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Granholm AC, Hamlett ED. The Role of Tau Pathology in Alzheimer's Disease and Down Syndrome. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1338. [PMID: 38592182 PMCID: PMC10932364 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13051338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) exhibit an almost complete penetrance of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology but are underrepresented in clinical trials for AD. The Tau protein is associated with microtubule function in the neuron and is crucial for normal axonal transport. In several different neurodegenerative disorders, Tau misfolding leads to hyper-phosphorylation of Tau (p-Tau), which may seed pathology to bystander cells and spread. This review is focused on current findings regarding p-Tau and its potential to seed pathology as a "prion-like" spreader. It also considers the consequences of p-Tau pathology leading to AD, particularly in individuals with Down syndrome. Methods: Scopus (SC) and PubMed (PM) were searched in English using keywords "tau AND seeding AND brain AND down syndrome". A total of 558 SC or 529 PM potentially relevant articles were identified, of which only six SC or three PM articles mentioned Down syndrome. This review was built upon the literature and the recent findings of our group and others. Results: Misfolded p-Tau isoforms are seeding competent and may be responsible for spreading AD pathology. Conclusions: This review demonstrates recent work focused on understanding the role of neurofibrillary tangles and monomeric/oligomeric Tau in the prion-like spreading of Tau pathology in the human brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Charlotte Granholm
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Eric D. Hamlett
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
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2
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Hiew S, Eibeck L, Nguemeni C, Zeller D. The Influence of Age and Physical Activity on Locomotor Adaptation. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1266. [PMID: 37759867 PMCID: PMC10526769 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13091266] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aging increases individual susceptibility to falls and injuries, suggesting poorer adaptation of balance responses to perturbation during locomotion, which can be measured with the locomotor adaptation task (LAT). However, it is unclear how aging and lifestyle factors affect these responses during walking. Hence, the present study investigates the relationship between balance and lifestyle factors during the LAT in healthy individuals across the adult lifespan using a correlational design. METHODS Thirty participants aged 20-78 years performed an LAT on a split-belt treadmill (SBT). We evaluated the magnitude and rate of adaptation and deadaptation during the LAT. Participants reported their lifelong physical and cognitive activity. RESULTS Age positively correlated with gait-line length asymmetry at the late post-adaptation phase (p = 0.007). These age-related effects were mediated by recent physical activity levels (p = 0.040). CONCLUSION Our results confirm that locomotor adaptive responses are preserved in aging, but the ability to deadapt newly learnt balance responses is compromised with age. Physical activity mediates these age-related effects. Therefore, gait symmetry post-adaptation could effectively measure the risk of falling, and maintaining physical activity could protect against declines in balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn Hiew
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany; (L.E.); (C.N.); (D.Z.)
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David MCB, Del Giovane M, Liu KY, Gostick B, Rowe JB, Oboh I, Howard R, Malhotra PA. Cognitive and neuropsychiatric effects of noradrenergic treatment in Alzheimer's disease: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2022; 93:jnnp-2022-329136. [PMID: 35790417 PMCID: PMC9484390 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2022-329136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysfunction of the locus coeruleus-noradrenergic system occurs early in Alzheimer's disease, contributing to cognitive and neuropsychiatric symptoms in some patients. This system offers a potential therapeutic target, although noradrenergic treatments are not currently used in clinical practice. OBJECTIVE To assess the efficacy of drugs with principally noradrenergic action in improving cognitive and neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease. METHODS The MEDLINE, Embase and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched from 1980 to December 2021. We generated pooled estimates using random effects meta-analyses. RESULTS We included 19 randomised controlled trials (1811 patients), of which six were judged as 'good' quality, seven as 'fair' and six 'poor'. Meta-analysis of 10 of these studies (1300 patients) showed a significant small positive effect of noradrenergic drugs on global cognition, measured using the Mini-Mental State Examination or Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (standardised mean difference (SMD): 0.14, 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.25, p=0.01; I2=0%). No significant effect was seen on measures of attention (SMD: 0.01, 95% CI: -0.17 to 0.19, p=0.91; I2=0). The apathy meta-analysis included eight trials (425 patients) and detected a large positive effect of noradrenergic drugs (SMD: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.16 to 0.73, p=0.002; I2=58%). This positive effect was still present following removal of outliers to account for heterogeneity across studies. DISCUSSION Repurposing of established noradrenergic drugs is most likely to offer effective treatment in Alzheimer's disease for general cognition and apathy. However, several factors should be considered before designing future clinical trials. These include targeting of appropriate patient subgroups and understanding the dose effects of individual drugs and their interactions with other treatments to minimise risks and maximise therapeutic effects. PROSPERO REGISTERATION NUMBER CRD42021277500.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael C B David
- Imperial College London and the University of Surrey, UK Dementia Research Institute Care Research and Technology Centre, London, UK
- Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Clinical Neurosciences, Charing Cross Hospital, London, UK
| | - Martina Del Giovane
- Imperial College London and the University of Surrey, UK Dementia Research Institute Care Research and Technology Centre, London, UK
- Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Kathy Y Liu
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - James Benedict Rowe
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Imafidon Oboh
- South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Robert Howard
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Paresh A Malhotra
- Imperial College London and the University of Surrey, UK Dementia Research Institute Care Research and Technology Centre, London, UK
- Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Clinical Neurosciences, Charing Cross Hospital, London, UK
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4
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Gutiérrez IL, Dello Russo C, Novellino F, Caso JR, García-Bueno B, Leza JC, Madrigal JLM. Noradrenaline in Alzheimer's Disease: A New Potential Therapeutic Target. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116143. [PMID: 35682822 PMCID: PMC9181823 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing body of evidence demonstrates the important role of the noradrenergic system in the pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative processes, especially Alzheimer’s disease, due to its ability to control glial activation and chemokine production resulting in anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Noradrenaline involvement in this disease was first proposed after finding deficits of noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus from Alzheimer’s disease patients. Based on this, it has been hypothesized that the early loss of noradrenergic projections and the subsequent reduction of noradrenaline brain levels contribute to cognitive dysfunctions and the progression of neurodegeneration. Several studies have focused on analyzing the role of noradrenaline in the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. In this review we summarize some of the most relevant data describing the alterations of the noradrenergic system normally occurring in Alzheimer’s disease as well as experimental studies in which noradrenaline concentration was modified in order to further analyze how these alterations affect the behavior and viability of different nervous cells. The combination of the different studies here presented suggests that the maintenance of adequate noradrenaline levels in the central nervous system constitutes a key factor of the endogenous defense systems that help prevent or delay the development of Alzheimer’s disease. For this reason, the use of noradrenaline modulating drugs is proposed as an interesting alternative therapeutic option for Alzheimer’s disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene L. Gutiérrez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12), Instituto de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUINQ-UCM), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (I.L.G.); (F.N.); (J.R.C.); (B.G.-B.); (J.C.L.)
| | - Cinzia Dello Russo
- Department of Healthcare Surveillance and Bioethics, Section of Pharmacology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology (ISMIB), University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GL, UK
| | - Fabiana Novellino
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12), Instituto de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUINQ-UCM), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (I.L.G.); (F.N.); (J.R.C.); (B.G.-B.); (J.C.L.)
- Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology (IBFM), National Research Council, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Javier R. Caso
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12), Instituto de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUINQ-UCM), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (I.L.G.); (F.N.); (J.R.C.); (B.G.-B.); (J.C.L.)
| | - Borja García-Bueno
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12), Instituto de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUINQ-UCM), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (I.L.G.); (F.N.); (J.R.C.); (B.G.-B.); (J.C.L.)
| | - Juan C. Leza
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12), Instituto de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUINQ-UCM), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (I.L.G.); (F.N.); (J.R.C.); (B.G.-B.); (J.C.L.)
| | - José L. M. Madrigal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12), Instituto de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUINQ-UCM), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (I.L.G.); (F.N.); (J.R.C.); (B.G.-B.); (J.C.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-91-394-1463
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Ferguson LA, Leal SL. Interactions of Emotion and Memory in the Aging Brain: Neural and Psychological Correlates. Curr Behav Neurosci Rep 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40473-021-00245-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Rujeedawa T, Carrillo Félez E, Clare ICH, Fortea J, Strydom A, Rebillat AS, Coppus A, Levin J, Zaman SH. The Clinical and Neuropathological Features of Sporadic (Late-Onset) and Genetic Forms of Alzheimer's Disease. J Clin Med 2021; 10:4582. [PMID: 34640600 PMCID: PMC8509365 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10194582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to compare and highlight the clinical and pathological aspects of genetic versus acquired Alzheimer's disease: Down syndrome-associated Alzheimer's disease in (DSAD) and Autosomal Dominant Alzheimer's disease (ADAD) are compared with the late-onset form of the disease (LOAD). DSAD and ADAD present in a younger population and are more likely to manifest with non-amnestic (such as dysexecutive function features) in the prodromal phase or neurological features (such as seizures and paralysis) especially in ADAD. The very large variety of mutations associated with ADAD explains the wider range of phenotypes. In the LOAD, age-associated comorbidities explain many of the phenotypic differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanzil Rujeedawa
- Cambridge Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 8PQ, UK; (T.R.); (E.C.F.); (I.C.H.C.)
| | - Eva Carrillo Félez
- Cambridge Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 8PQ, UK; (T.R.); (E.C.F.); (I.C.H.C.)
| | - Isabel C. H. Clare
- Cambridge Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 8PQ, UK; (T.R.); (E.C.F.); (I.C.H.C.)
- Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Foundation NHS Trust, Fulbourn CB21 5EF, UK
| | - Juan Fortea
- Sant Pau Memory Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain;
- Center of Biomedical Investigation Network for Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 28031 Madrid, Spain
- Barcelona Down Medical Center, Fundació Catalana Síndrome de Down, 08029 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andre Strydom
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London SE5 8AF, UK;
- South London and the Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, The LonDowns Consortium, London SE5 8AZ, UK
| | | | - Antonia Coppus
- Department for Primary and Community Care, Department of Primary and Community Care (149 ELG), Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
| | - Johannes Levin
- Department of Neurology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 80539 Munich, Germany;
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Feodor-Lynen-Strasse 17, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Feodor-Lynen-Strasse 17, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Shahid H. Zaman
- Cambridge Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 8PQ, UK; (T.R.); (E.C.F.); (I.C.H.C.)
- Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Foundation NHS Trust, Fulbourn CB21 5EF, UK
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Singh A, Allen D, Fracassi A, Tumurbaatar B, Natarajan C, Scaduto P, Woltjer R, Kayed R, Limon A, Krishnan B, Taglialatela G. Functional Integrity of Synapses in the Central Nervous System of Cognitively Intact Individuals with High Alzheimer's Disease Neuropathology Is Associated with Absence of Synaptic Tau Oligomers. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 78:1661-1678. [PMID: 33185603 PMCID: PMC7836055 DOI: 10.3233/jad-200716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Certain individuals, here referred to as Non-Demented with Alzheimer Neuropathology (NDAN), do not show overt neurodegeneration (N-) and remain cognitively intact despite the presence of plaques (A+) and tangles (T+) that would normally be consistent with fully symptomatic Alzheimer's disease (AD). OBJECTIVE The existence of NDAN (A + T+N-) subjects suggests that the human brain utilizes intrinsic mechanisms that can naturally evade cognitive decline normally associated with the symptomatic stages of AD (A + T+N+). Deciphering the underlying mechanisms would prove relevant to develop complementing therapeutics to prevent progression of AD-related cognitive decline. METHODS Previously, we have reported that NDAN present with preserved neurogenesis and synaptic integrity paralleled by absence of amyloid oligomers at synapses. Using postmortem brain samples from age-matched control subjects, demented AD patients and NDAN individuals, we performed immunofluorescence, western blots, micro transplantation of synaptic membranes in Xenopus oocytes followed by twin electrode voltage clamp electrophysiology and fluorescence assisted single synaptosome-long term potentiation studies. RESULTS We report decreased tau oligomers at synapses in the brains of NDAN subjects. Furthermore, using novel approaches we report, for the first time, that such absence of tau oligomers at synapses is associated with synaptic functional integrity in NDAN subjects as compared to demented AD patients. CONCLUSION Overall, these results give further credence to tau oligomers as primary actors of synaptic destruction underscoring cognitive demise in AD and support their targeting as a viable therapeutic strategy for AD and related tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayush Singh
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, UTMB Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Dyron Allen
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, UTMB Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Anna Fracassi
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, UTMB Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Batbayar Tumurbaatar
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, UTMB Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Chandramouli Natarajan
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, UTMB Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Pietro Scaduto
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, UTMB Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Randy Woltjer
- Department of Pathology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Rakez Kayed
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, UTMB Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Agenor Limon
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, UTMB Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Balaji Krishnan
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, UTMB Galveston, TX, USA,Correspondence to: Giulio Taglialatela, PhD, Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, UTMB Galveston, TX, USA. Tel.: +1 409 772 1679; Fax: +1 409 772 0015; E-mail: . and Balaji Krishnan, PhD, Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, UTMB Galveston, TX, USA. Tel.: +1 409 772 8069; Fax: +1 409 772 0015; E-mail:
| | - Giulio Taglialatela
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, UTMB Galveston, TX, USA,Correspondence to: Giulio Taglialatela, PhD, Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, UTMB Galveston, TX, USA. Tel.: +1 409 772 1679; Fax: +1 409 772 0015; E-mail: . and Balaji Krishnan, PhD, Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, UTMB Galveston, TX, USA. Tel.: +1 409 772 8069; Fax: +1 409 772 0015; E-mail:
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Holland N, Robbins TW, Rowe JB. The role of noradrenaline in cognition and cognitive disorders. Brain 2021; 144:2243-2256. [PMID: 33725122 PMCID: PMC8418349 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Many aspects of cognition and behaviour are regulated by noradrenergic projections to the forebrain originating from the locus coeruleus, acting through alpha and beta adrenoreceptors. Loss of these projections is common in neurodegenerative diseases and contributes to their cognitive and behavioural deficits. We review the evidence for a noradrenergic modulation of cognition in its contribution to Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and other cognitive disorders. We discuss the advances in human imaging and computational methods that quantify the locus coeruleus and its function in humans, and highlight the potential for new noradrenergic treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negin Holland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SZ, UK
| | - Trevor W Robbins
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EB, UK
- Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EB, UK
| | - James B Rowe
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SZ, UK
- Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EB, UK
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 7EF, UK
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Plini ERG, O’Hanlon E, Boyle R, Sibilia F, Rikhye G, Kenney J, Whelan R, Melnychuk MC, Robertson IH, Dockree PM. Examining the Role of the Noradrenergic Locus Coeruleus for Predicting Attention and Brain Maintenance in Healthy Old Age and Disease: An MRI Structural Study for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative. Cells 2021; 10:1829. [PMID: 34359997 PMCID: PMC8306442 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The noradrenergic theory of Cognitive Reserve (Robertson, 2013-2014) postulates that the upregulation of the locus coeruleus-noradrenergic system (LC-NA) originating in the brainstem might facilitate cortical networks involved in attention, and protracted activation of this system throughout the lifespan may enhance cognitive stimulation contributing to reserve. To test the above-mentioned theory, a study was conducted on a sample of 686 participants (395 controls, 156 mild cognitive impairment, 135 Alzheimer's disease) investigating the relationship between LC volume, attentional performance and a biological index of brain maintenance (BrainPAD-an objective measure, which compares an individual's structural brain health, reflected by their voxel-wise grey matter density, to the state typically expected at that individual's age). Further analyses were carried out on reserve indices including education and occupational attainment. Volumetric variation across groups was also explored along with gender differences. Control analyses on the serotoninergic (5-HT), dopaminergic (DA) and cholinergic (Ach) systems were contrasted with the noradrenergic (NA) hypothesis. The antithetic relationships were also tested across the neuromodulatory subcortical systems. Results supported by Bayesian modelling showed that LC volume disproportionately predicted higher attentional performance as well as biological brain maintenance across the three groups. These findings lend support to the role of the noradrenergic system as a key mediator underpinning the neuropsychology of reserve, and they suggest that early prevention strategies focused on the noradrenergic system (e.g., cognitive-attentive training, physical exercise, pharmacological and dietary interventions) may yield important clinical benefits to mitigate cognitive impairment with age and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele R. G. Plini
- Department of Psychology, Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Llyod Building, 42A Pearse St, 8PVX+GJ Dublin, Ireland; (E.O.); (R.B.); (G.R.); (J.K.); (M.C.M.); (I.H.R.); (P.M.D.)
| | - Erik O’Hanlon
- Department of Psychology, Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Llyod Building, 42A Pearse St, 8PVX+GJ Dublin, Ireland; (E.O.); (R.B.); (G.R.); (J.K.); (M.C.M.); (I.H.R.); (P.M.D.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Hospital Rd, Beaumont, 9QRH+4F Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, 152-160 Pearse St, 8QV3+99 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Rory Boyle
- Department of Psychology, Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Llyod Building, 42A Pearse St, 8PVX+GJ Dublin, Ireland; (E.O.); (R.B.); (G.R.); (J.K.); (M.C.M.); (I.H.R.); (P.M.D.)
| | - Francesca Sibilia
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, 152-160 Pearse St, 8QV3+99 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Gaia Rikhye
- Department of Psychology, Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Llyod Building, 42A Pearse St, 8PVX+GJ Dublin, Ireland; (E.O.); (R.B.); (G.R.); (J.K.); (M.C.M.); (I.H.R.); (P.M.D.)
| | - Joanne Kenney
- Department of Psychology, Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Llyod Building, 42A Pearse St, 8PVX+GJ Dublin, Ireland; (E.O.); (R.B.); (G.R.); (J.K.); (M.C.M.); (I.H.R.); (P.M.D.)
| | - Robert Whelan
- Department of Psychology, Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Lloyd Building, 42A Pearse St, 8PVX+GJ Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Michael C. Melnychuk
- Department of Psychology, Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Llyod Building, 42A Pearse St, 8PVX+GJ Dublin, Ireland; (E.O.); (R.B.); (G.R.); (J.K.); (M.C.M.); (I.H.R.); (P.M.D.)
| | - Ian H. Robertson
- Department of Psychology, Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Llyod Building, 42A Pearse St, 8PVX+GJ Dublin, Ireland; (E.O.); (R.B.); (G.R.); (J.K.); (M.C.M.); (I.H.R.); (P.M.D.)
