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Iram F, Shahid M, Ansari J, Ashraf GM, Hassan MI, Islam A. Navigating the Maze of Alzheimer's disease by exploring BACE1: Discovery, current scenario, and future prospects. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 98:102342. [PMID: 38762102 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102342] [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: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic neurological condition that has become a leading cause of cognitive decline in elder individuals. Hardly any effective medication has been developed to halt the progression of AD due to the disease's complexity. Several theories have been put forward to clarify the mechanisms underlying AD etiology. The identification of amyloid plaques as a hallmark of AD has sparked the development of numerous drugs targeting the players involved in the amyloidogenic pathway, such as the β-site of amyloid precursor protein cleavage enzyme 1 (BACE1) blockers. Over the last ten years, preclinical and early experimental research has led several pharmaceutical companies to prioritize producing BACE1 inhibitors. Despite all these efforts, earlier discovered inhibitors were discontinued in consideration of another second-generation small molecules and recent BACE1 antagonists failed in the final stages of clinical trials because of the complications associated either with toxicity or effectiveness. In addition to discussing the difficulties associated with development of BACE1 inhibitors, this review aims to provide an overview of BACE1 and offer perspectives on the causes behind the failure of five recent BACE1 inhibitors, that would be beneficial for choosing effective treatment approaches in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faiza Iram
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Mohammad Shahid
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jaoud Ansari
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Ghulam Md Ashraf
- University of Sharjah, College of Health Sciences, and Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Md Imtaiyaz Hassan
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Asimul Islam
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India.
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2
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Gialama D, Vadukul DM, Thrush RJ, Radford SE, Aprile FA. A Potent Sybody Selectively Inhibits α-Synuclein Amyloid Formation by Binding to the P1 Region. J Med Chem 2024. [PMID: 38842931 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Increasing research efforts focus on exploiting antibodies to inhibit the amyloid formation of neurodegenerative proteins. Nevertheless, it is challenging to discover antibodies that inhibit this process in a specific manner. Using ribosome display, we screened for synthetic single-domain antibodies, i.e., sybodies, of the P1 region of α-synuclein (residues 36-42), a protein that forms amyloid in Parkinson's disease and multiple-system atrophy. Hits were assessed for direct binding to a P1 peptide and the inhibition of amyloid formation. We discovered a sybody, named αSP1, that inhibits amyloid formation of α-synuclein at substoichiometric concentrations in a specific manner, even within highly crowded heterogeneous mixtures. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer-based binding assays and seeding experiments with and without αSP1 further demonstrate the importance of the P1 region for both primary and secondary nucleation mechanisms of amyloid assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitra Gialama
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London W12 0BZ, U.K
| | - Devkee M Vadukul
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London W12 0BZ, U.K
| | - Rebecca J Thrush
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London W12 0BZ, U.K
- Institute of Chemical Biology, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London W12 0BZ, U.K
| | - Sheena E Radford
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K
| | - Francesco A Aprile
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London W12 0BZ, U.K
- Institute of Chemical Biology, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, London W12 0BZ, U.K
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3
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Sharma M, Tanwar AK, Purohit PK, Pal P, Kumar D, Vaidya S, Prajapati SK, Kumar A, Dhama N, Kumar S, Gupta SK. Regulatory roles of microRNAs in modulating mitochondrial dynamics, amyloid beta fibrillation, microglial activation, and cholinergic signaling: Implications for alzheimer's disease pathogenesis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 161:105685. [PMID: 38670299 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105685] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) remains a formidable challenge due to its complex pathology, notably involving mitochondrial dysfunction and dysregulated microRNA (miRNA) signaling. This study delves into the underexplored realm of miRNAs' impact on mitochondrial dynamics and their interplay with amyloid-beta (Aβ) aggregation and tau pathology in AD. Addressing identified gaps, our research utilizes advanced molecular techniques and AD models, alongside patient miRNA profiles, to uncover miRNAs pivotal in mitochondrial regulation. We illuminate novel miRNAs influencing mitochondrial dynamics, Aβ, and tau, offering insights into their mechanistic roles in AD progression. Our findings not only enhance understanding of AD's molecular underpinnings but also spotlight miRNAs as promising therapeutic targets. By elucidating miRNAs' roles in mitochondrial dysfunction and their interactions with hallmark AD pathologies, our work proposes innovative strategies for AD therapy, aiming to mitigate disease progression through targeted miRNA modulation. This contribution marks a significant step toward novel AD treatments, emphasizing the potential of miRNAs in addressing this complex disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Ankur Kumar Tanwar
- Department of Pharmacy, Meerut Institute of Engineering and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | | | - Pankaj Pal
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Rajasthan, India.
| | - Devendra Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, NMIMS School of Pharmacy and Management, SVKM's Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), Shirpur Campus, Dhule, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sandeep Vaidya
- CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | | | - Aadesh Kumar
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Nidhi Dhama
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sokindra Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sukesh Kumar Gupta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences (OVAS), School of Medicine, Wayne State University, USA.
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Raghav D, Shukla S, Jadiya P. Mitochondrial calcium signaling in non-neuronal cells: Implications for Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167169. [PMID: 38631408 PMCID: PMC11111334 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167169] [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: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysregulation is pivotal in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. Calcium governs vital mitochondrial processes impacting energy conversion, oxidative stress, and cell death signaling. Disruptions in mitochondrial calcium (mCa2+) handling induce calcium overload and trigger the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore, ensuing energy deprivation and resulting in AD-related neuronal cell death. However, the role of mCa2+ in non-neuronal cells (microglia, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, endothelial cells, and pericytes) remains elusive. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of mitochondrial heterogeneity and calcium signaling, offering insights into specific differences among various brain cell types in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darpan Raghav
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Section of Molecular Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Shatakshi Shukla
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Section of Molecular Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Pooja Jadiya
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Section of Molecular Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA.
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Azargoonjahromi A. Immunotherapy in Alzheimer's disease: focusing on the efficacy of gantenerumab on amyloid-β clearance and cognitive decline. J Pharm Pharmacol 2024:rgae066. [PMID: 38767981 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgae066] [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: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Gantenerumab, a human monoclonal antibody (mAb), has been thought of as a potential agent to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD) by specifically targeting regions of the amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide sequence. Aβ protein accumulation in the brain leads to amyloid plaques, causing neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, neuronal damage, and neurotransmitter dysfunction, thereby causing cognitive decline in AD. Gantenerumab involves disrupting Aβ aggregation and promoting the breakdown of larger Aβ aggregates into smaller fragments, which facilitates the action of Aβ-degrading enzymes in the brain, thus slowing down the progression of AD. Moreover, Gantenerumab acts as an opsonin, coating Aβ plaques and enhancing their recognition by immune cells, which, combined with its ability to improve the activity of microglia, makes it an intriguing candidate for promoting Aβ plaque clearance. Indeed, the multifaceted effects of Gantenerumab, including Aβ disaggregation, enhanced immune recognition, and improved microglia activity, may position it as a promising therapeutic approach for AD. Of note, reports suggest that Gantenerumab, albeit its capacity to reduce or eliminate Aβ, has not demonstrated effectiveness in reducing cognitive decline. This review, after providing an overview of immunotherapy approaches that target Aβ in AD, explores the efficacy of Gantenerumab in reducing Aβ levels and cognitive decline.
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Song T, Wang Y, Silverglate BD, Grossberg GT. Pharmacokinetic evaluation of donanemab for the treatment of Alzheimer's. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38758223 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2024.2357637] [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: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Donanemab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that significantly reduces cerebral amyloid plaques in Alzheimer's Disease (AD). It can delay disease progression and cognitive decline, making it one of the most promising disease-modifying treatments in the current treatment landscape. AREAS COVERED This paper covers the current literature available on pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, safety, and tolerability of donanemab. Publications from PubMed and Google were reviewed. A summary of regulatory approvals and current clinical data is also provided. EXPERT OPINION/COMMENTARY Donanemab as a therapy for AD has more effective disease-modifying effects compared to lecanemab. Donanemab appears generally well-tolerated; however, it may have higher rates of severe side effects, such as amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA), that could lead to death. Guidelines for frequency of MRI monitoring for ARIA/safety are pending but will be integral to determining its use. Despite some limitations, donanemab is expected to receive FDA approval, giving clinicians access to another disease-modifying drug. Overall, more data is needed about donanemab, especially relating to safety, efficacy, cost, and integration with other treatments, but its development signifies progress in AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Song
- Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Yunfei Wang
- Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - George T Grossberg
- Department of Psychiatry, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Chen XQ, Becker A, Albay R, Nguyen PD, Karachentsev D, Roberts AJ, Rynearson KD, Tanzi RE, Mobley WC. γ-Secretase Modulator BPN15606 Reduced Aβ42 and Aβ40 and Countered Alzheimer-Related Pathologies in a Mouse Model of Down Syndrome. Ann Neurol 2024. [PMID: 38747498 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Due to increased gene dose for the amyloid precursor protein (APP), elderly adults with Down syndrome (DS) are at a markedly increased risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD), known as DS-AD. How the increased APP gene dose acts and which APP products are responsible for DS-AD is not well understood, thus limiting strategies to target pathogenesis. As one approach to address this question, we used a novel class of γ-secretase modulators that promote γ-site cleavages by the γ-secretase complex, resulting in lower levels of the Aβ42 and Aβ40 peptides. METHODS Ts65Dn mice, which serve as a model of DS, were treated via oral gavage with 10 mg/kg/weekday of BPN15606 (a potent and novel pyridazine-containing γ-secretase modulators). Treatment started at 3 months-of-age and lasted for 4 months. RESULTS Demonstrating successful target engagement, treatment with BPN15606 significantly decreased levels of Aβ40 and Aβ42 in the cortex and hippocampus; it had no effect on full-length APP or its C-terminal fragments in either 2 N or Ts65Dn mice. Importantly, the levels of total amyloid-β were not impacted, pointing to BPN15606-mediated enhancement of processivity of γ-secretase. Additionally, BPN15606 rescued hyperactivation of Rab5, a protein responsible for regulating endosome function, and normalized neurotrophin signaling deficits. BPN15606 treatment also normalized the levels of synaptic proteins and tau phosphorylation, while reducing astrocytosis and microgliosis, and countering cognitive deficits. INTERPRETATION Our findings point to the involvement of increased levels of Aβ42 and/or Aβ40 in contributing to several molecular and cognitive traits associated with DS-AD. They speak to increased dosage of the APP gene acting through heightened levels of Aβ42 and/or Aβ40 as supporting pathogenesis. These findings further the interest in the potential use of γ-secretase modulators for treating and possibly preventing AD in individuals with DS. ANN NEUROL 2024.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu-Qiao Chen
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Ann Becker
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Ricardo Albay
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Phuong D Nguyen
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Dmitry Karachentsev
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Amanda J Roberts
- Animal Models Core Facility, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Kevin D Rynearson
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Rudolph E Tanzi
- Genetics and Aging Research Unit, McCance Center for Brain Health, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - William C Mobley
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Flaherty R, Sui YV, Masurkar AV, Betensky RA, Rusinek H, Lazar M. Diffusion imaging markers of accelerated aging of the lower cingulum in subjective cognitive decline. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1360273. [PMID: 38784911 PMCID: PMC11111894 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1360273] [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: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Alzheimer's Disease (AD) typically starts in the medial temporal lobe, then develops into a neurodegenerative cascade which spreads to other brain regions. People with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) are more likely to develop dementia, especially in the presence of amyloid pathology. Thus, we were interested in the white matter microstructure of the medial temporal lobe in SCD, specifically the lower cingulum bundle that leads into the hippocampus. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) has been shown to differentiate SCD participants who will progress to mild cognitive impairment from those who will not. However, the biology underlying these DTI metrics is unclear, and results in the medial temporal lobe have been inconsistent. Methods To better characterize the microstructure of this region, we applied DTI to cognitively normal participants in the Cam-CAN database over the age of 55 with cognitive testing and diffusion MRI available (N = 325, 127 SCD). Diffusion MRI was processed to generate regional and voxel-wise diffusion tensor values in bilateral lower cingulum white matter, while T1-weighted MRI was processed to generate regional volume and cortical thickness in the medial temporal lobe white matter, entorhinal cortex, temporal pole, and hippocampus. Results SCD participants had thinner cortex in bilateral entorhinal cortex and right temporal pole. No between-group differences were noted for any of the microstructural metrics of the lower cingulum. However, correlations with delayed story recall were significant for all diffusion microstructure metrics in the right lower cingulum in SCD, but not in controls, with a significant interaction effect. Additionally, the SCD group showed an accelerated aging effect in bilateral lower cingulum with MD, AxD, and RD. Discussion The diffusion profiles observed in both interaction effects are suggestive of a mixed neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative pathology. Left entorhinal cortical thinning correlated with decreased FA and increased RD, suggestive of demyelination. However, right entorhinal cortical thinning also correlated with increased AxD, suggestive of a mixed pathology. This may reflect combined pathologies implicated in early AD. DTI was more sensitive than cortical thickness to the associations between SCD, memory, and age. The combined effects of mixed pathology may increase the sensitivity of DTI metrics to variations with age and cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryn Flaherty
- Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- Vilcek Institute of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Yu Veronica Sui
- Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Arjun V. Masurkar
- Department of Neurology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Rebecca A. Betensky
- Department of Biostatistics, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, United States
| | - Henry Rusinek
- Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mariana Lazar
- Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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Li J, Haj Ebrahimi A, Ali AB. Advances in Therapeutics to Alleviate Cognitive Decline and Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5169. [PMID: 38791206 PMCID: PMC11121252 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105169] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Dementia exists as a 'progressive clinical syndrome of deteriorating mental function significant enough to interfere with activities of daily living', with the most prevalent type of dementia being Alzheimer's disease (AD), accounting for about 80% of diagnosed cases. AD is associated with an increased risk of comorbidity with other clinical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) including, agitation, anxiety, and depression as well as increased mortality in late life. For example, up to 70% of patients diagnosed with AD are affected by anxiety. As aging is the major risk factor for AD, this represents a huge global burden in ageing populations. Over the last 10 years, significant efforts have been made to recognize the complexity of AD and understand the aetiology and pathophysiology of the disease as well as biomarkers for early detection. Yet, earlier treatment options, including acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and glutamate receptor regulators, have been limited as they work by targeting the symptoms, with only the more recent FDA-approved drugs being designed to target amyloid-β protein with the aim of slowing down the progression of the disease. However, these drugs may only help temporarily, cannot stop or reverse the disease, and do not act by reducing NPS associated with AD. The first-line treatment options for the management of NPS are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors/selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs/SNRIs) targeting the monoaminergic system; however, they are not rational drug choices for the management of anxiety disorders since the GABAergic system has a prominent role in their development. Considering the overall treatment failures and side effects of currently available medication, there is an unmet clinical need for rationally designed therapies for anxiety disorders associated with AD. In this review, we summarize the current status of the therapy of AD and aim to highlight novel angles for future drug therapy in our ongoing efforts to alleviate the cognitive deficits and NPS associated with this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Afia B. Ali
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK; (J.L.); (A.H.E.)
