Oxidative stress and regulated cell death in Parkinson's disease

Targeted mitochondrial fluorescence probe with large stokes shift for detecting viscosity changes in vivo and in ferroptosis process

We created four fluorescent sensors in our work to determine the viscosity of mitochondria. Following screening, the probe Mito-3 was chosen because in contrast to the other three probes, it had a greater fluorescence enhancement, large Stokes shift (113 nm) and had a particular response to viscosity that was unaffected by polarity or biological species. As the viscosity increased from PBS to 90 % glycerol, the fluorescence intensity of probe at 586 nm increased 17-fold. Mito-3 has strong biocompatibility and is able to track changes in cell viscosity in response to nystatin and monensin stimulation. Furthermore, the probe has been successfully applied to detect changes in viscosity caused by nystatin and monensin in zebrafish. Above all, the probe can be applied to the increase in mitochondrial viscosity that accompanies the ferroptosis process. Mito-3 has the potential to help further study the relationship between viscosity and ferroptosis.

Early B Cell Factor 3 (EBF3) attenuates Parkinson's disease through directly regulating contactin-associated protein-like 4 (CNTNAP4) transcription: An experimental study

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a gradually debilitating neurodegenerative syndrome. Here, we analyzed GSE7621 chip data obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to explore the pathogenesis of PD. Early B Cell Factor 3 (EBF3), a member of the highly evolutionarily conserved EBF-transcription factor family, is involved in neuronal development. EBF3 expression is low in the substantia nigra of patients with PD. However, whether EBF3 is implicated in dopaminergic neuron death during PD has not yet been investigated. Therefore, we aimed to reveal the potential anti-apoptotic effect and molecular mechanism of EBF3 in PD. We established a 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced PD mouse model in vivo and a 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridine (MPP+)-induced SH-SY5Y cell model in vitro. EBF3 was downregulated in the substantia nigra of PD mice and SH-SY5Y cells treated with MPP+, and the m6A methylation modification level was low. Fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) siRNA upregulated m6A methylation modification of EBF3 and extended the EBF3 mRNA half-life. Functionally, as demonstrated by the results of the open-field test, pole test and gait analysis, EBF3 overexpression ameliorated MPTP-induced behavioral disorder. Further, EBF3 overexpression suppressed neuronal apoptosis in vivo, as evidenced by decreased TUNEL+ cells, and the increased activation of caspase-3 and caspase-9. Similar results were obtained in vitro, as reflected by increased cell viability, decreased LDH activity and restored mitochondrial function, collectively protecting SH-SY5Y cells from MPP+-induced apoptosis. Mechanistically, the results of luciferase reporter, ch-IP and DNA pull-down assays confirmed that, as a transcription factor, EBF3 bound to the promoter of CNTNAP4 (a protein associated with neuronal differentiation) and directly regulated CNTNAP4 transcription. Strikingly, CNTNAP4 knockdown markedly abolished the effect of EBF3 on cell apoptosis, thus aggravating PD. In conclusion, the low level of m6A methylation modification may contribute to the low expression of EBF3 during PD. Additionally, EBF3 attenuates PD by activating CNTNAP4 transcription, suggesting that EBF3 may be a novel therapeutic target in PD.

Reactive oxygen species-scavenging nanomaterials for the prevention and treatment of age-related diseases

With increasing proportion of the elderly in the population, age-related diseases (ARD) lead to a considerable healthcare burden to society. Prevention and treatment of ARD can decrease the negative impact of aging and the burden of disease. The aging rate is closely associated with the production of high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS-mediated oxidative stress in aging triggers aging-related changes through lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and DNA oxidation. Antioxidants can control autoxidation by scavenging free radicals or inhibiting their formation, thereby reducing oxidative stress. Benefiting from significant advances in nanotechnology, a large number of nanomaterials with ROS-scavenging capabilities have been developed. ROS-scavenging nanomaterials can be divided into two categories: nanomaterials as carriers for delivering ROS-scavenging drugs, and nanomaterials themselves with ROS-scavenging activity. This study summarizes the current advances in ROS-scavenging nanomaterials for prevention and treatment of ARD, highlights the potential mechanisms of the nanomaterials used and discusses the challenges and prospects for their applications.

Knocking Down PIAS3 Reduces H2O2-induced Oxidative Stress Injury in HT22 Cells

Oxidative stress is involved in the pathological processes of many neurodegenerative diseases. Protein modification by small ubiquitin-like modifiers (SUMOs) has been implicated in oxidative stress injury. By conjugating SUMOs to their selective protein substrates, SUMO ligases play critical roles in regulating functions of proteins involved in oxidative stress injury. In this study, we screened siRNAs to knockdown the SUMO ligase PIAS3 to assess its role in H2O2-induced injury in HT22 cells. H2O2 stimulation increased total protein SUMOylation, facilitated intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) release, increased cleaved caspase-3 levels, promoted p38 and JNK activation (phosphorylation), upregulated apoptosis, and decreased cell viability. The siRNA against PIAS3 329-347 (siPIAS3-329) markedly downregulated the protein expression of PIAS3 and reversed these effects, whereas siNC (negative control) had no effect. Our findings demonstrate that PIAS3-mediated SUMOylation facilitates oxidative stress injury and p38/JNK-mediated cell apoptosis and that PIAS3 is a potential target to protect against oxidative stress injury.

NADPH and NAC synergistically inhibits chronic ocular hypertension-induced neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation through regulating p38/MAPK pathway and peroxidation

Glaucoma, the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, is characterized by neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation with retinal NAD/NADP and GSH decline. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)/NAD phosphate (NADP) and glutathione (GSH) are two redox reducers in neuronal and glial metabolism. However, therapeutic strategies targeting NAD/NADP or GSH do not exert ideal effects, and the underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood. We assessed morphological changes in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), the affected neurons in glaucoma, and Müller cells, the major glial cells in the retina, as well as the levels of phosphorylated p38 (p-p38) and Caspase-3 in glaucoma patients. We constructed a modified chronic ocular hypertensive rat model and an oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) cell model. After applying NADPH and N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a precursor to cysteine, the rate-limiting substrate in GSH biosynthesis, to cells, apoptosis, axonal damage and peroxidation were reduced in the RGCs of the NAC group and p-p38 levels were decreased in the RGCs of the NADPH group, while in stimulated Müller cells cultured individually or cocultured with RGCs, gliosis and p38/MAPK, rather than JNK/MAPK, activation were inhibited. The results were more synergistic in the rat model, where either NADPH or NAC showed crossover effects on inhibiting peroxidation and p38/MAPK pathway activation. Moreover, the combination of NADPH and NAC ameliorated RGC electrophysiological function and prevented Müller cell gliosis to the greatest extent. These data illustrated conjoined mechanisms in glaucomatous RGC injury and Müller cell gliosis and suggested that NADPH and NAC collaborate as a neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory combination treatment for glaucoma and other underlying human neurodegenerative diseases.

Neuroprotective effects of polyphyllin VI against rotenone-induced toxicity in SH-SY5Y cells

BACKGROUND

A substantial body of evidence is drawing connections between Parkinson's disease (PD) and the phenomena of oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Polyphyllin VI (PPVI), an active compound found in Rhizoma Paridis-commonly known as Chonglou (CL) in China, has been identified for its various pharmacological properties, including anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory effects.

OBJECTIVE

In the present study, an in vitro model of PD was established by treating SH-SY5Y cells with rotenone (ROT), to evaluate the potential neuroprotective effects of polyphyllin VI and its underlying mechanism.

METHODS

SH-SY5Y cells were treated with ROT to establish an in vitro model of PD. The effects of polyphyllin VI on cell viability were assessed using the resazurin assay. Cell morphology was examined using a microscope. The YO-PRO-1/PI was used to detect apoptosis. Mito-Tracker Red CMXRos, Mito-Tracker Green, and JC-1 were used to detect the effects of polyphyllin Ⅵ on mitochondrial viability, morphology, and function. Oxidative stress-related marker detection kits were used to identify the effects of polyphyllin VI on oxidative stress. Western blot analysis was employed to investigate the signaling pathways associated with neuroprotection.

RESULTS

PPVI increased ROT-induced SH-SY5Y cell viability and improved ROT-induced cellular morphological changes. PPVI ameliorated ROT-induced oxidative stress status, and attenuated mitochondrial function and morphological changes. PPVI may exert neuroprotective effects through FOXO3α/CREB1/DJ-1-related signaling pathways.

