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Leow KQ, Tonta MA, Lu J, Coleman HA, Parkington HC. Towards understanding sex differences in autism spectrum disorders. Brain Res 2024; 1833:148877. [PMID: 38513995 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2024.148877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social deficits, repetitive behaviours and lack of empathy. Its significant genetic heritability and potential comorbidities often lead to diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This review addresses the biological basis of ASD, focusing on the sex differences in gene expression and hormonal influences. ASD is more commonly diagnosed in males at a ratio of 4:1, indicating a potential oversight in female-specific ASD research and a risk of underdiagnosis in females. We consider how ASD manifests differently across sexes by exploring differential gene expression in female and male brains and consider how variations in steroid hormones influence ASD characteristics. Synaptic function, including excitation/inhibition ratio imbalance, is influenced by gene mutations and this is explored as a key factor in the cognitive and behavioural manifestations of ASD. We also discuss the role of micro RNAs (miRNAs) and highlight a novel mutation in miRNA-873, which affects a suite of key synaptic genes, neurexin, neuroligin, SHANK and post-synaptic density proteins, implicated in the pathology of ASD. Our review suggests that genetic predisposition, sex differences in brain gene expression, and hormonal factors significantly contribute to the presentation, identification and severity of ASD, necessitating sex-specific considerations in diagnosis and treatments. These findings advocate for personalized interventions to improve the outcomes for individuals with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Q Leow
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mary A Tonta
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jing Lu
- Tianjin Institute of Infectious Disease, Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, China
| | - Harold A Coleman
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helena C Parkington
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Victoria, Australia.
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2
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Li Z, Liu D, Wang G, Zheng Y, Chen L, Cheng Z, Zhang Z, Cai Q, Ge F, Fan Y, Guan X. METH exposure alters sperm DNA methylation in F0 mice and mPFC transcriptome in male F1 mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024; 241:897-911. [PMID: 38092953 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06516-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Methamphetamine (METH) exposure has toxicity in sperm epigenetic phenotype and increases the risk for developing addiction in their offspring. However, the underlying transgenerational mechanism remains unclear. OBJECTIVES The current study aims to investigate the profiles of sperm epigenetic modifications in male METH-exposed mice (F0) and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) transcriptome in their male first-generation offspring (F1). METHODS METH-related male F0 and F1 mice model was established to investigate the effects of paternal METH exposure on reproductive functions and sperm DNA methylation in F0 and mPFC transcriptomic profile in F1. During adulthood, F1 was subjected to a conditioned place preference (CPP) test to evaluate sensitivity to METH. The gene levels were verified with qPCR. RESULTS METH exposure obviously altered F0 sperms DNA methylated profile and male F1 mPFC transcriptomic profile, many of which being related to neuronal system and brain development. In METH-sired male F1, subthreshold dose of METH administration effectively elicited CPP, along with more mPFC activation. After qPCR verification, Sort1 and Shank2 were at higher levels in F0 sperm and F1 mPFC. CONCLUSIONS Our findings put new insights into paternal METH exposure-altered profiles of F0 sperm DNA methylation and male F1 mPFC transcriptomics. Several genes, such as Sort1 and Shank2, might be used as potential molecules for further research on the transgenerational vulnerability to drug addiction in offspring by paternal drug exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaosu Li
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Dekang Liu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Guanxiong Wang
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yanyan Zheng
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Liying Chen
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Zhen Cheng
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Zijing Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Qinglong Cai
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Feifei Ge
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yu Fan
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Xiaowei Guan
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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Guo B, Liu T, Choi S, Mao H, Wang W, Xi K, Jones C, Hartley ND, Feng D, Chen Q, Liu Y, Wimmer RD, Xie Y, Zhao N, Ou J, Arias-Garcia MA, Malhotra D, Liu Y, Lee S, Pasqualoni S, Kast RJ, Fleishman M, Halassa MM, Wu S, Fu Z. Restoring thalamocortical circuit dysfunction by correcting HCN channelopathy in Shank3 mutant mice. Cell Rep Med 2024:101534. [PMID: 38670100 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Thalamocortical (TC) circuits are essential for sensory information processing. Clinical and preclinical studies of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) have highlighted abnormal thalamic development and TC circuit dysfunction. However, mechanistic understanding of how TC dysfunction contributes to behavioral abnormalities in ASDs is limited. Here, our study on a Shank3 mouse model of ASD reveals TC neuron hyperexcitability with excessive burst firing and a temporal mismatch relationship with slow cortical rhythms during sleep. These TC electrophysiological alterations and the consequent sensory hypersensitivity and sleep fragmentation in Shank3 mutant mice are causally linked to HCN2 channelopathy. Restoring HCN2 function early in postnatal development via a viral approach or lamotrigine (LTG) ameliorates sensory and sleep problems. A retrospective case series also supports beneficial effects of LTG treatment on sensory behavior in ASD patients. Our study identifies a clinically relevant circuit mechanism and proposes a targeted molecular intervention for ASD-related behavioral impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baolin Guo
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China; Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Tiaotiao Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Soonwook Choi
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Honghui Mao
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Wenting Wang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Kaiwen Xi
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Carter Jones
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Nolan D Hartley
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Dayun Feng
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Qian Chen
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Yingying Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Ralf D Wimmer
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Yuqiao Xie
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Ningxia Zhao
- Xi'an TCM Hospital of Encephalopathy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Jianjun Ou
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, Changsha 410011, China
| | - Mario A Arias-Garcia
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Diya Malhotra
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Sihak Lee
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Sammuel Pasqualoni
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Ryan J Kast
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Morgan Fleishman
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Michael M Halassa
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Shengxi Wu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China.
| | - Zhanyan Fu
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
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Alasmari M, Alduais A, Qasem F. Language competency in autism: a scientometric review. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1338776. [PMID: 38596630 PMCID: PMC11003265 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1338776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The study of atypical language acquisition in children with, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is crucial for both practical and theoretical reasons. Understanding the course of language development in ASD can inform potential interventions and treatments while shedding light on the necessary conditions for language development in typically developing children. This scientometric review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the research landscape in this field, identifying trends, patterns, and knowledge gaps. The methods employed in this review comprise a systematic search of three major databases: Scopus (5,026 documents), Web of Science (WoS; 4,570 documents), and Lens (3,235 documents). The analysis includes bibliometric indicators such as knowledge production size by year, country, university, source, subject area, author, and citation. Scientometric indicators consist of burst detection, silhouette, clusters, citation, and co-occurrence of keywords. The analysis reveals clusters focusing on various aspects of language development in ASD, such as motor skills, parental communication strategies, cognitive processes, and genetics. Key clusters include the relationship between fine motor gestures and language usage patterns, the role of expressive language skills and maternal gesture use, and the effectiveness of online parent training modules for improving prelinguistic predictors. Other noteworthy clusters explore the importance of core language skills, the role of natural language input and syntactic complexity, and the genetic underpinnings of language abilities in high-functioning adults with ASD. In conclusion, this scientometric review highlights the top 10 clusters and their respective Silhouette values, providing valuable insights into language acquisition in ASD. These findings have important implications for guiding future research directions and informing the creation of targeted and effective interventions to support language acquisition in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Alasmari
- Department of English Language and Literature, College of Letters and Arts, University of Bisha, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Alduais
- Department of Human Sciences (Psychology), University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Fawaz Qasem
- Department of English Language and Literature, College of Letters and Arts, University of Bisha, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
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Juan CX, Mao Y, Han X, Qian HY, Chu KK. EGR1 Regulates SHANK3 Transcription at Different Stages of Brain Development. Neuroscience 2024; 540:27-37. [PMID: 38218401 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
The expression levels of SHANK3 are associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The dynamic changes in SHANK3 expression during different stages of brain development may impact the progression of ASD. However, no studies or detailed analyses exploring the upstream mechanisms that regulate SHANK3 expression have been reported. In this study, we employed immunofluorescence to examine the expression of SHANK3 in brain organoids at various stages. Our results revealed elevated levels of SHANK3 expression in brain-like organoids at Day 60. Additionally, we utilized bioinformatics software to predict and analyze the SHANK3 gene's transcription start site. Through the dual luciferase reporter gene technique, we identified core transcription elements within the SHANK3 promoter. Site-directed mutations were used to identify specific transcription sites of SHANK3. To determine the physical binding of potential transcription factors to the SHANK3 promoter, we employed electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). Our findings demonstrated that the transcription factor EGR1 regulates SHANK3 expression by binding to the transcription site of the SHANK3 promoter. Although this study did not investigate the pathological phenotypes of human brain organoids or animal model brains with EGR1 deficiency, which could potentially substantiate the findings observed for SHANK3 mutants, our findings provide valuable insights into the relationship between the transcription factor, EGR1, and SHANK3. This study contributes to the molecular understanding of ASD and offers potential foundations for precise targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Xia Juan
- Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210004, China; Child Mental Health Research Center, Affiliated Nanjing Brain Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Yan Mao
- Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Xiao Han
- Institute for Stem Cell and Neural Regeneration, School of Pharmacy, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Hua-Ying Qian
- Child Mental Health Research Center, Affiliated Nanjing Brain Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Kang-Kang Chu
- Child Mental Health Research Center, Affiliated Nanjing Brain Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.
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Severino L, Kim J, Nam MH, McHugh TJ. From synapses to circuits: What mouse models have taught us about how autism spectrum disorder impacts hippocampal function. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 158:105559. [PMID: 38246230 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts a variety of cognitive and behavioral domains. While a genetic component of ASD has been well-established, none of the numerous syndromic genes identified in humans accounts for more than 1% of the clinical patients. Due to this large number of target genes, numerous mouse models of the disorder have been generated. However, the focus on distinct brain circuits, behavioral phenotypes and diverse experimental approaches has made it difficult to synthesize the overwhelming number of model animal studies into concrete throughlines that connect the data across levels of investigation. Here we chose to focus on one circuit, the hippocampus, and one hypothesis, a shift in excitatory/inhibitory balance, to examine, from the level of the tripartite synapse up to the level of in vivo circuit activity, the key commonalities across disparate models that can illustrate a path towards a better mechanistic understanding of ASD's impact on hippocampal circuit function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandra Severino
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, South Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST-School, University of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jinhyun Kim
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, South Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST-School, University of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Min-Ho Nam
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, South Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST-School, University of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Thomas J McHugh
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, South Korea; Laboratory for Circuit and Behavioral Physiology, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako-shi Saitama, Japan.
