1
|
Jana A, Nath A, Sen P, Kundu S, Alghamdi BS, Abujamel TS, Saboor M, Woon-Khiong C, Alexiou A, Papadakis M, Alam MZ, Ashraf GM. Unraveling the Endocannabinoid System: Exploring Its Therapeutic Potential in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neuromolecular Med 2024; 26:20. [PMID: 38744725 PMCID: PMC11093854 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-024-08781-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The salient features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompass persistent difficulties in social communication, as well as the presence of restricted and repetitive facets of behavior, hobbies, or pursuits, which are often accompanied with cognitive limitations. Over the past few decades, a sizable number of studies have been conducted to enhance our understanding of the pathophysiology of ASD. Preclinical rat models have proven to be extremely valuable in simulating and analyzing the roles of a wide range of established environmental and genetic factors. Recent research has also demonstrated the significant involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the pathogenesis of several neuropsychiatric diseases, including ASD. In fact, the ECS has the potential to regulate a multitude of metabolic and cellular pathways associated with autism, including the immune system. Moreover, the ECS has emerged as a promising target for intervention with high predictive validity. Particularly noteworthy are resent preclinical studies in rodents, which describe the onset of ASD-like symptoms after various genetic or pharmacological interventions targeting the ECS, providing encouraging evidence for further exploration in this area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Jana
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117558, Singapore
| | - Arnab Nath
- Department of Developmental Biology and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560012, India
| | - Palash Sen
- School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal, 721302, India
| | - Swikriti Kundu
- Siksha Bhavana, Visva-Bharati University, Bolpur, West Bengal, 731235, India
| | - Badrah S Alghamdi
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physiology, Neuroscience Unit, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Turki S Abujamel
- Vaccines and Immunotherapy Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Saboor
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, and Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Chan Woon-Khiong
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117558, Singapore
| | - Athanasios Alexiou
- University Centre for Research & Development, Chandigarh University, Chandigarh-Ludhiana Highway, Mohali, Punjab, India
- Department of Research & Development, Funogen, Athens, Greece
- Department of Research & Development, AFNP Med, 1030, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Science and Engineering, Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Hebersham, NSW, 2770, Australia
| | - Marios Papadakis
- Department of Surgery II, University Hospital Witten-Herdecke, University of Witten-Herdecke, Heusnerstrasse 40, 42283, Wuppertal, Germany.
| | - Mohammad Zubair Alam
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghulam Md Ashraf
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, and Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Proske M, Janowski R, Bacher S, Kang HS, Monecke T, Koehler T, Hutten S, Tretter J, Crois A, Molitor L, Varela-Rial A, Fino R, Donati E, De Fabritiis G, Dormann D, Sattler M, Niessing D. PURA syndrome-causing mutations impair PUR-domain integrity and affect P-body association. eLife 2024; 13:RP93561. [PMID: 38655849 PMCID: PMC11042805 DOI: 10.7554/elife.93561] [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] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the human PURA gene cause the neurodevelopmental PURA syndrome. In contrast to several other monogenetic disorders, almost all reported mutations in this nucleic acid-binding protein result in the full disease penetrance. In this study, we observed that patient mutations across PURA impair its previously reported co-localization with processing bodies. These mutations either destroyed the folding integrity, RNA binding, or dimerization of PURA. We also solved the crystal structures of the N- and C-terminal PUR domains of human PURA and combined them with molecular dynamics simulations and nuclear magnetic resonance measurements. The observed unusually high dynamics and structural promiscuity of PURA indicated that this protein is particularly susceptible to mutations impairing its structural integrity. It offers an explanation why even conservative mutations across PURA result in the full penetrance of symptoms in patients with PURA syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcel Proske
- Institute of Structural Biology, Molecular Targets and Therapeutics Center, Helmholtz MunichNeuherbergGermany
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm UniversityUlmGermany
| | - Robert Janowski
- Institute of Structural Biology, Molecular Targets and Therapeutics Center, Helmholtz MunichNeuherbergGermany
| | - Sabrina Bacher
- Institute of Structural Biology, Molecular Targets and Therapeutics Center, Helmholtz MunichNeuherbergGermany
| | - Hyun-Seo Kang
- Institute of Structural Biology, Molecular Targets and Therapeutics Center, Helmholtz MunichNeuherbergGermany
- Chemistry Department, Biomolecular NMR and Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich, Technical University of MunichMainzGermany
| | - Thomas Monecke
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm UniversityUlmGermany
| | - Tony Koehler
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm UniversityUlmGermany
| | - Saskia Hutten
- Biocenter, Institute of Molecular Physiology, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität (JGU)MainzGermany
| | - Jana Tretter
- Institute of Structural Biology, Molecular Targets and Therapeutics Center, Helmholtz MunichNeuherbergGermany
| | - Anna Crois
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm UniversityUlmGermany
| | - Lena Molitor
- Institute of Structural Biology, Molecular Targets and Therapeutics Center, Helmholtz MunichNeuherbergGermany
| | | | | | | | | | - Dorothee Dormann
- Biocenter, Institute of Molecular Physiology, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität (JGU)MainzGermany
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB)MainzGermany
| | - Michael Sattler
- Institute of Structural Biology, Molecular Targets and Therapeutics Center, Helmholtz MunichNeuherbergGermany
- Chemistry Department, Biomolecular NMR and Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich, Technical University of MunichMainzGermany
| | - Dierk Niessing
- Institute of Structural Biology, Molecular Targets and Therapeutics Center, Helmholtz MunichNeuherbergGermany
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm UniversityUlmGermany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Guida N, Serani A, Sanguigno L, Mascolo L, Cuomo O, Fioriniello S, Marano D, Ragione FD, Anzilotti S, Brancaccio P, Molinaro P, Pignataro G, Annunziato L, Formisano L. Stroke Causes DNA Methylation at Ncx1 Heart Promoter in the Brain Via DNMT1/MeCP2/REST Epigenetic Complex. J Am Heart Assoc 2024; 13:e030460. [PMID: 38456444 PMCID: PMC11010005 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.030460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND REST (Repressor-Element 1 [RE1]-silencing transcription factor) inhibits Na+/Ca2+exchanger-1 (Ncx1) transcription in neurons through the binding of RE1 site on brain promoter (Br) after stroke. We identified a new putative RE1 site in Ncx1 heart promoter (Ht) sequence (Ht-RE1) that participates in neuronal Ncx1 transcription. Because REST recruits DNA-methyltransferase-1 (DNMT1) and MeCP2 (methyl-CpG binding protein 2) on different neuronal genes, we investigated the role of this complex in Ncx1 transcriptional regulation after stroke. METHODS AND RESULTS Luciferase experiments performed in SH-SY5Y cells demonstrated that Br activity was selectively decreased by REST, whereas Ht activity was reduced by DNMT1, MeCP2, and REST. Notably, site-direct mutagenesis of Ht-RE1 prevented REST-dependent downregulation of Ncx1. Furthermore, in temporoparietal cortex of 8-week-old male wild-type mice (C57BL/6) subjected to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion, DNMT1, MeCP2, and REST binding to Ht promoter was increased, with a consequent DNA promoter hypermethylation. Intracerebroventricular injection of siREST prevented DNMT1/MeCP2 binding to Ht and Ncx1 downregulation, thus causing a reduction in stroke-induced damage. Consistently, in cortical neurons subjected to oxygen and glucose deprivation plus reoxygenation Ncx1 knockdown counteracted neuronal protection induced by the demethylating agent 5-azacytidine. For comparisons between 2 experimental groups, Student's t test was used, whereas for more than 2 experimental groups, 1-way ANOVA was used, followed by Tukey or Newman Keuls. Statistical significance was set at P<0.05. CONCLUSIONS If the results of this study are confirmed in humans, it could be asserted that DNMT1/MeCP2/REST complex disruption could be a new pharmacological strategy to reduce DNA methylation of Ht in the brain, ameliorating stroke damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natascia Guida
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine“Federico II” University of NaplesNaplesItaly
| | - Angelo Serani
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine“Federico II” University of NaplesNaplesItaly
| | - Luca Sanguigno
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine“Federico II” University of NaplesNaplesItaly
| | - Luigi Mascolo
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine“Federico II” University of NaplesNaplesItaly
| | - Ornella Cuomo
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine“Federico II” University of NaplesNaplesItaly
| | - Salvatore Fioriniello
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso"National Research Council of ItalyNapoliItaly
| | - Domenico Marano
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso"National Research Council of ItalyNapoliItaly
| | - Floriana Della Ragione
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso"National Research Council of ItalyNapoliItaly
| | | | - Paola Brancaccio
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine“Federico II” University of NaplesNaplesItaly
| | - Pasquale Molinaro
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine“Federico II” University of NaplesNaplesItaly
| | - Giuseppe Pignataro
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine“Federico II” University of NaplesNaplesItaly
| | | | - Luigi Formisano
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine“Federico II” University of NaplesNaplesItaly
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Severino L, Kim J, Nam MH, McHugh TJ. From synapses to circuits: What mouse models have taught us about how autism spectrum disorder impacts hippocampal function. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 158:105559. [PMID: 38246230 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105559] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts a variety of cognitive and behavioral domains. While a genetic component of ASD has been well-established, none of the numerous syndromic genes identified in humans accounts for more than 1% of the clinical patients. Due to this large number of target genes, numerous mouse models of the disorder have been generated. However, the focus on distinct brain circuits, behavioral phenotypes and diverse experimental approaches has made it difficult to synthesize the overwhelming number of model animal studies into concrete throughlines that connect the data across levels of investigation. Here we chose to focus on one circuit, the hippocampus, and one hypothesis, a shift in excitatory/inhibitory balance, to examine, from the level of the tripartite synapse up to the level of in vivo circuit activity, the key commonalities across disparate models that can illustrate a path towards a better mechanistic understanding of ASD's impact on hippocampal circuit function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leandra Severino
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, South Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST-School, University of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jinhyun Kim
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, South Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST-School, University of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Min-Ho Nam
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, South Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST-School, University of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Thomas J McHugh
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, South Korea; Laboratory for Circuit and Behavioral Physiology, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako-shi Saitama, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wu J, Hu Q, Rao X, Zhao H, Tang H, Wang Y. Gut microbiome and metabolic profiles of mouse model for MeCP2 duplication syndrome. Brain Res Bull 2024; 206:110862. [PMID: 38145758 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.110862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
The extra copy of the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCp2) gene causes MeCP2 duplication syndrome (MDS), a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by intellectual disability and autistic phenotypes. However, the disturbed microbiome and metabolic profiling underlying the autistic-like behavioral deficits of MDS are rarely investigated. Here we aimed to understand the contributions of microbiome disruption and associated metabolic alterations, especially the disturbed neurotransmitters in MDS employing a transgenic mouse model with MeCP2 overexpression. We analyzed metabolic profiles of plasma, urine, and cecum content and microbiome profiles by both 16 s RNA and shotgun metagenomics sequence technology. We found the decreased levels of Firmicutes and increased levels of Bacteroides in the single MeCP2 gene mutation autism-like mouse model, demonstrating the importance of the host genome in a selection of microbiome, leading to the heterogeneity characteristics of microbiome in MDS. Furthermore, the changed levels of several neurotransmitters (such as dopamine, taurine, and glutamate) implied the excitatory-inhibitory imbalance caused by the single gene mutation. Concurrently, a range of microbial metabolisms of aromatic amino acids (such as tryptophan and phenylalanine) were identified in different biological matrices obtained from MeCP2 transgenic mice. Our investigation revealed the importance of genetic variation in accounting for the differences in microbiomes and confirmed the bidirectional regulatory axis of microbiota-gut-brain in studying the role of microbiome on MDS, which could be useful in deeply understanding the microbiome-based treatment in this autistic-like disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junfang Wu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430000, China.
