pathogenesis of which oxidative stress (OS) was believed to play a key role. Shenqi Fuzheng Injection (SFI) concocted from two kinds of Chinese medicinal herbs, Radix Codonopsis and Radix Astragali, was proven to be eligible to reduce the OS injury and increase the activity of the nuclear factor-erythroid-2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway, an antioxidant enzymes inducer. Objective: We aim to investigate the effects and potential mechanisms underlying the action of SFI on a well-established transgenic mouse model of ALS. Methods: Transgenic SOD1-G93A mice were intraperitoneally injected with SFI (40 ml/kg) three times a week from 87 days of age. Motor function, survival, pathological manifestations in the brain, and Nrf2 pathway-related assessments of the mice were performed. Results: SFI treatment efficiently postponed the disease onset (p = 0.022) and extended the overall survival (p = 0.038) of the SOD1-G93A mice. Moreover, SFI significantly reduced motor neuron loss (p < 0.001) and astrocytic activation (p < 0.05) in the motor cortex of the brain of SOD1-G93A mice at 130 days of age. The protective effects of SFI in the SOD1-G93A mice were associated with decreasing the level of malondialdehyde (p < 0.05) and increasing the levels of superoxide dismutase (p < 0.05), Nrf2 (p < 0.05), heme oxygenase-1 (p < 0.05), and glutathione S-transferase (p < 0.05) in the SOD1-G93A mice. Conclusion: The SFI treatment efficiently extended the overall survival and improved the pathological manifestations of the brain via alleviating the OS injury and activating the Nrf2 pathway in the animal model of ALS, which made SFI a potentially promising candidate for ALS treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuo Sugimoto
- Department of Neurology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Neurology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - MingXuan Li
- Department of Neurology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - YueBo Song
- Department of Neurology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - ZhiGuang Zhai
- Institute of Basic Theory for Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Third Affiliated Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Gao
- Department of Neurology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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Bono S, Feligioni M, Corbo M. Impaired antioxidant KEAP1-NRF2 system in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: NRF2 activation as a potential therapeutic strategy. Mol Neurodegener 2021; 16:71. [PMID: 34663413 PMCID: PMC8521937 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-021-00479-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oxidative stress (OS) is an imbalance between oxidant and antioxidant species and, together with other numerous pathological mechanisms, leads to the degeneration and death of motor neurons (MNs) in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). MAIN BODY Two of the main players in the molecular and cellular response to OS are NRF2, the transcription nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, and its principal negative regulator, KEAP1, Kelch-like ECH (erythroid cell-derived protein with CNC homology)-associated protein 1. Here we first provide an overview of the structural organization, regulation, and critical role of the KEAP1-NRF2 system in counteracting OS, with a focus on its alteration in ALS. We then examine several compounds capable of promoting NRF2 activity thereby inducing cytoprotective effects, and which are currently in different stages of clinical development for many pathologies, including neurodegenerative diseases. CONCLUSIONS Although challenges associated with some of these compounds remain, important advances have been made in the development of safer and more effective drugs that could actually represent a breakthrough for fatal degenerative diseases such as ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Bono
- Need Institute, Laboratory of Neurobiology for Translational Medicine, c/o Casa di Cura del Policlinico (CCP), Via Dezza 48, 20144 Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Feligioni
- Need Institute, Laboratory of Neurobiology for Translational Medicine, c/o Casa di Cura del Policlinico (CCP), Via Dezza 48, 20144 Milan, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuronal Cell Signaling, EBRI Rita Levi-Montalcini Foundation, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Corbo
