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Kim SY, Rasmussen U, Rydberg S. Impact of the neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine on the diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana using metabolomics. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 202:116299. [PMID: 38581736 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
The neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) has emerged as an environmental factor related to neurodegenerative diseases. BMAA is produced by various microorganisms including cyanobacteria and diatoms, in diverse ecosystems. In the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum, BMAA is known to inhibit growth. The present study investigated the impact of BMAA on the diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana by exposing it to different concentrations of exogenous BMAA. Metabolomics was predominantly employed to investigate the effect of BMAA on T. pseudonana, and MetaboAnalyst (https://www.metabo-analyst.ca/) was used to identify BMAA-associated metabolisms/pathways in T. pseudonana. Furthermore, to explore the unique response, specific metabolites were compared between treatments. When the growth was obstructed by BMAA, 17 metabolisms/pathways including nitrogen and glutathione (i.e. oxidative stress) metabolisms, were influenced in T. pseudonana. This study has further determined that 11 out of 17 metabolisms/pathways could be essentially affected by BMAA, leading to the inhibition of diatom growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sea-Yong Kim
- Department of Ocean Environmental Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Ulla Rasmussen
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, SE 10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sara Rydberg
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, SE 10691 Stockholm, Sweden.
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2
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Santiago-Maldonado X, Rodríguez-Martínez JA, López L, Cunci L, Bayro M, Nicolau E. Selection, characterization, and biosensing applications of DNA aptamers targeting cyanotoxin BMAA. RSC Adv 2024; 14:13787-13800. [PMID: 38681844 PMCID: PMC11046380 DOI: 10.1039/d4ra02384f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Scientists have established a connection between environmental exposure to toxins like β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) and a heightened risk of neurodegenerative disorders. BMAA is a byproduct from certain strains of cyanobacteria that are present in ecosystems worldwide and is renowned for its bioaccumulation and biomagnification in seafood. The sensitivity, selectivity, and reproducibility of the current analytical techniques are insufficient to support efforts regarding food safety and environment monitoring adequately. This work outlines the in vitro selection of BMAA-specific DNA aptamers via the systematic evolution of ligands through exponential enrichment (SELEX). Screening and characterization of the full-length aptamers was achieved using the SYBR Green (SG) fluorescence displacement assay. Aptamers BMAA_159 and BMAA_165 showed the highest binding affinities, with dissociation constants (Kd) of 2.2 ± 0.1 μM and 0.32 ± 0.02 μM, respectively. After truncation, the binding affinity was confirmed using a BMAA-conjugated fluorescence assay. The Kd values for BMAA_159_min and BMAA_165_min were 6 ± 1 μM and 0.63 ± 0.02 μM, respectively. Alterations in the amino proton region studied using solution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) provided further evidence of aptamer-target binding. Additionally, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy revealed that BMAA_165_min forms hybrid G-quadruplex (G4) structures. Finally, BMAA_165_min was used in the development of an electrochemical aptamer-based (EAB) sensor that accomplished sensitive and selective detection of BMAA with a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.13 ± 0.02 pM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xaimara Santiago-Maldonado
- Department of Chemistry, University of Puerto Rico San Juan PR 00925-2437 USA +1-787-522-2150 +1-787-292-9820
| | | | - Luis López
- Department of Chemistry, University of Puerto Rico San Juan PR 00925-2437 USA +1-787-522-2150 +1-787-292-9820
| | - Lisandro Cunci
- Department of Chemistry, University of Puerto Rico San Juan PR 00925-2437 USA +1-787-522-2150 +1-787-292-9820
| | - Marvin Bayro
- Department of Chemistry, University of Puerto Rico San Juan PR 00925-2437 USA +1-787-522-2150 +1-787-292-9820
- Molecular Science Research Center, University of Puerto Rico San Juan 00931-3346 USA
| | - Eduardo Nicolau
- Department of Chemistry, University of Puerto Rico San Juan PR 00925-2437 USA +1-787-522-2150 +1-787-292-9820
- Molecular Science Research Center, University of Puerto Rico San Juan 00931-3346 USA
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3
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Sandhu PK, Solonenka JT, Murch SJ. Neurotoxic non-protein amino acids in commercially harvested Lobsters (Homarus americanus H. Milne-Edwards). Sci Rep 2024; 14:8017. [PMID: 38580836 PMCID: PMC10997655 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58778-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Cyanobacteria produce neurotoxic non-protein amino acids (NPAAs) that accumulate in ecosystems and food webs. American lobsters (Homarus americanus H. Milne-Edwards) are one of the most valuable seafood industries in Canada with exports valued at > $2 billion. Two previous studies have assessed the occurrence of β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) in a small number of lobster tissues but a complete study has not previously been undertaken. We measured NPAAs in eyeballs, brain, legs, claws, tails, and eggs of 4 lobsters per year for the 2021 and 2022 harvests. Our study included 4 male and 4 female lobsters. We detected BMAA and its isomers, N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine (AEG), 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB) and β-aminomethyl-L-alanine (BAMA) by a fully validated reverse phase chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method. We quantified BMAA, DAB, AEG and BAMA in all of the lobster tissues. Our quantification data varied by individual lobster, sex and collection year. Significantly more BMAA was quantified in lobsters harvested in 2021 than 2022. Interestingly, more BAMA was quantified in lobsters harvested in 2022 than 2021. Monitoring of lobster harvests for cyanobacterial neurotoxins when harmful algal bloom events occur could mitigate risks to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawanjit K Sandhu
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Julia T Solonenka
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Susan J Murch
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada.
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4
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Sini P, Galleri G, Ciampelli C, Galioto M, Padedda BM, Lugliè A, Iaccarino C, Crosio C. Evaluation of cyanotoxin L-BMAA effect on α-synuclein and TDP43 proteinopathy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1360068. [PMID: 38596666 PMCID: PMC11002123 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1360068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors is considered the cause of neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson's disease (PD) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Among the environmental factors, toxins produced by cyanobacteria have received much attention due to the significant increase in cyanobacteria growth worldwide. In particular, L-BMAA toxin, produced by diverse taxa of cyanobacteria, dinoflagellates and diatoms, has been extensively correlated to neurodegeneration. The molecular mechanism of L-BMAA neurotoxicity is still cryptic and far from being understood. In this research article, we have investigated the molecular pathways altered by L-BMAA exposure in cell systems, highlighting a significant increase in specific stress pathways and an impairment in autophagic processes. Interestingly, these changes lead to the accumulation of both α-synuclein and TDP43, which are correlated with PD and ALS proteinopathy, respectively. Finally, we were able to demonstrate specific alterations of TDP43 WT or pathological mutants with respect to protein accumulation, aggregation and cytoplasmic translocation, some of the typical features of both sporadic and familial ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Sini
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Grazia Galleri
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Cristina Ciampelli
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Manuela Galioto
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Bachisio Mario Padedda
- Laboratory of Ecology, Department of Architecture, Design and Urban Planning, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonella Lugliè
- Laboratory of Ecology, Department of Architecture, Design and Urban Planning, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Ciro Iaccarino
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Claudia Crosio
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
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5
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Lee A, Henderson R, Aylward J, McCombe P. Gut Symptoms, Gut Dysbiosis and Gut-Derived Toxins in ALS. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1871. [PMID: 38339149 PMCID: PMC10856138 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031871] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Many pathogenetic mechanisms have been proposed for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Recently, there have been emerging suggestions of a possible role for the gut microbiota. Gut microbiota have a range of functions and could influence ALS by several mechanisms. Here, we review the possible role of gut-derived neurotoxins/excitotoxins. We review the evidence of gut symptoms and gut dysbiosis in ALS. We then examine a possible role for gut-derived toxins by reviewing the evidence that these molecules are toxic to the central nervous system, evidence of their association with ALS, the existence of biochemical pathways by which these molecules could be produced by the gut microbiota and existence of mechanisms of transport from the gut to the blood and brain. We then present evidence that there are increased levels of these toxins in the blood of some ALS patients. We review the effects of therapies that attempt to alter the gut microbiota or ameliorate the biochemical effects of gut toxins. It is possible that gut dysbiosis contributes to elevated levels of toxins and that these could potentially contribute to ALS pathogenesis, but more work is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aven Lee
- Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia; (R.H.); (P.M.)
| | - Robert Henderson
- Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia; (R.H.); (P.M.)
- Department of Neurology, Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia
- Wesley Research Institute, The Wesley Hospital, Auchenflower, QLD 4066, Australia;
| | - James Aylward
- Wesley Research Institute, The Wesley Hospital, Auchenflower, QLD 4066, Australia;
| | - Pamela McCombe
- Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia; (R.H.); (P.M.)
- Department of Neurology, Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia
- Wesley Research Institute, The Wesley Hospital, Auchenflower, QLD 4066, Australia;
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Garamszegi SP, Brzostowicki DJ, Coyne TM, Vontell RT, Davis DA. TDP-43 and Alzheimer's Disease Pathology in the Brain of a Harbor Porpoise Exposed to the Cyanobacterial Toxin BMAA. Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:42. [PMID: 38251257 PMCID: PMC10821503 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16010042] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Cetaceans are well-regarded as sentinels for toxin exposure. Emerging studies suggest that cetaceans can also develop neuropathological changes associated with neurodegenerative disease. The occurrence of neuropathology makes cetaceans an ideal species for examining the impact of marine toxins on the brain across the lifespan. Here, we describe TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) proteinopathy and Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuropathological changes in a beached harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) that was exposed to a toxin produced by cyanobacteria called β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA). We found pathogenic TDP-43 cytoplasmic inclusions in neurons throughout the cerebral cortex, midbrain and brainstem. P62/sequestosome-1, responsible for the autophagy of misfolded proteins, was observed in the amygdala, hippocampus and frontal cortex. Genes implicated in AD and TDP-43 neuropathology such as APP and TARDBP were expressed in the brain. AD neuropathological changes such as amyloid-β plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, granulovacuolar degeneration and Hirano bodies were present in the hippocampus. These findings further support the development of progressive neurodegenerative disease in cetaceans and a potential causative link to cyanobacterial toxins. Climate change, nutrient pollution and industrial waste are increasing the frequency of harmful cyanobacterial blooms. Cyanotoxins like BMAA that are associated with neurodegenerative disease pose an increasing public health risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna P. Garamszegi
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Daniel J. Brzostowicki
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Thomas M. Coyne
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Regina T. Vontell
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - David A. Davis
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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7
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Lamka GF, Auxier AN, Swank A, Esarey K, Mullinax HR, Seymour RD, Ward JL. Effects of developmental exposure to neurotoxic algal metabolites on predator-prey interactions in larval Pimephales promelas. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 879:163148. [PMID: 36996974 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Harmful algal blooms are a growing environmental concern in aquatic systems. Although it is known that some of the secondary metabolites produced by cyanobacteria can alter predator-prey dynamics in aquatic communities by reducing foraging and/or predator evasion success, the mechanisms underpinning such responses are largely unknown. In this study, we examined the effects of a potent algal neurotoxin, β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), on the development and behavior of larval Fathead Minnows, Pimephales promelas, during predator-prey interactions. We exposed eggs and larvae to environmentally relevant concentrations of BMAA for 21 days, then tested subjects in prey-capture and predator-evasion assays designed to isolate the effects of exposure at sequential points of the stimulus-response pathway. Exposure was associated with changes in the ability of larvae to detect and respond to environmental stimuli (i.e., a live prey item and a simulated vibrational predator), as well as changes in behavior and locomotor performance during the response. Our findings suggest that chronic exposure to neurodegenerative cyanotoxins could alter the outcomes of predator-prey interactions in natural systems by impairing an animal's ability to perceive, process, and respond to relevant biotic stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina F Lamka
- Department of Biology, Ball State University, 1600 Ashland Ave, Muncie, IN 47306, USA.
