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de Reus AJEM, Basak O, Dykstra W, van Asperen JV, van Bodegraven EJ, Hol EM. GFAP-isoforms in the nervous system: Understanding the need for diversity. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2024; 87:102340. [PMID: 38401182 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2024.102340] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) is an intermediate filament (IF) protein expressed in specific types of glial cells in the nervous system. The expression of GFAP is highly regulated during brain development and in neurological diseases. The presence of distinct GFAP-isoforms in various cell types, developmental stages, and diseases indicates that GFAP (post-)transcriptional regulation has a role in glial cell physiology and pathology. GFAP-isoforms differ in sub-cellular localisation, IF-network assembly properties, and IF-dynamics which results in distinct molecular interactions and mechanical properties of the IF-network. Therefore, GFAP (post-)transcriptional regulation is likely a mechanism by which radial glia, astrocytes, and glioma cells can modulate cellular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra J E M de Reus
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Onur Basak
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Werner Dykstra
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jessy V van Asperen
- Institut NeuroMyoGène (INMG), Unité Physiopathologie et Génétique du Neurone et du Muscle, Unversité Claude Bernard Lyon 1 CNRS UMR 5261, INSERM U1315, Lyon, France
| | - Emma J van Bodegraven
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Elly M Hol
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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2
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Virtuoso A, D’Amico G, Scalia F, De Luca C, Papa M, Maugeri G, D’Agata V, Caruso Bavisotto C, D’Amico AG. The Interplay between Glioblastoma Cells and Tumor Microenvironment: New Perspectives for Early Diagnosis and Targeted Cancer Therapy. Brain Sci 2024; 14:331. [PMID: 38671983 PMCID: PMC11048111 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14040331] [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: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) stands out as the most tremendous brain tumor, constituting 60% of primary brain cancers, accompanied by dismal survival rates. Despite advancements in research, therapeutic options remain limited to chemotherapy and surgery. GBM molecular heterogeneity, the intricate interaction with the tumor microenvironment (TME), and non-selective treatments contribute to the neoplastic relapse. Diagnostic challenges arise from GBM advanced-stage detection, necessitating the exploration of novel biomarkers for early diagnosis. Using data from the literature and a bioinformatic tool, the current manuscript delineates the molecular interplay between human GBM, astrocytes, and myeloid cells, underscoring selected protein pathways belonging to astroglia and myeloid lineage, which can be considered for targeted therapies. Moreover, the pivotal role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in orchestrating a favorable microenvironment for cancer progression is highlighted, suggesting their utility in identifying biomarkers for GBM early diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assunta Virtuoso
- Laboratory of Neuronal Networks Morphology and System Biology, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.V.); (C.D.L.); (M.P.)
| | - Giuseppa D’Amico
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostic (BiND), Human Anatomy Section, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.D.); (F.S.)
| | - Federica Scalia
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostic (BiND), Human Anatomy Section, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.D.); (F.S.)
| | - Ciro De Luca
- Laboratory of Neuronal Networks Morphology and System Biology, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.V.); (C.D.L.); (M.P.)
| | - Michele Papa
- Laboratory of Neuronal Networks Morphology and System Biology, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.V.); (C.D.L.); (M.P.)
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (G.M.); (V.D.)
| | - Velia D’Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (G.M.); (V.D.)
| | - Celeste Caruso Bavisotto
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostic (BiND), Human Anatomy Section, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.D.); (F.S.)
