1
|
Aging Effects on Optic Nerve Neurodegeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032573. [PMID: 36768896 PMCID: PMC9917079 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Common risk factors for many ocular pathologies involve non-pathologic, age-related damage to the optic nerve. Understanding the mechanisms of age-related changes can facilitate targeted treatments for ocular pathologies that arise at any point in life. In this review, we examine these age-related, neurodegenerative changes in the optic nerve, contextualize these changes from the anatomic to the molecular level, and appreciate their relationship with ocular pathophysiology. From simple structural and mechanical changes at the optic nerve head (ONH), to epigenetic and biochemical alterations of tissue and the environment, multiple age-dependent mechanisms drive extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss, and lowered regenerative ability of respective axons. In conjunction, aging decreases the ability of myelin to preserve maximal conductivity, even with "successfully" regenerated axons. Glial cells, however, regeneratively overcompensate and result in a microenvironment that promotes RGC axonal death. Better elucidating optic nerve neurodegeneration remains of interest, specifically investigating human ECM, RGCs, axons, oligodendrocytes, and astrocytes; clarifying the exact processes of aged ocular connective tissue alterations and their ultrastructural impacts; and developing novel technologies and pharmacotherapies that target known genetic, biochemical, matrisome, and neuroinflammatory markers. Management models should account for age-related changes when addressing glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and other blinding diseases.
Collapse
|
2
|
Taylor MJ, Thompson AM, Alhajlah S, Tuxworth RI, Ahmed Z. Inhibition of Chk2 promotes neuroprotection, axon regeneration, and functional recovery after CNS injury. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabq2611. [PMID: 36103534 PMCID: PMC9473583 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abq2611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
DNA double-strand breaks occur in many acute and long-term neurological conditions, including neurodegeneration, neurotrauma, and stroke. Nonrepaired breaks chronically activate the DNA damage response in neurons, leading to neural dysfunction and apoptosis. Here, we show that targeting of the central ATM-Chk2 pathway regulating the response to double-strand breaks slows neural decline in Drosophila models of chronic neurodegeneration. Inhibitors of ATM-Chk2, but not the parallel ATR-Chk1 pathway, also promote marked, functional recovery after acute central nervous system injury in rats, suggesting that inhibiting nonhomologous end-joining rather than homologous recombination is crucial for neuroprotection. We demonstrate that the Chk2 inhibitor, prexasertib, which has been evaluated in phase 2 clinical trials for cancer, has potent neuroprotective effects and represents a new treatment option to promote functional recovery after spinal cord or optic nerve injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. Taylor
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Adam M. Thompson
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Sharif Alhajlah
- Applied Medical Science College, Shaqra University, Addawadmi, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Richard I. Tuxworth
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Zubair Ahmed
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- Centre for Trauma Sciences Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Human Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cell–Derived Extracellular Vesicles Enhance Neuroregeneration in a Rat Model of Sciatic Nerve Crush Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158583. [PMID: 35955732 PMCID: PMC9369448 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury remains a serious problem for medicine, with no effective method of treatment at the moment. The most prominent example of this problem is neonatal brachial plexus palsy, which results from the stretching of the brachial plexus nerves in the birth or perinatal period. Multipotent mesenchymal cells (MSCs) and the extracellular vesicles (EVs) they produce are known to have a marked neuroprotective effect in central nervous system injuries. We suggested that the use of MSCs-derived EVs may be an effective approach to the regeneration of peripheral nerves after injury. Sciatic nerve injury was modeled in rats via crushing, and then a gel containing MSCs–EVs was applied to the injured area. After 15 and 30 days, a histological, physiological, and functional assessment of nerve, dorsal root ganglia (DRG), and innervated muscles’ recovery was performed. Transplantation of EVs to the area of sciatic nerve injury significantly reduced muscle atrophy as compared to the control group. Functional recovery of the innervated muscles, as measured by the extensor postural thrust test, was revealed 30 days after the surgery. We associate the obtained results with EVs-induced neuroprotective mechanisms, which were expressed in a decrease in apoptotic neuronal death and an increase in regeneration-associated proteins NF-200 and GAP-43, as well as in DRG and damaged nerve. We suggest that the therapeutic scheme we used is efficient for the treatment of acute peripheral nervous system injuries and can be transferred to the clinics. However, additional studies are required for a more detailed analysis of neuroprotection mechanisms.