- Department of Psychology, Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Lloyd Building, 42A Pearse St, 8PVX+GJ Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Paul M. Dockree
- Department of Psychology, Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Llyod Building, 42A Pearse St, 8PVX+GJ Dublin, Ireland; (E.O.); (R.B.); (G.R.); (J.K.); (M.C.M.); (I.H.R.); (P.M.D.)
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Palm D, Uzoni A, Simon F, Tucha O, Thome J, Faltraco F. Norepinephrine influences the circadian clock in human dermal fibroblasts from study participants with a diagnosis of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2021; 128:1147-1157. [PMID: 34275002 PMCID: PMC8295072 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-021-02376-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by changes to the circadian process. Many medications used to treat the condition, influence norepinephrine levels. Several studies have, in addition, reported that norepinephrine itself has an effect on circadian function. The aim of this study was to investigate the circadian gene expression in primary human-derived dermal fibroblast cultures (HDF) after norepinephrine exposure. We analyzed circadian preference, behavioral circadian and sleep parameters as well as the circadian gene expression in a cohort of healthy controls and participants with an ADHD diagnosis. Circadian preference was evaluated with German Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaire (D-MEQ) and rhythms of sleep/wake behavior were assessed via actigraphy. After ex vivo exposure to different norepinephrine concentrations in HDF cultures, the rhythmicity of circadian gene expression was analyzed via qRT-PCR. The exposure of 1 µM norepinephrine to confluent cultures of human dermal fibroblasts from participants with a diagnosis of ADHD, was shown to dampen Per1 rhythmicity. The expression of Bmal1, Per1 and Per3 in control subjects was also influenced by incubation with 1 µM norepinephrine. Cultures from the ADHD group revealed no statistically significant overall differences in circadian gene expression, between cultures with and without norepinephrine incubation. Per3 expression showed a significant ZT × group interaction via mixed ANOVA. Per3 expression at ZT4 was significant higher in the group of control samples incubated with 1 µM norepinephrine, compared to the control group without norepinephrine. This effect was also shown in the control samples incubated with 1 µM norepinephrine and cultures from subjects with ADHD without norepinephrine incubation. Per3 expression differed between the healthy control group and the ADHD group without norepinephrine incubation at ZT28. The results of the present study illustrate that norepinephrine impacts on circadian function. In both groups, control group and cultures taken from subjects with ADHD, the expression of the periodic genes (Per1–3) was significantly influenced by incubation with norepinephrine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Palm
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre Rostock, Rostock, Gehlsheimer Str. 20, 18147, Rostock, Germany
| | - Adriana Uzoni
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre Rostock, Rostock, Gehlsheimer Str. 20, 18147, Rostock, Germany
| | - Frederick Simon
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre Rostock, Rostock, Gehlsheimer Str. 20, 18147, Rostock, Germany
| | - Oliver Tucha
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre Rostock, Rostock, Gehlsheimer Str. 20, 18147, Rostock, Germany
| | - Johannes Thome
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre Rostock, Rostock, Gehlsheimer Str. 20, 18147, Rostock, Germany
| | - Frank Faltraco
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre Rostock, Rostock, Gehlsheimer Str. 20, 18147, Rostock, Germany.
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11
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Nangia V, O'Connell J, Chopra K, Qing Y, Reppert C, Chai CM, Bhasiin K, Colodner KJ. Genetic reduction of tyramine β hydroxylase suppresses Tau toxicity in a Drosophila model of tauopathy. Neurosci Lett 2021; 755:135937. [PMID: 33910059 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.135937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Tauopathies are a class of neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the abnormal phosphorylation and accumulation of the microtubule-associated protein, Tau. These diseases are associated with degeneration and dysfunction of the noradrenergic system, a critical regulator of memory, locomotion, and the fight or flight response. Though Tau pathology accumulates early in noradrenergic neurons, the relationship between noradrenaline signaling and tauopathy pathogenesis remains unclear. The fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, is a valuable model organism commonly used to investigate factors that promote Tau-mediated degeneration. Moreover, Drosophila contain the biogenic amine, octopamine, which is the functional homolog to noradrenaline. Using a Drosophila model of tauopathy, we conducted a candidate modifier screen targeting tyramine β hydroxylase (tβh), the enzyme that controls the production of octopamine in the fly, to determine if levels of this enzyme modulate Tau-induced degeneration in the fly eye. We found that genetic reduction of tβh suppresses Tau toxicity, independent of Tau phosphorylation. These findings show that reduction of tβh, a critical enzyme in the octopaminergic pathway, suppresses Tau pathogenicity and establishes an interaction that can be further utilized to determine the relationship between noradrenergic-like signaling and Tau toxicity in Drosophila.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varuna Nangia
- Program in Neuroscience & Behavior, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA, USA
| | - Julia O'Connell
- Program in Neuroscience & Behavior, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA, USA
| | - Kusha Chopra
- Program in Neuroscience & Behavior, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA, USA
| | - Yaling Qing
- Program in Neuroscience & Behavior, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA, USA
| | - Camille Reppert
- Program in Neuroscience & Behavior, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA, USA
| | - Cynthia M Chai
- Program in Neuroscience & Behavior, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA, USA
| | - Kesshni Bhasiin
- Program in Neuroscience & Behavior, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth J Colodner
- Program in Neuroscience & Behavior, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, MA, USA.
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12
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Cummings J. New approaches to symptomatic treatments for Alzheimer's disease. Mol Neurodegener 2021; 16:2. [PMID: 33441154 PMCID: PMC7805095 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-021-00424-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Successful development of agents that improve cognition and behavior in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is critical to improving the lives of patients manifesting the symptoms of this progressive disorder. DISCUSSION There have been no recent approvals of cognitive enhancing agents for AD. There are currently 6 cognitive enhancers in Phase 2 trials and 4 in phase 3. They represent a variety of novel mechanisms. There has been progress in developing new treatments for neuropsychiatric symptoms in AD with advances in treatment of insomnia, psychosis, apathy, and agitation in AD. There are currently 4 AD-related psychotropic agents in Phase 2 trials and 7 in Phase 3 trials. Many novel mechanisms are being explored for the treatment of cognitive and behavioral targets. Progress in trial designs, outcomes measures, and population definitions are improving trial conduct for symptomatic treatment of AD. CONCLUSIONS Advances in developing new agents for cognitive and behavioral symptoms of AD combined with enhanced trial methods promise to address the unmet needs of patients with AD for improved cognition and amelioration of neuropsychiatric symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Cummings
- Chambers-Grundy Center for Transformative Neuroscience, Department of Brain Health, School of Integrated Health Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, USA.
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13
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Matchett BJ, Grinberg LT, Theofilas P, Murray ME. The mechanistic link between selective vulnerability of the locus coeruleus and neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease. Acta Neuropathol 2021; 141:631-650. [PMID: 33427939 PMCID: PMC8043919 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-020-02248-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is neuropathologically characterized by the intracellular accumulation of hyperphosphorylated tau and the extracellular deposition of amyloid-β plaques, which affect certain brain regions in a progressive manner. The locus coeruleus (LC), a small nucleus in the pons of the brainstem, is widely recognized as one of the earliest sites of neurofibrillary tangle formation in AD. Patients with AD exhibit significant neuronal loss in the LC, resulting in a marked reduction of its size and function. The LC, which vastly innervates several regions of the brain, is the primary source of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine (NE) in the central nervous system. Considering that NE is a major modulator of behavior, contributing to neuroprotection and suppression of neuroinflammation, degeneration of the LC in AD and the ultimate dysregulation of the LC-NE system has detrimental effects in the brain. In this review, we detail the neuroanatomy and function of the LC, its essential role in neuroprotection, and how this is dysregulated in AD. We discuss AD-related neuropathologic changes in the LC and mechanisms by which LC neurons are selectively vulnerable to insult. Further, we elucidate the neurotoxic effects of LC de-innervation both locally and at projection sites, and how this augments disease pathology, progression and severity. We summarize how preservation of the LC-NE system could be used in the treatment of AD and other neurodegenerative diseases affected by LC degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Billie J. Matchett
- Neuropathology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224 USA
| | - Lea T. Grinberg
- Memory and Aging Center, Department of Neurology, University of California, 675 Nelson Rising Lane, San Francisco, CA 94158 USA
| | - Panos Theofilas
- Memory and Aging Center, Department of Neurology, University of California, 675 Nelson Rising Lane, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA.
