1
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Oba GM, Nakato R. Clover: An unbiased method for prioritizing differentially expressed genes using a data-driven approach. Genes Cells 2024; 29:456-470. [PMID: 38602264 PMCID: PMC11163938 DOI: 10.1111/gtc.13119] [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: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Identifying key genes from a list of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) is a critical step in transcriptome analysis. However, current methods, including Gene Ontology analysis and manual annotation, essentially rely on existing knowledge, which is highly biased depending on the extent of the literature. As a result, understudied genes, some of which may be associated with important molecular mechanisms, are often ignored or remain obscure. To address this problem, we propose Clover, a data-driven scoring method to specifically highlight understudied genes. Clover aims to prioritize genes associated with important molecular mechanisms by integrating three metrics: the likelihood of appearing in the DEG list, tissue specificity, and number of publications. We applied Clover to Alzheimer's disease data and confirmed that it successfully detected known associated genes. Moreover, Clover effectively prioritized understudied but potentially druggable genes. Overall, our method offers a novel approach to gene characterization and has the potential to expand our understanding of gene functions. Clover is an open-source software written in Python3 and available on GitHub at https://github.com/G708/Clover.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina Miku Oba
- Laboratory of Computational Genomics, Institute for Quantitative BiosciencesUniversity of TokyoTokyoJapan
- Department of Computational Biology and Medical Science, Graduate School of Frontier ScienceUniversity of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Ryuichiro Nakato
- Laboratory of Computational Genomics, Institute for Quantitative BiosciencesUniversity of TokyoTokyoJapan
- Department of Computational Biology and Medical Science, Graduate School of Frontier ScienceUniversity of TokyoTokyoJapan
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2
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Wang Y, Huang J, Ang TFA, Zhu Y, Tao Q, Mez J, Alosco M, Denis GV, Belkina A, Gurnani A, Ross M, Gong B, Han J, Lunetta KL, Stein TD, Au R, Farrer LA, Zhang X, Qiu WQ. The association between circulating CD34+CD133+ endothelial progenitor cells and reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease in the Framingham Heart Study. EXPLORATION OF MEDICINE 2024; 5:193-214. [PMID: 38854406 PMCID: PMC11160969 DOI: 10.37349/emed.2024.00216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim Endothelial dysfunction has been associated with both cerebrovascular pathology and Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the connection between circulating endothelial cells and the risk of AD remains uncertain. The objective was to leverage data from the Framingham Heart Study to investigate various circulating endothelial subtypes and their potential correlations with the risk of AD. Methods The study conducted data analyses using Cox proportional hazard regression and linear regression methods. Additionally, genome-wide association study (GWAS) was carried out to further explore the data. Results Among the eleven distinct circulating endothelial subtypes, only circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) expressing CD34+CD133+ were found to be negatively and dose-dependently associated with reduced AD risk. This association persisted even after adjusting for age, sex, years of education, apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 status, and various vascular diseases. Particularly noteworthy was the significant association observed in individuals with hypertension and cerebral microbleeds. Consistently, positive associations were identified between CD34+CD133+ EPCs and specific brain regions, such as higher proportions of circulating CD34+CD133+ cells correlating with increased volumes of white matter and the hippocampus. Additionally, a GWAS study unveiled that CD34+CD133+ cells influenced AD risk specifically in individuals with homozygous genotypes for variants in two stem cell-related genes: kirre like nephrin family adhesion molecule 3 (KIRREL3, rs580382 CC and rs4144611 TT) and exocyst complex component 6B (EXOC6B, rs61619102 CC). Conclusions The findings suggest that circulating CD34+CD133+ EPCs possess a protective effect and may offer a new therapeutic avenue for AD, especially in individuals with vascular pathology and those carrying specific genotypes of KIRREL3 and EXOC6B genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Wang
- Biomedical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Jinghan Huang
- Biomedical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ting Fang Alvin Ang
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Yibo Zhu
- Biomedical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Qiushan Tao
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Jesse Mez
- Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Department of Neurology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Framingham Heart Study, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Michael Alosco
- Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Department of Neurology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Gerald V. Denis
- Hematology & Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Anna Belkina
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Ashita Gurnani
- Department of Neurology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Framingham Heart Study, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Mark Ross
- School of Energy, Geosciences, Infrastructure and Society, Institute of Life and Earth Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, EH14 4AS Edinburgh, UK
| | - Bin Gong
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Jingyan Han
- Vascular Biology, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Kathryn L. Lunetta
- Departments of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Thor D. Stein
- Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02132, USA
| | - Rhoda Au
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Department of Neurology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Framingham Heart Study, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Departments of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Lindsay A. Farrer