- Euro-Mediterranean Institute of Science and Technology (IEMEST), 90139 Palermo, Italy
| | - Agata Grazia D’Amico
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy;
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Bakhtiyari-Ramezani M, Nohekhan M, Akbari ME, Abbasvandi F, Bayat M, Akbari A, Nasiri M. Comparative assessment of direct and indirect cold atmospheric plasma effects, based on helium and argon, on human glioblastoma: an in vitro and in vivo study. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3578. [PMID: 38347045 PMCID: PMC10861458 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54070-4] [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: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent research has highlighted the promising potential of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) in cancer therapy. However, variations in study outcomes are attributed to differences in CAP devices and plasma parameters, which lead to diverse compositions of plasma products, including electrons, charged particles, reactive species, UV light, and heat. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the optimal exposure time, duration, and direction-dependent cellular effects of two CAPs, based on argon and helium gases, on glioblastoma U-87 MG cancer cells and an animal model of GBM. Two plasma jets were used as low-temperature plasma sources in which helium or argon gas was ionized by high voltage (4.5 kV) and frequency (20 kHz). In vitro assessments on human GBM and normal astrocyte cell lines, using MTT assays, flow cytometry analysis, wound healing assays, and immunocytochemistry for Caspase3 and P53 proteins, demonstrated that all studied plasma jets, especially indirect argon CAP, selectively induced apoptosis, hindered tumor cell growth, and inhibited migration. These effects occurred concurrently with increased intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species and decreased total antioxidant capacity in the cells. In vivo results further supported these findings, indicating that single indirect argon and direct helium CAP therapy, equal to high dose Temozolomide treatment, induced tumor cell death in a rat model of GBM. This was concurrent with a reduction in tumor size observed through PET-CT scan imaging and a significant increase in the survival rate. Additionally, there was a decrease in GFAP protein levels, a significant GBM tumor marker, and an increase in P53 protein expression based on immunohistochemical analyses. Furthermore, Ledge beam test analysis revealed general motor function improvement after indirect argon CAP therapy, similar to Temozolomide treatment. Taken together, these results suggest that CAP therapy, using indirect argon and direct helium jets, holds great promise for clinical applications in GBM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdiyeh Bakhtiyari-Ramezani
- Plasma Physics and Nuclear Fusion Research School, Nuclear Science and Technology Research Institute (NSTRI), P.O. Box: 14399-53991, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mojtaba Nohekhan
- Plasma Physics and Nuclear Fusion Research School, Nuclear Science and Technology Research Institute (NSTRI), P.O. Box: 14399-53991, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Fereshteh Abbasvandi
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- ATMP Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdis Bayat
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- ATMP Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atieh Akbari
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meysam Nasiri
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, Damghan University, Damghan, Iran
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4
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Sojka C, Sloan SA. Gliomas: a reflection of temporal gliogenic principles. Commun Biol 2024; 7:156. [PMID: 38321118 PMCID: PMC10847444 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05833-2] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The hijacking of early developmental programs is a canonical feature of gliomas where neoplastic cells resemble neurodevelopmental lineages and possess mechanisms of stem cell resilience. Given these parallels, uncovering how and when in developmental time gliomagenesis intersects with normal trajectories can greatly inform our understanding of tumor biology. Here, we review how elapsing time impacts the developmental principles of astrocyte (AS) and oligodendrocyte (OL) lineages, and how these same temporal programs are replicated, distorted, or circumvented in pathological settings such as gliomas. Additionally, we discuss how normal gliogenic processes can inform our understanding of the temporal progression of gliomagenesis, including when in developmental time gliomas originate, thrive, and can be pushed towards upon therapeutic coercion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Sojka
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Steven A Sloan
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Emory Center for Neurodegenerative Disease, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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5
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Begagić E, Bečulić H, Đuzić N, Džidić-Krivić A, Pugonja R, Muharemović A, Jaganjac B, Salković N, Sefo H, Pojskić M. CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Gene Therapy for Glioblastoma: A Scoping Review. Biomedicines 2024; 12:238. [PMID: 38275409 PMCID: PMC10813360 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12010238] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