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O'Connor M, Qiao H, Odamah K, Cerdeira PC, Man HY. Heterozygous Nexmif female mice demonstrate mosaic NEXMIF expression, autism-like behaviors, and abnormalities in dendritic arborization and synaptogenesis. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24703. [PMID: 38322873 PMCID: PMC10844029 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a strong genetic basis. ASDs are commonly characterized by impairments in language, restrictive and repetitive behaviors, and deficits in social interactions. Although ASD is a highly heterogeneous disease with many different genes implicated in its etiology, many ASD-associated genes converge on common cellular defects, such as aberrant neuronal morphology and synapse dysregulation. Our previous work revealed that, in mice, complete loss of the ASD-associated X-linked gene NEXMIF results in a reduction in dendritic complexity, a decrease in spine and synapse density, altered synaptic transmission, and ASD-like behaviors. Interestingly, human females of NEXMIF haploinsufficiency have recently been reported to demonstrate autistic features; however, the cellular and molecular basis for this haploinsufficiency-caused ASD remains unclear. Here we report that in the brains of Nexmif± female mice, NEXMIF shows a mosaic pattern in its expression in neurons. Heterozygous female mice demonstrate behavioral impairments similar to those of knockout male mice. In the mosaic mixture of neurons from Nexmif± mice, cells that lack NEXMIF have impairments in dendritic arborization and spine development. Remarkably, the NEXMIF-expressing neurons from Nexmif± mice also demonstrate similar defects in dendritic growth and spine formation. These findings establish a novel mouse model of NEXMIF haploinsufficiency and provide new insights into the pathogenesis of NEXMIF-dependent ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret O'Connor
- Department of Biology, Boston University, 5 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Hui Qiao
- Department of Biology, Boston University, 5 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - KathrynAnn Odamah
- Department of Biology, Boston University, 5 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | | | - Heng-Ye Man
- Department of Biology, Boston University, 5 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 East Concord St., Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Center for Systems Neuroscience, Boston University, 610 Commonwealth Ave, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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Gajre MP, Shah M, Pradhan SV, Aseri H. Examining the Impact of Group-Based Social Skills Intervention in Autistic Children Aged Eight to 15 Years. Cureus 2024; 16:e53376. [PMID: 38435203 PMCID: PMC10907971 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder, which poses challenges to social communication and behavior, particularly affecting social functioning. Individuals with ASD face significant social challenges, including difficulty understanding social cues and body language, limited ability to engage in reciprocal social interactions, and challenges with establishing empathy. A preference for routines and repetitive behaviors limits their ability to adapt to new or unexpected social situations. These problems tend to escalate during adolescence. These often cause distress to the individual as well as the caregivers. Group-based social skills interventions (GSSIs) are a widely used and effective modality for addressing core social impairments in children with autism. This study aims to assess the impact of GSSI on the broad age group of eight to 15 years, involving parents to enhance the transferability of children's social skills. Methods This was a single-arm interventional study where 30 verbal autistic children, aged eight to 15 years, with intelligence quotient (IQ) > 70 were enrolled after utilizing the Binet Kamat Test of Intelligence (BKT) to assess IQ and the Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism (ISAA) to grade severity of autism. The children received GSSI from interdisciplinary therapists for 12 sessions, on a weekly basis, lasting 90 minutes each for a period of three months. After each therapy session, parents received summaries of each session and were delegated reinforcing homework assignments to enable generalization and maintenance of the skills taught. Outcome measures were taken at three points in time by utilizing the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) and the parent-rated Social Responsiveness Scale 2 (p-SRS-2): T1: pre-therapy at the time of enrolment; T2: immediately post-therapy at the end of three months of training; and T3: long-term follow-up, three months after the end of training. Results Mean SCQ scores were as follows: T1 = 21.87, T2 = 18.57, and T3 = 18.57 (p = 0.000). This progressive decline at T1, T2, and T3 indicated a decreasing trend in the severity of difficulties in the social communication domain. Mean p-SRS-2 scores were as follows: T1 = 73.00, T2 = 64.57, and T3 = 64.30 (p < 0.0001). This declining trend at T1, T2, and T3 suggested a statistically significant decrease in the severity of difficulties faced in various social aspects tested by the p-SRS-2, i.e., social awareness, social cognition, social communication, and social motivation, along with a reduction in restricted interests and repetitive behaviors (RRBs). Very strong correlation coefficients were obtained for SCQ scores (T1-T2 = 0.921, T1-T3 = 0.921, and T2-T3 = 1.000), as well as for p-SRS-2 scores (T1-T2 = 0.743, T1-T3 = 0.746, and T2-T3 = 0.989), which reinforced the statistical significance of the data. Conclusion GSSI is an effective parent-assisted intervention for adolescents with ASD, with effects lasting up to three months post-intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona P Gajre
- Department of Pediatrics, Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College and General Hospital, Mumbai, IND
| | - Mansi Shah
- Department of Pediatrics, Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College and General Hospital, Mumbai, IND
| | - Shreeya V Pradhan
- Department of Pediatrics, Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College and General Hospital, Mumbai, IND
| | - Harshna Aseri
- Department of Pediatrics, Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College and General Hospital, Mumbai, IND
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Szabó J, Mlynár M, Feješ A, Renczés E, Borbélyová V, Ostatníková D, Celec P. Intranasal oxytocin in a genetic animal model of autism. Mol Psychiatry 2023:10.1038/s41380-023-02330-6. [PMID: 38102481 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02330-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders mainly characterized by deficient sociability and repetitive behaviors. Effective treatment for the core symptoms of ASD is still lacking. Behavioral interventions show limited effectiveness, while pharmacotherapy focuses on the amelioration of secondary symptomatology. Oxytocin (OXT) is a neuropeptide known for its prosocial impact, making it a candidate drug for ASD treatment. Its alleviating effect has been and still is widely researched, but outcomes reported by clinical studies are ambiguous. We examined the effect of daily intranasal OXT (0.8 IU/kg) administration for 4 weeks on the ASD-like phenotype in Shank3-/- adult mice. Animals treated with OXT spent twice as much time interacting with the social partner as early as after 2 weeks of treatment. Furthermore, OXT-treated mice exhibited reduced explorative behavior by 50%, after 4 weeks of treatment, and a 30% reduction in repetitive behavior, 4 weeks after treatment termination. One-fold higher sociability and 30% reduced exploration due to OXT lasted up to 4 weeks following the treatment termination. However, social disinterest was elevated by roughly 10% as well, indicating a form of social ambivalence. Obtained results support the therapeutic potential of intranasally administered OXT in alleviating social shortfalls in a genetic model of ASD. Subsequent research is necessary to elucidate the benefits and risks of the long-term OXT administration, as well as its applicability in other ASD models and the potential treatment effect on social communication, which was not measured in the present study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Szabó
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Matúš Mlynár
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Andrej Feješ
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Emese Renczés
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Veronika Borbélyová
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Daniela Ostatníková
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Peter Celec
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia.
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia.
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Chang HW, Hsu MJ, Chien LN, Chi NF, Yu MC, Chen HC, Lin YF, Hu CJ. Role of the Autism Risk Gene Shank3 in the Development of Atherosclerosis: Insights from Big Data and Mechanistic Analyses. Cells 2023; 12:2546. [PMID: 37947623 PMCID: PMC10647789 DOI: 10.3390/cells12212546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased medical attention is needed as the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) rises. Both cardiovascular disorder (CVD) and hyperlipidemia are closely associated with adult ASD. Shank3 plays a key genetic role in ASD. We hypothesized that Shank3 contributes to CVD development in young adults with ASD. In this study, we investigated whether Shank3 facilitates the development of atherosclerosis. Using Gene Set Enrichment Analysis software (Version No.: GSEA-4.0.3), we analyzed the data obtained from Shank3 knockout mice (Gene Expression Omnibus database), a human population-based study cohort (from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database), and a Shank3 knockdown cellular model. Shank3 knockout upregulated the expression of genes of cholesterol homeostasis and fatty acid metabolism but downregulated the expression of genes associated with inflammatory responses. Individuals with autism had higher risks of hyperlipidemia (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR): 1.39; p < 0.001), major adverse cardiac events (aHR: 2.67; p < 0.001), and stroke (aHR: 3.55; p < 0.001) than age- and sex-matched individuals without autism did. Shank3 downregulation suppressed tumor necrosis factor-α-induced fatty acid synthase expression; vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 expression; and downstream signaling pathways involving p38, Jun N-terminal kinase, and nuclear factor-κB. Thus, Shank3 may influence the development of early-onset atherosclerosis and CVD in ASD. Furthermore, regulating Shank3 expression may reduce inflammation-related disorders, such as atherosclerosis, by inhibiting tumor necrosis factor-alpha-mediated inflammatory cascades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiu-Wen Chang
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan;
- Department of Neurology, Sijhih Cathay General Hospital, New Taipei City 22174, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Jen Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan;
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan (H.-C.C.)
| | - Li-Nien Chien
- Institute of Health and Welfare Policy, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan;
| | - Nai-Fang Chi
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11267, Taiwan;
| | - Meng-Chieh Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan (H.-C.C.)
| | - Hsiu-Chen Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan (H.-C.C.)
| | - Yuan-Feng Lin
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan;
- Cell Physiology and Molecular Image Research Center, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11696, Taiwan
| | - Chaur-Jong Hu
- Department of Neurology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Taipei Neuroscience Institute, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
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11
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Huang C, Voglewede MM, Ozsen EN, Wang H, Zhang H. SHANK3 Mutations Associated with Autism and Schizophrenia Lead to Shared and Distinct Changes in Dendritic Spine Dynamics in the Developing Mouse Brain. Neuroscience 2023; 528:1-11. [PMID: 37532012 PMCID: PMC10528879 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2023.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and schizophrenia are distinct neurodevelopmental disorders that share certain symptoms and genetic components. Both disorders show abnormalities in dendritic spines, which are the main sites of excitatory synaptic inputs. Recent studies have identified the synaptic scaffolding protein Shank3 as a leading candidate gene for both disorders. Mutations in the SHANK3 gene have been linked to both ASD and schizophrenia; however, how patient-derived mutations affect the structural plasticity of dendritic spines during brain development is unknown. Here we use live two photon in vivo imaging to examine dendritic spine structural plasticity in mice with SHANK3 mutations associated with ASD and schizophrenia. We identified shared and distinct phenotypes in dendritic spine morphogenesis and plasticity in the ASD-associated InsG3680 mutant mice and the schizophrenia-associated R1117X mutant mice. No significant changes in dendritic arborization were observed in either mutant, raising the possibility that synaptic dysregulation may be a key contributor to the behavioral defects previously reported in these mice. These findings shed light on how patient-linked mutations in SHANK3 affect dendritic spine dynamics in the developing brain, which provides insight into the synaptic basis for the distinct phenotypes observed in ASD and schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengyu Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mikayla M Voglewede
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Elif Naz Ozsen
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China; Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, United States.
| | - Huaye Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, United States.
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12
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Srivastava S, Sahin M, Buxbaum JD, Berry-Kravis E, Soorya LV, Thurm A, Bernstein JA, Asante-Otoo A, Bennett WE, Betancur C, Brickhouse TH, Passos Bueno MR, Chopra M, Christensen CK, Cully JL, Dies K, Friedman K, Gummere B, Holder JL, Jimenez-Gomez A, Kerins CA, Khan O, Kohlenberg T, Lacro RV, Levy LA, Levy T, Linnehan D, Loth E, Moshiree B, Neumeyer A, Paul SM, Phelan K, Persico A, Rapaport R, Rogers C, Saland J, Sethuram S, Shapiro J, Tarr PI, White KM, Wickstrom J, Williams KM, Winrow D, Wishart B, Kolevzon A. Updated consensus guidelines on the management of Phelan-McDermid syndrome. Am J Med Genet A 2023; 191:2015-2044. [PMID: 37392087 PMCID: PMC10524678 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.63312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is a genetic condition caused by SHANK3 haploinsufficiency and characterized by a wide range of neurodevelopmental and systemic manifestations. The first practice parameters for assessment and monitoring in individuals with PMS were published in 2014; recently, knowledge about PMS has grown significantly based on data from longitudinal phenotyping studies and large-scale genotype-phenotype investigations. The objective of these updated clinical management guidelines was to: (1) reflect the latest in knowledge in PMS and (2) provide guidance for clinicians, researchers, and the general community. A taskforce was established with clinical experts in PMS and representatives from the parent community. Experts joined subgroups based on their areas of specialty, including genetics, neurology, neurodevelopment, gastroenterology, primary care, physiatry, nephrology, endocrinology, cardiology, gynecology, and dentistry. Taskforce members convened regularly between 2021 and 2022 and produced specialty-specific guidelines based on iterative feedback and discussion. Taskforce leaders then established consensus within their respective specialty group and harmonized the guidelines. The knowledge gained over the past decade allows for improved guidelines to assess and monitor individuals with PMS. Since there is limited evidence specific to PMS, intervention mostly follows general guidelines for treating individuals with developmental disorders. Significant evidence has been amassed to guide the management of comorbid neuropsychiatric conditions in PMS, albeit mainly from caregiver report and the experience of clinical experts. These updated consensus guidelines on the management of PMS represent an advance for the field and will improve care in the community. Several areas for future research are also highlighted and will contribute to subsequent updates with more refined and specific recommendations as new knowledge accumulates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddharth Srivastava
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mustafa Sahin
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joseph D. Buxbaum
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elizabeth Berry-Kravis
- Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Audrey Thurm
- Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Phenotyping Service, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - Afua Asante-Otoo
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, NIH Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - William E. Bennett
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Catalina Betancur
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Tegwyn H. Brickhouse
- Department of Dental Public Health & Policy, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Maria Rita Passos Bueno
- Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, Centro de Estudos do Genoma Humano e Células-tronco, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Maya Chopra
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Celanie K. Christensen
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Riley Children’s Health, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of Neurology, Riley Children’s Health, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Cully
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Division of Dentistry and Orthodontics, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kira Dies
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kate Friedman
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - J. Lloyd Holder
- Department of Pediatrics-Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Carolyn A. Kerins
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Texas A&M University, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Omar Khan
- National Institute of Neurological Disease and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - Ronald V. Lacro
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Tess Levy
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Eva Loth
- Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Baharak Moshiree
- Department of Medicine, Wake Forest/Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Ann Neumeyer
- Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital, Lexington MA, USA, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
| | - Scott M. Paul
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, NIH Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Katy Phelan
- Genetics Laboratory, Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute, Fort Myers, FL, USA
| | - Antonio Persico
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Robert Rapaport
- Department of Pediatrics, Kravis Children’s Hospital, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Jeffrey Saland
- Department of Pediatrics, Kravis Children’s Hospital, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Swathi Sethuram
- Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Phillip I. Tarr
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kerry M. White
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Riley Children’s Health, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Riley Children’s Health, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Jordan Wickstrom
- Sinai Rehabilitation Center, Lifebridge Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kent M. Williams
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University School of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | | | - Alexander Kolevzon
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Kravis Children’s Hospital, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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13
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Shorey-Kendrick LE, Roberts VHJ, D'Mello RJ, Sullivan EL, Murphy SK, Mccarty OJT, Schust DJ, Hedges JC, Mitchell AJ, Terrobias JJD, Easley CA, Spindel ER, Lo JO. Prenatal delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol exposure is associated with changes in rhesus macaque DNA methylation enriched for autism genes. Clin Epigenetics 2023; 15:104. [PMID: 37415206 PMCID: PMC10324248 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-023-01519-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the growing availability of cannabis and the popularization of additional routes of cannabis use beyond smoking, including edibles, the prevalence of cannabis use in pregnancy is rapidly increasing. However, the potential effects of prenatal cannabis use on fetal developmental programming remain unknown. RESULTS We designed this study to determine whether the use of edible cannabis during pregnancy is deleterious to the fetal and placental epigenome. Pregnant rhesus macaques consumed a daily edible containing either delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (2.5 mg/7 kg/day) or placebo. DNA methylation was measured in 5 tissues collected at cesarean delivery (placenta, lung, cerebellum, prefrontal cortex, and right ventricle of the heart) using the Illumina MethylationEPIC platform and filtering for probes previously validated in rhesus macaque. In utero exposure to THC was associated with differential methylation at 581 CpGs, with 573 (98%) identified in placenta. Loci differentially methylated with THC were enriched for candidate autism spectrum disorder (ASD) genes from the Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI) database in all tissues. The placenta demonstrated greatest SFARI gene enrichment, including genes differentially methylated in placentas from a prospective ASD study. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our findings reveal that prenatal THC exposure alters placental and fetal DNA methylation at genes involved in neurobehavioral development that may influence longer-term offspring outcomes. The data from this study add to the limited existing literature to help guide patient counseling and public health polices focused on prenatal cannabis use in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyndsey E Shorey-Kendrick
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA.