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, Casa di Cura del Policlinico (CCP), Via Dezza 48, 20144 Milan, Italy
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10
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Vucic S, Henderson RD, Mathers S, Needham M, Schultz D, Kiernan MC. Safety and efficacy of dimethyl fumarate in ALS: randomised controlled study. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2021; 8:1991-1999. [PMID: 34477330 PMCID: PMC8528453 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neuroinflammation is an important pathogenic mechanism in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), with regulatory T cells (Tregs) mediating a slower rate of disease progression. Dimethyl fumarate enhances Treg levels and suppresses pro-inflammatory T cells. The present study assessed the safety and efficacy of dimethyl fumarate in ALS. METHODS Phase-2, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised clinical trial recruited participants from May 1, 2018 to September 25, 2019, across six Australian sites. Participants were randomised (2:1 ratio) to dimethyl fumarate (480 mg/day) or matching placebo, completing visits at screening, baseline, weeks 12, 24 and 36. The primary efficacy endpoint was a change in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R) at week 36. Secondary outcome measures included survival, neurophysiological index (NI), respiratory function, urinary neurotrophin-receptor p75 and quality of life. RESULTS A total of 107 participants were randomised to dimethyl fumarate (n = 72) or placebo (n = 35). ALSFRS-R score was not significantly different at week 36 (-1.12 [-3.75 to 1.52, p = 0.41]). Dimethyl fumarate was associated with a reduced NI decline week 36 (differences in the least-squares mean: (0.84 [-0.51 to 2.22, p = 0.22]). There were no significant differences in other secondary outcome measures. Safety profiles were comparable between groups. INTERPRETATION Dimethyl fumarate, in combination with riluzole, was safe and well-tolerated in ALS. There was no significant improvement in the primary endpoint. The trial provides class I evidence for safety and lack of efficacy of dimethyl fumarate in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Vucic
- Brain and Nerve Research Centre, Concord Clinical School, Concord Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Robert D Henderson
- Department of Neurology, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Susan Mathers
- Department of Neurology, Calvary Health Care Bethlehem, Caulfield South, Australia
| | - Merrilee Needham
- Department of Neurology, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Australia.,University of Notre Dame, Fremantle, Australia
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11
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Molecular Alterations in Sporadic and SOD1-ALS Immortalized Lymphocytes: Towards a Personalized Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063007. [PMID: 33809456 PMCID: PMC8000750 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurological condition where motor neurons (MNs) degenerate. Most of the ALS cases are sporadic (sALS), whereas 10% are hereditarily transmitted (fALS), among which mutations are found in the gene that codes for the enzyme superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1). A central question in ALS field is whether causative mutations display selective alterations not found in sALS patients, or they converge on shared molecular pathways. To identify specific and common mechanisms for designing appropriate therapeutic interventions, we focused on the SOD1-mutated (SOD1-ALS) versus sALS patients. Since ALS pathology involves different cell types other than MNs, we generated lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) from sALS and SOD1-ALS patients and healthy donors and investigated whether they show changes in oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, metabolic disturbances, the antioxidant NRF2 pathway, inflammatory profile, and autophagic flux. Both oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis appear to be upregulated in lymphoblasts from sALS and SOD1-ALS. Our results indicate significant differences in NRF2/ARE pathway between sALS and SOD1-ALS lymphoblasts. Furthermore, levels of inflammatory cytokines and autophagic flux discriminate between sALS and SOD1-ALS lymphoblasts. Overall, different molecular mechanisms are involved in sALS and SOD1-ALS patients and thus, personalized medicine should be developed for each case.