| | - Qingyu Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Human Phenome Institute, Metabonomics and Systems Biology Laboratory at Shanghai International Centre for Molecular Phenomics, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiaoping Rao
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Hongyang Zhao
- Department of Pediatrics, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250013, China
| | - Huiru Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Human Phenome Institute, Metabonomics and Systems Biology Laboratory at Shanghai International Centre for Molecular Phenomics, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yulan Wang
- Singapore Phenome Center, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Miranda-Lourenço C, Rosa J, Rei N, Belo RF, Lopes AL, Silva D, Vieira C, Magalhães-Cardoso T, Viais R, Correia-de-Sá P, Sebastião AM, Diógenes MJ. Adenosinergic System and BDNF Signaling Changes as a Cross-Sectional Feature of RTT: Characterization of Mecp2 Heterozygous Mouse Females. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16249. [PMID: 38003438 PMCID: PMC10671708 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett Syndrome is an X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder (RTT; OMIM#312750) associated to MECP2 mutations. MeCP2 dysfunction is seen as one cause for the deficiencies found in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling, since BDNF is one of the genes under MeCP2 jurisdiction. BDNF signaling is also dependent on the proper function of the adenosinergic system. Indeed, both BDNF signaling and the adenosinergic system are altered in Mecp2-null mice (Mecp2-/y), a representative model of severe manifestation of RTT. Considering that symptoms severity largely differs among RTT patients, we set out to investigate the BDNF and ADO signaling modifications in Mecp2 heterozygous female mice (Mecp2+/-) presenting a less severe phenotype. Symptomatic Mecp2+/- mice have lower BDNF levels in the cortex and hippocampus. This is accompanied by a loss of BDNF-induced facilitation of hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP), which could be restored upon selective activation of adenosine A2A receptors (A2AR). While no differences were observed in the amount of adenosine in the cortex and hippocampus of Mecp2+/- mice compared with healthy littermates, the density of the A1R and A2AR subtype receptors was, respectively, upregulated and downregulated in the hippocampus. Data suggest that significant changes in BDNF and adenosine signaling pathways are present in an RTT model with a milder disease phenotype: Mecp2+/- female animals. These features strengthen the theory that boosting adenosinergic activity may be a valid therapeutic strategy for RTT patients, regardless of their genetic penetrance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Miranda-Lourenço
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.M.-L.); (A.M.S.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Jéssica Rosa
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.M.-L.); (A.M.S.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Nádia Rei
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.M.-L.); (A.M.S.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Rita F. Belo
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.M.-L.); (A.M.S.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana Luísa Lopes
- Laboratório de Farmacologia e Neurobiologia/MedInUP, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar—Universidade do Porto (ICBAS-UP), 4050-313 Porto, Portugal (D.S.); (P.C.-d.-S.)
| | - Diogo Silva
- Laboratório de Farmacologia e Neurobiologia/MedInUP, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar—Universidade do Porto (ICBAS-UP), 4050-313 Porto, Portugal (D.S.); (P.C.-d.-S.)
| | - Cátia Vieira
- Laboratório de Farmacologia e Neurobiologia/MedInUP, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar—Universidade do Porto (ICBAS-UP), 4050-313 Porto, Portugal (D.S.); (P.C.-d.-S.)
| | - Teresa Magalhães-Cardoso
- Laboratório de Farmacologia e Neurobiologia/MedInUP, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar—Universidade do Porto (ICBAS-UP), 4050-313 Porto, Portugal (D.S.); (P.C.-d.-S.)
| | - Ricardo Viais
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.M.-L.); (A.M.S.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Paulo Correia-de-Sá
- Laboratório de Farmacologia e Neurobiologia/MedInUP, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar—Universidade do Porto (ICBAS-UP), 4050-313 Porto, Portugal (D.S.); (P.C.-d.-S.)
| | - Ana M. Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.M.-L.); (A.M.S.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria J. Diógenes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.M.-L.); (A.M.S.)
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Vilvarajan S, McDonald M, Douglas L, Newham J, Kirkland R, Tzannes G, Tay D, Christodoulou J, Thompson S, Ellaway C. Multidisciplinary Management of Rett Syndrome: Twenty Years' Experience. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1607. [PMID: 37628658 PMCID: PMC10454341 DOI: 10.3390/genes14081607] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last 20 years, the understanding and natural history of Rett syndrome has advanced, but to date no cure has emerged, with multidisciplinary management being symptomatic and supportive. This study provides a comprehensive review of the clinical features, comorbidities and multidisciplinary management of a well-characterized cohort of females with classical Rett syndrome. We aim to improve awareness and understanding of Rett syndrome amongst pediatricians, pediatric subspecialists and allied health professionals to enable early diagnosis and a streamlined enrolment approach for future clinical trials. Rett syndrome, a complex X-linked condition, affecting mainly females, is due to pathogenic variants of the MECP2 gene in most affected individuals. The Rett syndrome Multidisciplinary Management clinic at The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia, was established in 2000. This retrospective analysis of individuals who attended the clinic from 2000 to 2020 was performed to identify the incidence and predicted age of onset of Rett syndrome related comorbidities, disease progression and to review management principles. Data collected included age of Rett syndrome diagnosis, MECP2 genotype, clinical features and medical comorbidities, such as sleep disturbance, seizures, breathing irregularities, scoliosis, mobility, hand stereotypies, hand function, constipation, feeding ability, use of gastrostomy, communication skills, QTc prolongation, anthropometry, and bruxism. Analysis of 103 girls who fulfilled the clinical diagnostic criteria for classical Rett syndrome with a pathogenic variant of the MECP2 gene showed a median age of diagnosis of 3 years. The most frequent MECP2 variant was c.502 C>T.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lyndal Douglas
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Jessica Newham
- Department of Physiotherapy, Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Robyn Kirkland
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Gloria Tzannes
- Department of Speech Pathology, Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Diane Tay
- Department of Dentistry, Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - John Christodoulou
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Brain and Mitochondrial Research Group, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Susan Thompson
- Faculty of Medicine, Sydney University, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Genetic Metabolic Disorders Service, Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Carolyn Ellaway
- Faculty of Medicine, Sydney University, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Genetic Metabolic Disorders Service, Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Palmieri M, Pozzer D, Landsberger N. Advanced genetic therapies for the treatment of Rett syndrome: state of the art and future perspectives. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1172805. [PMID: 37304036 PMCID: PMC10248472 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1172805] [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: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Loss and gain of functions mutations in the X-linked MECP2 (methyl-CpG-binding protein 2) gene are responsible for a set of generally severe neurological disorders that can affect both genders. In particular, Mecp2 deficiency is mainly associated with Rett syndrome (RTT) in girls, while duplication of the MECP2 gene leads, mainly in boys, to the MECP2 duplication syndrome (MDS). No cure is currently available for MECP2 related disorders. However, several studies have reported that by re-expressing the wild-type gene is possible to restore defective phenotypes of Mecp2 null animals. This proof of principle endorsed many laboratories to search for novel therapeutic strategies to cure RTT. Besides pharmacological approaches aimed at modulating MeCP2-downstream pathways, genetic targeting of MECP2 or its transcript have been largely proposed. Remarkably, two studies focused on augmentative gene therapy were recently approved for clinical trials. Both use molecular strategies to well-control gene dosage. Notably, the recent development of genome editing technologies has opened an alternative way to specifically target MECP2 without altering its physiological levels. Other attractive approaches exclusively applicable for nonsense mutations are the translational read-through (TR) and t-RNA suppressor therapy. Reactivation of the MECP2 locus on the silent X chromosome represents another valid choice for the disease. In this article, we intend to review the most recent genetic interventions for the treatment of RTT, describing the current state of the art, and the related advantages and concerns. We will also discuss the possible application of other advanced therapies, based on molecular delivery through nanoparticles, already proposed for other neurological disorders but still not tested in RTT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Palmieri
- Rett Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Hospital (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Diego Pozzer
- Rett Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Hospital (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Landsberger
- Rett Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Hospital (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Carli S, Chaabane L, De Rocco G, Albizzati E, Sormonta I, Calligaro S, Bonizzi P, Frasca A, Landsberger N. A comprehensive longitudinal study of magnetic resonance imaging identifies novel features of the Mecp2 deficient mouse brain. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 180:106083. [PMID: 36931532 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106083] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder which represents the leading cause of severe incurable intellectual disability in females worldwide. The vast majority of RTT cases are caused by mutations in the X-linked MECP2 gene, and preclinical studies on RTT largely benefit from the use of mouse models of Mecp2, which present a broad spectrum of symptoms phenocopying those manifested by RTT patients. Neurons represent the core targets of the pathology; however, neuroanatomical abnormalities that regionally characterize the Mecp2 deficient mammalian brain remain ill-defined. Neuroimaging techniques, such as MRI and MRS, represent a key approach for assessing in vivo anatomic and metabolic changes in brain. Being non-invasive, these analyses also permit to investigate how the disease progresses over time through longitudinal studies. To foster the biological comprehension of RTT and identify useful biomarkers, we have performed a thorough in vivo longitudinal study of MRI and MRS in Mecp2 deficient mouse brains. Analyses were performed on both genders of two different mouse models of RTT, using an automatic atlas-based segmentation tool that permitted to obtain a detailed and unbiased description of the whole RTT mouse brain. We found that the most robust alteration of the RTT brain consists in an overall reduction of the brain volume. Accordingly, Mecp2 deficiency generally delays brain growth, eventually leading, in heterozygous older animals, to stagnation and/or contraction. Most but not all brain regions participate in the observed deficiency in brain size; similarly, the volumetric defect progresses diversely in different brain areas also depending on the specific Mecp2 genetic lesion and gender. Interestingly, in some regions volumetric defects anticipate overt symptoms, possibly revealing where the pathology originates and providing a useful biomarker for assessing drug efficacy in pre-clinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Carli
- Neuroscience Division, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan I-20132, Italy.
| | - Linda Chaabane
- Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE) and Experimental Imaging Center (CIS), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan I-20132, Italy.
| | - Giuseppina De Rocco
- Neuroscience Division, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan I-20132, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Segrate (Milan) I-20090, Italy.
| | - Elena Albizzati
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Segrate (Milan) I-20090, Italy.
| | - Irene Sormonta
- Neuroscience Division, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan I-20132, Italy.
| | - Stefano Calligaro
- Neuroscience Division, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan I-20132, Italy.
| | - Pietro Bonizzi
- Department of Advanced Computing Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Angelisa Frasca
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Segrate (Milan) I-20090, Italy.
| | - Nicoletta Landsberger
- Neuroscience Division, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan I-20132, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Segrate (Milan) I-20090, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sun H, Wu M, Wang M, Zhang X, Zhu J. The regulatory role of endoplasmic reticulum chaperone proteins in neurodevelopment. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1032607. [DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1032607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is the largest tubular reticular organelle spanning the cell. As the main site of protein synthesis, Ca2+ homeostasis maintenance and lipid metabolism, the ER plays a variety of essential roles in eukaryotic cells, with ER molecular chaperones participate in all these processes. In recent years, it has been reported that the abnormal expression of ER chaperones often leads to a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including abnormal neuronal migration, neuronal morphogenesis, and synaptic function. Neuronal development is a complex and precisely regulated process. Currently, the mechanism by which neural development is regulated at the ER level remains under investigation. Therefore, in this work, we reviewed the recent advances in the roles of ER chaperones in neural development and developmental disorders caused by the deficiency of these molecular chaperones.
Collapse
|
11
|
Germain ND, Chung WK, Sarmiere PD. RNA interference (RNAi)-based therapeutics for treatment of rare neurologic diseases. Mol Aspects Med 2022; 91:101148. [PMID: 36257857 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2022.101148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Advances in genome sequencing have greatly facilitated the identification of genomic variants underlying rare neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. Understanding the fundamental causes of rare monogenic disorders has made gene therapy a possible treatment approach for these conditions. RNA interference (RNAi) technologies such as small interfering RNA (siRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and short hairpin RNA (shRNA), and other oligonucleotide-based modalities such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are being developed as potential therapeutic approaches for manipulating expression of the genes that cause a variety of neurological diseases. Here, we offer a brief review of the mechanism of action of these RNAi approaches; provide deeper discussion of the advantages, challenges, and specific considerations related to the development of RNAi therapeutics for neurological disease; and highlight examples of rare neurological diseases for which RNAi therapeutics hold great promise.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noelle D Germain
- Ovid Therapeutics, Inc., 1460 Broadway, New York, NY, 10036, USA
| | - Wendy K Chung
- Departments of Pediatrics and Medicine, Columbia University, 1150 St. Nicholas Avenue, Room 620, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Tsujimura K, Shiohama T, Takahashi E. microRNA Biology on Brain Development and Neuroimaging Approach. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12101366. [PMID: 36291300 PMCID: PMC9599180 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12101366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Proper brain development requires the precise coordination and orchestration of various molecular and cellular processes and dysregulation of these processes can lead to neurological diseases. In the past decades, post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression has been shown to contribute to various aspects of brain development and function in the central nervous system. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), short non-coding RNAs, are emerging as crucial players in post-transcriptional gene regulation in a variety of tissues, such as the nervous system. In recent years, miRNAs have been implicated in multiple aspects of brain development, including neurogenesis, migration, axon and dendrite formation, and synaptogenesis. Moreover, altered expression and dysregulation of miRNAs have been linked to neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a powerful imaging technology to obtain high-quality, detailed structural and functional information from the brains of human and animal models in a non-invasive manner. Because the spatial expression patterns of miRNAs in the brain, unlike those of DNA and RNA, remain largely unknown, a whole-brain imaging approach using MRI may be useful in revealing biological and pathological information about the brain affected by miRNAs. In this review, we highlight recent advancements in the research of miRNA-mediated modulation of neuronal processes that are important for brain development and their involvement in disease pathogenesis. Also, we overview each MRI technique, and its technological considerations, and discuss the applications of MRI techniques in miRNA research. This review aims to link miRNA biological study with MRI analytical technology and deepen our understanding of how miRNAs impact brain development and pathology of neurological diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keita Tsujimura
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
- Group of Brain Function and Development, Nagoya University Neuroscience Institute of the Graduate School of Science, Nagoya 4648602, Japan
- Research Unit for Developmental Disorders, Institute for Advanced Research, Nagoya University, Nagoya 4648602, Japan
- Correspondence: (K.T.); (E.T.)
