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Cui Z, Shen W, Sun X, Li Y, Liu Y, Sun Z. Developing and evaluating a predictive model for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia based on UGT1A1 gene polymorphism and clinical risk factors. Front Pediatr 2024; 12:1345602. [PMID: 38487473 PMCID: PMC10937529 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1345602] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (NHB) is one of the most common diseases in the neonatal period. Without timely diagnosis and treatment, it can lead to long-term complications. In severe cases, it may even result in fatality. The UGT1A1 gene and clinical risk factors play important roles in the development and progression of NHB. Methods In this study, we conducted a cohort study and analyzed 3258 newborns from the Jilin Women And Children Health Hospital in northern China, including 372 children with hyperbilirubinemia. We established a predictive model using a logistic regression model based on clinical risk factors and the polymorphism of the G211A locus in the UGT1A1 gene of newborns. Furthermore, the performance of the prediction model was evaluated using the ROC curve. Results The logistic regression model indicates that the following factors are associated with an increased risk of NHB: the time when stool turns yellow [P ≤ 0.001, OR 1.266 (95% CI: 1.125-1.425)]; neonatal cephalohematoma [P ≤ 0.001, OR 33.642 (95% CI: 21.823-51.861)]; hemolytic disease of newborn [P ≤ 0.001, OR 33.849 (95% CI: 18.589-61.636)]; neonatal weight loss [P ≤ 0.001, OR 11.275 (95% CI: 7.842-16.209)]; neonatal premature rupture of membranes (PROM) history [P = 0.021, OR 1.422 (95% CI: 1.056-1.917)]; genetic polymorphism at the UGT1A1 gene G211A locus. Gestational age is a protective factor [P ≤ 0.001, OR 0.766 (95% CI: 0.686-0.855)]. Compared to natural labor, cesarean section is a protective factor [P = 0.011, OR 0.711 (95% CI: 0.546-0.926)], while assisted delivery is a risk factor [P = 0.022, OR 2.207 (95% CI: 1.121-4.346)]. The area under the curve (AUC) of this prediction model is 0.804 (95% CI: 0.777-0.831), indicating good discrimination ability and value for predicting the risk of NHB after birth. Conclusion We have developed and evaluated a predictive model that combines UGT1A1 gene polymorphism and clinical risk factors for the first time. By using this nomogram and taking into account the results of serum total bilirubin measurement or transcutaneous bilirubin measurement, early prediction of the risk of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia can be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyang Cui
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wensheng Shen
- Department of Neonatology, Jilin Women and Children Health Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Xuetong Sun
- NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhiyong Sun
- Department of Neonatology, Jilin Women and Children Health Hospital, Changchun, China
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Greig JA, Chorazeczewski JK, Chowdhary V, Smith MK, Jennis M, Tarrant JC, Buza EL, Coughlan K, Martini PG, Wilson JM. Lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated mRNA therapy corrects serum total bilirubin level in Crigler-Najjar syndrome mouse model. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2023; 29:32-39. [PMID: 36936447 PMCID: PMC10017950 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2023.02.007] [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: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Crigler-Najjar syndrome is a rare disorder of bilirubin metabolism caused by uridine diphosphate glucuronosyl transferase 1A1 (UGT1A1) mutations characterized by hyperbilirubinemia and jaundice. No cure currently exists; treatment options are limited to phototherapy, whose effectiveness diminishes over time, and liver transplantation. Here, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of systemically administered, lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated human UGT1A1 (hUGT1A1) mRNA therapy in a Crigler-Najjar mouse model. Ugt1 knockout mice were rescued from lethal post-natal hyperbilirubinemia by phototherapy. These adult Ugt1 knockout mice were then administered a single lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated hUGT1A1 mRNA dose. Within 24 h, serum total bilirubin levels decreased from 15 mg/dL (256 μmol/L) to <0.5 mg/dL (9 μmol/L), i.e., slightly above wild-type levels. This reduction was sustained for 2 weeks before bilirubin levels rose and returned to pre-treatment levels by day 42 post-administration. Sustained reductions in total bilirubin levels were achieved by repeated administration of the mRNA product in a frequency-dependent manner. We were also able to rescue the neonatal lethality phenotype seen in Ugt1 knockout mice with a single lipid nanoparticle dose, which suggests that this may be a treatment modality appropriate for metabolic crisis situations. Therefore, lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated hUGT1A1 mRNA may represent a potential treatment for Crigler-Najjar syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny A. Greig