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Barresi E, Baglini E, Poggetti V, Castagnoli J, Giorgini D, Salerno S, Taliani S, Da Settimo F. Indole-Based Compounds in the Development of Anti-Neurodegenerative Agents. Molecules 2024; 29:2127. [PMID: 38731618 PMCID: PMC11085553 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29092127] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurodegeneration is a gradual decay process leading to the depletion of neurons in both the central and peripheral nervous systems, ultimately resulting in cognitive dysfunctions and the deterioration of brain functions, alongside a decline in motor skills and behavioral capabilities. Neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) impose a substantial socio-economic strain on society, aggravated by the advancing age of the world population and the absence of effective remedies, predicting a negative future. In this context, the urgency of discovering viable therapies is critical and, despite significant efforts by medicinal chemists in developing potential drug candidates and exploring various small molecules as therapeutics, regrettably, a truly effective treatment is yet to be found. Nitrogen heterocyclic compounds, and particularly those containing the indole nucleus, which has emerged as privileged scaffold, have attracted particular attention for a variety of pharmacological applications. This review analyzes the rational design strategy adopted by different research groups for the development of anti-neurodegenerative indole-based compounds which have the potential to modulate various molecular targets involved in NDs, with reference to the most recent advances between 2018 and 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Barresi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.B.); (V.P.); (J.C.); (F.D.S.)
| | - Emma Baglini
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council of Italy, CNR Research Area, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Valeria Poggetti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.B.); (V.P.); (J.C.); (F.D.S.)
| | - Jacopo Castagnoli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.B.); (V.P.); (J.C.); (F.D.S.)
| | - Doralice Giorgini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, Fisciano, 84084 Salerno, Italy;
| | - Silvia Salerno
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.B.); (V.P.); (J.C.); (F.D.S.)
| | - Sabrina Taliani
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.B.); (V.P.); (J.C.); (F.D.S.)
| | - Federico Da Settimo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (E.B.); (V.P.); (J.C.); (F.D.S.)
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Yuan D, Zhou Z, Song M, Zhang Y, Zhang Y, Ren P, Chen Z, Fu Y. Role of GABA B receptors in cognition and EEG activity in aged APP and PS1 transgenic mice. Neurochem Int 2024; 175:105718. [PMID: 38490487 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2024.105718] [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: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in the elderly. Recent evidence suggests that gamma-aminobutyric acid B (GABAB) receptor-mediated inhibition is a major contributor to AD pathobiology, and GABAB receptors have been hypothesized to be a potential target for AD treatment. The aim of this study is to determine how GABAB regulation alters cognitive function and brain activity in an AD mouse model. Early, middle and late stage (8-23 months) amyloid precursor protein (APP) and presenilin 1 (PS1) transgenic mice were used for the study. The GABAB agonist baclofen (1 and 2.5 mg/kg, i. p.) and the antagonist phaclofen (0.5 mg/kg, i. p.) were used. Primarily, we found that GABAB activation was able to improve spatial and/or working memory performance in early and late stage AD animals. In addition, GABAB activation and inhibition could regulate global and local EEG oscillations in AD animals, with activation mainly regulating low-frequency activity (delta-theta bands) and inhibition mainly regulating mid- and high-frequency activity (alpha-gamma bands), although the regulated magnitude at some frequencies was reduced in AD. The cognitive improvements in AD animals may be explained by the reduced EEG activity in the theta frequency band (2-4 Hz). This study provides evidence for a potential therapeutic effect of baclofen in the elderly AD brain and for GABAB receptor-mediated inhibition as a potential therapeutic target for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Yuan
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science & Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Zheng Zhou
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science & Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Meihui Song
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science & Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Yunfan Zhang
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science & Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Yunbin Zhang
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science & Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Ping Ren
- Department of Geriatric Psychiatry, Shenzhen Mental Health Center, Shenzhen Kangning Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518020, China
| | - Zhuangfei Chen
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science & Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Yu Fu
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science & Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China.
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Babygirija R, Sonsalla MM, Mill J, James I, Han JH, Green CL, Calubag MF, Wade G, Tobon A, Michael J, Trautman MM, Matoska R, Yeh CY, Grunow I, Pak HH, Rigby MJ, Baldwin DA, Niemi NM, Denu JM, Puglielli L, Simcox J, Lamming DW. Protein restriction slows the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease in mice. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-3342413. [PMID: 37790423 PMCID: PMC10543316 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3342413/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Dietary protein is a critical regulator of metabolic health and aging. Low protein diets are associated with healthy aging in humans, and many independent groups of researchers have shown that dietary protein restriction (PR) extends the lifespan and healthspan of mice. Here, we examined the effect of PR on metabolic health and the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in the 3xTg mouse model of AD. We found that PR has metabolic benefits for 3xTg mice and non-transgenic controls of both sexes, promoting leanness and glycemic control in 3xTg mice and rescuing the glucose intolerance of 3xTg females. We found that PR induces sex-specific alterations in circulating metabolites and in the brain metabolome and lipidome, downregulating sphingolipid subclasses including ceramides, glucosylceramides, and sphingomyelins in 3xTg females. Consumption of a PR diet starting at 6 months of age reduced AD pathology in conjunction with reduced mTORC1 activity, increased autophagy, and had cognitive benefits for 3xTg mice. Finally, PR improved the survival of 3xTg mice. Our results demonstrate that PR slows the progression of AD at molecular and pathological levels, preserves cognition in this mouse model of AD, and suggests that PR or pharmaceutical interventions that mimic the effects of this diet may hold promise as a treatment for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reji Babygirija
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Michelle M. Sonsalla
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jericha Mill
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Isabella James
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Integrated Program in Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Jessica H. Han
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Cara L. Green
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Mariah F. Calubag
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Gina Wade
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Integrated Program in Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Anna Tobon
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
| | - John Michael
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Michaela M. Trautman
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
- Interdepartmental Graduate Program in Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Ryan Matoska
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Chung-Yang Yeh
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Isaac Grunow
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Heidi H. Pak
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
- Interdepartmental Graduate Program in Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Michael J. Rigby
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- Neuroscience Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Dominique A. Baldwin
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Natalie M. Niemi
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - John M. Denu
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Interdepartmental Graduate Program in Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Luigi Puglielli
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Judith Simcox
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Integrated Program in Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Interdepartmental Graduate Program in Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Dudley W. Lamming
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Interdepartmental Graduate Program in Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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Yu S, Guo F, Luo Y, Zhang X, Wang C, Liu Y, Zhang H. Electropositive Citric Acid-Polyethyleneimine Carbon Dots Carrying the PINK1 Gene Regulate ATP-Related Metabolic Dysfunction in APP/PS1-N2a Cells. Molecules 2024; 29:1907. [PMID: 38731398 PMCID: PMC11085363 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29091907] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by β-amyloid (Aβ) peptide accumulation and mitochondrial dysfunction during the early stage of disease. PINK1 regulates the balance between mitochondrial homeostasis and bioenergy supply and demand via the PINK1/Parkin pathway, Na+/Ca2+ exchange, and other pathways. (2) Methods: In this study, we synthesized positively charged carbon dots (CA-PEI CDs) using citric acid (CA) and polyethyleneimine (PEI) and used them as vectors to express PINK1 genes in the APP/PS1-N2a cell line to determine mitochondrial function, electron transport chain (ETC) activity, and ATP-related metabolomics. (3) Results: Our findings showed that the CA-PEI CDs exhibit the characteristics of photoluminescence, low toxicity, and concentrated DNA. They are ideal biological carriers for gene delivery. PINK1 overexpression significantly increased the mitochondrial membrane potential in APP/PS1-N2a cells and reduced reactive-oxygen-species generation and Aβ1-40 and Aβ1-42 levels. An increase in the activity of NADH ubiquinone oxidoreductase (complex I, CI) and cytochrome C oxidase (complex IV, CIV) induces the oxidative phosphorylation of mitochondria, increasing ATP generation. (4) Conclusions: These findings indicate that the PINK gene can alleviate AD by increasing bioenergetic metabolism, reducing Aβ1-40 and Aβ1-42, and increasing ATP production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Yu
- Key Laboratory of Brain Science and Health Translational Medicine Research Center in Tropical Environment of Hainan Province, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (S.Y.); (F.G.); (Y.L.); (X.Z.)
| | - Feng Guo
- Key Laboratory of Brain Science and Health Translational Medicine Research Center in Tropical Environment of Hainan Province, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (S.Y.); (F.G.); (Y.L.); (X.Z.)
| | - Yuzhen Luo
- Key Laboratory of Brain Science and Health Translational Medicine Research Center in Tropical Environment of Hainan Province, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (S.Y.); (F.G.); (Y.L.); (X.Z.)
| | - Xingfang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Brain Science and Health Translational Medicine Research Center in Tropical Environment of Hainan Province, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China; (S.Y.); (F.G.); (Y.L.); (X.Z.)