| | - Tadashi Shiohama
- Department of Pediatrics, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba 2608677, Japan
| | - Emi Takahashi
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
- Correspondence: (K.T.); (E.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Tanas JK, Kerr DD, Wang L, Rai A, Wallaard I, Elgersma Y, Sidorov MS. Multidimensional analysis of behavior predicts genotype with high accuracy in a mouse model of Angelman syndrome. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:426. [PMID: 36192373 PMCID: PMC9529912 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-02206-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Angelman syndrome (AS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by loss of expression of the maternal copy of the UBE3A gene. Individuals with AS have a multifaceted behavioral phenotype consisting of deficits in motor function, epilepsy, cognitive impairment, sleep abnormalities, as well as other comorbidities. Effectively modeling this behavioral profile and measuring behavioral improvement will be crucial for the success of ongoing and future clinical trials. Foundational studies have defined an array of behavioral phenotypes in the AS mouse model. However, no single behavioral test is able to fully capture the complex nature of AS-in mice, or in children. We performed multidimensional analysis (principal component analysis + k-means clustering) to quantify the performance of AS model mice (n = 148) and wild-type littermates (n = 138) across eight behavioral domains. This approach correctly predicted the genotype of mice based on their behavioral profile with ~95% accuracy, and remained effective with reasonable sample sizes (n = ~12-15). Multidimensional analysis was effective using different combinations of behavioral inputs and was able to detect behavioral improvement as a function of treatment in AS model mice. Overall, multidimensional behavioral analysis provides a tool for evaluating the effectiveness of preclinical treatments for AS. Multidimensional analysis of behavior may also be applied to rodent models of related neurodevelopmental disorders, and may be particularly valuable for disorders where individual behavioral tests are less reliable than in AS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph K. Tanas
- grid.239560.b0000 0004 0482 1586Center for Neuroscience Research, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC USA
| | - Devante D. Kerr
- grid.239560.b0000 0004 0482 1586Center for Neuroscience Research, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC USA ,grid.257127.40000 0001 0547 4545Howard University, Washington, DC USA
| | - Li Wang
- grid.239560.b0000 0004 0482 1586Center for Neuroscience Research, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC USA
| | - Anika Rai
- grid.239560.b0000 0004 0482 1586Center for Neuroscience Research, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC USA
| | - Ilse Wallaard
- grid.5645.2000000040459992XDepartment of Clinical Genetics and the ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ype Elgersma
- grid.5645.2000000040459992XDepartment of Clinical Genetics and the ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Michael S. Sidorov
- grid.239560.b0000 0004 0482 1586Center for Neuroscience Research, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC USA ,grid.253615.60000 0004 1936 9510Departments of Pediatrics and Pharmacology & Physiology, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zaro C, Harris H, Sideridis G, Barbaresi W, Harstad E. Description of Clinician-Diagnosed Regression at Time of Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis in Toddlers. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2022; 43:377-385. [PMID: 35358102 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000001080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Previous studies have reported varying rates of regression in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We sought to (1) determine the rate of clinician-diagnosed regression for young children with ASD and (2) compare developmental functioning and ASD symptoms of children with versus without regression. METHODS We conducted a retrospective chart review of toddlers (age 18-36 months) with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual-5 ASD. We abstracted cognitive, language, adaptive, and motor functioning standard scores and ASD core symptoms. Regression was defined as "clinician-diagnosed regression accompanied by recommendation for a medical workup." We used propensity scores to match each participant with regression (n = 20) one-to-one with a participant without regression (n = 20). We compared the groups on developmental scores using independent sample t tests and on core ASD symptoms using Pearson's χ 2 test. RESULTS Of the 500 children with ASD, n = 20 (4%) had regression (defined above). Children with regression had lower Bayley cognitive and language scores and lower Vineland adaptive scores compared with those without regression (cognitive: 78.0 vs 85.5, p < 0.05; language: 56.9 vs 68.2, p < 0.01; adaptive: 70.0 vs 80.3; p < 0.01). There was no difference in motor scores across groups. There were no significant differences in the frequency of exhibiting core ASD symptoms for those with versus without regression. CONCLUSION In this clinical sample of children with ASD, regression was diagnosed in a small percentage (4%). Those with regression had lower cognitive, language, and adaptive skills compared with those without regression. Rates of clinician-diagnosed regression referred for medical workup are significantly lower than prior estimates based on parent report.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Zaro
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA; and
| | - Holly Harris
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College and Medicine and Meyer Center for Developmental Pediatrics, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX
| | - Georgios Sideridis
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA; and
| | - William Barbaresi
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA; and
| | - Elizabeth Harstad
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA; and
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Baroncelli L, Auel S, Rinne L, Schuster AK, Brand V, Kempkes B, Dietrich K, Müller M. Oral Feeding of an Antioxidant Cocktail as a Therapeutic Strategy in a Mouse Model of Rett Syndrome: Merits and Limitations of Long-Term Treatment. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11071406. [PMID: 35883897 PMCID: PMC9311910 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11071406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder that typically arises from spontaneous germline mutations in the X-chromosomal methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene. For the first 6–18 months of life, the development of the mostly female patients appears normal. Subsequently, cognitive impairment, motor disturbances, hand stereotypies, epilepsy, and irregular breathing manifest, with previously learned skills being lost. Early mitochondrial impairment and a systemic oxidative burden are part of the complex pathogenesis, and contribute to disease progression. Accordingly, partial therapeutic merits of redox-stabilizing and antioxidant (AO) treatments were reported in RTT patients and Mecp2-mutant mice. Pursuing these findings, we conducted a full preclinical trial on male and female mice to define the therapeutic value of an orally administered AO cocktail composed of vitamin E, N-acetylcysteine, and α-lipoic acid. AO treatment ameliorated some of the microcephaly-related aspects. Moreover, the reduced growth, lowered blood glucose levels, and the hippocampal synaptic plasticity of Mecp2−/y mice improved. However, the first-time detected intensified oxidative DNA damage in Mecp2-mutant cortex persisted. The behavioral performance, breathing regularity, and life expectancy of Mecp2-mutant mice did not improve upon AO treatment. Long-term-treated Mecp2+/− mice eventually became obese. In conclusion, the AO cocktail ameliorated a subset of symptoms of the complex RTT-related phenotype, thereby further confirming the potential merits of AO-based pharmacotherapies. Yet, it also became evident that long-term AO treatment may lose efficacy and even aggravate the metabolic disturbances in RTT. This emphasizes the importance of a constantly well-balanced redox balance for systemic well-being.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Baroncelli
- Institut für Neuro- und Sinnesphysiologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Humboldtallee 23, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany; (L.B.); (S.A.); (L.R.); (A.-K.S.); (V.B.); (B.K.); (K.D.)
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council (CNR), via Giuseppe Moruzzi 1, I-56124 Pisa, Italy
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Viale del Tirreno 331, I-56128 Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefanie Auel
- Institut für Neuro- und Sinnesphysiologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Humboldtallee 23, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany; (L.B.); (S.A.); (L.R.); (A.-K.S.); (V.B.); (B.K.); (K.D.)
| | - Lena Rinne
- Institut für Neuro- und Sinnesphysiologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Humboldtallee 23, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany; (L.B.); (S.A.); (L.R.); (A.-K.S.); (V.B.); (B.K.); (K.D.)
| | - Ann-Kathrin Schuster
- Institut für Neuro- und Sinnesphysiologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Humboldtallee 23, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany; (L.B.); (S.A.); (L.R.); (A.-K.S.); (V.B.); (B.K.); (K.D.)
| | - Victoria Brand
- Institut für Neuro- und Sinnesphysiologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Humboldtallee 23, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany; (L.B.); (S.A.); (L.R.); (A.-K.S.); (V.B.); (B.K.); (K.D.)
| | - Belinda Kempkes
- Institut für Neuro- und Sinnesphysiologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Humboldtallee 23, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany; (L.B.); (S.A.); (L.R.); (A.-K.S.); (V.B.); (B.K.); (K.D.)
| | - Katharina Dietrich
- Institut für Neuro- und Sinnesphysiologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Humboldtallee 23, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany; (L.B.); (S.A.); (L.R.); (A.-K.S.); (V.B.); (B.K.); (K.D.)
| | - Michael Müller
- Institut für Neuro- und Sinnesphysiologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Humboldtallee 23, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany; (L.B.); (S.A.); (L.R.); (A.-K.S.); (V.B.); (B.K.); (K.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-551-39-22933
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Exploration of group II metabotropic glutamate receptor modulation in mouse models of Rett syndrome and MECP2 Duplication syndrome. Neuropharmacology 2022; 209:109022. [PMID: 35248529 PMCID: PMC8973998 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) and MECP2 Duplication syndrome (MDS) have opposing molecular origins in relation to expression and function of the transcriptional regulator Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2). Several clinical and preclinical phenotypes, however, are shared between these disorders. Modulation of MeCP2 levels has recently emerged as a potential treatment option for both of these diseases. However, toxicity concerns remain with these approaches. Here, we focus on pharmacologically modulating the group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGlu), mGlu2 and mGlu3, which are two downstream targets of MeCP2 that are bidirectionally affected in expression in RTT patients and mice (Mecp2Null/+) versus an MDS mouse model (MECP2Tg1/o). Mecp2Null/+ and MECP2Tg1/o animals also exhibit contrasting phenotypes in trace fear acquisition, a form of temporal associative learning and memory, with trace fear deficiency observed in Mecp2Null/+ mice and abnormally enhanced trace fear acquisition in MECP2Tg1/o animals. In Mecp2Null/+ mice, treatment with the mGlu2/3 agonist LY379268 reverses the deficit in trace fear acquisition, and mGlu2/3 antagonism with LY341495 normalizes the abnormal trace fear learning and memory phenotype in MECP2Tg1/o mice. Altogether, these data highlight the role of group II mGlu receptors in RTT and MDS and demonstrate that both mGlu2 and mGlu3 may be potential therapeutic targets for these disorders.
Collapse
|
17
|
Loers G, Kleene R, Girbes Minguez M, Schachner M. The Cell Adhesion Molecule L1 Interacts with Methyl CpG Binding Protein 2 via Its Intracellular Domain. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073554. [PMID: 35408913 PMCID: PMC8998178 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell adhesion molecule L1 regulates multiple cell functions, and L1 deficiency is linked to several neural diseases. Recently, we have identified methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) as a potential binding partner of the intracellular L1 domain. By ELISA we show here that L1's intracellular domain binds directly to MeCP2 via the sequence motif KDET. Proximity ligation assay with cultured cerebellar and cortical neurons suggests a close association between L1 and MeCP2 in nuclei of neurons. Immunoprecipitation using MeCP2 antibodies and nuclear mouse brain extracts indicates that MeCP2 interacts with an L1 fragment of ~55 kDa (L1-55). Proximity ligation assay indicates that metalloproteases, β-site of amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme (BACE1) and ɣ-secretase, are involved in the generation of L1-55. Reduction in MeCP2 expression by siRNA decreases L1-dependent neurite outgrowth from cultured cortical neurons as well as the migration of L1-expressing HEK293 cells. Moreover, L1 siRNA, MeCP2 siRNA, or a cell-penetrating KDET-containing L1 peptide leads to reduced levels of myocyte enhancer factor 2C (Mef2c) mRNA and protein in cortical neurons, suggesting that the MeCP2/L1 interaction regulates Mef2c expression. Altogether, the present findings indicate that the interaction of the novel fragment L1-55 with MeCP2 affects L1-dependent functions, such as neurite outgrowth and neuronal migration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Loers
- Zentrum für Molekulare Neurobiologie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (G.L.); (R.K.); (M.G.M.)
| | - Ralf Kleene
- Zentrum für Molekulare Neurobiologie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (G.L.); (R.K.); (M.G.M.)
| | - Maria Girbes Minguez
- Zentrum für Molekulare Neurobiologie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (G.L.); (R.K.); (M.G.M.)