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Vivek Chowdhary
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Melanie K. Smith
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Matthew Jennis
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - James C. Tarrant
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth L. Buza
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | - James M. Wilson
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Corresponding author. James M. Wilson, MD, PhD, Gene Therapy Program, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 125 South 31st Street, Suite 1200, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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3
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Wu C, Jin Y, Cui Y, Zhu Y, Yin S, Li C. Effects of bilirubin on the development and electrical activity of neural circuits. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1136250. [PMID: 37025700 PMCID: PMC10070809 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1136250] [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: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In the past several decades, bilirubin has attracted great attention for central nervous system (CNS) toxicity in some pathological conditions with severely elevated bilirubin levels. CNS function relies on the structural and functional integrity of neural circuits, which are large and complex electrochemical networks. Neural circuits develop from the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells, followed by dendritic and axonal arborization, myelination, and synapse formation. The circuits are immature, but robustly developing, during the neonatal period. It is at the same time that physiological or pathological jaundice occurs. The present review comprehensively discusses the effects of bilirubin on the development and electrical activity of neural circuits to provide a systematic understanding of the underlying mechanisms of bilirubin-induced acute neurotoxicity and chronic neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Banerjee B, Olajide OJ, Bortolussi G, Muro AF. Activation of Alternative Bilirubin Clearance Pathways Partially Reduces Hyperbilirubinemia in a Mouse Model Lacking Functional Ugt1a1 Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810703. [PMID: 36142606 PMCID: PMC9505366 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810703] [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: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Bilirubin is a heme catabolite and Ugt1a1 is the only enzyme involved in the biological elimination of bilirubin. Partially functional or non-functional Ugt1a1 may result in neuronal damage and death due to the accumulation of unconjugated bilirubin in the brain. The understanding of the role of alternative bilirubin detoxification mechanisms that can reduce bilirubin toxicity risk is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies. To provide a proof-of-principle showing whether activation of alternative detoxification pathways could lead to life-compatible bilirubin levels in the absence of Ugt1a1 activity, we used Ugt1−/− hyperbilirubinemic mice devoid of bilirubin glucuronidation activity. We treated adult Ugt1−/− mice with TCPOBOP, a strong agonist of the constitutive androstane receptor (CAR). TCPOBOP treatment decreased plasma and liver tissue bilirubin levels by about 38%, and resulted in the transcriptional activation of a vast array of genes involved in bilirubin transport and metabolism. However, brain bilirubin level was unaltered. We observed ~40% degradation of bilirubin in the liver microsomes from TCPOBOP treated Ugt1−/− mice. Our findings suggest that, in the absence of Ugt1a1, the activation of alternative bilirubin clearance pathways can partially improve hyperbilirubinemic conditions. This therapeutic approach may only be considered in a combinatorial manner along with other treatments.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Hyperbilirubinemia is commonly seen in neonates. Though hyperbilirubinemia is typically asymptomatic, severe elevation of bilirubin levels can lead to acute bilirubin encephalopathy and progress to kernicterus spectrum disorder, a chronic condition characterized by hearing loss, extrapyramidal dysfunction, ophthalmoplegia, and enamel hypoplasia. Epidemiological data show that the implementation of universal pre-discharge bilirubin screening programs has reduced the rates of hyperbilirubinemia-associated complications. However, acute bilirubin encephalopathy and kernicterus spectrum disorder are still particularly common in low- and middle-income countries. RECENT FINDINGS The understanding of the genetic and biochemical processes that