| | - Victoria H J Roberts
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Rahul J D'Mello
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Elinor L Sullivan
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Susan K Murphy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
| | - Owen J T Mccarty
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Danny J Schust
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
| | - Jason C Hedges
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
- Department of Urology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - A J Mitchell
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Jose Juanito D Terrobias
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Charles A Easley
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia College of Public Health, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Eliot R Spindel
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Jamie O Lo
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
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14
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Kareklas K, Teles MC, Dreosti E, Oliveira RF. Autism-associated gene shank3 is necessary for social contagion in zebrafish. Mol Autism 2023; 14:23. [PMID: 37391856 PMCID: PMC10311831 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-023-00555-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Animal models enable targeting autism-associated genes, such as the shank3 gene, to assess their impact on behavioural phenotypes. However, this is often limited to simple behaviours relevant for social interaction. Social contagion is a complex phenotype forming the basis of human empathic behaviour and involves attention to the behaviour of others for recognizing and sharing their emotional or affective state. Thus, it is a form of social communication, which constitutes the most common developmental impairment across autism spectrum disorders (ASD). METHODS Here we describe the development of a zebrafish model that identifies the neurocognitive mechanisms by which shank3 mutation drives deficits in social contagion. We used a CRISPR-Cas9 technique to generate mutations to the shank3a gene, a zebrafish paralogue found to present greater orthology and functional conservation relative to the human gene. Mutants were first compared to wild types during a two-phase protocol that involves the observation of two conflicting states, distress and neutral, and the later recall and discrimination of others when no longer presenting such differences. Then, the whole-brain expression of different neuroplasticity markers was compared between genotypes and their contribution to cluster-specific phenotypic variation was assessed. RESULTS The shank3 mutation markedly reduced social contagion via deficits in attention contributing to difficulties in recognising affective states. Also, the mutation changed the expression of neuronal plasticity genes. However, only downregulated neuroligins clustered with shank3a expression under a combined synaptogenesis component that contributed specifically to variation in attention. LIMITATIONS While zebrafish are extremely useful in identifying the role of shank3 mutations to composite social behaviour, they are unlikely to represent the full complexity of socio-cognitive and communication deficits presented by human ASD pathology. Moreover, zebrafish cannot represent the scaling up of these deficits to higher-order empathic and prosocial phenotypes seen in humans. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate a causal link between the zebrafish orthologue of an ASD-associated gene and the attentional control of affect recognition and consequent social contagion. This models autistic affect-communication pathology in zebrafish and reveals a genetic attention-deficit mechanism, addressing the ongoing debate for such mechanisms accounting for emotion recognition difficulties in autistic individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyriacos Kareklas
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, R. Q.ta Grande 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Magda C Teles
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, R. Q.ta Grande 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal
- ISPA - Instituto Universitário, Rua Jardim do Tabaco 34, 1149-041, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Elena Dreosti
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rui F Oliveira
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, R. Q.ta Grande 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal.
- ISPA - Instituto Universitário, Rua Jardim do Tabaco 34, 1149-041, Lisbon, Portugal.
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15
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Maurer JJ, Choi A, An I, Sathi N, Chung S. Sleep disturbances in autism spectrum disorder: Animal models, neural mechanisms, and therapeutics. Neurobiol Sleep Circadian Rhythms 2023; 14:100095. [PMID: 37188242 PMCID: PMC10176270 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbscr.2023.100095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Sleep is crucial for brain development. Sleep disturbances are prevalent in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Strikingly, these sleep problems are positively correlated with the severity of ASD core symptoms such as deficits in social skills and stereotypic behavior, indicating that sleep problems and the behavioral characteristics of ASD may be related. In this review, we will discuss sleep disturbances in children with ASD and highlight mouse models to study sleep disturbances and behavioral phenotypes in ASD. In addition, we will review neuromodulators controlling sleep and wakefulness and how these neuromodulatory systems are disrupted in animal models and patients with ASD. Lastly, we will address how the therapeutic interventions for patients with ASD improve various aspects of sleep. Together, gaining mechanistic insights into the neural mechanisms underlying sleep disturbances in children with ASD will help us to develop better therapeutic interventions.
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16
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Damiani F, Cornuti S, Tognini P. The gut-brain connection: Exploring the influence of the gut microbiota on neuroplasticity and neurodevelopmental disorders. Neuropharmacology 2023; 231:109491. [PMID: 36924923 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Neuroplasticity refers to the ability of brain circuits to reorganize and change the properties of the network, resulting in alterations in brain function and behavior. It is traditionally believed that neuroplasticity is influenced by external stimuli, learning, and experience. Intriguingly, there is new evidence suggesting that endogenous signals from the body's periphery may play a role. The gut microbiota, a diverse community of microorganisms living in harmony with their host, may be able to influence plasticity through its modulation of the gut-brain axis. Interestingly, the maturation of the gut microbiota coincides with critical periods of neurodevelopment, during which neural circuits are highly plastic and potentially vulnerable. As such, dysbiosis (an imbalance in the gut microbiota composition) during early life may contribute to the disruption of normal developmental trajectories, leading to neurodevelopmental disorders. This review aims to examine the ways in which the gut microbiota can affect neuroplasticity. It will also discuss recent research linking gastrointestinal issues and bacterial dysbiosis to various neurodevelopmental disorders and their potential impact on neurological outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Cornuti
- Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Tognini
- Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy; Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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17
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Wang J, Wei S, Zhang J, Wang H. Association between RIT2 rs16976358 Polymorphism and Autism Spectrum Disorder in Asian Populations: A Meta-analysis. Biomed Res Int 2023; 2023:8886927. [PMID: 36820223 DOI: 10.1155/2023/8886927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Background Recent studies have shown that Ras-like without CAAX2 (RIT2) polymorphism is a susceptible factor for Parkinson's disease (PD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). SNP rs12456492 and rs16976358 show the emerging evidence of increased risk of PD and ASD, respectively. A meta-analysis examining the relationship between rs12456492 and PD was reported, but the association between rs16976358 and ASD has not been investigated. Methods We searched literature from the databases PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, EBSCOhost, OVID, Web of Science, and Wiley up to February 2021. Three studies including 1160 ASD cases and 1367 controls were eventually enrolled in the meta-analysis based on strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results All genetics models indicate a significant association between rs16976358 polymorphism and ASD susceptibility (C vs. T: p = 0.001; CC vs. TT: p = 0.001; CT vs. TT: p = 0.009; CC+CT vs. TT: p = 0.001; CC vs. CT+TT: p = 0.001; TT+CC vs. CT: p = 0.013). The results of sensitivity analysis and publication bias of Begg's and Egger's tests were stable in the models of allele (C vs. T), codominant (CC vs. TT), dominant (CC+CT vs. TT), and recessive (CC vs. CT+TT). Conclusions Our meta-analysis exhibits that the allele C, CC, and CT genotyping of rs16976358 suggest the risk for ASD, but additional studies using a large sample size and ethnically diverse populations need to be included in the future.
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18
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Huang M, Qi Q, Xu T. Targeting Shank3 deficiency and paresthesia in autism spectrum disorder: A brief review. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1128974. [PMID: 36846568 PMCID: PMC9948097 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1128974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) includes a group of multifactorial neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impaired social communication, social interaction, and repetitive behaviors. Several studies have shown an association between cases of ASD and mutations in the genes of SH3 and multiple ankyrin repeat domain protein 3 (SHANK3). These genes encode many cell adhesion molecules, scaffold proteins, and proteins involved in synaptic transcription, protein synthesis, and degradation. They have a profound impact on all aspects of synaptic transmission and plasticity, including synapse formation and degeneration, suggesting that the pathogenesis of ASD may be partially attributable to synaptic dysfunction. In this review, we summarize the mechanism of synapses related to Shank3 in ASD. We also discuss the molecular, cellular, and functional studies of experimental models of ASD and current autism treatment methods targeting related proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China,Department of Anesthesiology, Suzhou Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Qi Qi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China,Department of Anesthesiology, Suzhou Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Tao Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China,Department of Anesthesiology, Suzhou Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Suzhou, China,*Correspondence: Tao Xu,
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19
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Ryan NM, Heron EA. Evidence for parent-of-origin effects in autism spectrum disorder: a narrative review. J Appl Genet 2023; 64:303-317. [PMID: 36710277 PMCID: PMC10076404 DOI: 10.1007/s13353-022-00742-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous group of early-onset neurodevelopmental disorders known to be highly heritable with a complex genetic architecture. Abnormal brain developmental trajectories that impact synaptic functioning, excitation-inhibition balance and brain connectivity are now understood to play a central role in ASD. Ongoing efforts to identify the genetic underpinnings still prove challenging, in part due to phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity.This review focuses on parent-of-origin effects (POEs), where the phenotypic effect of an allele depends on its parental origin. POEs include genomic imprinting, transgenerational effects, mitochondrial DNA, sex chromosomes and mutational transmission bias. The motivation for investigating these mechanisms in ASD has been driven by their known impacts on early brain development and brain functioning, in particular for the most well-documented POE, genomic imprinting. Moreover, imprinting is implicated in syndromes such as Angelman and Prader-Willi, which frequently share comorbid symptoms with ASD. In addition to other regions in the genome, this comprehensive review highlights the 15q11-q13 and 7q chromosomal regions as well as the mitochondrial DNA as harbouring the majority of currently identified POEs in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niamh M Ryan
- Neuropsychiatric Genetics Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Elizabeth A Heron
- Neuropsychiatric Genetics Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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20
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Breen MS, Fan X, Levy T, Pollak RM, Collins B, Osman A, Tocheva AS, Sahin M, Berry-Kravis E, Soorya L, Thurm A, Powell CM, Bernstein JA, Kolevzon A, Buxbaum JD. Large 22q13.3 deletions perturb peripheral transcriptomic and metabolomic profiles in Phelan-McDermid syndrome. HGG Adv 2023; 4:100145. [PMID: 36276299 PMCID: PMC9579712 DOI: 10.1016/j.xhgg.2022.100145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused at least in part by haploinsufficiency of the SHANK3 gene, due to sequence variants in SHANK3 or subtelomeric 22q13.3 deletions. Phenotypic differences have been reported between PMS participants carrying small "class I" mutations and large "class II" mutations; however, the molecular perturbations underlying these divergent phenotypes remain obscure. Using peripheral blood transcriptome and serum metabolome profiling, we examined the molecular perturbations in the peripheral circulation associated with a full spectrum of PMS genotypes spanning class I (n = 37) and class II mutations (n = 39). Transcriptomic data revealed 52 genes with blood expression profiles that tightly scale with 22q.13.3 deletion size. Furthermore, we uncover 208 underexpressed genes in PMS participants with class II mutations, which were unchanged in class I mutations. These genes were not linked to 22q13.3 and were strongly enriched for glycosphingolipid metabolism, NCAM1 interactions, and cytotoxic natural killer (NK) immune cell signatures. In silico predictions estimated a reduction in CD56+ CD16- NK cell proportions in class II mutations, which was validated by mass cytometry time of flight. Global metabolomics profiling identified 24 metabolites that were significantly altered in PMS participants with class II mutations and confirmed a general reduction in sphingolipid metabolism. Collectively, these results provide new evidence linking PMS participants carrying class II mutations with decreased expression of cytotoxic cell signatures, reduced relative proportions of NK cells, and lower sphingolipid metabolism. These findings highlight alternative avenues for therapeutic development and offer new mechanistic insights supporting genotype-to-phenotype associations in PMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Breen
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Mindich Child Health and Development Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Xuanjia Fan
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tess Levy
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rebecca M Pollak
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brett Collins
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Aya Osman
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anna S Tocheva
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mustafa Sahin
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center and F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Berry-Kravis
- Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Latha Soorya
- Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Audrey Thurm
- Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Phenotyping Service, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Craig M Powell
