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Anwar A, Ramis De Ayreflor Reyes S, John AA, Breiling E, O'Connor AM, Reis S, Shim JH, Shah AA, Srinivasan J, Farny NG. Nucleic acid aptamers protect against lead (Pb(II)) toxicity. N Biotechnol 2024; 83:36-45. [PMID: 38925526 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbt.2024.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Lead (Pb(II)) is a pervasive heavy metal toxin with many well-established negative effects on human health. Lead toxicity arises from cumulative, repeated environmental exposures. Thus, prophylactic strategies to protect against the bioaccumulation of lead could reduce lead-associated human pathologies. Here we show that DNA and RNA aptamers protect C. elegans from toxic phenotypes caused by lead. Reproductive toxicity, as measured by brood size assays, is prevented by co-feeding of animals with DNA or RNA aptamers. Similarly, lead-induced neurotoxicity, measured by behavioral assays, are also normalized by aptamer feeding. Further, cultured human HEK293 and primary murine osteoblasts are protected from lead toxicity by transfection with DNA aptamers. The osteogenic development, which is decreased by lead exposure, is maintained by prior transfection of lead-binding DNA aptamers. Aptamers may be an effective strategy for the protection of human health in the face of increasing environmental toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afreen Anwar
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA; Department of Biotechnology, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri, J&K, India
| | | | - Aijaz Ahmad John
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Erik Breiling
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA
| | - Abigail M O'Connor
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA
| | - Stephanie Reis
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA
| | - Jae-Hyuck Shim
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA; Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ali Asghar Shah
- Department of Biotechnology, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri, J&K, India
| | - Jagan Srinivasan
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA; Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA; Program in Neuroscience, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA
| | - Natalie G Farny
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA; Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA; Program in Neuroscience, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA 01609, USA.
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2
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Duan H, Yu Q, Ni Y, Li J, Yu L, Yan X, Fan L. Synergistic anti-aging effect of Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide and spermidine: A metabolomics analysis focusing on the regulation of lipid, nucleotide and energy metabolism. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 278:135098. [PMID: 39197612 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.135098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024]
Abstract
The importance of synergy has been underscored in recent medical research for augmenting the efficacy of therapeutic interventions, targeting multiple biological pathways simultaneously. Our prior research elucidated that Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide (DOP) has the potential to prolong the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) via regulating gut microbiota. Concurrently, spermidine (Spd), as a mimicking caloric restriction, facilitates autophagy and exerts a pronounced anti-aging effect. To enhance the anti-aging capabilities of DOP, we conducted a comprehensive study examining the combined effects of DOP and Spd in C. elegans, incorporating metabolomics analysis to investigate the underlying mechanisms. A combination of 250 mg/L DOP and 29.0 mg/L Spd yielded the most favorable outcomes in lifespan extension, evidencing a synergistic effect with a combination index (CI) of 0.65. In oxidative and heat stress tolerance assays, the observed CIs were 0.50 and 0.33, respectively. Metabolomic analysis highlighted significant alterations in metabolites related to lipid, nucleotide and energy metabolism, notably regulating glycerol 3-phosphate, linoleoyl glycerol, docosapentaenoic acid and β-nicotinamide mononucleotide, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide. The effects of DS on lipid metabolism were further validated using Oil Red O staining and triglyceride level in C. elegans. The results indicated that DS may primarily be via modulating lipid metabolism. To further confirm these findings, a high-fat diet-induced mouse model was employed. Consequently, it can be inferred that the synergistic anti-aging impact of DOP and Spd is likely mediated primarily through alterations in lipid metabolic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Qun Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Yang Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Jinwei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China
| | - Leilei Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China.
| | - Xiaowei Yan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Health Care Food Science and Technology, Hezhou University, Hezhou, Guangxi 542899, China.
| | - Liuping Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China; School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China; National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China.
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3
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Kumar A, Saha MK, Kumar V, Bhattacharya A, Barge S, Mukherjee AK, Kalita MC, Khan MR. Heat-killed probiotic Levilactobacillus brevis MKAK9 and its exopolysaccharide promote longevity by modulating aging hallmarks and enhancing immune responses in Caenorhabditis elegans. Immun Ageing 2024; 21:52. [PMID: 39095841 PMCID: PMC11295351 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-024-00457-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proteostasis is a critical aging hallmark responsible for removing damaged or misfolded proteins and their aggregates by improving proteasomal degradation through the autophagy-lysosome pathway (ALP) and the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). Research on the impact of heat-killed probiotic bacteria and their structural components on aging hallmarks and innate immune responses is scarce, yet enhancing these effects could potentially delay age-related diseases. RESULTS This study introduces a novel heat-killed Levilactobacillus brevis strain MKAK9 (HK MKAK9), along with its exopolysaccharide (EPS), demonstrating their ability to extend longevity by improving proteostasis and immune responses in wild-type Caenorhabditis elegans. We elucidate the underlying mechanisms through a comprehensive approach involving mRNA- and small RNA sequencing, proteomic analysis, lifespan assays on loss-of-function mutants, and quantitative RT-PCR. Mechanistically, HK MKAK9 and its EPS resulted in downregulation of the insulin-like signaling pathway in a DAF-16-dependent manner, enhancing protein ubiquitination and subsequent proteasomal degradation through activation of the ALP pathway, which is partially mediated by microRNA mir-243. Importantly, autophagosomes engulf ubiquitinylated proteins, as evidenced by increased expression of the autophagy receptor sqst-3, and subsequently fuse with lysosomes, facilitated by increased levels of the lysosome-associated membrane protein (LAMP) lmp-1, suggesting the formation of autolysosomes for degradation of the selected cargo. Moreover, HK MKAK9 and its EPS activated the p38 MAPK pathway and its downstream SKN-1 transcription factor, which are known to regulate genes involved in innate immune response (thn-1, ilys-1, cnc-2, spp-9, spp-21, clec-47, and clec-266) and antioxidation (sod-3 and gst-44), thereby reducing the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) at both cellular and mitochondrial levels. Notably, SOD-3 emerged as a transcriptional target of both DAF-16 and SKN-1 transcription factors. CONCLUSION Our research sets a benchmark for future investigations by demonstrating that heat-killed probiotic and its specific cellular component, EPS, can downregulate the insulin-signaling pathway, potentially improving the autophagy-lysosome pathway (ALP) for degrading ubiquitinylated proteins and promoting organismal longevity. Additionally, we discovered that increased expression of microRNA mir-243 regulates insulin-like signaling and its downstream ALP pathway. Our findings also indicate that postbiotic treatment may bolster antioxidative and innate immune responses, offering a promising avenue for interventions in aging-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun Kumar
- Molecular Biology and Microbial Biotechnology Laboratory, Division of Life Sciences, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Assam, Guwahati-781035, India
| | | | - Vipin Kumar
- Application Specialist, Research Business Cytiva, Gurugram, Haryana, India
| | - Anupam Bhattacharya
- Molecular Biology and Microbial Biotechnology Laboratory, Division of Life Sciences, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Assam, Guwahati-781035, India
| | - Sagar Barge
- Molecular Biology and Microbial Biotechnology Laboratory, Division of Life Sciences, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Assam, Guwahati-781035, India
| | - Ashis K Mukherjee
- Division of Life Sciences, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Assam, Guwahati-781035, India
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, School of Sciences, Tezpur University, Tezpur, Assam, 784028, India
| | - Mohan C Kalita
- Department of Biotechnology, Gauhati University, Guwahati, Assam, 781014, India
| | - Mojibur R Khan
- Molecular Biology and Microbial Biotechnology Laboratory, Division of Life Sciences, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Assam, Guwahati-781035, India.
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Wang Q, Lan X, Ke H, Xu S, Huang C, Wang J, Wang X, Huang T, Wu X, Chen M, Guo Y, Zeng L, Tian XL, Xiang Y. Histone β-hydroxybutyrylation is critical in reversal of sarcopenia. Aging Cell 2024:e14284. [PMID: 39076122 DOI: 10.1111/acel.14284] [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: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Sarcopenia, a leading cause for global disability and mortality, is an age-related muscular disorder, characterized by accelerated muscle mass loss and functional decline. It is known that caloric restriction (CR), ketogenic diet or endurance exercise lessen sarcopenia and elevate circulating β-hydroxybutyrate (β-HB) levels. Whether the elevated β-HB is essential to the reversal of sarcopenia, however, remains unclear. Here we show in both Caenorhabditis elegans and mouse models that an increase of β-HB reverse myofiber atrophy and improves motor functions at advanced ages. β-HB-induced histone lysine β-hydroxybutyrylation (Kbhb) is indispensable for the reversal of sarcopenia. Histone Kbhb enhances transcription of genes associated with mitochondrial pathways, including oxidative phosphorylation, ATP metabolic process and aerobic respiration. This ultimately leads to improve mitochondrial integrity and enhance mitochondrial respiration. The histone Kbhb are validated in mouse model with CR. Thus, we demonstrate that β-HB induces histone Kbhb, increases mitochondrial function, and reverses sarcopenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiquan Wang
- Metabolic Control and Aging, Human Aging Research Institute and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, and Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Aging and Diseases, Nanchang, China
| | - Xinqiang Lan
- Metabolic Control and Aging, Human Aging Research Institute and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, and Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Aging and Diseases, Nanchang, China
| | - Hao Ke
- Metabolic Control and Aging, Human Aging Research Institute and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, and Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Aging and Diseases, Nanchang, China
| | - Siman Xu
- Metabolic Control and Aging, Human Aging Research Institute and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, and Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Aging and Diseases, Nanchang, China
| | - Chunping Huang
- Metabolic Control and Aging, Human Aging Research Institute and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, and Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Aging and Diseases, Nanchang, China
| | - Jiali Wang
- Metabolic Control and Aging, Human Aging Research Institute and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, and Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Aging and Diseases, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Metabolic Control and Aging, Human Aging Research Institute and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, and Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Aging and Diseases, Nanchang, China
| | - Tiane Huang
- Metabolic Control and Aging, Human Aging Research Institute and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, and Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Aging and Diseases, Nanchang, China
| | - Xia Wu
- Metabolic Control and Aging, Human Aging Research Institute and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, and Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Aging and Diseases, Nanchang, China
| | - Mengxin Chen
- Metabolic Control and Aging, Human Aging Research Institute and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, and Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Aging and Diseases, Nanchang, China
| | - Yingqi Guo
- Institutional Center for Shared Technologies and Facilities of the Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Lin Zeng
- Institutional Center for Shared Technologies and Facilities of the Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Xiao-Li Tian
- Aging and Vascular Diseases, Human Aging Research Institute and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, and Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Aging and Diseases, Nanchang, China
| | - Yang Xiang
- Metabolic Control and Aging, Human Aging Research Institute and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, and Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Aging and Diseases, Nanchang, China
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Kanungo J, Sorkin BC, Krzykwa J, Mitchell CA, Embry M, Spencer P, Harry GJ, Cannon J, Liu F, McPherson CA, Gafner S, Westerink RHS. Screening tools to evaluate the neurotoxic potential of botanicals: building a strategy to assess safety. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2024; 20:629-646. [PMID: 38984683 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2024.2378895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
AREAS COVERED This paper outlines the selection of NAMs, including in vitro assays using primary rat cortical neurons, zebrafish embryos, and Caenorhabditis elegans. These assays aim to assess neurotoxic endpoints such as neuronal activity and behavioral responses. Microelectrode array recordings of rat cortical neurons provide insights into the impact of botanical extracts on neuronal function, while the zebrafish embryos and C. elegans assays evaluate neurobehavioral responses. The paper also provides an account of the selection of botanical case studies based on expert judgment and existing neuroactivity/toxicity information. The proposed battery of assays will be tested with these case studies to evaluate their utility for neurotoxicity screening. EXPERT OPINION The complexity of botanicals necessitates the use of multiple NAMs for effective neurotoxicity screening. This paper discusses the evaluation of methodologies to develop a robust framework for evaluating botanical safety, including complex neuronal models and key neurodevelopmental process assays. It aims to establish a comprehensive screening framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotshna Kanungo
- Division of Neurotoxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR, USA
| | - Barbara C Sorkin
- Office of Dietary Supplements, Division of Program Coordination, Planning, and Strategic Initiatives, U.S. National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Julie Krzykwa
- Health and Environmental Sciences Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Michelle Embry
- Health and Environmental Sciences Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Peter Spencer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - G Jean Harry
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jason Cannon
- Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Fang Liu
- Division of Neurotoxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR, USA
| | - Christopher A McPherson
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Remco H S Westerink
- Division of Toxicology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Chen X, Bahramimehr F, Shahhamzehei N, Fu H, Lin S, Wang H, Li C, Efferth T, Hong C. Anti-aging effects of medicinal plants and their rapid screening using the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 129:155665. [PMID: 38768535 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aging is the primary risk factor of most chronic diseases in humans, including cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis and neurodegenerative diseases, which extensively damage the quality of life for elderly individuals. Aging is a multifaceted process with numerous factors affecting it. Efficient model organisms are essential for the research and development of anti-aging agents, particularly when investigating pharmacological mechanisms are needed. PURPOSE This review discusses the application of Caenorhabditis elegans for studying aging and its related signaling pathways, and presents an overview of studies exploring the mechanism and screening of anti-aging agents in C. elegans. Additionally, the review summarizes related clinical trials of anti-aging agents to inspire the development of new medications. METHOD Literature was searched, analyzed, and collected using PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct. The search terms used were "anti-aging", "medicinal plants", "synthetic compounds", "C. elegans", "signal pathway", etc. Several combinations of these keywords were used. Studies conducted in C. elegans or humans were included. Articles were excluded, if they were on studies conducted in silico or in vitro or could not offer effective data. RESULTS Four compounds mainly derived through synthesis (metformin, rapamycin, nicotinamide mononucleotide, alpha-ketoglutarate) and four active ingredients chiefly obtained from plants (resveratrol, quercetin, Astragalus polysaccharide, ginsenosides) are introduced emphatically. These compounds and active ingredients exhibit potential anti-aging effects in preclinical and clinical studies. The screening of these anti-aging agents and the investigation of their pharmacological mechanisms can benefit from the use of C. elegans. CONCLUSION Medicinal plants provide valuable resource for the treatment of diseases. A wide source of raw materials for the particular plant medicinal compounds having anti-aging effects meet diverse pharmaceutical requirements, such as immunomodulatory, anti-inflammation and alleviating oxidative stress. C. elegans possesses advantages in scientific research including short life cycle, small size, easy maintenance, genetic tractability and conserved biological processes related to aging. C. elegans can be used for the efficient and rapid evaluation of compounds with the potential to slow down aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Faranak Bahramimehr
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Nasim Shahhamzehei
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Huangjie Fu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Siyi Lin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Hanxiao Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Changyu Li
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China.