This scoping review examines the use of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in glioblastoma (GBM), a predominant and aggressive brain tumor. Categorizing gene targets into distinct groups, this review explores their roles in cell cycle regulation, microenvironmental dynamics, interphase processes, and therapy resistance reduction. The complexity of CRISPR-Cas9 applications in GBM research is highlighted, providing unique insights into apoptosis, cell proliferation, and immune responses within the tumor microenvironment. The studies challenge conventional perspectives on specific genes, emphasizing the potential therapeutic implications of manipulating key molecular players in cell cycle dynamics. Exploring CRISPR/Cas9 gene therapy in GBMs yields significant insights into the regulation of cellular processes, spanning cell interphase, renewal, and migration. Researchers, by precisely targeting specific genes, uncover the molecular orchestration governing cell proliferation, growth, and differentiation during critical phases of the cell cycle. The findings underscore the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 technology in unraveling the complex dynamics of the GBM microenvironment, offering promising avenues for targeted therapies to curb GBM growth. This review also outlines studies addressing therapy resistance in GBM, employing CRISPR/Cas9 to target genes associated with chemotherapy resistance, showcasing its transformative potential in effective GBM treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emir Begagić
- Department of General Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zenica, Travnička 1, 72000 Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Hakija Bečulić
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cantonal Hospital Zenica, Crkvice 67, 72000 Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Zenica, Travnička 1, 72000 Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Nermin Đuzić
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, International Burch University Sarajevo, Francuske revolucije BB, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Amina Džidić-Krivić
- Department of Neurology, Cantonal Hospital Zenica, Crkvice 67, 72000 Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Ragib Pugonja
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cantonal Hospital Zenica, Crkvice 67, 72000 Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Asja Muharemović
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, International Burch University Sarajevo, Francuske revolucije BB, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Belma Jaganjac
- Department of Histology, School of Medicine, University of Zenica, Travnička 1, 72000 Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Naida Salković
- Department of General Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Tuzla, Univerzitetska 1, 75000 Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina;
| | - Haso Sefo
- Clinic of Neurosurgery, University Clinical Center Sarajevo, Bolnička 25, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Mirza Pojskić
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Marburg, Baldingerstr., 35033 Marburg, Germany;
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6
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Cui X, Yao A, Jia L. Starvation insult induces the translocation of high mobility group box 1 to cytosolic compartments in glioma. Oncol Rep 2023; 50:216. [PMID: 37888772 PMCID: PMC10636726 DOI: 10.3892/or.2023.8653] [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: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is a highly conserved and ubiquitous nuclear protein in eukaryotic cells. In response to stress, it transfers from the nucleus to the cytoplasm and finally, to the extracellular matrix, participating in inflammation and carcinogenesis. Increased HMGB1 protein levels are frequently associated with the reduced survival of patients with glioma. HMGB1 plays contextual roles depending on its subcellular localization. However, the mechanisms underlying its subcellular localization and secretion remain unclear. In the present study, the subcellular localization and secretion of HMGB1 in starved glioma cells were investigated using immunofluorescence microscopy, enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay, subcellular fractionation, western blotting and immunoelectron microscopy. The results demonstrated that starvation induced HMGB1 translocation from the nucleus to the cytoplasm and finally, to the extracellular milieu in glioma cells. HMGB1 was localized in the mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), peroxisomes, autophagosomes, lysosomes, endosomes and the cytoskeleton. Immunoelectron microscopy confirmed that HMGB1 was present within or around cytosolic compartments. Subcellular fractionation further demonstrated that HMGB1 transferred to membrane‑bound compartments. In addition, HMGB1 was localized to specific contact areas between the ER and mitochondria, known as mitochondria‑associated membranes. On the whole, the results of the present study suggest that starvation induces HMGB1 secretion, which can be inhibited through the suppression of autophagy. Starvation insult induces HMGB1 translocation to the cytosolic compartments of glioma cells, and autophagy may be involved in the extracellular secretion of HMGB1 in starved glioma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohang Cui
- Department of Medical Genetics and Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, P.R. China
| | - Anhui Yao
- Department of Neurosurgery, 988th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force of PLA, Zhengzhou, Henan 450053, P.R. China
| | - Liyun Jia
- Department of Medical Genetics and Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, P.R. China
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7