Collapse
|
4
|
Niu X, Jiao Z, Wang Z, Jiang A, Zhang X, Zhang H, Xue F. MiR-17-5p protects neonatal mice from hypoxic-ischemic brain damage by targeting Casp2. Neurosci Lett 2022; 772:136475. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2022.136475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
|
5
|
Gu X, Guo H, Zeng C, Liu Y. Identification and validation of MicroRNA-mRNA Networks in Dorsal Root Ganglia after Peripheral Nerve Injury. Int J Med Sci 2022; 19:1275-1289. [PMID: 35928719 PMCID: PMC9346390 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.73113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Changes in DRG after nerve injury involve neuronal damage, apoptosis, pain transmission, and activation of regenerative programs. It is unclear which genes and microRNAs may play a major role in this process. Therefore, this study performed a meta-analysis of previously published gene expression data to reveal the potential microRNA-mRNA network in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) after peripheral nerve injury. We searched 5 mRNA and 3 microRNA expression data sets, obtained 447 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 5 differentially expressed miRNAs, determined the biological pathways enriched by these DEGs, and further predicted new microRNA-mRNA interactions, such as miR-21/Hmg20a, miR-221/Ube2ql1, miR-30c-1/Rhoq, miR-500/Sema3c, and miR-551b/Cdc42se2. We verified these hub mRNA and miRNA in rats by qRT-PCR and found the results were consistent with the bioinformatics analysis. And we predicted transcription factors associated with these genes (gTFs) and TFs associated with these microRNAs (mTFs) and constructed the mTF-miRNA-gene-gTF regulatory network to further explore the molecular mechanism in DRG. Finally, we compared the DRG transcriptome after PNI to that of chronic constriction injury (CCI), and found that PNI caused greater damage to DRG compared to CCI. At the same time, the related mechanisms of pain caused by the two pathophysiological process may be different.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Gu
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China, 100044
| | - Hao Guo
- Department of Foot and Ankle Surgery, Center for Orthopaedic Surgery, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Orthopaedic Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Canjun Zeng
- Department of Foot and Ankle Surgery, Center for Orthopaedic Surgery, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Orthopaedic Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yijun Liu
- Department of Foot and Ankle Surgery, Center for Orthopaedic Surgery, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Orthopaedic Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Thomas CN, Bernardo-Colón A, Courtie E, Essex G, Rex TS, Blanch RJ, Ahmed Z. Effects of intravitreal injection of siRNA against caspase-2 on retinal and optic nerve degeneration in air blast induced ocular trauma. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16839. [PMID: 34413361 PMCID: PMC8377143 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96107-y] [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: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Ocular repeated air blast injuries occur from low overpressure blast wave exposure, which are often repeated and in quick succession. We have shown that caspase-2 caused the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGC) after blunt ocular trauma. Here, we investigated if caspase-2 also mediates RGC apoptosis in a mouse model of air blast induced indirect traumatic optic neuropathy (b-ITON). C57BL/6 mice were exposed to repeated blasts of overpressure air (3 × 2 × 15 psi) and intravitreal injections of siRNA against caspase-2 (siCASP2) or against a control enhanced green fluorescent protein (siEGFP) at either 5 h after the first 2 × 15 psi ("post-blast") or 48 h before the first blast exposure ("pre-blast") and repeated every 7 days. RGC counts were unaffected by the b-ITON or intravitreal injections, despite increased degenerating ON axons, even in siCASP2 "post-blast" injection groups. Degenerating ON axons remained at sham levels after b-ITON and intravitreal siCASP2 "pre-blast" injections, but with less degenerating axons in siCASP2 compared to siEGFP-treated eyes. Intravitreal injections "post-blast" caused greater vitreous inflammation, potentiated by siCASP2, with less in "pre-blast" injected eyes, which was abrogated by siCASP2. We conclude that intravitreal injection timing after ocular trauma induced variable retinal and ON pathology, undermining our candidate neuroprotective therapy, siCASP2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chloe N Thomas
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Ella Courtie
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Ophthalmology Department, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Gareth Essex
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Tonia S Rex
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Richard J Blanch
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
- Ophthalmology Department, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK.