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany.
| | - Chunlan Hong
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China.
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Yarmey VR, San-Miguel A. Biomarkers for aging in Caenorhabditis elegans high throughput screening. Biochem Soc Trans 2024; 52:1405-1418. [PMID: 38884801 DOI: 10.1042/bst20231303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Aging is characterized by a functional decline in organism fitness over time due to a complex combination of genetic and environmental factors [ 1-4]. With an increasing elderly population at risk of age-associated diseases, there is a pressing need for research dedicated to promoting health and longevity through anti-aging interventions. The roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans is an established model organism for aging studies due to its short life cycle, ease of culture, and conserved aging pathways. These benefits also make the worm well-suited for high-throughput screening (HTS) methods to study biomarkers of the molecular changes, cellular dysfunction, and physiological decline associated with aging. Within this review, we offer a summary of recent advances in HTS techniques to study biomarkers of aging in C. elegans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria R Yarmey
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27603, U.S.A
| | - Adriana San-Miguel
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27603, U.S.A
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Schiksnis EC, Nicastro IA, Pasquinelli AE. Full-length direct RNA sequencing reveals extensive remodeling of RNA expression, processing and modification in aging Caenorhabditis elegans. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.18.599640. [PMID: 38948813 PMCID: PMC11213008 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.18.599640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Organismal aging is marked by decline in cellular function and anatomy, ultimately resulting in death. To inform our understanding of the mechanisms underlying this degeneration, we performed standard RNA sequencing and Nanopore direct RNA sequencing over an adult time course in Caenorhabditis elegans. Long reads allowed for identification of hundreds of novel isoforms and age-associated differential isoform accumulation, resulting from alternative splicing and terminal exon choice. Genome-wide analysis reveals a decline in RNA processing fidelity and a rise in inosine and pseudouridine editing events in transcripts from older animals. In this first map of pseudouridine modifications for C. elegans, we find that they largely reside in coding sequences and that the number of genes with this modification increases with age. Collectively, this analysis discovers transcriptomic signatures associated with age and is a valuable resource to understand the many processes that dictate altered gene expression patterns and post-transcriptional regulation in aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin C Schiksnis
- Molecular Biology Department, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0349, USA
| | - Ian A Nicastro
- Molecular Biology Department, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0349, USA
| | - Amy E Pasquinelli
- Molecular Biology Department, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0349, USA
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Jiang L, Wang X, Zhang D, Yee Yuen KW, Tse YC. RSU-1 regulates the integrity of dense bodies in muscle cells of aging Caenorhabditis elegans. iScience 2024; 27:109854. [PMID: 38784006 PMCID: PMC11112334 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Muscle contraction is vital for animal survival, and the sarcomere is the fundamental unit for this process. However, the functions of many conserved sarcomere proteins remain unknown, as their mutants do not exhibit obvious defects. To address this, Caenorhabditis elegans was utilized as a model organism to investigate RSU-1 function in the body wall muscle. RSU-1 is found to colocalize with UNC-97 at the dense body and M-line, and it is particularly crucial for regulating locomotion in aging worms, rather than in young worms. This suggests that RSU-1 has a specific function in maintaining muscle function during aging. Furthermore, the interaction between RSU-1 and UNC-97/PINCH is essential for RSU-1 to modulate locomotion, preserve filament structure, and sustain the M-line and dense body throughout aging. Overall, these findings highlight the significant contribution of RSU-1, through its interaction with UNC-97, in maintaining proper muscle cell function in aging worms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Jiang
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
- School of Life Sciences, Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xinyan Wang
- Core Research Facilities, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Dandan Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Karen Wing Yee Yuen
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Kadoorie Biological Sciences Building, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Life Sciences Building (Building 85), Highfield Campus, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Yu Chung Tse
- School of Life Sciences, Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Core Research Facilities, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
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Yin X, Meng Y, Sun C, Zhao Y, Wang W, Zhao P, Wang M, Ren J, Yao J, Zhang L, Xia X. Investigation of anti-aging and anti-infection properties of Jingfang Granules using the Caenorhabditis elegans model. Biogerontology 2024; 25:433-445. [PMID: 37572203 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-023-10058-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Jingfang Granule (JFG), a traditional Chinese medicine, is frequently employed in clinical settings for the treatment of infectious diseases. Nevertheless, the anti-aging and anti-infection effects of JFG remain uncertain. In the present study, these effects were evaluated using the Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) N2 as a model organism. The results demonstrated that JFG significantly increased the median lifespan of C. elegans by 31.2% at a dosage of 10 mg/mL, without any discernible adverse effects, such as alterations in the pharyngeal pumping rate or nematode motility. Moreover, JFG notably increased oviposition by 11.3%. Subsequent investigations revealed that JFG enhanced oxidative stress resistance in C. elegans by reducing reactive oxygen species levels and significantly improved survival rates in nematodes infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027. These findings suggest that JFG delays reproductive senescence in C. elegans and protects them from oxidative stress, thereby extending their lifespan. Additionally, JFG improves the survival of P. aeruginosa-infected nematodes. Consequently, JFG has potential as a candidate for the development of anti-aging and anti-infection functional medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Yin
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Yiwei Meng
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Chenghong Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Generic Manufacture Technology of Chinese Traditional Medicine, Lunan Pharmaceutical Group Co. LTD, Linyi, 276005, China
| | - Yanqiu Zhao
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Weitao Wang
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Peipei Zhao
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Mengmeng Wang
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Jingli Ren
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Jingchun Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Generic Manufacture Technology of Chinese Traditional Medicine, Lunan Pharmaceutical Group Co. LTD, Linyi, 276005, China.
| | - Lixin Zhang
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250013, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Xuekui Xia
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250013, China.
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11
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Berk Ş, Özdemir S, Pektaş AN. Visualization of scientific production in Caenorhabditis elegans: a bibliometric analysis (1980-2023). Genomics Inform 2024; 22:3. [PMID: 38907345 PMCID: PMC11184956 DOI: 10.1186/s44342-024-00002-7] [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: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) is a nematode and model organism whose entire genome has been mapped, which allows for easy observation of the organism's development due to its transparent structure, and which is appealing due to its ease of crossover, ease of culture, and low cost. Despite being separated by nearly a billion years of evolution, C. elegans homologs have been identified for the vast majority of human genes and are associated with C. elegans for many biological processes such as apoptosis, cell signaling, cell cycle, cell polarity, metabolism, and aging. A detailed bibliometric study is performed here to examine publication trends in this field. Data were taken from the Web of Science database and analyzed using the bibliometric application Biblioshiny (RStudio). In terms of publication, the results indicated a gradual increase each year between 1980 and 2023. A total of 20,322 records were issued in 96 countries, the majority of which were in the USA, China, and Japan. The most prolific writers, the journals most engaged in the area, the nations, institutions, and keywords used by authors were all determined using the Web of Science database and bibliometric rules. The number of papers in the C. elegans research field is increasing exponentially, and Genetics is the journal with the highest number of articles. This study presents how research patterns have evolved throughout time. As a result, worldwide cooperation and a potential field can be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Şeyda Berk
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, Sivas Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, 58140, Turkey.
- Advanced Technology Research and Application Center (CUTAM), Sivas Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, 58140, Turkey.
| | - Serkan Özdemir
- Department of Forestry, Isparta University of Applied Sciences, Isparta, 32260, Turkey
| | - Ayşe Nur Pektaş
- Advanced Technology Research and Application Center (CUTAM), Sivas Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, 58140, Turkey
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12
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Koopman M, Güngördü L, Janssen L, Seinstra RI, Richmond JE, Okerlund N, Wardenaar R, Islam P, Hogewerf W, Brown AEX, Jorgensen EM, Nollen EAA. Rebalancing the motor circuit restores movement in a Caenorhabditis elegans model for TDP-43 toxicity. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114204. [PMID: 38748878 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis can be caused by abnormal accumulation of TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) in the cytoplasm of neurons. Here, we use a C. elegans model for TDP-43-induced toxicity to identify the biological mechanisms that lead to disease-related phenotypes. By applying deep behavioral phenotyping and subsequent dissection of the neuromuscular circuit, we show that TDP-43 worms have profound defects in GABA neurons. Moreover, acetylcholine neurons appear functionally silenced. Enhancing functional output of repressed acetylcholine neurons at the level of, among others, G-protein-coupled receptors restores neurotransmission, but inefficiently rescues locomotion. Rebalancing the excitatory-to-inhibitory ratio in the neuromuscular system by simultaneous stimulation of the affected GABA- and acetylcholine neurons, however, not only synergizes the effects of boosting individual neurotransmitter systems, but instantaneously improves movement. Our results suggest that interventions accounting for the altered connectome may be more efficient in restoring motor function than those solely focusing on diseased neuron populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandy Koopman
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Lale Güngördü
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Leen Janssen
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Renée I Seinstra
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Janet E Richmond
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Nathan Okerlund
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and School of Biological Science, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - René Wardenaar
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Priota Islam
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, London, UK; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Wytse Hogewerf
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Andre E X Brown
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, London, UK; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Erik M Jorgensen
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and School of Biological Science, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Ellen A A Nollen
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands.