| | - Chenyu Wang
- Clinical Medical College, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, China;
| | - Yiheng Liu
- Affiliated Haikou Hospital of Xiangya Medical College, Central South University, Haikou 571199, China;
| | - Haiying Zhang
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
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14
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Stanciu GD, Ababei DC, Solcan C, Uritu CM, Craciun VC, Pricope CV, Szilagyi A, Tamba BI. Exploring Cannabinoids with Enhanced Binding Affinity for Targeting the Expanded Endocannabinoid System: A Promising Therapeutic Strategy for Alzheimer's Disease Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:530. [PMID: 38675490 PMCID: PMC11053678 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040530] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite decades of rigorous research and numerous clinical trials, Alzheimer's disease (AD) stands as a notable healthcare challenge of this century, with effective therapeutic solutions remaining elusive. Recently, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) has emerged as an essential therapeutic target due to its regulatory role in different physiological processes, such as neuroprotection, modulation of inflammation, and synaptic plasticity. This aligns with previous research showing that cannabinoid receptor ligands have the potential to trigger the functional structure of neuronal and brain networks, potentially impacting memory processing. Therefore, our study aims to assess the effects of prolonged, intermittent exposure (over 90 days) to JWH-133 (0.2 mg/kg) and an EU-GMP certified Cannabis sativa L. (Cannabixir® Medium Flos, 2.5 mg/kg) on recognition memory, as well as their influence on brain metabolism and modulation of the expanded endocannabinoid system in APP/PS1 mice. Chronic therapy with cannabinoid receptor ligands resulted in reduced anxiety-like behavior and partially reversed the cognitive deficits. Additionally, a reduction was observed in both the number and size of Aβ plaque deposits, along with decreased cerebral glucose metabolism, as well as a decline in the expression of mTOR and CB2 receptors. Furthermore, the study revealed enlarged astrocytes and enhanced expression of M1 mAChR in mice subjected to cannabinoid treatment. Our findings highlight the pivotal involvement of the extended endocannabinoid system in cognitive decline and pathological aspects associated with AD, presenting essential preclinical evidence to support the continued exploration and assessment of cannabinoid receptor ligands for AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Dumitrita Stanciu
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine “Prof. Ostin C. Mungiu”—CEMEX, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (G.D.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Daniela-Carmen Ababei
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine “Prof. Ostin C. Mungiu”—CEMEX, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (G.D.S.); (A.S.)
- Pharmacodynamics and Clinical Pharmacy Department, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Carmen Solcan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Cristina-Mariana Uritu
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine “Prof. Ostin C. Mungiu”—CEMEX, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (G.D.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Vlad-Constantin Craciun
- Department of Computer Science, “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University of Iasi, 700506 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Cosmin-Vasilica Pricope
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine “Prof. Ostin C. Mungiu”—CEMEX, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (G.D.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Andrei Szilagyi
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine “Prof. Ostin C. Mungiu”—CEMEX, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (G.D.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Bogdan-Ionel Tamba
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine “Prof. Ostin C. Mungiu”—CEMEX, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (G.D.S.); (A.S.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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15
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Kim H, Taslakjian B, Kim S, Tirrell MV, Guler MO. Therapeutic Peptides, Proteins and their Nanostructures for Drug Delivery and Precision Medicine. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202300831. [PMID: 38408302 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300831] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Peptide and protein nanostructures with tunable structural features, multifunctionality, biocompatibility and biomolecular recognition capacity enable development of efficient targeted drug delivery tools for precision medicine applications. In this review article, we present various techniques employed for the synthesis and self-assembly of peptides and proteins into nanostructures. We discuss design strategies utilized to enhance their stability, drug-loading capacity, and controlled release properties, in addition to the mechanisms by which peptide nanostructures interact with target cells, including receptor-mediated endocytosis and cell-penetrating capabilities. We also explore the potential of peptide and protein nanostructures for precision medicine, focusing on applications in personalized therapies and disease-specific targeting for diagnostics and therapeutics in diseases such as cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- HaRam Kim
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, 5640 S. Ellis Ave., Chicago, 60637, IL, USA
| | - Boghos Taslakjian
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, 5640 S. Ellis Ave., Chicago, 60637, IL, USA
| | - Sarah Kim
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, 5640 S. Ellis Ave., Chicago, 60637, IL, USA
| | - Matthew V Tirrell
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, 5640 S. Ellis Ave., Chicago, 60637, IL, USA
| | - Mustafa O Guler
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, 5640 S. Ellis Ave., Chicago, 60637, IL, USA
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16
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Lee S, Kovacs GG. The Irony of Iron: The Element with Diverse Influence on Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4269. [PMID: 38673855 PMCID: PMC11049980 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084269] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Iron accumulation in the brain is a common feature of many neurodegenerative diseases. Its involvement spans across the main proteinopathies involving tau, amyloid-beta, alpha-synuclein, and TDP-43. Accumulating evidence supports the contribution of iron in disease pathologies, but the delineation of its pathogenic role is yet challenged by the complex involvement of iron in multiple neurotoxicity mechanisms and evidence supporting a reciprocal influence between accumulation of iron and protein pathology. Here, we review the major proteinopathy-specific observations supporting four distinct hypotheses: (1) iron deposition is a consequence of protein pathology; (2) iron promotes protein pathology; (3) iron protects from or hinders protein pathology; and (4) deposition of iron and protein pathology contribute parallelly to pathogenesis. Iron is an essential element for physiological brain function, requiring a fine balance of its levels. Understanding of disease-related iron accumulation at a more intricate and systemic level is critical for advancements in iron chelation therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seojin Lee
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada;
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Gabor G. Kovacs
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 0S8, Canada;
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Edmond J. Safra Program in Parkinson’s Disease, Rossy Program for PSP Research and the Morton and Gloria Shulman Movement Disorders Clinic, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada
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17
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Liang C, Paclibar CG, Gonzaga NL, Sison SA, Bath HS, Biju AP, Mukherjee J. [ 125I]IPC-Lecanemab: Synthesis and Evaluation of Aβ-Plaque-Binding Antibody and Comparison with Small-Molecule [ 18F]Flotaza and [ 125I]IBETA in Postmortem Human Alzheimer's Disease. Neurol Int 2024; 16:419-431. [PMID: 38668128 PMCID: PMC11054302 DOI: 10.3390/neurolint16020031] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic antibodies for reducing Aβ plaque load in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is currently making rapid progress. The diagnostic imaging of Aβ plaque load in AD has been underway and is now used in clinical studies. Here, we report our preliminary findings on imaging a therapeutic antibody, Lecanemab, in a postmortem AD brain anterior cingulate. [125I]5-iodo-3-pyridinecarboxamido-Lecanemab ([125I]IPC-Lecanemab) was prepared by coupling N-succinimidyl-5-([125I]iodo)-3-pyridinecarboxylate with Lecanemab in modest yields. The distinct binding of [125I]IPC-Lecanemab to Aβ-rich regions in postmortem human AD brains was higher in grey matter (GM) containing Aβ plaques compared to white matter (WM) (GM/WM was 1.6). Anti-Aβ immunostaining was correlated with [125I]IPC-Lecanemab regional binding in the postmortem AD human brains. [125I]IPC-Lecanemab binding was consistent with the binding of Aβ small molecules, [18F]flotaza and [125I]IBETA, in the same subjects. [18F]Flotaza and [125I]IBETA, however, exhibited significantly higher GM/WM ratios (>20) compared to [125I]IPC-Lecanemab. Our results suggest that radiolabeled [125I]IPC-Lecanemab retains the ability to bind to Aβ in human AD and may therefore be useful as a PET imaging radiotracer when labeled as [124I]IPC-Lecanemab. The ability to directly visualize in vivo a promising therapeutic antibody for AD may be useful in treatment planning and dosing and could be complimentary to small-molecule diagnostic imaging to assess outcomes of therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jogeshwar Mukherjee
- Preclinical Imaging, Department of Radiological Sciences, University of California-Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; (C.L.); (C.G.P.); (N.L.G.); (S.A.S.); (H.S.B.); (A.P.B.)
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18
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McMillan IO, Gearing M, Wang L. Vascular Heparan Sulfate and Amyloid-β in Alzheimer's Disease Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3964. [PMID: 38612775 PMCID: PMC11012074 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073964] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disease characterized by the accumulation of extracellular amyloid-β peptides (Aβ) within the cerebral parenchyma and vasculature, which is known as cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). This study utilized confocal imaging to investigate heparan sulfate (HS) expression within the cerebrovasculature and its associations with Aβ, gender, and ApoE4 genotype in AD. Our investigation revealed elevated levels of HS in the cerebrovasculature of AD patients with severe CAA. Additionally, these patients exhibited higher HS colocalization with Aβ in the cerebrovasculature, including both endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cell compartments. Intriguingly, a reversal in the polarized expression of HS within the cerebrovasculature was detected in AD patients with severe CAA. Furthermore, male patients exhibited lower levels of both parenchymal and cerebrovascular HS. Additionally, ApoE4 carriers displayed heightened cerebrovascular Aβ expression and a tendency of elevated cerebrovascular HS levels in AD patients with severe CAA. Overall, these findings reveal potential intricate interplay between HS, Aβ, ApoE, and vascular pathology in AD, thereby underscoring the potential roles of cerebrovascular HS in CAA development and AD pathology. Further study of the underlying mechanisms may present novel therapeutic avenues for AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilayda Ozsan McMillan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33613, USA;
| | - Marla Gearing
- Department of Pathology, Center for Neurodegenerative Disease, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30307, USA;
| | - Lianchun Wang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33613, USA;
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19
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Cheslow L, Snook AE, Waldman SA. Biomarkers for Managing Neurodegenerative Diseases. Biomolecules 2024; 14:398. [PMID: 38672416 PMCID: PMC11048498 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040398] [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: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders are the leading cause of cognitive and physical disability worldwide, affecting 15% of the global population. Due to the demographics of aging, the prevalence of neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases, will double over the next two decades. Unfortunately, while available therapies provide symptomatic relief for cognitive and motor impairment, there is an urgent unmet need to develop disease-modifying therapies that slow the rate of pathological progression. In that context, biomarkers could identify at-risk and prodromal patients, monitor disease progression, track responses to therapy, and parse the causality of molecular events to identify novel targets for further clinical investigation. Thus, identifying biomarkers that discriminate between diseases and reflect specific stages of pathology would catalyze the discovery and development of therapeutic targets. This review will describe the prevalence, known mechanisms, ongoing or recently concluded therapeutic clinical trials, and biomarkers of three of the most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Parkinson's disease (PD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Cheslow
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; (L.C.); (A.E.S.)
- Department of Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Adam E. Snook
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; (L.C.); (A.E.S.)
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Scott A. Waldman
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; (L.C.); (A.E.S.)
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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20
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Verma H, Kaur S, Kaur S, Gangwar P, Dhiman M, Mantha AK. Role of Cytoskeletal Elements in Regulation of Synaptic Functions: Implications Toward Alzheimer's Disease and Phytochemicals-Based Interventions. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04053-3. [PMID: 38491338 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04053-3] [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: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), a multifactorial disease, is characterized by the accumulation of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques. AD is triggered via several factors like alteration in cytoskeletal proteins, a mutation in presenilin 1 (PSEN1), presenilin 2 (PSEN2), amyloid precursor protein (APP), and post-translational modifications (PTMs) in the cytoskeletal elements. Owing to the major structural and functional role of cytoskeletal elements, like the organization of axon initial segmentation, dendritic spines, synaptic regulation, and delivery of cargo at the synapse; modulation of these elements plays an important role in AD pathogenesis; like Tau is a microtubule-associated protein that stabilizes the microtubules, and it also causes inhibition of nucleo-cytoplasmic transportation by disrupting the integrity of nuclear pore complex. One of the major cytoskeletal elements, actin and its dynamics, regulate the dendritic spine structure and functions; impairments have been documented towards learning and memory defects. The second major constituent of these cytoskeletal elements, microtubules, are necessary for the delivery of the cargo, like ion channels and receptors at the synaptic membranes, whereas actin-binding protein, i.e., Cofilin's activation form rod-like structures, is involved in the formation of paired helical filaments (PHFs) observed in AD. Also, the glial cells rely on their cytoskeleton to maintain synaptic functionality. Thus, making cytoskeletal elements and their regulation in synaptic structure and function as an important aspect to be focused for better management and targeting AD pathology. This review advocates exploring phytochemicals and Ayurvedic plant extracts against AD by elucidating their neuroprotective mechanisms involving cytoskeletal modulation and enhancing synaptic plasticity. However, challenges include their limited bioavailability due to the poor solubility and the limited potential to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), emphasizing the need for targeted strategies to improve therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harkomal Verma
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Village Ghudda, VPO - Ghudda, Bathinda, 151 401, Punjab, India
| | - Sharanjot Kaur
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Village Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Sukhchain Kaur
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Village Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Prabhakar Gangwar
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Village Ghudda, VPO - Ghudda, Bathinda, 151 401, Punjab, India
| | - Monisha Dhiman
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Village Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Anil Kumar Mantha
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Village Ghudda, VPO - Ghudda, Bathinda, 151 401, Punjab, India.