- Biomedical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Department of Neurology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Framingham Heart Study, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Departments of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Departments of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Xiaoling Zhang
- Biomedical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Departments of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Wei Qiao Qiu
- Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
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3
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Liu G, Yu Q, Zhu H, Tan B, Yu H, Li X, Lu Y, Li H. Amyloid-β mediates intestinal dysfunction and enteric neurons loss in Alzheimer's disease transgenic mouse. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:351. [PMID: 37930455 PMCID: PMC11072809 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04948-9] [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: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is traditionally considered as a brain disorder featured by amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition. The current study on whether pathological changes of AD extend to the enteric nervous system (ENS) is still in its infancy. In this study, we found enteric Aβ deposition, intestinal dysfunction, and colonic inflammation in the young APP/PS1 mice. Moreover, these mice exhibited cholinergic and nitrergic signaling pathways damages and enteric neuronal loss. Our data show that Aβ42 treatment remarkably affected the gene expression of cultured myenteric neurons and the spontaneous contraction of intestinal smooth muscles. The intra-colon administration of Aβ42 induced ENS dysfunction, brain gliosis, and β-amyloidosis-like changes in the wild-type mice. Our results suggest that ENS mirrors the neuropathology observed in AD brains, and intestinal pathological changes may represent the prodromal events, which contribute to brain pathology in AD. In summary, our findings provide new opportunities for AD early diagnosis and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoqiang Liu
- Medical College, Hubei University for Nationalities, Enshi, 445000, Hubei, China
| | - Quntao Yu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 4030030, China
- Wuhan Center of Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Houze Zhu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 4030030, China
- Wuhan Center of Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Bo Tan
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 4030030, China
- Wuhan Center of Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Hongyan Yu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 4030030, China
- Wuhan Center of Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xinyan Li
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 4030030, China
- Wuhan Center of Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Youming Lu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 4030030, China.
- Wuhan Center of Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Hao Li
- Wuhan Center of Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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4
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Georgieva I, Tchekalarova J, Iliev D, Tzoneva R. Endothelial Senescence and Its Impact on Angiogenesis in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11344. [PMID: 37511104 PMCID: PMC10379128 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411344] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells are constantly exposed to environmental stress factors that, above a certain threshold, trigger cellular senescence and apoptosis. The altered vascular function affects new vessel formation and endothelial fitness, contributing to the progression of age-related diseases. This narrative review highlights the complex interplay between senescence, oxidative stress, extracellular vesicles, and the extracellular matrix and emphasizes the crucial role of angiogenesis in aging and Alzheimer's disease. The interaction between the vascular and nervous systems is essential for the development of a healthy brain, especially since neurons are exceptionally dependent on nutrients carried by the blood. Therefore, anomalies in the delicate balance between pro- and antiangiogenic factors and the consequences of disrupted angiogenesis, such as misalignment, vascular leakage and disturbed blood flow, are responsible for neurodegeneration. The implications of altered non-productive angiogenesis in Alzheimer's disease due to dysregulated Delta-Notch and VEGF signaling are further explored. Additionally, potential therapeutic strategies such as exercise and caloric restriction to modulate angiogenesis and vascular aging and to mitigate the associated debilitating symptoms are discussed. Moreover, both the roles of extracellular vesicles in stress-induced senescence and as an early detection marker for Alzheimer's disease are considered. The intricate relationship between endothelial senescence and angiogenesis provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying angiogenesis-related disorders and opens avenues for future research and therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Georgieva
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. George Bonchev, Str. Bl. 21, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Jana Tchekalarova
- Institute of Neurobiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. George Bonchev, Str. Bl. 23, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Dimitar Iliev
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. George Bonchev, Str. Bl. 21, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Rumiana Tzoneva
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. George Bonchev, Str. Bl. 21, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
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5