CONCLUSION

These preliminary findings suggested that PPVI possesses neuroprotective attributes in vitro, and it may be a potential candidate for PD treatment. However, extensive research is necessary to fully understand the mechanisms of PPVI and its effectiveness both in vitro and in vivo.

Functional modification of recombinant brain-derived neurotrophic factor and its protective effect against neurotoxicity

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophic protein that promotes neuronal survival, increases neurotransmitter synthesis, and has potential therapeutic effects in neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases, but its drug development has been limited by the fact that recombinant proteins of BDNF are unstable and do not penetrate the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In this study, we fused a TAT membrane-penetrating peptide with BDNF to express a recombinant protein (TBDNF), which was then PEG-modified to P-TBDNF. Protein characterization showed that P-TBDNF significantly improved the stability of the recombinant protein and possessed the ability to penetrate the BBB, and in cellular experiments, P-TBDNF prevented MPTP-induced nerve cell oxidative stress damage, apoptosis and inflammatory response, and its mechanism of action was closely related to the activation of tyrosine kinase B (TrkB) receptor and inhibition of microglia activation. In animal experiments, P-TBDNF improved motor and cognitive deficits in MPTP mice and inhibited pathological changes in Parkinson's disease (PD). In conclusion, this paper is expected to reveal the mechanism of action of P-TBDNF in inhibiting neurotoxicity, provide a new way for treating PD, and lay the foundation for the future development of recombinant P-TBDNF.

The Contribution of Type 2 Diabetes to Parkinson's Disease Aetiology

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are chronic disorders that have a significant health impact on a global scale. Epidemiological, preclinical, and clinical research underpins the assumption that insulin resistance and chronic inflammation contribute to the overlapping aetiologies of T2D and PD. This narrative review summarises the recent evidence on the contribution of T2D to the initiation and progression of PD brain pathology. It also briefly discusses the rationale and potential of alternative pharmacological interventions for PD treatment.

Role of reactive oxygen species in myelodysplastic syndromes

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) serve as typical metabolic byproducts of aerobic life and play a pivotal role in redox reactions and signal transduction pathways. Contingent upon their concentration, ROS production not only initiates or stimulates tumorigenesis but also causes oxidative stress (OS) and triggers cellular apoptosis. Mounting literature supports the view that ROS are closely interwoven with the pathogenesis of a cluster of diseases, particularly those involving cell proliferation and differentiation, such as myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and chronic/acute myeloid leukemia (CML/AML). OS caused by excessive ROS at physiological levels is likely to affect the functions of hematopoietic stem cells, such as cell growth and self-renewal, which may contribute to defective hematopoiesis. We review herein the eminent role of ROS in the hematological niche and their profound influence on the progress of MDS. We also highlight that targeting ROS is a practical and reliable tactic for MDS therapy.

Nicotine restores olfactory function by activation of prok2R/Akt/FoxO3a axis in Parkinson's disease

BACKGROUND

Olfactory dysfunction occurs frequently in Parkinson's disease (PD). In this study, we aimed to explore the potential biomarkers and underlying molecular pathways of nicotine for the treatment of olfactory dysfunction in 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced PD mice.

METHODS

MPTP was introduced into C57BL/6 male mice to generate a PD model. Regarding in vivo experiments, we performed behavioral tests to estimate the protective effects of nicotine in MPTP-induced PD mice. RNA sequencing and traditional molecular methods were used to identify molecules, pathways, and biological processes in the olfactory bulb of PD mouse models. Then, in vitro experiments were conducted to evaluate whether nicotine can activate the prok2R/Akt/FoxO3a signaling pathway in both HEK293T cell lines and primary olfactory neurons treated with 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+). Next, prok2R overexpression (prok2R+) and knockdown (prok2R-) were introduced with lentivirus, and the Akt/FoxO3a signaling pathway was further explored. Finally, the damaging effects of MPP+ were evaluated in prok2R overexpression (prok2R+) HEK293T cell lines.

RESULTS

Nicotine intervention significantly alleviated olfactory and motor dysfunctions in mice with PD. The prok2R/Akt/FoxO3a signaling pathway was activated after nicotine treatment. Consequently, apoptosis of olfactory sensory neurons was significantly reduced. Furthermore, prok2R+ and prok2R- HEK293T cell lines exhibited upregulation and downregulation of the Akt/FoxO3a signaling pathway, respectively. Additionally, prok2R+ HEK293T cells were resistant to MPP+-induced apoptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed the effectiveness and underlying mechanisms of nicotine in improving hyposmia in PD mice. These improvements were correlated with reduced apoptosis of olfactory sensory neurons via activated prok2R/Akt/FoxO3a axis. These results explained the potential protective functions of nicotine in PD patients.

The discovery of regional neurotoxicity-associated metabolic alterations induced by carbon quantum dots in brain of mice using a spatial metabolomics analysis

BACKGROUND

Recently, carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have been widely used in various fields, especially in the diagnosis and therapy of neurological disorders, due to their excellent prospects. However, the associated inevitable exposure of CQDs to the environment and the public could have serious severe consequences limiting their safe application and sustainable development.

RESULTS

In this study, we found that intranasal treatment of 5 mg/kg BW (20 µL/nose of 0.5 mg/mL) CQDs affected the distribution of multiple metabolites and associated pathways in the brain of mice through the airflow-assisted desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging (AFADESI-MSI) technique, which proved effective in discovery has proven to be significantly alerted and research into tissue-specific toxic biomarkers and molecular toxicity analysis. The neurotoxic biomarkers of CQDs identified by MSI analysis mainly contained aminos, lipids and lipid-like molecules which are involved in arginine and proline metabolism, biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, and glutamine and glutamate metabolism, etc. as well as related metabolic enzymes. The levels or expressions of these metabolites and enzymes changed by CQDs in different brain regions would induce neuroinflammation, organelle damage, oxidative stress and multiple programmed cell deaths (PCDs), leading to neurodegeneration, such as Parkinson's disease-like symptoms. This study enlightened risk assessments and interventions of QD-type or carbon-based nanoparticles on the nervous system based on toxic biomarkers regarding region-specific profiling of altered metabolic signatures.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide information to advance knowledge of neurotoxic effects of CQDs and guide their further safety evaluation.

Targeting Mitochondrial Complex I Deficiency in MPP+/MPTP-induced Parkinson's Disease Cell Culture and Mouse Models by Transducing Yeast NDI1 Gene

BACKGROUND

MPTP (1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine), original found in synthetic heroin, causes Parkinson's disease (PD) in human through its metabolite MPP+ by inhibiting complex I of mitochondrial respiratory chain in dopaminergic neurons. This study explored whether yeast internal NADH-quinone oxidoreductase (NDI1) has therapeutic effects in MPTP- induced PD models by functionally compensating for the impaired complex I. MPP+-treated SH-SY5Y cells and MPTP-treated mice were used as the PD cell culture and mouse models respectively. The recombinant NDI1 lentivirus was transduced into SH-SY5Y cells, or the recombinant NDI1 adeno-associated virus (rAAV5-NDI1) was injected into substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) of mice.

RESULTS

The study in vitro showed NDI1 prevented MPP+-induced change in cell morphology and decreased cell viability, mitochondrial coupling efficiency, complex I-dependent oxygen consumption, and mitochondria-derived ATP. The study in vivo revealed that rAAV-NDI1 injection significantly improved the motor ability and exploration behavior of MPTP-induced PD mice. Accordingly, NDI1 notably improved dopaminergic neuron survival, reduced the inflammatory response, and significantly increased the dopamine content in striatum and complex I activity in substantia nigra.

CONCLUSIONS

NDI1 compensates for the defective complex I in MPP+/MPTP-induced models, and vastly alleviates MPTP-induced toxic effect on dopaminergic neurons. Our study may provide a basis for gene therapy of sporadic PD with defective complex I caused by MPTP-like substance.

The neuroprotective effects of ferulic acid in toxin-induced models of Parkinson's disease: A review

Parkinson's disease is predominantly caused by dopaminergic neuron loss in the substantia nigra pars compacta and the accumulation of alpha-synuclein protein. Though the general consensus is that several factors, such as aging, environmental factors, mitochondrial dysfunction, accumulations of neurotoxic alpha-synuclein, malfunctions of the lysosomal and proteasomal protein degradation systems, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation, are involved in the neurodegeneration process of Parkinson's disease, the precise mechanism by which all of these factors are triggered remains unknown. Typically, neurotoxic compounds such as rotenone, 6-hydroxydopamine, 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), 1-methyl 4-phenyl pyridinium (mpp+), paraquat, and maneb are used to Preclinical models of Parkinson's disease Ferulic acid is often referred to by its scientific name, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid (C10H10O4), and is found naturally in cereals, fruits, vegetables, and bee products. This substance exhibits neuroprotective effects against Parkinson's disease because of its intriguing potential, which includes anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities. This review goes into additional detail about Parkinson's disease and the neuroprotective properties of ferulic acid that may help prevent the condition.