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA.,Civitan International Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Jonathan A Bernstein
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Alexander Kolevzon
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joseph D Buxbaum
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Mindich Child Health and Development Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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21
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Xiao L, Jiang S, Wang Y, Gao C, Liu C, Huo X, Li W, Guo B, Wang C, Sun Y, Wang A, Feng Y, Wang F, Sun T. Continuous high-frequency deep brain stimulation of the anterior insula modulates autism-like behavior in a valproic acid-induced rat model. J Transl Med 2022; 20:570. [PMID: 36474209 PMCID: PMC9724311 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03787-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Until now, the treatment of patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remain a difficult problem. The insula is involved in empathy and sensorimotor integration, which are often impaired in individuals with ASD. Deep brain stimulation, modulating neuronal activity in specific brain circuits, has recently been considered as a promising intervention for neuropsychiatric disorders. Valproic acid (VPA) is a potential teratogenic agent, and prenatal exposure can cause autism-like symptoms including repetitive behaviors and defective sociability. Herein, we investigated the effects of continuous high-frequency deep brain stimulation in the anterior insula of rats exposed to VPA and explored cognitive functions, behavior, and molecular proteins connected to autism spectrum disorder. METHODS VPA-exposed offspring were bilaterally implanted with electrodes in the anterior insula (Day 0) with a recovery period of 1 week. (Day 0-7). High-frequency deep brain stimulation was applied from days 11 to 29. Three behavioral tests, including three-chamber social interaction test, were performed on days 7, 13, 18, 25 and 36, and several rats were used for analysis of immediate early genes and proteomic after deep brain stimulation intervention. Meanwhile, animals were subjected to a 20 day spatial learning and cognitive rigidity test using IntelliCage on day 11. RESULTS Deep brain stimulation improved the sociability and social novelty preference at day 18 prior to those at day 13, and the improvement has reached the upper limit compared to day 25. As for repetitive/stereotypic-like behavior, self- grooming time were reduced at day 18 and reached the upper limit, and the numbers of burried marbles were reduced at day 13 prior to those at day 18 and day 25. The improvements of sociability and social novelty preference were persistent after the stimulation had ceased. Spatial learning ability and cognitive rigidity were unaffected. We identified 35 proteins in the anterior insula, some of which were intimately linked to autism, and their expression levels were reversed upon administration of deep brain stimulation. CONCLUSIONS Autism-like behavior was ameliorated and autism-related proteins were reversed in the insula by deep brain stimulation intervention, these findings reveal that the insula may be a potential target for DBS in the treatment of autism, which provide a theoretical basis for its clinical application., although future studies are still warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lifei Xiao
- grid.412194.b0000 0004 1761 9803Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Incubation Base of National Key Laboratory, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750000 China ,grid.413385.80000 0004 1799 1445Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750000 China
| | - Shucai Jiang
- grid.416966.a0000 0004 1758 1470Department of Neurosurgery, Weifang People’s Hospital, Weifang, 261000 China
| | - Yangyang Wang
- grid.412194.b0000 0004 1761 9803Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Incubation Base of National Key Laboratory, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750000 China
| | - Caibin Gao
- grid.413385.80000 0004 1799 1445Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750000 China
| | - Cuicui Liu
- grid.477991.5Department of Otolaryngology and Head Surgery, The First People’s Hospital of Yinchuan, Yinchuan, 750000 China
| | - Xianhao Huo
- grid.412194.b0000 0004 1761 9803Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Incubation Base of National Key Laboratory, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750000 China ,grid.413385.80000 0004 1799 1445Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750000 China
| | - Wenchao Li
- grid.412194.b0000 0004 1761 9803Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Incubation Base of National Key Laboratory, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750000 China
| | - Baorui Guo
- grid.440288.20000 0004 1758 0451Department of Neurosurgery, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, 710000 China
| | - Chaofan Wang
- grid.412194.b0000 0004 1761 9803Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Incubation Base of National Key Laboratory, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750000 China
| | - Yu Sun
- grid.412194.b0000 0004 1761 9803Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Incubation Base of National Key Laboratory, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750000 China
| | - Anni Wang
- grid.412194.b0000 0004 1761 9803Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Incubation Base of National Key Laboratory, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750000 China
| | - Yan Feng
- grid.412194.b0000 0004 1761 9803Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Incubation Base of National Key Laboratory, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750000 China
| | - Feng Wang
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XDepartment of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310000 China
| | - Tao Sun
- grid.412194.b0000 0004 1761 9803Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Incubation Base of National Key Laboratory, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750000 China ,grid.413385.80000 0004 1799 1445Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750000 China
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22
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Xu D, Meng Y, An S, Meng W, Li H, Zhang W, Xue Y, Lan X, Wang X, Li M, Zhang X, Zhihao Z, Zhao Y, Yang H, Zhang C, Zhang R, Zhen Z. Swimming exercise is a promising early intervention for autism-like behavior in Shank3 deletion rats. CNS Neurosci Ther 2022; 29:78-90. [PMID: 36221783 PMCID: PMC9804047 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION SHANK3 is an important excitatory postsynaptic scaffold protein, and its mutations lead to genetic cause of neurodevelopmental diseases including autism spectrum disorders (ASD), Philan McDermid syndrome (PMS), and intellectual disability (ID). Early prevention and treatment are important for Shank3 gene mutation disease. Swimming has been proven to have a positive effect on neurodegenerative diseases. METHODS Shank3 gene exon 11-21 knockout rats were intervened by a 40 min/day, 5 day/week for 8-week protocol. After the intervention, the rats were tested to behavioral measures such as learning and memory, and the volume and H-spectrum of the brain were measured using MRI; hippocampal dendritic spines were measured using Golgi staining and laser confocal. RESULTS The results showed that Shank3-deficient rats had significant deficits in social memory, object recognition, and water maze learning decreased hippocampal volume and number of neurons, and lower levels of related scaffold proteins and receptor proteins were found in Shank3-deficient rats. CONCLUSION It is suggested that early swimming exercise has a positive effect on Shank3 gene-deficient rats, which provides a new therapeutic strategy for the prevention and recovery of neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Xu
- College of P.E and SportsBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina,Sports and Health Editorial OfficePeople's education pressBeijingChina
| | - Yunchen Meng
- Department of P.E.China University of Mining and Technology‐BeijingBeijingChina
| | - Shasha An
- College of P.E and SportsBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Wenshu Meng
- College of Life SciencesBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Hanran Li
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences and Department of PsychologyUniversity of MacauTaipaMacau
| | - Weinan Zhang
- College of P.E and SportsBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Yaqi Xue
- College of P.E and SportsBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Xinyu Lan
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical SciencesPeking UniversityBeijingChina,Neuroscience Research InstitutePeking UniversityBeijingChina,Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health and Family Planning CommissionPeking UniversityBeijingChina,Autism Research Center of Peking University Health Science CenterBeijingChina
| | - Xiaoxi Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and MoxibustionChina Academy of Chinese Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Mingjuan Li
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical SciencesPeking UniversityBeijingChina,Neuroscience Research InstitutePeking UniversityBeijingChina,Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health and Family Planning CommissionPeking UniversityBeijingChina,Autism Research Center of Peking University Health Science CenterBeijingChina
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- College of P.E and SportsBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Zhang Zhihao
- College of P.E and SportsBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Yu Zhao
- College of P.E and SportsBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Haodong Yang
- College of P.E and SportsBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Chen Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Regeneration and Repair, Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain ProtectionCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Rong Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical SciencesPeking UniversityBeijingChina,Neuroscience Research InstitutePeking UniversityBeijingChina,Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health and Family Planning CommissionPeking UniversityBeijingChina,Autism Research Center of Peking University Health Science CenterBeijingChina,Department of Integration of Chinese and Western MedicineSchool of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Zhiping Zhen
- College of P.E and SportsBeijing Normal UniversityBeijingChina
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23
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Fischer I, Shohat S, Levy G, Bar E, Trangle SS, Efrati S, Barak B. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Alleviates Social Behavior Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation in a Mouse Model for Autism Spectrum Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:11077. [PMID: 36232395 PMCID: PMC9570008 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a multifactorial neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) characterized by impaired social communication and repetitive behavior, among other symptoms. ASD is highly heritable, with SHANK3 being one of the high-risk genes for ASD. In recent years, knowledge has been growing regarding the neuroplasticity effect induced by hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) and its potential use for ASD. Here, we characterized the effect of HBOT on a mouse model for ASD with the human genetic condition of InsG3680 mutation in the Shank3 gene. As compared to placebo, HBOT improved social behavior and reduced neuroinflammation in the cortex of the InsG3680(+/+) mice. Specifically, HBOT induced upregulation of Insulin-like growth factor 1 (Igf1) expression levels and reduced the number of Iba1-positive cells in the mouse model for ASD compared to placebo control. Together, our research suggests that HBOT has the potential to improve the clinical outcome of ASD by ameliorating some of the core pathophysiological processes responsible for the development of the disorder.
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24
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Fortier AV, Meisner OC, Nair AR, Chang SWC. Prefrontal Circuits guiding Social Preference: Implications in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 141:104803. [PMID: 35908593 PMCID: PMC10122914 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Although Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is increasing in diagnostic prevalence, treatment options are inadequate largely due to limited understanding of ASD's underlying neural mechanisms. Contributing to difficulties in treatment development is the vast heterogeneity of ASD, from physiological causes to clinical presentations. Recent studies suggest that distinct genetic and neurological alterations may converge onto similar underlying neural circuits. Therefore, an improved understanding of neural circuit-level dysfunction in ASD may be a more productive path to developing broader treatments that are effective across a greater spectrum of ASD. Given the social preference behavioral deficits commonly seen in ASD, dysfunction in circuits mediating social preference may contribute to the atypical development of social cognition. We discuss some of the animal models used to study ASD and examine the function and effects of dysregulation of the social preference circuits, notably the medial prefrontal cortex-amygdala and the medial prefrontal cortex-nucleus accumbens circuits, in these animal models. Using the common circuits underlying similar behavioral disruptions of social preference behaviors as an example, we highlight the importance of identifying disruption in convergent circuits to improve the translational success of animal model research for ASD treatment development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail V Fortier
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Olivia C Meisner
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Amrita R Nair
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Steve W C Chang
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Kavli Institute for Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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25
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Serrada-Tejeda S, Martínez-Piédrola RM, Máximo-Bocanegra N, Sánchez-Herrera-Baeza P, Pérez-de-Heredia-Torres M. Descriptive Analysis of Adaptive Behavior in Phelan–McDermid Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:893003. [PMID: 35864987 PMCID: PMC9295709 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.893003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The variety in symptomatology and clinical presentation of individuals diagnosed with Phelan-McDermid Syndrome (PMS) can delay medical diagnosis, so identifying specific neurobehavioral variables and facilitating differential diagnosis with patients with idiopathic Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can guide early detection. Methods A descriptive analysis of the level of adaptive behavior in 50 patients diagnosed with PMS was performed (SHANK3deletion: N = 44; SHANKmutation: N = 6). Subsequently, a comparative analysis was performed with 28 children aged between 4 years and 6 years and 11 months (SHANK3deletion = 14; ASD = 14). Differences between the two groups were evaluated and Bonferroni correction was applied for multiple comparisons. Results Differences were identified in the variables of communication (z = −2.715, p = 0.007), Self-Direction (z = −2.199, p = 0.028) and social participation (z = −3.190, p = 0.001), with better adaptive behavior skills being observed in participants with a SHANK3mutation. Better adaptive skills in the sample of participants with ASD, were found and statistically significant differences were identified in the variables of academic skills (z = −3.084, p = 0.002), use of community resources (z = −1.889, p = 0.050) and health and safety (z = −2.90, p = 0.004). Conclusion Participants with SHANK3mutation show better communication and social participation skills than those with a diagnosis of SHANK3deletion. The observed differences between ASD and individuals with PMS reflect deficits in practical and conceptual adaptive skills that may limit and hinder daily adaptive functioning.