| | - Melissa E. Murray
- Neuropathology Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224 USA
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14
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Li S, Shi Y, Yao X, Wang X, Shen L, Rao Z, Yuan J, Liu Y, Zhou Z, Zhang Z, Liu F, Han S, Geng J, Yang H, Cheng L. Conversion of Astrocytes and Fibroblasts into Functional Noradrenergic Neurons. Cell Rep 2020; 28:682-697.e7. [PMID: 31315047 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.06.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysfunction of noradrenergic (NA) neurons is associated with a number of neuronal disorders. Diverse neuronal subtypes can be generated by direct reprogramming. However, it is still unknown how to convert non-neuronal cells into NA neurons. Here, we show that seven transcription factors (TFs) (Ascl1, Phox2b, AP-2α, Gata3, Hand2, Nurr1, and Phox2a) are able to convert astrocytes and fibroblasts into induced NA (iNA) neurons. These iNA neurons express the genes required for the biosynthesis, release, and re-uptake of noradrenaline. Moreover, iNA neurons fire action potentials, receive synaptic inputs, and control the beating rate of co-cultured ventricular myocytes. Furthermore, iNA neurons survive and integrate into neural circuits after transplantation. Last, human fibroblasts can be converted into functional iNA neurons as well. Together, iNA neurons are generated by direct reprogramming, and they could be potentially useful for disease modeling and cell-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanlan Li
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuhan Shi
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xuan Yao
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xing Wang
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Libing Shen
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Zhiping Rao
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jiacheng Yuan
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Yueguang Liu
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Zhenning Zhou
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Ziheng Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Su'e Han
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Junlan Geng
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Leping Cheng
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
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15
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Duffy KB, Ray B, Lahiri DK, Tilmont EM, Tinkler GP, Herbert RL, Greig NH, Ingram DK, Ottinger MA, Mattison JA. Effects of Reducing Norepinephrine Levels via DSP4 Treatment on Amyloid-β Pathology in Female Rhesus Macaques (Macaca Mulatta). J Alzheimers Dis 2020; 68:115-126. [PMID: 30689563 DOI: 10.3233/jad-180487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The degeneration in the locus coeruleus associated with Alzheimer's disease suggests an involvement of the noradrenergic system in the disease pathogenesis. The role of depleted norepinephrine was tested in adult and aged rhesus macaques to develop a potential model for testing Alzheimer's disease interventions. Monkeys were injected with the noradrenergic neurotoxin N-(2-chloroethyl)-N-ethyl-2-bromobenzylamine (DSP4) or vehicle at 0, 3, and 6 months; brains were harvested at 9 months. Reduced norepinephrine in the locus coeruleus was accompanied by decreased dopamine β-hydroxylase staining and increased amyloid-β load in the aged group, and the proportion of potentially toxic amyloid-β42 peptide was increased. Immunohistochemistry revealed no effects on microglia or astrocytes. DSP4 treatment altered amyloid processing, but these changes were not associated with the induction of chronic neuroinflammation. These findings suggest norepinephrine deregulation is an essential component of a nonhuman primate model of Alzheimer's disease, but further refinement is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara B Duffy
- Animal and Avian Sciences Department, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Balmiki Ray
- Myriad Neuroscience (Assurex Health), Mason, OH, USA (present address).,Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Debomoy K Lahiri
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Edward M Tilmont
- Translational Gerontology Branch, National Institute on Aging, NIH Animal Center, Dickerson, MD, USA
| | - Gregory P Tinkler
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Richard L Herbert
- Clinical Medicine Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, NIH, Dickerson, MD, USA
| | - Nigel H Greig
- Translational Gerontology Branch, NIA/NIH, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Donald K Ingram
- Nutritional Neuroscience and Aging Laboratory, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Mary Ann Ottinger
- Animal and Avian Sciences Department, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA.,Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA (present address)
| | - Julie A Mattison
- Translational Gerontology Branch, National Institute on Aging, NIH Animal Center, Dickerson, MD, USA
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16
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Tayebati SK, Cecchi A, Martinelli I, Carboni E, Amenta F. Pharmacotherapy of Down’s Syndrome: When and Which? CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS 2020; 18:750-757. [DOI: 10.2174/1871527318666191114092924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
:
Down Syndrome (DS) is an essential genetic disease that involves many other body systems
along with cerebral functions. The postnatal approach to treat this genetic disease includes intervention
on various related disorders (e.g., heart failure, respiratory, oral, ear, and hearing disorders). However,
different proposed treatments do not significantly improve the quality of life of these subjects. Another
approach to the treatment of DS considering the possibility to intervene on the embryo was recently
introduced. As of this, the current study has reviewed different outcomes regarding DS treatment in an
animal model, namely the Ts65Dn mouse. The obtained results encouraged spending more time, efforts,
and resources in this field. Besides, various treatment strategies were tried to include genetic
modification, treatment with vasoactive intestinal peptide derivatives or fluoxetine. However, the main
obstacle to the use of these possible treatments is the ethical issues it raises. The progression of the
pregnancy in spite of awareness that DS affects the unborn and prenatal treatment of DS injured embryo
are relevant dilemmas. Thus, talented researchers should spend more efforts to improve the quality
of life for people affected by DS, which will allow probably a better approach to the ethical issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed K. Tayebati
- School of Medicinal Sciences and Health Products, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | | | - Ilenia Martinelli
- School of Medicinal Sciences and Health Products, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Elisa Carboni
- Regional Centre for Prenatal Diagnosis, Loreto, Italy
| | - Francesco Amenta
- School of Medicinal Sciences and Health Products, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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17
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Dumortier L, Bricout VA. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in adults with down syndrome: Causes and consequences. Is it a "chicken and egg" question? Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 108:124-138. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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18
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Sun M, Shen X, Ma Y. Rehmannioside A attenuates cognitive deficits in rats with vascular dementia (VD) through suppressing oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 120:109492. [PMID: 31593895 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Revised: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular dementia (VD) is a degenerative cerebrovascular disorder, leading to progressive decline of cognitive abilities and memory. Rehmannioside A (ReA) is isolated from Rehmanniae Radix, which exhibits protective role against various diseases. The present study was performed to calculate the possible neuroprotective effects of ReA on VD. Here, the morris water maze (MWM) test and electrophysiological recordings indicated that ReA reduced cognitive deficits. Additionally, through hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Nissl staining, ReA attenuated the histological alterations of hippocampus in rats with VD. ReA group significantly reduced oxidative stress, inflammatory response and apoptosis in the hippocampus of rats with VD, which was linked to the activation of nuclear erythroid related factor-2 (Nrf2), while the inactivation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and Caspase-3. Further, the anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptosis abilities of ReA were confirmed in cells stimulated by hydrogen peroxide. Overall, the results above demonstrated the protective effects of ReA against cognitive deficits and indicated the potential value of ReA in the therapy of VD in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Sun
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, No. 11 North Third Ring Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100000, China
| | - Xiaoming Shen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of TCM, No. 19 Renmin Road, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Yunzhi Ma
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, No. 11 North Third Ring Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100000, China; The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of TCM, No. 19 Renmin Road, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
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19
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Wang C, Cai Z, Wang W, Wei M, Kou D, Li T, Yang Z, Guo H, Le W, Li S. Piperine attenuates cognitive impairment in an experimental mouse model of sporadic Alzheimer's disease. J Nutr Biochem 2019; 70:147-155. [PMID: 31207354 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2019.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Piperine, the major alkaloid constituent of black pepper, has been reported to possess a wide range of pharmacological effects on the central nervous system, including antidepressant, anticonvulsant and anti-ischemic activities. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential and neuroprotective mechanisms of piperine in an experimental mouse model of sporadic Alzheimer's disease (sAD) induced by intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusion of streptozotocin (STZ). STZ was infused bilaterally at a dose of 1.5 mg/kg/day on day 1 and day 3. From day 8, piperine (2.5-10 mg/kg body weight) was administered intraperitoneally once daily for 15 consecutive days. The locomotor activity and cognitive performance of mice were evaluated using open field test and Morris water maze test, respectively. On day 23, all animals were sacrificed, and the hippocampus was used for biochemical, neurochemical and neuroinflammatory determinations. Our data revealed that the ICV-STZ-infused sAD mouse showed an increased oxidative-nitrosative stress, an altered neurotransmission and an elevated neuroinflammation in hippocampus, as well as significant cognitive deficits. All these alterations can be ameliorated by piperine in a dose-dependent manner. In summary, our findings predict a therapeutic potential of piperine against cognitive deficits in sAD mouse. This effect might be due to its abilities to ameliorate oxidative-nitrosative stress, restore neurotransmission and reduce neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Che Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian 116029, China
| | - Zhengxu Cai
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian 116001, China
| | - Min Wei
- Liaoning Provincial Center for Clinical Research on Neurological Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China; Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory for Research on the Pathogenic Mechanisms of Neurological Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Daqing Kou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Tianbai Li
- Liaoning Provincial Center for Clinical Research on Neurological Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China; Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory for Research on the Pathogenic Mechanisms of Neurological Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Zhaofei Yang
- Liaoning Provincial Center for Clinical Research on Neurological Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China; Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory for Research on the Pathogenic Mechanisms of Neurological Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China
| | - Huishu Guo
- Central Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116021, China.
| | - Weidong Le
- Liaoning Provincial Center for Clinical Research on Neurological Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China; Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory for Research on the Pathogenic Mechanisms of Neurological Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China.
| | - Song Li
- Liaoning Provincial Center for Clinical Research on Neurological Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China; Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory for Research on the Pathogenic Mechanisms of Neurological Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China.