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Merchant JP, Zhu K, Henrion MYR, Zaidi SSA, Lau B, Moein S, Alamprese ML, Pearse RV, Bennett DA, Ertekin-Taner N, Young-Pearse TL, Chang R. Predictive network analysis identifies JMJD6 and other potential key drivers in Alzheimer's disease. Commun Biol 2023; 6:503. [PMID: 37188718 PMCID: PMC10185548 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04791-5] [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: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite decades of genetic studies on late-onset Alzheimer's disease, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. To better comprehend its complex etiology, we use an integrative approach to build robust predictive (causal) network models using two large human multi-omics datasets. We delineate bulk-tissue gene expression into single cell-type gene expression and integrate clinical and pathologic traits, single nucleotide variation, and deconvoluted gene expression for the construction of cell type-specific predictive network models. Here, we focus on neuron-specific network models and prioritize 19 predicted key drivers modulating Alzheimer's pathology, which we then validate by knockdown in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons. We find that neuronal knockdown of 10 of the 19 targets significantly modulates levels of amyloid-beta and/or phosphorylated tau peptides, most notably JMJD6. We also confirm our network structure by RNA sequencing in the neurons following knockdown of each of the 10 targets, which additionally predicts that they are upstream regulators of REST and VGF. Our work thus identifies robust neuronal key drivers of the Alzheimer's-associated network state which may represent therapeutic targets with relevance to both amyloid and tau pathology in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie P Merchant
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kuixi Zhu
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Marc Y R Henrion
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, Pembroke Place, L3 5QA, UK
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, PO Box 30096, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Syed S A Zaidi
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Branden Lau
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Arizona Research Labs, Genetics Core, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Sara Moein
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Melissa L Alamprese
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Richard V Pearse
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David A Bennett
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nilüfer Ertekin-Taner
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic Florida, Jacksonville, FL, USA
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic Florida, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Tracy L Young-Pearse
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Rui Chang
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.
- Department of Neurology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.
- INTelico Therapeutics LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA.
- PATH Biotech LLC, Tucson, AZ, USA.
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6
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Tarawneh R. Microvascular Contributions to Alzheimer Disease Pathogenesis: Is Alzheimer Disease Primarily an Endotheliopathy? Biomolecules 2023; 13:830. [PMID: 37238700 PMCID: PMC10216678 DOI: 10.3390/biom13050830] [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: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer disease (AD) models are based on the notion that abnormal protein aggregation is the primary event in AD, which begins a decade or longer prior to symptom onset, and culminates in neurodegeneration; however, emerging evidence from animal and clinical studies suggests that reduced blood flow due to capillary loss and endothelial dysfunction are early and primary events in AD pathogenesis, which may precede amyloid and tau aggregation, and contribute to neuronal and synaptic injury via direct and indirect mechanisms. Recent data from clinical studies suggests that endothelial dysfunction is closely associated with cognitive outcomes in AD and that therapeutic strategies which promote endothelial repair in early AD may offer a potential opportunity to prevent or slow disease progression. This review examines evidence from clinical, imaging, neuropathological, and animal studies supporting vascular contributions to the onset and progression of AD pathology. Together, these observations support the notion that the onset of AD may be primarily influenced by vascular, rather than neurodegenerative, mechanisms and emphasize the importance of further investigations into the vascular hypothesis of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawan Tarawneh
- Department of Neurology, Center for Memory and Aging, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA
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7
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Longo M, Di Meo I, Caruso P, Francesca Muscio M, Scappaticcio L, Maio A, Ida Maiorino M, Bellastella G, Signoriello G, Knop FK, Rosaria Rizzo M, Esposito K. Circulating levels of endothelial progenitor cells are associated with better cognitive function in older adults with glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist-treated type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2023; 200:110688. [PMID: 37116797 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2023.110688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To evaluate cognitive function in subjects with type 2 diabetes (T2D) treated with glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) plus metformin or metformin alone and its association with endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). METHODS Adults with T2D treated with GLP-1RA plus metformin (GLP-1RA + MET) or MET alone for at least 12 months were included. Montreal Cognitive Assessment test (MoCA), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) and disability tests were administered. Circulating levels of seven EPCs phenotypes were measured by flow cytometry. RESULTS A total of 154 elderly patients were included, of whom 78 in GLP-1RA + MET group and 76 in MET group. The GLP-1RA + MET group showed better cognitive function as indicated by a significant higher MoCA and MMSE scores, and higher levels of CD34+ CD133+, CD133+ KDR+, and CD34+ CD133+ KDR+ as compared with MET group. The number of CD34+ CD133+ KDR+ cells was an independent predictor of higher MoCA, MMSE and MNA scores. CONCLUSIONS People with T2D on GLP-1RA + MET treatment had better cognitive function and higher circulating levels of EPCs as compared with those on MET alone warranting further studies to understand the interrelationship between EPCs, GLP-RA treatment and cognitive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Longo
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, AOU University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.