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13
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Gao F, Zhang Z, Xue N, Ma Y, Jiao J, Wang C, Zhang K, Lin Y, Li S, Guo Z, An J, Wang P, Xu B, Lei H. Identification of a novel oligopeptide from defatted walnut meal hydrolysate as a potential neuroprotective agent. Food Funct 2024; 15:5566-5578. [PMID: 38712886 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo05501a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Free radical damage and oxidative stress are thought to play a crucial role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Walnut peptides, especially walnut oligopeptides, have been shown to protect nerve cells from oxidative stress and inflammatory damage, as well as improve memory function. In this study, walnut peptides were obtained from walnut meal through enzymatic hydrolysis, ultrafiltration, and gel filtration chromatography. A novel oligopeptide called AQ was successfully isolated and its chemical structure was identified as AASCDQ using ESI-MS/MS. AQ demonstrated remarkable scavenging activity against O2- free radicals (81.00%), DPPH free radicals (79.40%), and ABTS free radicals (67.09%) at a concentration of 1 mg mL-1. Furthermore, AQ exhibited strong neuroprotective effects against hydrogen peroxide-induced damage in SH-SY5Y cells, reducing cell injury and apoptosis. AQ also effectively inhibited the secretion of pro-inflammatory factors NO (IC50 = 46.03 ± 0.32 μM) and suppressed the expression of IL-6 and TNF-α in RAW264.7 cells stimulated by LPS. In vivo experiments demonstrated that AQ promoted angiogenesis in the quail chick chorioallantoic membrane assay and reduced ROS accumulation in Caenorhabditis elegans, thereby extending its lifespan. The anti-inflammatory mechanism of AQ was further confirmed by western blotting. In summary, the novel oligopeptide AQ possesses potential neuroprotective effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, angiogenic, and anti-aging properties, making it a promising candidate for the development of functional foods and pharmaceutical products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Gao
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102400, China.
| | - Zixuan Zhang
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102400, China.
| | - Nannan Xue
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102400, China.
| | - Yunnan Ma
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102400, China.
| | - Jingyi Jiao
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102400, China.
| | - Cheng Wang
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102400, China.
| | - Keyi Zhang
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102400, China.
| | - Yixuan Lin
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102400, China.
| | - Shanlan Li
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102400, China.
| | - Zhuoqian Guo
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102400, China.
| | - Jin An
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102400, China.
| | - Penglong Wang
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102400, China.
| | - Bing Xu
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102400, China.
| | - Haimin Lei
- School of Chinese Pharmacy, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102400, China.
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14
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Pangua C, Espuelas S, Martínez-Ohárriz MC, Vizmanos JL, Irache JM. Mucus-penetrating and permeation enhancer albumin-based nanoparticles for oral delivery of macromolecules: Application to bevacizumab. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024; 14:1189-1205. [PMID: 37880504 PMCID: PMC10984897 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01454-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
The oral administration of therapeutic proteins copes with important challenges (mainly degradation and poor absorption) making their potential therapeutic application extremely difficult. The aim of this study was to design and evaluate the potential of the combination between mucus-permeating nanoparticles and permeation enhancers as a carrier for the oral delivery of the monoclonal antibody bevacizumab, used as a model of therapeutic protein. For this purpose, bevacizumab was encapsulated in PEG-coated albumin nanoparticles as a hydrophobic ion-pairing complex with either sodium deoxycholate (DS) or sodium docusate (DOCU). In both cases, complex formation efficiencies close to 90% were found. The incorporation of either DS or DOCU in PEG-coated nanoparticles significantly increased their mean size, particularly when DOCU was used. Moreover, the diffusion in mucus of DOCU-loaded nanoparticles was significantly reduced, compared with DS ones. In a C. elegans model, DS or DOCU (free or nanoencapsulated) disrupted the intestinal epithelial integrity, but the overall survival of the worms was not affected. In rats, the relative oral bioavailability of bevacizumab incorporated in PEG-coated nanoparticles as a complex with DS (B-DS-NP-P) was 3.7%, a 1000-fold increase compared to free bevacizumab encapsulated in nanoparticles (B-NP-P). This important effect of DS may be explained not only by its capability to transiently disrupt tight junctions but also to their ability to increase the fluidity of membranes and to inhibit cytosolic and brush border enzymes. In summary, the current strategy may be useful to allow the therapeutic use of orally administered proteins, including monoclonal antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pangua
- NANO-VAC Research Group, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Socorro Espuelas
- NANO-VAC Research Group, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - José Luis Vizmanos
- Department of Biochemistry & Genetics, School of Sciences, University of Navarra, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Juan M Irache
- NANO-VAC Research Group, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008, Pamplona, Spain.
- Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008, Pamplona, Spain.
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15
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de Oliveira GV, Soares MV, Cordeiro LM, da Silva AF, Venturini L, Ilha L, Baptista FBO, da Silveira TL, Soares FAA, Iglesias BA. Toxicological assessment of photoactivated tetra-cationic porphyrin molecules under white light exposure in a Caenorhabditis elegans model. Toxicology 2024; 504:153793. [PMID: 38574843 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2024.153793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) utilizes the potential of photosensitizing substances to absorb light energy and produce reactive oxygen species. Tetra-cationic porphyrins, which have organic or coordination compounds attached to their periphery, are heterocyclic derivatives with well-described antimicrobial and antitumoral properties. This is due to their ability to produce reactive oxygen species and their photobiological properties in solution. Consequently, these molecules are promising candidates as new and more effective photosensitizers with biomedical, environmental, and other biomedical applications. Prior to human exposure, it is essential to establish the toxicological profile of these molecules using in vivo models. In this study, we used Caenorhabditis elegans, a small free-living nematode, as a model for assessing toxic effects and predicting toxicity in preclinical research. We evaluated the toxic effects of porphyrins (neutral and tetra-cationic) on nematodes under dark/light conditions. Our findings demonstrate that tetra-methylated porphyrins (3TMeP and 4TMeP) at a concentration of 3.3 µg/mL (1.36 and 0.93 µM) exhibit high toxicity (as evidenced by reduced survival, development, and locomotion) under dark conditions. Moreover, photoactivated tetra-methylated porphyrins induce higher ROS levels compared to neutral (3TPyP and 4TPyP), tetra-palladated (3PdTPyP and 4PdTPyP), and tetra-platinated (3PtTPyP and 4PtTPyP) porphyrins, which may be responsible for the observed toxic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Vitória de Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Marcell Valandro Soares
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Larissa Marafiga Cordeiro
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Aline Franzen da Silva
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Luiza Venturini
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Larissa Ilha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Fabiane Bicca Obetine Baptista
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Tássia Limana da Silveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Félix Alexandre Antunes Soares
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Bernardo Almeida Iglesias
- Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Porphyrinic Materials, Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
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16
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Collins EMS, Hessel EVS, Hughes S. How neurobehavior and brain development in alternative whole-organism models can contribute to prediction of developmental neurotoxicity. Neurotoxicology 2024; 102:48-57. [PMID: 38552718 PMCID: PMC11139590 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2024.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) is not routinely evaluated in chemical risk assessment because current test paradigms for DNT require the use of mammalian models which are ethically controversial, expensive, and resource demanding. Consequently, efforts have focused on revolutionizing DNT testing through affordable novel alternative methods for risk assessment. The goal is to develop a DNT in vitro test battery amenable to high-throughput screening (HTS). Currently, the DNT in vitro test battery consists primarily of human cell-based assays because of their immediate relevance to human health. However, such cell-based assays alone are unable to capture the complexity of a developing nervous system. Whole organismal systems that qualify as 3 R (Replace, Reduce and Refine) models are urgently needed to complement cell-based DNT testing. These models can provide the necessary organismal context and be used to explore the impact of chemicals on brain function by linking molecular and/or cellular changes to behavioural readouts. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, the planarian Dugesia japonica, and embryos of the zebrafish Danio rerio are all suited to low-cost HTS and each has unique strengths for DNT testing. Here, we review the strengths and the complementarity of these organisms in a novel, integrative context and highlight how they can augment current cell-based assays for more comprehensive and robust DNT screening of chemicals. Considering the limitations of all in vitro test systems, we discuss how a smart combinatory use of these systems will contribute to a better human relevant risk assessment of chemicals that considers the complexity of the developing brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Maria S Collins
- Swarthmore College, Biology, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, PA 19081, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Ellen V S Hessel
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, Bilthoven, 3721 MA, the Netherlands
| | - Samantha Hughes
- Department of Environmental Health and Toxicology, A-LIFE, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, de Boelelaan 1085, Amsterdam, 1081 HV, the Netherlands.
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17
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Caldero-Escudero E, Romero-Sanz S, De la Fuente S. Using C. elegans as a model for neurodegenerative diseases: Methodology and evaluation. Methods Cell Biol 2024; 188:1-34. [PMID: 38880519 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mcb.2024.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Caenorhabditis elegans is a nematode that has been used as an animal model for almost 50years. It has primitive and simple tissues and organs, making it an ideal model for studying neurological pathways involved in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). C. elegans has conserved neurological pathways and is able to mimic human diseases, providing valuable insights into the human disease phenotype. This methodological review presents current approaches to generate neurodegenerative-like models of AD and PD in C. elegans, and evaluates the experiments commonly used to validate the diseases. These experimental approaches include assessing survival, fertility, mobility, electropharyngeogram assays, confocal mitochondrial imaging, RNA extraction for qRT-PCR or RT-PCR, and rate of defecation. This review also summarizes the current knowledge acquired on AD and PD using the aforementioned experimental approaches. Additionally, gaps in knowledge and future directions for research are also discussed in the review.