PI3K/AKT signaling activation by roflumilast ameliorates rotenone-induced Parkinson's disease in rats

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common progressive age-related neurodegenerative disorder. Paramount evidence shed light on the role of PI3K/AKT signaling activation in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. PI3K/AKT signaling can be activated via cAMP-dependent pathways achieved by phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibition. Roflumilast is a well-known PDE4 inhibitor that is currently used in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Furthermore, roflumilast has been proposed as a favorable candidate for the treatment of neurological disorders. The current study aimed to unravel the neuroprotective role of roflumilast in the rotenone model of PD in rats. Ninety male rats were allocated into six groups as follows: control, rotenone (1.5 mg/kg/48 h, s.c.), L-dopa (22.5 mg/kg, p.o), and roflumilast (0.2, 0.4 or 0.8 mg/kg, p.o). All treatments were administrated for 21 days 1 h after rotenone injection. Rats treated with roflumilast showed an improvement in motor activity and coordination as well as preservation of dopaminergic neurons in the striatum. Moreover, roflumilast increased cAMP level and activated the PI3K/AKT axis via stimulation of CREB/BDNF/TrkB and SIRT1/PTP1B/IGF1 signaling cascades. Roflumilast also caused an upsurge in mTOR and Nrf2, halted GSK-3β and NF-ĸB, and suppressed FoxO1 and caspase-3. Our study revealed that roflumilast exerted neuroprotective effects in rotenone-induced neurotoxicity in rats. These neuroprotective effects were mediated via the crosstalk between CREB/BDNF/TrkB and SIRT1/PTP1B/IGF1 signaling pathways which activates PI3K/AKT trajectory. Therefore, PDE4 inhibition is likely to offer a reliable persuasive avenue in curing PD via PI3K/AKT signaling activation.

Parkinson's Disease and MicroRNAs: A Duel Between Inhibition and Stimulation of Apoptosis in Neuronal Cells

Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent diseases of central nervous system that is caused by degeneration of the substantia nigra's dopamine-producing neurons through apoptosis. Apoptosis is regulated by initiators' and executioners' caspases both in intrinsic and extrinsic pathways, further resulting in neuronal damage. In that context, targeting apoptosis appears as a promising therapeutic approach for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Non-coding RNAs-more especially, microRNAs, or miRNAs-are a promising target for the therapy of neurodegenerative diseases because they are essential for a number of cellular processes, including signaling, apoptosis, cell proliferation, and gene regulation. It is estimated that a substantial portion of coding genes (more than 60%) are regulated by miRNAs. These small regulatory molecules can have wide-reaching consequences on cellular processes like apoptosis, both in terms of intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Furthermore, it was recommended that a disruption in miRNA expression levels could also result in perturbation of typical apoptosis pathways, which may be a factor in certain diseases like PD. The latest research on miRNAs and their impact on neural cell injury in PD models by regulating the apoptosis pathway is summarized in this review article. Furthermore, the importance of lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network for regulating apoptosis pathways in PD models and treatment is explored. These results can be utilized for developing new strategies in PD treatment.

VDR and deubiquitination control neuronal oxidative stress and microglial inflammation in Parkinson's disease

Close correlation between vitamin D (VitD) deficiency and Parkinson's Disease (PD) risk, VitD as an adjuvant treatment promising to improve PD progression. However, VitD excessive intake could induce hypercalcemia and renal damage. Therefore, upregulation of vitD receptor (VDR) is considered a compensatory strategy to overcome VitD insufficiency and alleviate PD symptoms. In this study, we discovered that VDR played antioxidative roles in dopaminergic neurons by decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and maintaining mitochondrial membrane potential. Further, we newly identified VDR downstream events in C. elegans, including glutathione S-transferase (gst) and forkhead box transcription factor class O (daf-16) mediated oxidative stress resistance. VDR upregulation also mitigated microglial activation through inhibition of NLRP3/caspase-1-mediated inflammation and membrane permeabilization. These findings highlight the multifaceted protective effects of VDR in both neurons and microglia against the development of PD. Importantly, we discovered a novel deubiquitinase DUB3, whose N-terminal catalytic domain interacted with the C-terminal ligand-binding domain of VDR to reduce VDR ubiquitination. Identification of DUB3 as an essential player in the deubiquitinating mechanism of VDR provides valuable insights into VDR regulation and its potential as a therapeutic target for PD.

Bioactivities of morroniside: A comprehensive review of pharmacological properties and molecular mechanisms

Morroniside (MOR) is an iridoid glycoside and the main active principle of the medicinal plant, Cornus officinalis Sieb. This phytochemical is associated with numerous health benefits due to its antioxidant properties. The primary objective of the present study was to assess the pharmacological effects and underlying mechanisms of MOR, utilizing published data obtained from literature databases. Data collection involved accessing various sources, including PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and SpringerLink. Our findings demonstrate that MOR can be utilized for the treatment of several diseases and disorders, as numerous studies have revealed its significant therapeutic activities. These activities encompass anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, lipid-lowering capability, anticancer, trichogenic, hepatoprotective, gastroprotective, osteoprotective, renoprotective, and cardioprotective effects. MOR has also shown promising benefits against various neurological ailments, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, spinal cord injury, cerebral ischemia, and neuropathic pain. Considering these therapeutic features, MOR holds promise as a lead compound for the treatment of various ailments and disorders. However, further comprehensive preclinical and clinical trials are required to establish MOR as an effective and reliable therapeutic agent.

Subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation alleviates oxidative stress via mitophagy in Parkinson's disease

Subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) has the potential to delay Parkinson's disease (PD) progression. Whether oxidative stress participates in the neuroprotective effects of DBS and related signaling pathways remains unknown. To address this, we applied STN-DBS to mice and monkey models of PD and collected brain tissue to evaluate mitophagy, oxidative stress, and related pathway. To confirm findings in animal experiments, a cohort of PD patients was recruited and oxidative stress was evaluated in cerebrospinal fluid. When PD mice received STN stimulation, the mTOR pathway was suppressed, accompanied by elevated LC3 II expression, increased mitophagosomes, and a decrease in p62 expression. The increase in mitophagy and balance of mitochondrial fission/fusion dynamics in the substantia nigra caused a marked enhancement of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and glutathione levels. Subsequently, fewer mitochondrial apoptogenic factors were released to the cytoplasm, which resulted in a suppression of caspase activation and reservation of dopaminergic neurons. While interfaced with an mTOR activator, oxidative stress was no longer regulated by STN-DBS, with no neuroprotective effect. Similar results to those found in the rodent experiments were obtained in monkeys treated with chronic STN stimulation. Moreover, antioxidant enzymes in PD patients were increased after the operation, however, there was no relation between changes in antioxidant enzymes and motor impairment. Collectively, our study found that STN-DBS was able to increase mitophagy via an mTOR-dependent pathway, and oxidative stress was suppressed due to removal of damaged mitochondria, which was attributed to the dopaminergic neuroprotection of STN-DBS in PD.

Microbiota, Tryptophan and Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptors as the Target Triad in Parkinson's Disease-A Narrative Review

In the era of a steadily increasing lifespan, neurodegenerative diseases among the elderly present a significant therapeutic and socio-economic challenge. A properly balanced diet and microbiome diversity have been receiving increasing attention as targets for therapeutic interventions in neurodegeneration. Microbiota may affect cognitive function, neuronal survival and death, and gut dysbiosis was identified in Parkinson's disease (PD). Tryptophan (Trp), an essential amino acid, is degraded by microbiota and hosts numerous compounds with immune- and neuromodulating properties. This broad narrative review presents data supporting the concept that microbiota, the Trp-kynurenine (KYN) pathway and aryl hydrocarbon receptors (AhRs) form a triad involved in PD. A disturbed gut-brain axis allows the bidirectional spread of pro-inflammatory molecules and α-synuclein, which may contribute to the development/progression of the disease. We suggest that the peripheral levels of kynurenines and AhR ligands are strongly linked to the Trp metabolism in the gut and should be studied together with the composition of the microbiota. Such an approach can clearly delineate the sub-populations of PD patients manifesting with a disturbed microbiota-Trp-KYN-brain triad, who would benefit from modifications in the Trp metabolism. Analyses of the microbiome, Trp-KYN pathway metabolites and AhR signaling may shed light on the mechanisms of intestinal distress and identify new targets for the diagnosis and treatment in early-stage PD. Therapeutic interventions based on the combination of a well-defined food regimen, Trp and probiotics seem of potential benefit and require further experimental and clinical research.