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20
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Down syndrome: Neurobiological alterations and therapeutic targets. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 98:234-255. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Revised: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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21
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Bhattacharjee M, Perumal E. Potential plant-derived catecholaminergic activity enhancers for neuropharmacological approaches: A review. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 55:148-164. [PMID: 30668425 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2018.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Catecholamines (CAs) have been reported to be involved in numerous functions including central nervous system. CA release from the intra neuronal storage vesicles aid in the therapy of various neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders where the catecholaminergic neurotransmission is compromised. Bioavailability of CA at the synapse can be increased through stimulated neurotransmitter release, monoamine oxidase and CA reuptake inhibition. Plant based galenicals are reported to have similar CA enhancement activities and have been used for the management of neurological disorders. AIM To review evidence-based literature with plant extracts, bioactive compounds, and composite extracts that modulate central catecholaminergic system, thereby enhancing CA activity for beneficial neurological effect. METHODS Electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect were used to search scientific contributions until January 2018, using relevant keywords. Literature focusing plant-derived CA enhancing compounds, extracts and/or composite extracts were identified and summarized. In all cases, dose, route of administration, the model system and type of extract were accounted. RESULTS A total of 49 plant extracts, 31 compounds and 16 herbal formulations have shown CA activity enhancement. Stimulated CA release from the storage vesicles, monoamine oxidase and CA reuptake inhibition were the major mechanisms involved in the increase of CA bioavailability by these phytoconstituents. CONCLUSION This review provides an overview on the phytoconstituents with CA enhancement property that have been used for neuropsychiatric disorders. Such herbal remedies will provide an avenue for cost effective and easily available medication which have holistic approach towards disease management. There is also scope for alternate medicines or prototype drug development utilizing these phytomedicines for treating neurodegenerative diseases. However, hurdles are to be met for analyzing the mode and mechanism of action associated with these phytomedicines and their proper scientific documentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monojit Bhattacharjee
- Defence Research and Development Organisation - Bharathiar University Center for Life Sciences (DRDO-BU CLS), Bharathiar University Campus, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641046, India
| | - Ekambaram Perumal
- Defence Research and Development Organisation - Bharathiar University Center for Life Sciences (DRDO-BU CLS), Bharathiar University Campus, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641046, India; Molecular Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641046, India.
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Abstract
Virtually all adults with Down syndrome (DS) show the neuropathological changes of Alzheimer disease (AD) by the age of 40 years. This association is partially due to overexpression of amyloid precursor protein, encoded by APP, as a result of the location of this gene on chromosome 21. Amyloid-β accumulates in the brain across the lifespan of people with DS, which provides a unique opportunity to understand the temporal progression of AD and the epigenetic factors that contribute to the age of dementia onset. This age dependency in the development of AD in DS can inform research into the presentation of AD in the general population, in whom a longitudinal perspective of the disease is not often available. Comparison of the risk profiles, biomarker profiles and genetic profiles of adults with DS with those of individuals with AD in the general population can help to determine common and distinct pathways as well as mechanisms underlying increased risk of dementia. This Review evaluates the similarities and differences between the pathological cascades and genetics underpinning DS and AD with the aim of providing a platform for common exploration of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ira T Lott
- Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
| | - Elizabeth Head
- Sanders Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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Phillips C, Fahimi A. Immune and Neuroprotective Effects of Physical Activity on the Brain in Depression. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:498. [PMID: 30093853 PMCID: PMC6070639 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Physical activity-a lifestyle factor that is associated with immune function, neuroprotection, and energy metabolism-modulates the cellular and molecular processes in the brain that are vital for emotional and cognitive health, collective mechanisms that can go awry in depression. Physical activity optimizes the stress response, neurotransmitter level and function (e.g., serotonergic, noradrenergic, dopaminergic, and glutamatergic), myokine production (e.g., interleukin-6), transcription factor levels and correlates [e.g., peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor C coactivator-1α [PGC-1α], mitochondrial density, nitric oxide pathway activity, Ca2+ signaling, reactive oxygen specie production, and AMP-activated protein kinase [AMPK] activity], kynurenine metabolites, glucose regulation, astrocytic health, and growth factors (e.g., brain-derived neurotrophic factor). Dysregulation of these interrelated processes can effectuate depression, a chronic mental illness that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Although the biogenic amine model has provided some clinical utility in understanding chronic depression, a need remains to better understand the interrelated mechanisms that contribute to immune dysfunction and the means by which various therapeutics mitigate them. Fortunately, convergent evidence suggests that physical activity improves emotional and cognitive function in persons with depression, particularly in those with comorbid inflammation. Accordingly, the aims of this review are to (1) underscore the link between inflammatory correlates and depression, (2) explicate immuno-neuroendocrine foundations, (3) elucidate evidence of neurotransmitter and cytokine crosstalk in depressive pathobiology, (4) determine the immunomodulatory effects of physical activity in depression, (5) examine protocols used to effectuate the positive effects of physical activity in depression, and (6) highlight implications for clinicians and scientists. It is our contention that a deeper understanding of the mechanisms by which inflammation contributes to the pathobiology of depression will translate to novel and more effective treatments, particularly by identifying relevant patient populations that can benefit from immune-based therapies within the context of personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristy Phillips
- Physical Therapy, Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR, United States
- Physical Therapy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
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London J, Rouch C, Bui LC, Assayag E, Souchet B, Daubigney F, Medjaoui H, Luquet S, Magnan C, Delabar JM, Dairou J, Janel N. Overexpression of the DYRK1A Gene (Dual-Specificity Tyrosine Phosphorylation-Regulated Kinase 1A) Induces Alterations of the Serotoninergic and Dopaminergic Processing in Murine Brain Tissues. Mol Neurobiol 2018; 55:3822-3831. [PMID: 28540658 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0591-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Trisomy 21 (T21) or Down syndrome (DS) is the most common genetic disorder associated with intellectual disability and affects around 5 million persons worldwide. Neuroanatomical phenotypes associated with T21 include slight reduction of brain size and weight, abnormalities in several brain areas including spines dysgenesis, dendritic morphogenesis, and early neuroanatomical characteristics of Alzheimer's disease. Monoamine neurotransmitters are involved in dendrites development, functioning of synapses, memory consolidation, and their levels measured in the cerebrospinal fluid, blood, or brain areas that are modified in individuals with T21. DYRK1A is one of the recognized key genes that could explain some of the deficits present in individuals with T21. We investigated by high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection the contents and processing of monoamines neurotransmitters in four brain areas of female and male transgenic mice for the Dyrk1a gene (mBactgDyrk1a). DYRK1A overexpression induced dramatic deficits in the serotonin contents of the four brain areas tested and major deficits in dopamine and adrenaline contents especially in the hypothalamus. These results suggest that DYRK1A overexpression might be associated with the modification of monoamines content found in individuals with T21 and reinforce the interest to target the level of DYRK1A expression as a therapeutic approach for persons with T21.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline London
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative (BFA), CNRS UMR 8251, F-75205, Paris, France.