| | - Autum N Auxier
- Department of Biology, Ball State University, 1600 Ashland Ave, Muncie, IN 47306, USA.
| | - Ally Swank
- Department of Biology, Ball State University, 1600 Ashland Ave, Muncie, IN 47306, USA.
| | - Katie Esarey
- Department of Biology, Ball State University, 1600 Ashland Ave, Muncie, IN 47306, USA
| | - Hannah R Mullinax
- Department of Biology, Ball State University, 1600 Ashland Ave, Muncie, IN 47306, USA.
| | - Ryan D Seymour
- Department of Biology, Ball State University, 1600 Ashland Ave, Muncie, IN 47306, USA.
| | - Jessica L Ward
- Department of Biology, Ball State University, 1600 Ashland Ave, Muncie, IN 47306, USA.
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8
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Oummadi A, Menuet A, Méresse S, Laugeray A, Guillemin G, Mortaud S. The herbicides glyphosate and glufosinate and the cyanotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine induce long-term motor disorders following postnatal exposure: the importance of prior asymptomatic maternal inflammatory sensitization. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1172693. [PMID: 37360165 PMCID: PMC10288190 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1172693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Prenatal maternal immune activation (MIA) and/or perinatal exposure to various xenobiotics have been identified as risk factors for neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases. Epidemiological data suggest an association between early multi-exposures to various insults and neuropathologies. The "multiple-hit hypothesis" assumes that prenatal inflammation makes the brain more susceptible to subsequent exposure to several kinds of neurotoxins. To explore this hypothesis and its pathological consequences, a behavioral longitudinal procedure was performed after prenatal sensitization and postnatal exposure to low doses of pollutants. Methods Maternal exposure to an acute immune challenge (first hit) was induced by an asymptomatic lipopolysaccharide (LPS) dose (0.008 mg/kg) in mice. This sensitization was followed by exposing the offspring to environmental chemicals (second hit) postnatally, by the oral route. The chemicals used were low doses of the cyanotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA; 50 mg/kg), the herbicide glufosinate ammonium (GLA; 0.2 mg/kg) or the pesticide glyphosate (GLY; 5 mg/kg). After assessing maternal parameters, a longitudinal behavioral assessment was carried out on the offspring in order to evaluate motor and emotional abilities in adolescence and adulthood. Results We showed that the low LPS immune challenge was an asymptomatic MIA. Even though a significant increase in systemic pro-inflammatory cytokines was detected in the dams, no maternal behavioral defects were observed. In addition, as shown by rotarod assays and open field tests, this prenatal LPS administration alone did not show any behavioral disruption in offspring. Interestingly, our data showed that offspring subjected to both MIA and post-natal BMAA or GLA exposure displayed motor and anxiety behavioral impairments during adolescence and adulthood. However, this synergistic effect was not observed in the GLY-exposed offspring. Conclusion These data demonstrated that prenatal and asymptomatic immune sensitization represents a priming effect to subsequent exposure to low doses of pollutants. These double hits act in synergy to induce motor neuron disease-related phenotypes in offspring. Thus, our data strongly emphasize that multiple exposures for developmental neurotoxicity regulatory assessment must be considered. This work paves the way for future studies aiming at deciphering cellular pathways involved in these sensitization processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Oummadi
- Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics, UMR7355 CNRS, Orléans, France
- Faculty of Medicine and Human Health Sciences, Center for MND Research, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Arnaud Menuet
- Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics, UMR7355 CNRS, Orléans, France
- UFR Sciences et Techniques, University of Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - Sarah Méresse
- Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics, UMR7355 CNRS, Orléans, France
- UFR Sciences et Techniques, University of Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - Anthony Laugeray
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gilles Guillemin
- Faculty of Medicine and Human Health Sciences, Center for MND Research, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Stéphane Mortaud
- Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics, UMR7355 CNRS, Orléans, France
- UFR Sciences et Techniques, University of Orléans, Orléans, France
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Li A, Liu J, Qiu J, Wang G, Zheng X, Ji Y, Yan G, Zhao P, Wu X, Yan W, Zhang L, Li M, Fu Y. Cell cycle of microalga Isochrysis galbana arrested by neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine and corresponding molecular mechanisms. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 874:162445. [PMID: 36848993 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The phycotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) has attracted attention due to its risks to marine organisms and human health. In this study, approximately 85 % of synchronized cells of the marine microalga Isochrysis galbana were arrested at the cell cycle G1 phase by BMAA at 6.5 μM for a 24-h exposure. The concentration of chlorophyll a (Chl a) gradually decreased, while the maximum quantum yield of PSII (Fv/Fm), the maximum relative electron transport rate (rETRmax), light utilization efficiency (α) and half-saturated light irradiance (Ik) reduced early and recovered gradually in I. galbana exposed to BMAA in 96-h batch cultures. Transcriptional expression of I. galbana analyzed at 10, 12, and 16 h disclosed multiple mechanisms of BMAA to suppress the microalgal growth. Production of ammonia and glutamate was limited by the down-regulation of nitrate transporters, glutamate synthase, glutamine synthetase, cyanate hydrolase, and formamidase. Diverse extrinsic proteins related to PSII, PSI, cytochrome b6f complex, and ATPase were influenced by BMAA at transcriptional level. Suppression of the DNA replication and mismatch repair pathways increased the accumulation of misfolded proteins, which was reflected by the up-regulated expression of proteasome to accelerate proteolysis. This study improves our understanding of the chemical ecology impacts of BMAA in marine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aifeng Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China.
| | - Jianwei Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Jiangbing Qiu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Guixiang Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Xianyao Zheng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Ying Ji
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Guowang Yan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Peng Zhao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Xizhen Wu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Wenhui Yan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Min Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Yilei Fu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
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10
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Stipa G, Ancidoni A, Vanacore N, Bellomo G. Raw Water and ALS: A Unifying Hypothesis for the Environmental Agents Involved in ALS. Ann Neurosci 2023; 30:124-132. [PMID: 37706096 PMCID: PMC10496797 DOI: 10.1177/09727531221120358] [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: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Different studies identified the presence of several altered genes in familial and sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) forms. The experimental data, together with the epidemiological data, would seem to suggest the existence of molecular mechanisms (e.g., axonal transport) related to these genes, together with a susceptibility of the same genes to certain environmental factors that would therefore suggest an impact of the environment on the etiopathogenesis of ALS. In our review, we considered the most relevant environmental clusters around the world, collecting different hypotheses and underlining common environmental factors among the different clusters. Moreover, further epidemiological data identified a higher risk of ALS in professional athletes and, in particular, in soccer and football players. Despite this increased risk of ALS highlighted by the epidemiological evidence in aforementioned sports, the mechanisms remain unclear. At last, the use of raw water has been associated with ALS risk. The aim of the present review is to characterize a possible relationship between these clusters, to be explored in the context of the interaction between genetic and environmental factors on the etiopathogenesis of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Stipa
- Clinical Neurophysiology Division, Neuroscience Department, S. Maria University Hospital, Terni, Italy
| | - Antonio Ancidoni
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Health (ISS), Roma, Italy
| | - Nicola Vanacore
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Health (ISS), Roma, Italy
| | - Guido Bellomo
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Health (ISS), Roma, Italy
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11
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Burton B, Collins K, Brooks J, Marx K, Renner A, Wilcox K, Moore E, Osowski K, Riley J, Rowe J, Pawlus M. The biotoxin BMAA promotes dysfunction via distinct mechanisms in neuroblastoma and glioblastoma cells. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0278793. [PMID: 36893156 PMCID: PMC9997973 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic exposure to the Cyanobacteria biotoxin Beta-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) has been associated with development of a sporadic form of ALS called Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/Parkinsonism-Dementia Complex (ALS/PDC), as observed within certain Indigenous populations of Guam and Japan. Studies in primate models and cell culture have supported the association of BMAA with ALS/PDC, yet the pathological mechanisms at play remain incompletely characterized, effectively stalling the development of rationally-designed therapeutics or application of preventative measures for this disease. In this study we demonstrate for the first time that sub-excitotoxic doses of BMAA modulate the canonical Wnt signaling pathway to drive cellular defects in human neuroblastoma cells, suggesting a potential mechanism by which BMAA may promote neurological disease. Further, we demonstrate here that the effects of BMAA can be reversed in cell culture by use of pharmacological modulators of the Wnt pathway, revealing the potential value of targeting this pathway therapeutically. Interestingly, our results suggest the existence of a distinct Wnt-independent mechanism activated by BMAA in glioblastoma cells, highlighting the likelihood that neurological disease may result from the cumulative effects of distinct cell-type specific mechanisms of BMAA toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan Burton
- Department of Natural Sciences, Black Hills State University, Spearfish, South Dakota, United States of America
| | - Kate Collins
- Department of Natural Sciences, Black Hills State University, Spearfish, South Dakota, United States of America
| | - Jordan Brooks
- Department of Natural Sciences, Black Hills State University, Spearfish, South Dakota, United States of America
| | - Karly Marx
- Department of Natural Sciences, Black Hills State University, Spearfish, South Dakota, United States of America
| | - Abigail Renner
- Department of Natural Sciences, Black Hills State University, Spearfish, South Dakota, United States of America
| | - Kaylei Wilcox
- Department of Natural Sciences, Black Hills State University, Spearfish, South Dakota, United States of America
| | - Ellie Moore
- Department of Natural Sciences, Black Hills State University, Spearfish, South Dakota, United States of America
| | - Keith Osowski
- Department of Natural Sciences, Black Hills State University, Spearfish, South Dakota, United States of America
| | - Jordan Riley
- Department of Biology, University of Sioux Falls, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, United States of America
| | - Jarron Rowe
- Department of Natural Sciences, Black Hills State University, Spearfish, South Dakota, United States of America
| | - Matthew Pawlus
- Department of Natural Sciences, Black Hills State University, Spearfish, South Dakota, United States of America
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12
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β-N-Methylamino-L-Alanine (BMAA) Modulates the Sympathetic Regulation and Homeostasis of Polyamines. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15020141. [PMID: 36828455 PMCID: PMC9960692 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15020141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) is a non-proteinogenic amino acid produced by cyanobacteria. Non-neuronal toxicity of BMAA is poorly studied with a reported increase in reactive oxygen species and a decrease in the antioxidant capacity of liver, kidney, and colorectal adenocarcinoma cells. The aim of this research is to study the toxicity of BMAA (0.1-1 mM) on mitochondria and submitochondrial particles with ATPase activity, on the semicarbazide-sensitive amino oxidases (SSAOs) activity of rat liver, and on an in vitro model containing functionally active excitable tissues-regularly contracting heart muscle preparation with a preserved autonomic innervation. For the first time the BMAA-dependent inhibition of SSAO activity, the elimination of the positive inotropic effect of adrenergic innervation, and the direct and reversible inhibition of adrenaline signaling in ventricular myocytes with 1 mM BMAA were observed. Additionally, it is confirmed that 1 mM BMAA can activate mitochondrial ATPase indirectly. It is concluded that a higher dose of BMAA may influence multiple physiological and pathological processes as it slows down the degradation of biogenic amines, downregulates the sympathetic neuromediation, and embarrasses the cell signaling of adrenergic receptors.
