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Franks SN, Heon-Roberts R, Ryan BJ. CRISPRi: a way to integrate iPSC-derived neuronal models. Biochem Soc Trans 2024; 52:539-551. [PMID: 38526223 PMCID: PMC11088925 DOI: 10.1042/bst20230190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
The genetic landscape of neurodegenerative diseases encompasses genes affecting multiple cellular pathways which exert effects in an array of neuronal and glial cell-types. Deconvolution of the roles of genes implicated in disease and the effects of disease-associated variants remains a vital step in the understanding of neurodegeneration and the development of therapeutics. Disease modelling using patient induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) has enabled the generation of key cell-types associated with disease whilst maintaining the genomic variants that predispose to neurodegeneration. The use of CRISPR interference (CRISPRi), alongside other CRISPR-perturbations, allows the modelling of the effects of these disease-associated variants or identifying genes which modify disease phenotypes. This review summarises the current applications of CRISPRi in iPSC-derived neuronal models, such as fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS)-based screens, and discusses the future opportunities for disease modelling, identification of disease risk modifiers and target/drug discovery in neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah N.J. Franks
- Oxford Parkinson's Disease Centre and Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
- Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Rachel Heon-Roberts
- Oxford Parkinson's Disease Centre and Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
- Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Brent J. Ryan
- Oxford Parkinson's Disease Centre and Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
- Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
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2
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Marzoog BA. Transcription Factors in Brain Regeneration: A Potential Novel Therapeutic Target. Curr Drug Targets 2024; 25:46-61. [PMID: 38444255 DOI: 10.2174/0113894501279977231210170231] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Transcription factors play a crucial role in providing identity to each cell population. To maintain cell identity, it is essential to balance the expression of activator and inhibitor transcription factors. Cell plasticity and reprogramming offer great potential for future therapeutic applications, as they can regenerate damaged tissue. Specific niche factors can modify gene expression and differentiate or transdifferentiate the target cell to the required fate. Ongoing research is being carried out on the possibilities of transcription factors in regenerating neurons, with neural stem cells (NSCs) being considered the preferred cells for generating new neurons due to their epigenomic and transcriptome memory. NEUROD1/ASCL1, BRN2, MYTL1, and other transcription factors can induce direct reprogramming of somatic cells, such as fibroblasts, into neurons. However, the molecular biology of transcription factors in reprogramming and differentiation still needs to be fully understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basheer Abdullah Marzoog
- World-Class Research Center, Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare», I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
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3
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Ahmed W, Huang S, Chen L. Engineered exosomes derived from stem cells: a new brain-targeted strategy. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024; 21:91-110. [PMID: 38258509 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2024.2306877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Using engineered exosomes produced from stem cells is an experimental therapeutic approach for treating brain diseases. According to reports, preclinical research has demonstrated notable neurogenesis and angiogenesis effects using modified stem cell-derived exosomes. These biological nanoparticles have a variety of anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that make them very promising for treating nervous system disorders. AREAS COVERED This review examines different ways to enhance the delivery of modified stem cell-derived exosomes, how they infiltrate the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and how they facilitate their access to the brain. We would also like to determine whether these nanoparticles have the most significant transmission rates through BBB when targeting brain lesions. EXPERT OPINION Using engineered stem cell-derived exosomes for treating brain disorders has generated considerable attention toward clinical research and application. However, stem cell-derived exosomes lack consistency, and their mechanisms of action are uncertain. Therefore, upcoming research needs to prioritize examining the underlying mechanisms and strategies via which these nanoparticles combat neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waqas Ahmed
- Department of Neurosurgery, Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Songze Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lukui Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Corenblum MJ, McRobbie-Johnson A, Carruth E, Bernard K, Luo M, Mandarino LJ, Peterson S, Sans-Fuentes MA, Billheimer D, Maley T, Eggers ED, Madhavan L. Parallel neurodegenerative phenotypes in sporadic Parkinson's disease fibroblasts and midbrain dopamine neurons. Prog Neurobiol 2023; 229:102501. [PMID: 37451330 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2023.102501] [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: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms causing Parkinson's disease (PD) is vital to the development of much needed early diagnostics and therapeutics for this debilitating condition. Here, we report cellular and molecular alterations in skin fibroblasts of late-onset sporadic PD subjects, that were recapitulated in matched induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons, reprogrammed from the same fibroblasts. Specific changes in growth, morphology, reactive oxygen species levels, mitochondrial function, and autophagy, were seen in both the PD fibroblasts and DA neurons, as compared to their respective controls. Additionally, significant alterations in alpha synuclein expression and electrical activity were also noted in the PD DA neurons. Interestingly, although the fibroblast and neuronal phenotypes were similar to each other, they differed in their nature and scale. Furthermore, statistical analysis revealed potential novel associations between various clinical measures of the PD subjects and the different fibroblast and neuronal data. In essence, these findings encapsulate spontaneous, in-tandem, disease-related phenotypes in both sporadic PD fibroblasts and iPSC-based DA neurons, from the same patient, and generates an innovative model to investigate PD mechanisms with a view towards rational disease stratification and precision treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Corenblum
- Department of Neurology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - A McRobbie-Johnson
- Physiological Sciences Graduate Program, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - E Carruth
- Physiology Undergraduate Program, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - K Bernard
- Physiological Sciences Graduate Program, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - M Luo
- Department of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - L J Mandarino
- Department of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - S Peterson
- Statistical Consulting Lab, BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - M A Sans-Fuentes
- Statistical Consulting Lab, BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - D Billheimer
- Statistical Consulting Lab, BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - T Maley
- Physiological Sciences Graduate Program, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - E D Eggers
- Departments of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - L Madhavan
- Department of Neurology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States; Evelyn F McKnight Brain Institute and BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States.