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21
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Memari E, Khan D, Alkins R, Helfield B. Focused ultrasound-assisted delivery of immunomodulating agents in brain cancer. J Control Release 2024; 367:283-299. [PMID: 38266715 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.01.034] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Focused ultrasound (FUS) combined with intravascularly circulating microbubbles can transiently increase the permeability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to enable targeted therapeutic delivery to the brain, the clinical testing of which is currently underway in both adult and pediatric patients. Aside from traditional cancer drugs, this technique is being extended to promote the delivery of immunomodulating therapeutics to the brain, including antibodies, immune cells, and cytokines. In this manner, FUS approaches are being explored as a tool to improve and amplify the effectiveness of immunotherapy for both primary and metastatic brain cancer, a particularly challenging solid tumor to treat. Here, we present an overview of the latest groundbreaking research in FUS-assisted delivery of immunomodulating agents to the brain in pre-clinical models of brain cancer, and place it within the context of the current immunotherapy approaches. We follow this up with a discussion on new developments and emerging strategies for this rapidly evolving approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elahe Memari
- Department of Physics, Concordia University, Montreal H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - Dure Khan
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Ryan Alkins
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada; Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Brandon Helfield
- Department of Physics, Concordia University, Montreal H4B 1R6, Canada; Department of Biology, Concordia University, Montreal H4B 1R6, Canada.
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22
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Smith B, Ownby RL. Disease-Modifying Treatments and Their Future in Alzheimer's Disease Management. Cureus 2024; 16:e56105. [PMID: 38618323 PMCID: PMC11014642 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.56105] [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: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory impairment, a loss of cholinergic neurons, and cognitive decline that insidiously progresses to dementia. The pathoetiology of AD is complex, as genetic predisposition, age, inflammation, oxidative stress, and dysregulated proteostasis all contribute to its development and progression. The histological hallmarks of AD are the formation and accumulation of amyloid-β plaques and interfibrillar tau tangles within the central nervous system. These histological hallmarks trigger neuroinflammation and disrupt the physiological structure and functioning of neurons, leading to cognitive dysfunction. Most treatments currently available for AD focus only on symptomatic relief. Disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) that target the biology of the disease in hopes of slowing or reversing disease progression are desperately needed. This narrative review investigates novel DMTs and their therapeutic targets that are either in phase three of development or have been recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The target areas of some of these novel DMTs consist of combatting amyloid or tau accumulation, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and dysregulated proteostasis, metabolism, or circadian rhythm. Neuroprotection and neuroplasticity promotion were also key target areas. DMT therapeutic target diversity may permit improved therapeutic responses in certain subpopulations of AD, particularly if the therapeutic target of the DMT being administered aligns with the subpopulation's most prominent pathological findings. Clinicians should be cognizant of how these novel drugs differ in therapeutic targets, as this knowledge may potentially enhance the level of care they can provide to AD patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blake Smith
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Davie, USA
| | - Raymond L Ownby
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Davie, USA
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23
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Singh B, Day CM, Abdella S, Garg S. Alzheimer's disease current therapies, novel drug delivery systems and future directions for better disease management. J Control Release 2024; 367:402-424. [PMID: 38286338 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.01.047] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), is a neurodegenerative disorder that escalates with time, exerting a significant impact on physical and mental health and leading to death. The prevalence of AD is progressively rising along with its associated economic burden and necessitates effective therapeutic approaches in the near future. This review paper aims to offer an insightful overview of disease pathogenesis, current FDA-approved drugs, and drugs in different clinical phases. It also explores innovative formulations and drug delivery strategies, focusing on nanocarriers and long-acting medications (LAMs) to enhance treatment efficacy and patient adherence. The review also emphasizes preclinical evidence related to nanocarriers and their potential to improve drug bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics parameters, while also highlighting their ability to minimize systemic side effects. By providing a comprehensive analysis, this review furnishes valuable insights into different pathophysiological mechanisms for future drug development. It aims to inform the development of treatment strategies and innovative formulation approaches for delivering existing molecules in Alzheimer's disease, ultimately striving to improve patient compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baljinder Singh
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Candace M Day
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Sadikalmahdi Abdella
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Sanjay Garg
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia.
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24
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Bon L, Banaś A, Dias I, Melo-Marques I, Cardoso SM, Chaves S, Santos MA. New Multitarget Rivastigmine-Indole Hybrids as Potential Drug Candidates for Alzheimer's Disease. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:281. [PMID: 38399339 PMCID: PMC10892719 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16020281] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia with no cure so far, probably due to the complexity of this multifactorial disease with diverse processes associated with its origin and progress. Several neuropathological hallmarks have been identified that encourage the search for new multitarget drugs. Therefore, following a multitarget approach, nine rivastigmine-indole (RIV-IND) hybrids (5a1-3, 5b1-3, 5c1-3) were designed, synthesized and evaluated for their multiple biological properties and free radical scavenging activity, as potential multitarget anti-AD drugs. The molecular docking studies of these hybrids on the active center of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) suggest their capacity to act as dual enzyme inhibitors with probable greater disease-modifying impact relative to AChE-selective FDA-approved drugs. Compounds 5a3 (IC50 = 10.9 µM) and 5c3 (IC50 = 26.8 µM) revealed higher AChE inhibition than the parent RIV drug. Radical scavenging assays demonstrated that all the hybrids containing a hydroxyl substituent in the IND moiety (5a2-3, 5b2-3, 5c2-3) have good antioxidant activity (EC50 7.8-20.7 µM). The most effective inhibitors of Aβ42 self-aggregation are 5a3, 5b3 and 5c3 (47.8-55.5%), and compounds 5b2 and 5c2 can prevent the toxicity induced by Aβ1-42 to cells. The in silico evaluation of the drug-likeness of the hybrids also showed that all the compounds seem to have potential oral availability. Overall, within this class of RIV-IND hybrids, 5a3 and 5c3 appear as lead compounds for anti-AD drug candidates, deserving further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo Bon
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais 1, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal; (L.B.); (A.B.); (I.D.)
| | - Angelika Banaś
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais 1, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal; (L.B.); (A.B.); (I.D.)
| | - Inês Dias
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais 1, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal; (L.B.); (A.B.); (I.D.)
| | - Inês Melo-Marques
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (I.M.-M.); (S.M.C.)
| | - Sandra M. Cardoso
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; (I.M.-M.); (S.M.C.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sílvia Chaves
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais 1, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal; (L.B.); (A.B.); (I.D.)
| | - M. Amélia Santos
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais 1, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal; (L.B.); (A.B.); (I.D.)
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25
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Logsdon AF, Foresi B, Hu SJ, Quah E, Meuret CJ, Le JP, Hendrickson AS, Redford IK, Kumar A, Phan BA, Doan TP, Noonan C, Hendricks NE, Wheeler JM, Kraemer BC, Alonge KM. Perineuronal net deglycosylation associates with tauopathy-induced gliosis and neurodegeneration. J Neurochem 2024. [PMID: 38317026 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.16067] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by clinical symptoms of memory and cognitive deficiencies. Postmortem evaluation of AD brain tissue shows proteinopathy that closely associate with the progression of this dementing disorder, including the accumulation of extracellular beta amyloid (Aβ) and intracellular hyperphosphorylated tau (pTau) with neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). Current therapies targeting Aβ have limited clinical efficacy and life-threatening side effects and highlight the need for alternative treatments targeting pTau and other pathophysiologic mechanisms driving AD pathogenesis. The brain's extracellular matrices (ECM), particularly perineuronal nets (PNNs), play a crucial role in brain functioning and neurocircuit stability, and reorganization of these unique PNN matrices has been associated with the progression of AD and accumulation of pTau in humans. We hypothesize that AD-associated changes in PNNs may in part be driven by the accumulation of pTau within the brain. In this work, we investigated whether the presence of pTau influenced PNN structural integrity and PNN chondroitin sulfate-glycosaminoglycan (CS-GAG) compositional changes in two transgenic mouse models expressing tauopathy-related AD pathology, PS19 (P301S) and Tau4RTg2652 mice. We show that PS19 mice exhibit an age-dependent loss of hippocampal PNN CS-GAGs, but not the underlying aggrecan core protein structures, in association with pTau accumulation, gliosis, and neurodegeneration. The loss of PNN CS-GAGs were linked to shifts in CS-GAG sulfation patterns to favor the neuroregenerative isomer, 2S6S-CS. Conversely, Tau4RTg2652 mice exhibit stable PNN structures and normal CS-GAG isomer composition despite robust pTau accumulation, suggesting a critical interaction between neuronal PNN glycan integrity and neighboring glial cell activation. Overall, our findings provide insights into the complex relationship between PNN CS-GAGs, pTau pathology, gliosis, and neurodegeneration in mouse models of tauopathy, and offer new therapeutic insights and targets for AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aric F Logsdon
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Brian Foresi
- College of Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio, USA
| | - Shannon J Hu
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Emily Quah
- University of Washington Medicine Diabetes Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Cristiana J Meuret
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jaden P Le
- University of Washington Medicine Diabetes Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Aarun S Hendrickson
- University of Washington Medicine Diabetes Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Nutrition, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ingrid K Redford
- University of Washington Medicine Diabetes Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Asmit Kumar
- University of Washington Medicine Diabetes Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Bao Anh Phan
- University of Washington Medicine Diabetes Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Tammy P Doan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Cassidy Noonan
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Nzinga E Hendricks
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jeanna M Wheeler
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Brian C Kraemer
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kimberly M Alonge
- University of Washington Medicine Diabetes Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Nutrition, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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26
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Kee TR, Khan SA, Neidhart MB, Masters BM, Zhao VK, Kim YK, McGill Percy KC, Woo JAA. The multifaceted functions of β-arrestins and their therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative diseases. Exp Mol Med 2024; 56:129-141. [PMID: 38212557 PMCID: PMC10834518 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01144-4] [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: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Arrestins are multifunctional proteins that regulate G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) desensitization, signaling, and internalization. The arrestin family consists of four subtypes: visual arrestin1, β-arrestin1, β-arrestin2, and visual arrestin-4. Recent studies have revealed the multifunctional roles of β-arrestins beyond GPCR signaling, including scaffolding and adapter functions, and physically interacting with non-GPCR receptors. Increasing evidence suggests that β-arrestins are involved in the pathogenesis of a variety of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and Parkinson's disease (PD). β-arrestins physically interact with γ-secretase, leading to increased production and accumulation of amyloid-beta in AD. Furthermore, β-arrestin oligomers inhibit the autophagy cargo receptor p62/SQSTM1, resulting in tau accumulation and aggregation in FTD. In PD, β-arrestins are upregulated in postmortem brain tissue and an MPTP model, and the β2AR regulates SNCA gene expression. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of β-arrestin1 and β-arrestin2, and describe their physiological functions and roles in neurodegenerative diseases. The multifaceted roles of β-arrestins and their involvement in neurodegenerative diseases suggest that they may serve as promising therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa R Kee
- Department of Pathology, CWRU School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, USF Health College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, 33613, USA
| | - Sophia A Khan
- Department of Pathology, CWRU School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Maya B Neidhart
- Department of Pathology, CWRU School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Brianna M Masters
- Department of Pathology, CWRU School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Victoria K Zhao
- Department of Pathology, CWRU School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Yenna K Kim
- Department of Pathology, CWRU School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | | | - Jung-A A Woo
- Department of Pathology, CWRU School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
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27