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13
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Kennedy C, van Onselen R, Downing TG. β-N-methylamino-l-alanine is a non-competitive inhibitor of vesicular monoamine transporter 2. Toxicon 2023; 222:106978. [PMID: 36410456 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.106978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The neurotoxic, non-proteinogenic amino acid β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) has been implicated in the development of neurodegenerative diseases; however, the mechanism(s) and mode(s) of toxicity remain unclear. Similarities in the neuropathology and behavioural deficits of neonatal rats exposed to either BMAA or reserpine, a known vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) inhibitor, suggest a similar mode of action. The aims of this study were therefore to determine if BMAA could prevent the uptake of serotonin into dense granules via inhibition of VMAT2, and, if so, the type of inhibition caused by BMAA. Exposing platelet dense granules to BMAA resulted in a concentration-dependent reduction in serotonin uptake. The inhibition of VMAT2 was non-competitive. The findings from this study support previous reports that BMAA-associated neuropathologies in a neonatal rat model may be due to VMAT2 inhibition during critical periods of neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanté Kennedy
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Nelson Mandela University, P.O. Box 77000, Port Elizabeth, 6021, South Africa.
| | - Rianita van Onselen
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Nelson Mandela University, P.O. Box 77000, Port Elizabeth, 6021, South Africa; Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Tim G Downing
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Nelson Mandela University, P.O. Box 77000, Port Elizabeth, 6021, South Africa.
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14
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Garamszegi SP, Banack SA, Duque LL, Metcalf JS, Stommel EW, Cox PA, Davis DA. Detection of β-N-methylamino-l-alanine in postmortem olfactory bulbs of Alzheimer's disease patients using UHPLC-MS/MS: An autopsy case-series study. Toxicol Rep 2023; 10:87-96. [PMID: 36691605 PMCID: PMC9860447 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2023.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cyanobacterial blooms produce toxins that may become aerosolized, increasing health risks through inhalation exposures. Health related effects on the lower respiratory tract caused by these toxins are becoming better understood. However, nasal exposures to cyanotoxins remain understudied, especially for those with neurotoxic potential. Here, we present a case series study evaluating exposure to β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA), a cyanobacterial toxin linked to neurodegenerative disease, in postmortem olfactory tissues of individuals with varying stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods Olfactory bulb (Ob) tissues were collected during autopsies performed between 2014 and 2017 from six South Florida brain donors (ages 47-78) with residences less than 140 m from a freshwater body. A triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method validated according to peer AOAC International guidelines was used to detect BMAA and two BMAA isomers: 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DAB) and N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine (AEG). Quantitative PCR was performed on the contralateral Ob to evaluate the relative expression of genes related to proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6 & IL-18), apoptotic pathways (CASP1 & BCL2), and mitochondrial stress (IRF1 & PINK1). Immunohistochemistry was also performed on the adjacent olfactory tract (Ot) to evaluate co-occurring neuropathology with BMAA tissue concentration. Results BMAA was detected in the Ob of all cases at a median concentration of 30.4 ng/g (Range <LLOQ - 488.4 ng/g). Structural isomers were also detected with median concentrations of 28.8 ng/g (AEG) and 103.6 ng/g (2,4-DAB). In addition, we found that cases with BMAA tissue concentrations above the <LLOQ also displayed increased expression of IL-6 (3.3-fold), CASP1 (1.7-fold), and IRF1 (1.6-fold). Reactive microglial, astrogliosis, myelinopathy, and neuronopathy of axonal processes in the Ot were also observed in cases with higher BMAA tissue concentrations. Conclusion Our study demonstrates that the cyanobacterial toxin BMAA can be detected in the olfactory pathway, a window to the brain, and its presence may increase the occurrence of proinflammatory cytokines, reactive glia, and toxicity to axonal processes. Further studies will be needed to evaluate BMAA's toxicity via this route of exposure and factors that increase susceptibility.
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Key Words
- 2,4-DAB, 2,4-diaminobutyric acid
- AD, Alzheimer's disease
- AEG, N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine
- ALS/PDC, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/ parkinsonism dementia complex
- BMAA, β-N-methylamino-l-alanine
- CBs, Cyanobacterial blooms
- Cyanobacteria
- Cyanotoxin
- IL-6
- Inflammation
- OD, Olfactory dysfunction
- Ob, Olfactory bulb
- Olfactory dysfunction
- Ot, Olfactory tract
- UHPLC-MS/MS, Ultra-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna P. Garamszegi
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Sandra Anne Banack
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY 83001, USA
| | - Linda L. Duque
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - James S. Metcalf
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY 83001, USA
| | - Elijah W. Stommel
- Department of Neurology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center Department of Neurology, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Paul Alan Cox
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY 83001, USA
| | - David A. Davis
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Corresponding author.
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15
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Environmental Neurotoxin β- N-Methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) as a Widely Occurring Putative Pathogenic Factor in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122418. [PMID: 36557671 PMCID: PMC9781992 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present review we have discussed the occurrence of β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and its natural isomers, and the organisms and sample types in which the toxin(s) have been detected. Further, the review discusses general pathogenic mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, and how modes of action of BMAA fit in those mechanisms. The biogeography of BMAA occurrence presented here contributes to the planning of epidemiological research based on the geographical distribution of BMAA and human exposure. Analysis of BMAA mechanisms in relation to pathogenic processes of neurodegeneration is used to critically assess the potential significance of the amino acid as well as to identify gaps in our understanding. Taken together, these two approaches provide the basis for the discussion on the potential role of BMAA as a secondary factor in neurodegenerative diseases, the rationale for further research and possible directions the research can take, which are outlined in the conclusions.