| | - Claude Rouch
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative (BFA), CNRS UMR 8251, F-75205, Paris, France
| | - Linh Chi Bui
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative (BFA), CNRS UMR 8251, F-75205, Paris, France
| | - Elodie Assayag
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative (BFA), CNRS UMR 8251, F-75205, Paris, France
| | - Benoit Souchet
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative (BFA), CNRS UMR 8251, F-75205, Paris, France
| | - Fabrice Daubigney
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative (BFA), CNRS UMR 8251, F-75205, Paris, France
| | - Hind Medjaoui
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative (BFA), CNRS UMR 8251, F-75205, Paris, France
| | - Serge Luquet
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative (BFA), CNRS UMR 8251, F-75205, Paris, France
| | - Christophe Magnan
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative (BFA), CNRS UMR 8251, F-75205, Paris, France
| | - Jean Maurice Delabar
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative (BFA), CNRS UMR 8251, F-75205, Paris, France
- UMR S 1127, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, ICM, F-75013, Paris, France
| | - Julien Dairou
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative (BFA), CNRS UMR 8251, F-75205, Paris, France
- UMR 8601 CNRS, Université Paris Descartes, Paris Sorbonne Cité, 75270, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Janel
- Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Unité de Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative (BFA), CNRS UMR 8251, F-75205, Paris, France
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Kaczmarczyk R, Tejera D, Simon BJ, Heneka MT. Microglia modulation through external vagus nerve stimulation in a murine model of Alzheimer's disease. J Neurochem 2017; 146:76-85. [PMID: 29266221 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Revised: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Chronically activated microglia contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) by the release of pro-inflammatory mediators that compromise neuronal function and structure. Modulating microglia functions could be instrumental to interfere with disease pathogenesis. Previous studies have shown anti-inflammatory effects of acetylcholine (ACh) or norepinephrine (NE), which mainly activates the β-receptors on microglial cells. Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (nVNS) is used in treatment of drug-resistant depression, which is a risk factor for developing AD. The vagus nerve projects to the brainstem's locus coeruleus from which noradrenergic fibers reach to the Nucleus Basalis of Meynert (NBM) and widely throughout the brain. Pilot studies showed first signs of cognitive-enhancing effects of nVNS in AD patients. In this study, the effects of nVNS on mouse microglia cell morphology were analyzed over a period of 280 min by 2-photon laser scanning in vivo microscopy. Total branch length, average branch order and number of branches, which are commonly used indicators for the microglial activation state were determined and compared between young and old wild-type and amyloid precursor protein/presenilin-1 (APP/PS1) transgenic mice. Overall, these experiments show strong morphological changes in microglia, from a neurodestructive to a neuroprotective phenotype, following a brief nVNS in aged animals, especially in APP/PS1 animals, whereas microglia from young animals were morphologically unaffected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Kaczmarczyk
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease and Gerontopsychiatry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dario Tejera
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease and Gerontopsychiatry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Michael T Heneka
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease and Gerontopsychiatry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Caraci F, Iulita MF, Pentz R, Flores Aguilar L, Orciani C, Barone C, Romano C, Drago F, Cuello AC. Searching for new pharmacological targets for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease in Down syndrome. Eur J Pharmacol 2017; 817:7-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2017.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Monoaminergic impairment in Down syndrome with Alzheimer's disease compared to early-onset Alzheimer's disease. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA: DIAGNOSIS, ASSESSMENT & DISEASE MONITORING 2017; 10:99-111. [PMID: 29780859 PMCID: PMC5956808 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadm.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Introduction People with Down syndrome (DS) are at high risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Defects in monoamine neurotransmitter systems are implicated in DS and AD but have not been comprehensively studied in DS. Methods Noradrenaline, adrenaline, and their metabolite 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG); dopamine and its metabolites 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and homovanillic acid; and serotonin and its metabolite 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid were quantified in 15 brain regions of DS without AD (DS, n = 4), DS with AD (DS+AD, n = 17), early-onset AD (EOAD, n = 11) patients, and healthy non-DS controls (n = 10) in the general population. Moreover, monoaminergic concentrations were determined in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)/plasma samples of DS (n = 37/149), DS with prodromal AD (DS+pAD, n = 13/36), and DS+AD (n = 18/40). Results In brain, noradrenergic and serotonergic compounds were overall reduced in DS+AD versus EOAD, while the dopaminergic system showed a bidirectional change. For DS versus non-DS controls, significantly decreased MHPG levels were noted in various brain regions, though to a lesser extent than for DS+AD versus EOAD. Apart from DOPAC, CSF/plasma concentrations were not altered between groups. Discussion Monoamine neurotransmitters and metabolites were evidently impacted in DS, DS+AD, and EOAD. DS and DS+AD presented a remarkably similar monoaminergic profile, possibly related to early deposition of amyloid pathology in DS. To confirm whether monoaminergic alterations are indeed due to early amyloid β accumulation, future avenues include positron emission tomography studies of monoaminergic neurotransmission in relation to amyloid deposition, as well as relating monoaminergic concentrations to CSF/plasma levels of amyloid β and tau within individuals.
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Assessing disease-modifying effects of norepinephrine in Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease. Brain Res 2017; 1702:3-11. [PMID: 29102776 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2017.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Building upon the knowledge that a number of important brain circuits undergo significant degeneration in Alzheimer's disease, numerous recent studies suggest that the norepinephrine-ergic system in the brainstem undergoes significant alterations early in the course of both Alzheimer's disease and Down syndrome. Massive projections from locus coeruleus neurons to almost the entire brain, extensive innervation of brain capillaries, and widespread distribution of noradrenergic receptors enable the norepinephrine-ergic system to play a crucial role in neural processes, including cognitive function. These anatomical and functional characteristics support the role of the norepinephrine-ergic system as an important target for developing new therapies for cognitive dysfunction. Careful neuropathological examinations using postmortem samples from individuals with Alzheimer's disease have implicated the role of the norepinephrine-ergic system in the etiopathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, numerous studies have supported the existence of a strong interaction between norepinephrine-ergic and neuroimmune systems. We explore the interaction between the two systems that could play a role in the disease-modifying effects of norepinephrine in Alzheimer's disease and Down syndrome.
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Betts MJ, Cardenas-Blanco A, Kanowski M, Jessen F, Düzel E. In vivo MRI assessment of the human locus coeruleus along its rostrocaudal extent in young and older adults. Neuroimage 2017; 163:150-159. [PMID: 28943414 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2017.09.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Revised: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The locus coeruleus (LC), a major origin of noradrenergic projections in the central nervous system (CNS), may serve a critical role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). As such, there is considerable interest to develop magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques to assess the integrity of the LC in vivo. The high neuromelanin content of the LC serves as an endogenous contrast for MRI but existing protocols suffer from low spatial resolution along the rostrocaudal axis of the LC rendering it difficult to differentiate its integrity in caudal and rostral portions. This study presents a novel approach to investigate the human LC in vivo using T1-weighted Fast Low Angle Shot (FLASH) MRI at 3 T (T). Using high-resolution isotropic imaging to minimise the effect of low spatial resolution in the slice direction, this study aimed to characterise the rostrocaudal distribution of LC signal intensity attributed to neuromelanin from 25 young (22-30) and 57 older (61-80) adults. We found a significant age-related increase in maximum but not median signal intensity, indicating age-related differences were not homogenous. Instead, they were confined to the rostral third of the LC with relative sparing of the caudal portion. The findings presented demonstrate in vivo T1-weighted FLASH imaging may be used to characterise signal intensity changes across the entire rostrocaudal length of the LC (a corresponding standardised LC map is available for download), which may help to identify how the human LC is differentially affected in aging and neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Betts
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Arturo Cardenas-Blanco
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Martin Kanowski
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Magdeburg, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Frank Jessen
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany; Department of Psychiatry, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Emrah Düzel
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, 17 Queen Square, London, UK
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Giorgi FS, Ryskalin L, Ruffoli R, Biagioni F, Limanaqi F, Ferrucci M, Busceti CL, Bonuccelli U, Fornai F. The Neuroanatomy of the Reticular Nucleus Locus Coeruleus in Alzheimer's Disease. Front Neuroanat 2017; 11:80. [PMID: 28974926 PMCID: PMC5610679 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2017.00080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) features the accumulation of β-amyloid and Tau aggregates, which deposit as extracellular plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), respectively. Neuronal Tau aggregates may appear early in life, in the absence of clinical symptoms. This occurs in the brainstem reticular formation and mostly within Locus Coeruleus (LC), which is consistently affected during AD. LC is the main source of forebrain norepinephrine (NE) and it modulates a variety of functions including sleep-waking cycle, alertness, synaptic plasticity, and memory. The iso-dendritic nature of LC neurons allows their axons to spread NE throughout the whole forebrain. Likewise, a prion-like hypothesis suggests that Tau aggregates may travel along LC axons to reach out cortical neurons. Despite this timing is compatible with cross-sectional studies, there is no actual evidence for a causal relationship between these events. In the present mini-review, we dedicate special emphasis to those various mechanisms that may link degeneration of LC neurons to the onset of AD pathology. This includes the hypothesis that a damage to LC neurons contributes to the onset of dementia due to a loss of neuroprotective effects or, even the chance that, LC degenerates independently from cortical pathology. At the same time, since LC neurons are lost in a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders we considered which molecular mechanism may render these brainstem neurons so vulnerable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo S Giorgi