| | - Melitta Schachner
- Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, 604 Allison Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-848-445-1780
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Tedesco M, Giannese F, Lazarević D, Giansanti V, Rosano D, Monzani S, Catalano I, Grassi E, Zanella ER, Botrugno OA, Morelli L, Panina Bordignon P, Caravagna G, Bertotti A, Martino G, Aldrighetti L, Pasqualato S, Trusolino L, Cittaro D, Tonon G. Chromatin Velocity reveals epigenetic dynamics by single-cell profiling of heterochromatin and euchromatin. Nat Biotechnol 2022; 40:235-244. [PMID: 34635836 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-021-01031-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Recent efforts have succeeded in surveying open chromatin at the single-cell level, but high-throughput, single-cell assessment of heterochromatin and its underlying genomic determinants remains challenging. We engineered a hybrid transposase including the chromodomain (CD) of the heterochromatin protein-1α (HP-1α), which is involved in heterochromatin assembly and maintenance through its binding to trimethylation of the lysine 9 on histone 3 (H3K9me3), and developed a single-cell method, single-cell genome and epigenome by transposases sequencing (scGET-seq), that, unlike single-cell assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with sequencing (scATAC-seq), comprehensively probes both open and closed chromatin and concomitantly records the underlying genomic sequences. We tested scGET-seq in cancer-derived organoids and human-derived xenograft (PDX) models and identified genetic events and plasticity-driven mechanisms contributing to cancer drug resistance. Next, building upon the differential enrichment of closed and open chromatin, we devised a method, Chromatin Velocity, that identifies the trajectories of epigenetic modifications at the single-cell level. Chromatin Velocity uncovered paths of epigenetic reorganization during stem cell reprogramming and identified key transcription factors driving these developmental processes. scGET-seq reveals the dynamics of genomic and epigenetic landscapes underlying any cellular processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Tedesco
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
- Functional Genomics of Cancer Unit, Division of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Dejan Lazarević
- Center for Omics Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Valentina Giansanti
- Center for Omics Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Institute, Milano, Italy
- Department of Informatics, Systems and Communication, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Dalia Rosano
- Functional Genomics of Cancer Unit, Division of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Silvia Monzani
- Biochemistry and Structural Biology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO, IRCCS European Institute of Oncology, Milano, Italy
| | - Irene Catalano
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino School of Medicine, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute FPO- IRCCS, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Elena Grassi
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino School of Medicine, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute FPO- IRCCS, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Oronza A Botrugno
- Functional Genomics of Cancer Unit, Division of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Leonardo Morelli
- Center for Omics Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Panina Bordignon
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milano, Italy
| | - Giulio Caravagna
- Department of Mathematics and Geosciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Andrea Bertotti
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino School of Medicine, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute FPO- IRCCS, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Gianvito Martino
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milano, Italy
| | - Luca Aldrighetti
- Hepatobiliary Surgery Division, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milano, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Pasqualato
- Biochemistry and Structural Biology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO, IRCCS European Institute of Oncology, Milano, Italy
| | - Livio Trusolino
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino School of Medicine, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute FPO- IRCCS, Candiolo, Torino, Italy
| | - Davide Cittaro
- Center for Omics Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Institute, Milano, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Tonon
- Functional Genomics of Cancer Unit, Division of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy.
- Center for Omics Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Institute, Milano, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wong DCS, Seinkmane E, Zeng A, Stangherlin A, Rzechorzek NM, Beale AD, Day J, Reed M, Peak‐Chew SY, Styles CT, Edgar RS, Putker M, O’Neill JS. CRYPTOCHROMES promote daily protein homeostasis. EMBO J 2022; 41:e108883. [PMID: 34842284 PMCID: PMC8724739 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2021108883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The daily organisation of most mammalian cellular functions is attributed to circadian regulation of clock-controlled protein expression, driven by daily cycles of CRYPTOCHROME-dependent transcriptional feedback repression. To test this, we used quantitative mass spectrometry to compare wild-type and CRY-deficient fibroblasts under constant conditions. In CRY-deficient cells, we found that temporal variation in protein, phosphopeptide, and K+ abundance was at least as great as wild-type controls. Most strikingly, the extent of temporal variation within either genotype was much smaller than overall differences in proteome composition between WT and CRY-deficient cells. This proteome imbalance in CRY-deficient cells and tissues was associated with increased susceptibility to proteotoxic stress, which impairs circadian robustness, and may contribute to the wide-ranging phenotypes of CRY-deficient mice. Rather than generating large-scale daily variation in proteome composition, we suggest it is plausible that the various transcriptional and post-translational functions of CRY proteins ultimately act to maintain protein and osmotic homeostasis against daily perturbation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aiwei Zeng
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular BiologyCambridgeUK
| | | | | | | | - Jason Day
- Department of Earth SciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Martin Reed
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular BiologyCambridgeUK
| | | | | | - Rachel S Edgar
- Department of Infectious DiseasesImperial CollegeLondonUK
| | - Marrit Putker
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular BiologyCambridgeUK
- Present address:
Crown BioscienceUtrechtthe Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Chen S, Xiong J, Chen B, Zhang C, Deng X, He F, Yang L, Chen C, Peng J, Yin F. Autism spectrum disorder and comorbid neurodevelopmental disorders (ASD-NDDs): Clinical and genetic profile of a pediatric cohort. Clin Chim Acta 2022; 524:179-186. [PMID: 34800434 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2021.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder, is featured by impaired social communication and restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests. ASD and comorbid neurodevelopmental disorders (ASD-NDDs), especially epilepsy and intellectual disability (ID)/global developmental delay (GDD) are frequently presented in genetic disorders. The aim of this study was to explore the clinical and genetic profile of ASD in combination with epilepsy or ID/GDD. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed the clinical characteristics, and genetic spectrum of pediatric patients presenting ASD-NDDs with proven genetic etiology. The pathogenicity of variants was conducted by molecular geneticists and clinicians complied with the guidelines of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG). RESULTS Among 154 patients with ASD-NDDs, 79 (51.3%) patients gained a genetic diagnosis. Most patients (78/79, 98.7%) had comorbid ID or GDD, and 49 (49/79, 62.0%) had comorbid epilepsy. The clinical characteristics of those 79 patients were varied. 87 genetic variants were found among the 79 pedigrees. Most of the involved genes have roles in gene expression regulation (GER) and neuronal communication (NC). Most genes have been proven to be ASD-related genes, and some of them were not reported to contribute to ASD previously. CONCLUSION We summarized the genetic and clinical profile of 79 ASD-NDDs patients with proven genetic etiology. The genetic spectrum of ASD was expanded, and we highlighted a novel possible ASD candidate gene PRTG.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shimeng Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Juan Xiong
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Baiyu Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Ciliu Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaolu Deng
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Fang He
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Lifen Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Peng
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Fei Yin
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Collins BE, Neul JL. Rett Syndrome and MECP2 Duplication Syndrome: Disorders of MeCP2 Dosage. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2022; 18:2813-2835. [PMID: 36471747 PMCID: PMC9719276 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s371483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused predominantly by loss-of-function mutations in the gene Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2), which encodes the MeCP2 protein. RTT is a MECP2-related disorder, along with MECP2 duplication syndrome (MDS), caused by gain-of-function duplications of MECP2. Nearly two decades of research have advanced our knowledge of MeCP2 function in health and disease. The following review will discuss MeCP2 protein function and its dysregulation in the MECP2-related disorders RTT and MDS. This will include a discussion of the genetic underpinnings of these disorders, specifically how sporadic X-chromosome mutations arise and manifest in specific populations. We will then review current diagnostic guidelines and clinical manifestations of RTT and MDS. Next, we will delve into MeCP2 biology, describing the dual landscapes of methylated DNA and its reader MeCP2 across the neuronal genome as well as the function of MeCP2 as a transcriptional modulator. Following this, we will outline common MECP2 mutations and genotype-phenotype correlations in both diseases, with particular focus on mutations associated with relatively mild disease in RTT. We will also summarize decades of disease modeling and resulting molecular, synaptic, and behavioral phenotypes associated with RTT and MDS. Finally, we list several therapeutics in the development pipeline for RTT and MDS and available evidence of their safety and efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bridget E Collins
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jeffrey L Neul
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Departments of Pediatrics, Pharmacology, and Special Education, Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abellán-Álvaro M, Stork O, Agustín-Pavón C, Santos M. MeCP2 haplodeficiency and early-life stress interaction on anxiety-like behavior in adolescent female mice. J Neurodev Disord 2021; 13:59. [PMID: 34895132 PMCID: PMC8903671 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-021-09409-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early-life stress can leave persistent epigenetic marks that may modulate vulnerability to psychiatric conditions later in life, including anxiety, depression and stress-related disorders. These are complex disorders with both environmental and genetic influences contributing to their etiology. Methyl-CpG Binding Protein 2 (MeCP2) has been attributed a key role in the control of neuronal activity-dependent gene expression and is a master regulator of experience-dependent epigenetic programming. Moreover, mutations in the MECP2 gene are the primary cause of Rett syndrome and, to a lesser extent, of a range of other major neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, we aim to study the interaction of MeCP2 with early-life stress in variables known to be affected by this environmental manipulation, namely anxiety-like behavior and activity of the underlying neural circuits. METHODS Using Mecp2 heterozygous and wild-type female mice we investigated the effects of the interaction of Mecp2 haplodeficiency with maternal separation later in life, by assessing anxiety-related behaviors and measuring concomitant c-FOS expression in stress- and anxiety-related brain regions of adolescent females. Moreover, arginine vasopressin and corticotropin-releasing hormone neurons of the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus were analyzed for neuronal activation. RESULTS In wild-type mice, maternal separation caused a reduction in anxiety-like behavior and in the activation of the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus, specifically in corticotropin-releasing hormone-positive cells, after the elevated plus maze. This effect of maternal separation was not observed in Mecp2 heterozygous females that per se show decreased anxiety-like behavior and concomitant decreased paraventricular nuclei activation. CONCLUSIONS Our data supports that MeCP2 is an essential component of HPA axis reprogramming and underlies the differential response to anxiogenic situations later in life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Abellán-Álvaro
- Unitat Mixta d'Investigació en Neuroanatomia Funcional, Departamento de Biologia Cel·lular, Biologia Funcional i Antropologia Física, Universitat de València, 46100 Burjassot, València, Spain
| | - Oliver Stork
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Neurobiology, Institute of Biology, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Carmen Agustín-Pavón
- Unitat Mixta d'Investigació en Neuroanatomia Funcional, Departamento de Biologia Cel·lular, Biologia Funcional i Antropologia Física, Universitat de València, 46100 Burjassot, València, Spain
| | - Mónica Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Loss of O-GlcNAcylation on MeCP2 at Threonine 203 Leads to Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Neurosci Bull 2021; 38:113-134. [PMID: 34773221 PMCID: PMC8821740 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-021-00784-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations of the X-linked methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene in humans are responsible for most cases of Rett syndrome (RTT), an X-linked progressive neurological disorder. While genome-wide screens in clinical trials have revealed several putative RTT-associated mutations in MECP2, their causal relevance regarding the functional regulation of MeCP2 at the etiologic sites at the protein level requires more evidence. In this study, we demonstrated that MeCP2 was dynamically modified by O-linked-β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) at threonine 203 (T203), an etiologic site in RTT patients. Disruption of the O-GlcNAcylation of MeCP2 specifically at T203 impaired dendrite development and spine maturation in cultured hippocampal neurons, and disrupted neuronal migration, dendritic spine morphogenesis, and caused dysfunction of synaptic transmission in the developing and juvenile mouse cerebral cortex. Mechanistically, genetic disruption of O-GlcNAcylation at T203 on MeCP2 decreased the neuronal activity-induced induction of Bdnf transcription. Our study highlights the critical role of MeCP2 T203 O-GlcNAcylation in neural development and synaptic transmission potentially via brain-derived neurotrophic factor.
Collapse
|
24
|
Autism-associated mutations in K V7 channels induce gating pore current. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2112666118. [PMID: 34728568 PMCID: PMC8609342 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2112666118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) adversely impacts >1% of children in the United States, causing social interaction deficits, repetitive behaviors, and communication disorders. Genetic analysis of ASD has advanced dramatically through genome sequencing, which has identified >500 genes with mutations in ASD. Mutations that alter arginine gating charges in the voltage sensor of the voltage-gated potassium (KV) channel KV7 (KCNQ) are among those frequently associated with ASD. We hypothesized that these gating charge mutations would induce gating pore current (also termed ω-current) by causing an ionic leak through the mutant voltage sensor. Unexpectedly, we found that wild-type KV7 conducts outward gating pore current through its native voltage sensor at positive membrane potentials, owing to a glutamine in the third gating charge position. In bacterial and human KV7 channels, gating charge mutations at the R1 and R2 positions cause inward gating pore current through the resting voltage sensor at negative membrane potentials, whereas mutation at R4 causes outward gating pore current through the activated voltage sensor at positive potentials. Remarkably, expression of the KV7.3/R2C ASD-associated mutation in vivo in midbrain dopamine neurons of mice disrupts action potential generation and repetitive firing. Overall, our results reveal native and mutant gating pore current in KV7 channels and implicate altered control of action potential generation by gating pore current through mutant KV7 channels as a potential pathogenic mechanism in autism.