increase the susceptibility of defined anatomical areas of the central nervous system to the deleterious effects of bilirubin may facilitate the development of effective treatments for acute bilirubin encephalopathy and kernicterus spectrum disorder. Scoring systems are available for the diagnosis and severity grading of these conditions. The treatment of hyperbilirubinemia in newborns relies on the use of phototherapy and exchange transfusion. However, novel therapeutic options including deep brain stimulation, brain-computer interface, and stem cell transplantation may alleviate the heavy disease burden associated with kernicterus spectrum disorder. Despite improved screening and treatment options, the prevalence of acute bilirubin encephalopathy and kernicterus spectrum disorder remains elevated in low- and middle-income countries. The continued presence and associated long-term disability of these conditions warrant further research to improve their prevention and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Qian
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, 912 S Wood St, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| | - Prateek Kumar
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, 912 S Wood St, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Fernando D Testai
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, 912 S Wood St, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
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Bortolussi G, Shi X, ten Bloemendaal L, Banerjee B, De Waart DR, Baj G, Chen W, Oude Elferink RP, Beuers U, Paulusma CC, Stocker R, Muro AF, Bosma PJ. Long-Term Effects of Biliverdin Reductase a Deficiency in Ugt1-/- Mice: Impact on Redox Status and Metabolism. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10122029. [PMID: 34943131 PMCID: PMC8698966 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10122029] [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: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulation of neurotoxic bilirubin due to a transient neonatal or persistent inherited deficiency of bilirubin glucuronidation activity can cause irreversible brain damage and death. Strategies to inhibit bilirubin production and prevent neurotoxicity in neonatal and adult settings seem promising. We evaluated the impact of Bvra deficiency in neonatal and aged mice, in a background of unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia, by abolishing bilirubin production. We also investigated the disposal of biliverdin during fetal development. In Ugt1−/− mice, Bvra deficiency appeared sufficient to prevent lethality and to normalize bilirubin level in adults. Although biliverdin accumulated in Bvra-deficient fetuses, both Bvra−/− and Bvra−/−Ugt1−/− pups were healthy and reached adulthood having normal liver, brain, and spleen histology, albeit with increased iron levels in the latter. During aging, both Bvra−/− and Bvra−/−Ugt1−/− mice presented normal levels of relevant hematological and metabolic parameters. Interestingly, the oxidative status in erythrocytes from 9-months-old Bvra−/− and Bvra−/−Ugt1−/− mice was significantly reduced. In addition, triglycerides levels in these 9-months-old Bvra−/− mice were significantly higher than WT controls, while Bvra−/−Ugt1−/− tested normal. The normal parameters observed in Bvra−/−Ugt1−/− mice fed chow diet indicate that Bvra inhibition to treat unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia seems safe and effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Bortolussi
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (G.B.); (B.B.)
| | - Xiaoxia Shi
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (X.S.); (L.t.B.); (D.R.D.W.); (R.P.O.E.); (U.B.); (C.C.P.)
- Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Disease, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Lysbeth ten Bloemendaal
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (X.S.); (L.t.B.); (D.R.D.W.); (R.P.O.E.); (U.B.); (C.C.P.)
| | - Bhaswati Banerjee
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (G.B.); (B.B.)
| | - Dirk R. De Waart
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (X.S.); (L.t.B.); (D.R.D.W.); (R.P.O.E.); (U.B.); (C.C.P.)
| | - Gabriele Baj
- Light Microscopy Imaging Center, Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Weiyu Chen
- Heart Research Institute, Sydney, NSW 2042, Australia; (W.C.); (R.S.)
| | - Ronald P. Oude Elferink
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (X.S.); (L.t.B.); (D.R.D.W.); (R.P.O.E.); (U.B.); (C.C.P.)
| | - Ulrich Beuers
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (X.S.); (L.t.B.); (D.R.D.W.); (R.P.O.E.); (U.B.); (C.C.P.)
| | - Coen C. Paulusma
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (X.S.); (L.t.B.); (D.R.D.W.); (R.P.O.E.); (U.B.); (C.C.P.)
| | - Roland Stocker
- Heart Research Institute, Sydney, NSW 2042, Australia; (W.C.); (R.S.)
| | - Andrés F. Muro
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (G.B.); (B.B.)