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18
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Salcedo-Tacuma D, Asad N, Howells G, Anderson R, Smith DM. Proteasome hyperactivation rewires the proteome enhancing stress resistance, proteostasis, lipid metabolism and ERAD in C. elegans. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.04.588128. [PMID: 38617285 PMCID: PMC11014606 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.04.588128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Proteasome dysfunction is implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases and age-related proteinopathies. Using a C. elegans model, we demonstrate that 20S proteasome hyperactivation, facilitated by 20S gate-opening, accelerates the targeting of intrinsically disordered proteins. This leads to increased protein synthesis, extensive rewiring of the proteome and transcriptome, enhanced oxidative stress defense, accelerated lipid metabolism, and peroxisome proliferation. It also promotes ER-associated degradation (ERAD) of aggregation-prone proteins, such as alpha-1 antitrypsin (ATZ) and various lipoproteins. Notably, our results reveal that 20S proteasome hyperactivation suggests a novel role in ERAD with broad implications for proteostasis-related disorders, simultaneously affecting lipid homeostasis and peroxisome proliferation. Furthermore, the enhanced cellular capacity to mitigate proteostasis challenges, alongside unanticipated acceleration of lipid metabolism is expected to contribute to the longevity phenotype of this mutant. Remarkably, the mechanism of longevity induced by 20S gate opening appears unique, independent of known longevity and stress-resistance pathways. These results support the therapeutic potential of 20S proteasome activation in mitigating proteostasis-related disorders broadly and provide new insights into the complex interplay between proteasome activity, cellular health, and aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Salcedo-Tacuma
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine, 4 Medical Center Dr., Morgantown, WV USA
| | - Nadeeem. Asad
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine, 4 Medical Center Dr., Morgantown, WV USA
| | - Giovanni Howells
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine, 4 Medical Center Dr., Morgantown, WV USA
| | - Raymond Anderson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine, 4 Medical Center Dr., Morgantown, WV USA
| | - David M. Smith
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine, 4 Medical Center Dr., Morgantown, WV USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
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19
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Banse SA, Sedore CA, Johnson E, Coleman-Hulbert AL, Onken B, Hall D, Jackson EG, Huynh P, Foulger AC, Guo S, Garrett T, Xue J, Inman D, Morshead ML, Plummer WT, Chen E, Bhaumik D, Chen MK, Harinath G, Chamoli M, Quinn RP, Falkowski R, Edgar D, Schmidt MO, Lucanic M, Guo M, Driscoll M, Lithgow GJ, Phillips PC. Antioxidants green tea extract and nordihydroguaiaretic acid confer species and strain-specific lifespan and health effects in Caenorhabditis nematodes. GeroScience 2024; 46:2239-2251. [PMID: 37923874 PMCID: PMC10828308 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-023-00978-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Caenorhabditis Intervention Testing Program (CITP) is an NIH-funded research consortium of investigators who conduct analyses at three independent sites to identify chemical interventions that reproducibly promote health and lifespan in a robust manner. The founding principle of the CITP is that compounds with positive effects across a genetically diverse panel of Caenorhabditis species and strains are likely engaging conserved biochemical pathways to exert their effects. As such, interventions that are broadly efficacious might be considered prominent compounds for translation for pre-clinical research and human clinical applications. Here, we report results generated using a recently streamlined pipeline approach for the evaluation of the effects of chemical compounds on lifespan and health. We studied five compounds previously shown to extend C. elegans lifespan or thought to promote mammalian health: 17α-estradiol, acarbose, green tea extract, nordihydroguaiaretic acid, and rapamycin. We found that green tea extract and nordihydroguaiaretic acid extend Caenorhabditis lifespan in a species-specific manner. Additionally, these two antioxidants conferred assay-specific effects in some studies-for example, decreasing survival for certain genetic backgrounds in manual survival assays in contrast with extended lifespan as assayed using automated C. elegans Lifespan Machines. We also observed that GTE and NDGA impact on older adult mobility capacity is dependent on genetic background, and that GTE reduces oxidative stress resistance in some Caenorhabditis strains. Overall, our analysis of the five compounds supports the general idea that genetic background and assay type can influence lifespan and health effects of compounds, and underscores that lifespan and health can be uncoupled by chemical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen A Banse
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Christine A Sedore
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Erik Johnson
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | | | - Brian Onken
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Nelson Biological Laboratories, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - David Hall
- The Buck Institute for Research On Aging, Novato, CA, 94945, USA
| | - E Grace Jackson
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Phu Huynh
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Nelson Biological Laboratories, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Anna C Foulger
- The Buck Institute for Research On Aging, Novato, CA, 94945, USA
| | - Suzhen Guo
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Nelson Biological Laboratories, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Theo Garrett
- The Buck Institute for Research On Aging, Novato, CA, 94945, USA
| | - Jian Xue
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Nelson Biological Laboratories, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Delaney Inman
- The Buck Institute for Research On Aging, Novato, CA, 94945, USA
| | | | - W Todd Plummer
- The Buck Institute for Research On Aging, Novato, CA, 94945, USA
| | - Esteban Chen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Nelson Biological Laboratories, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Dipa Bhaumik
- The Buck Institute for Research On Aging, Novato, CA, 94945, USA
| | - Michelle K Chen
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Girish Harinath
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Nelson Biological Laboratories, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Manish Chamoli
- The Buck Institute for Research On Aging, Novato, CA, 94945, USA
| | - Rose P Quinn
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Ron Falkowski
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Nelson Biological Laboratories, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Daniel Edgar
- The Buck Institute for Research On Aging, Novato, CA, 94945, USA
| | - Madeline O Schmidt
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Mark Lucanic
- The Buck Institute for Research On Aging, Novato, CA, 94945, USA
| | - Max Guo
- Division of Aging Biology, National Institute On Aging, Bethesda, MD, 20892-9205, USA
| | - Monica Driscoll
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Nelson Biological Laboratories, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA.
| | - Gordon J Lithgow
- The Buck Institute for Research On Aging, Novato, CA, 94945, USA.
| | - Patrick C Phillips
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA.
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20
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Anwar A, De Ayreflor Reyes SR, John AA, Breiling E, O’Connor AM, Reis S, Shim JH, Shah AA, Srinivasan J, Farny NG. Nucleic Acid Aptamers Protect Against Lead (Pb(II)) Toxicity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.28.587288. [PMID: 38585880 PMCID: PMC10996642 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.28.587288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Lead (Pb(II)) is a pervasive heavy metal toxin with many well-established negative effects on human health. Lead toxicity arises from cumulative, repeated environmental exposures. Thus, prophylactic strategies to protect against the bioaccumulation of lead could reduce lead-associated human pathologies. Here we show that DNA and RNA aptamers protect C. elegans from toxic phenotypes caused by lead. Reproductive toxicity, as measured by brood size assays, is prevented by co-feeding of animals with DNA or RNA aptamers. Similarly, lead-induced behavioral anomalies are also normalized by aptamer feeding. Further, cultured human HEK293 and primary murine osteoblasts are protected from lead toxicity by transfection with DNA aptamers. The osteogenic development, which is decreased by lead exposure, is maintained by prior transfection of lead-binding DNA aptamers. Aptamers may be an effective strategy for the protection of human health in the face of increasing environmental toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afreen Anwar
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
- Department of Biotechnology, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri (J&K), India
| | | | - Aijaz Ahmad John
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Erik Breiling
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
| | - Abigail M. O’Connor
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
| | - Stephanie Reis
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
| | - Jae-Hyuck Shim
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- Li Weibo Institute for Rare Diseases Research, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ali Asghar Shah
- Department of Biotechnology, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri (J&K), India
| | - Jagan Srinivasan
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
- Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
| | - Natalie G. Farny
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
- Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Road, Worcester, MA, 01609, USA
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21
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Ray AK, Priya A, Malik MZ, Thanaraj TA, Singh AK, Mago P, Ghosh C, Shalimar, Tandon R, Chaturvedi R. A bioinformatics approach to elucidate conserved genes and pathways in C. elegans as an animal model for cardiovascular research. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7471. [PMID: 38553458 PMCID: PMC10980734 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56562-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a collective term for disorders of the heart and blood vessels. The molecular events and biochemical pathways associated with CVD are difficult to study in clinical settings on patients and in vitro conditions. Animal models play a pivotal and indispensable role in CVD research. Caenorhabditis elegans, a nematode species, has emerged as a prominent experimental organism widely utilized in various biomedical research fields. However, the specific number of CVD-related genes and pathways within the C. elegans genome remains undisclosed to date, limiting its in-depth utilization for investigations. In the present study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of genes and pathways related to CVD within the genomes of humans and C. elegans through a systematic bioinformatic approach. A total of 1113 genes in C. elegans orthologous to the most significant CVD-related genes in humans were identified, and the GO terms and pathways were compared to study the pathways that are conserved between the two species. In order to infer the functions of CVD-related orthologous genes in C. elegans, a PPI network was constructed. Orthologous gene PPI network analysis results reveal the hubs and important KRs: pmk-1, daf-21, gpb-1, crh-1, enpl-1, eef-1G, acdh-8, hif-1, pmk-2, and aha-1 in C. elegans. Modules were identified for determining the role of the orthologous genes at various levels in the created network. We also identified 9 commonly enriched pathways between humans and C. elegans linked with CVDs that include autophagy (animal), the ErbB signaling pathway, the FoxO signaling pathway, the MAPK signaling pathway, ABC transporters, the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, fatty acid metabolism, glutathione metabolism, and metabolic pathways. This study provides the first systematic genomic approach to explore the CVD-associated genes and pathways that are present in C. elegans, supporting the use of C. elegans as a prominent animal model organism for cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwini Kumar Ray
- Department of Environmental Studies, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India.
| | - Anjali Priya
- Department of Environmental Studies, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Md Zubbair Malik
- Department of Genetics and Bioinformatics, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait.
| | | | - Alok Kumar Singh
- Department of Zoology, Ramjas College, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Payal Mago
- Shaheed Rajguru College of Applied Science for Women, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
- Campus of Open Learning, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Chirashree Ghosh
- Department of Environmental Studies, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Shalimar
- Department of Gastroenterology, All India Institute of Medical Science, New Delhi, India
| | - Ravi Tandon
- Laboratory of AIDS Research and Immunology, School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Rupesh Chaturvedi
- School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
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22
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Zhang G, Zheng C, Ding YH, Mello C. Casein kinase II promotes piRNA production through direct phosphorylation of USTC component TOFU-4. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2727. [PMID: 38548791 PMCID: PMC10978872 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46882-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are genomically encoded small RNAs that engage Piwi Argonaute proteins to direct mRNA surveillance and transposon silencing. Despite advances in understanding piRNA pathways and functions, how the production of piRNA is regulated remains elusive. Here, using a genetic screen, we identify casein kinase II (CK2) as a factor required for piRNA pathway function. We show that CK2 is required for the localization of PRG-1 and for the proper localization of several factors that comprise the 'upstream sequence transcription complex' (USTC), which is required for piRNA transcription. Loss of CK2 impairs piRNA levels suggesting that CK2 promotes USTC function. We identify the USTC component twenty-one-U fouled-up 4 (TOFU-4) as a direct substrate for CK2. Our findings suggest that phosphorylation of TOFU-4 by CK2 promotes the assembly of USTC and piRNA transcription. Notably, during the aging process, CK2 activity declines, resulting in the disassembly of USTC, decreased piRNA production, and defects in piRNA-mediated gene silencing, including transposons silencing. These findings highlight the significance of posttranslational modification in regulating piRNA biogenesis and its implications for the aging process. Overall, our study provides compelling evidence for the involvement of a posttranslational modification mechanism in the regulation of piRNA biogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gangming Zhang
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Chunwei Zheng
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Yue-He Ding
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Craig Mello
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
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23
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Hînganu MV, Cucu RP, Hînganu D. Personalized Research on the Aging Face-A Narrative History. J Pers Med 2024; 14:343. [PMID: 38672970 PMCID: PMC11050910 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14040343] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Throughout history, people have struggled to find out the secret of youth. The aim of the manuscript is to review the main achievements regarding the exploration of the aging face phenomenon. It should be very important to know the evolution in this field due to the increase in life expectancy among the population. Our purpose is for the current study to serve as a starting point towards exploring novel research avenues in molecular biology and the confocal immunofluorescence of cervicofacial soft tissues, employing cutting-edge techniques. All changes in the shape of the facial skeleton, soft tissue, retaining ligaments, fat compartments, and the skin envelope contribute to facial aging to varying degrees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marius Valeriu Hînganu
- Department of Morpho-Functionall Sciences I, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (M.V.H.); (D.H.)
| | - Ramona Paula Cucu
- Department of Surgery, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Delia Hînganu
- Department of Morpho-Functionall Sciences I, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (M.V.H.); (D.H.)