| | - Irene Di Meo
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Division of Geriatrics and Internal Medicine, AOU University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Caruso
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, AOU University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Francesca Muscio
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Division of Geriatrics and Internal Medicine, AOU University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Scappaticcio
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, AOU University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Antonietta Maio
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, AOU University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Ida Maiorino
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, AOU University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bellastella
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, AOU University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Signoriello
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Filip K Knop
- Center for Clinical Metabolic Research, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hellerup, Denmark, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maria Rosaria Rizzo
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Division of Geriatrics and Internal Medicine, AOU University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Katherine Esposito
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy; Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, AOU University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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8
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Custodia A, Aramburu-Núñez M, Rodríguez-Arrizabalaga M, Pías-Peleteiro JM, Vázquez-Vázquez L, Camino-Castiñeiras J, Aldrey JM, Castillo J, Ouro A, Sobrino T, Romaus-Sanjurjo D. Biomarkers Assessing Endothelial Dysfunction in Alzheimer's Disease. Cells 2023; 12:cells12060962. [PMID: 36980302 PMCID: PMC10047803 DOI: 10.3390/cells12060962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common degenerative disorder in the elderly in developed countries. Currently, growing evidence is pointing at endothelial dysfunction as a key player in the cognitive decline course of AD. As a main component of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), the dysfunction of endothelial cells driven by vascular risk factors associated with AD allows the passage of toxic substances to the cerebral parenchyma, producing chronic hypoperfusion that eventually causes an inflammatory and neurotoxic response. In this process, the levels of several biomarkers are disrupted, such as an increase in adhesion molecules that allow the passage of leukocytes to the cerebral parenchyma, increasing the permeability of the BBB; moreover, other vascular players, including endothelin-1, also mediate artery inflammation. As a consequence of the disruption of the BBB, a progressive neuroinflammatory response is produced that, added to the astrogliosis, eventually triggers neuronal degeneration (possibly responsible for cognitive deterioration). Recently, new molecules have been proposed as early biomarkers for endothelial dysfunction that can constitute new therapeutic targets as well as early diagnostic and prognostic markers for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antía Custodia
- NeuroAging Group (NEURAL), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Aramburu-Núñez
- NeuroAging Group (NEURAL), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mariña Rodríguez-Arrizabalaga
- NeuroAging Group (NEURAL), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Juan Manuel Pías-Peleteiro
- NeuroAging Group (NEURAL), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Vázquez-Vázquez
- NeuroAging Group (NEURAL), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Camino-Castiñeiras
- NeuroAging Group (NEURAL), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - José Manuel Aldrey
- NeuroAging Group (NEURAL), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - José Castillo
- Neuroimaging and Biotechnology Laboratory (NOBEL), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Alberto Ouro
- NeuroAging Group (NEURAL), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Tomás Sobrino
- NeuroAging Group (NEURAL), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Romaus-Sanjurjo
- NeuroAging Group (NEURAL), Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory (LINC), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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9
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Role of Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Frailty. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032139. [PMID: 36768461 PMCID: PMC9916666 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032139] [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: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Frailty is a clinical condition closely related to aging which is characterized by a multidimensional decline in biological reserves, a failure of physiological mechanisms and vulnerability to minor stressors. Chronic inflammation, the impairment of endothelial function, age-related endocrine system modifications and immunosenescence are important mechanisms in the pathophysiology of frailty. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are considered important contributors of the endothelium homeostasis and turn-over. In the elderly, EPCs are impaired in terms of function, number and survival. In addition, the modification of EPCs' level and function has been widely demonstrated in atherosclerosis, hypertension and diabetes mellitus, which are the most common age-related diseases. The purpose of this review is to illustrate the role of EPCs in frailty. Initially, we describe the endothelial dysfunction in frailty, the response of EPCs to the endothelial dysfunction associated with frailty and, finally, interventions which may restore the EPCs expression and function in frail people.