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26
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Pillerová M, Drobná D, Szabó J, Renczés E, Borbélyová V, Ostatníková D, Celec P, Tóthová Ľ. Neuromotor Development in the Shank3 Mouse Model of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Brain Sci 2022; 12. [PMID: 35884680 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12070872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Although autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is mainly characterized by developmental delay in social and communication skills, it has been shown that neuromotor deficits are an early component of ASD. The neuromotor development of B6.129-Shank3tm2Gfng/J (Shank3B−/−) mice as an animal model of autism has not been analyzed yet. The aim of this study was to compare the early neuromotor development of Shank3B−/− to wild-type mice. The mice underwent a multitude of neurodevelopmental tests and observations from postnatal day 1 (PND = 1) to weaning. Shank3B−/− mice opened their eyes later than their wild-type litter mates (p < 0.01). Shank3B−/− mice were also slower in the negative geotaxis test from PND = 13 to PND = 16 (p < 0.001) in both sexes. The results of this study indicate neurodevelopmental deficits in Shank3B−/− mice. The test is partially dependent on truncal motor control, and these lines of evidence suggest a phenotype of developmental hypotonia, which corresponds with the phenotypes seen in patients with Phelan-McDermid Syndrome. There was no observable effect of sex in any of the tests. There were no observed differences in upper and lower incisor eruption, ear unfolding, air righting, surface righting and ear twitch reflexes. Further studies should prove whether the delay in neuromotor development is linked to social or communication deficits, and thus, whether it may serve as an early indicator of autistic-like phenotype in mice.
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27
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Rosas-García J, Ramón-Luing LA, Bobadilla K, Meraz-Ríos MA, Sevilla-Reyes EE, Santos-Mendoza T. Distinct Transcriptional Profile of PDZ Genes after Activation of Human Macrophages and Dendritic Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137010. [PMID: 35806015 PMCID: PMC9266728 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The PDZ (PSD95, Dlg and ZO-1) genes encode proteins that primarily function as scaffolds of diverse signaling pathways. To date, 153 PDZ genes have been identified in the human genome, most of which have multiple protein isoforms widely studied in epithelial and neural cells. However, their expression and function in immune cells have been poorly studied. Herein, we aimed to assess the transcriptional profiles of 83 PDZ genes in human macrophages (Mɸ) and dendritic cells (DCs) and changes in their relative expression during cell PRR stimulation. Significantly distinct PDZ gene transcriptional profiles were identified under different stimulation conditions. Furthermore, a distinct PDZ gene transcriptional signature was found in Mɸ and DCs under the same phagocytic stimuli. Notably, more than 40 PDZ genes had significant changes in expression, with potentially relevant functions in antigen-presenting cells (APCs). Given that several PDZ proteins are targeted by viral products, our results support that many of these proteins might be viral targets in APCs as part of evasion mechanisms. Our results suggest a distinct requirement for PDZ scaffolds in Mɸ and DCs signaling pathways activation. More assessments on the functions of PDZ proteins in APCs and their role in immune evasion mechanisms are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Rosas-García
- Laboratory of Transcriptomics and Molecular Immunology, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias Ismael Cosío Villegas, Mexico City 14080, Mexico; (J.R.-G.); (K.B.)
- Department of Molecular Biomedicine, CINVESTAV, Mexico City 07360, Mexico;
| | - Lucero A. Ramón-Luing
- Laboratory of Integrative Immunology, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias Ismael Cosío Villegas, Mexico City 14080, Mexico;
| | - Karen Bobadilla
- Laboratory of Transcriptomics and Molecular Immunology, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias Ismael Cosío Villegas, Mexico City 14080, Mexico; (J.R.-G.); (K.B.)
| | | | - Edgar E. Sevilla-Reyes
- Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias Ismael Cosío Villegas, Mexico City 14080, Mexico
- Correspondence: (E.E.S.-R.); (T.S.-M.)
| | - Teresa Santos-Mendoza
- Laboratory of Transcriptomics and Molecular Immunology, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias Ismael Cosío Villegas, Mexico City 14080, Mexico; (J.R.-G.); (K.B.)
- Correspondence: (E.E.S.-R.); (T.S.-M.)
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28
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Coccurello R, Marrone MC, Maccarrone M. The Endocannabinoids-Microbiota Partnership in Gut-Brain Axis Homeostasis: Implications for Autism Spectrum Disorders. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:869606. [PMID: 35721203 PMCID: PMC9204215 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.869606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The latest years have witnessed a growing interest towards the relationship between neuropsychiatric disease in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and severe alterations in gut microbiota composition. In parallel, an increasing literature has focused the attention towards the association between derangement of the endocannabinoids machinery and some mechanisms and symptoms identified in ASD pathophysiology, such as alteration of neural development, immune system dysfunction, defective social interaction and stereotypic behavior. In this narrative review, we put together the vast ground of endocannabinoids and their partnership with gut microbiota, pursuing the hypothesis that the crosstalk between these two complex homeostatic systems (bioactive lipid mediators, receptors, biosynthetic and hydrolytic enzymes and the entire bacterial gut ecosystem, signaling molecules, metabolites and short chain fatty acids) may disclose new ideas and functional connections for the development of synergic treatments combining “gut-therapy,” nutritional intervention and pharmacological approaches. The two separate domains of the literature have been examined looking for all the plausible (and so far known) overlapping points, describing the mutual changes induced by acting either on the endocannabinoid system or on gut bacteria population and their relevance for the understanding of ASD pathophysiology. Both human pathology and symptoms relief in ASD subjects, as well as multiple ASD-like animal models, have been taken into consideration in order to provide evidence of the relevance of the endocannabinoids-microbiota crosstalk in this major neurodevelopmental disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Coccurello
- Institute for Complex Systems (ISC), National Council of Research (CNR), Rome, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research/Santa Lucia Foundation IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Roberto Coccurello, ; Mauro Maccarrone,
| | - Maria Cristina Marrone
- Ministry of University and Research, Mission Unity for Recovery and Resilience Plan, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- European Center for Brain Research/Santa Lucia Foundation IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical and Sciences, University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
- *Correspondence: Roberto Coccurello, ; Mauro Maccarrone,
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29
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Urrutia-Ruiz C, Rombach D, Cursano S, Gerlach-Arbeiter S, Schoen M, Bockmann J, Demestre M, Boeckers TM. Deletion of the Autism-Associated Protein SHANK3 Abolishes Structural Synaptic Plasticity after Brain Trauma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116081. [PMID: 35682760 PMCID: PMC9181590 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are characterized by repetitive behaviors and impairments of sociability and communication. About 1% of ASD cases are caused by mutations of SHANK3, a major scaffolding protein of the postsynaptic density. We studied the role of SHANK3 in plastic changes of excitatory synapses within the central nervous system by employing mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) in WT and Shank3 knockout mice. In WT mice, mTBI triggered ipsi- and contralateral loss of hippocampal dendritic spines and excitatory synapses with a partial recovery over time. In contrast, no significant synaptic alterations were detected in Shank3∆11−/− mice, which showed fewer dendritic spines and excitatory synapses at baseline. In line, mTBI induced the upregulation of synaptic plasticity-related proteins Arc and p-cofilin only in WT mice. Interestingly, microglia proliferation was observed in WT mice after mTBI but not in Shank3∆11−/− mice. Finally, we detected TBI-induced increased fear memory at the behavioral level, whereas in Shank3∆11−/− animals, the already-enhanced fear memory levels increased only slightly after mTBI. Our data show the lack of structural synaptic plasticity in Shank3 knockout mice that might explain at least in part the rigidity of behaviors, problems in adjusting to new situations and cognitive deficits seen in ASDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Urrutia-Ruiz
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Albert Einstein Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.U.-R.); (D.R.); (S.C.); (S.G.-A.); (M.S.); (J.B.); (M.D.)
| | - Daniel Rombach
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Albert Einstein Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.U.-R.); (D.R.); (S.C.); (S.G.-A.); (M.S.); (J.B.); (M.D.)
| | - Silvia Cursano
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Albert Einstein Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.U.-R.); (D.R.); (S.C.); (S.G.-A.); (M.S.); (J.B.); (M.D.)
| | - Susanne Gerlach-Arbeiter
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Albert Einstein Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.U.-R.); (D.R.); (S.C.); (S.G.-A.); (M.S.); (J.B.); (M.D.)
| | - Michael Schoen
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Albert Einstein Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.U.-R.); (D.R.); (S.C.); (S.G.-A.); (M.S.); (J.B.); (M.D.)
| | - Juergen Bockmann
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Albert Einstein Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.U.-R.); (D.R.); (S.C.); (S.G.-A.); (M.S.); (J.B.); (M.D.)
| | - Maria Demestre
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Albert Einstein Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.U.-R.); (D.R.); (S.C.); (S.G.-A.); (M.S.); (J.B.); (M.D.)
| | - Tobias M. Boeckers
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Albert Einstein Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.U.-R.); (D.R.); (S.C.); (S.G.-A.); (M.S.); (J.B.); (M.D.)
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Translational Biochemistry, 89081 Ulm, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-731-5002-3220
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30
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Nevado J, García-Miñaúr S, Palomares-Bralo M, Vallespín E, Guillén-Navarro E, Rosell J, Bel-Fenellós C, Mori MÁ, Milá M, Del Campo M, Barrúz P, Santos-Simarro F, Obregón G, Orellana C, Pachajoa H, Tenorio JA, Galán E, Cigudosa JC, Moresco A, Saleme C, Castillo S, Gabau E, Pérez-Jurado L, Barcia A, Martín MS, Mansilla E, Vallcorba I, García-Murillo P, Cammarata-Scalisi F, Gonçalves Pereira N, Blanco-Lago R, Serrano M, Ortigoza-Escobar JD, Gener B, Seidel VA, Tirado P, Lapunzina P. Variability in Phelan-McDermid Syndrome in a Cohort of 210 Individuals. Front Genet 2022; 13:652454. [PMID: 35495150 PMCID: PMC9044489 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.652454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS, OMIM# 606232) results from either different rearrangements at the distal region of the long arm of chromosome 22 (22q13.3) or pathogenic sequence variants in the SHANK3 gene. SHANK3 codes for a structural protein that plays a central role in the formation of the postsynaptic terminals and the maintenance of synaptic structures. Clinically, patients with PMS often present with global developmental delay, absent or severely delayed speech, neonatal hypotonia, minor dysmorphic features, and autism spectrum disorders (ASD), among other findings. Here, we describe a cohort of 210 patients with genetically confirmed PMS. We observed multiple variant types, including a significant number of small deletions (<0.5 Mb, 64/189) and SHANK3 sequence variants (21 cases). We also detected multiple types of rearrangements among microdeletion cases, including a significant number with post-zygotic mosaicism (9.0%, 17/189), ring chromosome 22 (10.6%, 20/189), unbalanced translocations (de novo or inherited, 6.4%), and additional rearrangements at 22q13 (6.3%, 12/189) as well as other copy number variations in other chromosomes, unrelated to 22q deletions (14.8%, 28/189). We compared the clinical and genetic characteristics among patients with different sizes of deletions and with SHANK3 variants. Our findings suggest that SHANK3 plays an important role in this syndrome but is probably not uniquely responsible for all the spectrum features in PMS. We emphasize that only an adequate combination of different molecular and cytogenetic approaches allows an accurate genetic diagnosis in PMS patients. Thus, a diagnostic algorithm is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julián Nevado
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain.,CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,ITHACA-European Reference Network, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sixto García-Miñaúr
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain.,CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,ITHACA-European Reference Network, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Palomares-Bralo
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain.,CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,ITHACA-European Reference Network, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Vallespín
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain.,CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,ITHACA-European Reference Network, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Cristina Bel-Fenellós
- Departamento de Investigación y Psicología en Educación, Facultad de Educación, UCM, Madrid, Spain.,CEE Estudio-3, Afanias, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Ángeles Mori
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain.,CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,ITHACA-European Reference Network, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Pilar Barrúz
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Santos-Simarro
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain.,CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,ITHACA-European Reference Network, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Jair Antonio Tenorio
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain.,CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,ITHACA-European Reference Network, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Enrique Galán
- Hospital Materno-Infantil Infanta Cristina, Badajoz, Spain
| | | | | | - César Saleme
- Maternity Nuestra Señora de la Merced, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - Silvia Castillo
- Sección Genética, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Clínica Alemana, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Luis Pérez-Jurado
- CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,Servicio de Genética, Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas Hospital del Mar (IMIM)/Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Barcia
- Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Maria Soledad Martín
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Mansilla
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain.,CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,ITHACA-European Reference Network, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Vallcorba
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain.,CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,ITHACA-European Reference Network, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Raquel Blanco-Lago
- Servicio de Neuropediatría, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo (Asturias), Spain
| | - Mercedes Serrano
- Unidad de Neuropediatría, Hospital San Joan de Deu, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Pilar Tirado
- Servicio de Neuropediatría, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Lapunzina
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain.,CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,ITHACA-European Reference Network, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
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31
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Hausman-Cohen S, LaValley W, Way H, Gutierrez E, Reeder J. Utilizing Genomically Targeted Molecular Data to Improve Patient-Specific Outcomes in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2167. [PMID: 35216282 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular biology combined with genomics can be a powerful tool for developing potential intervention strategies for improving outcomes in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Monogenic etiologies rarely cause autism. Instead, ASD is more frequently due to many polygenic contributing factors interacting with each other, combined with the epigenetic effects of diet, lifestyle, and environment. One limitation of genomics has been identifying ways of responding to each identified gene variant to translate the information to something clinically useful. This paper will illustrate how understanding the function of a gene and the effects of a reported variant on a molecular level can be used to develop actionable and targeted potential interventions for a gene variant or combinations of variants. For illustrative purposes, this communication highlights a specific genomic variant, SHANK3. The steps involved in developing molecularly genomically targeted actionable interventions will be demonstrated. Cases will be shared to support the efficacy of this strategy and to show how clinicians utilized these targeted interventions to improve ASD-related symptoms significantly. The presented approach demonstrates the utility of genomics as a part of clinical decision-making.