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16
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Mazumder S, Kiernan MC, Halliday GM, Timmins HC, Mahoney CJ. The contribution of brain banks to knowledge discovery in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A systematic review. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2022; 48:e12845. [PMID: 35921237 PMCID: PMC9804699 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Over the past decade, considerable efforts have been made to accelerate pathophysiological understanding of fatal neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) with brain banks at the forefront. In addition to exploratory disease mechanisms, brain banks have aided our understanding with regard to clinical diagnosis, genetics and cell biology. Across neurodegenerative disorders, the impact of brain tissue in ALS research has yet to be quantified. This review aims to outline (i) how postmortem tissues from brain banks have influenced our understanding of ALS over the last 15 years, (ii) correlate the location of dedicated brain banks with the geographical prevalence of ALS, (iii) identify the frequency of features reported from postmortem studies and (iv) propose common reporting standards for materials obtained from dedicated brain banks. A systematic review was conducted using PubMed and Web of Science databases using key words. From a total of 1439 articles, 73 articles were included in the final review, following PRISMA guidelines. Following a thematic analysis, articles were categorised into five themes; clinico-pathological (13), genetic (20), transactive response DNA binding protein 43 (TDP-43) pathology (12), non-TDP-43 neuronal pathology (nine) and extraneuronal pathology (19). Research primarily focused on the genetics of ALS, followed by protein pathology. About 63% of the brain banks were in the United States of America and United Kingdom. The location of brain banks overall aligned with the incidence of ALS worldwide with 88% of brain banks situated in Europe and North America. An overwhelming lack of consistency in reporting and replicability was observed, strengthening the need for a standardised reporting system. Overall, postmortem material from brain banks generated substantial new knowledge in areas of genetics and proteomics and supports their ongoing role as an important research tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srestha Mazumder
- ForeFront Clinic, Brain and Mind CentreUniversity of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Matthew C. Kiernan
- ForeFront Clinic, Brain and Mind CentreUniversity of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Glenda M. Halliday
- Frontier, Brain and Mind CentreUniversity of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Hannah C. Timmins
- ForeFront Clinic, Brain and Mind CentreUniversity of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Colin J. Mahoney
- ForeFront Clinic, Brain and Mind CentreUniversity of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
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17
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Méresse S, Larrigaldie V, Oummadi A, de Concini V, Morisset-Lopez S, Reverchon F, Menuet A, Montécot-Dubourg C, Mortaud S. β-N-Methyl-Amino-L-Alanine cyanotoxin promotes modification of undifferentiated cells population and disrupts the inflammatory status in primary cultures of neural stem cells. Toxicology 2022; 482:153358. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2022.153358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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18
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Lee S, Choi B, Kim SJ, Kim J, Kang D, Lee J. Relationship between freshwater harmful algal blooms and neurodegenerative disease incidence rates in South Korea. Environ Health 2022; 21:116. [PMID: 36434620 PMCID: PMC9700969 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-022-00935-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to anthropogenic activities and global warming, the severity and distribution of harmful algal blooms (HABs) have been increasing steadily worldwide, including in South Korea (S. Korea). Previous studies reported that exposure to HABs could increase the risk of HAB-related diseases. However, very few studies examined the linkage between HABs and disease occurrence, particularly in S. Korea. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential impact of HABs on neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and motor neuron disease, at a population level. METHODS Thirteen-year data (2005-2017) for chlorophyll-a (chl-a) concentrations as a bloom-related parameter, annual numbers of NDs, and population information were collected. First, the entire area of S. Korea was divided into a grid of 1 km, and the population number in each 1-km grid was collected using the Statistical Geographic Information Service Plus system. Cross-sectional time series data were analyzed with two statistical models, a generalized linear mixed model and a generalized linear model. RESULTS The results show a general trend of increasing chl-a concentration and NDs year by year. We observed positive correlations between HAB intensity and the incidence rate of NDs. Particularly, HABs seem to have the most long-term carry-over effect on Parkinson's disease. Another key finding was that a 5-km radius from the HAB location was the boundary that showed the most significant associations with three NDs. CONCLUSIONS This study provides statistical evidence that supports the potential risk of NDs from the exposure to HAB. Thus, it is recommended to monitor a broad spectrum of cyanotoxins, including neurotoxins, in bloom-affected regions in S. Korea and epidemiological studies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungjun Lee
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Fisheries Science, Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Boseung Choi
- Division of Big Data Science, Korea University, Sejong, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Mathematics Group, Institute for Basic Science, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Jae Kim
- Department of Economics and Statistics, Korea University, Sejong, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinnam Kim
- Department of Biology, Kyungsung University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Dayun Kang
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Fisheries Science, Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiyoung Lee
- College of Public Health, Division of Environmental Health Sciences, The Ohio State University, 406 Cunz Hall, 1841 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
- Department of Food Science and Technology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
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19
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Non-Proteinogenic Amino Acid β-N-Methylamino-L-Alanine (BMAA): Bioactivity and Ecological Significance. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14080539. [PMID: 36006201 PMCID: PMC9414260 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14080539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Research interest in a non-protein amino acid β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) arose due to the discovery of a connection between exposure to BMAA and the occurrence of neurodegenerative diseases. Previous reviews on this topic either considered BMAA as a risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases or focused on the problems of detecting BMAA in various environmental samples. Our review is devoted to a wide range of fundamental biological problems related to BMAA, including the molecular mechanisms of biological activity of BMAA and the complex relationships between producers of BMAA and the environment in various natural ecosystems. At the beginning, we briefly recall the most important facts about the producers of BMAA (cyanobacteria, microalgae, and bacteria), the pathways of BMAA biosynthesis, and reliable methods of identification of BMAA. The main distinctive feature of our review is a detailed examination of the molecular mechanisms underlying the toxicity of BMAA to living cells. A brand new aspect, not previously discussed in any reviews, is the effect of BMAA on cyanobacterial cells. These recent studies, conducted using transcriptomics and proteomics, revealed potent regulatory effects of BMAA on the basic metabolism and cell development of these ancient photoautotrophic prokaryotes. Exogenous BMAA strongly influences cell differentiation and primary metabolic processes in cyanobacteria, such as nitrogen fixation, photosynthesis, carbon fixation, and various biosynthetic processes involving 2-oxoglutarate and glutamate. Cyanobacteria were found to be more sensitive to exogenous BMAA under nitrogen-limited growth conditions. We suggest a hypothesis that this toxic diaminoacid can be used by phytoplankton organisms as a possible allelopathic tool for controlling the population of cyanobacterial cells during a period of intense competition for nitrogen and other resources in various ecosystems.
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20
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Kim SY, Rasmussen U, Rydberg S. Effect and function of β-N-methylamino-L-alanine in the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 830:154778. [PMID: 35341850 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) is an environmental factor connected to neurodegenerative diseases. BMAA can be produced by various microorganisms (e.g. bacteria, cyanobacteria, dinoflagellates and diatoms) present in diverse ecosystems. No previous study has revealed the function of BMAA in diatoms. In the present study, we combined physiological data with metabolomic and transcriptional data in order to investigate the effect and function of BMAA in the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum. P. tricornutum, exposed to different concentrations of exogenous BMAA, showed concentration dependent responses. When the concentration of supplemented BMAA was sufficient to arrest the growth of P. tricornutum, oxidative stress and obstructed carbon fixation were obtained from the specific metabolite and transcriptional data. Results also indicated increased concentration of intracellular chlorophyll a and alterations in the GS-GOGAT cycle, whereas the urea cycle was suppressed. We therefore conclude that BMAA represents a toxic metabolite able to control the growth of P. tricornutum by triggering oxidative stress, and further influencing photosynthesis and nitrogen metabolisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sea-Yong Kim
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, SE 10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulla Rasmussen
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, SE 10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sara Rydberg
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, SE 10691 Stockholm, Sweden.
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21
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Cabrita A, Medeiros AM, Pereira T, Rodrigues AS, Kranendonk M, Mendes CS. Motor dysfunction in Drosophila melanogaster as a biomarker for developmental neurotoxicity. iScience 2022; 25:104541. [PMID: 35769875 PMCID: PMC9234254 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Adequate alternatives to conventional animal testing are needed to study developmental neurotoxicity (DNT). Here, we used kinematic analysis to assess DNT of known (toluene (TOL) and chlorpyrifos (CPS)) and putative (β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA)) neurotoxic compounds. Drosophila melanogaster was exposed to these compounds during development and evaluated for survival and adult kinematic parameters using the FlyWalker system, a kinematics evaluation method. At concentrations that do not induce general toxicity, the solvent DMSO had a significant effect on kinematic parameters. Moreover, while TOL did not significantly induce lethality or kinematic dysfunction, CPS not only induced developmental lethality but also significantly impaired coordination in comparison to DMSO. Interestingly, BMAA, which was not lethal during development, induced motor decay in young adult animals, phenotypically resembling aged flies, an effect later attenuated upon aging. Furthermore, BMAA induced abnormal development of leg motor neuron projections. Our results suggest that our kinematic approach can assess potential DNT of chemical compounds. Alternatives to mammalian testing are needed to detect developmental neurotoxicity The pesticide chlorpyrifos causes partial lethality and motor dysfunction Non-lethal levels of BMAA induce motor dysfunction in a dose-dependent manner Kinematic profiling of adult Drosophila can identify developmental neurotoxicity
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cabrita
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Alexandra M. Medeiros
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Telmo Pereira
- NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - António Sebastião Rodrigues
- ToxOmics, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Michel Kranendonk
- ToxOmics, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Corresponding author
| | - César S. Mendes
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Corresponding author
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22
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Tan HY, Yong YK, Xue YC, Liu H, Furihata T, Shankar EM, Ng CS. cGAS and DDX41-STING mediated intrinsic immunity spreads intercellularly to promote neuroinflammation in SOD1 ALS model. iScience 2022; 25:104404. [PMID: 35712074 PMCID: PMC9194172 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation exacerbates the progression of SOD1-driven amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), although the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Herein, we demonstrate that misfolded SOD1 (SOD1Mut)-causing ALS results in mitochondrial damage, thus triggering the release of mtDNA and an RNA:DNA hybrid into the cytosol in an mPTP-independent manner to activate IRF3- and IFNAR-dependent type I interferon (IFN-I) and interferon-stimulating genes. The neuronal hyper-IFN-I and pro-inflammatory responses triggered in ALS-SOD1Mut were sufficiently robust to cause a strong physiological outcome in vitro and in vivo. cGAS/DDX41-STING-signaling is amplified in bystander cells through inter-neuronal gap junctions. Our results highlight the importance of a common DNA-sensing pathway between SOD1 and TDP-43 in influencing the progression of ALS. Constitutive basal activation of IFN-I was found in the SOD1-ALS animal model SOD1-ALS damaged mitochondria to release mtDNA and RNA:DNA to activate the STING-pathway Blocking cGAS and STING diminishes neurodegeneration in vivo in the SOD1-ALS model Connexin and pannexin channels are required to propagate neuroinflammation in SOD1-ALS
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Yien Tan
- Laboratory Centre, Xiamen University Malaysia, Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia.,School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xiamen University Malaysia, Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Yean Kong Yong
- Laboratory Centre, Xiamen University Malaysia, Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Yuan Chao Xue
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Huitao Liu
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Tomomi Furihata
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Esaki Muthu Shankar
- Infection Biology, Department of Life Sciences, Central University of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvarur, India
| | - Chen Seng Ng
- China-ASEAN College of Marine Sciences, Xiamen University Malaysia, Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia
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23
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Courtier A, Potheret D, Giannoni P. Environmental bacteria as triggers to brain disease: Possible mechanisms of toxicity and associated human risk. Life Sci 2022; 304:120689. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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24
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Neuropathological Mechanisms of β-N-Methylamino-L-Alanine (BMAA) with a Focus on Iron Overload and Ferroptosis. Neurotox Res 2022; 40:614-635. [PMID: 35023054 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-021-00455-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of neurodegenerative diseases and cyanobacterial blooms is concomitantly increasing worldwide. The cyanotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) is produced by most of the Cyanobacteria spp. This cyanotoxin is described as a potential environmental etiology factor for some sporadic neurodegenerative diseases. Climate change and eutrophication significantly increase the frequency and intensity of cyanobacterial bloom in water bodies. This review evaluates different neuropathological mechanisms of BMAA at molecular and cellular levels and compares the related studies to provide some useful recommendations. Additionally, the structure and properties of BMAA as well as its microbial origin, especially by gut bacteria, are also briefly covered. Unlike previous reviews, we hypothesize the possible neurotoxic mechanism of BMAA through iron overload. We also discuss the involvement of BMAA in excitotoxicity, TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) translocation and accumulation, tauopathy, and other protein misincorporation and misfolding.