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24
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Jung J, Loschko T, Reich S, Rassoul-Agha M, Werner MS. Newly identified nematodes from the Great Salt Lake are associated with microbialites and specially adapted to hypersaline conditions. Proc Biol Sci 2024; 291:20232653. [PMID: 38471558 PMCID: PMC10932707 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.2653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Extreme environments enable the study of simplified food-webs and serve as models for evolutionary bottlenecks and early Earth ecology. We investigated the biodiversity of invertebrate meiofauna in the benthic zone of the Great Salt Lake (GSL), Utah, USA, one of the most hypersaline lake systems in the world. The hypersaline bays within the GSL are currently thought to support only two multicellular animals: brine fly larvae and brine shrimp. Here, we report the presence, habitat, and microbial interactions of novel free-living nematodes. Nematode diversity drops dramatically along a salinity gradient from a freshwater river into the south arm of the lake. In Gilbert Bay, nematodes primarily inhabit reef-like organosedimentary structures built by bacteria called microbialites. These structures likely provide a protective barrier to UV and aridity, and bacterial associations within them may support life in hypersaline environments. Notably, sampling from Owens Lake, another terminal lake in the Great Basin that lacks microbialites, did not recover nematodes from similar salinities. Phylogenetic divergence suggests that GSL nematodes represent previously undescribed members of the family Monhysteridae-one of the dominant fauna of the abyssal zone and deep-sea hydrothermal vents. These findings update our understanding of halophile ecosystems and the habitable limit of animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Jung
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Tobias Loschko
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Max Planck Institute for Biology, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Shelley Reich
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Maxim Rassoul-Agha
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Michael S. Werner
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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25
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Miller BC, Mathai M, Yadav H, Jain S. Geroprotective potential of microbiome modulators in the Caenorhabditis elegans model. GeroScience 2024; 46:129-151. [PMID: 37561384 PMCID: PMC10828408 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-023-00901-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is associated with cellular and physiological changes, which significantly reduce the quality of life and increase the risk for disease. Geroprotectors improve lifespan and slow the progression of detrimental aging-related changes such as immune system senescence, mitochondrial dysfunction, and dysregulated nutrient sensing and metabolism. Emerging evidence suggests that gut microbiota dysbiosis is a hallmark of aging-related diseases and microbiome modulators, such as probiotics (live bacteria) or postbiotics (non-viable bacteria/bacterial byproducts) may be promising geroprotectors. However, because they are strain-specific, the geroprotective effects of probiotics and postbiotics remain poorly understood and understudied. Drosophila melanogaster, Caenorhabditis elegans, and rodents are well-validated preclinical models for studying lifespan and the role of probiotics and/or postbiotics, but each have their limitations, including cost and their translation to human aging biology. C. elegans is an excellent model for large-scale screening to determine the geroprotective potential of drugs or probiotics/postbiotics due to its short lifecycle, easy maintenance, low cost, and homology to humans. The purpose of this article is to review the geroprotective effects of microbiome modulators and their future scope, using C. elegans as a model. The proposed geroprotective mechanisms of these probiotics and postbiotics include delaying immune system senescence, preventing or reducing mitochondrial dysfunction, and regulating food intake (dietary restriction) and metabolism. More studies are warranted to understand the geroprotective potential of probiotics and postbiotics, as well as other microbiome modulators, like prebiotics and fermented foods, and use them to develop effective therapeutics to extend lifespan and reduce the risk of debilitating aging-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandi C Miller
- USF Center for Microbiome Research, Microbiomes Institute, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, MDC 78, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Repair, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Megha Mathai
- USF Center for Microbiome Research, Microbiomes Institute, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, MDC 78, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Repair, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Hariom Yadav
- USF Center for Microbiome Research, Microbiomes Institute, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, MDC 78, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Repair, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Shalini Jain
- USF Center for Microbiome Research, Microbiomes Institute, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, MDC 78, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Repair, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.
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26
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Macip CC, Hasan R, Hoznek V, Kim J, Lu YR, Metzger LE, Sethna S, Davidsohn N. Gene Therapy-Mediated Partial Reprogramming Extends Lifespan and Reverses Age-Related Changes in Aged Mice. Cell Reprogram 2024; 26:24-32. [PMID: 38381405 PMCID: PMC10909732 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2023.0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging is a complex progression of changes best characterized as the chronic dysregulation of cellular processes leading to deteriorated tissue and organ function. Although aging cannot currently be prevented, its impact on life- and healthspan in the elderly can potentially be minimized by interventions that aim to return these cellular processes to optimal function. Recent studies have demonstrated that partial reprogramming using the Yamanaka factors (or a subset; OCT4, SOX2, and KLF4; OSK) can reverse age-related changes in vitro and in vivo. However, it is still unknown whether the Yamanaka factors (or a subset) are capable of extending the lifespan of aged wild-type (WT) mice. In this study, we show that systemically delivered adeno-associated viruses, encoding an inducible OSK system, in 124-week-old male mice extend the median remaining lifespan by 109% over WT controls and enhance several health parameters. Importantly, we observed a significant improvement in frailty scores indicating that we were able to improve the healthspan along with increasing the lifespan. Furthermore, in human keratinocytes expressing exogenous OSK, we observed significant epigenetic markers of age reversal, suggesting a potential reregulation of genetic networks to a younger potentially healthier state. Together, these results may have important implications for the development of partial reprogramming interventions to reverse age-associated diseases in the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jihyun Kim
- Rejuvenate Bio, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Yuancheng Ryan Lu
- Department of Biology, Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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27
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Ray AK, Priya A, Malik MZ, Thanaraj TA, Singh AK, Mago P, Ghosh C, Shalimar, Tandon R, Chaturvedi R. Conserved Cardiovascular Network: Bioinformatics Insights into Genes and Pathways for Establishing Caenorhabditis elegans as an Animal Model for Cardiovascular Diseases. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.12.24.573256. [PMID: 38234826 PMCID: PMC10793405 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.24.573256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a collective term for disorders of the heart and blood vessels. The molecular events and biochemical pathways associated with CVD are difficult to study in clinical settings on patients and in vitro conditions. Animal models play a pivotal and indispensable role in cardiovascular disease (CVD) research. Caenorhabditis elegans , a nematode species, has emerged as a prominent experimental organism widely utilised in various biomedical research fields. However, the specific number of CVD-related genes and pathways within the C. elegans genome remains undisclosed to date, limiting its in-depth utilisation for investigations. In the present study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of genes and pathways related to CVD within the genomes of humans and C. elegans through a systematic bioinformatic approach. A total of 1113 genes in C. elegans orthologous to the most significant CVD-related genes in humans were identified, and the GO terms and pathways were compared to study the pathways that are conserved between the two species. In order to infer the functions of CVD-related orthologous genes in C. elegans, a PPI network was constructed. Orthologous gene PPI network analysis results reveal the hubs and important KRs: pmk-1, daf-21, gpb-1, crh-1, enpl-1, eef-1G, acdh-8, hif-1, pmk-2, and aha-1 in C. elegans. Modules were identified for determining the role of the orthologous genes at various levels in the created network. We also identified 9 commonly enriched pathways between humans and C. elegans linked with CVDs that include autophagy (animal), the ErbB signalling pathway, the FoxO signalling pathway, the MAPK signalling pathway, ABC transporters, the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, fatty acid metabolism, glutathione metabolism, and metabolic pathways. This study provides the first systematic genomic approach to explore the CVD-associated genes and pathways that are present in C. elegans, supporting the use of C. elegans as a prominent animal model organism for cardiovascular diseases.
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28
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Martins C, Magalhães S, Almeida I, Neto V, Rebelo S, Nunes A. Metabolomics to Study Human Aging: A Review. Curr Mol Med 2024; 24:457-477. [PMID: 37026499 DOI: 10.2174/1566524023666230407123727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
In the last years, with the increase in the average life expectancy, the world's population is progressively aging, which entails social, health and economic problems. In this sense, the need to better understand the physiology of the aging process becomes an urgent need. Since the study of aging in humans is challenging, cellular and animal models are widely used as alternatives. Omics, namely metabolomics, have emerged in the study of aging, with the aim of biomarker discovering, which may help to uncomplicate this complex process. This paper aims to summarize different models used for aging studies with their advantages and limitations. Also, this review gathers the published articles referring to biomarkers of aging already discovered using metabolomics approaches, comparing the results obtained in the different studies. Finally, the most frequently used senescence biomarkers are described, along with their importance in understanding aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Martins
- Department of Medical Sciences, iBiMED: Institute of Biomedicine, University of Aveiro, Agra do Crasto, Aveiro 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Sandra Magalhães
- Department of Surgery and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, UnIC@RISE, Cardiovascular Research & Development Centre, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, Porto 4200-319, Portugal
| | - Idália Almeida
- Department of Medical Sciences, iBiMED: Institute of Biomedicine, University of Aveiro, Agra do Crasto, Aveiro 3810-193, Portugal
- CICECO: Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Vanessa Neto
- Department of Medical Sciences, iBiMED: Institute of Biomedicine, University of Aveiro, Agra do Crasto, Aveiro 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Sandra Rebelo
- Department of Medical Sciences, iBiMED: Institute of Biomedicine, University of Aveiro, Agra do Crasto, Aveiro 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Alexandra Nunes
- Department of Medical Sciences, iBiMED: Institute of Biomedicine, University of Aveiro, Agra do Crasto, Aveiro 3810-193, Portugal
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29
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Shan L, Heusinkveld HJ, Paul KC, Hughes S, Darweesh SKL, Bloem BR, Homberg JR. Towards improved screening of toxins for Parkinson's risk. NPJ Parkinsons Dis 2023; 9:169. [PMID: 38114496 PMCID: PMC10730534 DOI: 10.1038/s41531-023-00615-9] [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: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive and disabling neurodegenerative disorder. The prevalence of PD has risen considerably over the past decades. A growing body of evidence suggest that exposure to environmental toxins, including pesticides, solvents and heavy metals (collectively called toxins), is at least in part responsible for this rapid growth. It is worrying that the current screening procedures being applied internationally to test for possible neurotoxicity of specific compounds offer inadequate insights into the risk of developing PD in humans. Improved screening procedures are therefore urgently needed. Our review first substantiates current evidence on the relation between exposure to environmental toxins and the risk of developing PD. We subsequently propose to replace the current standard toxin screening by a well-controlled multi-tier toxin screening involving the following steps: in silico studies (tier 1) followed by in vitro tests (tier 2), aiming to prioritize agents with human relevant routes of exposure. More in depth studies can be undertaken in tier 3, with whole-organism (in)vertebrate models. Tier 4 has a dedicated focus on cell loss in the substantia nigra and on the presumed mechanisms of neurotoxicity in rodent models, which are required to confirm or refute the possible neurotoxicity of any individual compound. This improved screening procedure should not only evaluate new pesticides that seek access to the market, but also critically assess all pesticides that are being used today, acknowledging that none of these has ever been proven to be safe from a perspective of PD. Importantly, the improved screening procedures should not just assess the neurotoxic risk of isolated compounds, but should also specifically look at the cumulative risk conveyed by exposure to commonly used combinations of pesticides (cocktails). The worldwide implementation of such an improved screening procedure, would be an essential step for policy makers and governments to recognize PD-related environmental risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Shan
- Department Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Harm J Heusinkveld
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Kimberly C Paul
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Samantha Hughes
- A-LIFE Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment, Section Environmental Health and Toxicology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sirwan K L Darweesh
- Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bastiaan R Bloem
- Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Judith R Homberg
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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30
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Bonuccelli G, Brooks DR, Shepherd S, Sotgia F, Lisanti MP. Antibiotics that target mitochondria extend lifespan in C. elegans. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:11764-11781. [PMID: 37950722 PMCID: PMC10683609 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
Aging is a continuous degenerative process caused by a progressive decline of cell and tissue functions in an organism. It is induced by the accumulation of damage that affects normal cellular processes, ultimately leading to cell death. It has been speculated for many years that mitochondria play a key role in the aging process. In the aim of characterizing the implications of mitochondria in aging, here we used Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) as an organismal model treated a panel of mitochondrial inhibitors and assessed for survival. In our study, we assessed survival by evaluating worm lifespan, and we assessed aging markers by evaluating the pharyngeal muscle contraction, the accumulation of lipofuscin pigment and ATP levels. Our results show that treatment of worms with either doxycycline, azithromycin (inhibitors of the small and the large mitochondrial ribosomes, respectively), or a combination of both, significantly extended median lifespan of C. elegans, enhanced their pharyngeal pumping rate, reduced their lipofuscin content and their energy consumption (ATP levels), as compared to control untreated worms, suggesting an aging-abrogating effect for these drugs. Similarly, DPI, an inhibitor of mitochondrial complex I and II, was capable of prolonging the median lifespan of treated worms. On the other hand, subjecting worms to vitamin C, a pro-oxidant, failed to extend C. elegans lifespan and upregulated its energy consumption, revealing an increase in ATP level. Therefore, our longevity study reveals that mitochondrial inhibitors (i.e., mitochondria-targeting antibiotics) could abrogate aging and extend lifespan in C. elegans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Bonuccelli
- Translational Medicine, School of Science, Engineering and Environment (SEE), University of Salford, Greater Manchester M5 4BR, UK
| | - Darren R. Brooks
- Translational Medicine, School of Science, Engineering and Environment (SEE), University of Salford, Greater Manchester M5 4BR, UK
| | - Sally Shepherd
- Translational Medicine, School of Science, Engineering and Environment (SEE), University of Salford, Greater Manchester M5 4BR, UK
| | - Federica Sotgia
- Translational Medicine, School of Science, Engineering and Environment (SEE), University of Salford, Greater Manchester M5 4BR, UK
| | - Michael P. Lisanti
- Translational Medicine, School of Science, Engineering and Environment (SEE), University of Salford, Greater Manchester M5 4BR, UK
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31
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Reich H, Savage-Dunn C. Signaling circuits and the apical extracellular matrix in aging: connections identified in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 325:C1201-C1211. [PMID: 37721005 PMCID: PMC10861026 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00195.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Numerous conserved signaling pathways play critical roles in aging, including insulin/IGF-1, TGF-β, and Wnt pathways. Some of these pathways also play prominent roles in the formation and maintenance of the extracellular matrix. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has been an enduringly productive system for the identification of conserved mechanisms of biological aging. Recent studies in C. elegans highlight the regulatory circuits between conserved signaling pathways and the extracellular matrix, revealing a bidirectional relationship between these factors and providing a platform to address how regulation of and by the extracellular matrix can impact lifespan and organismal health during aging. These discoveries provide new opportunities for clinical advances and novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Reich
- Department of Biology, Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, New York, United States
| | - Cathy Savage-Dunn
- Department of Biology, Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, New York, United States
- PhD Program in Biology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, New York, United States
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32
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Li S, Vazquez JM, Sudmant PH. The evolution of aging and lifespan. Trends Genet 2023; 39:830-843. [PMID: 37714733 PMCID: PMC11147682 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2023.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Aging is a nearly inescapable trait among organisms yet lifespan varies tremendously across different species and spans several orders of magnitude in vertebrates alone. This vast phenotypic diversity is driven by distinct evolutionary trajectories and tradeoffs that are reflected in patterns of diversification and constraint in organismal genomes. Age-specific impacts of selection also shape allele frequencies in populations, thus impacting disease susceptibility and environment-specific mortality risk. Further, the mutational processes that spawn this genetic diversity in both germline and somatic cells are strongly influenced by age and life history. We discuss recent advances in our understanding of the evolution of aging and lifespan at organismal, population, and cellular scales, and highlight outstanding questions that remain unanswered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacy Li
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA; Center for Computational Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA. USA
| | - Juan Manuel Vazquez
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Peter H Sudmant
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA; Center for Computational Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA. USA.