- Academic Department of Military Surgery and Trauma, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham, UK.
- Centre for Trauma Sciences Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Zubair Ahmed
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
- Centre for Trauma Sciences Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Alhajlah S, Thompson AM, Ahmed Z. Overexpression of Reticulon 3 Enhances CNS Axon Regeneration and Functional Recovery after Traumatic Injury. Cells 2021; 10:2015. [PMID: 34440784 PMCID: PMC8395006 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
CNS neurons are generally incapable of regenerating their axons after injury due to several intrinsic and extrinsic factors, including the presence of axon growth inhibitory molecules. One such potent inhibitor of CNS axon regeneration is Reticulon (RTN) 4 or Nogo-A. Here, we focused on RTN3 as its contribution to CNS axon regeneration is currently unknown. We found that RTN3 expression correlated with an axon regenerative phenotype in dorsal root ganglion neurons (DRGN) after injury to the dorsal columns, a well-characterised model of spinal cord injury. Overexpression of RTN3 promoted disinhibited DRGN neurite outgrowth in vitro and dorsal column axon regeneration/sprouting and electrophysiological, sensory and locomotor functional recovery after injury in vivo. Knockdown of protrudin, however, ablated RTN3-enhanced neurite outgrowth/axon regeneration in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, overexpression of RTN3 in a second model of CNS injury, the optic nerve crush injury model, enhanced retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival, disinhibited neurite outgrowth in vitro and survival and axon regeneration in vivo, an effect that was also dependent on protrudin. These results demonstrate that RTN3 enhances neurite outgrowth/axon regeneration in a protrudin-dependent manner after both spinal cord and optic nerve injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharif Alhajlah
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (S.A.); (A.M.T.)
- Applied Medical Science College, Shaqra University, P.O. Box 1678, Ad-Dawadmi 11911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adam M Thompson
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (S.A.); (A.M.T.)
| | - Zubair Ahmed
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (S.A.); (A.M.T.)
- Centre for Trauma Sciences Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Davies AJ, Rinaldi S, Costigan M, Oh SB. Cytotoxic Immunity in Peripheral Nerve Injury and Pain. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:142. [PMID: 32153361 PMCID: PMC7047751 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytotoxicity and consequent cell death pathways are a critical component of the immune response to infection, disease or injury. While numerous examples of inflammation causing neuronal sensitization and pain have been described, there is a growing appreciation of the role of cytotoxic immunity in response to painful nerve injury. In this review we highlight the functions of cytotoxic immune effector cells, focusing in particular on natural killer (NK) cells, and describe the consequent action of these cells in the injured nerve as well as other chronic pain conditions and peripheral neuropathies. We describe how targeted delivery of cytotoxic factors via the immune synapse operates alongside Wallerian degeneration to allow local axon degeneration in the absence of cell death and is well-placed to support the restoration of homeostasis within the nerve. We also summarize the evidence for the expression of endogenous ligands and receptors on injured nerve targets and infiltrating immune cells that facilitate direct neuro-immune interactions, as well as modulation of the surrounding immune milieu. A number of chronic pain and peripheral neuropathies appear comorbid with a loss of function of cellular cytotoxicity suggesting such mechanisms may actually help to resolve neuropathic pain. Thus while the immune response to peripheral nerve injury is a major driver of maladaptive pain, it is simultaneously capable of directing resolution of injury in part through the pathways of cellular cytotoxicity. Our growing knowledge in tuning immune function away from inflammation toward recovery from nerve injury therefore holds promise for interventions aimed at preventing the transition from acute to chronic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J. Davies
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Rinaldi
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Costigan
- Department of Anesthesia, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Neurobiology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Seog Bae Oh
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