- Section of Neurology, Pisa University Hospital, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - Larisa Ryskalin
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - Riccardo Ruffoli
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of PisaPisa, Italy
| | | | - Fiona Limanaqi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - Michela Ferrucci
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of PisaPisa, Italy
| | | | - Ubaldo Bonuccelli
- Section of Neurology, Pisa University Hospital, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - Francesco Fornai
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of PisaPisa, Italy.,I.R.C.C.S. I.N.M. NeuromedPozzilli, Italy
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Wu LL, Gong W, Shen SP, Wang ZH, Yao JX, Wang J, Yu J, Gao R, Wu G. Multiple metal exposures and their correlation with monoamine neurotransmitter metabolism in Chinese electroplating workers. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 182:745-752. [PMID: 28535482 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.04.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Revised: 04/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/23/2017] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Excessive metal exposure has been recognized as one of the detrimental factors for brain damage. However, the potential adverse effects induced by heavy metals on monoamine neurotransmitter pathways remains poorly understood. Our study aimed to investigate the possible association between metal exposure and neurotransmitter metabolism. By a cross-sectional investigation, 224 electroplating workers and 213 non-electroplating exposure workers were recruited in the exposure and control groups. Metal exposure levels were analyzed using inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry and monoamine neurotransmitter pathway metabolites were measured by ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry in human urine samples. Multivariate linear regression model was used to assess the dose-response relationships of urinary metals and neurotransmitter pathway metabolites. Significant dose-dependent trends of urinary vanadium quartiles with all metabolites were observed, and the trends demonstrated significance after multiple testing correction. It also showed that urinary chromium levels were significantly associated with decreased serotonin level and cadmium was positively associated with norepinephrine and epinephrine. In addition, arsenic was positively associated with tryptophan, serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. Iron was positively associated with increased homovanillic acid (HVA) and epinephrine while nickel was negatively associated with increased epinephrine levels. Zinc was positively related to tryptophan, kynurenin (KYN), 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA), dopamine, HVA and norepinephrine. There was no significant association between urinary copper with any other metabolites after adjusting of multiple metal models. Metal exposure may be associated with neurotransmitter metabolism disturbances. The present work is expected to provide some support in the prevention and management of metal-associated neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Lin Wu
- Department of Hygienic Analysis and Detection, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Gong
- Jiangsu Provincial Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Si-Peng Shen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhong-He Wang
- Department of Hygienic Analysis and Detection, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jia-Xi Yao
- Department of Hygienic Analysis and Detection, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Key Lab of Modern Toxicology, Ministry of Education, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Yu
- Department of Hygienic Analysis and Detection, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rong Gao
- Department of Hygienic Analysis and Detection, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Gang Wu
- Changzhou Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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Ghasemi M, Phillips C, Fahimi A, McNerney MW, Salehi A. Mechanisms of action and clinical efficacy of NMDA receptor modulators in mood disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2017; 80:555-572. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Phillips C. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Depression, and Physical Activity: Making the Neuroplastic Connection. Neural Plast 2017; 2017:7260130. [PMID: 28928987 PMCID: PMC5591905 DOI: 10.1155/2017/7260130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 240] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin that is vital to the survival, growth, and maintenance of neurons in key brain circuits involved in emotional and cognitive function. Convergent evidence indicates that neuroplastic mechanisms involving BDNF are deleteriously altered in major depressive disorder (MDD) and animal models of stress. Herein, clinical and preclinical evidence provided that stress-induced depressive pathology contributes to altered BDNF level and function in persons with MDD and, thereby, disruptions in neuroplasticity at the regional and circuit level. Conversely, effective therapeutics that mitigate depressive-related symptoms (e.g., antidepressants and physical activity) optimize BDNF in key brain regions, promote neuronal health and recovery of function in MDD-related circuits, and enhance pharmacotherapeutic response. A greater knowledge of the interrelationship between BDNF, depression, therapeutic mechanisms of action, and neuroplasticity is important as it necessarily precedes the derivation and deployment of more efficacious treatments.
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Abstract
Altered concentrations of monoamine neurotransmitters and metabolites have been repeatedly found in people with Down syndrome (DS, trisomy 21). Because of the limited availability of human post-mortem tissue, DS mouse models are of great interest to study these changes and the underlying neurobiological mechanisms. Although previous studies have shown the potential of Ts65Dn mice – the most widely used mouse model of DS – to model noradrenergic changes, a comprehensive monoaminergic characterization in multiple brain regions has not been performed so far. Here, we used RP-HPLC with electrochemical detection to quantify (nor)adrenergic (NA, adrenaline and MHPG), dopaminergic (DA, HVA and DOPAC), and serotonergic compounds (tryptophan, 5-HT and 5-HIAA) in ten regionally dissected brain regions of Ts65Dn mice, as well as in Dp1Tyb mice – a novel DS mouse model. Comparing young adult aneuploid mice (2.5–5.5 months) with their euploid WT littermates did not reveal generalized monoaminergic dysregulation, indicating that the genetic overload in these mice barely affected the absolute concentrations at this age. Moreover, we studied the effect of aging in Ts65Dn mice: comparing aged animals (12–13 months) with their younger counterparts revealed a large number of significant changes. In general, the (nor)adrenergic system appeared to be reduced, while serotonergic compounds were increased with aging. Dopaminergic alterations were less consistent. These overall patterns appeared to be relatively similar for Ts65Dn and WT mice, though more observed changes were regarded significant for WT mice. Similar human post-mortem studies are necessary to validate the monoaminergic construct validity of the Ts65Dn and Dp1Typ mouse models. Monoamine neurotransmitters and metabolites appear to be altered in Down syndrome. The monoaminergic brain profile of two Down syndrome mouse models was examined. Aneuploidy barely affected monoamines in Ts65Dn and Dp1Tyb mice vs. wild-type mice. Aging to 12–13 months showed strong monoaminergic changes in the Ts65Dn mouse model. Construct validity needs to be established by similar human post-mortem studies.
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Phillips C. Lifestyle Modulators of Neuroplasticity: How Physical Activity, Mental Engagement, and Diet Promote Cognitive Health during Aging. Neural Plast 2017; 2017:3589271. [PMID: 28695017 PMCID: PMC5485368 DOI: 10.1155/2017/3589271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2017] [Revised: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 05/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of the elderly across the globe will approximate 2.1 billion by 2050. Juxtaposed against this burgeoning segment of the population is evidence that nonpathological aging is associated with an increased risk for cognitive decline in a variety of domains, changes that can cause mild disability even before the onset of dementia. Given that pharmacological treatments that mitigate dementia are still outstanding, alternative therapeutic options are being investigated increasingly. The results from translational studies have shown that modifiable lifestyle factors-including physical activity, cognitive engagement, and diet-are a key strategy for maintaining brain health during aging. Indeed, a multiplicity of studies has demonstrated relationships between lifestyle factors, brain structure and function, and cognitive function in aging adults. For example, physical activity and diet modulate common neuroplasticity substrates (neurotrophic signaling, neurogenesis, inflammation, stress response, and antioxidant defense) in the brain whereas cognitive engagement enhances brain and cognitive reserve. The aims of this review are to evaluate the relationship between modifiable lifestyle factors, neuroplasticity, and optimal brain health during aging; to identify putative mechanisms that contribute positive brain aging; and to highlight future directions for scientists and clinicians. Undoubtedly, the translation of cutting-edge knowledge derived from the field of cognitive neuroscience will advance our understanding and enhance clinical treatment interventions as we endeavor to promote brain health during aging.
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Iatrou A, Kenis G, Rutten BPF, Lunnon K, van den Hove DLA. Epigenetic dysregulation of brainstem nuclei in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease: looking in the correct place at the right time? Cell Mol Life Sci 2017; 74:509-523. [PMID: 27628303 PMCID: PMC5241349 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-016-2361-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Revised: 08/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Even though the etiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains unknown, it is suggested that an interplay among genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors is involved. An increasing body of evidence pinpoints that dysregulation in the epigenetic machinery plays a role in AD. Recent developments in genomic technologies have allowed for high throughput interrogation of the epigenome, and epigenome-wide association studies have already identified unique epigenetic signatures for AD in the cortex. Considerable evidence suggests that early dysregulation in the brainstem, more specifically in the raphe nuclei and the locus coeruleus, accounts for the most incipient, non-cognitive symptomatology, indicating a potential causal relationship with the pathogenesis of AD. Here we review the advancements in epigenomic technologies and their application to the AD research field, particularly with relevance to the brainstem. In this respect, we propose the assessment of epigenetic signatures in the brainstem as the cornerstone of interrogating causality in AD. Understanding how epigenetic dysregulation in the brainstem contributes to AD susceptibility could be of pivotal importance for understanding the etiology of the disease and for the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Iatrou
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - G Kenis
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - B P F Rutten
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - K Lunnon
- University of Exeter Medical School, RILD, University of Exeter, Barrack Road, Devon, UK
| | - D L A van den Hove
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
- Laboratory of Translational Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Wuerzburg, Fuechsleinstrasse 15, 97080, Würzburg, Germany.