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Schwarz N, Leube RE. Plasticity of cytoplasmic intermediate filament architecture determines cellular functions. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2023; 85:102270. [PMID: 37918274 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2023.102270] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Cytoplasmic intermediate filaments endow cells with mechanical stability. They are subject to changes in morphology and composition if needed. This remodeling encompasses entire cells but can also be restricted to specific intracellular regions. Intermediate filaments thereby support spatially and temporally defined cell type-specific functions. This review focuses on recent advances in our understanding of how intermediate filament dynamics affect the underlying regulatory pathways. We will elaborate on the role of intermediate filaments for the formation and maintenance of surface specializations, cell migration, contractility, organelle positioning, nucleus protection, stress responses and axonal conduction velocity. Together, the selected examples highlight the modulatory role of intermediate filament plasticity for multiple cellular functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Schwarz
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Rudolf E Leube
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
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8
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Simone L, Capobianco DL, Di Palma F, Binda E, Legnani FG, Vescovi AL, Svelto M, Pisani F. GFAP serves as a structural element of tunneling nanotubes between glioblastoma cells and could play a role in the intercellular transfer of mitochondria. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1221671. [PMID: 37886397 PMCID: PMC10598779 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1221671] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are long F-actin-positive plasma membrane bridges connecting distant cells, allowing the intercellular transfer of cellular cargoes, and are found to be involved in glioblastoma (GBM) intercellular crosstalk. Glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP) is a key intermediate filament protein of glial cells involved in cytoskeleton remodeling and linked to GBM progression. Whether GFAP plays a role in TNT structure and function in GBM is unknown. Here, analyzing F-actin and GFAP localization by laser-scan confocal microscopy followed by 3D reconstruction (3D-LSCM) and mitochondria dynamic by live-cell time-lapse fluorescence microscopy, we show the presence of GFAP in TNTs containing functional mitochondria connecting distant human GBM cells. Taking advantage of super-resolution 3D-LSCM, we show the presence of GFAP-positive TNT-like structures in resected human GBM as well. Using H2O2 or the pro-apoptotic toxin staurosporine (STS), we show that GFAP-positive TNTs strongly increase during oxidative stress and apoptosis in the GBM cell line. Culturing GBM cells with STS-treated GBM cells, we show that STS triggers the formation of GFAP-positive TNTs between them. Finally, we provide evidence that mitochondria co-localize with GFAP at the tip of close-ended GFAP-positive TNTs and inside receiving STS-GBM cells. Summarizing, here we found that GFAP is a structural component of TNTs generated by GBM cells, that GFAP-positive TNTs are upregulated in response to oxidative stress and pro-apoptotic stress, and that GFAP interacts with mitochondria during the intercellular transfer. These findings contribute to elucidate the molecular structure of TNTs generated by GBM cells, highlighting the structural role of GFAP in TNTs and suggesting a functional role of this intermediate filament component in the intercellular mitochondria transfer between GBM cells in response to pro-apoptotic stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. Simone
- Cancer Stem Cells Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - D. L. Capobianco
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - F. Di Palma
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - E. Binda
- Cancer Stem Cells Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - F. G. Legnani
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neurologic Institute IRCCS Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - A. L. Vescovi
- Cellular Reprogramming Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - M. Svelto
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
- Institute of Biomembranes and Bioenergetics, National Research Council, Bari, Italy
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), Rome, Italy
| | - F. Pisani
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
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Familiari P, Relucenti M, Lapolla P, Palmieri M, Antonelli M, Cristiano L, Barbaranelli C, Catalano M, D'Angelo L, Familiari G, Santoro A, Frati A, Bruzzaniti P. Adult IDH Wild-Type Glioblastoma Ultrastructural Investigation Suggests a Possible Correlation between Morphological Biomarkers and Ki-67 Index. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1968. [PMID: 37509607 PMCID: PMC10377045 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071968] [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: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is an aggressive brain tumor with an average life expectancy between 14 and 16 months after diagnosis. The Ki-67 labeling index (LI), a measure of cellular proliferation, is emerging as a prognostic marker in GBM. In this study, we investigated the ultrastructure of glioblastoma tissue from 9 patients with the same molecular profile (adult IDH wild-type glioblastoma, wild-type ATRX, and positive for TP53 expression, GFAP expression, and EGFR overexpression) to find possible ultrastructural features to be used as biomarkers and correlated with the only parameter that differs among our samples, the Ki-67 LI. Our main results were the visualization of the anatomical basis of astrocyte-endothelial cells crosstalk; the ultrastructural in situ imaging of clusters of hyperactivated microglia cells (MsEVs); the ultrastructural in situ imaging of microglia cells storing lipid vesicles (MsLVs); the ultrastructural in situ imaging of neoplastic cells mitophagy (NCsM). The statistical analysis of our data indicated that MsEVs and MsLVs correlate with the Ki-67 LI value. We can thus assume they are good candidates to be considered morphological biomarkers correlating to Ki-67 LI. The role of NCsM instead must be further evaluated. Our study findings demonstrate that by combining ultrastructural characteristics with molecular information, we can discover biomarkers that have the potential to enhance diagnostic precision, aid in treatment decision-making, identify targets for therapy, and enable personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient. However, further research with larger sample sizes is needed to validate these findings and fully utilize the potential of ultrastructural analysis in managing glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Familiari