Collapse
|
25
|
Jiang Y, Fu X, Zhang Y, Wang SF, Zhu H, Wang WK, Zhang L, Wu P, Wong CCL, Li J, Ma J, Guan JS, Huang Y, Hui J. Rett syndrome linked to defects in forming the MeCP2/Rbfox/LASR complex in mouse models. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5767. [PMID: 34599184 PMCID: PMC8486766 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26084-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe neurological disorder and a leading cause of intellectual disability in young females. RTT is mainly caused by mutations found in the X-linked gene encoding methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2). Despite extensive studies, the molecular mechanism underlying RTT pathogenesis is still poorly understood. Here, we report MeCP2 as a key subunit of a higher-order multiunit protein complex Rbfox/LASR. Defective MeCP2 in RTT mouse models disrupts the assembly of the MeCP2/Rbfox/LASR complex, leading to reduced binding of Rbfox proteins to target pre-mRNAs and aberrant splicing of Nrxns and Nlgn1 critical for synaptic plasticity. We further show that MeCP2 disease mutants display defective condensate properties and fail to promote phase-separated condensates with Rbfox proteins in vitro and in cultured cells. These data link an impaired function of MeCP2 with disease mutation in splicing control to its defective properties in mediating the higher-order assembly of the MeCP2/Rbfox/LASR complex. MeCP2 mutations can cause Rett syndrome, a severe childhood neurological disorder. Here the authors show that MeCP2 mediates the higher-order assembly of a large splicing complex Rbfox/LASR, which is disrupted in the mouse models of Rett syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 200031, Shanghai, China
| | - Xing Fu
- Shanghai Center for Plant Stress Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 201602, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuhan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Genetics and Development, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Plant Biology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, 200438, Shanghai, China.,Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200092, Shanghai, China
| | - Shen-Fei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 200031, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 200031, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Kang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 200031, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 200031, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Wu
- National Facility for Protein Science in Shanghai, Zhangjiang Lab, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 201210, Shanghai, China
| | - Catherine C L Wong
- National Facility for Protein Science in Shanghai, Zhangjiang Lab, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 201210, Shanghai, China.,Center for Precision Medicine Multi-Omics Research, Peking University Health Science Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, 100191, Beijing, China
| | - Jinsong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 200031, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinbiao Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Genetics and Development, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Plant Biology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, 200438, Shanghai, China
| | - Ji-Song Guan
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 201210, Shanghai, China.,Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 200031, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200092, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jingyi Hui
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 200031, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
WGCNA Identifies Translational and Proteasome-Ubiquitin Dysfunction in Rett Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189954. [PMID: 34576118 PMCID: PMC8465861 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett Syndrome (RTT) is an X linked neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene, resulting in severe cognitive and physical disabilities. Despite an apparent normal prenatal and postnatal development period, symptoms usually present around 6 to 18 months of age. Little is known about the consequences of MeCP2 deficiency at a molecular and cellular level before the onset of symptoms in neural cells, and subtle changes at this highly sensitive developmental stage may begin earlier than symptomatic manifestation. Recent transcriptomic studies of patient induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC)-differentiated neurons and brain organoids harbouring pathogenic mutations in MECP2, have unravelled new insights into the cellular and molecular changes caused by these mutations. Here we interrogated transcriptomic modifications in RTT patients using publicly available RNA-sequencing datasets of patient iPSCs harbouring pathogenic mutations and healthy control iPSCs by Weighted Gene Correlation Network Analysis (WGCNA). Preservation analysis identified core gene pathways involved in translation, ribosomal function, and ubiquitination perturbed in some MECP2 mutant iPSC lines. Furthermore, differential gene expression of the parental fibroblasts and iPSC-derived neurons revealed alterations in genes in the ubiquitination pathway and neurotransmission in fibroblasts and differentiated neurons respectively. These findings might suggest that global translational dysregulation and proteasome ubiquitin function in Rett syndrome begins in progenitor cells prior to lineage commitment and differentiation into neural cells.
Collapse
|
27
|
Carstens KE, Lustberg DJ, Shaughnessy EK, McCann KE, Alexander GM, Dudek SM. Perineuronal net degradation rescues CA2 plasticity in a mouse model of Rett syndrome. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:e137221. [PMID: 34228646 DOI: 10.1172/jci137221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Perineuronal nets (PNNs), a specialized form of extracellular matrix, are abnormal in the brains of people with Rett syndrome (RTT). We previously reported that PNNs function to restrict synaptic plasticity in hippocampal area CA2, which is unusually resistant to long-term potentiation (LTP) and has been linked to social learning in mice. Here we report that PNNs appear elevated in area CA2 of the hippocampus of an individual with RTT and that PNNs develop precociously and remain elevated in area CA2 of a mouse model of RTT (Mecp2-null). Further, we provide evidence that LTP could be induced at CA2 synapses prior to PNN maturation (postnatal day 8-11) in wild-type mice and that this window of plasticity was prematurely restricted at CA2 synapses in Mecp2-null mice. Degrading PNNs in Mecp2-null hippocampus was sufficient to rescue the premature disruption of CA2 plasticity. We identified several molecular targets that were altered in the developing Mecp2-null hippocampus that may explain aberrant PNNs and CA2 plasticity, and we discovered that CA2 PNNs are negatively regulated by neuronal activity. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that CA2 PNN development is regulated by Mecp2 and identify a window of hippocampal plasticity that is disrupted in a mouse model of RTT.
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by neurodevelopmental regression between 6 and 18 months of life and associated with multi-system comorbidities. Caused mainly by pathogenic variants in the MECP2 (methyl CpG binding protein 2) gene, it is the second leading genetic cause of intellectual disability in girls after Down syndrome. RTT affects not only neurological function but also a wide array of non-neurological organs. RTT-related disorders involve abnormalities of the respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, metabolic, skeletal, endocrine, muscular, and urinary systems and immune response. Here, we review the different aspects of RTT affecting the main peripheral groups of organs and sometimes occurring independently of nervous system defects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Borloz
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, U1251, Faculté de médecine Timone, 13385, Marseille, France
| | - Laurent Villard
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, U1251, Faculté de médecine Timone, 13385, Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Roux
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, U1251, Faculté de médecine Timone, 13385, Marseille, France
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Gallucci A, Patterson KC, Weit AR, Van Der Pol WJ, Dubois LG, Percy AK, Morrow CD, Campbell SL, Olsen ML. Microbial community changes in a female rat model of Rett syndrome. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 109:110259. [PMID: 33548354 PMCID: PMC8724884 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is an X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder that is predominantly caused by alterations of the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene. Disease severity and the presence of comorbidities such as gastrointestinal distress vary widely across affected individuals. The gut microbiome has been implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as a regulator of disease severity and gastrointestinal comorbidities. Although the gut microbiome has been previously characterized in humans with RTT compared to healthy controls, the impact of MECP2 mutation on the composition of the gut microbiome in animal models where the host and diet can be experimentally controlled remains to be elucidated. By evaluating the microbial community across postnatal development as behavioral symptoms appear and progress, we have identified microbial taxa that are differentially abundant across developmental timepoints in a zinc-finger nuclease rat model of RTT compared to WT. We have additionally identified p105 as a key translational timepoint. Lastly, we have demonstrated that fecal SCFA levels are not altered in RTT rats compared to WT rats across development. Overall, these results represent an important step in translational RTT research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Gallucci
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology Medicine and Health, Virginia Tech, Roanoke, VA 24014, United States of America; Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States of America
| | - K C Patterson
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1918 University Blvd., Birmingham, AL 35294, United States of America
| | - A R Weit
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Life Sciences Building Room 213, 970 Washington St. SW, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States of America
| | - W J Van Der Pol
- Biomedical Informatics, Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, United States of America
| | - L G Dubois
- Duke Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27708, United States of America
| | - A K Percy
- Department of Pediatrics, Neurology, Neurobiology, Genetics, and Psychology, Civitan International Research Center, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL 35233, United States of America
| | - C D Morrow
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1918 University Blvd., Birmingham, AL 35294, United States of America
| | - S L Campbell
- Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States of America.
| | - M L Olsen
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Life Sciences Building Room 213, 970 Washington St. SW, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
The int22h1/int22h2-Mediated Xq28 Duplication Syndrome: An Intersection between Neurodevelopment, Immunology, and Cancer. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12060860. [PMID: 34199727 PMCID: PMC8229372 DOI: 10.3390/genes12060860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The int22h1/int22h2-mediated Xq28 duplication syndrome is a rare X-linked intellectual disability syndrome (XLIDS) arising from a duplication of the segment between intron 22 homologous regions 1 and 2, on the q28 subregion of the X chromosome. The main clinical features of the syndrome include intellectual disability, neurobehavioral abnormalities, and dysmorphic facial features. Due to the X-linked nature of the syndrome, affected males exhibit more severe phenotypes compared with heterozygous females. A unique distinguishing feature of the syndrome across the sexes, however, is a peculiar combination of recurrent sinopulmonary infections and atopy exclusively seen in a subset of affected males. In addition to the ‘typical’ 0.5 Mb duplication detected in most cases reported to date with the syndrome, a shortened centromeric version, and another 0.2 Mb telomerically shifted one, have been recently identified, with most detected duplications being maternally inherited, except for three recent cases found to have de novo duplications. Interestingly, a recently reported case of an affected male suggests a possible association of the syndrome with multiple malignancies, an observation that has been recently replicated in two pediatric patients. As a result, a better understanding of the pathogenesis of int22h1/int22h2-mediated Xq28 duplication syndrome may grant us a better understanding of the sex-specific differences in immunological responses, as well as the potential role of the genes involved by the duplication, in oncogenesis.
Collapse
|
31
|
Collins BE, Merritt JK, Erickson KR, Neul JL. Safety and efficacy of genetic MECP2 supplementation in the R294X mouse model of Rett syndrome. GENES, BRAIN, AND BEHAVIOR 2021; 21:e12739. [PMID: 33942492 PMCID: PMC8563491 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Rett syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused predominantly by loss-of-function mutations in MECP2, encoding transcriptional modulator methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2). Although no disease-modifying therapies exist at this time, some proposed therapeutic strategies aim to supplement the mutant allele with a wild-type allele producing typical levels of functional MeCP2, such as gene therapy. Because MECP2 is a dosage-sensitive gene, with both loss and gain of function causing disease, these approaches must achieve a narrow therapeutic window to be both safe and effective. While MeCP2 supplementation rescues RTT-like phenotypes in mouse models, the tolerable threshold of MeCP2 is not clear, particularly for partial loss-of-function mutations. We assessed the safety of genetically supplementing full-length human MeCP2 in the context of the R294X allele, a common partial loss-of-function mutation retaining DNA-binding capacity. We assessed the potential for adverse effects from MeCP2 supplementation of a partial loss-of-function mutant and the potential for dominant negative interactions between mutant and full-length MeCP2. In male hemizygous R294X mice, MeCP2 supplementation rescued RTT-like behavioral phenotypes and did not elicit behavioral evidence of excess MeCP2. In female heterozygous R294X mice, RTT-specific phenotypes were similarly rescued. However, MeCP2 supplementation led to evidence of excess MeCP2 activity in a motor coordination assay, suggesting that the underlying motor circuitry is particularly sensitive to MeCP2 dosage in females. These results show that genetic supplementation of full-length MeCP2 is safe in males and largely so females. However, careful consideration of risk for adverse motor effects may be warranted for girls and women with RTT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jonathan K. Merritt
- Department of PediatricsVanderbilt University Medical CenterNashvilleTennesseeUSA
| | - Kirsty R. Erickson
- Department of PediatricsVanderbilt University Medical CenterNashvilleTennesseeUSA
| | - Jeffrey L. Neul
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Departments of Pediatrics, Pharmacology, and Special EducationVanderbilt University Medical Center and Vanderbilt UniversityNashvilleTennesseeUSA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Swahari V, Nakamura A, Hollville E, Stroud H, Simon JM, Ptacek TS, Beck MV, Flowers C, Guo J, Plestant C, Liang J, Kurtz CL, Kanke M, Hammond SM, He YW, Anton ES, Sethupathy P, Moy SS, Greenberg ME, Deshmukh M. MicroRNA-29 is an essential regulator of brain maturation through regulation of CH methylation. Cell Rep 2021; 35:108946. [PMID: 33826889 PMCID: PMC8103628 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.108946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Although embryonic brain development and neurodegeneration have received considerable attention, the events that govern postnatal brain maturation are less understood. Here, we identify the miR-29 family to be strikingly induced during the late stages of brain maturation. Brain maturation is associated with a transient, postnatal period of de novo non-CG (CH) DNA methylation mediated by DNMT3A. We examine whether an important function of miR-29 during brain maturation is to restrict the period of CH methylation via its targeting of Dnmt3a. Deletion of miR-29 in the brain, or knockin mutations preventing miR-29 to specifically target Dnmt3a, result in increased DNMT3A expression, higher CH methylation, and repression of genes associated with neuronal activity and neuropsychiatric disorders. These mouse models also develop neurological deficits and premature lethality. Our results identify an essential role for miR-29 in restricting CH methylation in the brain and illustrate the importance of CH methylation regulation for normal brain maturation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Swahari
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Ayumi Nakamura
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Neurobiology Curriculum, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Emilie Hollville
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Hume Stroud
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jeremy M Simon
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Travis S Ptacek
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Matthew V Beck
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Cornelius Flowers
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jiami Guo
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Jie Liang
- Department of Immunology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - C Lisa Kurtz
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Matt Kanke
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Scott M Hammond
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - You-Wen He
- Department of Immunology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - E S Anton
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Neurobiology Curriculum, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Praveen Sethupathy
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Sheryl S Moy
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Mohanish Deshmukh
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Neurobiology Curriculum, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Rett Syndrome: A Timely Review From Recognition to Current Clinical Approaches and Clinical Study Updates. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2021; 37:100881. [PMID: 33892852 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2021.100881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Since the discovery of the genetic basis of Rett syndrome in 1999, our understanding has grown considerably both in the scientific and the clinical realms. In the last two decades, we have learned about the far-reaching effects of the aberrant MeCP2 protein, the growing list of involved genetic factors, and the genotype-phenotype clinical expression of common MECP2 mutations. This knowledge has led to several basic science research and clinical trials, focusing specifically on emerging treatments of Rett syndrome. As the pathophysiology behind the disease is better understood, treatments aimed at specific molecular targets will become available for clinicians to improve the life of individuals with Rett syndrome.