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Pyka P, Haberek W, Więcek M, Szymanska E, Ali W, Cios A, Jastrzębska-Więsek M, Satała G, Podlewska S, Di Giacomo S, Di Sotto A, Garbo S, Karcz T, Lambona C, Marocco F, Latacz G, Sudoł-Tałaj S, Mordyl B, Głuch-Lutwin M, Siwek A, Czarnota-Łydka K, Gogola D, Olejarz-Maciej A, Wilczyńska-Zawal N, Honkisz-Orzechowska E, Starek M, Dąbrowska M, Kucwaj-Brysz K, Fioravanti R, Nasim MJ, Hittinger M, Partyka A, Wesołowska A, Battistelli C, Zwergel C, Handzlik J. First-in-Class Selenium-Containing Potent Serotonin Receptor 5-HT 6 Agents with a Beneficial Neuroprotective Profile against Alzheimer's Disease. J Med Chem 2024; 67:1580-1610. [PMID: 38190615 PMCID: PMC10823479 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02148] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) has a complex and not-fully-understood etiology. Recently, the serotonin receptor 5-HT6 emerged as a promising target for AD treatment; thus, here a new series of 5-HT6R ligands with a 1,3,5-triazine core and selenoether linkers was explored. Among them, the 2-naphthyl derivatives exhibited strong 5-HT6R affinity and selectivity over 5-HT1AR (13-15), 5-HT7R (14 and 15), and 5-HT2AR (13). Compound 15 displayed high selectivity for 5-HT6R over other central nervous system receptors and exhibited low risk of cardio-, hepato-, and nephrotoxicity and no mutagenicity, indicating its "drug-like" potential. Compound 15 also demonstrated neuroprotection against rotenone-induced neurotoxicity as well as antioxidant and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)-like activity and regulated antioxidant and pro-inflammatory genes and NRF2 nuclear translocation. In rats, 15 showed satisfying pharmacokinetics, penetrated the blood-brain barrier, reversed MK-801-induced memory impairment, and exhibited anxiolytic-like properties. 15's neuroprotective and procognitive-like effects, stronger than those of the approved drug donepezil, may pave the way for the use of selenotriazines to inhibit both causes and symptoms in AD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patryk Pyka
- Department
of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
- Division
of Bioorganic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Saarland University, Campus B 2.1, D-66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
- Doctoral
School of Medical and Health Sciences, Jagiellonian
University Medical College, św. Łazarza 15, 31-530 Kraków, Poland
| | - Wawrzyniec Haberek
- Department
of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
- Division
of Bioorganic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Saarland University, Campus B 2.1, D-66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
- Doctoral
School of Medical and Health Sciences, Jagiellonian
University Medical College, św. Łazarza 15, 31-530 Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Więcek
- Department
of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Ewa Szymanska
- Department
of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Wesam Ali
- Department
of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
- Division
of Bioorganic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Saarland University, Campus B 2.1, D-66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Agnieszka Cios
- Department
of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Magdalena Jastrzębska-Więsek
- Department
of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Satała
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Sabina Podlewska
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Silvia Di Giacomo
- Department
of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Italian
National Institute of Health (ISS), Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Di Sotto
- Department
of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Sabrina Garbo
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur Italia, Fondazione Cenci-Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Tadeusz Karcz
- Department
of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Chiara Lambona
- Department
of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza
University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Marocco
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur Italia, Fondazione Cenci-Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Gniewomir Latacz
- Department
of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Sylwia Sudoł-Tałaj
- Department
of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
- Doctoral
School of Medical and Health Sciences, Jagiellonian
University Medical College, św. Łazarza 15, 31-530 Kraków, Poland
| | - Barbara Mordyl
- Department
of Pharmacobiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Monika Głuch-Lutwin
- Department
of Pharmacobiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Agata Siwek
- Department
of Pharmacobiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Kinga Czarnota-Łydka
- Department
of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
- Doctoral
School of Medical and Health Sciences, Jagiellonian
University Medical College, św. Łazarza 15, 31-530 Kraków, Poland
| | - Dawid Gogola
- Department
of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
- Doctoral
School of Medical and Health Sciences, Jagiellonian
University Medical College, św. Łazarza 15, 31-530 Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Olejarz-Maciej
- Department
of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Natalia Wilczyńska-Zawal
- Department
of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Ewelina Honkisz-Orzechowska
- Department
of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Starek
- Department
of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Jagiellonian
University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Monika Dąbrowska
- Department
of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Jagiellonian
University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Kucwaj-Brysz
- Department
of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Rossella Fioravanti
- Department
of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza
University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Muhammad Jawad Nasim
- Division
of Bioorganic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Saarland University, Campus B 2.1, D-66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Marius Hittinger
- Department
of Drug Discovery, Pharmbiotec gGmbH, Nußkopf 39, 66578 Schiffweiler, Germany
- Department
of Drug Delivery, Pharmbiotec gGmbH, Nußkopf 39, 66578 Schiffweiler, Germany
| | - Anna Partyka
- Department
of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna Wesołowska
- Department
of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
| | - Cecilia Battistelli
- Department
of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur Italia, Fondazione Cenci-Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Clemens Zwergel
- Division
of Bioorganic Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Saarland University, Campus B 2.1, D-66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
- Department
of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza
University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Department
of Drug Discovery, Pharmbiotec gGmbH, Nußkopf 39, 66578 Schiffweiler, Germany
| | - Jadwiga Handzlik
- Department
of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
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28
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Stojanovic M, Mikula C, John S, Kiselica A. Clinical importance in Alzheimer's disease: effects of anchor agreement and disease severity. Aging Clin Exp Res 2024; 36:5. [PMID: 38265507 PMCID: PMC10808396 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-023-02643-0] [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: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Methods of evaluating clinically meaningful decline are critical in research on Alzheimer's disease. A common method of quantifying clinically meaningful change is to calculate an anchor-based minimal clinically important difference (MCID) score. In this approach, individuals who report a meaningful change serve as the "anchors", and the mean level of change for this group serves as the MCID. In research on Alzheimer's disease, there are several possible anchors, including patients, knowledgeable observers (e.g., a family member), and clinicians. The goal of this study was to examine the extent to which agreement among anchors impacts MCID estimation and whether this relationship is moderated by cognitive severity status. METHODS Analyses were completed on a longitudinal sample of 2247 adults, aged 50-103, from the Uniform Data Set. Outcome measures included the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Clinical Dementia Rating-Sum of Boxes, and Functional Activities Questionnaire. RESULTS For all of the outcomes, the MCID estimate was significantly higher when meaningful decline was endorsed by all of the anchors compared to when there was disagreement among the anchors. In addition, the MCID estimate was higher with increasing severity of cognitive impairment. Finally, cognitive severity status moderated the influence of agreement among anchors on MCID estimation; as disease severity increased, anchor agreement demonstrated less influence on the MCID. CONCLUSIONS MCID estimates based on one anchor may underestimate meaningful change, and researchers should consider the viewpoints of multiple anchors in constructing MCIDs, particularly in the early stages of cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Stojanovic
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, Box 1125, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
| | - Cynthia Mikula
- Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Samantha John
- Department of Brain Health, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada, 89154, USA
| | - Andrew Kiselica
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
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El Menuawy A, Brüning T, Eiriz I, Hähnel U, Marthe F, Möhle L, Górska AM, Santos-García I, Wangensteen H, Wu J, Pahnke J. Apolar Extracts of St. John's Wort Alleviate the Effects of β-Amyloid Toxicity in Early Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1301. [PMID: 38279301 PMCID: PMC10816143 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021301] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypericum perforatum (St. John's wort) has been described to be beneficial for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Different extractions have demonstrated efficiency in mice and humans, esp. extracts with a low hypericin and hyperforin content to reduce side effects such as phototoxicity. In order to systematically elucidate the therapeutic effects of H. perforatum extracts with different polarities, APP-transgenic mice were treated with a total ethanol extract (TE), a polar extract obtained from TE, and an apolar supercritical CO2 (scCO2) extract. The scCO2 extract was formulated with silicon dioxide (SiO2) for better oral application. APP-transgenic mice were treated with several extracts (total, polar, apolar) at different concentrations. We established an early treatment paradigm from the age of 40 days until the age of 80 days, starting before the onset of cerebral β-amyloid (Aβ) deposition at 45 days of age. Their effects on intracerebral soluble and insoluble Aβ were analyzed using biochemical analyses. Our study confirms that the scCO2H. perforatum formulation shows better biological activity against Aβ-related pathological effects than the TE or polar extracts. Clinically, the treatment resulted in a dose-dependent improvement in food intake with augmentation of the body weight, and, biochemically, it resulted in a significant reduction in both soluble and insoluble Aβ (-27% and -25%, respectively). We therefore recommend apolar H. perforatum extracts for the early oral treatment of patients with mild cognitive impairment or early AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed El Menuawy
- Translational Neurodegeneration Research and Neuropathology Lab/Section of Neuropathology Research, Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty/KlinMED, University of Oslo (UiO) and Oslo University Hospital (OUS), Sognsvannsveien 20, 0372 Oslo, Norway
- Institute for Breeding Research on Horticultural Crops, Julius Kühn Institute (JKI)—Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Erwin-Baur Straße 27, 06484 Quedlinburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Brüning
- Translational Neurodegeneration Research and Neuropathology Lab/Section of Neuropathology Research, Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty/KlinMED, University of Oslo (UiO) and Oslo University Hospital (OUS), Sognsvannsveien 20, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Iván Eiriz
- Translational Neurodegeneration Research and Neuropathology Lab/Section of Neuropathology Research, Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty/KlinMED, University of Oslo (UiO) and Oslo University Hospital (OUS), Sognsvannsveien 20, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Urs Hähnel
- Institute for Breeding Research on Horticultural Crops, Julius Kühn Institute (JKI)—Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Erwin-Baur Straße 27, 06484 Quedlinburg, Germany
| | - Frank Marthe
- Institute for Breeding Research on Horticultural Crops, Julius Kühn Institute (JKI)—Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Erwin-Baur Straße 27, 06484 Quedlinburg, Germany
| | - Luisa Möhle
- Translational Neurodegeneration Research and Neuropathology Lab/Section of Neuropathology Research, Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty/KlinMED, University of Oslo (UiO) and Oslo University Hospital (OUS), Sognsvannsveien 20, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Anna Maria Górska
- Translational Neurodegeneration Research and Neuropathology Lab/Section of Neuropathology Research, Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty/KlinMED, University of Oslo (UiO) and Oslo University Hospital (OUS), Sognsvannsveien 20, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Irene Santos-García
- Translational Neurodegeneration Research and Neuropathology Lab/Section of Neuropathology Research, Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty/KlinMED, University of Oslo (UiO) and Oslo University Hospital (OUS), Sognsvannsveien 20, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Helle Wangensteen
- Section for Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, University of Oslo (UiO), Sem Sælands vei 3, 0371 Oslo, Norway
| | - Jingyun Wu
- Translational Neurodegeneration Research and Neuropathology Lab/Section of Neuropathology Research, Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty/KlinMED, University of Oslo (UiO) and Oslo University Hospital (OUS), Sognsvannsveien 20, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Jens Pahnke
- Translational Neurodegeneration Research and Neuropathology Lab/Section of Neuropathology Research, Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty/KlinMED, University of Oslo (UiO) and Oslo University Hospital (OUS), Sognsvannsveien 20, 0372 Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine (INUM) and Lübeck Institute of Dermatology (LIED), University of Lübeck (UzL) and University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Latvia, Jelgavas iela 3, 1004 Rīga, Latvia
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Neuroscience, Biochemistry and Biophysics, The Georg S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
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Asghar S, Mushtaq N, Ahmed A, Anwar L, Munawar R, Akhtar S. Potential of Tryptamine Derivatives as Multi-Target Directed Ligands for Alzheimer's Disease: AChE, MAO-B, and COX-2 as Molecular Targets. Molecules 2024; 29:490. [PMID: 38276568 PMCID: PMC10820890 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29020490] [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: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Extensive research has been dedicated to develop compounds that can target multiple aspects of Alzheimer's disease (AD) treatment due to a growing understanding of AD's complex multifaceted nature and various interconnected pathological pathways. In the present study, a series of biological assays were performed to evaluate the potential of the tryptamine analogues synthesized earlier in our lab as multi-target-directed ligands (MTDLs) for AD. To assess the inhibitory effects of the compounds, various in vitro assays were employed. Three compounds, SR42, SR25, and SR10, displayed significant AChE inhibitory activity, with IC50 values of 0.70 µM, 0.17 µM, and 1.00 µM, respectively. These values superseded the standard drug donepezil (1.96 µM). In the MAO-B inhibition assay, SR42 (IC50 = 43.21 µM) demonstrated superior inhibitory effects as compared to tryptamine and other derivatives. Moreover, SR22 (84.08%), SR24 (79.30%), and SR42 (75.16%) exhibited notable percent inhibition against the COX-2 enzyme at a tested concentration of 100 µM. To gain insights into their binding mode and to validate the biological results, molecular docking studies were conducted. Overall, the results suggest that SR42, a 4,5 nitro-benzoyl derivative of tryptamine, exhibited significant potential as a MTDL and warrants further investigation for the development of anti-Alzheimer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saira Asghar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hamdard University, Karachi 74600, Pakistan;