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10
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Gan J, Yang X, Zhang G, Li X, Liu S, Zhang W, Ji Y. Alzheimer's disease pathology: pathways between chronic vascular risk factors and blood-brain barrier dysfunction in a cohort of patients with different types of dementia. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1088140. [PMID: 37213537 PMCID: PMC10194826 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1088140] [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: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Blood brain barrier (BBB) breakdown is considered a potential mechanism of dementia. The Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers and vascular factors are also associated with BBB permeability. Objective In the present study, the combination effects of neuropathological biomarkers of AD and chronic vascular risk factors for BBB were investigated. Methods The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)/serum albumin ratio (Qalb), an indicator of BBB permeability, was measured in a total of 95 hospitalized dementia patients. The demographics, clinical information, and laboratory tests were collected from the inpatient records. The CSF neuropathological biomarkers of AD and apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype were also collected. The mediation analysis model was used to calculate the associations among neuropathological biomarkers of AD (mediator), the Qalb, and chronic vascular risk factors. Results Three types of dementia, AD (n = 52), Lewy body dementia (LBD, n = 19), and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (n = 24), were included with a mean Qalb of 7.18 (± 4.36). The Qalb was significantly higher in dementia patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM, p = 0.004) but did not differ based on the presence of APOE ε4 allele, CMBs, or amyloid/tau/neurodegeneration (ATN) framework. The Qalb was negatively associated with the levels of Aβ1-42 (B = -20.775, p = 0.009) and Aβ1-40 (B = -305.417, p = 0.005) and positively associated with the presence of T2DM (B = 3.382, p < 0.001) and the levels of glycosylated hemoglobin (GHb, B = 1.163, p < 0.001) and fasting blood glucose (FBG, B = 1.443, p < 0.001). GHb is a direct chronic vascular risk factor for higher Qalb (total effect B = 1.135, 95% CI: 0.611-1.659, p < 0.001). Ratios of Aβ1-42/Aβ1-40 or t-tau/Aβ1-42 were mediators of the association between the Qalb and GHb; the direct effect of GHb on the Qalb was 1.178 (95% CI: 0.662-1.694, p < 0.001). Conclusion Glucose exposure can directly or indirectly affect BBB integrity through Aβ and tau, indicating glucose affects BBB breakdown and glucose stability plays an important role in dementia protection and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghuan Gan
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xia Yang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Guili Zhang
- Department of Cognitive Disorder, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Xudong Li
- Department of Cognitive Disorder, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Shuai Liu
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Dementia Institute, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Tianjin Huanhu Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Cognitive Disorder, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Ji
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Dementia Institute, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Tianjin Huanhu Hospital, Tianjin, China
- *Correspondence: Yong Ji
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11
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Sousa JA, Bernardes C, Bernardo-Castro S, Lino M, Albino I, Ferreira L, Brás J, Guerreiro R, Tábuas-Pereira M, Baldeiras I, Santana I, Sargento-Freitas J. Reconsidering the role of blood-brain barrier in Alzheimer's disease: From delivery to target. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1102809. [PMID: 36875694 PMCID: PMC9978015 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1102809] [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: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The existence of a selective blood-brain barrier (BBB) and neurovascular coupling are two unique central nervous system vasculature features that result in an intimate relationship between neurons, glia, and blood vessels. This leads to a significant pathophysiological overlap between neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular diseases. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease whose pathogenesis is still to be unveiled but has mostly been explored under the light of the amyloid-cascade hypothesis. Either as a trigger, bystander, or consequence of neurodegeneration, vascular dysfunction is an early component of the pathological conundrum of AD. The anatomical and functional substrate of this neurovascular degeneration is the BBB, a dynamic and semi-permeable interface between blood and the central nervous system that has consistently been shown to be defective. Several molecular and genetic changes have been demonstrated to mediate vascular dysfunction and BBB disruption in AD. The isoform ε4 of Apolipoprotein E is at the same time the strongest genetic risk factor for AD and a known promoter of BBB dysfunction. Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP-1), P-glycoprotein, and receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) are examples of BBB transporters implicated in its pathogenesis due to their role in the trafficking of amyloid-β. This disease is currently devoid of strategies that change the natural course of this burdening illness. This unsuccess may partly be explained by our misunderstanding of the disease pathogenesis and our inability to develop drugs that are effectively delivered to the brain. BBB may represent a therapeutic opportunity as a target itself or as a therapeutic vehicle. In this review, we aim to explore the role of BBB in the pathogenesis of AD including the genetic background and detail how it can be targeted in future therapeutic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- João André Sousa