- Dental Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology & Physiology, School of Dentistry, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hasmatali JCD, De Guzman J, Johnston JM, Noyan H, Juurlink BH, Misra V, Verge VMK. FOXO3a as a sensor of unilateral nerve injury in sensory neurons ipsilateral, contralateral and remote to injury. Neural Regen Res 2020; 15:2353-2361. [PMID: 32594060 PMCID: PMC7749464 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.284999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence supports that the stress response to peripheral nerve injury extends beyond the injured neuron, with alterations in associated transcription factors detected both locally and remote to the lesion. Stress-induced nuclear translocation of the transcription factor forkhead class box O3a (FOXO3a) was initially linked to activation of apoptotic genes in many neuronal subtypes. However, a more complex role of FOXO3a has been suggested in the injury response of sensory neurons, with the injured neuron expressing less FOXO3a. To elucidate this response and test whether non-injured sensory neurons also alter FOXO3a expression, the temporal impact of chronic unilateral L4–6 spinal nerve transection on FOXO3a expression and nuclear localization in adult rat dorsal root ganglion neurons ipsilateral, contralateral or remote to injury relative to naïve controls was examined. In naïve neurons, high cytoplasmic and nuclear levels of FOXO3a colocalized with calcitonin gene related peptide, a marker of the nociceptive subpopulation. One hour post-injury, an acute increase in nuclear FOXO3a in small size injured neurons occurred followed by a significant decrease after 1, 2 and 4 days, with levels increasing toward pre-injury levels by 1 week post-injury. A more robust biphasic response to the injury was observed in uninjured neurons contralateral to and those remote to injury. Nuclear levels of FOXO3a peaked at 1 day, decreased by 4 days, then increased by 1 week post-injury, a response mirrored in C4 dorsal root ganglion neurons remote to injury. This altered expression contralateral and remote to injury supports that spinal nerve damage has broader systemic impacts, a response we recently reported for another stress transcription factor, Luman/CREB3. The early decreased expression and nuclear localization of FOXO3a in the injured neuron implicate these changes in the cell body response to injury that may be protective. Finally, the broader systemic changes support the existence of stress/injury-induced humeral factor(s) influencing transcriptional and potentially behavioral changes in uninjured dorsal root ganglion neurons. Approval to conduct this study was obtained from the University of Saskatchewan Animal Research Ethics Board (protocol #19920164).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jovan C D Hasmatali
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology; Cameco MS Neuroscience Research Center; Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK; Current affiliation: Department of Critical Care Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Jolly De Guzman
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology; Cameco MS Neuroscience Research Center, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Jayne M Johnston
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology; Cameco MS Neuroscience Research Center, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Hossein Noyan
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology; Cameco MS Neuroscience Research Center, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK; Current affiliation: Department of Chemistry and Biology, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bernhard H Juurlink
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology; Cameco MS Neuroscience Research Center, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Vikram Misra
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Valerie M K Verge
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology; Cameco MS Neuroscience Research Center, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Retinal Ganglion Cells Die by Necroptotic Mechanisms in a Site-Specific Manner in a Rat Blunt Ocular Injury Model. Cells 2019; 8:cells8121517. [PMID: 31779177 PMCID: PMC6953069 DOI: 10.3390/cells8121517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Closed-globe injury can cause visual loss in military and civilian populations, with retinal cell death, including retinal ganglion cell (RGC) degeneration, leading to irreversible blindness. RGC and optic nerve (ON) degeneration after eye or head injury is termed traumatic optic neuropathy (TON). There are currently no treatments for RGC loss, therefore novel therapeutics to prevent RGC death or promote axonal regeneration are a priority. We investigated necroptotic signaling mechanisms in a rat blunt ocular injury model. After bilateral blunt trauma, protein expression and retinal localization of necroptosis pathway members (receptor interacting protein kinase 1, RIPK1; receptor interacting protein kinase 3, RIPK3; and mixed lineage kinase domain like pseudokinase, MLKL) were assessed by Western blot and immunohistochemistry (IHC), and potent necroptosis inhibitor Necrostatin-1s (Nec-1s) was delivered by intravitreal injection to one eye and vehicle to the contralateral eye. RGC and photoreceptor survival were assessed by cell counting and outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness measurements on histology. The neuroprotective effects of Nec-1s were assessed in primary retinal culture by βIII-tubulin+ RGC cell counts. MLKL protein expression were upregulated at 48 h after injury and MLKL immunolocalised to retinal binding protein with multiple splice (RBPMS)+ RGC, inner nuclear cells and ONL cells, specifically at the retinal injury site. RIPK3 expression did not increase but RIPK3 co-immunolocalised with RBPMS+ RGC in intact and injured retinae. In vitro, a Nec-1s concentration of 0.01 pg/µL was RGC neuroprotective. In the blunt ocular injury rat model, Nec-1s prevented RGC death at the center of the impact site but did not protect against ONL thinning or provide functional restitution. RGC degeneration in our blunt ocular injury model is site-specific, with necroptosis driving death at the center of the focal impact site.