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32
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Al Dera H. Cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying autism spectrum disorders and associated comorbidities: A pathophysiological review. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 148:112688. [PMID: 35149383 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders that develop in early life due to interaction between several genetic and environmental factors and lead to alterations in brain function and structure. During the last decades, several mechanisms have been placed to explain the pathogenesis of autism. Unfortunately, these are reported in several studies and reviews which make it difficult to follow by the reader. In addition, some recent molecular mechanisms related to ASD have been unrevealed. This paper revises and highlights the major common molecular mechanisms responsible for the clinical symptoms seen in people with ASD, including the roles of common genetic factors and disorders, neuroinflammation, GABAergic signaling, and alterations in Ca+2 signaling. Besides, it covers the major molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways involved in initiating the epileptic seizure, including the alterations in the GABAergic and glutamate signaling, vitamin and mineral deficiency, disorders of metabolism, and autoimmunity. Finally, this review also discusses sleep disorder patterns and the molecular mechanisms underlying them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussain Al Dera
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine at King Saud, Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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33
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Woike D, Wang E, Tibbe D, Hassani Nia F, Failla AV, Kibæk M, Overgård TM, Larsen MJ, Fagerberg CR, Barsukov I, Kreienkamp HJ. Mutations affecting the N-terminal domains of SHANK3 point to different pathomechanisms in neurodevelopmental disorders. Sci Rep 2022; 12:902. [PMID: 35042901 PMCID: PMC8766471 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-04723-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Shank proteins are major scaffolds of the postsynaptic density of excitatory synapses. Mutations in SHANK genes are associated with autism and intellectual disability. The effects of missense mutations on Shank3 function, and therefore the pathomechanisms are unclear. Several missense mutations in SHANK3 affect the N-terminal region, consisting of the Shank/ProSAP N-terminal (SPN) domain and a set of Ankyrin (Ank) repeats. Here we identify a novel SHANK3 missense mutation (p.L270M) in the Ankyrin repeats in patients with an ADHD-like phenotype. We functionally analysed this and a series of other mutations, using biochemical and biophysical techniques. We observe two major effects: (1) a loss of binding to δ-catenin (e.g. in the p.L270M variant), and (2) interference with the intramolecular interaction between N-terminal SPN domain and the Ank repeats. This also interferes with binding to the α-subunit of the calcium-/calmodulin dependent kinase II (αCaMKII), and appears to be associated with a more severe neurodevelopmental pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Woike
- Institute for Human Genetics, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Emily Wang
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Debora Tibbe
- Institute for Human Genetics, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Fatemeh Hassani Nia
- Institute for Human Genetics, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Antonio Virgilio Failla
- UKE Microscopic Imaging Facility (UMIF), University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maria Kibæk
- H C Andersen Children's Hospital, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Martin J Larsen
- H C Andersen Children's Hospital, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Christina R Fagerberg
- H C Andersen Children's Hospital, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Igor Barsukov
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Hans-Jürgen Kreienkamp
- Institute for Human Genetics, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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34
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Delling JP, Boeckers TM. Comparison of SHANK3 deficiency in animal models: phenotypes, treatment strategies, and translational implications. J Neurodev Disord 2021; 13:55. [PMID: 34784886 PMCID: PMC8594088 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-021-09397-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition, which is characterized by clinical heterogeneity and high heritability. Core symptoms of ASD include deficits in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. Many genes have been identified that are associated with an increased risk for ASD. Proteins encoded by these ASD risk genes are often involved in processes related to fetal brain development, chromatin modification and regulation of gene expression in general, as well as the structural and functional integrity of synapses. Genes of the SH3 and multiple ankyrin repeat domains (SHANK) family encode crucial scaffolding proteins (SHANK1-3) of excitatory synapses and other macromolecular complexes. SHANK gene mutations are highly associated with ASD and more specifically the Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMDS), which is caused by heterozygous 22q13.3-deletion resulting in SHANK3-haploinsufficiency, or by SHANK3 missense variants. SHANK3 deficiency and potential treatment options have been extensively studied in animal models, especially in mice, but also in rats and non-human primates. However, few of the proposed therapeutic strategies have translated into clinical practice yet. MAIN TEXT This review summarizes the literature concerning SHANK3-deficient animal models. In particular, the structural, behavioral, and neurological abnormalities are described and compared, providing a broad and comprehensive overview. Additionally, the underlying pathophysiologies and possible treatments that have been investigated in these models are discussed and evaluated with respect to their effect on ASD- or PMDS-associated phenotypes. CONCLUSIONS Animal models of SHANK3 deficiency generated by various genetic strategies, which determine the composition of the residual SHANK3-isoforms and affected cell types, show phenotypes resembling ASD and PMDS. The phenotypic heterogeneity across multiple models and studies resembles the variation of clinical severity in human ASD and PMDS patients. Multiple therapeutic strategies have been proposed and tested in animal models, which might lead to translational implications for human patients with ASD and/or PMDS. Future studies should explore the effects of new therapeutic approaches that target genetic haploinsufficiency, like CRISPR-mediated activation of promotors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Delling
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, Ulm, 89081, Germany.
| | - Tobias M Boeckers
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, Ulm, 89081, Germany. .,Ulm Site, DZNE, Ulm, Germany.
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35
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Islam KUS, Meli N, Blaess S. The Development of the Mesoprefrontal Dopaminergic System in Health and Disease. Front Neural Circuits 2021; 15:746582. [PMID: 34712123 PMCID: PMC8546303 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2021.746582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Midbrain dopaminergic neurons located in the substantia nigra and the ventral tegmental area are the main source of dopamine in the brain. They send out projections to a variety of forebrain structures, including dorsal striatum, nucleus accumbens, and prefrontal cortex (PFC), establishing the nigrostriatal, mesolimbic, and mesoprefrontal pathways, respectively. The dopaminergic input to the PFC is essential for the performance of higher cognitive functions such as working memory, attention, planning, and decision making. The gradual maturation of these cognitive skills during postnatal development correlates with the maturation of PFC local circuits, which undergo a lengthy functional remodeling process during the neonatal and adolescence stage. During this period, the mesoprefrontal dopaminergic innervation also matures: the fibers are rather sparse at prenatal stages and slowly increase in density during postnatal development to finally reach a stable pattern in early adulthood. Despite the prominent role of dopamine in the regulation of PFC function, relatively little is known about how the dopaminergic innervation is established in the PFC, whether and how it influences the maturation of local circuits and how exactly it facilitates cognitive functions in the PFC. In this review, we provide an overview of the development of the mesoprefrontal dopaminergic system in rodents and primates and discuss the role of altered dopaminergic signaling in neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Ushna S Islam
- Neurodevelopmental Genetics, Institute of Reconstructive Neurobiology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Norisa Meli
- Neurodevelopmental Genetics, Institute of Reconstructive Neurobiology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Institute of Neuropathology, Section for Translational Epilepsy Research, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Sandra Blaess
- Neurodevelopmental Genetics, Institute of Reconstructive Neurobiology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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36
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Nardella C, Visconti L, Malagrinò F, Pagano L, Bufano M, Nalli M, Coluccia A, La Regina G, Silvestri R, Gianni S, Toto A. Targeting PDZ domains as potential treatment for viral infections, neurodegeneration and cancer. Biol Direct 2021; 16:15. [PMID: 34641953 PMCID: PMC8506081 DOI: 10.1186/s13062-021-00303-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The interaction between proteins is a fundamental event for cellular life that is generally mediated by specialized protein domains or modules. PDZ domains are the largest class of protein-protein interaction modules, involved in several cellular pathways such as signal transduction, cell-cell junctions, cell polarity and adhesion, and protein trafficking. Because of that, dysregulation of PDZ domain function often causes the onset of pathologies, thus making this family of domains an interesting pharmaceutical target. In this review article we provide an overview of the structural and functional features of PDZ domains and their involvement in the cellular and molecular pathways at the basis of different human pathologies. We also discuss some of the strategies that have been developed with the final goal to hijack or inhibit the interaction of PDZ domains with their ligands. Because of the generally low binding selectivity of PDZ domain and the scarce efficiency of small molecules in inhibiting PDZ binding, this task resulted particularly difficult to pursue and still demands increasing experimental efforts in order to become completely feasible and successful in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Nardella
- Istituto Pasteur - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto di Biologia e Patologia Molecolari del CNR, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Visconti
- Istituto Pasteur - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto di Biologia e Patologia Molecolari del CNR, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Malagrinò
- Istituto Pasteur - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto di Biologia e Patologia Molecolari del CNR, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Livia Pagano
- Istituto Pasteur - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto di Biologia e Patologia Molecolari del CNR, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Marianna Bufano
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Marianna Nalli
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Coluccia
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe La Regina
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Romano Silvestri
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Stefano Gianni
- Istituto Pasteur - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto di Biologia e Patologia Molecolari del CNR, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Angelo Toto
- Istituto Pasteur - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto di Biologia e Patologia Molecolari del CNR, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185, Rome, Italy.
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Rodriguez-Gomez DA, Garcia-Guaqueta DP, Charry-Sánchez JD, Sarquis-Buitrago E, Blanco M, Velez-van-Meerbeke A, Talero-Gutiérrez C. A systematic review of common genetic variation and biological pathways in autism spectrum disorder. BMC Neurosci 2021; 22:60. [PMID: 34627165 PMCID: PMC8501721 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-021-00662-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction. Common genetic variation appears to play a key role in the development of this condition. In this systematic review, we describe the relationship between genetic variations and autism. We created a gene dataset of the genes involved in the pathogenesis of autism and performed an over-representation analysis to evaluate the biological functions and molecular pathways that may explain the associations between these variants and the development of ASD. Results 177 studies and a gene set composed of 139 were included in this qualitative systematic review. Enriched pathways in the over-representation analysis using the KEGG pathway database were mostly associated with neurotransmitter receptors and their subunits. Major over-represented biological processes were social behavior, vocalization behavior, learning and memory. The enriched cellular component of the proteins encoded by the genes identified in this systematic review were the postsynaptic membrane and the cell junction. Conclusions Among the biological processes that were examined, genes involved in synaptic integrity, neurotransmitter metabolism, and cell adhesion molecules were significantly involved in the development of autism. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12868-021-00662-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Alejandro Rodriguez-Gomez
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Danna Paola Garcia-Guaqueta
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Jesús David Charry-Sánchez
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Elias Sarquis-Buitrago
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Mariana Blanco
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Alberto Velez-van-Meerbeke
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia.,NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Claudia Talero-Gutiérrez
- Neuroscience Research Group (NeURos), NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia. .,NeuroVitae Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24 No. 63C-69, 111221, Bogotá D.C., Colombia.