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Dinić M, Jakovljević S, Popović N, Radojević D, Veljović K, Golić N, Terzić-Vidojević A. Assessment of stability and bioactive compounds in yogurt containing novel natural starter cultures with the ability to promote longevity in Caenorhabditis elegans. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:7447-7460. [PMID: 37641316 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-23342] [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: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Yogurt represent one of the oldest fermented foods containing viable lactic acid bacteria and many bioactive compounds that could exhibit beneficial effects on human health and train our immune system to better respond to invading pathogens. Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus are commonly used for yogurt preparation under controlled temperature and environmental conditions. In this study, we investigated probiotic features of S. thermophilus BGKMJ1-36 and L. bulgaricus BGVLJ1-21 strains isolated from artisanal sour milk and yogurt by using Caenorhabditis elegans as an in vivo model system. Further, we evaluated content of total fat, saturated fatty acids, proteins, and lactose, as well as vitamins and AA of yogurt prepared from above-mentioned starter cultures during 21 d of storage at 4°C to get insights of final product stability. We showed that S. thermophilus BGKMJ1-36 and L. bulgaricus BGVLJ1-21 strains applied in combination upregulated the expression of autophagy-related genes in C. elegans. Beside autophagy, we observed activation of TIR-1-dependent transcription of lysozyme-like antimicrobial genes involved in the immune defense of C. elegans. Upregulation of these genes strongly correlates with an increase in the longevity of the worms fed with yogurt culture bacteria. Further, we showed that yogurt prepared with S. thermophilus BGKMJ1-36 and L. bulgaricus BGVLJ1-21, as a final product, is rich with vitamin B2 and dominant AA known by their prolongevity properties. Taken together, our study pointed to the beneficial features of the tested starter cultures and yogurt and highlighted their potential to be used as a fermented food with added-value properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miroslav Dinić
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade 152, Serbia.
| | - Stefan Jakovljević
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade 152, Serbia
| | - Nikola Popović
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade 152, Serbia
| | - Dušan Radojević
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade 152, Serbia
| | - Katarina Veljović
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade 152, Serbia
| | - Nataša Golić
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade 152, Serbia
| | - Amarela Terzić-Vidojević
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade 152, Serbia.
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34
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Loo J, Shah Bana MAF, Tan JK, Goon JA. Effect of dietary restriction on health span in Caenorhabditis elegans: A systematic review. Exp Gerontol 2023; 182:112294. [PMID: 37730186 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2023.112294] [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: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Dietary restriction (DR) interventions have demonstrated their efficacy in extending lifespan; however, the association between lifespan extension and health span remains unclear. This article aims to analyze the relationship between DR-induced lifespan and health span in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans), a widely used animal model in lifespan studies. By examining various parameters such as lipofuscin accumulation (an aging marker) and locomotor and feeding capacities (indicators of muscle degradation rate), we have compiled papers that investigate and report on these DR-induced effects.The majority of the papers reviewed consistently demonstrate that DR improves both lifespan and health span in C. elegans. Worms subjected to DR exhibit slower lipofuscin accumulation compared to those fed ad libitum, indicating a reduction in age-related cellular damage. Additionally, DR-treated worms display a higher locomotion capacity, suggesting a slower rate of muscle degradation. However, it is worth noting that there are some discrepancies among the papers regarding feeding capacity. These contradictions can be attributed to the different methods employed to initiate DR. While many approaches slow muscle degeneration and enhance pumping rates through adaptation to limited food sources, other methods, such as using eat-2 mutant worms or interventions that mimic the effects of eat-2, reduce feeding capacity and consequently restrict food intake. In conclusion, the findings suggest a strong correlation between DR-induced longevity and the extension of health span in C. elegans, as evidenced by improvements in various health span parameters. DR interventions not only extend lifespan but also mitigate age-related markers and preserve locomotor capacity. Although conflicting results are observed regarding feeding capacity, the overall evidence supports the notion that DR promotes healthier aging in this animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jazween Loo
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | | | - Jen Kit Tan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Jo Aan Goon
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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35
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Wilson AM, Coetzee MPA, Wingfield MJ, Wingfield BD. Needles in fungal haystacks: Discovery of a putative a-factor pheromone and a unique mating strategy in the Leotiomycetes. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292619. [PMID: 37824487 PMCID: PMC10569646 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The Leotiomycetes is a hugely diverse group of fungi, accommodating a wide variety of important plant and animal pathogens, ericoid mycorrhizal fungi, as well as producers of antibiotics. Despite their importance, the genetics of these fungi remain relatively understudied, particularly as they don't include model taxa. For example, sexual reproduction and the genetic mechanisms that underly this process are poorly understood in the Leotiomycetes. We exploited publicly available genomic and transcriptomic resources to identify genes of the mating-type locus and pheromone response pathway in an effort to characterize the mating strategies and behaviors of 124 Leotiomycete species. Our analyses identified a putative a-factor mating pheromone in these species. This significant finding represents the first identification of this gene in Pezizomycotina species outside of the Sordariomycetes. A unique mating strategy was also discovered in Lachnellula species that appear to have lost the need for the primary MAT1-1-1 protein. Ancestral state reconstruction enabled the identification of numerous transitions between homothallism and heterothallism in the Leotiomycetes and suggests a heterothallic ancestor for this group. This comprehensive catalog of mating-related genes from such a large group of fungi provides a rich resource from which in-depth, functional studies can be conducted in these economically and ecologically important species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andi M. Wilson
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics & Microbiology, Forestry & Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Martin P. A. Coetzee
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics & Microbiology, Forestry & Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Michael J. Wingfield
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics & Microbiology, Forestry & Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Brenda D. Wingfield
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics & Microbiology, Forestry & Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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36
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Silveira CMDV, Farelo Dos Santos V, Ornelas IM, Carrilho BDS, Ventura MAVDC, Pereira HMG, Rehen SK, Junqueira M. Systematic characterization of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide metabolites in Caenorhabditis elegans by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr A 2023; 1708:464362. [PMID: 37717453 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2023.464362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds have gained renewed interest for their potential therapeutic applications, but their metabolism and effects on complex biological systems remain poorly understood. Here, we present a systematic characterization of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) metabolites in the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans using state-of-the-art analytical techniques. By employing ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry, we putatively identified a range of LSD metabolites, shedding light on their metabolic pathways and offering insights into their pharmacokinetics. Our study demonstrates the suitability of Caenorhabditis elegans as a valuable model system for investigating the metabolism of psychedelic compounds and provides a foundation for further research on the therapeutic potential of LSD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Isis Moraes Ornelas
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitória, Brasil; Instituto D'Or de Pesquisa e Ensino (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
| | | | | | | | - Stevens Kastrup Rehen
- Instituto D'Or de Pesquisa e Ensino (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro, Brasil; Departamento de Genética, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
| | - Magno Junqueira
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brasil.
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37
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Hu C, Yang W. Alternatives to animal models to study bacterial infections. Folia Microbiol (Praha) 2023; 68:703-739. [PMID: 37632640 DOI: 10.1007/s12223-023-01084-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Animal testing has made a significant and unequalled contribution to important discoveries and advancements in the fields of research, medicine, vaccine development, and drug discovery. Each year, millions of animals are sacrificed for various experiments, and this is an ongoing process. However, the debate on the ethical and sensible usage of animals in in vivo experimentation is equally important. The need to explore and adopt newer alternatives to animals so as to comply with the goal of reduce, refine, and replace needs attention. Besides the ever-increasing debate on ethical issues, animal research has additional drawbacks (need of trained labour, requirement of breeding area, lengthy protocols, high expenses, transport barriers, difficulty to extrapolate data from animals to humans, etc.). With this scenario, the present review has been framed to give a comprehensive insight into the possible alternative options worth exploring in this direction especially targeting replacements for animal models of bacterial infections. There have been some excellent reviews discussing on the alternate methods for replacing and reducing animals in drug research. However, reviews that discuss the replacements in the field of medical bacteriology with emphasis on animal bacterial infection models are purely limited. The present review discusses on the use of (a) non-mammalian models and (b) alternative systems such as microfluidic chip-based models and microdosing aiming to give a detailed insight into the prospects of these alternative platforms to reduce the number of animals being used in infection studies. This would enlighten the scientific community working in this direction to be well acquainted with the available new approaches and alternatives so that the 3R strategy can be successfully implemented in the field of antibacterial drug research and testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengming Hu
- Queen Mary College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Wenlong Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China.