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25
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Davis DA, Garamszegi SP, Banack SA, Dooley PD, Coyne TM, McLean DW, Rotstein DS, Mash DC, Cox PA. BMAA, Methylmercury, and Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration in Dolphins: A Natural Model of Toxin Exposure. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13100697. [PMID: 34678990 PMCID: PMC8540894 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13100697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Dolphins are well-regarded sentinels for toxin exposure and can bioaccumulate a cyanotoxin called β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) that has been linked to human neurodegenerative disease. The same dolphins also possessed hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), suggesting a possible association between toxin exposure and neuropathology. However, the mechanisms of neurodegeneration in dolphins and the impact cyanotoxins have on these processes are unknown. Here, we evaluate BMAA exposure by investigating transcription signatures using PCR for dolphin genes homologous to those implicated in AD and related dementias: APP, PSEN1, PSEN2, MAPT, GRN, TARDBP, and C9orf72. Immunohistochemistry and Sevier Münger silver staining were used to validate neuropathology. Methylmercury (MeHg), a synergistic neurotoxicant with BMAA, was also measured using PT-GC-AFS. We report that dolphins have up to a three-fold increase in gene transcription related to Aβ+ plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, neuritic plaques, and TDP-43+ intracytoplasmic inclusions. The upregulation of gene transcription in our dolphin cohort paralleled increasing BMAA concentration. In addition, dolphins with BMAA exposures equivalent to those reported in AD patients displayed up to a 14-fold increase in AD-type neuropathology. MeHg was detected (0.16–0.41 μg/g) and toxicity associated with exposure was also observed in the brain. These results demonstrate that dolphins develop neuropathology associated with AD and exposure to BMAA and MeHg may augment these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A. Davis
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (S.P.G.); (P.D.D.); (D.W.M.); (D.C.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Susanna P. Garamszegi
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (S.P.G.); (P.D.D.); (D.W.M.); (D.C.M.)
| | - Sandra Anne Banack
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY 83001, USA; (S.A.B.); (P.A.C.)
| | - Patrick D. Dooley
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (S.P.G.); (P.D.D.); (D.W.M.); (D.C.M.)
| | - Thomas M. Coyne
- Office of the District 21 Medical Examiner, Fort Myers, FL 33907, USA;
| | - Dylan W. McLean
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (S.P.G.); (P.D.D.); (D.W.M.); (D.C.M.)
| | | | - Deborah C. Mash
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (S.P.G.); (P.D.D.); (D.W.M.); (D.C.M.)
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Davie, FL 33328, USA
| | - Paul Alan Cox
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY 83001, USA; (S.A.B.); (P.A.C.)
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26
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Cyanotoxins and the Nervous System. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13090660. [PMID: 34564664 PMCID: PMC8472772 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13090660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyanobacteria are capable of producing a wide range of bioactive compounds with many considered to be toxins. Although there are a number of toxicological outcomes with respect to cyanobacterial exposure, this review aims to examine those which affect the central nervous system (CNS) or have neurotoxicological properties. Such exposures can be acute or chronic, and we detail issues concerning CNS entry, detection and remediation. Exposure can occur through a variety of media but, increasingly, exposure through air via inhalation may have greater significance and requires further investigation. Even though cyanobacterial toxins have traditionally been classified based on their primary mode of toxicity, increasing evidence suggests that some also possess neurotoxic properties and include known cyanotoxins and unknown compounds. Furthermore, chronic long-term exposure to these compounds is increasingly being identified as adversely affecting human health.
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27
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Cyanobacteria, Cyanotoxins, and Neurodegenerative Diseases: Dangerous Liaisons. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168726. [PMID: 34445429 PMCID: PMC8395864 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of neurodegenerative disease (ND) is increasing, partly owing to extensions in lifespan, with a larger percentage of members living to an older age, but the ND aetiology and pathogenesis are not fully understood, and effective treatments are still lacking. Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are generally thought to progress as a consequence of genetic susceptibility and environmental influences. Up to now, several environmental triggers have been associated with NDs, and recent studies suggest that some cyanotoxins, produced by cyanobacteria and acting through a variety of molecular mechanisms, are highly neurotoxic, although their roles in neuropathy and particularly in NDs are still controversial. In this review, we summarize the most relevant and recent evidence that points at cyanotoxins as environmental triggers in NDs development.
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28
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Quinn AW, Phillips CR, Violi JP, Steele JR, Johnson MS, Westerhausen MT, Rodgers KJ. β-Methylamino-L-alanine-induced protein aggregation in vitro and protection by L-serine. Amino Acids 2021; 53:1351-1359. [PMID: 34283312 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-021-03049-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The cyanobacterial non-protein amino acid α-amino-β-methylaminopropionic acid, more commonly known as BMAA, was first discovered in the seeds of the ancient gymnosperm Cycad circinalis (now Cycas micronesica Hill). BMAA was linked to the high incidence of neurological disorders on the island of Guam first reported in the 1950s. BMAA still attracts interest as a possible causative factor in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) following the identification of ALS disease clusters associated with living in proximity to lakes with regular cyanobacterial blooms. Since its discovery, BMAA toxicity has been the subject of many in vivo and in vitro studies. A number of mechanisms of toxicity have been proposed including an agonist effect at glutamate receptors, competition with cysteine for transport system xc_ and other mechanisms capable of generating cellular oxidative stress. In addition, a wide range of studies have reported effects related to disturbances in proteostasis including endoplasmic reticulum stress and activation of the unfolded protein response. In the present studies we examine the effects of BMAA on the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) and on chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA) by measuring levels of ubiquitinated proteins and lamp2a protein levels in a differentiated neuronal cell line exposed to BMAA. The BMAA induced increases in oxidised proteins and the increase in CMA activity reported could be prevented by co-administration of L-serine but not by the two antioxidants examined. These data provide further evidence of a protective role for L-serine against the deleterious effects of BMAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam W Quinn
- Neurotoxin Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Syd, ney, Faculty of Science, Building 4, Level 7, room 329. Thomas Street, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Connor R Phillips
- Neurotoxin Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Syd, ney, Faculty of Science, Building 4, Level 7, room 329. Thomas Street, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Jake P Violi
- Neurotoxin Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Syd, ney, Faculty of Science, Building 4, Level 7, room 329. Thomas Street, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Joel R Steele
- Neurotoxin Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Syd, ney, Faculty of Science, Building 4, Level 7, room 329. Thomas Street, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Michael S Johnson
- Neurotoxin Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Syd, ney, Faculty of Science, Building 4, Level 7, room 329. Thomas Street, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Mika T Westerhausen
- Neurotoxin Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Syd, ney, Faculty of Science, Building 4, Level 7, room 329. Thomas Street, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Kenneth J Rodgers
- Neurotoxin Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Syd, ney, Faculty of Science, Building 4, Level 7, room 329. Thomas Street, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia.
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29
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Hofbauer WK. Toxic or Otherwise Harmful Algae and the Built Environment. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:465. [PMID: 34209446 PMCID: PMC8310063 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13070465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This article gives a comprehensive overview on potentially harmful algae occurring in the built environment. Man-made structures provide diverse habitats where algae can grow, mainly aerophytic in nature. Literature reveals that algae that is potentially harmful to humans do occur in the anthropogenic environment in the air, on surfaces or in water bodies. Algae may negatively affect humans in different ways: they may be toxic, allergenic and pathogenic to humans or attack human structures. Toxin-producing alga are represented in the built environment mainly by blue green algae (Cyanoprokaryota). In special occasions, other toxic algae may also be involved. Green algae (Chlorophyta) found airborne or growing on manmade surfaces may be allergenic whereas Cyanoprokaryota and other forms may not only be toxic but also allergenic. Pathogenicity is found only in a special group of algae, especially in the genus Prototheca. In addition, rare cases with infections due to algae with green chloroplasts are reported. Algal action may be involved in the biodeterioration of buildings and works of art, which is still discussed controversially. Whereas in many cases the disfigurement of surfaces and even the corrosion of materials is encountered, in other cases a protective effect on the materials is reported. A comprehensive list of 79 taxa of potentially harmful, airborne algae supplemented with their counterparts occurring in the built environment, is given. Due to global climate change, it is not unlikely that the built environment will suffer from more and higher amounts of harmful algal species in the future. Therefore, intensified research in composition, ecophysiology and development of algal growth in the built environment is indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Karl Hofbauer
- Umwelt, Hygiene und Sensorik, Fraunhofer-Institut für Bauphysik, 83626 Valley, Bavaria, Germany
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30
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Wang C, Yan C, Qiu J, Liu C, Yan Y, Ji Y, Wang G, Chen H, Li Y, Li A. Food web biomagnification of the neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine in a diatom-dominated marine ecosystem in China. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 404:124217. [PMID: 33129020 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.124217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) reported in some cyanobacteria and eukaryote microalgae is a cause of concern due to its potential risk of human neurodegenerative diseases. Here, BMAA distribution in phytoplankton, zooplankton, and other marine organisms was investigated in Jiaozhou Bay, China, a diatom-dominated marine ecosystem, during four seasons in 2019. Results showed that BMAA was biomagnified in the food web from phytoplankton to higher trophic levels. Trophic magnification factors (TMFs) for zooplankton, bivalve mollusks, carnivorous crustaceans and carnivorous gastropod mollusks were ca. 4.58, 30.1, 42.5, and 74.4, respectively. Putative identification of β-amino-N-methylalanine (BAMA), an isomer of BMAA, was frequently detected in phytoplankton samples. A total of 56 diatom strains of the genera Pseudo-nitzschia, Thalassiosira, Chaetoceros, Planktoniella, and Minidiscus isolated from the Chinese coast were cultured in the laboratory, among which 21 strains contained BMAA mainly in precipitated bound form at toxin concentrations ranging from 0.11 to 3.95 µg/g dry weight. Only 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB) but not BMAA or BAMA was detected in seven species of bacteria isolated from the gut of gastropod Neverita didyma, suggesting that this benthic vector of BMAA may have accumulated this compound via trophic transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Chen Yan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Jiangbing Qiu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Chao Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Yeju Yan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Ying Ji
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Guixiang Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Hongju Chen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Yang Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Healthy and Safe Aquaculture, College of Life Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Aifeng Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China.