Collapse
|
11
|
Tuxworth RI, Taylor MJ, Martin Anduaga A, Hussien-Ali A, Chatzimatthaiou S, Longland J, Thompson AM, Almutiri S, Alifragis P, Kyriacou CP, Kysela B, Ahmed Z. Attenuating the DNA damage response to double-strand breaks restores function in models of CNS neurodegeneration. Brain Commun 2019; 1:fcz005. [PMID: 32954257 PMCID: PMC7425387 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcz005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA double-strand breaks are a feature of many acute and long-term neurological disorders, including neurodegeneration, following neurotrauma and after stroke. Persistent activation of the DNA damage response in response to double-strand breaks contributes to neural dysfunction and pathology as it can force post-mitotic neurons to re-enter the cell cycle leading to senescence or apoptosis. Mature, non-dividing neurons may tolerate low levels of DNA damage, in which case muting the DNA damage response might be neuroprotective. Here, we show that attenuating the DNA damage response by targeting the meiotic recombination 11, Rad50, Nijmegen breakage syndrome 1 complex, which is involved in double-strand break recognition, is neuroprotective in three neurodegeneration models in Drosophila and prevents Aβ1-42-induced loss of synapses in embryonic hippocampal neurons. Attenuating the DNA damage response after optic nerve injury is also neuroprotective to retinal ganglion cells and promotes dramatic regeneration of their neurites both in vitro and in vivo. Dorsal root ganglion neurons similarly regenerate when the DNA damage response is targeted in vitro and in vivo and this strategy also induces significant restoration of lost function after spinal cord injury. We conclude that muting the DNA damage response in the nervous system is neuroprotective in multiple neurological disorders. Our results point to new therapies to maintain or repair the nervous system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard I Tuxworth
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Matthew J Taylor
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Ane Martin Anduaga
- Department of Genetics & Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Alaa Hussien-Ali
- Centre for Biomedical Science, Centre of Gene and Cell Therapy, School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK
| | | | - Joanne Longland
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Adam M Thompson
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Sharif Almutiri
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.,Applied Medical Science College, Shaqra University, Addawadmi, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Pavlos Alifragis
- Centre for Biomedical Science, Centre of Gene and Cell Therapy, School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK
| | | | - Boris Kysela
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.,Aston Medical School, Aston Medical Research Institute, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Zubair Ahmed
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Thomas CN, Thompson AM, McCance E, Berry M, Logan A, Blanch RJ, Ahmed Z. Caspase-2 Mediates Site-Specific Retinal Ganglion Cell Death After Blunt Ocular Injury. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 59:4453-4462. [PMID: 30193318 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-24045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Ocular trauma is common in civilian and military populations. Among other injuries, closed globe blunt ocular trauma causes acute disruption of photoreceptor outer segments (commotio retinae) and retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death (traumatic optic neuropathy [TON]), both of which permanently impair vision. Caspase-2-dependent cell death is important and evidenced in models of RGC degeneration. We assessed the role of caspase-2 as a mediator of RGC and photoreceptor death in a rat blunt ocular trauma model. Methods Bilateral ballistic closed globe blunt ocular trauma was induced in female Lister-hooded rats and caspase-2 cleavage and localization assessed by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Retinal caspase-2 was knocked down by intravitreal injection of caspase-2 small interfering RNA (siCASP2). In retinal sections, RGC survival was assessed by BRN3A-positive cell counts and photoreceptor survival by outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness, respectively. Retinal function was assessed by electroretinography (ERG). Results Raised levels of cleaved caspase-2 were detected in the retina at 5, 24, and 48 hours after injury and localized to RGC but not photoreceptors. Small interfering RNA-mediated caspase-2 knockdown neuroprotected RGC around but not in the center of the injury site. In addition, caspase-2 knockdown increased the amplitude of the ERG photopic negative response (PhNR) at 2 weeks after injury. However, siCASP2 was not protective for photoreceptors, suggesting that photoreceptor degeneration in this model is not mediated by caspase-2. Conclusions Caspase-2 mediates death in a proportion of RGC but not photoreceptors at the site of blunt ocular trauma. Thus, intravitreally delivered siCASP2 is a possible therapeutic for the effective treatment of RGC death to prevent TON.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chloe N Thomas