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Kelly SC, He B, Perez SE, Ginsberg SD, Mufson EJ, Counts SE. Locus coeruleus cellular and molecular pathology during the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2017; 5:8. [PMID: 28109312 PMCID: PMC5251221 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-017-0411-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A major feature of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the loss of noradrenergic locus coeruleus (LC) projection neurons that mediate attention, memory, and arousal. However, the extent to which the LC projection system degenerates during the initial stages of AD is still under investigation. To address this question, we performed tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunohistochemistry and unbiased stereology of noradrenergic LC neurons in tissue harvested postmortem from subjects who died with a clinical diagnosis of no cognitive impairment (NCI), amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI, a putative prodromal AD stage), or mild/moderate AD. Stereologic estimates of total LC neuron number revealed a 30% loss during the transition from NCI to aMCI, with an additional 25% loss of LC neurons in AD. Decreases in noradrenergic LC neuron number were significantly associated with worsening antemortem global cognitive function as well as poorer performance on neuropsychological tests of episodic memory, semantic memory, working memory, perceptual speed, and visuospatial ability. Reduced LC neuron numbers were also associated with increased postmortem neuropathology. To examine the cellular and molecular pathogenic processes underlying LC neurodegeneration in aMCI, we performed single population microarray analysis. These studies revealed significant reductions in select functional classes of mRNAs regulating mitochondrial respiration, redox homeostasis, and neuritic structural plasticity in neurons accessed from both aMCI and AD subjects compared to NCI. Specific gene expression levels within these functional classes were also associated with global cognitive deterioration and neuropathological burden. Taken together, these observations suggest that noradrenergic LC cellular and molecular pathology is a prominent feature of prodromal disease that contributes to cognitive dysfunction. Moreover, they lend support to a rational basis for targeting LC neuroprotection as a disease modifying strategy.
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Atzori M, Cuevas-Olguin R, Esquivel-Rendon E, Garcia-Oscos F, Salgado-Delgado RC, Saderi N, Miranda-Morales M, Treviño M, Pineda JC, Salgado H. Locus Ceruleus Norepinephrine Release: A Central Regulator of CNS Spatio-Temporal Activation? Front Synaptic Neurosci 2016; 8:25. [PMID: 27616990 PMCID: PMC4999448 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2016.00025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Norepinephrine (NE) is synthesized in the Locus Coeruleus (LC) of the brainstem, from where it is released by axonal varicosities throughout the brain via volume transmission. A wealth of data from clinics and from animal models indicates that this catecholamine coordinates the activity of the central nervous system (CNS) and of the whole organism by modulating cell function in a vast number of brain areas in a coordinated manner. The ubiquity of NE receptors, the daunting number of cerebral areas regulated by the catecholamine, as well as the variety of cellular effects and of their timescales have contributed so far to defeat the attempts to integrate central adrenergic function into a unitary and coherent framework. Since three main families of NE receptors are represented-in order of decreasing affinity for the catecholamine-by: α2 adrenoceptors (α2Rs, high affinity), α1 adrenoceptors (α1Rs, intermediate affinity), and β adrenoceptors (βRs, low affinity), on a pharmacological basis, and on the ground of recent studies on cellular and systemic central noradrenergic effects, we propose that an increase in LC tonic activity promotes the emergence of four global states covering the whole spectrum of brain activation: (1) sleep: virtual absence of NE, (2) quiet wake: activation of α2Rs, (3) active wake/physiological stress: activation of α2- and α1-Rs, (4) distress: activation of α2-, α1-, and β-Rs. We postulate that excess intensity and/or duration of states (3) and (4) may lead to maladaptive plasticity, causing-in turn-a variety of neuropsychiatric illnesses including depression, schizophrenic psychoses, anxiety disorders, and attention deficit. The interplay between tonic and phasic LC activity identified in the LC in relationship with behavioral response is of critical importance in defining the short- and long-term biological mechanisms associated with the basic states postulated for the CNS. While the model has the potential to explain a large number of experimental and clinical findings, a major challenge will be to adapt this hypothesis to integrate the role of other neurotransmitters released during stress in a centralized fashion, like serotonin, acetylcholine, and histamine, as well as those released in a non-centralized fashion, like purines and cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Atzori
- Neurobiology of Stress Laboratory, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis PotosíSan Luis Potosí, Mexico; School for Behavior and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at DallasRichardson, TX, USA
| | - Roberto Cuevas-Olguin
- Neurobiology of Stress Laboratory, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí San Luis Potosí, Mexico
| | - Eric Esquivel-Rendon
- Neurobiology of Stress Laboratory, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí San Luis Potosí, Mexico
| | | | - Roberto C Salgado-Delgado
- Neurobiology of Stress Laboratory, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí San Luis Potosí, Mexico
| | - Nadia Saderi
- Neurobiology of Stress Laboratory, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí San Luis Potosí, Mexico
| | - Marcela Miranda-Morales
- Neurobiology of Stress Laboratory, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí San Luis Potosí, Mexico
| | - Mario Treviño
- Laboratory of Cortical Plasticity and Learning, Universidad de Guadalajara Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Juan C Pineda
- Electrophysiology Laboratory, Centro de Investigaciones Regionales "Dr. Hideyo Noguchi", Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán Mérida, Mexico
| | - Humberto Salgado
- Electrophysiology Laboratory, Centro de Investigaciones Regionales "Dr. Hideyo Noguchi", Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán Mérida, Mexico
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Whissell PD, Tohyama S, Martin LJ. The Use of DREADDs to Deconstruct Behavior. Front Genet 2016; 7:70. [PMID: 27242888 PMCID: PMC4868840 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2016.00070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
A central goal in understanding brain function is to link specific cell populations to behavioral outputs. In recent years, the selective targeting of specific neural circuits has been made possible with the development of new experimental approaches, including chemogenetics. This technique allows for the control of molecularly defined subsets of cells through engineered G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), which have the ability to activate or silence neuronal firing. Through chemogenetics, neural circuits are being linked to behavioral outputs at an unprecedented rate. Further, the coupling of chemogenetics with imaging techniques to monitor neural activity in freely moving animals now makes it possible to deconstruct the complex whole-brain networks that are fundamental to behavioral states. In this review, we highlight a specific chemogenetic application known as DREADDs (designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs). DREADDs are used ubiquitously to modulate GPCR activity in vivo and have been widely applied in the basic sciences, particularly in the field of behavioral neuroscience. Here, we focus on the impact and utility of DREADD technology in dissecting the neural circuitry of various behaviors including memory, cognition, reward, feeding, anxiety and pain. By using DREADDs to monitor the electrophysiological, biochemical, and behavioral outputs of specific neuronal types, researchers can better understand the links between brain activity and behavior. Additionally, DREADDs are useful in studying the pathogenesis of disease and may ultimately have therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul D Whissell
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sarasa Tohyama
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Loren J Martin
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga Mississauga, ON, Canada
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Feinstein DL, Kalinin S, Braun D. Causes, consequences, and cures for neuroinflammation mediated via the locus coeruleus: noradrenergic signaling system. J Neurochem 2016; 139 Suppl 2:154-178. [PMID: 26968403 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Revised: 11/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Aside from its roles in as a classical neurotransmitter involved in regulation of behavior, noradrenaline (NA) has other functions in the CNS. This includes restricting the development of neuroinflammatory activation, providing neurotrophic support to neurons, and providing neuroprotection against oxidative stress. In recent years, it has become evident that disruption of physiological NA levels or signaling is a contributing factor to a variety of neurological diseases and conditions including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Multiple Sclerosis. The basis for dysregulation in these diseases is, in many cases, due to damage occurring to noradrenergic neurons present in the locus coeruleus (LC), the major source of NA in the CNS. LC damage is present in AD, multiple sclerosis, and a large number of other diseases and conditions. Studies using animal models have shown that experimentally induced lesion of LC neurons exacerbates neuropathology while treatments to compensate for NA depletion, or to reduce LC neuronal damage, provide benefit. In this review, we will summarize the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective actions of NA, summarize examples of how LC damage worsens disease, and discuss several approaches taken to treat or prevent reductions in NA levels and LC neuronal damage. Further understanding of these events will be of value for the development of treatments for AD, multiple sclerosis, and other diseases and conditions having a neuroinflammatory component. The classical neurotransmitter noradrenaline (NA) has critical roles in modulating behaviors including those involved in sleep, anxiety, and depression. However, NA can also elicit anti-inflammatory responses in glial cells, can increase neuronal viability by inducing neurotrophic factor expression, and can reduce neuronal damage due to oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals. NA is primarily produced by tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expressing neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC), a relatively small brainstem nucleus near the IVth ventricle which sends projections throughout the brain and spinal cord. It has been known for close to 50 years that LC neurons are lost during normal aging, and that loss is exacerbated in neurological diseases including Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. LC neuronal damage and glial activation has now been documented in a variety of other neurological conditions and diseases, however, the causes of LC damage and cell loss remain largely unknown. A number of approaches have been developed to address the loss of NA and increased inflammation associated with LC damage, and several methods are being explored to directly minimize the extent of LC neuronal cell loss or function. In this review, we will summarize some of the consequences of LC loss, consider several factors that likely contribute to that loss, and discuss various ways that have been used to increase NA or to reduce LC damage. This article is part of the 60th Anniversary special issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas L Feinstein
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA. .,Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Sergey Kalinin
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA.,Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - David Braun
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA.,Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
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Salehi A, Ashford JW, Mufson EJ. The Link between Alzheimer's Disease and Down Syndrome. A Historical Perspective. Curr Alzheimer Res 2016; 13:2-6. [PMID: 26487155 PMCID: PMC6368451 DOI: 10.2174/1567205012999151021102914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elliott J Mufson
- Barrow Neurological Institute, Dept. Neurobiology, Phoenix, AZ 85031, USA.
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