| | - Nousheen Mushtaq
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan;
| | - Ahsaan Ahmed
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi 75510, Pakistan;
| | - Laila Anwar
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hamdard University, Karachi 74600, Pakistan;
| | - Rabya Munawar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Dow College of Pharmacy, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi 74200, Pakistan;
| | - Shamim Akhtar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hamdard University, Karachi 74600, Pakistan;
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31
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Appleman ML, Thomas JL, Weiss AR, Nilaver BI, Cervera-Juanes R, Kohama SG, Urbanski HF. Effect of hormone replacement therapy on amyloid beta (Aβ) plaque density in the rhesus macaque amygdala. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 15:1326747. [PMID: 38274989 PMCID: PMC10808750 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1326747] [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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Amyloid beta (Aβ) plaque density was examined in the amygdala of rhesus macaques, to elucidate the influence of age, diet and hormonal environment. Methods Luminex technology was used to measure cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) concentrations of Aβ40 and Aβ42 across three decades, while immunohistochemistry was used to examine Aβ plaque density in the amygdala. Results Aβ40 was found to be the predominant isoform of Aβ in the CSF, but neither Aβ40 or Aβ42 concentrations showed an age-related change, and the ratio of Aβ42 to Aβ40 showed only a marginal increase. Significantly fewer Aβ plaques were detected in the amygdala of old ovariectomized animals if they received estradiol HRT (p < 0.001); similar results were obtained regardless of whether they had been maintained on a regular monkey chow for ∼48 months or on a high-fat, high-sugar, Western-style diet for ∼30 months. Conclusion The results demonstrate that HRT involving estrogen can reduce Aβ plaque load in a cognitive brain region of aged non-human primates. The results from this translational animal model may therefore have clinical relevance to the treatment of AD in post-menopausal women, whether used alone, or as a supplement to current pharmacological and monoclonal antibody-based interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Luisa Appleman
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Jeremy L. Thomas
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Alison R. Weiss
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Benjamin I. Nilaver
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Rita Cervera-Juanes
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC, United States
| | - Steven G. Kohama
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Henryk F. Urbanski
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
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Sharma A, Ewald CY. Clearance of extracellular human amyloid-β aggregates in C. elegans by nutraceutical and pharmaceutical interventions. MICROPUBLICATION BIOLOGY 2024; 2024:10.17912/micropub.biology.000907. [PMID: 38287930 PMCID: PMC10823790 DOI: 10.17912/micropub.biology.000907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Numerous anti-amyloid therapies have seen recent clinical development and approval, such as the monoclonal antibodies aducanumab and lecanemab. However, in Alzheimer's disease patients, amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques are found embedded in the extracellular matrix and surrounded by collagens, which might hinder these antibodies from targeting the plaques. We reasoned that various different nutraceutical and pharmaceutical agents might induce collagen and extracellular matrix turnover and removal of these collagen-embedded amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques. To address this idea, here, we used a transgenic C. elegans strain, LSD2104 , expressing fluorescent human Aβ 1-42 as an in-vivo model for secreted amyloid aggregation in the extracellular matrix. We performed a screen of various nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals along with different combinations, and we found that quercetin 350 µM and rifampicin 75 µM successfully cleared the extracellular amyloid plaque burden compared to the 0.2% DMSO control group, with a combination of the two agents producing the maximum effect compared to either drug alone. These results may implicate the exploration of combination therapeutics of nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals in the clearance of amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arastu Sharma
- Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute of Translational Medicine, 8603 Schwerzenbach-Zürich, Switzerland
- Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Collin Y Ewald
- Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute of Translational Medicine, 8603 Schwerzenbach-Zürich, Switzerland
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Dhapola R, Beura SK, Sharma P, Singh SK, HariKrishnaReddy D. Oxidative stress in Alzheimer's disease: current knowledge of signaling pathways and therapeutics. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:48. [PMID: 38165499 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-09021-z] [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: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease's pathophysiology is still a conundrum. Growing number of evidences have elucidated the involvement of oxidative stress in the pathology of AD rendering it a major target for therapeutic development. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by altered mitochondrial function, dysregulated electron transport chain and other sources elevate aggregated Aβ and neurofibrillary tangles which further stimulating the production of ROS. Oxidative stress induced damage to lipids, proteins and DNA result in neuronal death which leads to AD. In addition, oxidative stress induces apoptosis that is triggered by the modulation of ERK1/2 and Nrf2 pathway followed by increased GSK-3β expression and decreased PP2A activity. Oxidative stress exaggerates disease condition by interfering with various signaling pathways like RCAN1, CREB/ERK, Nrf2, PP2A, NFκB and PI3K/Akt. Studies have reported the role of TNF-α in oxidative stress stimulation that has been regulated by drugs like etanercept increasing the level of anti-oxidants. Other drugs like pramipexole, memantine, carvedilol, and melatonin have been reported to activate CREB/RCAN1 and Nrf2 pathways. In line with this, epigallocatechin gallate and genistein also target Nrf2 and CREB pathway leading to activation of downstream pathways like ARE and Keap1 which ameliorate oxidative stress condition. Donepezil and resveratrol reduce oxidative stress and activate AMPK pathway along with PP2A activation thus promoting tau dephosphorylation and neuronal survival. This study describes in detail the role of oxidative stress in AD, major signaling pathways involving oxidative stress induced AD and drugs under development targeting these pathways which may aid in therapeutic advances for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishika Dhapola
- Advanced Pharmacology and Neuroscience Laboratoty, Department of Pharmacology, School of Health Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India
| | - Samir K Beura
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic and Applied Science, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India
| | - Prajjwal Sharma
- Advanced Pharmacology and Neuroscience Laboratoty, Department of Pharmacology, School of Health Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India
| | - Sunil K Singh
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic and Applied Science, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India.
| | - Dibbanti HariKrishnaReddy
- Advanced Pharmacology and Neuroscience Laboratoty, Department of Pharmacology, School of Health Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India.
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Nystuen KL, McNamee SM, Akula M, Holton KM, DeAngelis MM, Haider NB. Alzheimer's Disease: Models and Molecular Mechanisms Informing Disease and Treatments. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:45. [PMID: 38247923 PMCID: PMC10813760 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11010045] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disease resulting in progressive loss of memory, language and motor abilities caused by cortical and hippocampal degeneration. This review captures the landscape of understanding of AD pathology, diagnostics, and current therapies. Two major mechanisms direct AD pathology: (1) accumulation of amyloid β (Aβ) plaque and (2) tau-derived neurofibrillary tangles (NFT). The most common variants in the Aβ pathway in APP, PSEN1, and PSEN2 are largely responsible for early-onset AD (EOAD), while MAPT, APOE, TREM2 and ABCA7 have a modifying effect on late-onset AD (LOAD). More recent studies implicate chaperone proteins and Aβ degrading proteins in AD. Several tests, such as cognitive function, brain imaging, and cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) and blood tests, are used for AD diagnosis. Additionally, several biomarkers seem to have a unique AD specific combination of expression and could potentially be used in improved, less invasive diagnostics. In addition to genetic perturbations, environmental influences, such as altered gut microbiome signatures, affect AD. Effective AD treatments have been challenging to develop. Currently, there are several FDA approved drugs (cholinesterase inhibitors, Aß-targeting antibodies and an NMDA antagonist) that could mitigate AD rate of decline and symptoms of distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaden L. Nystuen
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Shannon M. McNamee
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Monica Akula
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Kristina M. Holton
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Margaret M. DeAngelis
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Neena B. Haider
- Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Oba R, Ujike N, Ono Y, Okano T, Murakami T. Label-free autofluorescence and hyperspectral imaging of cerebral amyloid-β lesions in aged squirrel monkeys. J Vet Diagn Invest 2024; 36:41-45. [PMID: 37830746 PMCID: PMC10734585 DOI: 10.1177/10406387231204876] [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] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The observation of amyloid-β (Aβ) lesions using autofluorescence in transgenic mice and human Alzheimer disease patients has been reported frequently. However, no reports verify the autofluorescence of spontaneous Aβ amyloidosis in animals, to our knowledge. We validated the autofluorescence of Aβ lesions in spontaneous squirrel monkey cases under label-free conditions; lesions had intense blue-white autofluorescence in fluorescence microscopy using excitation light at 400-440 nm. Thioflavin S staining and immunohistochemistry of the same specimens revealed that this blue-white autofluorescence was derived from Aβ lesions. Hyperspectral analysis of these lesions revealed a characteristic spectrum with bimodal peaks at 440 and 460 nm, as reported for Aβ lesions in mice. Principal component analysis using hyperspectral data specifically separated the Aβ lesions from other autofluorescent substances, such as lipofuscin. A non-labeled and mechanistic detection of Aβ lesions by hyperspectral imaging could provide valuable insights for developing early diagnostic techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryohei Oba
- Laboratory of Veterinary Toxicology, Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoki Ujike
- Laboratory of Veterinary Toxicology, Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Ono
- Advanced Technology Center, Corporate R&D Headquarters, Konica Minolta, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Okano
- Advanced Technology Center, Corporate R&D Headquarters, Konica Minolta, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Murakami
- Laboratory of Veterinary Toxicology, Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
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Raju RP, Cai L, Tyagi A, Pugazhenthi S. Interactions of Cellular Energetic Gene Clusters in the Alzheimer's Mouse Brain. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:476-486. [PMID: 37632678 PMCID: PMC10843700 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03551-0] [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: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in the aging population. The pathological characteristics include extracellular senile plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles. In addition, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation contribute to AD pathogenesis. In this study, we sought to determine the crosstalk between different pathways in the brain of 5XFAD mice, a mouse model for amyloid pathology, by RNA-seq analysis. We observed significant changes in the expression of genes (1288 genes; adj p value < 0.05; log2-fold > 1 and < 1) related to pathways including oxidation-reduction, oxidative phosphorylation, innate immune response, ribosomal protein synthesis, and ubiquitin proteosome system. The most striking feature was the downregulation of genes related to oxidation-reduction process with changes in the expression of a large number of mitochondrial genes. We also observed an upregulation of several immune response genes. Gene interaction network of oxidation-reduction related genes further confirmed a tight cluster of mitochondrial genes. Furthermore, gene interaction analysis of all the 1288 genes showed at least three distinct interaction clusters, with the predominant one relating to cellular energetics. In summary, we identified 1288 genes distinctly different in the 5XFAD brain compared to the WT brain and found cellular energetics to be the most distinct gene cluster in the AD mouse brain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lun Cai
- Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Alpna Tyagi
- Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Subbiah Pugazhenthi
- Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, CO, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
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Ghosh P, Narang K, Iyer PK. Role of Amyloid Beta in Neurodegeneration and Therapeutic Strategies for Neuroprotection. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2761:337-354. [PMID: 38427249 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3662-6_25] [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: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The gradual loss of neurons' structure and function in the central nervous system is known as neurodegeneration. It is a defining feature of several incapacitating illnesses, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease. The buildup of amyloid beta (Aβ) protein in the brain is one of the several variables linked to neurodegeneration. We shall delve into the fascinating realm of Aβ in this chapter and examine its role in the etiology of neurodegenerative illnesses. Insights into the processes through which Aβ exerts its toxicity are crucial for the creation of therapeutic approaches to treat these life-threatening diseases. Despite the presence of multiple obstacles, recent research shows promise for the development of some new anti-Aβ therapies that will help millions of people suffering from neurodegeneration. In this chapter, we discuss the role of Aβ in contributing to neurotoxicity and several anti-Aβ therapies for neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyam Ghosh
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Kavita Narang
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Parameswar Krishnan Iyer
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India.