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31
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Ra D, Sa B, Sl B, Js M, Sj M, DA D, Ew S, O K, Eb B, Ad C, Vx T, Gg G, Pa C, Dc M, Wg B. Is Exposure to BMAA a Risk Factor for Neurodegenerative Diseases? A Response to a Critical Review of the BMAA Hypothesis. Neurotox Res 2021; 39:81-106. [PMID: 33547590 PMCID: PMC7904546 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-020-00302-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In a literature survey, Chernoff et al. (2017) dismissed the hypothesis that chronic exposure to β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) may be a risk factor for progressive neurodegenerative disease. They question the growing scientific literature that suggests the following: (1) BMAA exposure causes ALS/PDC among the indigenous Chamorro people of Guam; (2) Guamanian ALS/PDC shares clinical and neuropathological features with Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and ALS; (3) one possible mechanism for protein misfolds is misincorporation of BMAA into proteins as a substitute for L-serine; and (4) chronic exposure to BMAA through diet or environmental exposures to cyanobacterial blooms can cause neurodegenerative disease. We here identify multiple errors in their critique including the following: (1) their review selectively cites the published literature; (2) the authors reported favorably on HILIC methods of BMAA detection while the literature shows significant matrix effects and peak coelution in HILIC that may prevent detection and quantification of BMAA in cyanobacteria; (3) the authors build alternative arguments to the BMAA hypothesis, rather than explain the published literature which, to date, has been unable to refute the BMAA hypothesis; and (4) the authors erroneously attribute methods to incorrect studies, indicative of a failure to carefully consider all relevant publications. The lack of attention to BMAA research begins with the review’s title which incorrectly refers to BMAA as a “non-essential” amino acid. Research regarding chronic exposure to BMAA as a cause of human neurodegenerative diseases is emerging and requires additional resources, validation, and research. Here, we propose strategies for improvement in the execution and reporting of analytical methods and the need for additional and well-executed inter-lab comparisons for BMAA quantitation. We emphasize the need for optimization and validation of analytical methods to ensure that they are fit-for-purpose. Although there remain gaps in the literature, an increasingly large body of data from multiple independent labs using orthogonal methods provides increasing evidence that chronic exposure to BMAA may be a risk factor for neurological illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dunlop Ra
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA.
| | - Banack Sa
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA
| | - Bishop Sl
- Lewis Research Group, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Metcalf Js
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA
| | - Murch Sj
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Davis DA
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Stommel Ew
- Department of Neurology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Karlsson O
- Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Brittebo Eb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Tan Vx
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie University, Ryde, Australia
| | - Guillemin Gg
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie University, Ryde, Australia
| | - Cox Pa
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA
| | - Mash Dc
- Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Bradley Wg
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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32
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Eiser AR, Fulop T. Extra-cranial factors in the development of Alzheimer's disease. Brain Res 2020; 1748:147076. [PMID: 32853641 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2020.147076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The development of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) likely involves dysfunction in more than one extra-cranial organ system. AD appears to depend on several functional organ impairments that develops frequently during aging: lack of normal hepatic synthesis, defective detoxification of ammonia, gut microbiome dysbiosis, the development of insulin resistance, diminished adrenal production of dehydroepiandrosterone, nutrient depletion, impaired immune processes with persistent chronic neuro-inflammation, and persistent infectious processes are important components of this system-wide disorder. By reviewing these abnormalities in different organ systems, this review intends to suggest that clinical research into the prevention of dementia needs to take this interplay of organ system dysfunction into account. The design of therapeutic interventions needs to address dysfunction in more than one system at a time. We have singled out one aberrant signaling pathway, NF-kB, that seems common to several of the dysfunctional organ systems and suggest some potential interventions that may be effective when combined with others. Clinical research may need to shift from single factor interventions to studies that include multiple simultaneous interventions that restore health in multiple impaired organ systems in the aging human in order to avert future epidemics of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnold R Eiser
- Adjunct Senior Fellow, Leonard Davis Institute, University of Pennsylvania, 3641 Locust Walk, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Tamas Fulop
- Professor of Medicine and Geriatrics, Research Center on Aging, University of Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
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33
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Davis DA, Cox PA, Banack SA, Lecusay PD, Garamszegi SP, Hagan MJ, Powell JT, Metcalf JS, Palmour RM, Beierschmitt A, Bradley WG, Mash DC. l-Serine Reduces Spinal Cord Pathology in a Vervet Model of Preclinical ALS/MND. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2020; 79:393-406. [PMID: 32077471 PMCID: PMC7092359 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/nlaa002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The early neuropathological features of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/motor neuron disease (ALS/MND) are protein aggregates in motor neurons and microglial activation. Similar pathology characterizes Guamanian ALS/Parkinsonism dementia complex, which may be triggered by the cyanotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA). We report here the occurrence of ALS/MND-type pathological changes in vervets (Chlorocebus sabaeus; n = 8) fed oral doses of a dry powder of BMAA HCl salt (210 mg/kg/day) for 140 days. Spinal cords and brains from toxin-exposed vervets were compared to controls fed rice flour (210 mg/kg/day) and to vervets coadministered equal amounts of BMAA and l-serine (210 mg/kg/day). Immunohistochemistry and quantitative image analysis were used to examine markers of ALS/MND and glial activation. UHPLC-MS/MS was used to confirm BMAA exposures in dosed vervets. Motor neuron degeneration was demonstrated in BMAA-dosed vervets by TDP-43+ proteinopathy in anterior horn cells, by reactive astrogliosis, by activated microglia, and by damage to myelinated axons in the lateral corticospinal tracts. Vervets dosed with BMAA + l-serine displayed reduced neuropathological changes. This study demonstrates that chronic dietary exposure to BMAA causes ALS/MND-type pathological changes in the vervet and coadministration of l-serine reduces the amount of reactive gliosis and the number of protein inclusions in motor neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Davis
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
| | - Paul Alan Cox
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida.,Brain Chemistry Labs, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
| | - Sandra Anne Banack
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida.,Brain Chemistry Labs, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
| | | | | | - Matthew J Hagan
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
| | | | | | - Roberta M Palmour
- Behavioural Science Foundation, St. Kitts and Nevis, West Indies.,Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Amy Beierschmitt
- Behavioural Science Foundation, St. Kitts and Nevis, West Indies.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, St. Kitts and Nevis, West Indies
| | - Walter G Bradley
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
| | - Deborah C Mash
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida.,Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Davie, Florida
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34
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Schneider T, Simpson C, Desai P, Tucker M, Lobner D. Neurotoxicity of isomers of the environmental toxin L-BMAA. Toxicon 2020; 184:175-179. [PMID: 32585217 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
There is evidence that the environmental toxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (L-BMAA) may be involved in neurodegenerative diseases. However, a number of controversies exist regarding L-BMAA, one of which is the possibility that when assaying for L-BMAA, its isomers are being detected instead. There are at least four isomers of BMAA that are known to occur: L-BMAA, β-N-methylamino-D-alanine (D-BMAA), 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB), and N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine (AEG). The fact that isomers of BMAA exist in nature also leads to the possibility that they are involved in toxicity. We set out to determine both the potency and the mechanism of toxicity of L-BMAA, D-BMAA, DAB, asnd AEG using primary cortical cultures. The results were surprising with the following order of potency of toxicity: AEG > DAB > D-BMAA > L-BMAA. These results suggest that AEG may be an overlooked neurotoxin. We found that AEG induced toxicity through mGluR5 receptors and induction of oxidative stress. While the potential role of L-BMAA in neurodegenerative diseases has been emphasized, other isomers of L-BMAA, particularly AEG, are actually more potent toxins, and could therefore potentially contribute to neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Schneider
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, 561 N. 15th Street, Rm 426,Milwaukee, WI, 53233, USA
| | - Catherine Simpson
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, 561 N. 15th Street, Rm 426,Milwaukee, WI, 53233, USA
| | - Prachi Desai
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, 561 N. 15th Street, Rm 426,Milwaukee, WI, 53233, USA
| | - Madeleine Tucker
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, 561 N. 15th Street, Rm 426,Milwaukee, WI, 53233, USA
| | - Doug Lobner
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, 561 N. 15th Street, Rm 426,Milwaukee, WI, 53233, USA.
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35
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Transfer of the Neurotoxin β- N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) in the Agro-Aqua Cycle. Mar Drugs 2020; 18:md18050244. [PMID: 32384637 PMCID: PMC7281744 DOI: 10.3390/md18050244] [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: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurotoxic non-protein amino acid β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) is connected to the development of neurodegenerative diseases. BMAA has been shown to accumulate in aquatic ecosystems, and filter-feeding molluscs seem particularly susceptible to BMAA accumulation. The blue mussels farmed along the Swedish coastline in the Baltic Sea are, due to their small size, exclusively used to produce feed for chicken and fish in the agro-aqua cycle. We have investigated the possible biotransfer of BMAA from mussels, via mussel-based feed, into chickens. Chickens were divided into two groups, the control and the treatment. BMAA was extracted from the muscle, liver, brain, and eye tissues in both chicken groups; a UPLC-MS/MS method was subsequently used to quantify BMAA. The results indicate detectable concentrations of BMAA in both chicken groups. However, the BMAA concentration in chicken was 5.65 times higher in the treatment group than the control group, with the highest concentration found in muscle tissue extracted from the treatment group chickens. These data suggest that there is a BMAA transfer route within the agro-aqua cycle, so further investigation is recommended before using mussel-based feed in the chicken industry.