- Department of Neurology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Catarina Bernardes
- Department of Neurology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sara Bernardo-Castro
- Department of Neurology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Miguel Lino
- Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Inês Albino
- Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Lino Ferreira
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - José Brás
- Department of Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Rita Guerreiro
- Department of Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Miguel Tábuas-Pereira
- Department of Neurology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Inês Baldeiras
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Isabel Santana
- Department of Neurology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Sargento-Freitas
- Department of Neurology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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12
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Romaus-Sanjurjo D, Sobrino T, Custodia A, Ouro A. CD34 + progenitor cells as diagnostic and therapeutic targets in Alzheimer’s disease. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:535-536. [DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.346485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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13
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Rudnicka-Drożak E, Drożak P, Mizerski G, Drożak M. Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Neurovascular Disorders—A Comprehensive Overview of the Current State of Knowledge. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102616. [PMID: 36289878 PMCID: PMC9599182 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are a population of cells that circulate in the blood looking for areas of endothelial or vascular injury in order to repair them. Endothelial dysfunction is an important component of disorders with neurovascular involvement. Thus, the subject of involvement of EPCs in such conditions has been gaining increasing scientific interest in recent years. Overall, decreased levels of EPCs are associated with worse disease outcome. Moreover, their functionalities appear to decline with severity of disease. These findings inspired the application of EPCs as therapeutic targets and agents. So far, EPCs appear safe and promising based on the results of pre-clinical studies conducted on their use in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and ischemic stroke. In the case of the latter, human clinical trials have recently started to be performed in this subject and provided optimistic results thus far. Whereas in the case of migraine, existing findings pave the way for testing EPCs in in vitro studies. This review aims to thoroughly summarize current knowledge on the role EPCs in four disorders with neurovascular involvement, which are Alzheimer’s disease, cerebral small vessel disease, ischemic stroke and migraine, with a particular focus on the potential practical use of these cells as a treatment remedy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Rudnicka-Drożak
- Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Langiewicza 6a, 20-035 Lublin, Poland
| | - Paulina Drożak
- Student Scientific Society, Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Langiewicza 6a, 20-035 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-669-084-455
| | - Grzegorz Mizerski
- Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Langiewicza 6a, 20-035 Lublin, Poland
| | - Martyna Drożak
- Student Scientific Society, Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Langiewicza 6a, 20-035 Lublin, Poland
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14
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Custodia A, Romaus-Sanjurjo D, Aramburu-Núñez M, Álvarez-Rafael D, Vázquez-Vázquez L, Camino-Castiñeiras J, Leira Y, Pías-Peleteiro JM, Aldrey JM, Sobrino T, Ouro A. Ceramide/Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Axis as a Key Target for Diagnosis and Treatment in Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158082. [PMID: 35897658 PMCID: PMC9331765 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is considered the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease and the leading cause of dementia worldwide. Sphingolipids, such as ceramide or sphingosine 1-phosphate, are bioactive molecules implicated in structural and signaling functions. Metabolic dysfunction in the highly conserved pathways to produce sphingolipids may lead to or be a consequence of an underlying disease. Recent studies on transcriptomics and sphingolipidomics have observed alterations in sphingolipid metabolism of both enzymes and metabolites involved in their synthesis in several neurodegenerative diseases, including AD. In this review, we highlight the most relevant findings related to ceramide and neurodegeneration, with a special focus on AD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Tomás Sobrino
- Correspondence: (T.S.); (A.O.); Tel.: +34-981951098 (T.S.); +34-664326589 (A.O.)
| | - Alberto Ouro
- Correspondence: (T.S.); (A.O.); Tel.: +34-981951098 (T.S.); +34-664326589 (A.O.)