- Center for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India.
- Jyoti and Bhupat Mehta School of Health Sciences and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, India.
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Sharma C, Mazumder A. A Comprehensive Review on Potential Molecular Drug Targets for the Management of Alzheimer's Disease. Cent Nerv Syst Agents Med Chem 2024; 24:45-56. [PMID: 38305393 DOI: 10.2174/0118715249263300231116062740] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an onset and incurable neurodegenerative disorder that has been linked to various genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Recent research has revealed several potential targets for drug development, such as the prevention of Aβ production and removal, prevention of tau hyperphosphorylation, and keeping neurons alive. Drugs that target numerous ADrelated variables have been developed, and early results are encouraging. This review provides a concise map of the different receptor signaling pathways associated with Alzheimer's Disease, as well as insight into drug design based on these pathways. It discusses the molecular mechanisms of AD pathogenesis, such as oxidative stress, aging, Aβ turnover, thiol groups, and mitochondrial activities, and their role in the disease. It also reviews the potential drug targets, in vivo active agents, and docking studies done in AD and provides prospects for future drug development. This review intends to provide more clarity on the molecular processes that occur in Alzheimer's patient's brains, which can be of use in diagnosing and preventing the condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanchal Sharma
- Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology (Pharmacy Institute), 19 Knowledge Park-II, Institutional Area, Greater Noida-201306, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Avijit Mazumder
- Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology (Pharmacy Institute), 19 Knowledge Park-II, Institutional Area, Greater Noida-201306, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Nagamatsu T, Kubota K, Watanabe T, Katsurabayashi S, Iwasaki K. Kamikihito reduces β-amyloid 25-35-induced axon damage via neurotrophic factors. J Nat Med 2024; 78:246-254. [PMID: 38010476 DOI: 10.1007/s11418-023-01761-3] [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: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The Japanese herbal medicine kamikihito (KKT) is widely used for insomnia, anorexia, anemia, and depression. Recently, the efficacy of KKT against Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been demonstrated in clinical and non-clinical studies. To address the mechanism underlying the effect of KKT on AD, we examined the effects of KKT in β-amyloid (Aβ)25-35-exposed primary cultured neurons. The effects of KKT on Aβ25-35-induced neurotoxicity were assessed by immunocytochemical assays and Sholl analysis of neurites, and the influence of KKT on neurotrophic factor (NF) gene expression was examined using RT-PCR analysis. As a result, Aβ25-35 exposure attenuated the arborization of neurites of single cultured hippocampal neurons, and KKT treatment for 3 days ameliorated the Aβ25-35-induced impairment of tau-positive axon outgrowth. This ameliorative effect of KKT was largely abolished by the Trk inhibitor K252a, and expression of NFs, nerve growth factor (Ngf), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf), neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) was significantly increased by KKT. These results indicate that KKT ameliorates axonal atrophy via NFs signaling, providing a mechanistic basis for treatment of AD with KKT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Nagamatsu
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University, 8-19-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka, 814-0180, Japan
| | - Kaori Kubota
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University, 8-19-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka, 814-0180, Japan.
| | - Takuya Watanabe
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University, 8-19-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka, 814-0180, Japan
| | - Shutaro Katsurabayashi
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University, 8-19-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka, 814-0180, Japan
| | - Katsunori Iwasaki
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University, 8-19-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka, 814-0180, Japan
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Li X, Peng X, Zoulikha M, Boafo GF, Magar KT, Ju Y, He W. Multifunctional nanoparticle-mediated combining therapy for human diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:1. [PMID: 38161204 PMCID: PMC10758001 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01668-1] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Combining existing drug therapy is essential in developing new therapeutic agents in disease prevention and treatment. In preclinical investigations, combined effect of certain known drugs has been well established in treating extensive human diseases. Attributed to synergistic effects by targeting various disease pathways and advantages, such as reduced administration dose, decreased toxicity, and alleviated drug resistance, combinatorial treatment is now being pursued by delivering therapeutic agents to combat major clinical illnesses, such as cancer, atherosclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, myocarditis, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, metabolic disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Combinatorial therapy involves combining or co-delivering two or more drugs for treating a specific disease. Nanoparticle (NP)-mediated drug delivery systems, i.e., liposomal NPs, polymeric NPs and nanocrystals, are of great interest in combinatorial therapy for a wide range of disorders due to targeted drug delivery, extended drug release, and higher drug stability to avoid rapid clearance at infected areas. This review summarizes various targets of diseases, preclinical or clinically approved drug combinations and the development of multifunctional NPs for combining therapy and emphasizes combinatorial therapeutic strategies based on drug delivery for treating severe clinical diseases. Ultimately, we discuss the challenging of developing NP-codelivery and translation and provide potential approaches to address the limitations. This review offers a comprehensive overview for recent cutting-edge and challenging in developing NP-mediated combination therapy for human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotong Li
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 2111198, PR China
| | - Xiuju Peng
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 2111198, PR China
| | - Makhloufi Zoulikha
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 2111198, PR China
| | - George Frimpong Boafo
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, PR China
| | - Kosheli Thapa Magar
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 2111198, PR China
| | - Yanmin Ju
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 2111198, PR China.
| | - Wei He
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200443, China.
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Kaur U, Reddy J, Tiwari A, Chakrabarti S, Chakrabarti SS. Lecanemab: More Questions Than Answers! Clin Drug Investig 2024; 44:1-10. [PMID: 38095822 DOI: 10.1007/s40261-023-01331-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The approval of lecanemab by the US Food and Drug Administration has been touted as a defining moment in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Lecanemab, an anti-amyloid beta monoclonal antibody, is the first Alzheimer's disease drug targeting amyloid beta that has shown statistically significant cognitive benefits in phase III trials. However, there have been many questions raised over the clinical relevance of the otherwise minimal cognitive improvements. Furthermore, its rapid approval has been mired in controversy, in addition to the reports of adverse events such as amyloid-related imaging abnormalities and several deaths of participants in the lecanemab trials. Here, we analyze the evidence supporting lecanemab as an amyloid beta therapy and also discuss the concerns raised about its efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Upinder Kaur
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Jaideep Reddy
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Ashutosh Tiwari
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Sasanka Chakrabarti
- Department of Biochemistry and Central Research Cell, Maharishi Markandeshwar (deemed to be) University, Mullana, Haryana, India
| | - Sankha Shubhra Chakrabarti
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, 221005, India.
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Cai J, Xie D, Kong F, Zhai Z, Zhu Z, Zhao Y, Xu Y, Sun T. Effect and Mechanism of Rapamycin on Cognitive Deficits in Animal Models of Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Preclinical Studies. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 99:53-84. [PMID: 38640155 DOI: 10.3233/jad-231249] [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: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Background Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common form of dementia, remains long-term and challenging to diagnose. Furthermore, there is currently no medication to completely cure AD patients. Rapamycin has been clinically demonstrated to postpone the aging process in mice and improve learning and memory abilities in animal models of AD. Therefore, rapamycin has the potential to be significant in the discovery and development of drugs for AD patients. Objective The main objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the effects and mechanisms of rapamycin on animal models of AD by examining behavioral indicators and pathological features. Methods Six databases were searched and 4,277 articles were retrieved. In conclusion, 13 studies were included according to predefined criteria. Three authors independently judged the selected literature and methodological quality. Use of subgroup analyses to explore potential mechanistic effects of rapamycin interventions: animal models of AD, specific types of transgenic animal models, dosage, and periodicity of administration. Results The results of Morris Water Maze (MWM) behavioral test showed that escape latency was shortened by 15.60 seconds with rapamycin therapy, indicating that learning ability was enhanced in AD mice; and the number of traversed platforms was increased by 1.53 times, indicating that the improved memory ability significantly corrected the memory deficits. CONCLUSIONS Rapamycin therapy reduced age-related plaque deposition by decreasing AβPP production and down-regulating β-secretase and γ-secretase activities, furthermore increased amyloid-β clearance by promoting autophagy, as well as reduced tau hyperphosphorylation by up-regulating insulin-degrading enzyme levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Cai
- School of Intelligent Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Danni Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Fanjing Kong
- School of Intelligent Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhenwei Zhai
- School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhishan Zhu
- School of Intelligent Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yanru Zhao
- School of Intelligent Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Tao Sun
- School of Intelligent Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Elghanam Y, Purja S, Kim EY. Biomarkers as Endpoints in Clinical Trials for Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 99:693-703. [PMID: 38669547 DOI: 10.3233/jad-240008] [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: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Background Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that imposes economic and societal burden. Biomarkers have played a crucial role in the recent approval of aducanumab and lecanemab as disease-modifying therapies which marked a significant milestone for the treatment of AD. The inclusion of biomarkers in AD trials facilitates precise diagnosis, monitors safety, demonstrates target engagement, and supports disease modification. Objective This study analyzed the utilization state and trends of biomarkers as endpoints in AD trials. Methods In this retrospective study, trials were collected by searching clinicaltrials.gov using the term "Alzheimer". Primary and secondary outcomes were analyzed separately for each phase. Results Among the 1,048 analyzed trials, 313 (29.87%) adopted biomarkers as primary endpoints and 364 (34.73%) as secondary endpoints, mainly in phases 1 and 2. The top three biomarkers adopted as primary endpoints in phases 1, 2, and 3 were amyloid-PET, tau-PET, and MRI. The top three biomarkers adopted as secondary endpoints, in phase 1, were cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) amyloid-β (Aβ), blood Aβ and amyloid-PET; in phase 2, they were MRI, CSF Aβ, and CSF phospho-tau; and in phase 3, they were amyloid PET, MRI, and blood Aβ. There was a statistically significant increase in the adoption of biomarkers as primary endpoints in phase 2 trials (p = 0.001) and secondary endpoints in phase 3 trials (p = 0.001). Conclusions The growing recognition of the importance of biomarkers in AD trial' design and drug development is evident by the significant steady increase in biomarkers' utilization in phases 2 and 3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yomna Elghanam
- Department of Health, Evidence-Based and Clinical Research Laboratory, Social, and Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sujata Purja
- Department of Health, Evidence-Based and Clinical Research Laboratory, Social, and Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Young Kim
- Department of Health, Evidence-Based and Clinical Research Laboratory, Social, and Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea
- The Graduate School for Pharmaceutical Industry Management, College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea
- The Department of Pharmaceutical Regulatory Sciences, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea
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Gohel D, Zhang P, Gupta AK, Li Y, Chiang CW, Li L, Hou Y, Pieper AA, Cummings J, Cheng F. Sildenafil as a Candidate Drug for Alzheimer's Disease: Real-World Patient Data Observation and Mechanistic Observations from Patient-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Neurons. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 98:643-657. [PMID: 38427489 PMCID: PMC10977448 DOI: 10.3233/jad-231391] [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: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Background Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease needing effective therapeutics urgently. Sildenafil, one of the approved phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, has been implicated as having potential effect in AD. Objective To investigate the potential therapeutic benefit of sildenafil on AD. Methods We performed real-world patient data analysis using the MarketScan® Medicare Supplemental and the Clinformatics® databases. We conducted propensity score-stratified analyses after adjusting confounding factors (i.e., sex, age, race, and comorbidities). We used both familial and sporadic AD patient induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) derived neurons to evaluate the sildenafil's mechanism-of-action. Results We showed that sildenafil usage is associated with reduced likelihood of AD across four new drug compactor cohorts, including bumetanide, furosemide, spironolactone, and nifedipine. For instance, sildenafil usage is associated with a 54% reduced incidence of AD in MarketScan® (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.46, 95% CI 0.32- 0.66) and a 30% reduced prevalence of AD in Clinformatics® (HR = 0.70, 95% CI 0.49- 1.00) compared to spironolactone. We found that sildenafil treatment reduced tau hyperphosphorylation (pTau181 and pTau205) in a dose-dependent manner in both familial and sporadic AD patient iPSC-derived neurons. RNA-sequencing data analysis of sildenafil-treated AD patient iPSC-derived neurons reveals that sildenafil specifically target AD related genes and pathobiological pathways, mechanistically supporting the beneficial effect of sildenafil in AD. Conclusions These real-world patient data validation and mechanistic observations from patient iPSC-derived neurons further suggested that sildenafil is a potential repurposable drug for AD. Yet, randomized clinical trials are warranted to validate the causal treatment effects of sildenafil in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhruv Gohel