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Policlinico Umberto I University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Relucenti
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine, and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Lapolla
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Policlinico Umberto I University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Mauro Palmieri
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Policlinico Umberto I University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Manila Antonelli
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anatomo-Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Cristiano
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | | | - Myriam Catalano
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca D'Angelo
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Policlinico Umberto I University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Familiari
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine, and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Santoro
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Policlinico Umberto I University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Frati
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Policlinico Umberto I University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Neuromed, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Placido Bruzzaniti
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Policlinico Umberto I University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Fabrizio Spaziani Hospital, 03100 Frosinone, Italy
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10
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Almagro J, Messal HA. Volume imaging to interrogate cancer cell-tumor microenvironment interactions in space and time. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1176594. [PMID: 37261345 PMCID: PMC10228654 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1176594] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Volume imaging visualizes the three-dimensional (3D) complexity of tumors to unravel the dynamic crosstalk between cancer cells and the heterogeneous landscape of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Tissue clearing and intravital microscopy (IVM) constitute rapidly progressing technologies to study the architectural context of such interactions. Tissue clearing enables high-resolution imaging of large samples, allowing for the characterization of entire tumors and even organs and organisms with tumors. With IVM, the dynamic engagement between cancer cells and the TME can be visualized in 3D over time, allowing for acquisition of 4D data. Together, tissue clearing and IVM have been critical in the examination of cancer-TME interactions and have drastically advanced our knowledge in fundamental cancer research and clinical oncology. This review provides an overview of the current technical repertoire of fluorescence volume imaging technologies to study cancer and the TME, and discusses how their recent applications have been utilized to advance our fundamental understanding of tumor architecture, stromal and immune infiltration, vascularization and innervation, and to explore avenues for immunotherapy and optimized chemotherapy delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Almagro
- Robin Chemers Neustein Laboratory of Mammalian Cell Biology and Development, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Hendrik A. Messal
- Division of Molecular Pathology, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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11
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Croci D, Zomer A, Kowal J, Joyce JA. Cranial imaging window implantation technique for longitudinal multimodal imaging of the brain environment in live mice. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102197. [PMID: 36964905 PMCID: PMC10050773 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102197] [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: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Intravital two-photon microscopy of the mouse brain requires visual access without affecting normal cognitive functions, which is crucial for longitudinal imaging studies that may last several months. In this protocol, we describe the surgical implantation of a metal-free cranial imaging window, which can be used to perform two-photon microscopy and magnetic resonance imaging in the same animal. This multimodal imaging platform enables the investigation of dynamic processes in the central nervous system at a cellular and macroscopic level. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol in the context of brain cancer, please refer to Zomer et al.1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Croci
- Department of Oncology, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Agora Cancer Research Centre Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anoek Zomer
- Department of Oncology, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Agora Cancer Research Centre Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Joanna Kowal
- Department of Oncology, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Agora Cancer Research Centre Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Johanna A Joyce
- Department of Oncology, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Agora Cancer Research Centre Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; L. Lundin and Family Brain Tumor Research Center, Departments of Oncology and Clinical Neurosciences, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland.