Collapse
|
34
|
Molitor L, Bacher S, Burczyk S, Niessing D. The Molecular Function of PURA and Its Implications in Neurological Diseases. Front Genet 2021; 12:638217. [PMID: 33777106 PMCID: PMC7990775 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.638217] [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: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, genome-wide analyses of patients have resulted in the identification of a number of neurodevelopmental disorders. Several of them are caused by mutations in genes that encode for RNA-binding proteins. One of these genes is PURA, for which in 2014 mutations have been shown to cause the neurodevelopmental disorder PURA syndrome. Besides intellectual disability (ID), patients develop a variety of symptoms, including hypotonia, metabolic abnormalities as well as epileptic seizures. This review aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of research of the last 30 years on PURA and its recently discovered involvement in neuropathological abnormalities. Being a DNA- and RNA-binding protein, PURA has been implicated in transcriptional control as well as in cytoplasmic RNA localization. Molecular interactions are described and rated according to their validation state as physiological targets. This information will be put into perspective with available structural and biophysical insights on PURA’s molecular functions. Two different knock-out mouse models have been reported with partially contradicting observations. They are compared and put into context with cell biological observations and patient-derived information. In addition to PURA syndrome, the PURA protein has been found in pathological, RNA-containing foci of patients with the RNA-repeat expansion diseases such as fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)/fronto-temporal dementia (FTD) spectrum disorder. We discuss the potential role of PURA in these neurodegenerative disorders and existing evidence that PURA might act as a neuroprotective factor. In summary, this review aims at informing researchers as well as clinicians on our current knowledge of PURA’s molecular and cellular functions as well as its implications in very different neuronal disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lena Molitor
- Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München - German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Sabrina Bacher
- Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München - German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Sandra Burczyk
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Dierk Niessing
- Institute of Structural Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München - German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.,Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Imaizumi Y, Feil R. Emerging chromatin structural roles of the methyl-CpG binding protein MeCP2. Epigenomics 2021; 13:405-409. [PMID: 33685235 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2021-0053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yui Imaizumi
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of Montpellier (IGMM), Centre National de Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), 1919 route de Mende, 34293 Montpellier, France.,University of Montpellier, 163 rue Auguste Broussonnet, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Robert Feil
- Institute of Molecular Genetics of Montpellier (IGMM), Centre National de Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), 1919 route de Mende, 34293 Montpellier, France.,University of Montpellier, 163 rue Auguste Broussonnet, 34090 Montpellier, France
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Achilly NP, He LJ, Kim OA, Ohmae S, Wojaczynski GJ, Lin T, Sillitoe RV, Medina JF, Zoghbi HY. Deleting Mecp2 from the cerebellum rather than its neuronal subtypes causes a delay in motor learning in mice. eLife 2021; 10:64833. [PMID: 33494858 PMCID: PMC7837679 DOI: 10.7554/elife.64833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome is a devastating childhood neurological disorder caused by mutations in MECP2. Of the many symptoms, motor deterioration is a significant problem for patients. In mice, deleting Mecp2 from the cortex or basal ganglia causes motor dysfunction, hypoactivity, and tremor, which are abnormalities observed in patients. Little is known about the function of Mecp2 in the cerebellum, a brain region critical for motor function. Here we show that deleting Mecp2 from the cerebellum, but not from its neuronal subtypes, causes a delay in motor learning that is overcome by additional training. We observed irregular firing rates of Purkinje cells and altered heterochromatin architecture within the cerebellum of knockout mice. These findings demonstrate that the motor deficits present in Rett syndrome arise, in part, from cerebellar dysfunction. For Rett syndrome and other neurodevelopmental disorders, our results highlight the importance of understanding which brain regions contribute to disease phenotypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan P Achilly
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, United States.,Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States.,Medical Scientist Training Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| | - Ling-Jie He
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, United States.,Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| | - Olivia A Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| | - Shogo Ohmae
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| | | | - Tao Lin
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, United States.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| | - Roy V Sillitoe
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, United States.,Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States.,Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| | - Javier F Medina
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| | - Huda Y Zoghbi
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, United States.,Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States.,Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States.,Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Ehrhart F, Jacobsen A, Rigau M, Bosio M, Kaliyaperumal R, Laros JFJ, Willighagen EL, Valencia A, Roos M, Capella-Gutierrez S, Curfs LMG, Evelo CT. A catalogue of 863 Rett-syndrome-causing MECP2 mutations and lessons learned from data integration. Sci Data 2021; 8:10. [PMID: 33452270 PMCID: PMC7810705 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-020-00794-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare neurological disorder mostly caused by a genetic variation in MECP2. Making new MECP2 variants and the related phenotypes available provides data for better understanding of disease mechanisms and faster identification of variants for diagnosis. This is, however, currently hampered by the lack of interoperability between genotype-phenotype databases. Here, we demonstrate on the example of MECP2 in RTT that by making the genotype-phenotype data more Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable (FAIR), we can facilitate prioritization and analysis of variants. In total, 10,968 MECP2 variants were successfully integrated. Among these variants 863 unique confirmed RTT causing and 209 unique confirmed benign variants were found. This dataset was used for comparison of pathogenicity predicting tools, protein consequences, and identification of ambiguous variants. Prediction tools generally recognised the RTT causing and benign variants, however, there was a broad range of overlap Nineteen variants were identified that were annotated as both disease-causing and benign, suggesting that there are additional factors in these cases contributing to disease development. Measurement(s) | Rett syndrome • phenotype • MECP2 Gene | Technology Type(s) | digital curation • network analysis | Sample Characteristic - Organism | Homo sapiens |
Machine-accessible metadata file describing the reported data: 10.6084/m9.figshare.13359476
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Friederike Ehrhart
- Department of Bioinformatics - BiGCaT, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, MHeNS School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands. .,GKC - Rett Expertise Centre, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Annika Jacobsen
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Rigau
- Barcelona Supercomputing Centre (BSC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mattia Bosio
- Barcelona Supercomputing Centre (BSC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rajaram Kaliyaperumal
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen F J Laros
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Egon L Willighagen
- Department of Bioinformatics - BiGCaT, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, MHeNS School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Alfonso Valencia
- Barcelona Supercomputing Centre (BSC), Barcelona, Spain.,Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marco Roos
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Leopold M G Curfs
- GKC - Rett Expertise Centre, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Chris T Evelo
- Department of Bioinformatics - BiGCaT, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, MHeNS School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,GKC - Rett Expertise Centre, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Role of DNA Methyl-CpG-Binding Protein MeCP2 in Rett Syndrome Pathobiology and Mechanism of Disease. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11010075. [PMID: 33429932 PMCID: PMC7827577 DOI: 10.3390/biom11010075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett Syndrome (RTT) is a severe, rare, and progressive developmental disorder with patients displaying neurological regression and autism spectrum features. The affected individuals are primarily young females, and more than 95% of patients carry de novo mutation(s) in the Methyl-CpG-Binding Protein 2 (MECP2) gene. While the majority of RTT patients have MECP2 mutations (classical RTT), a small fraction of the patients (atypical RTT) may carry genetic mutations in other genes such as the cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) and FOXG1. Due to the neurological basis of RTT symptoms, MeCP2 function was originally studied in nerve cells (neurons). However, later research highlighted its importance in other cell types of the brain including glia. In this regard, scientists benefitted from modeling the disease using many different cellular systems and transgenic mice with loss- or gain-of-function mutations. Additionally, limited research in human postmortem brain tissues provided invaluable findings in RTT pathobiology and disease mechanism. MeCP2 expression in the brain is tightly regulated, and its altered expression leads to abnormal brain function, implicating MeCP2 in some cases of autism spectrum disorders. In certain disease conditions, MeCP2 homeostasis control is impaired, the regulation of which in rodents involves a regulatory microRNA (miR132) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Here, we will provide an overview of recent advances in understanding the underlying mechanism of disease in RTT and the associated genetic mutations in the MECP2 gene along with the pathobiology of the disease, the role of the two most studied protein variants (MeCP2E1 and MeCP2E2 isoforms), and the regulatory mechanisms that control MeCP2 homeostasis network in the brain, including BDNF and miR132.