- Genomic Medicine Institute,Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Pengyue Zhang
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Data Science, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Amit Kumar Gupta
- Genomic Medicine Institute,Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Yichen Li
- Genomic Medicine Institute,Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Chien-Wei Chiang
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Lang Li
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Yuan Hou
- Genomic Medicine Institute,Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Andrew A. Pieper
- Brain Health Medicines Center, Harrington Discovery Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Geriatric Psychiatry, GRECC, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Institute for Transformative Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Jeffrey Cummings
- Department of Brain Health, School of Integrated Health Sciences, Chambers-Grundy Center for Transformative Neuroscience, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Feixiong Cheng
- Genomic Medicine Institute,Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Genome Center, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Aljassabi A, Zieneldien T, Kim J, Regmi D, Cao C. Alzheimer's Disease Immunotherapy: Current Strategies and Future Prospects. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 98:755-772. [PMID: 38489183 DOI: 10.3233/jad-231163] [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: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an extremely complex and heterogeneous pathology influenced by many factors contributing to its onset and progression, including aging, amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques, tau fibril accumulation, inflammation, etc. Despite promising advances in drug development, there is no cure for AD. Although there have been substantial advancements in understanding the pathogenesis of AD, there have been over 200 unsuccessful clinical trials in the past decade. In recent years, immunotherapies have been at the forefront of these efforts. Immunotherapy alludes to the immunological field that strives to identify disease treatments via the enhancement, suppression, or induction of immune responses. Interestingly, immunotherapy in AD is a relatively new approach for non-infectious disease. At present, antibody therapy (passive immunotherapy) that targets anti-Aβ aimed to prevent the fibrillization of Aβ peptides and disrupt pre-existing fibrils is a predominant AD immunotherapy due to the continuous failure of active immunotherapy for AD. The most rational and safe strategies will be those targeting the toxic molecule without triggering an abnormal immune response, offering therapeutic advantages, thus making clinical trial design more efficient. This review offers a concise overview of immunotherapeutic strategies, including active and passive immunotherapy for AD. Our review encompasses approved methods and those presently under investigation in clinical trials, while elucidating the recent challenges, complications, successes, and potential treatments. Thus, immunotherapies targeting Aβ throughout the disease progression using a mutant oligomer-Aβ stimulated dendritic cell vaccine may offer a promising therapy in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Aljassabi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Taneja College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Tarek Zieneldien
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Taneja College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Janice Kim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Taneja College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Deepika Regmi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Taneja College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Chuanhai Cao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Taneja College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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Neațu M, Covaliu A, Ioniță I, Jugurt A, Davidescu EI, Popescu BO. Monoclonal Antibody Therapy in Alzheimer's Disease. Pharmaceutics 2023; 16:60. [PMID: 38258071 PMCID: PMC11154277 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010060] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative condition marked by the progressive deterioration of cognitive abilities, memory impairment, and the accumulation of abnormal proteins, specifically beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles, within the brain. Despite extensive research efforts, Alzheimer's disease remains without a cure, presenting a significant global healthcare challenge. Recently, there has been an increased focus on antibody-based treatments as a potentially effective method for dealing with Alzheimer's disease. This paper offers a comprehensive overview of the current status of research on antibody-based molecules as therapies for Alzheimer's disease. We will briefly mention their mechanisms of action, therapeutic efficacy, and safety profiles while addressing the challenges and limitations encountered during their development. We also highlight some crucial considerations in antibody-based treatment development, including patient selection criteria, dosing regimens, or safety concerns. In conclusion, antibody-based therapies present a hopeful outlook for addressing Alzheimer's disease. While challenges remain, the accumulating evidence suggests that these therapies may offer substantial promise in ameliorating or preventing the progression of this debilitating condition, thus potentially enhancing the quality of life for the millions of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Neațu
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (M.N.); (A.C.); (I.I.); (A.J.); (B.O.P.)
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Covaliu
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (M.N.); (A.C.); (I.I.); (A.J.); (B.O.P.)
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Iulia Ioniță
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (M.N.); (A.C.); (I.I.); (A.J.); (B.O.P.)
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana Jugurt
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (M.N.); (A.C.); (I.I.); (A.J.); (B.O.P.)
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Eugenia Irene Davidescu
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (M.N.); (A.C.); (I.I.); (A.J.); (B.O.P.)
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Bogdan Ovidiu Popescu
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (M.N.); (A.C.); (I.I.); (A.J.); (B.O.P.)
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurosciences and Experimental Myology, “Victor Babeș” National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
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Zhao Z, Liu Y, Ruan S, Hu Y. Current Anti-Amyloid-β Therapy for Alzheimer's Disease Treatment: From Clinical Research to Nanomedicine. Int J Nanomedicine 2023; 18:7825-7845. [PMID: 38144511 PMCID: PMC10749171 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s444115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent successive approval of anti-amyloid-β (Aβ) monoclonal antibodies as disease-modifying therapies against Alzheimer's disease (AD) has raised great confidence in the development of anti-AD therapies; however, the current therapies still face the dilemma of significant adverse reactions and limited effects. In this review, we summarized the therapeutic characteristics of the approved anti-Aβ immunotherapies and dialectically analyzed the gains and losses from clinical trials. The review further proposed the reasonable selection of animal models in preclinical studies from the perspective of different animal models of Aβ deposition and deals in-depth with the recent advances of exploring preclinical nanomedical application in Aβ targeted therapy, aiming to provide a reliable systematic summary for the development of novel anti-Aβ therapies. Collectively, this review comprehensively dissects the pioneering work of Aβ-targeted therapies and proposed perspective insight into AD-modified therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixuan Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Translational Research Institute for Neurological Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
- The Institute of Brain Science, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yun Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Translational Research Institute for Neurological Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
- The Institute of Brain Science, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shirong Ruan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Translational Research Institute for Neurological Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
- The Institute of Brain Science, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yixuan Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Translational Research Institute for Neurological Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
- The Institute of Brain Science, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241000, People’s Republic of China
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Park J, Simpson C, Patel K. Lecanemab: A Humanized Monoclonal Antibody for the Treatment of Early Alzheimer Disease. Ann Pharmacother 2023:10600280231218253. [PMID: 38095619 DOI: 10.1177/10600280231218253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review current pharmacology, pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics, safety, and efficacy of lecanemab in patients with Alzheimer disease. DATA SOURCES A literature search of PubMed (April 1, 2016-November 15, 2023) and ClinicalTrials.gov search were conducted using the following search terms: lecanemab and BAN2401. Additional articles were identified by hand from references. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION We included English-language clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, reviews, and systematic reviews evaluating lecanemab pharmacology, efficacy, or safety in humans for the management of Alzheimer disease. DATA SYNTHESIS In the Clarity AD phase III trial, lecanemab led to a decrease in brain amyloid levels and showed moderate improvement in clinical measures of cognition and function. At 18 months, lecanemab 10 mg/kg biweekly exhibited a lower least squares mean change from baseline (1.21) compared to placebo (1.66) of Clinical Dementia Rating-Sum of Boxes score, signifying a significant difference of -0.45 (95% CI, -0.67 to -0.23; P < 0.001). In a subset of 698 participants, lecanemab reduced brain amyloid burden by -59.1 Centiloids (95% CI, -62.6 to -55.6). Lecanemab demonstrated favorable differences in Alzheimer Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale 14, Alzheimer Disease Composite Score, and Alzheimer Disease Cooperative Study-Mild Cognitive Impairment-Activities of Daily Living scores. Adverse events included infusion-related reactions (26.4%) and amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (12.6%). RELEVANCE TO PATIENT CARE AND CLINICAL PRACTICE Lecanemab reduces cognitive decline but raises concerns about intravenous administration, cost, and magnetic resonance imaging needs. Ongoing trials exploring subcutaneous dosing and positron emission tomography scans may offer solutions. CONCLUSION Lecanemab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that is selective for soluble amyloid-beta (Aβ) aggregates. Lecanemab has exhibited a decrease in brain Aβ plaques and moderately less decline on clinical measures of cognitive function.
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Yu T, Xing Y, Gao Q, Wang D, Chen H, Wang H, Zhang Y. Ginkgo biloba Extract Drives Gut Flora and Microbial Metabolism Variation in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2746. [PMID: 38140087 PMCID: PMC10747232 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15122746] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disease. Numerous investigations have demonstrated that medications that regulate the "brain-gut" axis can ameliorate disease symptoms of AD. Studies have shown that Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb) is involved in intestinal metabolism to meet the goal of illness treatment. EGb is currently utilized extensively in the clinical prevention and treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. However, the regulatory effect of EGb on intestinal flora and its metabolites in AD pathology remains largely speculative. In this study, the Morris water maze test showed a significant improvement of spatial memory in the AD mouse model (APP/PS1 mice) after EGb treatment. We next confirmed the positive effects of EGb on the gut flora and metabolites of APP/PS1 mice and further showed that EGb treatment reshaped the disturbed gut microbiome, in particular by reducing the Firmicutes/Bacteroides ratio and increasing the abundance of Bacteroidetes, Uroviricota, Streptophyta, and Spirochaetes. Meanwhile, a non-targeted metabolomics analysis showed that EGb treatment significantly reversed the dysfunction of the microbial metabolic phenotype by altering Limosilactobacillus and Parvibacte, with 300 differential metabolites modulated (131 up-regulated, 169 down-regulated). Our findings highlight the significant regulatory impact of EGb on intestinal microflora and microbial metabolism in AD mice models and provide a potential therapeutic strategy for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Yu
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (T.Y.); (Q.G.)
| | - Yueyang Xing
- SPH XingLing Sci. & Tech. Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201203, China; (Y.X.); (D.W.)
| | - Qi Gao
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (T.Y.); (Q.G.)
- SPH XingLing Sci. & Tech. Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201203, China; (Y.X.); (D.W.)
| | - Dandan Wang
- SPH XingLing Sci. & Tech. Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201203, China; (Y.X.); (D.W.)
| | - Hongzhuan Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China;
| | - Hao Wang
- School of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (T.Y.); (Q.G.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Shanghai Universities Collaborative Innovation Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yongfang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Shanghai Universities Collaborative Innovation Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
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Fernández Ramírez MDC, Afrin S, Saelices L. Conformational inhibitors of protein aggregation. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2023; 83:102700. [PMID: 37717490 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2023.102700] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Amyloidoses are fatal conditions associated with the aggregation of proteins into amyloid fibrils that deposit systemically and/or locally. Possibly because the causal mechanism of protein aggregation and deposition is not fully understood, this group of diseases remains uncurable. Advances in structural biology, such as the use of nuclear magnetic resonance and cryo-electron microscopy, have enabled the study of the structures and the conformational nature of the proteins whose aggregation is associated with the underlying pathogenesis of amyloidosis. As a result, the last years of research have translated into the development of directed therapeutic strategies that target the specific conformations of precursors, fibrils, and intermediary species. Current efforts include the use of small molecules, peptides, and antibodies. This review summarizes the recent progress in developing strategies that target specific protein conformations for the treatment of amyloidoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Del Carmen Fernández Ramírez
- Center for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Biophysics, Peter O'Donnell Jr Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (UTSW), Dallas, TX, USA. https://twitter.com/FernandezR_MC
| | - Shumaila Afrin
- Center for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Biophysics, Peter O'Donnell Jr Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (UTSW), Dallas, TX, USA. https://twitter.com/Shumyla44
| | - Lorena Saelices
- Center for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Biophysics, Peter O'Donnell Jr Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (UTSW), Dallas, TX, USA.
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