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Korn A, Höfling C, Zeitschel U, Krueger M, Roßner S, Huster D. Incorporation of the Nonproteinogenic Amino Acid β-Methylamino-alanine Affects Amyloid β Fibril Properties and Toxicity. ACS Chem Neurosci 2020; 11:1038-1047. [PMID: 32141731 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.9b00660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The nonproteinogenic amino acid β-methylamino alarelevant example for environmental hazards are nonnine (BMAA) is a neurotoxin and represents a potential risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. Despite intense research over the last years, the pathological mechanism of BMAA is still unclear. One of the main open questions is whether BMAA can be misincorporated into proteins, especially as a substitute for serine, and whether this has structural and functional consequences for the afflicted proteins leading to early onset neurodegeneration. In this study, we hypothesize that BMAA was indeed incorporated into Aβ40 molecules and study the structural and dynamical consequences of such misincorporation along with the effect such mutated Aβ40 peptides have on neuronal cells. We used the synthetic β-amyloid peptide (Aβ40), a known key player in the development of Alzheimer's disease, to incorporate BMAA substitutions at three different positions in the peptide sequence: Ser8BMAA at the peptide's N-terminus, Phe19BMAA in the hydrophobic core region, and S26BMAA in the flexible turn region of Aβ40 fibrils. We performed a set of biophysical experiments including fluorescence, circular dichroism, solid-state NMR spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction to investigate structural and functional aspects of the mutated peptides compared to wildtype Aβ40. All variants showed high structural tolerance to BMAA misincorporation. In contrast, the cellular response and neuronal survival were affected in a mutation site-specific manner. As a consequence, we can state from the physicochemical point of view that, if BMAA was misincorporated into proteins, it could indeed represent a risk factor that could potentially play a role in neurodegeneration. Further research addressing the role of BMAA, especially its protein-associated form, should be performed to obtain a better understanding of neurodegenerative diseases and to develop new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Korn
- Institute for Medical Physics and Biophysics, Leipzig University, Härtelstr. 16-18, D-04107 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Corinna Höfling
- Paul Flechsig Institute for Brain Research, Leipzig University, Liebigstr. 19, D-04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ulrike Zeitschel
- Paul Flechsig Institute for Brain Research, Leipzig University, Liebigstr. 19, D-04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Martin Krueger
- Institute of Anatomy, Leipzig University, Liebigstr 13, D-04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Steffen Roßner
- Paul Flechsig Institute for Brain Research, Leipzig University, Liebigstr. 19, D-04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Daniel Huster
- Institute for Medical Physics and Biophysics, Leipzig University, Härtelstr. 16-18, D-04107 Leipzig, Germany
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Energy Balance as a Moderator of Neurologic Disease Risk and Progression. Neurotox Res 2020; 38:242-248. [PMID: 32215816 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-020-00190-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating disease that like multiple other neurologic diseases has no curative treatment currently available. Environmental exposures to known neurotoxic compounds (e.g., pesticides, heavy metals, cyanobacterial toxins, etc.) are identified as risk factors associated with ALS. Assuming these environmental factors have causative roles in disease risk and given the ubiquity of these types of exposures for the modern human, why are not more people afflicted with ALS? Herein is proposed an energy balance moderation framework (EBMF)-a framework that postulates energy balance as a key moderator of neurologic disease risk. The EBMF proposes that the ability of the body to handle toxic compound exposures through excretion, metabolism, and/or storage impacts the acute and chronic tissue-specific toxicity which is moderated by energy balance. In this model, positive energy balance (weight gain or excess body weight/mass) would be protective against acute neurotoxic exposure permitting the assimilation and sequestration of toxic compounds within body stores separate from the nervous system. However, this protective buffering could be lost during sustained negative energy balance (weight loss) with the release of sequestered compounds redistributing to the nervous system. The EBMF may have relevance beyond ALS for other neurologic diseases with demonstrated environmental risks (such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease) and offers new insights into potential strategies to reduce disease risk and develop novel treatments.
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38
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Swash M, Eisen A. Hypothesis: amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and environmental pollutants. Muscle Nerve 2020; 62:187-191. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.26855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Swash
- Barts and The London School of MedicineQueen Mary University of London and Royal London Hospital London UK
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Lisbon Lisbon Portugal
| | - Andrew Eisen
- Division of NeurologyUniversity of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
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Elfil M, Kamel S, Kandil M, Koo BB, Schaefer SM. Implications of the Gut Microbiome in Parkinson's Disease. Mov Disord 2020; 35:921-933. [DOI: 10.1002/mds.28004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Elfil
- Department of NeurologyYale University New Haven Connecticut USA
| | - Serageldin Kamel
- Department of NeurologyYale University New Haven Connecticut USA
| | - Mohamed Kandil
- Department of NeurologyYale University New Haven Connecticut USA
| | - Brian B. Koo
- Department of NeurologyYale University New Haven Connecticut USA
- Center for Neuroepidemiology and Clinical Neurologic Research Yale New Haven Connecticut USA
- Department of NeurologyConnecticut Veterans Affairs Healthcare System West Haven Connecticut USA
| | - Sara M. Schaefer
- Department of NeurologyYale University New Haven Connecticut USA
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40
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How the Neurotoxin β- N-Methylamino-l-Alanine Accumulates in Bivalves: Distribution of the Different Accumulation Fractions among Organs. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12020061. [PMID: 31972955 PMCID: PMC7076761 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12020061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The environmental neurotoxin β-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) may represent a risk for human health. BMAA accumulates in freshwater and marine organisms consumed by humans. However, few data are available about the kinetics of BMAA accumulation and detoxification in exposed organisms, as well as the organ distribution and the fractions in which BMAA is present in tissues (free, soluble bound or precipitated bound cellular fractions). Here, we exposed the bivalve mussel Dreissena polymorpha to 7.5 µg of dissolved BMAA/mussel/3 days for 21 days, followed by 21 days of depuration in clear water. At 1, 3, 8, 14 and 21 days of exposure and depuration, the hemolymph and organs (digestive gland, the gills, the mantle, the gonad and muscles/foot) were sampled. Total BMAA as well as free BMAA, soluble bound and precipitated bound BMAA were quantified by tandem mass spectrometry. Free and soluble bound BMAA spread throughout all tissues from the first day of exposure to the last day of depuration, without a specific target organ. However, precipitated bound BMAA was detected only in muscles and foot from the last day of exposure to day 8 of depuration, at a lower concentration compared to free and soluble bound BMAA. In soft tissues (digestive gland, gonad, gills, mantle and muscles/foot), BMAA mostly accumulated as a free molecule and in the soluble bound fraction, with variations occurring between the two fractions among tissues and over time. The results suggest that the assessment of bivalve contamination by BMAA may require the quantification of total BMAA in whole individuals when possible.
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Diaz-Parga P, Goto JJ, Krishnan VV. On the Differential Roles of Mg 2+, Zn 2+, and Cu 2+ in the Equilibrium of β-N-Methyl-Amino-L-Alanine (BMAA) and its Carbamates. Neurotox Res 2020; 39:6-16. [PMID: 31955368 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-019-00157-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
β-N-methyl-amino-L-alanine (BMAA) in the presence of bicarbonate (HCO3-) undergoes structural modifications generating two carbamate species, α-carbamate and β-carbamate forms of BMAA. The chemical structure of BMAA and BMAA-carbamate adducts strongly suggest they may interact with divalent metal ions. The ability of BMAA to cross the blood-brain barrier and possibly interact with divalent metal ions may augment the neurotoxicity of these molecules. To understand the effects of divalent metal ions (Mg2+, Zn2+, and Cu2+) on the overall dynamic equilibrium between BMAA and its carbamate adducts, a systematic study using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is presented. The chemical equilibria between BMAA, its carbamate adducts, and each of the divalent ions were studied using two-dimensional chemical exchange spectroscopy (EXSY). The NMR results demonstrate that BMAA preferentially interacts with Zn2+ and Cu2+, causing an overall reduction in the production of carbamate species by altering the dynamic equilibria. The NMR-based spectral changes due to the BMAA interaction with Cu2+ is more drastic than with the Zn2+, under the same stoichiometric ratios of BMAA and the individual divalent ions. However, the presence of Mg2+ does not significantly alter the dynamic equilibria between BMAA and its carbamate adducts. The NMR-based results are further validated using circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, observing the n ➔ π interaction in the complex formation of BMAA and the divalent metal ions, with additional verification of the interaction with Cu2+ using UV-Vis spectroscopy. Our results demonstrate that BMAA differentially interacts with divalent metal ions (Mg2+ < Zn2+ < Cu2+), and thus alters the rate of formation of carbamate products. The equilibria between BMAA, the bicarbonate ions, and the divalent metal ions may alter the total population of a specific form of BMAA-ion complex at physiological conditions and, therefore, add a level of complexity of the mechanisms by which BMAA acts as a neurotoxin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Diaz-Parga
- Department of Chemistry, California State University, Fresno, CA, 93740, USA
| | - Joy J Goto
- Department of Chemistry, California State University, Fresno, CA, 93740, USA.
| | - V V Krishnan
- Department of Chemistry, California State University, Fresno, CA, 93740, USA. .,Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
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Bishop SL, Murch SJ. A systematic review of analytical methods for the detection and quantification of β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA). Analyst 2019; 145:13-28. [PMID: 31742261 DOI: 10.1039/c9an01252d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are influenced by environmental factors such as exposure to toxins including the cyanotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) that can bioaccumulate in common food sources such as fish, mussels and crabs. Accurate and precise analytical methods are needed to detect and quantify BMAA to minimize human health risks. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the methods used for BMAA analysis from 2003 to 2019 and to evaluate the reported performance characteristics for each method to determine the consensus data for each analytical approach and different sample matrices. Detailed searches of the database Web of Science™ (WoS) were performed between August 21st, 2018 and April 5th, 2019. Eligible studies included analytical methods for the detection and quantification of BMAA in cyanobacteria and bioaccumulated BMAA in higher trophic levels, in phytoplankton and zooplankton and in human tissues and fluids. This systematic review has limitations in that only the English language literature is included and it did not include standard operating protocols nor any method validation data that have not been made public. We identified 148 eligible studies, of which a positive result for BMAA in one or more samples analyzed was reported in 84% (125 out of 148) of total studies, 57% of HILIC studies, 92% of RPLC studies and 71% of other studies. The largest discrepancy between different methods arose from the analysis of cyanobacteria samples, where BMAA was detected in 95% of RPLC studies but only in 25% of HILIC studies. Without sufficient published validation of each method's performance characteristics, it is difficult to establish each method as fit for purpose for each sample matrix. The importance of establishing methods as appropriate for their intended use is evidenced by the inconsistent reporting of BMAA across environmental samples, despite its prevalence in diverse ecosystems and food webs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Bishop
- Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia, CanadaV1V 1V7.