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1 (PGC-1) family in physiological and pathophysiological process and diseases

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1 (PGC-1) family (PGC-1s), consisting of three members encompassing PGC-1α, PGC-1β, and PGC-1-related coactivator (PRC), was discovered more than a quarter-century ago. PGC-1s are essential coordinators of many vital cellular events, including mitochondrial functions, oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis, and inflammation. Accumulating evidence has shown that PGC-1s are implicated in many diseases, such as cancers, cardiac diseases and cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, kidney diseases, motor system diseases, and metabolic disorders. Examining the upstream modulators and co-activated partners of PGC-1s and identifying critical biological events modulated by downstream effectors of PGC-1s contribute to the presentation of the elaborate network of PGC-1s. Furthermore, discussing the correlation between PGC-1s and diseases as well as summarizing the therapy targeting PGC-1s helps make individualized and precise intervention methods. In this review, we summarize basic knowledge regarding the PGC-1s family as well as the molecular regulatory network, discuss the physio-pathological roles of PGC-1s in human diseases, review the application of PGC-1s, including the diagnostic and prognostic value of PGC-1s and several therapies in pre-clinical studies, and suggest several directions for future investigations. This review presents the immense potential of targeting PGC-1s in the treatment of diseases and hopefully facilitates the promotion of PGC-1s as new therapeutic targets.

J24335 exerts neuroprotective effects against 6-hydroxydopamine-induced lesions in PC12 cells and mice

Parkinson's disease is the second most prevalent age-related neurodegenerative disease and disrupts the lives of people aged >60 years. Meanwhile, single-target drugs becoming inapplicable as PD pathogenesis diversifies. Mitochondrial dysfunction and neurotoxicity have been shown to be relevant to the pathogenesis of PD. The novel synthetic compound J24335 (11-Hydroxy-1-(8-methoxy-5-(trifluoromethyl)quinolin-2-yl)undecan-1-one oxime), which has been researched similarly to J2326, has the potential to be a multi-targeted drug and alleviate these lesions. Therefore, we investigated the mechanism of action and potential neuroprotective function of J24335 against 6-OHDA-induced neurotoxicity in mice, and in PC12 cell models. The key target of action of J24335 was also screened. MTT assay, LDH assay, flow cytometry, RT-PCR, LC-MS, OCR and ECAR detection, and Western Blot analysis were performed to characterize the neuroprotective effects of J24335 on PC12 cells and its potential mechanism. Behavioral tests and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate behavioral changes and brain lesions in mice. Moreover, bioinformatics was employed to assess the drug-likeness of J24335 and screen its potential targets. J24335 attenuated the degradation of mitochondrial membrane potential and enhanced glucose metabolism and mitochondrial biosynthesis to ameliorate 6-OHDA-induced mitochondrial dysfunction. Animal behavioral tests demonstrated that J24335 markedly improved motor function and loss of TH-positive neurons and dopaminergic nerve fibers, and contributed to an increase in the levels of dopamine and its metabolites in brain tissue. The activation of both the CREB/PGC-1α/NRF-1/TFAM and PKA/Akt/GSK-3β pathways was a major contributor to the neuroprotective effects of J24335. Furthermore, bioinformatics predictions revealed that J24335 is a low toxicity and highly BBB permeable compound targeting 8 key genes (SRC, EGFR, ERBB2, SYK, MAPK14, LYN, NTRK1 and PTPN1). Molecular docking suggested a strong and stable binding between J24335 and the 8 core targets. Taken together, our results indicated that J24335, as a multi-targeted neuroprotective agent with promising therapeutic potential for PD, could protect against 6-OHDA-induced neurotoxicity via two potential pathways in mice and PC12 cells.

Cyclin-dependent Kinase 5 and Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases are a group of diseases characterized by the progressive loss of neurons, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. These diseases have a high incidence and mortality rate globally, placing a heavy burden on patients and their families. The pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases is complex, and there are no effective treatments at present. Cyclin-dependent kinase 5 is a proline-directed serine/threonine protein kinase that is closely related to the development and function of the nervous system. Under physiological conditions, it is involved in regulating the process of neuronal proliferation, differentiation, migration, and synaptic plasticity. Moreover, there is increasing evidence that cyclin-dependent kinase 5 also plays an important role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we address the biological characteristics of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 and its role in neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, this review highlights the underlying mechanistic linkages between cyclin-dependent kinase 5 and mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in the context of neurodegeneration. Finally, we also summarize the currently available cyclin-dependent kinase 5 inhibitors and their prospects for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Taken together, a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 involved in neurodegenerative diseases can lead to the development of new strategies for the prevention and treatment of these devastating diseases.

The Protective Impact of Aronia melanocarpa L. Berries Extract against Prooxidative Cadmium Action in the Brain-A Study in an In Vivo Model of Current Environmental Human Exposure to This Harmful Element

Cadmium (Cd) is a prooxidant that adversely affects human health, including the nervous system. As exposure of the general population to this heavy metal is inevitable, it is crucial to look for agents that can prevent the effects of its toxic action. An experimental model on female rats of current lifetime human exposure to cadmium (3-24-months' treatment with 1 or 5 mg Cd/kg diet) was used to test whether low-level and moderate intoxication can exert a prooxidative impact in the brain and whether supplementation with a 0.1% extract from the berries of Aronia melanocarpa L. (Michx.) Elliott (AE; chokeberry extract) can protect against this action. Numerous parameters of the non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidative barrier, as well as total antioxidative and oxidative status (TAS and TOS, respectively), were determined and the index of oxidative stress (OSI) was calculated. Moreover, chosen prooxidants (myeloperoxidase, xanthine oxidase, and hydrogen peroxide) and biomarkers of oxidative modifications of lipids, proteins, and deoxyribonucleic acid were assayed. Cadmium dysregulated the balance between oxidants and antioxidants in the brain and led to oxidative stress and oxidative injury of the cellular macromolecules, whereas the co-administration of AE alleviated these effects. To summarize, long-term, even low-level, cadmium exposure can pose a risk of failure of the nervous system by the induction of oxidative stress in the brain, whereas supplementation with products based on aronia berries seems to be an effective protective strategy.

Inhibition of GluN2D-Containing NMDA Receptors Protects Dopaminergic Neurons against 6-OHDA-Induced Neurotoxicity via Activating ERK/NRF2/HO-1 Signaling

Abnormal glutamate signaling is implicated in the heightened vulnerability of dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson's disease (PD). NMDA receptors are ion-gated glutamate receptors with high calcium permeability, and their GluN2D subunits are prominently distributed in the basal ganglia and brainstem nuclei. Previous studies have reported that dopamine depletion led to the dysfunctions of GluN2D-containing NMDA receptors in PD animal models. However, it remains unknown whether selective modulation of GluN2D could protect dopaminergic neurons against neurotoxicity in PD. In this study, we found that allosteric activation of GluN2D-containing NMDA receptors decreased the cell viability of MES23.5 dopaminergic cells and the GluN2D inhibitor, QNZ46, showed antioxidant effects and significantly relieved apoptosis in 6-OHDA-treated cells. Meanwhile, we demonstrated that QNZ46 might act via activation of the ERK/NRF2/HO-1 pathway. We also verified that QNZ46 could rescue abnormal behaviors and attenuate dopaminergic cell loss in a 6-OHDA-lesioned rat model of PD. Although the precise mechanisms underlying the efficacy of QNZ46 in vivo remain elusive, the inhibition of the GluN2D subunit should be a considerable way to treat PD. More GluN2D-selective drugs, which present minimal side effects and broad therapeutic windows, need to be developed for PD treatment in future studies.