- Correspondence: (A.F.M.); (P.J.B.); Tel.: +39-040-3757369 (A.F.M.); +31-20-566-8850 (P.J.B.)
| | - Piter J. Bosma
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (X.S.); (L.t.B.); (D.R.D.W.); (R.P.O.E.); (U.B.); (C.C.P.)
- Correspondence: (A.F.M.); (P.J.B.); Tel.: +39-040-3757369 (A.F.M.); +31-20-566-8850 (P.J.B.)
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Li Y, Liu H, Chen K, Wu X, Wu J, Yang Z, Yao L, Wen G, Zhang C, Chen X, Chen X, Tang D, Wang X, Liu J. Pathological Significance and Prognostic Roles of Indirect Bilirubin/Albumin Ratio in Hepatic Encephalopathy. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:706407. [PMID: 34527681 PMCID: PMC8435674 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.706407] [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] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a neurological disease caused by severe liver disease. Early identification of the risk factor is beneficial to the prevention and treatment of HE. Free bilirubin has always been considered to be the culprit of neonatal kernicterus, but there is no research to explore its role in HE. In this study, we aim to study the clinical significance of the indirect bilirubin-albumin ratio in HE. Methods: A retrospective case-control study of 204 patients with liver failure was conducted. Human serum albumin (HSA) or heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) inhibitor SnPP (Tin protoporphyrin IX dichloride) was injected intraperitoneally into Ugt1−/− mice to establish a treatment model for endogenous hyperbilirubinemia. Results: IBil/albumin ratio (OR = 1.626, 95% CI1.323–2.000, P < 0.001), white blood cell (WBC) (OR = 1.128, 95% CI 1.009–1.262, P = 0.035), ammonia (OR = 1.010, 95% CI 1.001–1.019, P = 0.027), platelet (OR=1.008, 95% CI 1.001–1.016, P = 0.022), Hb (OR = 0.977, 95% CI 0.961–0.994, P = 0.007), and PTA (OR = 0.960, 95% CI 0.933–0.987, P = 0.005) were independent factors of HE. Patients with a history of liver cirrhosis and severe HE (OR = 12.323, 95% CI 3.278–47.076, P < 0.001) were more likely to die during hospitalization. HSA or SnPP treatment improved cerebellum development and reduced apoptosis of cerebellum cells. Conclusion: The IBil/albumin ratio constitutes the most powerful risk factor in the occurrence of HE, and reducing free bilirubin may be a new strategy for HE treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanling Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Protein Modification and Degradation Lab, State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huiyuan Liu
- Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Keng Chen
- Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xueheng Wu
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Protein Modification and Degradation Lab, State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiawen Wu
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Protein Modification and Degradation Lab, State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenjun Yang
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Protein Modification and Degradation Lab, State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Leyi Yao
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Protein Modification and Degradation Lab, State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Digestive Disease of Guangzhou Medical University, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan, China
| | - Guanmei Wen
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Protein Modification and Degradation Lab, State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Change Zhang
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Protein Modification and Degradation Lab, State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Protein Modification and Degradation Lab, State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohui Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Daolin Tang
- Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Xuejun Wang
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Vermillion, SD, United States
| | - Jinbao Liu
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Protein Modification and Degradation Lab, State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Digestive Disease of Guangzhou Medical University, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan, China