Collapse
|
39
|
Delhaye S, Bardoni B. Role of phosphodiesterases in the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:4570-4582. [PMID: 33414502 PMCID: PMC8589663 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-020-00997-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are enzymes involved in the homeostasis of both cAMP and cGMP. They are members of a family of proteins that includes 11 subfamilies with different substrate specificities. Their main function is to catalyze the hydrolysis of cAMP, cGMP, or both. cAMP and cGMP are two key second messengers that modulate a wide array of intracellular processes and neurobehavioral functions, including memory and cognition. Even if these enzymes are present in all tissues, we focused on those PDEs that are expressed in the brain. We took into consideration genetic variants in patients affected by neurodevelopmental disorders, phenotypes of animal models, and pharmacological effects of PDE inhibitors, a class of drugs in rapid evolution and increasing application to brain disorders. Collectively, these data indicate the potential of PDE modulators to treat neurodevelopmental diseases characterized by learning and memory impairment, alteration of behaviors associated with depression, and deficits in social interaction. Indeed, clinical trials are in progress to treat patients with Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, depression, and autism spectrum disorders. Among the most recent results, the application of some PDE inhibitors (PDE2A, PDE3, PDE4/4D, and PDE10A) to treat neurodevelopmental diseases, including autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disability, is a significant advance, since no specific therapies are available for these disorders that have a large prevalence. In addition, to highlight the role of several PDEs in normal and pathological neurodevelopment, we focused here on the deregulation of cAMP and/or cGMP in Down Syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, Rett Syndrome, and intellectual disability associated with the CC2D1A gene.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Delhaye
- grid.429194.30000 0004 0638 0649Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS UMR7275, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, 06560 Valbonne, France
| | - Barbara Bardoni
- Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm, CNRS UMR7275, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, 06560, Valbonne, France.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Matagne V, Borloz E, Ehinger Y, Saidi L, Villard L, Roux JC. Severe offtarget effects following intravenous delivery of AAV9-MECP2 in a female mouse model of Rett syndrome. Neurobiol Dis 2020; 149:105235. [PMID: 33383186 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2020.105235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder that is primarily caused by mutations in the methyl CpG binding protein 2 gene (MECP2). RTT is the second most prevalent genetic cause of intellectual disability in girls, and there is currently no cure for the disease. We have previously shown that gene therapy using a self-complementary AAV9 viral vector expressing a codon-optimized Mecp2 version (AAV9-MCO) significantly improved symptoms and increased survival in male Mecp2-deficient mice. Here, we pursued our studies and investigated the safety and efficacy of long-term gene therapy in the genetically relevant RTT mouse model: the heterozygous (HET) Mecp2 deficient female mouse. These mice were injected with the AAV9-MCO vector through the tail vein and an array of behavioral tests was performed. At 16- and 30-weeks post-injection, this treatment was able to rescue apneas and improved the spontaneous locomotor deficits and circadian locomotor activity in Mecp2 HET mice treated with AAV9-MCO at a dose of 5 × 1011 vg/mouse. To examine whether a higher dose of vector could result in increased improvements, we injected Mecp2 HET mice with a higher MCO vector dose (1012 vg/mouse), which resulted in some severe, sometimes lethal, side effects. In order to confirm these effects, a new cohort of Mecp2 HET mice were administered increasing doses of MCO vector (1011, 5 × 1011 and 1012 vg/mouse). Again, two weeks after vector administration, some Mecp2 HET mice were found dead while others displayed severe side effects and had to be euthanized. These deleterious effects were not observed in Mecp2 HET mice injected with a high dose of AAV9-GFP and were directly proportionate to vector dosage (0, 23 or 54% mortality at an AAV9-MCO dose of 1011, 5 × 1011, 1012 vg/mouse, respectively), and no such lethality was observed in wild-type (WT) mice. In the Mecp2 HET mice treated with the high and medium AAV9-MCO doses, blood chemistry analysis and post-mortem histology showed liver damage with drastically elevated levels of liver transaminases and disorganized liver architecture. Apoptosis was confirmed by the presence of TUNEL- and cleaved-caspase 3-positive cells in the Mecp2 HET mice treated with the higher doses of AAV9-MCO. We then studied the involvement of the unfolded protein response (UPR) in triggering apoptosis since it can be activated by AAV vectors. Increased expression of the C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), one of UPR downstream effectors, was confirmed in Mecp2 HET mice after vector administration. The toxic reaction seen in some treated mice indicates that, although gene therapy for RTT improved breathing deficits observed in Mecp2 HET mice, further studies are needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms and caution must be exercised before similar attempts are undertaken in female Rett patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Matagne
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, U1251, Faculté de médecine Timone, 13385 Marseille, France
| | - Emilie Borloz
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, U1251, Faculté de médecine Timone, 13385 Marseille, France
| | - Yann Ehinger
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, U1251, Faculté de médecine Timone, 13385 Marseille, France
| | - Lydia Saidi
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, U1251, Faculté de médecine Timone, 13385 Marseille, France
| | - Laurent Villard
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, U1251, Faculté de médecine Timone, 13385 Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Roux
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, U1251, Faculté de médecine Timone, 13385 Marseille, France.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Arsenault J, Hooper AWM, Gholizadeh S, Kong T, Pacey LK, Koxhioni E, Niibori Y, Eubanks JH, Wang LY, Hampson DR. Interregulation between fragile X mental retardation protein and methyl CpG binding protein 2 in the mouse posterior cerebral cortex. Hum Mol Genet 2020; 29:3744-3756. [PMID: 33084871 PMCID: PMC7861017 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddaa226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Several X-linked neurodevelopmental disorders including Rett syndrome, induced by mutations in the MECP2 gene, and fragile X syndrome (FXS), caused by mutations in the FMR1 gene, share autism-related features. The mRNA coding for methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) has previously been identified as a substrate for the mRNA-binding protein, fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP), which is silenced in FXS. Here, we report a homeostatic relationship between these two key regulators of gene expression in mouse models of FXS (Fmr1 Knockout (KO)) and Rett syndrome (MeCP2 KO). We found that the level of MeCP2 protein in the cerebral cortex was elevated in Fmr1 KO mice, whereas MeCP2 KO mice displayed reduced levels of FMRP, implicating interplay between the activities of MeCP2 and FMRP. Indeed, knockdown of MeCP2 with short hairpin RNAs led to a reduction of FMRP in mouse Neuro2A and in human HEK-293 cells, suggesting a reciprocal coupling in the expression level of these two regulatory proteins. Intra-cerebroventricular injection of an adeno-associated viral vector coding for FMRP led to a concomitant reduction in MeCP2 expression in vivo and partially corrected locomotor hyperactivity. Additionally, the level of MeCP2 in the posterior cortex correlated with the severity of the hyperactive phenotype in Fmr1 KO mice. These results demonstrate that MeCP2 and FMRP operate within a previously undefined homeostatic relationship. Our findings also suggest that MeCP2 overexpression in Fmr1 KO mouse posterior cerebral cortex may contribute to the fragile X locomotor hyperactivity phenotype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason Arsenault
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.,Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Alexander W M Hooper
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Shervin Gholizadeh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Tian Kong
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.,Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Laura K Pacey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Enea Koxhioni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Yosuke Niibori
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - James H Eubanks
- Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.,Department of Surgery, Division of Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
| | - Lu-Yang Wang
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.,Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - David R Hampson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
MeCP2 Levels Regulate the 3D Structure of Heterochromatic Foci in Mouse Neurons. J Neurosci 2020; 40:8746-8766. [PMID: 33046553 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1281-19.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2019] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is a nuclear protein critical for normal brain function, and both depletion and overexpression of MeCP2 lead to severe neurodevelopmental disease, Rett syndrome (RTT) and MECP2 multiplication disorder, respectively. However, the molecular mechanism by which abnormal MeCP2 dosage causes neuronal dysfunction remains unclear. As MeCP2 expression is nearly equivalent to that of core histones and because it binds DNA throughout the genome, one possible function of MeCP2 is to regulate the 3D structure of chromatin. Here, to examine whether and how MeCP2 levels impact chromatin structure, we used high-resolution confocal and electron microscopy and examined heterochromatic foci of neurons in mice. Using models of RTT and MECP2 triplication syndrome, we found that the heterochromatin structure was significantly affected by the alteration in MeCP2 levels. Analysis of mice expressing either MeCP2-R270X or MeCP2-G273X, which have nonsense mutations in the upstream and downstream regions of the AT-hook 2 domain, respectively, showed that the magnitude of heterochromatin changes was tightly correlated with the phenotypic severity. Postnatal alteration in MeCP2 levels also induced significant changes in the heterochromatin structure, which underscored importance of correct MeCP2 dosage in mature neurons. Finally, functional analysis of MeCP2-overexpressing mice showed that the behavioral and transcriptomic alterations in these mice correlated significantly with the MeCP2 levels and occurred in parallel with the heterochromatin changes. Taken together, our findings demonstrate the essential role of MeCP2 in regulating the 3D structure of neuronal chromatin, which may serve as a potential mechanism that drives pathogenesis of MeCP2-related disorders.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Neuronal function is critically dependent on methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2), a nuclear protein abundantly expressed in neurons. The importance of MeCP2 is underscored by the severe childhood neurologic disorders, Rett syndrome (RTT) and MECP2 multiplication disorders, which are caused by depletion and overabundance of MeCP2, respectively. To clarify the molecular function of MeCP2 and to understand the pathogenesis of MECP2-related disorders, we performed detailed structural analyses of neuronal nuclei by using mouse models and high-resolution microscopy. We show that the level of MeCP2 critically regulates 3D structure of heterochromatic foci, and this is mediated in part by the AT-hook 2 domain of MeCP2. Our results demonstrate that one primary function of MeCP2 is to regulate chromatin structure.
Collapse
|
43
|
Baldassari S, Musante I, Iacomino M, Zara F, Salpietro V, Scudieri P. Brain Organoids as Model Systems for Genetic Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:590119. [PMID: 33154971 PMCID: PMC7586734 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.590119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are a group of disorders in which the development of the central nervous system (CNS) is disturbed, resulting in different neurological and neuropsychiatric features, such as impaired motor function, learning, language or non-verbal communication. Frequent comorbidities include epilepsy and movement disorders. Advances in DNA sequencing technologies revealed identifiable genetic causes in an increasingly large proportion of NDDs, highlighting the need of experimental approaches to investigate the defective genes and the molecular pathways implicated in abnormal brain development. However, targeted approaches to investigate specific molecular defects and their implications in human brain dysfunction are prevented by limited access to patient-derived brain tissues. In this context, advances of both stem cell technologies and genome editing strategies during the last decade led to the generation of three-dimensional (3D) in vitro-models of cerebral organoids, holding the potential to recapitulate precise stages of human brain development with the aim of personalized diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Recent progresses allowed to generate 3D-structures of both neuronal and non-neuronal cell types and develop either whole-brain or region-specific cerebral organoids in order to investigate in vitro key brain developmental processes, such as neuronal cell morphogenesis, migration and connectivity. In this review, we summarized emerging methodological approaches in the field of brain organoid technologies and their application to dissect disease mechanisms underlying an array of pediatric brain developmental disorders, with a particular focus on autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and epileptic encephalopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simona Baldassari
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCSS Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
| | - Ilaria Musante
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCSS Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Michele Iacomino
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCSS Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
| | - Federico Zara
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCSS Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Salpietro
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCSS Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paolo Scudieri
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCSS Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Zhang X, Lin JS, Spruyt K. Sleep problems in Rett syndrome animal models: A systematic review. J Neurosci Res 2020; 99:529-544. [PMID: 32985711 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Due to the discovery of Rett Syndrome (RTT) genetic mutations, animal models have been developed. Sleep research in RTT animal models may unravel novel neural mechanisms for this severe neurodevelopmental heritable rare disease. In this systematic literature review we summarize the findings on sleep research of 13 studies in animal models of RTT. We found disturbed efficacy and continuity of sleep in all genetically mutated models of mice, cynomolgus monkeys, and Drosophila. Models presented highly fragmented sleep with distinct differences in 24-hr sleep/wake cyclicity and circadian arrhythmicity. Overall, animal models mimic sleep complaints reported in individuals with RTT. However, contrary to human studies, in mutant mice, attenuated sleep delta waves, and sleep apneas in non-rapid eye movement sleep were reported. Future studies may focus on sleep structure and EEG alterations, potential central mechanisms involved in sleep fragmentation and the occurrence of sleep apnea across different sleep stages. Given that locomotor dysfunction is characteristic of individuals with RTT, studies may consider to integrate its potential impact on the behavioral analysis of sleep.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyan Zhang
- INSERM - School of Medicine, University Claude Bernard, Lyon, France
| | - Jian-Sheng Lin
- INSERM - School of Medicine, University Claude Bernard, Lyon, France
| | - Karen Spruyt
- INSERM - School of Medicine, University Claude Bernard, Lyon, France
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
High rate of HDR in gene editing of p.(Thr158Met) MECP2 mutational hotspot. Eur J Hum Genet 2020; 28:1231-1242. [PMID: 32332872 PMCID: PMC7609331 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-020-0624-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome is a progressive neurodevelopmental disorder which affects almost exclusively girls, caused by variants in MECP2 gene. Effective therapies for this devastating disorder are not yet available and the need for tight regulation of MECP2 expression for brain to properly function makes gene replacement therapy risky. For this reason, gene editing with CRISPR/Cas9 technology appears as a preferable option for the development of new therapies. To study the disease, we developed and characterized a human neuronal model obtained by genetic reprogramming of patient-derived primary fibroblasts into induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. This cellular model represents an important source for our studies, aiming to correct MECP2 variants in neurons which represent the primarily affected cell type. We engineered a gene editing toolkit composed by a two-plasmid system to correct a hotspot missense variant in MECP2, c.473 C > T (p.(Thr158Met)). The first construct expresses the variant-specific sgRNA and the Donor DNA along with a fluorescent reporter system. The second construct brings Cas9 and targets for auto-cleaving, to avoid long-term Cas9 expression. NGS analysis on sorted cells from four independent patients demonstrated an exceptionally high editing efficiency, with up to 80% of HDR and less than 1% of indels in all patients, outlining the relevant potentiality of the approach for Rett syndrome therapy.