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38
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Yamamoto KK, Savage-Dunn C. TGF-β pathways in aging and immunity: lessons from Caenorhabditis elegans. Front Genet 2023; 14:1220068. [PMID: 37732316 PMCID: PMC10507863 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1220068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily of signaling molecules plays critical roles in development, differentiation, homeostasis, and disease. Due to the conservation of these ligands and their signaling pathways, genetic studies in invertebrate systems including the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans have been instrumental in identifying signaling mechanisms. C. elegans is also a premier organism for research in longevity and healthy aging. Here we summarize current knowledge on the roles of TGF-β signaling in aging and immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cathy Savage-Dunn
- Department of Biology, Queens College, and PhD Program in Biology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York City, NY, United States
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39
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Chinchankar MN, Taylor WB, Ko SH, Apple EC, Rodriguez KA, Chen L, Fisher AL. A novel endoplasmic reticulum adaptation is critical for the long-lived Caenorhabditis elegans rpn-10 proteasomal mutant. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2023; 1866:194957. [PMID: 37355092 PMCID: PMC10528105 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2023.194957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
The loss of proteostasis due to reduced efficiency of protein degradation pathways plays a key role in multiple age-related diseases and is a hallmark of the aging process. Paradoxically, we have previously reported that the Caenorhabditis elegans rpn-10(ok1865) mutant, which lacks the RPN-10/RPN10/PSMD4 subunit of the 19S regulatory particle of the 26S proteasome, exhibits enhanced cytosolic proteostasis, elevated stress resistance and extended lifespan, despite possessing reduced proteasome function. However, the response of this mutant against threats to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis and proteostasis was unknown. Here, we find that the rpn-10 mutant is highly ER stress resistant compared to the wildtype. Under unstressed conditions, the ER unfolded protein response (UPR) is activated in the rpn-10 mutant as signified by increased xbp-1 splicing. This primed response appears to alter ER homeostasis through the upregulated expression of genes involved in ER protein quality control (ERQC), including those in the ER-associated protein degradation (ERAD) pathway. Pertinently, we find that ERQC is critical for the rpn-10 mutant longevity. These changes also alter ER proteostasis, as studied using the C. elegans alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency model, which comprises an intestinal ER-localised transgenic reporter of an aggregation-prone form of AAT called ATZ. The rpn-10 mutant shows a significant reduction in the accumulation of the ATZ reporter, thus indicating that its ER proteostasis is augmented. Via a genetic screen for suppressors of decreased ATZ aggregation in the rpn-10 mutant, we then identified ecps-2/H04D03.3, a novel ortholog of the proteasome-associated adaptor and scaffold protein ECM29/ECPAS. We further show that ecps-2 is required for improved ER proteostasis as well as lifespan extension of the rpn-10 mutant. Thus, we propose that ECPS-2-proteasome functional interactions, alongside additional putative molecular processes, contribute to a novel ERQC adaptation which underlies the superior proteostasis and longevity of the rpn-10 mutant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghna N Chinchankar
- Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies, UT Health San Antonio (UTHSCSA), SA, TX, United States of America; Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, UTHSCSA, SA, TX, United States of America
| | - William B Taylor
- Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology, and Palliative Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States of America
| | - Su-Hyuk Ko
- Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies, UT Health San Antonio (UTHSCSA), SA, TX, United States of America; Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, UTHSCSA, SA, TX, United States of America
| | - Ellen C Apple
- Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies, UT Health San Antonio (UTHSCSA), SA, TX, United States of America; Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, UTHSCSA, SA, TX, United States of America
| | - Karl A Rodriguez
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, UTHSCSA, SA, TX, United States of America
| | - Lizhen Chen
- Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies, UT Health San Antonio (UTHSCSA), SA, TX, United States of America; Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, UTHSCSA, SA, TX, United States of America
| | - Alfred L Fisher
- Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology, and Palliative Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States of America.
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40
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Zhang G, Zheng C, Ding YH, Mello C. Casein kinase II promotes piRNA production through direct phosphorylation of USTC component TOFU-4. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.09.552615. [PMID: 37609319 PMCID: PMC10441431 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.09.552615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are genomically encoded small RNAs that engage Piwi Argonaute proteins to direct mRNA surveillance and transposon silencing. Despite advances in understanding piRNA pathways and functions, how the production of piRNA is regulated remains elusive. Here, using a genetic screen, we identify casein kinase II (CK2) as a factor required for piRNA pathway function. We show that CK2 is required for the localization of PRG-1 and for the proper localization of several factors that comprise the 'upstream sequence transcription complex' (USTC), which is required for piRNA transcription. Loss of CK2 impairs piRNA levels suggesting that CK2 promotes USTC function. We identify the USTC component twenty-one-U fouled-up 4 (TOFU-4) as a direct substrate for CK2. Our findings suggest that phosphorylation of TOFU-4 by CK2 promotes the assembly of USTC and piRNA transcription. Notably, during the aging process, CK2 activity declines, resulting in the disassembly of USTC, decreased piRNA production, and defects in piRNA-mediated gene silencing, including transposons silencing. These findings highlight the significance of posttranslational modification in regulating piRNA biogenesis and its implications for the aging process. Overall, our study provides compelling evidence for the involvement of a posttranslational modification mechanism in the regulation of piRNA biogenesis.
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41
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Beydoun S, Kitto ES, Wang E, Huang S, Leiser SF. Methodology to Metabolically Inactivate Bacteria for Caenorhabditis elegans Research. J Vis Exp 2023:10.3791/65775. [PMID: 37578251 PMCID: PMC11064985 DOI: 10.3791/65775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Caenorhabditis elegans is a common model organism for research in genetics, development, aging, metabolism, and behavior. Because C. elegans consume a diet of live bacteria, the metabolic activity of their food source can confound experiments looking for the direct effects of various interventions on the worm. To avoid the confounding effects of bacterial metabolism, C. elegans researchers have used multiple methods to metabolically inactivate bacteria, including ultraviolet (UV)-irradiation, heat-killing, and antibiotics. UV treatment is relatively low-throughput and cannot be used in liquid culture because each plate must be examined for successful bacterial killing. A second treatment method, heat-killing, negatively affects the texture and nutritional quality of the bacteria, leading to the developmental arrest of C. elegans. Finally, antibiotic treatment can directly alter C. elegans physiology in addition to preventing bacterial growth. This manuscript describes an alternative method to metabolically inactivate bacteria using paraformaldehyde (PFA). PFA treatment cross-links proteins within bacterial cells to prevent metabolic activity while preserving cellular structure and nutritional content. This method is high-throughput and can be used in liquid culture or solid plates, as testing one plate of PFA-treated bacteria for growth validates the whole batch. Metabolic inactivation through PFA treatment can be used to eliminate the confounding effects of bacterial metabolism on studies of drug or metabolite supplementation, stress resistance, metabolomics, and behavior in C. elegans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safa Beydoun
- Molecular and Integrative Physiology Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Elizabeth S Kitto
- Molecular and Integrative Physiology Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Emily Wang
- Molecular and Integrative Physiology Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Shijiao Huang
- Molecular and Integrative Physiology Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Scott F Leiser
- Molecular and Integrative Physiology Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor;
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42
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Ribeiro C, Farmer CK, de Magalhães JP, Freitas AA. Predicting lifespan-extending chemical compounds for C. elegans with machine learning and biologically interpretable features. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:6073-6099. [PMID: 37450404 PMCID: PMC10373959 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Recently, there has been a growing interest in the development of pharmacological interventions targeting ageing, as well as in the use of machine learning for analysing ageing-related data. In this work, we use machine learning methods to analyse data from DrugAge, a database of chemical compounds (including drugs) modulating lifespan in model organisms. To this end, we created four types of datasets for predicting whether or not a compound extends the lifespan of C. elegans (the most frequent model organism in DrugAge), using four different types of predictive biological features, based on: compound-protein interactions, interactions between compounds and proteins encoded by ageing-related genes, and two types of terms annotated for proteins targeted by the compounds, namely Gene Ontology (GO) terms and physiology terms from the WormBase's Phenotype Ontology. To analyse these datasets, we used a combination of feature selection methods in a data pre-processing phase and the well-established random forest algorithm for learning predictive models from the selected features. In addition, we interpreted the most important features in the two best models in light of the biology of ageing. One noteworthy feature was the GO term "Glutathione metabolic process", which plays an important role in cellular redox homeostasis and detoxification. We also predicted the most promising novel compounds for extending lifespan from a list of previously unlabelled compounds. These include nitroprusside, which is used as an antihypertensive medication. Overall, our work opens avenues for future work in employing machine learning to predict novel life-extending compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caio Ribeiro
- School of Computing, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
| | | | - João Pedro de Magalhães
- Genomics of Ageing and Rejuvenation Lab, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alex A. Freitas
- School of Computing, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
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43
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Poorna R, Chen WW, Qiu P, Cicerone MT. Toward Gene-Correlated Spatially Resolved Metabolomics with Fingerprint Coherent Raman Imaging. J Phys Chem B 2023; 127:5576-5587. [PMID: 37311254 PMCID: PMC10316396 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c01446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Raman spectroscopy has long been known to provide sufficient information to discriminate distinct cell phenotypes. Underlying this discriminating capability is that Raman spectra provide an overall readout of the metabolic profiles that change with transcriptomic activity. Robustly associating Raman spectral changes with the regulation of specific signaling pathways may be possible, but the spectral signals of interest may be weak and vary somewhat among individuals. Establishing a Raman-to-transcriptome mapping will thus require tightly controlled and easily manipulated biological systems and high-throughput spectral acquisition. We attempt to meet these requirements using broadband coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (BCARS) microscopy to spatio-spectrally map the C. elegans hermaphrodite gonad in vivo at subcellular resolution. The C. elegans hermaphrodite gonad is an ideal model system with a sequential, continuous process of highly regulated spatiotemporal cellular events. We demonstrate that the BCARS spatio-spectral signatures correlate with gene expression profiles in the gonad, evincing that BCARS has potential as a spatially resolved omics surrogate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajas Poorna
- Department
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Wei-Wen Chen
- Department
of Chemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Peng Qiu
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute
of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Marcus T. Cicerone
- Department
of Chemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
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Okoro NO, Odiba AS, Yu Q, He B, Liao G, Jin C, Fang W, Wang B. Polysaccharides Extracted from Dendrobium officinale Grown in Different Environments Elicit Varying Health Benefits in Caenorhabditis elegans. Nutrients 2023; 15:2641. [PMID: 37375545 DOI: 10.3390/nu15122641] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendrobium officinale is one of the most widely used medicinal herbs, especially in Asia. In recent times, the polysaccharide content of D. officinale has garnered attention due to the numerous reports of its medicinal properties, such as anticancer, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, and anti-aging activities. However, few reports of its anti-aging potential are available. Due to high demand, the wild D. officinale is scarce; hence, alternative cultivation methods are being employed. In this study, we used the Caenorhabditis elegans model to investigate the anti-aging potential of polysaccharides extracted from D. officinale (DOP) grown in three different environments; tree (TR), greenhouse (GH), and rock (RK). Our findings showed that at 1000 µg/mL, GH-DOP optimally extended the mean lifespan by 14% and the maximum lifespan by 25% (p < 0.0001). TR-DOP and RK-DOP did not extend their lifespan at any of the concentrations tested. We further showed that 2000 µg/mL TR-DOP, GH-DOP, or RK-DOP all enhanced resistance to H2O2-induced stress (p > 0.05, p < 0.01, and p < 0.01, respectively). In contrast, only RK-DOP exhibited resistance (p < 0.01) to thermal stress. Overall, DOP from the three sources all increased HSP-4::GFP levels, indicating a boost in the ability of the worms to respond to ER-related stress. Similarly, DOP from all three sources decreased α-synuclein aggregation; however, only GH-DOP delayed β-amyloid-induced paralysis (p < 0.0001). Our findings provide useful information on the health benefits of DOP and also provide clues on the best practices for cultivating D. officinale for maximum medicinal applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nkwachukwu Oziamara Okoro
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, China
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka 410001, Nigeria
| | - Arome Solomon Odiba