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Shi X, Bortolussi G, Bloemendaal LT, Duijst S, Muro AF, Bosma PJ. Low efficacy of recombinant SV40 in Ugt1a1-/- mice with severe inherited hyperbilirubinemia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250605. [PMID: 33891666 PMCID: PMC8064607 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250605] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In contrast to AAV, Simian Virus 40 (rSV40) not inducing neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) allowing re-treatment seems a promising vector for neonatal treatment of inherited liver disorders. Several studies have reported efficacy of rSV40 in animal models for inherited liver diseases. In all studies the ubiquitous endogenous early promoter controlled transgene expression establishing expression in all transduced tissues. Restricting this expression to the target tissues reduces the risk of immune response to the therapeutic gene. In this study a liver specific rSV40 vector was generated by inserting a hepatocyte specific promoter. This increased the specificity of the expression of hUGT1A1 in vitro. However, in vivo the efficacy of rSV40 appeared too low to demonstrate tissue specificity while increasing the vector dose was not possible because of toxicity. In contrast to earlier studies, neutralizing antibodies were induced. Overall, the lack of a platform to produce high titered and pure rSV40 particles and the induction of NAbs, renders it a poor candidate for in vivo gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxia Shi
- Amsterdam UMC, Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, AGEM, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | - Giulia Bortolussi
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Trieste, Italy
| | - Lysbeth ten Bloemendaal
- Amsterdam UMC, Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, AGEM, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Suzanne Duijst
- Amsterdam UMC, Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, AGEM, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andrés F. Muro
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Trieste, Italy
| | - Piter J. Bosma
- Amsterdam UMC, Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, AGEM, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Vaz AR, Falcão AS, Scarpa E, Semproni C, Brites D. Microglia Susceptibility to Free Bilirubin Is Age-Dependent. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:1012. [PMID: 32765258 PMCID: PMC7381152 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased concentrations of unconjugated bilirubin (UCB), namely its free fraction (Bf), in neonatal life may cause transient or definitive injury to neurons and glial cells. We demonstrated that UCB damages neurons and glial cells by compromising oligodendrocyte maturation and myelination, and by activating astrocytes and microglia. Immature neurons and astrocytes showed to be especially vulnerable. However, whether microglia susceptibility to UCB is also age-related was never investigated. We developed a microglia culture model in which cells at 2 days in vitro (2DIV) revealed to behave as the neonatal microglia (amoeboid/reactive cells), in contrast with those at 16DIV microglia that performed as aged cells (irresponsive/dormant cells). Here, we aimed to unveil whether UCB-induced toxicity diverged from the young to the long-cultured microglia. Cells were isolated from the cortical brain of 1- to 2-day-old CD1 mice and incubated for 24 h with 50/100 nM Bf levels, which were associated to moderate and severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, respectively. These concentrations of Bf induced early apoptosis and amoeboid shape in 2DIV microglia, while caused late apoptosis in 16DIV cells, without altering their morphology. CD11b staining increased in both, but more markedly in 2DIV cells. Likewise, the gene expression of HMGB1, a well-known alarmin, as well as HMGB1 and GLT-1–positive cells, were enhanced as compared to long-maturated microglia. The CX3CR1 reduction in 2DIV microglia was opposed to the 16DIV cells and suggests a preferential Bf-induced sickness response in younger cells. In conformity, increased mitochondrial mass and NO were enhanced in 2DIV cells, but unchanged or reduced, respectively, in the 16DIV microglia. However, 100 nM Bf caused iNOS gene overexpression in 2DIV and 16DIV cells. While only arginase 1/IL-1β gene expression levels increased upon 50/100 nM Bf treatment in long-maturated microglia, MHCII/arginase 1/TNF-α/IL-1β/IL-6 (>10-fold) were upregulated in the 2DIV microglia. Remarkably, enhanced inflammatory-associated microRNAs (miR-155/miR-125b/miR-21/miR-146a) and reduced anti-inflammatory miR-124 were found in young microglia by both Bf concentrations, while remained unchanged (miR/21/miR-125b) or decreased (miR-155/miR-146a/miR-124) in aged cells. Altogether, these findings support the neurodevelopmental susceptibilities to UCB-induced neurotoxicity, the most severe disabilities in premature babies, and the involvement of immune-inflammation neonatal microglia processes in poorer outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Rita Vaz