Collapse
|
46
|
Javed S, Selliah T, Lee YJ, Huang WH. Dosage-sensitive genes in autism spectrum disorders: From neurobiology to therapy. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 118:538-567. [PMID: 32858083 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of heterogenous neurodevelopmental disorders affecting 1 in 59 children. Syndromic ASDs are commonly associated with chromosomal rearrangements or dosage imbalance involving a single gene. Many of these genes are dosage-sensitive and regulate transcription, protein homeostasis, and synaptic function in the brain. Despite vastly different molecular perturbations, syndromic ASDs share core symptoms including social dysfunction and repetitive behavior. However, each ASD subtype has a unique pathogenic mechanism and combination of comorbidities that require individual attention. We have learned a great deal about how these dosage-sensitive genes control brain development and behaviors from genetically-engineered mice. Here we describe the clinical features of eight monogenic neurodevelopmental disorders caused by dosage imbalance of four genes, as well as recent advances in using genetic mouse models to understand their pathogenic mechanisms and develop intervention strategies. We propose that applying newly developed quantitative molecular and neuroscience technologies will advance our understanding of the unique neurobiology of each disorder and enable the development of personalized therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sehrish Javed
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Tharushan Selliah
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Yu-Ju Lee
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Wei-Hsiang Huang
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Fluoxetine rescues rotarod motor deficits in Mecp2 heterozygous mouse model of Rett syndrome via brain serotonin. Neuropharmacology 2020; 176:108221. [PMID: 32652084 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2019] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Motor skill is a specific area of disability of Rett syndrome (RTT), a rare disorder occurring almost exclusively in girls, caused by loss-of-function mutations of the X-linked methyl-CpG-binding protein2 (MECP2) gene, encoding the MECP2 protein, a member of the methyl-CpG-binding domain nuclear proteins family. Brain 5-HT, which is defective in RTT patients and Mecp2 mutant mice, regulates motor circuits and SSRIs enhance motor skill learning and plasticity. In the present study, we used heterozygous (Het) Mecp2 female and Mecp2-null male mice to investigate whether fluoxetine, a SSRI with pleiotropic effects on neuronal circuits, rescues motor coordination deficits. Repeated administration of 10 mg/kg fluoxetine fully rescued rotarod deficit in Mecp2 Het mice regardless of age, route of administration or pre-training to rotarod. The motor improvement was confirmed in the beam walking test while no effect was observed in the hanging-wire test, suggesting a preferential action of fluoxetine on motor coordination. Citalopram mimicked the effects of fluoxetine, while the inhibition of 5-HT synthesis abolished the fluoxetine-induced improvement of motor coordination. Mecp2 null mice, which responded poorly to fluoxetine in the rotarod, showed reduced 5-HT synthesis in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus and striatum, and reduced efficacy of fluoxetine in raising extracellular 5-HT as compared to female mutants. No sex differences were observed in the ability of fluoxetine to desensitize 5-HT1A autoreceptors upon repeated administration. These findings indicate that fluoxetine rescues motor coordination in Mecp2 Het mice through its ability to enhance brain 5-HT and suggest that drugs enhancing 5-HT neurotransmission may have beneficial effects on motor symptoms of RTT.
Collapse
|
48
|
Yu ZX, Wang DY, Xu XH. Gene Editing to the Rescue: Reversal of Social Deficits Associated with MECP2 Duplication. Neurosci Bull 2020; 36:567-569. [PMID: 32472288 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-020-00522-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Xian Yu
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, Chinese Academy of Sciences Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.,Shanghai Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence Technology, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Dan-Yang Wang
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, Chinese Academy of Sciences Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.,University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.,Shanghai Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence Technology, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Xiao-Hong Xu
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, Chinese Academy of Sciences Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China. .,Shanghai Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence Technology, Shanghai, 200031, China.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Yang L, Han B, Zhang Z, Wang S, Bai Y, Zhang Y, Tang Y, Du L, Xu L, Wu F, Zuo L, Chen X, Lin Y, Liu K, Ye Q, Chen B, Li B, Tang T, Wang Y, Shen L, Wang G, Ju M, Yuan M, Jiang W, Zhang JH, Hu G, Wang J, Yao H. Extracellular Vesicle-Mediated Delivery of Circular RNA SCMH1 Promotes Functional Recovery in Rodent and Nonhuman Primate Ischemic Stroke Models. Circulation 2020; 142:556-574. [PMID: 32441115 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.120.045765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stroke is a leading cause of adult disability that can severely compromise the quality of life of patients, yet no effective medication currently exists to accelerate rehabilitation. A variety of circular RNA (circRNA) molecules are known to function in ischemic brain injury. Lentivirus-based expression systems have been widely used in basic studies of circRNAs, but safety issues with such delivery systems have limited exploration of the potential therapeutic roles for circRNAs. METHODS Circular RNA SCMH1 (circSCMH1) was screened from the plasma of patients with acute ischemic stroke by using circRNA microarrays. Engineered rabies virus glycoprotein-circSCMH1-extracellular vesicles were generated to selectively deliver circSCMH1 to the brain. Nissl staining was used to examine infarct size. Behavioral tasks were performed to evaluate motor functions in both rodent and nonhuman primate ischemic stroke models. Golgi staining and immunostaining were used to examine neuroplasticity and glial activation. Proteomic assays and RNA-sequencing data combined with transcriptional profiling were used to identify downstream targets of circSCMH1. RESULTS CircSCMH1 levels were significantly decreased in the plasma of patients with acute ischemic stroke, offering significant power in predicting stroke outcomes. The decreased levels of circSCMH1 were further confirmed in the plasma and peri-infarct cortex of photothrombotic stroke mice. Beyond demonstrating proof-of-concept for an RNA drug delivery technology, we observed that circSCMH1 treatment improved functional recovery after stroke in both mice and monkeys, and we discovered that circSCMH1 enhanced the neuronal plasticity and inhibited glial activation and peripheral immune cell infiltration. CircSCMH1 binds mechanistically to the transcription factor MeCP2 (methyl-CpG binding protein 2), thereby releasing repression of MeCP2 target gene transcription. CONCLUSIONS Rabies virus glycoprotein-circSCMH1-extracellular vesicles afford protection by promoting functional recovery in the rodent and the nonhuman primate ischemic stroke models. Our study presents a potentially widely applicable nucleotide drug delivery technology and demonstrates the basic mechanism of how circRNAs can be therapeutically exploited to improve poststroke outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine (L.Y., B.H., Y.B., Y.Z., Y.T., F.W., Q.Y., B.C., B.L., T.T., Y.W., L.S., G.W., M.J., H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bing Han
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine (L.Y., B.H., Y.B., Y.Z., Y.T., F.W., Q.Y., B.C., B.L., T.T., Y.W., L.S., G.W., M.J., H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhiting Zhang
- National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility) (Z.Z., L.D., L.X., Y.L., K.L., J.W.), Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, China (Z.Z., K.L.).,State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (Z.Z.)
| | - Shuguo Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliation Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China (S.W.)
| | - Ying Bai
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine (L.Y., B.H., Y.B., Y.Z., Y.T., F.W., Q.Y., B.C., B.L., T.T., Y.W., L.S., G.W., M.J., H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine (L.Y., B.H., Y.B., Y.Z., Y.T., F.W., Q.Y., B.C., B.L., T.T., Y.W., L.S., G.W., M.J., H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Tang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine (L.Y., B.H., Y.B., Y.Z., Y.T., F.W., Q.Y., B.C., B.L., T.T., Y.W., L.S., G.W., M.J., H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lingli Du
- National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility) (Z.Z., L.D., L.X., Y.L., K.L., J.W.), Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Ling Xu
- National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility) (Z.Z., L.D., L.X., Y.L., K.L., J.W.), Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Fangfang Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine (L.Y., B.H., Y.B., Y.Z., Y.T., F.W., Q.Y., B.C., B.L., T.T., Y.W., L.S., G.W., M.J., H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lei Zuo
- Department of Neurology of Affiliated ZhongDa Hospital, Institute of Neuropsychiatry of Southeast University (L.Z.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xufeng Chen
- Emergency Department, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, China (X.C.)
| | - Yu Lin
- National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility) (Z.Z., L.D., L.X., Y.L., K.L., J.W.), Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Kezhong Liu
- National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility) (Z.Z., L.D., L.X., Y.L., K.L., J.W.), Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Qingqing Ye
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine (L.Y., B.H., Y.B., Y.Z., Y.T., F.W., Q.Y., B.C., B.L., T.T., Y.W., L.S., G.W., M.J., H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Biling Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine (L.Y., B.H., Y.B., Y.Z., Y.T., F.W., Q.Y., B.C., B.L., T.T., Y.W., L.S., G.W., M.J., H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine (L.Y., B.H., Y.B., Y.Z., Y.T., F.W., Q.Y., B.C., B.L., T.T., Y.W., L.S., G.W., M.J., H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tianci Tang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine (L.Y., B.H., Y.B., Y.Z., Y.T., F.W., Q.Y., B.C., B.L., T.T., Y.W., L.S., G.W., M.J., H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine (L.Y., B.H., Y.B., Y.Z., Y.T., F.W., Q.Y., B.C., B.L., T.T., Y.W., L.S., G.W., M.J., H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ling Shen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine (L.Y., B.H., Y.B., Y.Z., Y.T., F.W., Q.Y., B.C., B.L., T.T., Y.W., L.S., G.W., M.J., H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guangtian Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine (L.Y., B.H., Y.B., Y.Z., Y.T., F.W., Q.Y., B.C., B.L., T.T., Y.W., L.S., G.W., M.J., H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Minzi Ju
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine (L.Y., B.H., Y.B., Y.Z., Y.T., F.W., Q.Y., B.C., B.L., T.T., Y.W., L.S., G.W., M.J., H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mengqin Yuan
- College of Automation Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing, China (M.Y., W.J.)
| | - Wei Jiang
- College of Automation Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing, China (M.Y., W.J.)
| | - John H Zhang
- Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, China (Z.Z., K.L.).,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA (J.H.Z.)
| | - Gang Hu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China (G.H.)
| | - Jianhong Wang
- National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility) (Z.Z., L.D., L.X., Y.L., K.L., J.W.), Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates (Kunming Primate Research Center) (J.W.), Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Science & Yunnan Province, (J.W.), Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases (J.W.), Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Honghong Yao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine (L.Y., B.H., Y.B., Y.Z., Y.T., F.W., Q.Y., B.C., B.L., T.T., Y.W., L.S., G.W., M.J., H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Institute of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease (H.Y.), Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China (H.Y.)
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Jdila MB, Triki CC, Ghorbel R, Bouchalla W, Ncir SB, Kamoun F, Fakhfakh F. Unusual double mutation in MECP2 and CDKL5 genes in Rett-like syndrome: Correlation with phenotype and genes expression. Clin Chim Acta 2020; 508:287-294. [PMID: 32445745 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2020.05.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neuro-developmental disorder affecting almost exclusively females and it divided into classical and atypical forms of the disease. RTT-like syndrome was also described and presents an overlapping phenotype of RTT. RTT-like syndrome has been associated with several genes including MECP2 and CDKL5 having common biological pathways and regulatory interactions especially during neural maturation and synaptogenesis. METHODS We report patient with Rett-like syndrome for whom clinical features and their progression guided toward the screening of two candidate genes MECP2 and CDKL5 by sequencing. Severity score was evaluated by "Rett Assessment Rating Scale" (R.A.R.S.). Predictions of pahogenicity and functional effects used several bioinformatic tools and qRT-PCR was conducted to evaluate gene expression. RESULTS Mutational screening revealed two mutations c.1065 C > A (p.S355R) in MECP2 gene and c.616 G > A (p.D206N) mutation in CDKL5 gene in the patient with a high R.A.R.S. Bioinformatic investigations predicted a moderate effect of p.S355R in MECP2 gene but a more pathogenic one of p.D206N mutation in CDKL5. Effect of c.616 G > A mutation on structure and stability of CDKL5 mRNA was confirmed by qRT-PCR. Additionally, analysis of gene expression revealed a drastic effect of CDKL5 mutant on its MeCP2 and Dnmt1 substrates and also on its MYCN regulator. CONCLUSIONS The co-existence of the two mutations in CDKL5 and MECP2 genes could explain the severe phenotype in our patient with RTT-Like and is consistent with the data related to the interactions of CDKL5 with MeCP2 and Dnmt1 proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marwa Ben Jdila
- Research Laboratory 'NeuroPédiatrie' (LR19ES15), Sfax Medical School, Sfax University, Tunisia; Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Genetics, Faculty of Science of Sfax, Sfax University, Tunisia.
| | - Chahnez Charfi Triki
- Research Laboratory 'NeuroPédiatrie' (LR19ES15), Sfax Medical School, Sfax University, Tunisia; Child Neurology Department, Hedi Chaker Universitary Hospital of Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Rania Ghorbel
- Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Genetics, Faculty of Science of Sfax, Sfax University, Tunisia
| | - Wafa Bouchalla
- Research Laboratory 'NeuroPédiatrie' (LR19ES15), Sfax Medical School, Sfax University, Tunisia; Child Neurology Department, Hedi Chaker Universitary Hospital of Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Sihem Ben Ncir
- Research Laboratory 'NeuroPédiatrie' (LR19ES15), Sfax Medical School, Sfax University, Tunisia; Child Neurology Department, Hedi Chaker Universitary Hospital of Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Fatma Kamoun
- Research Laboratory 'NeuroPédiatrie' (LR19ES15), Sfax Medical School, Sfax University, Tunisia; Child Neurology Department, Hedi Chaker Universitary Hospital of Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Faiza Fakhfakh
- Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Genetics, Faculty of Science of Sfax, Sfax University, Tunisia.
| |
Collapse
|