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Liu C, Wang Y, Deng J, Lin J, Hu C, Li Q, Xu X. Social Deficits and Repetitive Behaviors Are Improved by Early Postnatal Low-Dose VPA Intervention in a Novel shank3-Deficient Zebrafish Model. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:682054. [PMID: 34566559 PMCID: PMC8462462 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.682054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations of the SHANK3 gene are found in some autism spectrum disorder (ASD) patients, and animal models harboring SHANK3 mutations exhibit a variety of ASD-like behaviors, presenting a unique opportunity to explore the underlying neuropathological mechanisms and potential pharmacological treatments. The histone deacetylase (HDAC) valproic acid (VPA) has demonstrated neuroprotective and neuroregenerative properties, suggesting possible therapeutic utility for ASD. Therefore, SHANK3-associated ASD-like symptoms present a convenient model to evaluate the potential benefits, therapeutic window, and optimal dose of VPA. We constructed a novel shank3-deficient (shank3ab–/–) zebrafish model through CRISPR/Cas9 editing and conducted comprehensive morphological and neurobehavioral evaluations, including of core ASD-like behaviors, as well as molecular analyses of synaptic proteins expression levels. Furthermore, different VPA doses and treatment durations were examined for effects on ASD-like phenotypes. Compared to wild types (WTs), shank3ab–/– zebrafish exhibited greater developmental mortality, more frequent abnormal tail bending, pervasive developmental delay, impaired social preference, repetitive swimming behaviors, and generally reduced locomotor activity. The expression levels of synaptic proteins were also dramatically reduced in shank3ab–/– zebrafish. These ASD-like behaviors were attenuated by low-dose (5 μM) VPA administered from 4 to 8 days post-fertilization (dpf), and the effects persisted to adulthood. In addition, the observed underexpression of grm5, encoding glutamate metabotropic receptor 5, was significantly improved in VPA-treated shank3ab–/– zebrafish. We report for the first time that low-dose VPA administered after neural tube closure has lasting beneficial effects on the social deficits and repetitive behavioral patterns in shank3-deficient ASD model zebrafish. These findings provide a promising strategy for ASD clinical drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxue Liu
- Department of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingxin Deng
- Department of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Lin
- Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Pediatrics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunchun Hu
- Department of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Pediatrics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Prevention and Control, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiu Xu
- Department of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Children's Medical Center, Shanghai, China
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Wan L, Ai JQ, Yang C, Jiang J, Zhang QL, Luo ZH, Huang RJ, Tu T, Pan A, Tu E, Manavis J, Xiao B, Yan XX. Expression of the Excitatory Postsynaptic Scaffolding Protein, Shank3, in Human Brain: Effect of Age and Alzheimer's Disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:717263. [PMID: 34504419 PMCID: PMC8421777 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.717263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Shank3 is a postsynaptic scaffolding protein of excitatory synapses. Mutations or variations of SHANK3 are associated with various psychiatric and neurological disorders. We set to determine its normal expression pattern in the human brain, and its change, if any, with age and Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-type β-amyloid (Aβ) and Tau pathogenesis. In general, Shank3 immunoreactivity (IR) exhibited largely a neuropil pattern with differential laminar/regional distribution across brain regions. In youth and adults, subsets of pyramidal/multipolar neurons in the cerebrum, striatum, and thalamus showed moderate IR, while some large-sized neurons in the brainstem and the granule cells in the cerebellar cortex exhibited light IR. In double immunofluorescence, Shank3 IR occurred at the sublemmal regions in neuronal somata and large dendrites, apposing to synaptophysin-labeled presynaptic terminals. In aged cases, immunolabeled neuronal somata were reduced, with disrupted neuropil labeling seen in the molecular layer of the dentate gyrus in AD cases. In immunoblot, levels of Shank3 protein were positively correlated with that of the postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) among different brain regions. Levels of Shank3, PSD95, and synaptophysin immunoblotted in the prefrontal, precentral, and cerebellar cortical lysates were reduced in the aged and AD relative to youth and adult groups. Taken together, the differential Shank3 expression among brain structures/regions indicates the varied local density of the excitatory synapses. The enriched Shank3 expression in the forebrain subregions appears inconsistent with a role of this protein in the modulation of high cognitive functions. The decline of its expression in aged and AD brains may relate to the degeneration of excitatory synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Wan
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jia-Qi Ai
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Chen Yang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Juan Jiang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Qi-Lei Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Zhao-Hui Luo
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Rou-Jie Huang
- Medical Doctor Program, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Tian Tu
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Aihua Pan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Ewen Tu
- Department of Neurology, Brain Hospital of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Jim Manavis
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Bo Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiao-Xin Yan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
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Kankuri-Tammilehto M, Sauna-Aho O, Arvio M. Neurocognitive follow-up in adult siblings with Phelan-McDermid syndrome due to a novel SHANK3 splicing site mutation. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2021; 9:e1780. [PMID: 34369668 PMCID: PMC8683620 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMD) is usually not only caused by 22q13.3 deletion but also pathogenic variants (mutations) of SHANK3 gene. PMD is characterized by global intellectual disability, severely delayed or absent speech, and features of autism spectrum disorder and susceptibility to psychotic behavior. Here, we describe a neurocognitive follow-up and genetic etiology for two siblings with PMD. METHOD Comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) array test was normal and no 22q13.3 deletion was observed. For this reason, whole exome sequencing (WES) analyzed the siblings' and the parents' DNA sample. RESULTS The results of the siblings strongly suggest that the SHANK3 gene variant c.2313+1G>A is pathogenic and PMD can be inherited from a mosaic father for this gene variant. Both siblings learned new skills until puberty but experienced a neuropsychiatric disaster after the age of 14 years experienced neurocognitive decline and it was sharp for one of the siblings. CONCLUSION The long-term observations are sparse in PMD and SHANK3 mutations. This is the neurocognitive follow-up from childhood to middle ages, where a sharp neurocognitive decline was observed. We conclude that progressive neuropsychiatric symptoms in adolescence are a universal clinical clue for PMD diagnosis and an underlying SHANK3 splicing site mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minna Kankuri-Tammilehto
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.,Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Oili Sauna-Aho
- KTO, Support and Expert Center for Persons with Intellectual Disability, Southwest Special Care Municipal Authority, Paimio, Finland
| | - Maria Arvio
- Neurology, Päijät-Häme Joint Municipal Authority, Lahti, Finland.,PEDEGO, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
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Dyar B, Meaddough E, Sarasua SM, Rogers C, Phelan K, Boccuto L. Genetic Findings as the Potential Basis of Personalized Pharmacotherapy in Phelan-McDermid Syndrome. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:1192. [PMID: 34440366 PMCID: PMC8392667 DOI: 10.3390/genes12081192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is a genetic disorder often characterized by autism or autistic-like behavior. Most cases are associated with haploinsufficiency of the SHANK3 gene resulting from deletion of the gene at 22q13.3 or from a pathogenic variant in the gene. Treatment of PMS often targets SHANK3, yet deletion size varies from <50 kb to >9 Mb, potentially encompassing dozens of genes and disrupting regulatory elements altering gene expression, inferring the potential for multiple therapeutic targets. Repurposed drugs have been used in clinical trials investigating therapies for PMS: insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) for its effect on social and aberrant behaviors, intranasal insulin for improvements in cognitive and social ability, and lithium for reversing regression and stabilizing behavior. The pharmacogenomics of PMS is complicated by the CYP2D6 enzyme which metabolizes antidepressants and antipsychotics often used for treatment. The gene coding for CYP2D6 maps to 22q13.2 and is lost in individuals with deletions larger than 8 Mb. Because PMS has diverse neurological and medical symptoms, many concurrent medications may be prescribed, increasing the risk for adverse drug reactions. At present, there is no single best treatment for PMS. Approaches to therapy are necessarily complex and must target variable behavioral and physical symptoms of PMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna Dyar
- Healthcare Genetics Program, School of Nursing, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA; (B.D.); (E.M.); (S.M.S.)
| | - Erika Meaddough
- Healthcare Genetics Program, School of Nursing, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA; (B.D.); (E.M.); (S.M.S.)
| | - Sara M. Sarasua
- Healthcare Genetics Program, School of Nursing, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA; (B.D.); (E.M.); (S.M.S.)
| | | | - Katy Phelan
- Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, Fort Myers, FL 33905, USA;
| | - Luigi Boccuto
- Healthcare Genetics Program, School of Nursing, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA; (B.D.); (E.M.); (S.M.S.)
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Burrows EL, May C, Hill T, Churliov L, Johnson KA, Hannan AJ. Mice with an autism-associated R451C mutation in neuroligin-3 show a cautious but accurate response style in touchscreen attention tasks. Genes Brain Behav 2021; 21:e12757. [PMID: 34085373 PMCID: PMC9744539 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
One of the earliest identifiable features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is altered attention. Mice expressing the ASD-associated R451C mutation in synaptic adhesion protein neuroligin-3 (NL3) exhibit impaired reciprocal social interactions and repetitive and restrictive behaviours. The role of this mutation in attentional abnormalities has not been established. We assessed attention in male NL3R451C mice using two well-established tasks in touchscreen chambers. In the 5-choice serial reaction task, rodents were trained to attend to light stimuli that appear in any one of five locations. While no differences between NL3R451C and WT mice were seen in accuracy or omissions, slower response times and quicker reward collection latencies were seen across all training and probe trials. In the rodent continuous-performance test, animals were required to discriminate, and identify a visual target pattern over multiple distractor stimuli. NL3R451C mice displayed enhanced ability to attend to stimuli when task-load was low during training and baseline but lost this advantage when difficulty was increased by altering task parameters in probe trials. NL3R451C mice made less responses to the distractor stimuli, exhibiting lower false alarm rates during all training stages and in probe trials. Slower response times and quicker reward latencies were consistently seen in NL3R451C mice in the rCPT. Slower response times are a major cognitive phenotype reported in ASD patients and are indicative of slower processing speed. Enhanced attention has been shown in a subset of ASD patients and we have demonstrated this phenotype also exists in the NL3R451C mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L. Burrows
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Carlos May
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Thomas Hill
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Leonid Churliov
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental HealthHeidelbergVictoriaAustralia
| | - Katherine A. Johnson
- School of Psychological SciencesUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Anthony J. Hannan
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia,Department of Anatomy and NeuroscienceUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
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Manning C, Hurd PL, Read S, Crespi B. SHANK3 Genotype Mediates Speech and Language Phenotypes in a Nonclinical Population. Autism Res Treat 2021; 2021:6634584. [PMID: 34188957 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6634584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Mutations affecting the synaptic-scaffold gene SHANK3 represent the most common genetic causes of autism with intellectual disability, accounting for about 1-2% of cases. Rare variants of this gene have also been associated with schizophrenia, and its deletion results in the autistic condition known as Phelan–McDermid syndrome. Despite the importance of SHANK3 as a paradigmatic gene mediating neurodevelopmental disorders, its psychological effects in nonclinical populations have yet to be studied. We genotyped the nonsynonymous, functional SHANK3 SNP rs9616915 in a large population of typical individuals scored for autism spectrum traits (the Autism Quotient, AQ) and schizotypy spectrum traits (the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire, SPQ-BR). Males, but not females, showed significant genotypic effects for the SPQ-BR subscale associated with speech and language: Odd Speech. These findings, in conjunction with animal model studies showing vocalization and auditory effects of SHANK3 mutations, and studies indicating severe language alterations and speech-associated white matter tract abnormalities in Phelan–McDermid syndrome, suggest that SHANK3 differentially affects the development and expression of human language and speech. Imaging genetic and speech-language studies of typical individuals carrying different genotypes of rs9616915 should provide novel insights into the neurological and psychological bases of speech and language alterations among individuals with SHANK3 mutations and Phelan–McDermid syndrome.