Investigating the TLR4/TAK1/IRF7 axis in NLRP3-Mediated Pyroptosis in Parkinson's Disease

In the realm of Parkinson's disease (PD) research, NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis has recently garnered significant attention as a potential novel form of dopaminergic neuronal death. Our previous research revealed the activation of innate immune-related genes, such as the TLR4 signaling pathway and interferon regulatory factor 7 (IRF7), although the specific mechanism remains unclear. Our current study shed light on whether the TLR4 signaling pathway and IRF7 can affect the pyroptosis of dopaminergic nerve cells and thus participate in the pathogenesis of PD. The PD model was constructed by MPP+ treatment of PC12 cells or stereotactic injection of the striatum of SD rats, and the expression of genes were detected by RT-qPCR and Western Blotting. Lentivirus, siRNA and (5Z)-7-Oxozeaenol were used to validate the regulation of this pathway on pyroptosis. The expression of TLR4, TAK1, IRF7 and pyroptosis molecular markers was upregulated after MPP+ treatment. IRF7 could affect dopaminergic neural cells pyroptosis by targeted regulation of NLRP3. Furthermore, inhibition of the TLR4/TAK1 signaling pathway led to a decrease in the expression of both IRF7 and NLRP3, while overexpression of IRF7 reversed the reduction in pyroptosis and increase in TH expression. TLR4/TAK1/IRF7 axis can promote PD by influencing pyroptosis through NLRP3.

Global trends in PANoptosis research: bibliometrics and knowledge graph analysis

PANoptosis has recently been discovered as a new type of cell death. PANoptosis mainly refers to the significant interaction among the three programmed cell death pathways of apoptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis. Despite this, only a few studies have examined the systematic literature in this area. By analyzing the bibliometric data for PANoptosis, we can visualize the current hotspots and predicted trends in research. This study analyzed bibliometric indicators using the Histcite Pro 2.0 tool, which searches the Web of Science for PANoptosis literature published between 2016 and 2022. A bibliometric analysis was performed using Histcite Pro 2.0, while research trends and hotspots were visualized using VOSviewer, CiteSpace and BioBERT. The output of related literature was low in the four years from the first presentation of PANoptosis in 2016 to 2020. The volume of relevant literature grew exponentially between 2020 and 2022. The United States and China play a leading role in this field. Although China started late, its research in this field is developing rapidly. As research progressed, more focus was placed on the relationship between PANoptosis and pyroptosis, as well as apoptosis and necrosis. Now is a rapid development stage of PANoptosis research. Most of the research focuses on the cellular level, and the focus is more on the treatment of tumor-related diseases. The current focus of this area is PANoptosis mechanisms in cancer and inflammation. It can be seen from the burst analysis of keywords that caspase1 and host defense have consistently been research hotspots in the field of PANoptosis, while the frequency of NLRC4, causes of autoinflammation, recognition, NLRP3, and Gasdermin D has gradually increased, all of which have become research hotspots in recent years. Finally, we used the BioBERT biomedical language model to mine the most documented genes and diseases in the PANoptosis field articles, pointing out the direction for subsequent research steps. According to a bibliometric analysis, researchers have shown an increased interest in PANoptosis over the past few years. Researchers initially focused on the molecular mechanism of PANoptosis and pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis. The role of PANoptosis in diseases and conditions such as inflammation and tumors is one of the current research hotspots in this area. The focus is more on treating inflammation-related diseases, which will become the key development direction of future research.

CDNF and ER stress: Pharmacology and therapeutic possibilities

Cerebral dopamine neurotrophic factor (CDNF) is an endogenous protein in humans and other vertebrates, and it has been shown to have protective and restorative effects on cells in various disease models. Although it is named as a neurotrophic factor, its actions are drastically different from classical neurotrophic factors such as neurotrophins or the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic family of proteins. Like all secreted proteins, CDNF has a signal sequence at the N-terminus, but unlike common growth factors it has a KDEL-receptor retrieval sequence at the C-terminus. Thus, CDNF is mainly located in the ER. In response to adverse effects, such as ER stress, the expression of CDNF is upregulated and can alleviate ER stress. Also different from other neurotrophic factors, CDNF reduces protein aggregation and inflammation in disease models. Although it is an ER luminal protein, it can surprisingly directly interact with alpha-synuclein, a protein involved in the pathogenesis of synucleinopathies e.g., Parkinson's disease. Pleiotropic CDNF has therapeutic potential and has been tested as a recombinant human protein and gene therapy. The neuroprotective and neurorestorative effects have been described in a number of preclinical studies of Parkinson's disease, stroke and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Currently, it was successfully evaluated for safety in a phase 1/2 clinical trial for Parkinson's disease. Collectively, based on recent findings on the mode of action and therapeutic potential of CDNF, its use as a drug could be expanded to other ER stress-related diseases.

The Extraction, Determination, and Bioactivity of Curcumenol: A Comprehensive Review

Curcuma wenyujin is a member of the Curcuma zedoaria (zedoary, Zingiberaceae) family, which has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) due to its abundant biologically active constituents. Curcumenol, a component of Curcuma wenyujin, has several biological activities. At present, despite different pharmacological activities being reported, the clinical usage of curcumenol remains under investigation. To further determine the characteristics of curcumenol, the extraction, determination, and bioactivity of the compound are summarized in this review. Existing research has reported that curcumenol exerts different pharmacological effects in regard to a variety of diseases, including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-bactericidal, anti-diabetic, and anti-cancer activity, and also ameliorates osteoporosis. This review of curcumenol provides a theoretical basis for further research and clinical applications.

Integrated proteomics and metabolomics reveals metabolism disorders in the α-syn mice and potential therapeutic effect of Acanthopanax senticosus extracts

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Acanthopanax senticosus (Rupr.et.Maxim.)Harms(AS) is an extract of Eleutherococcus senticocus Maxim(Rupr.et.Maxim.). In modern medical interpretation, Acanthopanax senticosus can be used to treat Parkinson's disease, and a large number of modern pharmacological and clinical studies also support this application. Our study demonstrated that AS extracts can increase the activity of various antioxidant enzymes and improve the symptoms of Parkinson's disease in mice.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The current study looked at the protective effect of Acanthopanax senticosus extracts(ASE) in preventing PD.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

First, the α-syn-overexpressing mice were chosen as suitable models for Parkinson's disease in vivo. HE staining was used to observe the pathological changes in the substantia nigra. Meanwhile, TH expression in substantia nigra was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Behavioral and biochemical tests evaluated neuroprotective effects of ASE on PD mice. Subsequently, combined with proteomics and metabolomics analysis, the changes in brain proteins and metabolites in mice treated with ASE for PD were studied. Finally, Western blot was used to detect metabolome-related and proteomic proteins in the brain tissue of α-syn mice.

RESULTS

Forty-nine common differentially expressed proteins were screened by proteomics analysis, among which 28 were significantly up-regulated,and 21 were significantly down-regulated. Metabolomics analysis showed that twenty-five potentially important metabolites were involved in the therapeutic effect of ASE on PD. Most of the different proteins and metabolites were considered to be enriched in a variety of species in metabolic pathways, including glutathione metabolism and alanine aspartate and glutamate metabolism and other pathways, which means that ASE may have molecular mechanisms to ameliorate PD dysfunction. In addition, we found that decreases in glutathione and glutathione disulfide levels may play a critical role in these systemic changes and warrant further investigation. In the glutathione metabolic pathway, ASE also acts on GPX4, GCLC and GCLM.

CONCLUSIONS

ASE can effectively relieve behavioral symptoms of α-syn mice and relieve oxidative stress in brain tissue. These findings suggest that ASE offers a potential solution to target these pathways for the treatment of PD.

Geniposide protects against neurotoxicity in mouse models of rotenone-induced Parkinson's disease involving the mTOR and Nrf2 pathways

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Fructus Gardeniae, with the effects of discharging fire, eliminating vexation, reducing fever and causing diuresis, and cooling blood to remove apthogentic heat, could be used to treat Parkinson's disease (PD). Geniposide, as the main active ingredient of Fructus Gardeniae, has been shown to have neuroprotective effects in several rodent models. Rotenone, a commonly used neurotoxin, induced PD model progresses slowly, but simulates the pathological changes of PD's slow progression.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Herein, we mainly investigated the neuroprotective effects of geniposide on rotenone-induced mouse model of PD and the underlined mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

C57BL/6 mice were treated with rotenone (30 mg/kg, p. o.) daily for 60 days. Geniposide (25 and 50 mg/kg, p. o.) were administered at alterative day 30 min before rotenone. On day 60, the challenging beam, spontaneous activity, and adhesive removal tests were performed to evaluate the motor activity. Dopamine, DOPAC and HVA levels were detected by UPLC-MS/MS methods. Dopaminergic neurodegeneration was assessed using immunohistochemistry staining. ROS production, MDA level and GSH: GSSG ratio were measured to analyze oxidative stress. Cleavage of PARP and caspase-3 were detected to assess neuronal apoptosis. The expression of Nrf2 and mTOR signaling were detected using Western blot.