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15
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Qin W, Li F, Jia L, Wang Q, Li Y, Wei Y, Li Y, Jin H, Jia J. Phosphorylated Tau 181 Serum Levels Predict Alzheimer’s Disease in the Preclinical Stage. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:900773. [PMID: 35769604 PMCID: PMC9234327 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.900773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is an urgent need for cost-effective, easy-to-measure biomarkers to identify subjects who will develop Alzheimer’s disease (AD), especially at the pre-symptomatic stage. This stage can be determined in autosomal dominant AD (ADAD) which offers the opportunity to observe the dynamic biomarker changes during the life-course of AD stages. This study aimed to investigate serum biomarkers during different AD stages and potential novel protein biomarkers of presymptomatic AD. Methods In the first stage, 32 individuals [20 mutation carriers including 10 with AD, and 10 with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 12 healthy controls] from ADAD families were analyzed. All subjects underwent a complete clinical evaluation and a comprehensive neuropsychological battery. Serum samples were collected from all subjects, and antibody arrays were used to analyze 170 proteins in these samples. The most promising biomarkers were identified during this screening and were then measured in serum samples of 12 subjects with pre-MCI and 20 controls. Results The serum levels of 13 proteins were significantly different in patients with AD or MCI compared to controls. Of the 13 proteins, cathepsin D, immunoglobulin E, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), von Willebrand factor (vWF), haptoglobin, and phosphorylated Tau-181 (p-Tau181) correlated with all cognitive measures (R2 = −0.69–0.76). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve of these seven proteins were 0.71–0.93 for the classification of AD and 0.57–0.95 for the classification of MCI. Higher levels of p-Tau181 were found in the serum of pre-MCI subjects than in the serum of controls. The p-Tau181 serum level might detect AD before symptoms occur (area under the curve 0.85, sensitivity 75%, specificity 81.67%). Conclusions A total of 13 serum proteins showed significant differences between subjects with AD and MCI and healthy controls. The p-Tau181 serum level might be a broadly available and cost-effective biomarker to identify individuals with preclinical AD and assess the severity of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Qin
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Fangyu Li
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Longfei Jia
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Li
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Yiping Wei
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Li
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Hongmei Jin
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Jianping Jia
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Clinical Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Memory Impairment, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Center of Alzheimer’s Disease, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jianping Jia
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16
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Alzheimer's Disease Seen through the Eye: Ocular Alterations and Neurodegeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052486. [PMID: 35269629 PMCID: PMC8910735 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is one of the main neurodegenerative diseases worldwide. Unfortunately, AD shares many similarities with other dementias at early stages, which impedes an accurate premortem diagnosis. Therefore, it is urgent to find biomarkers to allow for early diagnosis of the disease. There is increasing scientific evidence highlighting the similarities between the eye and other structures of the CNS, suggesting that knowledge acquired in eye research could be useful for research and diagnosis of AD. For example, the retina and optic nerve are considered part of the central nervous system, and their damage can result in retrograde and anterograde axon degeneration, as well as abnormal protein aggregation. In the anterior eye segment, the aqueous humor and tear film may be comparable to the cerebrospinal fluid. Both fluids are enriched with molecules that can be potential neurodegenerative biomarkers. Indeed, the pathophysiology of AD, characterized by cerebral deposits of amyloid-beta (Aβ) and tau protein, is also present in the eyes of AD patients, besides numerous structural and functional changes observed in the structure of the eyes. Therefore, all this evidence suggests that ocular changes have the potential to be used as either predictive values for AD assessment or as diagnostic tools.
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