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12
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Kiernan MC, Vucic S, Talbot K, McDermott CJ, Hardiman O, Shefner JM, Al-Chalabi A, Huynh W, Cudkowicz M, Talman P, Van den Berg LH, Dharmadasa T, Wicks P, Reilly C, Turner MR. Improving clinical trial outcomes in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Nat Rev Neurol 2021; 17:104-118. [PMID: 33340024 PMCID: PMC7747476 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-020-00434-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Individuals who are diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) today face the same historically intransigent problem that has existed since the initial description of the disease in the 1860s - a lack of effective therapies. In part, the development of new treatments has been hampered by an imperfect understanding of the biological processes that trigger ALS and promote disease progression. Advances in our understanding of these biological processes, including the causative genetic mutations, and of the influence of environmental factors have deepened our appreciation of disease pathophysiology. The consequent identification of pathogenic targets means that the introduction of effective therapies is becoming a realistic prospect. Progress in precision medicine, including genetically targeted therapies, will undoubtedly change the natural history of ALS. The evolution of clinical trial designs combined with improved methods for patient stratification will facilitate the translation of novel therapies into the clinic. In addition, the refinement of emerging biomarkers of therapeutic benefits is critical to the streamlining of care for individuals. In this Review, we synthesize these developments in ALS and discuss the further developments and refinements needed to accelerate the introduction of effective therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C Kiernan
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
- Institute of Clinical Neurosciences, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Steve Vucic
- Sydney Medical School Westmead, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kevin Talbot
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christopher J McDermott
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- NIHR Sheffield Biomedical Research Centre, Sheffield, UK
| | - Orla Hardiman
- Academic Neurology Unit, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- National Neuroscience Centre, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jeremy M Shefner
- Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, University of Arizona College of Medicine Phoenix, Creighton University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Ammar Al-Chalabi
- King's College London, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - William Huynh
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Institute of Clinical Neurosciences, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Merit Cudkowicz
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paul Talman
- Neurosciences Department, Barwon Health District, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Leonard H Van den Berg
- Department of Neurology, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Thanuja Dharmadasa
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Paul Wicks
- Wicks Digital Health, Lichfield, United Kingdom
| | - Claire Reilly
- The Motor Neurone Disease Association of New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Martin R Turner
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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13
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Li S, Vaziri ND, Swentek L, Takasu C, Vo K, Stamos MJ, Ricordi C, Ichii H. Prevention of Autoimmune Diabetes in NOD Mice by Dimethyl Fumarate. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10020193. [PMID: 33572792 PMCID: PMC7912218 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10020193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress plays critical roles in the pathogenesis of diabetes. This study tested the hypothesis that by protecting β-cells against oxidative stress and inflammation, an Nrf2 activator, dimethyl fumarate (DMF), may prevent or delay the onset of type 1 diabetes in non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice. Firstly, islet isolation was conducted to confirm the antioxidative effects of DMF oral administration on islet cells. Secondly, in a spontaneous diabetes model, DMF (25 mg/kg) was fed to mice once daily starting at the age of 8 weeks up to the age of 22 weeks. In a cyclophosphamide-induced accelerated diabetes model, DMF (25 mg/kg) was fed to mice twice daily for 2 weeks. In the islet isolation study, DMF administration improved the isolation yield, attenuated oxidative stress and enhanced GCLC and NQO1 expression in the islets. In the spontaneous model, DMF significantly reduced the onset of diabetes compared to the control group (25% vs. 54.2%). In the accelerated model, DMF reduced the onset of diabetes from 58.3% to 16.7%. The insulitis score in the islets of the DMF treatment group (1.6 ± 0.32) was significantly lower than in the control group (3.47 ± 0.21). The serum IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-9, IL-12p70, IFN-γ, TNF-α, MCP-1 and CXCL16 levels in the DMF-treated group were lower than in the control group. In conclusion, DMF may protect islet cells and reduce the incidence of autoimmune diabetes in NOD mice by attenuating insulitis and proinflammatory cytokine production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiri Li
- Department of Surgery, University of California, Irvine, CA 92868, USA; (L.S.); (C.T.); (K.V.); (M.J.S.)
- Correspondence: (S.L.); (H.I.); Tel.: +1-714-456-5160 (S.L.); +1-714-456-8698 (H.I.)
| | | | - Lourdes Swentek
- Department of Surgery, University of California, Irvine, CA 92868, USA; (L.S.); (C.T.); (K.V.); (M.J.S.)
| | - Chie Takasu
- Department of Surgery, University of California, Irvine, CA 92868, USA; (L.S.); (C.T.); (K.V.); (M.J.S.)
| | - Kelly Vo
- Department of Surgery, University of California, Irvine, CA 92868, USA; (L.S.); (C.T.); (K.V.); (M.J.S.)
| | - Michael J. Stamos
- Department of Surgery, University of California, Irvine, CA 92868, USA; (L.S.); (C.T.); (K.V.); (M.J.S.)
| | - Camillo Ricordi
- Cell Transplant Center, Diabetes Research Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
| | - Hirohito Ichii
- Department of Surgery, University of California, Irvine, CA 92868, USA; (L.S.); (C.T.); (K.V.); (M.J.S.)
- Correspondence: (S.L.); (H.I.); Tel.: +1-714-456-5160 (S.L.); +1-714-456-8698 (H.I.)