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Adam M Thompson
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Eleanor McCance
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Berry
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Ann Logan
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Richard J Blanch
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,Academic Department of Military Surgery and Trauma, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Zubair Ahmed
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wiberg R, Novikova LN, Kingham PJ. Evaluation of apoptotic pathways in dorsal root ganglion neurons following peripheral nerve injury. Neuroreport 2019; 29:779-785. [PMID: 29659443 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000001031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injuries induce significant sensory neuronal cell death in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG); however, the role of specific apoptotic pathways is still unclear. In this study, we performed peripheral nerve transection on adult rats, after which the corresponding DRGs were harvested at 7, 14, and 28 days after injury for subsequent molecular analyses with quantitative reverse transcription-PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Nerve injury led to increased levels of caspase-3 mRNA and active caspase-3 protein in the DRG. Increased expression of caspase-8, caspase-12, caspase-7, and calpain suggested that both the extrinsic and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-mediated apoptotic pathways were activated. Phosphorylation of protein kinase R-like ER kinase further implied the involvement of ER-stress in the DRG. Phosphorylated protein kinase R-like ER kinase was most commonly associated with isolectin B4 (IB4)-positive neurons in the DRG and this may provide an explanation for the increased susceptibility of these neurons to die following nerve injury, likely in part because of an activation of the ER-stress response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Wiberg
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Section of Anatomy.,Department of Surgical & Perioperative Sciences, Section of Hand and Plastic Surgery, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Paul J Kingham
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Section of Anatomy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mihara Y, Horikawa M, Sato S, Eto F, Hanada M, Banno T, Arima H, Ushirozako H, Yamada T, Xu D, Okamoto A, Yamazaki F, Takei S, Omura T, Yao I, Matsuyama Y, Setou M. Lysophosphatidic acid precursor levels decrease and an arachidonic acid-containing phosphatidylcholine level increases in the dorsal root ganglion of mice after peripheral nerve injury. Neurosci Lett 2019; 698:69-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
15
|
Martin SL, Reid AJ, Verkhratsky A, Magnaghi V, Faroni A. Gene expression changes in dorsal root ganglia following peripheral nerve injury: roles in inflammation, cell death and nociception. Neural Regen Res 2019; 14:939-947. [PMID: 30761997 PMCID: PMC6404509 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.250566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Subsequent to a peripheral nerve injury, there are changes in gene expression within the dorsal root ganglia in response to the damage. This review selects factors which are well-known to be vital for inflammation, cell death and nociception, and highlights how alterations in their gene expression within the dorsal root ganglia can affect functional recovery. The majority of studies used polymerase chain reaction within animal models to analyse the dynamic changes following peripheral nerve injuries. This review aims to highlight the factors at the gene expression level that impede functional recovery and are hence are potential targets for therapeutic approaches. Where possible the experimental model, specific time-points and cellular location of expression levels are reported.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Martin
- Blond McIndoe Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Adam J Reid
- Blond McIndoe Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester; University Hospital of South Manchester, Department of Plastic and Burns, Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Alexei Verkhratsky
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Valerio Magnaghi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Faroni
- Blond McIndoe Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kian K, Khalatbary AR, Ahmadvand H, Karimpour Malekshah A, Shams Z. Neuroprotective effects of (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) against peripheral nerve transection-induced apoptosis. Nutr Neurosci 2018; 22:578-586. [DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2017.1419542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kosar Kian
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Ali Reza Khalatbary
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Hassan Ahmadvand
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