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, China
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Qi Yu
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, China
| | - Bin He
- School of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangxi Vocational and Technical College, Nanning 530226, China
| | - Guiyan Liao
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, China
| | - Cheng Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Wenxia Fang
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning 530007, China
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Yokoyama I, Setoyama O, Jia Y, Fujita N, Waki A, Komiya Y, Nagasao J, Arihara K. Effects of the dipeptides comprising leucine and lysine on lifespan and age-related stress in Caenorhabditis elegans. Food Sci Nutr 2023; 11:2776-2786. [PMID: 37324921 PMCID: PMC10261761 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The aging process is affected by various stressors. An increase in oxidative stress is related to the impairment of physiological functions and enhancement of glycative stress. Food-derived bioactive peptides have various physiological functions, including antioxidant activities. Dipeptides comprising Leu and Lys (LK and KL, respectively) have been isolated from foods; however, their physiological properties remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the antioxidant/antiglycation activity of dipeptides and their antiaging effects using Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). Both dipeptides showed antioxidant activities against several reactive oxygen species (ROS) in vitro. In particular, the scavenging activity of LK against superoxide radicals was higher than KL did. Moreover, dipeptides suppressed advanced glycation end products (AGEs) formation in the BSA-glucose model. In the lifespan assays using wild-type C. elegans, both LK and KL significantly prolonged the mean lifespan by 20.9% and 11.7%, respectively. In addition, LK decreased intracellular ROS and superoxide radical levels in C. elegans. Blue autofluorescence, an indicator of glycation in C. elegans with age, was also suppressed by LK. These results suggest that dipeptides, notably LK, show an antiaging effect by suppressing oxidative and glycative stress. Our findings suggest that such dipeptides can be used as a novel functional food ingredient. Food-derived dipeptide Leu-Lys (LK) and Lys-Leu (KL) exert antioxidant and antiglycation activity in vitro. Treatment with LK prolonged the mean lifespan and maximum lifespan of C. elegans more than that of KL. Intracellular ROS and blue autofluorescence levels (indicator of aging) were suppressed by LK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Issei Yokoyama
- School of Veterinary MedicineKitasato UniversityTowadaJapan
- College of Bioresource SciencesNihon UniversityFujisawaJapan
| | - Ou Setoyama
- Kanagawa Institute of Industrial Science and TechnologyEbinaJapan
| | - Yaqi Jia
- School of Veterinary MedicineKitasato UniversityTowadaJapan
| | - Nana Fujita
- School of Veterinary MedicineKitasato UniversityTowadaJapan
| | - Akane Waki
- School of Veterinary MedicineKitasato UniversityTowadaJapan
| | - Yusuke Komiya
- School of Veterinary MedicineKitasato UniversityTowadaJapan
| | - Jun Nagasao
- School of Veterinary MedicineKitasato UniversityTowadaJapan
| | - Keizo Arihara
- School of Veterinary MedicineKitasato UniversityTowadaJapan
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46
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Bugyna L, Kendra S, Bujdáková H. Galleria mellonella-A Model for the Study of aPDT-Prospects and Drawbacks. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1455. [PMID: 37374956 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Galleria mellonella is a promising in vivo model insect used for microbiological, medical, and pharmacological research. It provides a platform for testing the biocompatibility of various compounds and the kinetics of survival after an infection followed by subsequent treatment, and for the evaluation of various parameters during treatment, including the host-pathogen interaction. There are some similarities in the development of pathologies with mammals. However, a limitation is the lack of adaptive immune response. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) is an alternative approach for combating microbial infections, including biofilm-associated ones. aPDT is effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, regardless of whether they are resistant to conventional treatment. The main idea of this comprehensive review was to collect information on the use of G. mellonella in aPDT. It provides a collection of references published in the last 10 years from this area of research, complemented by some practical experiences of the authors of this review. Additionally, the review summarizes in brief information on the G. mellonella model, its advantages and methods used in the processing of material from these larvae, as well as basic knowledge of the principles of aPDT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larysa Bugyna
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Virology, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovicova 6, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Samuel Kendra
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Virology, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovicova 6, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Helena Bujdáková
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Virology, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovicova 6, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia
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Bresgen N, Kovacs M, Lahnsteiner A, Felder TK, Rinnerthaler M. The Janus-Faced Role of Lipid Droplets in Aging: Insights from the Cellular Perspective. Biomolecules 2023; 13:912. [PMID: 37371492 DOI: 10.3390/biom13060912] [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: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
It is widely accepted that nine hallmarks-including mitochondrial dysfunction, epigenetic alterations, and loss of proteostasis-exist that describe the cellular aging process. Adding to this, a well-described cell organelle in the metabolic context, namely, lipid droplets, also accumulates with increasing age, which can be regarded as a further aging-associated process. Independently of their essential role as fat stores, lipid droplets are also able to control cell integrity by mitigating lipotoxic and proteotoxic insults. As we will show in this review, numerous longevity interventions (such as mTOR inhibition) also lead to strong accumulation of lipid droplets in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila melanogaster, and mammalian cells, just to name a few examples. In mammals, due to the variety of different cell types and tissues, the role of lipid droplets during the aging process is much more complex. Using selected diseases associated with aging, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, type II diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, we show that lipid droplets are "Janus"-faced. In an early phase of the disease, lipid droplets mitigate the toxicity of lipid peroxidation and protein aggregates, but in a later phase of the disease, a strong accumulation of lipid droplets can cause problems for cells and tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaus Bresgen
- Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Melanie Kovacs
- Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Angelika Lahnsteiner
- Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Thomas Klaus Felder
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Mark Rinnerthaler
- Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
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Pang X, Mao L, Ye D, Wang W, Yang H, Fan X, Yang Y, Su Z, Ma T, Sun M, Liu Y. Synthesis, anti-aging and mechanism of magnolol derivatives. Front Chem 2023; 11:1180375. [PMID: 37288076 PMCID: PMC10242077 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1180375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Magnolol (M), a hydroquinone containing an allyl side chain, is one of the major active components of Houpoea officinalis for antioxidation and anti-aging. To enhance the antioxidant activity of magnolol, the different sites of magnolol were structurally modified in this experiment, and a total of 12 magnolol derivatives were obtained. Based on the preliminary exploration of the anti-aging effect of magnolol derivatives in a Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) model. Our results indicate that the active groups of magnolol exerting anti-aging effects were allyl groups and hydroxyl on the phenyl. Meanwhile, the anti-aging effect of the novel magnolol derivative M27 was found to be significantly superior to that of magnolol. To investigate the effect of M27 on senescence and the potential mechanism of action, we investigated the effect of M27 on senescence in C. elegans. In this study, we investigated the effect of M27 on C. elegans physiology by examining body length, body curvature and pharyngeal pumping frequency. The effect of M27 on stress resistance in C. elegans was explored by acute stress experiments. The mechanism of M27 anti-aging was investigated by measuring ROS content, DAF-16 nuclear translocation, sod-3 expression, and lifespan of transgenic nematodes. Our results indicate that M27 prolonged the lifespan of C. elegans. Meanwhile, M27 improved the healthy lifespan of C. elegans by improving pharyngeal pumping ability and reducing lipofuscin accumulation in C. elegans. M27 increased resistance to high temperature and oxidative stress in C. elegans by reducing ROS. M27 induced DAF-16 translocation from cytoplasm to nucleus in transgenic TJ356 nematodes and upregulated the expression of sod-3 (a gene downstream of DAF-16) in CF1553 nematodes. Furthermore, M27 did not extend the lifespan of daf-16, age-1, daf-2, and hsp-16.2 mutants. This work suggests that M27 may ameliorate aging and extend lifespan in C. elegans through the IIS pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Pang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Li Mao
- Beijing Tide Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd., Beijing Econnomi Technological Development Area (BDA), Beijing, China
| | - Danyang Ye
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wenqi Wang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hongliu Yang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Fan
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yuping Yang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhijun Su
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Ma
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Mingqian Sun
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yonggang Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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Anilkumar A, Batra A, Talukder S, Sharma R. Microfluidics based bioimaging with cost-efficient fabrication of multi-level micrometer-sized trenches. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2023; 17:034103. [PMID: 37334275 PMCID: PMC10275646 DOI: 10.1063/5.0151868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic devices, through their vast applicability as tools for miniaturized experimental setups, have become indispensable for cutting edge research and diagnostics. However, the high operational cost and the requirement of sophisticated equipment and clean room facility for the fabrication of these devices make their use unfeasible for many research laboratories in resource limited settings. Therefore, with the aim of increasing accessibility, in this article, we report a novel, cost-effective micro-fabrication technique for fabricating multi-layer microfluidic devices using only common wet-lab facilities, thereby significantly lowering the cost. Our proposed process-flow-design eliminates the need for a mastermold, does not require any sophisticated lithography tools, and can be executed successfully outside a clean room. In this work, we also optimized the critical steps (such as spin coating and wet etching) of our fabrication process and validated the process flow and the device by trapping and imaging Caenorhabditis elegans. The fabricated devices are effective in conducting lifetime assays and flushing out larvae, which are, in general, manually picked from Petri dishes or separated using sieves. Our technique is not only cost effective but also scalable, as it can be used to fabricate devices with multiple layers of confinements ranging from 0.6 to more than 50 μ m, thus enabling the study of unicellular and multicellular organisms. This technique, therefore, has the potential to be adopted widely by many research laboratories for a variety of applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand Anilkumar
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal 462066, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Abhilasha Batra
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal 462066, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Santanu Talukder
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal 462066, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Rati Sharma
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal 462066, Madhya Pradesh, India
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50
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Yu Y, Chen J, An L, Huang T, Wang W, Cheng Z, Wang L, Xu X, Zhao Z, Fu X, Ma J. Knockdown of phosphatases of regenerating liver-1 prolongs the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans via activating DAF-16/FOXO. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22844. [PMID: 36906287 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202202003r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
Phosphatases of regenerating liver (PRLs) are dual-specificity protein phosphatases. The aberrant expression of PRLs threatens human health, but their biological functions and pathogenic mechanisms are unclear yet. Herein, the structure and biological functions of PRLs were investigated using the Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). Structurally, this phosphatase in C. elegans, named PRL-1, consisted of a conserved signature sequence WPD loop and a single C(X)5 R domain. Besides, by Western blot, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining, PRL-1 was proved to mainly express in larval stages and express in intestinal tissues. Afterward, by feeding-based RNA-interference method, knockdown of prl-1 prolonged the lifespan of C. elegans but also improved their healthspan, such as locomotion, pharyngeal pumping frequency, and defecation interval time. Furthermore, the above effects of prl-1 appeared to be taken without acting on germline signaling, diet restriction pathway, insulin/insulin-like growth factor 1 signaling pathway, and SIR-2.1 but through a DAF-16-dependent pathway. Moreover, knockdown of prl-1 induced the nuclear translocation of DAF-16, and upregulated the expression of daf-16, sod-3, mtl-1, and ctl-2. Finally, suppression of prl-1 also reduced the ROS. In conclusion, suppression of prl-1 enhanced the lifespan and survival quality of C. elegans, which provides a theoretical basis for the pathogenesis of PRLs in related human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoru Yu
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jing Chen
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lu An
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Tianci Huang
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wenbo Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ziqi Cheng
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lu Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xuesong Xu
- Clinical Laboratory of China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhizhuang Zhao
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Xueqi Fu
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Junfeng Ma
- National Engineering Laboratory for AIDS Vaccine, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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