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14
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Ibarburu S, Kovacs M, Varela V, Rodríguez-Duarte J, Ingold M, Invernizzi P, Porcal W, Arévalo AP, Perelmuter K, Bollati-Fogolín M, Escande C, López GV, King P, Si Y, Kwon Y, Batthyány C, Barbeito L, Trias E. A Nitroalkene Benzoic Acid Derivative Targets Reactive Microglia and Prolongs Survival in an Inherited Model of ALS via NF-κB Inhibition. Neurotherapeutics 2021; 18:309-325. [PMID: 33118131 PMCID: PMC8116482 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-020-00953-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor neuron degeneration and neuroinflammation are the most striking pathological features of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS currently has no cure and approved drugs have only a modest clinically therapeutic effect in patients. Drugs targeting different deleterious inflammatory pathways in ALS appear as promising therapeutic alternatives. Here, we have assessed the potential therapeutic effect of an electrophilic nitroalkene benzoic acid derivative, (E)-4-(2-nitrovinyl) benzoic acid (BANA), to slow down paralysis progression when administered after overt disease onset in SOD1G93A rats. BANA exerted a significant inhibition of NF-κB activation in NF-κB reporter transgenic mice and microglial cell cultures. Systemic daily oral administration of BANA to SOD1G93A rats after paralysis onset significantly decreased microgliosis and astrocytosis, and significantly reduced the number of NF-κB-p65-positive microglial nuclei surrounding spinal motor neurons. Numerous microglia bearing nuclear NF-κB-p65 were observed in the surrounding of motor neurons in autopsy spinal cords from ALS patients but not in controls, suggesting ALS-associated microglia could be targeted by BANA. In addition, BANA-treated SOD1G93A rats after paralysis onset showed significantly ameliorated spinal motor neuron pathology as well as conserved neuromuscular junction innervation in the skeletal muscle, as compared to controls. Notably, BANA prolonged post-paralysis survival by ~30%, compared to vehicle-treated littermates. These data provide a rationale to therapeutically slow paralysis progression in ALS using small electrophilic compounds such as BANA, through a mechanism involving microglial NF-κB inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofía Ibarburu
- Neurodegeneration Laboratory, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Mataojo, 2020, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Mariángeles Kovacs
- Neurodegeneration Laboratory, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Mataojo, 2020, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Valentina Varela
- Neurodegeneration Laboratory, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Mataojo, 2020, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Jorge Rodríguez-Duarte
- Laboratory of Vascular Biology and Drug Development, INDICYO Program, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Mariana Ingold
- Laboratory of Vascular Biology and Drug Development, INDICYO Program, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Departmento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Paulina Invernizzi
- Laboratory of Vascular Biology and Drug Development, INDICYO Program, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Williams Porcal
- Laboratory of Vascular Biology and Drug Development, INDICYO Program, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Departmento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Ana Paula Arévalo
- Transgenic and Experimental Animal Unit, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Karen Perelmuter
- Cell Biology Unit, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | | | - Carlos Escande
- Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases and Aging, INDICyO Program, Institut Pasteur Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Gloria V López
- Laboratory of Vascular Biology and Drug Development, INDICYO Program, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Departmento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Peter King
- Department of Neurology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Ying Si
- Department of Neurology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
- Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Yuri Kwon
- Department of Neurology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Carlos Batthyány
- Laboratory of Vascular Biology and Drug Development, INDICYO Program, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Luis Barbeito
- Neurodegeneration Laboratory, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Mataojo, 2020, Montevideo, Uruguay.
| | - Emiliano Trias
- Neurodegeneration Laboratory, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Mataojo, 2020, Montevideo, Uruguay.