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Department of Biochemistry and Human Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Sofia Falcão
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Department of Biochemistry and Human Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Chronic Diseases Research Centre (CEDOC), Nova Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Eleonora Scarpa
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carlotta Semproni
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Dora Brites
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Department of Biochemistry and Human Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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Famulari ES, Navarro-Tableros V, Herrera Sanchez MB, Bortolussi G, Gai M, Conti L, Silengo L, Tolosano E, Tetta C, Muro AF, Camussi G, Fagoonee S, Altruda F. Human liver stem cells express UGT1A1 and improve phenotype of immunocompromised Crigler Najjar syndrome type I mice. Sci Rep 2020; 10:887. [PMID: 31965023 PMCID: PMC6972964 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-57820-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Crigler Najjar Syndrome type I (CNSI) is a rare recessive disorder caused by mutations in the Ugt1a1 gene. There is no permanent cure except for liver transplantation, and current therapies present several shortcomings. Since stem cell-based therapy offers a promising alternative for the treatment of this disorder, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of human liver stem cells (HLSC) in immune-compromised NOD SCID Gamma (NSG)/Ugt1−/− mice, which closely mimic the pathological manifestations in CNSI patients. To assess whether HLSC expressed UGT1A1, decellularised mouse liver scaffolds were repopulated with these cells. After 15 days’ culture ex vivo, HLSC differentiated into hepatocyte-like cells showing UGT1A1 expression and activity. For the in vivo human cell engraftment and recovery experiments, DiI-labelled HLSC were injected into the liver of 5 days old NSG/Ugt1−/− pups which were analysed at postnatal Day 21. HLSC expressed UGT1A1 in vivo, induced a strong decrease in serum unconjugated bilirubin, thus significantly improving phenotype and survival compared to untreated controls. A striking recovery from brain damage was also observed in HLSC-injected mutant mice versus controls. Our proof-of-concept study shows that HLSC express UGT1A1 in vivo and improve the phenotype and survival of NSG/Ugt1−/− mice, and show promises for the treatment of CNSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvira Smeralda Famulari
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Victor Navarro-Tableros
- 2i3T - Società per la gestione dell'incubatore di imprese e per il trasferimento tecnologico dell'Università degli studi di Torino, Scarl and Molecular Biotechnology Center, Turin, Italy
| | - Maria Beatriz Herrera Sanchez
- 2i3T - Società per la gestione dell'incubatore di imprese e per il trasferimento tecnologico dell'Università degli studi di Torino, Scarl and Molecular Biotechnology Center, Turin, Italy
| | - Giulia Bortolussi
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Marta Gai
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Laura Conti
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Silengo
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.,Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging, CNR c/o Molecular Biotechnology Center, Turin, Italy
| | - Emanuela Tolosano
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Andrés Fernando Muro
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Giovanni Camussi
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Sharmila Fagoonee
- Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging, CNR c/o Molecular Biotechnology Center, Turin, Italy.
| | - Fiorella Altruda
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy. .,Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging, CNR c/o Molecular Biotechnology Center, Turin, Italy.