RESULTS

Geniposide improved motor dysfunction, restored neurotransmitters levels, and attenuated dopaminergic neurodegeneration induced by rotenone in mice. Geniposide suppressed rotenone-induced neuronal oxidative damage associated with Nrf2 signaling, and neuronal apoptosis involving mTOR pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Geniposide may exert a neuroprotective effect in a mouse model of PD by rotenone, and this effect might be relevant to Nrf2 associated antioxidant signaling and mTOR involved anti-apoptosis pathway.

Dietary vitamin E intake and risk of Parkinson's disease: a cross-sectional study

Objective

Current evidence on the association between dietary vitamin E intake and the risk of Parkinson's disease (PD) is limited. The aim of the study was to explore the association of dietary vitamin E intake with PD in the United States among adults over 40 years.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study with data collected from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2009 to 2018. A total of the sample of 13,340 participants were included. To identify the different characteristics of the participants, we utilized propensity score matching (PSM) to reduce the effects of selection bias and confounding variables. Weighted univariate and multivariable logistic regression were used to examine the association between dietary vitamin E intake and PD before and after matching. Then, restricted cubic spline (RCS) was used to visually describe the possible non-linear relationships. Finally, we employed the subgroup analysis to further investigate the relationship between dietary vitamin E intake and PD.

Results

According to the weighted univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis, vitamin E intake was inversely associated with the risk of PD before and after matching. The results of RCS analysis revealed no non-linear inverse relationship between vitamin E intake and PD before and after matching. The subgroup analysis showed that age may influence the negative association between vitamin E and PD (P < 0.05 for interaction).

Conclusion

Among participants over 40 years of age, vitamin E intake was negatively associated with the risk of PD. Our data may support the supplementation of vitamin E to be used as an intervention strategy for the occurrence of PD.

Association of liver fibrosis with cognitive decline in Parkinson's disease

BACKGROUND

Cognitive decline is a common but variable non-motor manifestation of Parkinson's disease. Chronic liver disease contributes to dementia, but its impact on cognitive performance in Parkinson's disease is unknown. We assessed the effect of liver fibrosis on cognition in Parkinson's disease.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using data from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative. Our exposure was liver fibrosis at baseline, based on the validated Fibrosis-4 score. Our primary outcome was the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and additional outcome measures were the Symbol Digit Modalities Test, the Benton Judgement of Line Orientation, the Letter-Number Sequencing Test, and the Modified Semantic Fluency Test. We used linear regression models to assess the relationship between liver fibrosis and scores on cognitive assessments at baseline and linear mixed models to evaluate the association between baseline Fibrosis-4 score with changes in each cognitive test over five years. Models were adjusted for demographics, comorbidities, and alcohol use.

RESULTS

We included 409 participants (mean age 61, 40 % women). There was no significant association between liver fibrosis and baseline performance on any of the cognitive assessments in adjusted models. However, over the subsequent five year period, liver fibrosis was associated with more rapid decline in scores on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (interaction coefficient, -0.07; 95 % CI, -0.12, -0.02), the Symbol Digit Modalities Test, the Benton Judgement of Line Orientation, and the Modified Semantic Fluency Test.

CONCLUSION

In people with Parkinson's disease, the presence of comorbid liver fibrosis was associated with more rapid decline across multiple cognitive domains.

Byrsonima sericea Ethanol Extract Protected PC12 Cells from the Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis Induced by 6-Hydroxydopamine

Parkinson's disease is characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the nigrostriatal pathway and oxidative stress is one of the main mechanisms that lead to neuronal death in this disease. Previous studies have shown antioxidant activity from the leaves of Byrsonima sericea, a plant of the Malpighiaceae family. This study aimed to evaluate the cytoprotective activity of the B. sericea ethanolic extract (BSEE) against the cytotoxicity induced by 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) in PC12 cells, an in vitro model of parkinsonism. The identification of phenolic compounds in the extract by HPLC-DAD revealed the presence of geraniin, rutin, isoquercetin, kaempferol 3-O-β-rutinoside, and quercetin. The BSEE (75-300 µg/mL) protected PC12 cells from toxicity induced by 6-OHDA (25 µg/mL), protected cell membrane integrity and showed antioxidant activity. BSEE was able to decrease nitrite levels, glutathione depletion, and protect cells from 6-OHDA-induced apoptosis. Thus, we suggest that the BSEE can be explored as a possible cytoprotective agent for Parkinson's disease due to its high antioxidant capacity and anti-apoptotic action.

Neuroprotective role of FOXA1 in Parkinson's disease: Involvements of NF1 transcription activation and MAPK signaling pathway inhibition

Forkhead box A1 (FOXA1), a member of the forkhead family of transcription factors, plays a crucial role in the development of various organ systems and exhibits neuroprotective properties. This study aims to investigate the effect of FOXA1 on Parkinson's disease (PD) and unravel the underlying mechanism. Transcriptome analysis of PD was conducted using three GEO datasets to identify aberrantly expressed genes. A mouse model of PD was generated by injecting neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine hydrochloride (MPTP), resulting in reduced FOXA1 expression. FOXA1 decline was also observed in 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium-treated SH-SY5Y cells. Artificial upregulation of FOXA1 improved motor abilities of mice according to rotarod and pole tests, and it mitigated tissue damage, cell loss, and neuronal damage in the mouse substantia nigra or in vitro. FOXA1 was found to bind to the neurofibromin 1 (NF1) promoter, thereby inducing its transcription and inactivating the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. Further experimentation revealed that silencing NF1 in mice or SH-SY5Y cells counteracted the neuroprotective effects of FOXA1. In conclusion, this research suggests that FOXA1 activates NF1 transcription and inactivates the MAPK signaling pathway, ultimately ameliorating neuronal damage and motor disability in PD. The findings may offer novel ideas in the field of PD management.

Targeting epigenetic and posttranslational modifications regulating ferroptosis for the treatment of diseases

Ferroptosis, a unique modality of cell death with mechanistic and morphological differences from other cell death modes, plays a pivotal role in regulating tumorigenesis and offers a new opportunity for modulating anticancer drug resistance. Aberrant epigenetic modifications and posttranslational modifications (PTMs) promote anticancer drug resistance, cancer progression, and metastasis. Accumulating studies indicate that epigenetic modifications can transcriptionally and translationally determine cancer cell vulnerability to ferroptosis and that ferroptosis functions as a driver in nervous system diseases (NSDs), cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), liver diseases, lung diseases, and kidney diseases. In this review, we first summarize the core molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis. Then, the roles of epigenetic processes, including histone PTMs, DNA methylation, and noncoding RNA regulation and PTMs, such as phosphorylation, ubiquitination, SUMOylation, acetylation, methylation, and ADP-ribosylation, are concisely discussed. The roles of epigenetic modifications and PTMs in ferroptosis regulation in the genesis of diseases, including cancers, NSD, CVDs, liver diseases, lung diseases, and kidney diseases, as well as the application of epigenetic and PTM modulators in the therapy of these diseases, are then discussed in detail. Elucidating the mechanisms of ferroptosis regulation mediated by epigenetic modifications and PTMs in cancer and other diseases will facilitate the development of promising combination therapeutic regimens containing epigenetic or PTM-targeting agents and ferroptosis inducers that can be used to overcome chemotherapeutic resistance in cancer and could be used to prevent other diseases. In addition, these mechanisms highlight potential therapeutic approaches to overcome chemoresistance in cancer or halt the genesis of other diseases.