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15
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Kwon HS, Koh SH. Neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative disorders: the roles of microglia and astrocytes. Transl Neurodegener 2020; 9:42. [PMID: 33239064 PMCID: PMC7689983 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-020-00221-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 864] [Impact Index Per Article: 216.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is associated with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Microglia and astrocytes are key regulators of inflammatory responses in the central nervous system. The activation of microglia and astrocytes is heterogeneous and traditionally categorized as neurotoxic (M1-phenotype microglia and A1-phenotype astrocytes) or neuroprotective (M2-phenotype microglia and A2-phenotype astrocytes). However, this dichotomized classification may not reflect the various phenotypes of microglia and astrocytes. The relationship between these activated glial cells is also very complicated, and the phenotypic distribution can change, based on the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. A better understanding of the roles of microglia and astrocytes in neurodegenerative diseases is essential for developing effective therapies. In this review, we discuss the roles of inflammatory response in neurodegenerative diseases, focusing on the contributions of microglia and astrocytes and their relationship. In addition, we discuss biomarkers to measure neuroinflammation and studies on therapeutic drugs that can modulate neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyuk Sung Kwon
- Department of Neurology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Ho Koh
- Department of Neurology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Translational Medicine, Hanyang University Graduate School of Biomedical Science & Engineering, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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16
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Kourakis S, Timpani CA, de Haan JB, Gueven N, Fischer D, Rybalka E. Dimethyl Fumarate and Its Esters: A Drug with Broad Clinical Utility? Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:ph13100306. [PMID: 33066228 PMCID: PMC7602023 DOI: 10.3390/ph13100306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fumaric acid esters (FAEs) are small molecules with anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects. Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is the best characterised FAE and is approved and registered for the treatment of psoriasis and Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS). Psoriasis and RRMS share an immune-mediated aetiology, driven by severe inflammation and oxidative stress. DMF, as well as monomethyl fumarate and diroximel fumarate, are commonly prescribed first-line agents with favourable safety and efficacy profiles. The potential benefits of FAEs against other diseases that appear pathogenically different but share the pathologies of oxidative stress and inflammation are currently investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Kourakis
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 8001, Australia;
| | - Cara A. Timpani
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 8001, Australia;
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science, Victoria University, St Albans, VIC 3021, Australia
| | - Judy B. de Haan
- Oxidative Stress Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Basic Science Domain, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia;
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Nuri Gueven
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005, Australia;
| | - Dirk Fischer
- Division of Developmental- and Neuropediatrics, University Children’s Hospital Basel, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Emma Rybalka
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 8001, Australia;
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science, Victoria University, St Albans, VIC 3021, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-383-958-226
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17
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Kukharsky MS, Skvortsova VI, Bachurin SO, Buchman VL. In a search for efficient treatment for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Old drugs for new approaches. Med Res Rev 2020; 41:2804-2822. [DOI: 10.1002/med.21725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michail S. Kukharsky
- Faculty of Medical Biology Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University Moscow Russian Federation
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds Russian Academy of Sciences Moscow Region Russian Federation
| | - Veronika I. Skvortsova
- Faculty of Medical Biology Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University Moscow Russian Federation
| | - Sergey O. Bachurin
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds Russian Academy of Sciences Moscow Region Russian Federation
| | - Vladimir L. Buchman
- Institute of Physiologically Active Compounds Russian Academy of Sciences Moscow Region Russian Federation
- School of Biosciences Cardiff University Cardiff United Kingdom
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18
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Michalska P, León R. When It Comes to an End: Oxidative Stress Crosstalk with Protein Aggregation and Neuroinflammation Induce Neurodegeneration. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9080740. [PMID: 32806679 PMCID: PMC7463521 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9080740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by a progressive loss of neurons in the brain or spinal cord that leads to a loss of function of the affected areas. The lack of effective treatments and the ever-increasing life expectancy is raising the number of individuals affected, having a tremendous social and economic impact. The brain is particularly vulnerable to oxidative damage given the high energy demand, low levels of antioxidant defenses, and high levels of metal ions. Driven by age-related changes, neurodegeneration is characterized by increased oxidative stress leading to irreversible neuronal damage, followed by cell death. Nevertheless, neurodegenerative diseases are known as complex pathologies where several mechanisms drive neuronal death. Herein we discuss the interplay among oxidative stress, proteinopathy, and neuroinflammation at the early stages of neurodegenerative diseases. Finally, we discuss the use of the Nrf2-ARE pathway as a potential therapeutic strategy based on these molecular mechanisms to develop transformative medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Michalska
- Instituto Teófilo Hernando y Departamento de Farmacología y Terapéutica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria, Servicio de Farmacología Clínica, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, 28006 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (P.M.); (R.L.); Tel.: +34-91-497-27-66 (P.M. & R.L.)
| | - Rafael León
- Instituto Teófilo Hernando y Departamento de Farmacología y Terapéutica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria, Servicio de Farmacología Clínica, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, 28006 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IQM-CSIC), 28006 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (P.M.); (R.L.); Tel.: +34-91-497-27-66 (P.M. & R.L.)