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43
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A Single Laboratory Validation for the Analysis of Underivatized β-N-Methylamino-L-Alanine (BMAA). Neurotox Res 2019; 39:49-71. [PMID: 31823228 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-019-00137-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
β-N-Methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) is a non-protein amino acid produced by cyanobacteria that can accumulate in ecosystems and food webs. Human exposure to cyanobacterial and algal blooms may be a risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Analytical chemists have struggled to find reliable methods for BMAA analysis in complex sample matrices. Analysis of BMAA is complicated by at least 3 naturally occurring isomers: N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine (AEG), 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB), and β-aminomethyl-L-alanine (BAMA). More than 350 publications have reported detection and quantification of BMAA and its isomers, but varying results have led to controversy in the literature. The objective of this study was to perform a single laboratory validation (SLV) of a frequently published method for BMAA analysis using a ZIC-HILIC column. We investigated the selectivity, linearity, accuracy, precision, and sensitivity of the method and our data show that this HILIC method fails many of the criteria for a validated method. The method fails the criterion for selectivity as the chromatography does not separate BMAA from its isomer BAMA. Sensitivity of the method greatly decreased over the experimental period and it demonstrated a higher limit of detection (LOD) (7.5 pg on column) and a higher lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) (30 pg on column) than other published validated methods. The method demonstrated poor precision of repeated injections of standards of BMAA with % relative standard deviation (%RSD) values that ranged from 37 to 107% while HorRat values for BMAA had a fail rate of 80% and BAMA had a fail rate of 73%. No HorRat values between 0.5 and 2 were found for repeated injections of standards of AEG and DAB. Recovery of 13C3,15N2-BMAA in a cyanobacterial matrix was < 10% in experiments and we were also unable to accurately detect other protein amino acids including methionine, cysteine, or alanine, indicating matrix effects. The results of this study demonstrate that the ZIC-HILIC column is not fit for purpose for the analysis of BMAA in cyanobacterial matrices and further provides explanations for the high level of negative results reported by researchers using this method.
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44
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Spencer P, Lagrange E, Camu W. ALS and environment: Clues from spatial clustering? Rev Neurol (Paris) 2019; 175:652-663. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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45
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Cao Y, Hu S, Gong T, Xian Q, Xu B. Decomposition of β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB) during chlorination and consequent disinfection byproducts formation. WATER RESEARCH 2019; 159:365-374. [PMID: 31112889 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2019.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2018] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB) are two newly identified algal toxins, and they may react with chlorine to undergo decomposition and generate disinfection byproducts (DBPs) during pre-chlorination as well as chlorine disinfection. In this study, the decomposition of BMAA and DAB during chlorination and the consequent DBPs formation were investigated. The BMAA and DAB concentrations in source waters were determined, the decomposition kinetics of BMAA and DAB and the formation of DBPs during chlorination were studied, the formation pathways of DBPs from BMAA and DAB were explored, and the factors which may affect the decomposition and DBPs formation were examined. The results revealed that BMAA and DAB were commonly detected in source waters from Taihu Lake, and the highest level of BMAA reached 230.8 ng/L, while the concentrations of DAB were generally around 2.0 ng/L. The decomposition of BMAA and DAB during chlorination both followed pseudo-first-order decay while the decomposition rate constant of DAB was significantly higher than that of BMAA. Trihalomethanes (THMs), haloacetic acids (HAAs), and haloacetonitriles (HANs) were all generated during the chlorination of BMAA and DAB with relatively high yields. Notably, the THMs, HAAs, and HANs yields of each carbon atom from BMAA and DAB were significantly higher than that from other organic precursors, and the formation of HANs from DAB was significantly higher than that from BMAA. The formation pathways of DBPs from BMAA and DAB were tentatively proposed and verified through theoretical calculations. Of note, the proposed formation pathways of THMs and HAAs from BMAA were similar to that from DAB, while the proposed formation pathways of HANs from BMAA and DAB showed some differences. Chlorine dose, pH and temperature all affected the decomposition of BMAA and DAB and DBPs formation during chlorination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Shaoyang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Tingting Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Qiming Xian
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Bin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
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46
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Ellis JE, Missan DS, Shabilla M, Moschonas C, Saperstein D, Martinez D, Becker CV, Fry SE. Comparison of the prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbial communities in peripheral blood from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, and control populations. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.humic.2019.100060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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47
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Metabolism of the neurotoxic amino acid β-N-methylamino-L-alanine in human cell culture models. Toxicon 2019; 168:131-139. [PMID: 31330193 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2019.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Human dietary exposure to the environmental neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) has been implicated in an increased risk of developing sporadic neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Evidence suggests that humans are exposed to BMAA globally, but very little is known about BMAA metabolism in mammalian systems, let alone in humans. The most plausible, evidence-based mechanisms of BMAA toxicity rely on the metabolic stability of the amino acid and that, following ingestion, it enters the circulatory system unmodified. BMAA crosses from the intestinal lumen into the circulatory system, and the small intestine and liver are the first sites for dietary amino acid metabolism. Both tissues have substantial amino acid metabolic needs, which are largely fulfilled by dietary amino acids. Metabolism of BMAA in these tissues has been largely overlooked, yet is important in gauging the true human exposure risk. Here we investigate the potential for BMAA metabolism by the human liver and small intestine, using in vitro cell systems. Data show that BMAA metabolism via common proteinogenic amino acid metabolic pathways is negligible, and that in the presence of other amino acids cellular uptake of BMAA is substantially reduced. These data suggest that the majority of ingested BMAA remains unmodified following passage through the small intestine and liver. This not only supports oral BMAA exposure as a plausible exposure route to toxic doses of BMAA, but also supports previous notions that protein deficient diets or malnutrition may increase an individual's susceptibility to BMAA absorption and subsequent toxicity.
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48
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Pierozan P, Karlsson O. Mitotically heritable effects of BMAA on striatal neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:478. [PMID: 31209203 PMCID: PMC6579766 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1710-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The widespread environmental contaminant β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) is a developmental neurotoxicant that can induce long-term learning and memory deficits. Studies have shown high transplacental transfer of 3H-BMAA and a significant uptake in fetal brain. Therefore, more information on how BMAA may influence growth and differentiation of neural stem cells is required for assessment of the risk to the developing brain. The aim of this study was to investigate direct and mitotically inherited effects of BMAA exposure using primary striatal neurons and embryonic neural stem cells. The neural stem cells were shown to be clearly more susceptible to BMAA exposure than primary neurons. Exposure to 250 µM BMAA reduced neural stem cell proliferation through apoptosis and G2/M arrest. At lower concentrations (50–100 µM), not affecting cell proliferation, BMAA reduced the differentiation of neural stem cells into astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and neurons through glutamatergic mechanisms. Neurons that were derived from the BMAA-treated neuronal stem cells demonstrated morphological alterations including reduced neurite length, and decreased number of processes and branches per cell. Interestingly, the BMAA-induced changes were mitotically heritable to daughter cells. The results suggest that early-life exposure to BMAA impairs neuronal stem cell programming, which is vital for development of the nervous system and may result in long-term consequences predisposing for both neurodevelopmental disorders and neurodegenerative disease later in life. More attention should be given to the potential adverse effects of BMAA exposure on brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Pierozan
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Environmental Sciences and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, 114 18, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Box 591, 751 24, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Oskar Karlsson
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Environmental Sciences and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, 114 18, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Box 591, 751 24, Uppsala, Sweden.
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49
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Fox M, Knorr DA, Haptonstall KM. Alzheimer's disease and symbiotic microbiota: an evolutionary medicine perspective. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2019; 1449:3-24. [PMID: 31180143 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.14129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Microorganisms resident in our bodies participate in a variety of regulatory and pathogenic processes. Here, we describe how etiological pathways implicated in Alzheimer's disease (AD) may be regulated or disturbed by symbiotic microbial activity. Furthermore, the composition of symbiotic microbes has changed dramatically across human history alongside the rise of agriculturalism, industrialization, and globalization. We postulate that each of these lifestyle transitions engendered progressive depletion of microbial diversity and enhancement of virulence, thereby enhancing AD risk pathways. It is likely that the human life span extended into the eighth decade tens of thousands of years ago, yet little is known about premodern geriatric epidemiology. We propose that microbiota of the gut, oral cavity, nasal cavity, and brain may modulate AD pathogenesis, and that changes in the microbial composition of these body regions across history suggest escalation of AD risk. Dysbiosis may promote immunoregulatory dysfunction due to inadequate education of the immune system, chronic inflammation, and epithelial barrier permeability. Subsequently, proinflammatory agents-and occasionally microbes-may infiltrate the brain and promote AD pathogenic processes. APOE genotypes appear to moderate the effect of dysbiosis on AD risk. Elucidating the effect of symbiotic microbiota on AD pathogenesis could contribute to basic and translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Fox
- Department of Anthropology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.,Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Delaney A Knorr
- Department of Anthropology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Kacey M Haptonstall
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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50
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Martin RM, Stallrich J, Bereman MS. Mixture designs to investigate adverse effects upon co-exposure to environmental cyanotoxins. Toxicology 2019; 421:74-83. [PMID: 31029734 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2019.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to implement powerful mixture design techniques, commonly used in process optimization, to investigate enhanced adverse effects upon co-exposure to environmental cyanotoxins. Exposure to cyanobacteria, which are found ubiquitously in environmental water reservoirs, have been linked to several neurodegenerative diseases. Despite the known co-occurrence of various cyanotoxins, the majority of studies investigating this link have focused on the investigation of a single cyanotoxin, a noncanonical amino acid called β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), which poorly recapitulates an actual environmental exposure. Interactions amongst cyanotoxic compounds is an area of great concern and remains poorly understood. To this end, we describe the use of a simplex axial mixture design to screen for interactive adverse effects of cyanotoxic mixtures. Using a combination of basic toxicity assays coupled with contemporary proteomic techniques, our results show the existence of a significant (p ≤ 0.01) interaction between BMAA and its isomers aminoethyl glycine (AEG) and 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (2,4DAB). Cyanotoxic mixtures significantly decreased cell viability by an average of 19% and increased caspases 3/7 activities by an average of 110% when compared to individual cyanotoxins (p ≤ 0.05). Cyanotoxic mixtures perturbed various biological pathways associated with neurodegeneration, including inhibition of protective autophagy and activation of mitochondrial dysfunction (z-score >|2|). Additionally, exposure to mixtures perturbed important upstream regulators involved in cellular dysfunction, morbidity, and development. Taken together, our results highlight: (1) the need to study combinations of cyanotoxins when investigating the link between cyanobacteria and neurodegenerative pathologies and (2) the application of design of experiment (DoE) as an efficient methodology to study mixtures of relevant environmental toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubia M Martin
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Jonathan Stallrich
- Department of Statistics, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Michael S Bereman
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States.
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