Aerobic glycolysis is the predominant means of glucose metabolism in neuronal somata, which protects against oxidative damage

It is generally thought that under basal conditions, neurons produce ATP mainly through mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), and glycolytic activity only predominates when neurons are activated and need to meet higher energy demands. However, it remains unknown whether there are differences in glucose metabolism between neuronal somata and axon terminals. Here, we demonstrated that neuronal somata perform higher levels of aerobic glycolysis and lower levels of OXPHOS than terminals, both during basal and activated states. We found that the glycolytic enzyme pyruvate kinase 2 (PKM2) is localized predominantly in the somata rather than in the terminals. Deletion of Pkm2 in mice results in a switch from aerobic glycolysis to OXPHOS in neuronal somata, leading to oxidative damage and progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons. Our findings update the conventional view that neurons uniformly use OXPHOS under basal conditions and highlight the important role of somatic aerobic glycolysis in maintaining antioxidant capacity.

miR-15b-5p transcription mediated by CREB1 protects against inflammation and apoptosis in Parkinson disease models by inhibiting AXIN2 and activating Wnt/β-catenin

Parkinson disease (PD) is a major neurodegenerative disease that greatly undermines people's health and for which effective therapeutic strategies are currently limited. This study dissected the effects of expression changes of AXIN2, a modulator of the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway, the transcription factor CREB1, and of the microRNA miR-15b-5p on apoptosis and the inflammatory response in a PD mouse model in vivo and in a cellular PD model in vitro. The analyses demonstrated low CREB1 and miR-15b-5p expression and high AXIN2 expression in both models. miR-15b-5p overexpression or AXIN2 knockdown alleviated the inflammatory response indicated by decreased levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β and apoptosis indicated by decreased levels of cleaved caspase-3 and Bax and elevated Bcl-2. Protection by miR-15b-5p upregulation was counteracted by the simultaneous overexpression of AXIN2. miR-15b-5p targeted AXIN2. CREB1 promoted miR-15b-5p expression, which activated the Wnt/β-catenin pathway by inhibiting AXIN2. Collectively, the data indicate that transcriptional expression of miR-15b-5p can be promoted by CREB1 to inhibit AXIN2 and activate Wnt/β-catenin, thereby reducing the inflammatory response and apoptosis in these PD models. These data suggest the CREB1/miR-15b-5p/AXIN2 axis is a potential therapeutic target in PD patients.

Emerging trends and hotspots of Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 in nervous system diseases

BACKGROUND

The Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) transcription factor has attracted much attention in the context of neurological diseases. However, none of the studies have systematically clarified this field's research hotspots and evolution rules.

AIM

To investigate the research hotspots, evolution patterns, and future research trends in this field in recent years.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive literature search in the Web of Science Core Collection database using the following methods: (((((TS=(NFE2 L2)) OR TS=(Nfe2 L2 protein, mouse)) OR TS=(NF-E2-Related Factor 2)) OR TS=(NRF2)) OR TS=(NFE2L2)) OR TS=(Nuclear factor erythroid2-related factor 2) AND (((((((TS=(neurological diseases)) OR TS=(neurological disorder)) OR TS=(brain disorder)) OR TS=(brain injury)) OR TS=(central nervous system disease)) OR TS=(CNS disease)) OR TS=(central nervous system disorder)) OR TS=(CNS disorder) AND Language = English from 2010 to 2022. There are just two forms of literature available: Articles and reviews. Data were processed with the software Cite-Space (version 6.1. R6).

RESULTS

We analyzed 1884 articles from 200 schools in 72 countries/regions. Since 2015, the number of publications in this field has increased rapidly. China has the largest number of publications, but the articles published in the United States have better centrality and H-index. Among the top ten authors with the most published papers, five of them are from China, and the author with the most published papers is Wang Handong. The institution with the most articles was Nanjing University. To their credit, three of the top 10 most cited articles were written by Chinese scholars. The keyword co-occurrence map showed that "oxidative stress", "NRF2", "activation", "expression" and "brain" were the five most frequently used keywords.

CONCLUSION

Research on the role of NRF2 in neurological diseases continues unabated. Researchers in developed countries published more influential papers, while Chinese scholars provided the largest number of articles. There have been numerous studies on the mechanism of NRF2 transcription factor in neurological diseases. NRF2 is also emerging as a potentially effective target for the treatment of neurological diseases. However, despite decades of research, our knowledge of NRF2 transcription factor in nervous system diseases is still limited. Further studies are needed in the future.

SIRT1-dependent mitochondrial biogenesis supports therapeutic effects of vidarabine against rotenone-induced neural cell injury

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the world, which is distinguished by the loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra and the formation of intraneuronal. Numerous studies showed that the damage and dysfunction of mitochondria may play key roles in DA neuronal loss. Thus, it is necessary to seek therapeutic measures for PD targeting mitochondrial function and biogenesis. In this study, through screening the purchased compound library, we found that marine derived vidarabine had significant neuroprotective effects against rotenone (ROT) induced SH-SY5Y cell injury. Further studies indicated that vidarabine pretreatment significantly protected ROT-treated SH-SY5Y cells from toxicity by preserving mitochondrial morphology, improving mitochondrial function, and reducing cell apoptosis. Vidarabine also reduced the oxidative stress and increased the expression levels of PGC-1α, NRF1, and TFAM proteins, which was accompanied by the increased mitochondrial biogenesis. However, the neuroprotective effects of vidarabine were counteracted in the presence of SIRT1-specific inhibitor Ex-527. Besides, vidarabine treatment attenuated the weight loss, alleviated the motor deficits and inhibited the neuronal injury in the MPTP induced mouse model. Thus, vidarabine may exert neuroprotective effects via a mechanism involving specific connections between the SIRT1-dependent mitochondrial biogenesis and its antioxidant capacity, suggesting that vidarabine has potential to be developed into a novel therapeutic agent for PD.

Research progress in the molecular mechanism of ferroptosis in Parkinson's disease and regulation by natural plant products

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder of the central nervous system after Alzheimer's disease. The current understanding of PD focuses mainly on the loss of dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra region of the midbrain, which is attributed to factors such as oxidative stress, alpha-synuclein aggregation, neuroinflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. These factors together contribute to the PD phenotype. Recent studies on PD pathology have introduced a new form of cell death known as ferroptosis. Pathological changes closely linked with ferroptosis have been seen in the brain tissues of PD patients, including alterations in iron metabolism, lipid peroxidation, and increased levels of reactive oxygen species. Preclinical research has demonstrated the neuroprotective qualities of certain iron chelators, antioxidants, Fer-1, and conditioners in Parkinson's disease. Natural plant products have shown significant potential in balancing ferroptosis-related factors and adjusting their expression levels. Therefore, it is vital to understand the mechanisms by which natural plant products inhibit ferroptosis and relieve PD symptoms. This review provides a comprehensive look at ferroptosis, its role in PD pathology, and the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of natural plant products focused on ferroptosis. The insights from this review can serve as useful references for future research on novel ferroptosis inhibitors and lead compounds for PD treatment.

Pathological Correlates of Cognitive Decline in Parkinson's Disease: From Molecules to Neural Networks

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused by the death of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and appearance of protein aggregates (Lewy bodies) consisting predominantly of α-synuclein in neurons. PD is currently recognized as a multisystem disorder characterized by severe motor impairments and various non-motor symptoms. Cognitive decline is one of the most common and worrisome non-motor symptoms. Moderate cognitive impairments (CI) are diagnosed already at the early stages of PD, usually transform into dementia. The main types of CI in PD include executive dysfunction, attention and memory decline, visuospatial impairments, and verbal deficits. According to the published data, the following mechanisms play an essential role demonstrates a crucial importance in the decline of the motor and cognitive functions in PD: (1) changes in the conformational structure of transsynaptic proteins and protein aggregation in presynapses; (2) synaptic transmission impairment; (3) neuroinflammation (pathological activation of the neuroglia); (4) mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress; (5) metabolic disorders (hypometabolism of glucose, dysfunction of glycolipid metabolism; and (6) functional rearrangement of neuronal networks. These changes can lead to the death of dopaminergic cells in the substantia nigra and affect the functioning of other neurotransmitter systems, thus disturbing neuronal networks involved in the transmission of information related to the regulation of motor activity and cognitive functions. Identification of factors causing detrimental changes in PD and methods for their elimination will help in the development of new approaches to the therapy of PD. The goal of this review was to analyze pathological processes that take place in the brain and underlie the onset of cognitive disorders in PD, as well as to describe the impairments of cognitive functions in this disease.

Relationship between serum uric acid levels and the outcome of STN-DBS in Parkinson's disease

BACKGROUND

Uric acid is a natural antioxidant and it has been shown that low levels of uric acid may be a risk factor for the development of Parkinson's disease. We aimed to investigate the relationship between uric acid and improvement of motor symptoms in patients with Parkinson's disease after subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation.

METHODS

We analyzed the correlation between serum uric acid levels in 64 patients with Parkinson's disease and the rate of improvement of motor symptoms 2 years after subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation.

RESULTS

A non-linear correlation was observed between uric acid levels and the rate of motor symptom improvement after subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation, during both the drug-off and drug-on periods.

CONCLUSIONS

Uric acid is positively associated with the rate of motor symptom improvement in subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation within a certain range.