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19
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Rosito M, Testi C, Parisi G, Cortese B, Baiocco P, Di Angelantonio S. Exploring the Use of Dimethyl Fumarate as Microglia Modulator for Neurodegenerative Diseases Treatment. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9080700. [PMID: 32756501 PMCID: PMC7465338 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9080700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The maintenance of redox homeostasis in the brain is critical for the prevention of the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Drugs acting on brain redox balance can be promising for the treatment of neurodegeneration. For more than four decades, dimethyl fumarate (DMF) and other derivatives of fumaric acid ester compounds have been shown to mitigate a number of pathological mechanisms associated with psoriasis and relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Recently, DMF has been shown to exert a neuroprotective effect on the central nervous system (CNS), possibly through the modulation of microglia detrimental actions, observed also in multiple brain injuries. In addition to the hypothesis that DMF is linked to the activation of NRF2 and NF-kB transcription factors, the neuroprotective action of DMF may be mediated by the activation of the glutathione (GSH) antioxidant pathway and the regulation of brain iron homeostasis. This review will focus on the role of DMF as an antioxidant modulator in microglia processes and on its mechanisms of action in the modulation of different pathways to attenuate neurodegenerative disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rosito
- Center for Life Nanoscience, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.R.); (C.T.); (G.P.)
| | - Claudia Testi
- Center for Life Nanoscience, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.R.); (C.T.); (G.P.)
| | - Giacomo Parisi
- Center for Life Nanoscience, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.R.); (C.T.); (G.P.)
| | - Barbara Cortese
- Nanotechnology Institute, CNR-Nanotechnology Institute, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Paola Baiocco
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi Fanelli” Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (P.B.); (S.D.A.)
| | - Silvia Di Angelantonio
- Center for Life Nanoscience, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.R.); (C.T.); (G.P.)
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (P.B.); (S.D.A.)
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20
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Scuderi SA, Ardizzone A, Paterniti I, Esposito E, Campolo M. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effect of Nrf2 Inducer Dimethyl Fumarate in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9070630. [PMID: 32708926 PMCID: PMC7402174 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9070630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) represents debilitating conditions characterized by degeneration of neuronal cells in specific brain areas, causing disability and death in patients. In the pathophysiology of NDs, oxidative stress, apoptosis and neuroinflammation have a key role, as demonstrated by in vivo and in vitro models. Therefore, the use of molecules with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities represents a possible strategy for the treatment of NDs. Many studies demonstrated the beneficial effects of fumaric acid esters (FAEs) to counteract neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Among these molecules, dimethyl fumarate (DMF) showed a valid therapeutic approach to slow down neurodegeneration and relieve symptoms in patients with NDs. DMF is a methyl ester of fumaric acid and acts as modulator of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway as well as nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) translocation. Therefore, this review aims to examine the potential beneficial effects of DMF to counteract oxidative stress and inflammation in patients with NDs.