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12
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Mohammed AS, Uversky VN. Intrinsic Disorder as a Natural Preservative: High Levels of Intrinsic Disorder in Proteins Found in the 2600-Year-Old Human Brain. Biology (Basel) 2022; 11:biology11121704. [PMID: 36552214 PMCID: PMC9775155 DOI: 10.3390/biology11121704] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Proteomic analysis revealed the preservation of many proteins in the Heslington brain (which is at least 2600-year-old brain tissue uncovered within the skull excavated in 2008 from a pit in Heslington, Yorkshire, England). Five of these proteins-"main proteins": heavy, medium, and light neurofilament proteins (NFH, NFM, and NFL), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and myelin basic (MBP) protein-are engaged in the formation of non-amyloid protein aggregates, such as intermediate filaments and myelin sheath. We used a wide spectrum of bioinformatics tools to evaluate the prevalence of functional disorder in several related sets of proteins, such as the main proteins and their 44 interactors, all other proteins identified in the Heslington brain, as well as the entire human proteome (20,317 manually curated proteins), and 10,611 brain proteins. These analyses revealed that all five main proteins, half of their interactors and almost one third of the Heslington brain proteins are expected to be mostly disordered. Furthermore, most of the remaining Heslington brain proteins are expected to contain sizable levels of disorder. This is contrary to the expected substantial (if not complete) elimination of the disordered proteins from the Heslington brain. Therefore, it seems that the intrinsic disorder of NFH, NFM, NFL, GFAP, and MBP, their interactors, and many other proteins might play a crucial role in preserving the Heslington brain by forming tightly folded brain protein aggregates, in which different parts are glued together via the disorder-to-order transitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron S. Mohammed
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. MDC07, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Vladimir N. Uversky
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. MDC07, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
- USF Health Byrd Alzheimer’s Research Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-813-974-5816; Fax: +1-813-974-7357
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13
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van Asperen JV, van Bodegraven EJ, Robe PA, Hol EM. Determining glioma cell invasion and proliferation in ex vivo organotypic mouse brain slices using whole-mount immunostaining and tissue clearing. STAR Protoc 2022; 3:101703. [PMID: 36136755 PMCID: PMC9508478 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2022.101703] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The ex vivo organotypic brain slice invasion model is commonly used to study the growth dynamics of gliomas, primary brain tumors that are known for their invasive behavior. Here, we describe a protocol where the ex vivo organotypic mouse brain slice invasion model is combined with whole-mount immunostaining, tissue clearing, and 3D reconstruction, to visualize and quantify the invasion of glioma cells. In addition, we describe an approach to determine the proliferation rate of the cells within this model. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Uceda-Castro et al. (2022).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessy V. van Asperen
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, University Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands,Corresponding author
| | - Emma J. van Bodegraven
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, University Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Pierre A.J.T. Robe
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, University Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Elly M. Hol
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, University Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands,Corresponding author
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14
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Zeneyedpour L, Stingl C, Kros JM, Sillevis Smitt PAE, Luider TM. Novel Antibody-Peptide Binding Assay Indicates Presence of Immunoglobulins against EGFR Phospho-Site S1166 in High-Grade Glioma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:5061. [PMID: 35563452 PMCID: PMC9100080 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated the feasibility of detecting the presence of specific autoantibodies against potential tumor-associated peptide antigens by enriching these antibody-peptide complexes using Melon Gel resin and mass spectrometry. Our goal was to find tumor-associated phospho-sites that trigger immunoreactions and raise autoantibodies that are detectable in plasma of glioma patients. Such immunoglobulins can potentially be used as targets in immunotherapy. To that aim, we describe a method to detect the presence of antibodies in biological samples that are specific to selected clinically relevant peptides. The method is based on the formation of antibody-peptide complexes by mixing patient plasma with a glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) derived peptide library, enrichment of antibodies and antibody-peptide complexes, the separation of peptides after they are released from immunoglobulins by molecular weight filtration and finally mass spectrometric quantification of these peptides. As proof of concept, we successfully applied the method to dinitrophenyl (DNP)-labeled α-casein peptides mixed with anti-DNP. Further, we incubated human plasma with a phospho-peptide library and conducted targeted analysis on EGFR and GFAP phospho-peptides. As a result, immunoaffinity against phospho-peptide GSHQIS[+80]LDNPDYQQDFFPK (EGFR phospho-site S1166) was detected in high-grade glioma (HGG) patient plasma but not in healthy donor plasma. For the GFAP phospho-sites selected, such immunoaffinity was not observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lona Zeneyedpour
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (L.Z.); (C.S.); (P.A.E.S.S.)
| | - Christoph Stingl
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (L.Z.); (C.S.); (P.A.E.S.S.)
| | - Johan M. Kros
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands;
| | | | - Theo M. Luider
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (L.Z.); (C.S.); (P.A.E.S.S.)