The Parkinson's disease-associated mutation LRRK2 G2385R alters mitochondrial biogenesis via the PGC-1α-TFAM pathway

Mutations in the Leucine-rich repeat protein kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene are the most frequent cause of familial Parkinson's disease (PD). Although LRRK2 has been extensively studied, the pathogenic mechanism of the LRRK2 G2385R mutation, which is most common in Asian populations, especially in the Chinese Han population, remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that the LRRK2 G2385R mutation in HEK293T cells led to a reduction in cellular PGC-1α protein expression and inhibition of mitochondrial biogenesis through the PGC-1α-TFAM pathway. This resulted in a decrease in mitochondrial genome expression, which in turn impaired the normal electron transfer process of the oxidative phosphorylation respiratory chain, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and onset of apoptosis. The mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis caused by the LRRK2 G2385R mutation were significantly alleviated by antioxidant Idebenone, which provides a theoretical basis for the subsequent development of precise treatment specifically for PD patients with LRRK2 G2385R mutation. Further validation of our findings in neurons and animal models are necessary.

Ferroptosis in Parkinson's disease: Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential

Parkinson's Disease (PD) is characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN), leading to motor and non-motor symptoms. While the exact mechanisms remain complex and multifaceted, several molecular pathways have been implicated in PD pathology, including accumulation of misfolded proteins, impaired mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, inflammation, elevated iron levels, etc. Overall, PD's molecular mechanisms involve a complex interplay between genetic, environmental, and cellular factors that disrupt cellular homeostasis, and ultimately lead to the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. Recently, emerging evidence highlights ferroptosis, an iron-dependent non-apoptotic cell death process, as a pivotal player in the advancement of PD. Notably, oligomeric α-synuclein (α-syn) generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxides within cellular membranes, potentially triggering ferroptosis. The loss of dopamine, a hallmark of PD, could predispose neurons to ferroptotic vulnerability. This unique form of cell demise unveils fresh insights into PD pathogenesis, necessitating an exploration of the molecular intricacies connecting ferroptosis and PD progression. In this review, the molecular and regulatory mechanisms of ferroptosis and their connection with the pathological processes of PD have been systematically summarized. Furthermore, the features of ferroptosis in PD animal models and clinical trials targeting ferroptosis as a therapeutic approach in PD patients' management are scrutinized.

Pinostrobin mitigates neurodegeneration through an up-regulation of antioxidants and GDNF in a rat model of Parkinson's disease

Background: One of the most common neurodegenerative diseases is Parkinson's disease (PD); PD is characterized by a reduction of neurons containing dopamine in the substantia nigra (SN), which leads to a lack of dopamine (DA) in nigrostriatal pathways, resulting in motor function disorders. Oxidative stress is considered as one of the etiologies involved in dopaminergic neuronal loss. Thus, we aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effects of pinostrobin (PB), a bioflavonoid extracted from Boesenbergia rotunda with antioxidative activity in PD. Methods: Rats were treated with 40 mg/kg of PB for seven consecutive days before and after 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced PD. After completing the experiment, the brains including SN and striatum were used for histological studies and biochemical assays. Results: PB treatment demonstrated a reduction of free radicals in the SN as indicated by significantly decreased MDA levels, whereas the antioxidative enzymes (SOD and GSH) were significantly increased. Furthermore, PB treatment significantly increased glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) immunolabelling which has neurotrophic and neuroprotective effects on the survival of dopaminergic neurons. Furthermore, PB treatment was shown to protect CA1 and CA3 neurons in the hippocampus and dopaminergic neurons in the SN. DA levels in the SN were increased after PB treatment, leading to the improvement of motor function of PD rats. Conclusions: These results imply that PB prevents MPTP-induced neurotoxicity via its antioxidant activities and increases GDNF levels, which may contribute to the therapeutic strategy for PD.

Engineered Selenium/Human Serum Albumin Nanoparticles for Efficient Targeted Treatment of Parkinson's Disease via Oral Gavage

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the degeneration of dopamine (DA) neurons in the midbrain substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc). While existing therapeutic strategies can alleviate PD symptoms, they cannot inhibit DA neuron loss. Herein, a tailor-made human serum albumin (HSA)-based selenium nanosystem (HSA/Se nanoparticles, HSA/Se NPs) to treat PD that can overcome the intestinal epithelial barrier (IEB) and blood-brain barrier (BBB) is described. HSA, a transporter for drug delivery, has superior biological characteristics that make it an ideal potential drug delivery substance. Findings reveal that HSA/Se NPs have lower toxicity and higher efficacy than other selenium species and the ability to overcome the IEB and BBB to enrich DA neurons, which then protect MN9D cells from MPP+-induced neurotoxicity and ameliorate both behavioral deficits and DA neuronal death in MPTP-model mice. Thus, a therapeutic drug delivery system composed of orally gavaged HSA/Se NPs for the treatment of PD is described.

Toxicity assessment of microcystin-leucine arginine in planarian Dugesia japonica

Microcystin-leucine arginine (MC-LR), a representative cyanobacterial toxin, poses an increasing and serious threat to aquatic ecosystems. Despite investigating its toxic effects in various organisms and cells, the toxicity to tissue regeneration and stem cells in vivo still needs to be explored. Planarians are ideal regeneration and toxicology research models and have profound implications in ecotoxicology evaluation. This study conducted a systemic toxicity evaluation of MC-LR, including morphological changes, growth, regeneration, and the underlying cellular and molecular changes after MC-LR exposure, which were investigated in planarians. The results showed that exposure to MC-LR led to time- and dose-dependent lethal morphological changes, tissue damage, degrowth, and delayed regeneration in planarians. Furthermore, MC-LR exposure disturbed the activities of antioxidants, including total superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione S-transferase, and total antioxidant capacity, leading to oxidative stress and DNA damage, and then reduced the number of dividing neoblasts and promoted apoptosis. The results demonstrated that oxidative stress and DNA damage induced by MC-LR exposure caused apoptosis. Excessive apoptosis and suppressed neoblast activity led to severe homeostasis imbalance. This study explores the underlying mechanism of MC-LR toxicity in planarians and provides a basis for the toxicity assessment of MC-LR to aquatic organisms and ecological risk evaluation.

Poly (ADP-Ribose) polymerase 1 and parthanatos in neurological diseases: From pathogenesis to therapeutic opportunities

Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) is the most extensively studied member of the PARP superfamily, with its primary function being the facilitation of DNA damage repair processes. Parthanatos is a type of regulated cell death cascade initiated by PARP-1 hyperactivation, which involves multiple subroutines, including the accumulation of ADP-ribose polymers (PAR), binding of PAR and apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF), release of AIF from the mitochondria, the translocation of the AIF/macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) complex, and massive MIF-mediated DNA fragmentation. Over the past few decades, the role of PARP-1 in central nervous system health and disease has received increasing attention. In this review, we discuss the biological functions of PARP-1 in neural cell proliferation and differentiation, memory formation, brain ageing, and epigenetic regulation. We then elaborate on the involvement of PARP-1 and PARP-1-dependant parthanatos in various neuropathological processes, such as oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, excitotoxicity, autophagy damage, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Additional highlight contains PARP-1's implications in the initiation, progression, and therapeutic opportunities for different neurological illnesses, including neurodegenerative diseases, stroke, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), multiple sclerosis (MS), epilepsy, and neuropathic pain (NP). Finally, emerging insights into the repurposing of PARP inhibitors for the management of neurological diseases are provided. This review aims to summarize the exciting advancements in the critical role of PARP-1 in neurological disorders, which may open new avenues for therapeutic options targeting PARP-1 or parthanatos.

The mechanism of LZ-8-mediated immune response in the mouse model of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is associated with microscopic changes in the brain, particularly substantia nigra (SN). Ganoderma lucidum immunoregulatory protein (rLZ-8) is might confer protective effects against PD. We developed a 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced murine model of PD and determined the effects of rLZ-8 on molecular and cellular components of SN and whole brain tissue. The levels of SOD, GSH-Px, p-JAK2 and p-STAT3 in the brain tissue and SN were downregulated, while IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α and MDA were upregulated. These effects were significantly reversed upon treatment rLZ-8. In summary, oxidative stress and inflammatory response in PD can be alleviated using rLZ-8.

Beneficial effects of a new neuroprotective compound in neuronal cells and MPTP-administered mouse model of Parkinson's disease

A new compound, a derivative of 3,4,5-trimethoxy-N-phenyl benzamide bearing an 8''-methylimidazopyridine moiety, is found to demonstrate neuroprotective effects by preventing cell death caused by oxidative stress. The compound possesses high solubility and metabolic stability, and inhibits MPTP-induced effects in vivo, indicating high potential as a therapeutic drug for Parkinson's disease.