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21
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Giovannelli I, Heath P, Shaw PJ, Kirby J. The involvement of regulatory T cells in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and their therapeutic potential. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2020; 21:435-444. [PMID: 32484719 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2020.1752246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation, meaning the establishment of a diffuse inflammatory condition in the CNS, is one of the main hallmarks of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Recently, a crucial role of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in this disease has been outlined. Tregs are a T cell subpopulation with immunomodulatory properties. In this review, we discuss the physiology of Tregs and their role in ALS disease onset and progression. Evidence has demonstrated that in ALS patients Tregs are dramatically and progressively reduced in number and are less effective in promoting immune suppression. In addition, Tregs levels correlate with the rate of disease progression and patient survival. For this reason, Tregs are now considered a promising therapeutic target for neuroprotection in ALS. In this review, the clinical impact of these cells will be discussed and an overview of the current clinical trials targeting Tregs is also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Giovannelli
- Sheffield Institute of Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - P Heath
- Sheffield Institute of Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - P J Shaw
- Sheffield Institute of Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - J Kirby
- Sheffield Institute of Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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22
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Mijanović O, Branković A, Borovjagin AV, Butnaru DV, Bezrukov EA, Sukhanov RB, Shpichka A, Timashev P, Ulasov I. Battling Neurodegenerative Diseases with Adeno-Associated Virus-Based Approaches. Viruses 2020; 12:v12040460. [PMID: 32325732 PMCID: PMC7232215 DOI: 10.3390/v12040460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are most commonly found in adults and remain essentially incurable. Gene therapy using AAV vectors is a rapidly-growing field of experimental medicine that holds promise for the treatment of NDDs. To date, effective delivery of a therapeutic gene into target cells via AAV has been a major obstacle in the field. Ideally, transgenes should be delivered into the target cells specifically and efficiently, while promiscuous or off-target gene delivery should be minimized to avoid toxicity. In the pursuit of an ideal vehicle for NDD gene therapy, a broad variety of vector systems have been explored. Here we specifically outline the advantages of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based vector systems for NDD therapy application. In contrast to many reviews on NDDs that can be found in the literature, this review is rather focused on AAV vector selection and their testing in experimental and preclinical NDD models. Preclinical and in vitro data reveal the strong potential of AAV for NDD-related diagnostics and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olja Mijanović
- Group of Experimental Biotherapy and Diagnostics, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia;
| | - Ana Branković
- Department of Forensics, University of Criminal Investigation and Police Studies, Belgrade 11000, Serbia;
| | - Anton V. Borovjagin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
| | - Denis V. Butnaru
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (D.V.B.); (A.S.); (P.T.)
| | - Evgeny A. Bezrukov
- Institute for Uronephrology and Reproductive Health, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (E.A.B.); (R.B.S.)
| | - Roman B. Sukhanov
- Institute for Uronephrology and Reproductive Health, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (E.A.B.); (R.B.S.)
| | - Anastasia Shpichka
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (D.V.B.); (A.S.); (P.T.)
| | - Peter Timashev
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (D.V.B.); (A.S.); (P.T.)
- Institute of Photonic Technologies, Research Center “Crystallography and Photonics”, Russian Academy of Sciences, Troitsk, Moscow 142190, Russia
- Department of Polymers and Composites, N.N. Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics, Moscow 119991, Russia
- Chemistry Department, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Ilya Ulasov
- Group of Experimental Biotherapy and Diagnostics, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia;
- Correspondence:
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23
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Wang G, Rayner S, Chung R, Shi B, Liang X. Advances in nanotechnology-based strategies for the treatments of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Mater Today Bio 2020; 6:100055. [PMID: 32529183 PMCID: PMC7280770 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2020.100055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as motor neuron disease (MND), is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects both upper and lower motor neurons, which results in loss of muscle control and eventual paralysis [1]. Currently, there are as yet unresolved challenges regarding efficient drug delivery into the central nervous system (CNS). These challenges can be attributed to multiple factors including the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB), as well as the inherent characteristics of the drugs themselves (e.g. low solubility, insufficient bioavailability/bio-stability, 'off-target' effects) etc. As a result, conventional drug delivery systems may not facilitate adequate dosage of the required drugs for functional recovery in ALS patients. Nanotechnology-based strategies, however, employ engineered nanostructures that show great potential in delivering single or combined therapeutic agents to overcome the biological barriers, enhance interaction with targeted sites, improve drug bioavailability/bio-stability and achieve real-time tracking while minimizing the systemic side-effects. This review provides a concise discussion of recent advances in nanotechnology-based strategies in relation to combating specific pathophysiology relevant to ALS disease progression and investigates the future scope of using nanotechnology to develop innovative treatments for ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- G.Y. Wang
- Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - S.L. Rayner
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - R. Chung
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - B.Y. Shi
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
- Henan-Macquarie University Joint Centre for Biomedical Innovation, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - X.J. Liang
- Key Laboratory for Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
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