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Way H, Williams G, Hausman-Cohen S, Reeder J. Genomics as a Clinical Decision Support Tool: Successful Proof of Concept for Improved ASD Outcomes. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11070596. [PMID: 34202628 PMCID: PMC8305264 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11070596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Considerable evidence is emerging that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is most often triggered by a range of different genetic variants that interact with environmental factors such as exposures to toxicants and changes to the food supply. Up to 80% of genetic variations that contribute to ASD found to date are neither extremely rare nor classified as pathogenic. Rather, they are less common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), found in 1-15% or more of the population, that by themselves are not disease-causing. These genomic variants contribute to ASD by interacting with each other, along with nutritional and environmental factors. Examples of pathways affected or triggered include those related to brain inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuronal connectivity, synapse formation, impaired detoxification, methylation, and neurotransmitter-related effects. This article presents information on four case study patients that are part of a larger ongoing pilot study. A genomic clinical decision support (CDS) tool that specifically focuses on variants and pathways that have been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders was used in this pilot study to help develop a targeted, personalized prevention and intervention strategy for each child. In addition to an individual's genetic makeup, each patient's personal history, diet, and environmental factors were considered. The CDS tool also looked at genomic SNPs associated with secondary comorbid ASD conditions including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, and pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with streptococcal infections/pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANDAS/PANS). The interpreted genomics tool helped the treating clinician identify and develop personalized, genomically targeted treatment plans. Utilization of this treatment approach was associated with significant improvements in socialization and verbal skills, academic milestones and intelligence quotient (IQ), and overall increased ability to function in these children, as measured by autism treatment evaluation checklist (ATEC) scores and parent interviews.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Way
- The Australian Centre for Genomic Analysis, Brisbane, QLD 4069, Australia;
| | | | - Sharon Hausman-Cohen
- IntellxxDNA™, Austin, TX 78731, USA; (G.W.); (J.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-512-717-3300
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May HJ, Jeong J, Revah-Politi A, Cohen JS, Chassevent A, Baptista J, Baugh EH, Bier L, Bottani A, Carminho A Rodrigues MT, Conlon C, Fluss J, Guipponi M, Kim CA, Matsumoto N, Person R, Primiano M, Rankin J, Shinawi M, Smith-Hicks C, Telegrafi A, Toy S, Uchiyama Y, Aggarwal V, Goldstein DB, Roche KW, Anyane-Yeboa K. Truncating variants in the SHANK1 gene are associated with a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders. Genet Med 2021; 23:1912-1921. [PMID: 34113010 DOI: 10.1038/s41436-021-01222-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In this study, we aimed to characterize the clinical phenotype of a SHANK1-related disorder and define the functional consequences of SHANK1 truncating variants. METHODS Exome sequencing (ES) was performed for six individuals who presented with neurodevelopmental disorders. Individuals were ascertained with the use of GeneMatcher and Database of Chromosomal Imbalance and Phenotype in Humans Using Ensembl Resources (DECIPHER). We evaluated potential nonsense-mediated decay (NMD) of two variants by making knock-in cell lines of endogenous truncated SHANK1, and expressed the truncated SHANK1 complementary DNA (cDNA) in HEK293 cells and cultured hippocampal neurons to examine the proteins. RESULTS ES detected de novo truncating variants in SHANK1 in six individuals. Evaluation of NMD resulted in stable transcripts, and the truncated SHANK1 completely lost binding with Homer1, a linker protein that binds to the C-terminus of SHANK1. These variants may disrupt protein-protein networks in dendritic spines. Dispersed localization of the truncated SHANK1 variants within the spine and dendritic shaft was also observed when expressed in neurons, indicating impaired synaptic localization of truncated SHANK1. CONCLUSION This report expands the clinical spectrum of individuals with truncating SHANK1 variants and describes the impact these variants may have on the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halie J May
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Jaehoon Jeong
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Anya Revah-Politi
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Julie S Cohen
- Department of Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anna Chassevent
- Department of Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Julia Baptista
- Exeter Genomics Laboratory, Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK.,Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Science, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | - Evan H Baugh
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Louise Bier
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Armand Bottani
- Division of Genetic Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Charles Conlon
- Department of Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joel Fluss
- Pediatric Neurology Unit, Pediatrics Subspecialties Service, Geneva Children's Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Michel Guipponi
- Division of Genetic Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Chong Ae Kim
- Genetics Unit, Instituto da Crianca, Hospital das Clinicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Naomichi Matsumoto
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Richard Person
- Clinical Genomics Program, GeneDx, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Michelle Primiano
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Julia Rankin
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK
| | - Marwan Shinawi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Constance Smith-Hicks
- Department of Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Aida Telegrafi
- Clinical Genomics Program, GeneDx, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Samantha Toy
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Yuri Uchiyama
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan.,Department of Rare Disease Genomics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Vimla Aggarwal
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - David B Goldstein
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Katherine W Roche
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kwame Anyane-Yeboa
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA. .,Division of Clinical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
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46
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Bucher M, Niebling S, Han Y, Molodenskiy D, Hassani Nia F, Kreienkamp HJ, Svergun D, Kim E, Kostyukova AS, Kreutz MR, Mikhaylova M. Autism-associated SHANK3 missense point mutations impact conformational fluctuations and protein turnover at synapses. eLife 2021; 10:66165. [PMID: 33945465 PMCID: PMC8169116 DOI: 10.7554/elife.66165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of the SH3- and ankyrin repeat (SHANK) protein family are considered as master scaffolds of the postsynaptic density of glutamatergic synapses. Several missense mutations within the canonical SHANK3 isoform have been proposed as causative for the development of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). However, there is a surprising paucity of data linking missense mutation-induced changes in protein structure and dynamics to the occurrence of ASD-related synaptic phenotypes. In this proof-of-principle study, we focus on two ASD-associated point mutations, both located within the same domain of SHANK3 and demonstrate that both mutant proteins indeed show distinct changes in secondary and tertiary structure as well as higher conformational fluctuations. Local and distal structural disturbances result in altered synaptic targeting and changes of protein turnover at synaptic sites in rat primary hippocampal neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Bucher
- AG Optobiology, Institute of Biology, Humboldt-University, Berlin, Germany.,DFG Emmy Noether Guest Group 'Neuronal Protein Transport', Institute for Molecular Neurogenetics, Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany.,RG Neuroplasticity, Leibniz-Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Niebling
- Molecular Biophysics and High-Throughput Crystallization, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Yuhao Han
- DFG Emmy Noether Guest Group 'Neuronal Protein Transport', Institute for Molecular Neurogenetics, Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany.,Structural Cell Biology of Viruses, Centre for Structural Systems Biology (CSSB) and Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dmitry Molodenskiy
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Hamburg Unit, DESY, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Fatemeh Hassani Nia
- Institute of Human Genetics, Center for Obstetrics and Pediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Jürgen Kreienkamp
- Institute of Human Genetics, Center for Obstetrics and Pediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dmitri Svergun
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Hamburg Unit, DESY, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Eunjoon Kim
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS) and Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Alla S Kostyukova
- DFG Emmy Noether Guest Group 'Neuronal Protein Transport', Institute for Molecular Neurogenetics, Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany.,The Gene and Linda Voiland School of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, Washington State University (WSU), Pullman, United States
| | - Michael R Kreutz
- RG Neuroplasticity, Leibniz-Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg, Germany.,Leibniz Group 'Dendritic Organelles and Synaptic Function', Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Magdeburg, Germany.,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Marina Mikhaylova
- AG Optobiology, Institute of Biology, Humboldt-University, Berlin, Germany.,DFG Emmy Noether Guest Group 'Neuronal Protein Transport', Institute for Molecular Neurogenetics, Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
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47
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Ma SL, Chen LH, Lee CC, Lai KYC, Hung SF, Tang CP, Ho TP, Shea C, Mo F, Mak TSH, Sham PC, Leung PWL. Genetic Overlap Between Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder in SHANK2 Gene. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:649588. [PMID: 33986640 PMCID: PMC8111170 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.649588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Recent findings indicated a high comorbidity between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as shared genetic influences on them. The latter might contribute at least partly to the former clinical scenario. This study aimed at investigating whether SHANK genes were potential pleiotropic genes to the two said disorders, underlying their genetic overlap. Methods: This study recruited 298 boys with ADHD (including 256 family trios of 1 ADHD boy and his 2 biological parents), 134 boys with ASD, 109 boys with both ADHD and ASD, and 232 typically developing boys as community controls. They were aged between 6 and 11 years old. Results: There was no significant difference in allele frequency of a number of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in SHANK2/SHANK3 between the three clinical groups (ADHD, ASD, and ADHD + ASD) and between the two control groups (community controls and pseudo-controls), respectively. The three clinical groups and the two control groups were thus, respectively, combined. A comparison between the two aggregated samples identified significant evidence of disease association for three SHANK2 SNPs with both ADHD and ASD, even after multiple testing correction: rs11236616 (OR = 0.762, permuted p = 0.0376), rs7106631 (OR = 0.720, permuted p = 0.0034), and rs9888288 (OR = 0.770, permuted p = 0.0407). Comparisons among individual groups pointed to a similar trend of findings. Conclusion:SHANK2 could be considered a potential pleiotropic gene underlying the genetic overlap between ADHD and ASD. This might contribute partly to their high comorbidity in the afflicted children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suk-Ling Ma
- Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lu Hua Chen
- Centre for PanorOmic Sciences - Genomics and Bioinformatics Cores, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chi-Chiu Lee
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kelly Y C Lai
- Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Se-Fong Hung
- Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chun-Pan Tang
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ting-Pong Ho
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Caroline Shea
- Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong, China
| | - Flora Mo
- Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong, China
| | - Timothy S H Mak
- Centre for PanorOmic Sciences - Genomics and Bioinformatics Cores, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Pak-Chung Sham
- Centre for PanorOmic Sciences - Genomics and Bioinformatics Cores, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Department of Psychiatry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Patrick W L Leung
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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48
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Tran SM, Mohajeri MH. The Role of Gut Bacterial Metabolites in Brain Development, Aging and Disease. Nutrients 2021; 13:732. [PMID: 33669008 DOI: 10.3390/nu13030732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, emerging evidence has reported correlations between the gut microbiome and human health and disease, including those affecting the brain. We performed a systematic assessment of the available literature focusing on gut bacterial metabolites and their associations with diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). The bacterial metabolites short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) as well as non-SCFAs like amino acid metabolites (AAMs) and bacterial amyloids are described in particular. We found significantly altered SCFA levels in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), affective disorders, multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Non-SCFAs yielded less significantly distinct changes in faecal levels of patients and healthy controls, with the majority of findings were derived from urinary and blood samples. Preclinical studies have implicated different bacterial metabolites with potentially beneficial as well as detrimental mechanisms in brain diseases. Examples include immunomodulation and changes in catecholamine production by histone deacetylase inhibition, anti-inflammatory effects through activity on the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and involvement in protein misfolding. Overall, our findings highlight the existence of altered bacterial metabolites in patients across various brain diseases, as well as potential neuroactive effects by which gut-derived SCFAs, p-cresol, indole derivatives and bacterial amyloids could impact disease development and progression. The findings summarized in this review could lead to further insights into the gut–brain–axis and thus into potential diagnostic, therapeutic or preventive strategies in brain diseases.
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49
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Wan L, Liu D, Xiao WB, Zhang BX, Yan XX, Luo ZH, Xiao B. Association of SHANK Family with Neuropsychiatric Disorders: An Update on Genetic and Animal Model Discoveries. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2021; 42:1623-1643. [PMID: 33595806 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-021-01054-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The Shank family proteins are enriched at the postsynaptic density (PSD) of excitatory glutamatergic synapses. They serve as synaptic scaffolding proteins and appear to play a critical role in the formation, maintenance and functioning of synapse. Increasing evidence from genetic association and animal model studies indicates a connection of SHANK genes defects with the development of neuropsychiatric disorders. In this review, we first update the current understanding of the SHANK family genes and their encoded protein products. We then denote the literature relating their alterations to the risk of neuropsychiatric diseases. We further review evidence from animal models that provided molecular insights into the biological as well as pathogenic roles of Shank proteins in synapses, and the potential relationship to the development of abnormal neurobehavioral phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Wan
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Du Liu
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.,Taikang Tongji Hospital, Wuhan, 430050, Hubei, China
| | - Wen-Biao Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Bo-Xin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Xiao-Xin Yan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Zhao-Hui Luo
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
| | - Bo Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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50
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Schenkel LC, Aref-Eshghi E, Rooney K, Kerkhof J, Levy MA, McConkey H, Rogers RC, Phelan K, Sarasua SM, Jain L, Pauly R, Boccuto L, DuPont B, Cappuccio G, Brunetti-Pierri N, Schwartz CE, Sadikovic B. DNA methylation epi-signature is associated with two molecularly and phenotypically distinct clinical subtypes of Phelan-McDermid syndrome. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:2. [PMID: 33407854 PMCID: PMC7789817 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-020-00990-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Phelan-McDermid syndrome is characterized by a range of neurodevelopmental phenotypes with incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity. It is caused by a variable size and breakpoint microdeletions in the distal long arm of chromosome 22, referred to as 22q13.3 deletion syndrome, including the SHANK3 gene. Genetic defects in a growing number of neurodevelopmental genes have been shown to cause genome-wide disruptions in epigenomic profiles referred to as epi-signatures in affected individuals. Results In this study we assessed genome-wide DNA methylation profiles in a cohort of 22 individuals with Phelan-McDermid syndrome, including 11 individuals with large (2 to 5.8 Mb) 22q13.3 deletions, 10 with small deletions (< 1 Mb) or intragenic variants in SHANK3 and one mosaic case. We describe a novel genome-wide DNA methylation epi-signature in a subset of individuals with Phelan-McDermid syndrome. Conclusion We identified the critical region including the BRD1 gene as responsible for the Phelan-McDermid syndrome epi-signature. Metabolomic profiles of individuals with the DNA methylation epi-signature showed significantly different metabolomic profiles indicating evidence of two molecularly and phenotypically distinct clinical subtypes of Phelan-McDermid syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Schenkel
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Molecular Diagnostics Division, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, N6A5W9, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Western University, London, ON, N6A3K7, Canada
| | - E Aref-Eshghi
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Molecular Diagnostics Division, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, N6A5W9, Canada
| | - K Rooney
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Molecular Diagnostics Division, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, N6A5W9, Canada
| | - J Kerkhof
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Molecular Diagnostics Division, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, N6A5W9, Canada
| | - M A Levy
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Molecular Diagnostics Division, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, N6A5W9, Canada
| | - H McConkey
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Molecular Diagnostics Division, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, N6A5W9, Canada
| | - R C Rogers
- Greenville Office, Greenwood Genetic Center, Greenville, SC, 29605, USA
| | - K Phelan
- Genetics Laboratory, Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute, Fort Myers, FL, 33816, USA
| | | | - L Jain
- Greenwood Genetic Center, Greenwood, SC, 29646, USA.,Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - R Pauly
- Greenwood Genetic Center, Greenwood, SC, 29646, USA
| | - L Boccuto
- Greenwood Genetic Center, Greenwood, SC, 29646, USA.,Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - B DuPont
- Greenwood Genetic Center, Greenwood, SC, 29646, USA
| | - G Cappuccio
- Department of Translational Medicine, University Federico II, 80131, Naples, NA, Italy.,Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - N Brunetti-Pierri
- Department of Translational Medicine, University Federico II, 80131, Naples, NA, Italy.,Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - C E Schwartz
- Greenwood Genetic Center, Greenwood, SC, 29646, USA.
| | - B Sadikovic
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Molecular Diagnostics Division, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, N6A5W9, Canada. .,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Western University, London, ON, N6A3K7, Canada.
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