- Razi Herbal Researches Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Abbasali Karimpour Malekshah
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Zahra Shams
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Shams Z, Khalatbary AR, Ahmadvand H, Zare Z, Kian K. Neuroprotective effects of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy on neuronal death induced by sciatic nerve transection in rat. BMC Neurol 2017; 17:220. [PMID: 29246132 PMCID: PMC5732534 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-017-1004-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recent studies shows that hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy exerts some protective effects against neural injuries. The purpose of this study was to determine the neuroprotective effects of HBO following sciatic nerve transection (SNT). Methods Rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 14 per group): Sham-operated (SH) group, SH + HBO group, SNT group, and SNT + pre- and SNT + post-HBO groups (100% oxygen at 2.0 atm absolute, 60 min/day for five consecutive days beginning on 1 day before and immediately after nerve transaction, respectively). Spinal cord segments of the sciatic nerve and related dorsal root ganglions (DRGs) were removed 4 weeks after nerve transection for biochemical assessment of malodialdehyde (MDA) levels in spinal cord, biochemical assessment of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalse (CAT) activities in spinal cord, immunohistochemistry of caspase-3, cyclooxigenase-2 (COX-2), S100beta (S100ß), and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) in spinal cord and DRG. Results The results revealed that MDA levels were significantly decreased in the SNT + pre-HBO group, while SOD and CAT activities were significantly increased in SNT + pre- and SNT + post-HBO treated rats. Attenuated caspase-3 and COX-2 expression, and TUNEL reaction could be significantly detected in the HBO-treated rats after nerve transection. Also, HBO significantly increased S100ß expression. Conclusions Based on these results, we can conclude that pre- and post-HBO therapy had neuroprotective effects against sciatic nerve transection-induced degeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Shams
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Ali Reza Khalatbary
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
| | - Hassan Ahmadvand
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran.,Razi Herbal Researches Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Zohreh Zare
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Kosar Kian
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Thomas CN, Berry M, Logan A, Blanch RJ, Ahmed Z. Caspases in retinal ganglion cell death and axon regeneration. Cell Death Discov 2017; 3:17032. [PMID: 29675270 PMCID: PMC5903394 DOI: 10.1038/cddiscovery.2017.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Revised: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 04/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGC) are terminally differentiated CNS neurons that possess limited endogenous regenerative capacity after injury and thus RGC death causes permanent visual loss. RGC die by caspase-dependent mechanisms, including apoptosis, during development, after ocular injury and in progressive degenerative diseases of the eye and optic nerve, such as glaucoma, anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, diabetic retinopathy and multiple sclerosis. Inhibition of caspases through genetic or pharmacological approaches can arrest the apoptotic cascade and protect a proportion of RGC. Novel findings have also highlighted a pyroptotic role of inflammatory caspases in RGC death. In this review, we discuss the molecular signalling mechanisms of apoptotic and inflammatory caspase responses in RGC specifically, their involvement in RGC degeneration and explore their potential as therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chloe N Thomas
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Martin Berry
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ann Logan
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Richard J Blanch
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Academic Department of Military Surgery and Trauma, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham, UK
| | - Zubair Ahmed
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Miles M, Kitevska-Ilioski T, Hawkins C. Old and Novel Functions of Caspase-2. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 332:155-212. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2016.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
20
|
Caspase-2 and microRNA34a/c regulate lidocaine-induced dorsal root ganglia apoptosis in vitro. Eur J Pharmacol 2015; 767:61-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2015.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Revised: 10/05/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
21
|
Molecular cloning of two molluscan caspases and gene functional analysis during Crassostrea angulata (Fujian oyster) larval metamorphosis. Mol Biol Rep 2014; 42:963-75. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-014-3833-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|