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Wang F, Li R, Zhang L, Nie X, Wang L, Chen L. Cell Transdifferentiation: A Challenging Strategy with Great Potential. Cell Reprogram 2023; 25:154-161. [PMID: 37471050 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2023.0015] [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: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
With the discovery and development of somatic cell nuclear transfer, cell fusion, and induced pluripotent stem cells, cell transdifferentiation research has presented unique advantages and stimulated a heated discussion worldwide. Cell transdifferentiation is a phenomenon by which a cell changes its lineage and acquires the phenotype of other cell types when exposed to certain conditions. Indeed, many adult stem cells and differentiated cells were reported to change their phenotype and transform into other lineages. This article reviews the differentiation of stem cells and classification of transdifferentiation, as well as the advantages, challenges, and prospects of cell transdifferentiation. This review discusses new research directions and the main challenges in the use of transdifferentiation in human cells and molecular replacement therapy. Overall, such knowledge is expected to provide a deep understanding of cell fate and regulation, which can change through differentiation, dedifferentiation, and transdifferentiation, with multiple applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuping Wang
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou China
- School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Runting Li
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou China
| | - Limeng Zhang
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou China
| | - Xiaoning Nie
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou China
| | - Linqing Wang
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou China
| | - Longxin Chen
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou China
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Wan Y, Ding Y. Strategies and mechanisms of neuronal reprogramming. Brain Res Bull 2023; 199:110661. [PMID: 37149266 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.110661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic injury and neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) are difficult to treat due to the poorly regenerative nature of neurons. Engrafting neural stem cells into the CNS is a classic approach for neuroregeneration. Despite great advances, stem cell therapy still faces the challenges of overcoming immunorejection and achieving functional integration. Neuronal reprogramming, a recent innovation, converts endogenous non-neuronal cells (e.g., glial cells) into mature neurons in the adult mammalian CNS. In this review, we summarize the progress of neuronal reprogramming research, mainly focusing on strategies and mechanisms of reprogramming. Furthermore, we highlight the advantages of neuronal reprogramming and outline related challenges. Although the significant development has been made in this field, several findings are controversial. Even so, neuronal reprogramming, especially in vivo reprogramming, is expected to become an effective treatment for CNS neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yan Ding
- Department of Histology and Embryology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Wang H, Huber CC, Li XP. Mesenchymal and Neural Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes in Treating Alzheimer's Disease. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:253. [PMID: 36829747 PMCID: PMC9952071 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10020253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
As the most common form of dementia and a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, Alzheimer's disease (AD) affects over 10% world population with age 65 and older. The disease is neuropathologically associated with progressive loss of neurons and synapses in specific brain regions, deposition of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier (BBB) breakdown, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative stress. Despite the intensive effort, there is still no cure for the disorder. Stem cell-derived exosomes hold great promise in treating various diseases, including AD, as they contain a variety of anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant components. Moreover, stem cell-derived exosomes also promote neurogenesis and angiogenesis and can repair damaged BBB. In this review, we will first outline the major neuropathological features associated with AD; subsequently, a discussion of stem cells, stem cell-secreted exosomes, and the major exosome isolation methods will follow. We will then summarize the recent data involving the use of mesenchymal stem cell- or neural stem cell-derived exosomes in treating AD. Finally, we will briefly discuss the challenges, perspectives, and clinical trials using stem cell-derived exosomes for AD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongmin Wang
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences and Center for Brain and Behavior Research, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
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Corenblum MJ, McRobbie-Johnson A, Carruth E, Bernard K, Luo M, Mandarino LJ, Peterson S, Billheimer D, Maley T, Eggers ED, Madhavan L. Parallel Neurodegenerative Phenotypes in Sporadic Parkinson's Disease Fibroblasts and Midbrain Dopamine Neurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.10.527867. [PMID: 36798207 PMCID: PMC9934693 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.10.527867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms causing Parkinson's disease (PD) is vital to the development of much needed early diagnostics and therapeutics for this debilitating condition. Here, we report cellular and molecular alterations in skin fibroblasts of late-onset sporadic PD subjects, that were recapitulated in matched induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons, reprogrammed from the same fibroblasts. Specific changes in growth, morphology, reactive oxygen species levels, mitochondrial function, and autophagy, were seen in both the PD fibroblasts and DA neurons, as compared to their respective controls. Additionally, significant alterations in alpha synuclein expression and electrical activity were also noted in the PD DA neurons. Interestingly, although the fibroblast and neuronal phenotypes were similar to each other, they also differed in their nature and scale. Furthermore, statistical analysis revealed novel associations between various clinical measures of the PD subjects and the different fibroblast and neuronal data. In essence, these findings encapsulate spontaneous, in-tandem, disease-related phenotypes in both sporadic PD fibroblasts and iPSC-based DA neurons, from the same patient, and generates an innovative model to investigate PD mechanisms with a view towards rational disease stratification and precision treatments.
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