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15
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Priambada D, Arifin MT, Briliantika SP, Widyaningrum D, Saputro A, El Muzakka AT, Bakhtiar Y, Prihastomo KT, Muttaqin Z. Serum GFAP and EGFR as Supportive Diagnostic Biomarker of Glioma Patients: A Single-Center Study. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.9021] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background : High grade Gliomas (HGGs) (World Health Organization grade III and IV) are aggressive brain tumors with a poor prognosis. Serum concentrations of GFAP and EGFR are theoretically raised in glioma patients, especially primary HGGs
Aim : To look at serum levels of GFAP and EGFR in patients with Gliomas (Low Grade and High-Grade Glioma) and see if they were related to clinical outcome, MRI parameter and pathological features.
Method : Between 2020-2021, pre-operative blood samples were taken from 39 patients with radiologically diagnosed glioma who were performed for tumour excision. The time between blood collection and surgical resection was an average of 10 days. GFAP and EGFR serum were compared in glioma and non-glioma patients.
Result : Glioma patients had average of serum GFAP 747.93 + 1349.49 pg/ml and average of Serum EGFR 9.25 + 3.17 ng/ml. Non glioma average of GFAP and EGFR respectively were 292.91 + 369.30 pg/ml and 7.81 + 3.38 ng/ml.From all variable, we performed normality test using the Saphiro-wilk normality test and all variable were no normally distribution with p<0.05
Conclusion : Circulating GFAP and EGFR are promising method for “supportive” methods for differentiate between glioma and non-glioma patients, especially high grade glioma
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16
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Radu R, Petrescu GED, Gorgan RM, Brehar FM. GFAPδ: A Promising Biomarker and Therapeutic Target in Glioblastoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:859247. [PMID: 35372061 PMCID: PMC8971704 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.859247] [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: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
GFAPδ, the delta isoform of the glial fibrillary acidic protein, is mainly expressed in the subventricular zone of the brain, together with other neural stem cell markers like nestin. The authors of this paper were among the first that described in detail the expression of GFAPδ and its correlation with malignancy and invasiveness in cerebral astrocytoma. Later, several papers confirmed these findings, showing that the alternative splice variant GFAPδ is overexpressed in glioblastoma (CNS WHO grade 4) compared with lower grade gliomas. Other studies suggested that a high GFAPδ/α ratio is associated with a more malignant and invasive behavior of glioma cells. Moreover, the changing of GFAPδ/α ratio affects the expression of high-malignant genes. It is now suggested that discriminating between predominant GFAP isoforms, GFAPδ or GFAPα, is useful for assessing the malignancy state of astrocytoma, and may even contribute to the classification of gliomas. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to review the literature with emphasize on the role of GFAPδ as a potential biomarker, and as a possible therapeutic target in glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana Radu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Neurosurgery, Bagdasar-Arseni Clinical Emergency Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - George E. D. Petrescu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Neurosurgery, Bagdasar-Arseni Clinical Emergency Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
- *Correspondence: George E. D. Petrescu,
| | - Radu M. Gorgan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Neurosurgery, Bagdasar-Arseni Clinical Emergency Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Felix M. Brehar
- Department of Neurosurgery, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Neurosurgery, Bagdasar-Arseni Clinical Emergency Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
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17
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van Asperen JV, Robe PA, Hol EM. GFAP Alternative Splicing and the Relevance for Disease – A Focus on Diffuse Gliomas. ASN Neuro 2022; 14:17590914221102065. [PMID: 35673702 PMCID: PMC9185002 DOI: 10.1177/17590914221102065] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) is an intermediate filament protein that is
characteristic for astrocytes and neural stem cells, and their malignant analogues in
glioma. Since the discovery of the protein 50 years ago, multiple alternative splice
variants of the GFAP gene have been discovered, leading to different GFAP isoforms. In
this review, we will describe GFAP isoform expression from gene to protein to network,
taking the canonical isoforms GFAPα and the main alternative variant GFAPδ as the starting
point. We will discuss the relevance of studying GFAP and its isoforms in disease, with a
specific focus on diffuse gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessy V. van Asperen
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Pierre A.J.T. Robe
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, University Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Elly M. Hol
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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