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11
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Shapiro SM, Riordan SM. Review of bilirubin neurotoxicity II: preventing and treating acute bilirubin encephalopathy and kernicterus spectrum disorders. Pediatr Res 2020; 87:332-337. [PMID: 31581172 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-019-0603-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Previously in Part I of this two-part review, we discussed the current and recent advances in the understanding of the molecular biology and neuropathology of bilirubin neurotoxicity (BNTx). Here in Part II, we summarize current treatment options available to treat the severely jaundiced infants to prevent significant brain damage and improve clinical outcomes. In addition, we review potential novel therapies that are in various stages of research and development. We will emphasize treatments for both prevention and treatment of both acute bilirubin encephalopathy (ABE) and kernicterus spectrum disorders (KSDs), highlighting the treatment of the most disabling neurological sequelae of children with mild-to-severe KSDs whose "rare disease" status often means they are overlooked by the clinical research community at large. As with other secondary dystonias, treatment of the dystonic motor symptoms in kernicterus is the greatest clinical challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven M Shapiro
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO, USA. .,Department of Neurology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA.
| | - Sean M Riordan
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO, USA.,Department of Neurology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
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12
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Bortolussi G, Muro AF. Experimental models assessing bilirubin neurotoxicity. Pediatr Res 2020; 87:17-25. [PMID: 31493769 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-019-0570-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The molecular and cellular events leading to bilirubin-induced neurotoxicity, the mechanisms regulating liver and intestine expression in neonates, and alternative pathways of bilirubin catabolism remain incompletely defined. To answer these questions, researchers have developed a number of model systems to closely recapitulate the main characteristics of the disease, ranging from tissue cultures to engineered mouse models. In the present review we describe in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models developed to study bilirubin metabolism and neurotoxicity, with a special focus on the use of engineered animal models. In addition, we discussed the most recent studies related to potential therapeutic approaches to treat neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, ranging from anti-inflammatory drugs, activation of nuclear receptor pathways, blockade of bilirubin catabolism, and stimulation of alternative bilirubin-disposal pathways.
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13
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De Caneva A, Porro F, Bortolussi G, Sola R, Lisjak M, Barzel A, Giacca M, Kay MA, Vlahoviček K, Zentilin L, Muro AF. Coupling AAV-mediated promoterless gene targeting to SaCas9 nuclease to efficiently correct liver metabolic diseases. JCI Insight 2019; 5:128863. [PMID: 31211694 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.128863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-integrative AAV-mediated gene therapy in the liver is effective in adult patients, but faces limitations in pediatric settings due to episomal DNA loss during hepatocyte proliferation. Gene targeting is a promising approach by permanently modifying the genome. We previously rescued neonatal lethality in Crigler-Najjar mice by inserting a promoterless human uridine glucuronosyl transferase A1 (UGT1A1) cDNA in exon 14 of the albumin gene, without the use of nucleases. To increase recombination rate and therapeutic efficacy, here we used CRISPR/SaCas9. Neonatal mice were transduced with two AAVs: one expressing the SaCas9 and sgRNA, and one containing a promoterless cDNA flanked by albumin homology regions. Targeting efficiency increased ~26-fold with an eGFP reporter cDNA, reaching up to 24% of eGFP-positive hepatocytes. Next, we fully corrected the diseased phenotype of Crigler-Najjar mice by targeting the hUGT1A1 cDNA. Treated mice had normal plasma bilirubin up to 10 months after administration, hUGT1A1 protein levels were ~6-fold higher than in WT liver, with a 90-fold increase in recombination rate. Liver histology, inflammatory markers, and plasma albumin were normal in treated mice, with no off-targets in predicted sites. Thus, the improved efficacy and reassuring safety profile support the potential application of the proposed approach to other liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia De Caneva
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Fabiola Porro
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Giulia Bortolussi
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Riccardo Sola
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Michela Lisjak
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Adi Barzel
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Mauro Giacca
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Mark A Kay
- Departments of Pediatrics and Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Kristian Vlahoviček
- Bioinformatics Group, Division of Molecular Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lorena Zentilin
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Andrés F Muro
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
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14
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Negishi-Oshino R, Ohgami N, He T, Ohgami K, Li X, Kato M. cVEMP correlated with imbalance in a mouse model of vestibular disorder. Environ Health Prev Med 2019; 24:39. [PMID: 31153359 PMCID: PMC6545207 DOI: 10.1186/s12199-019-0794-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [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: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential (cVEMP) testing is a strong tool that enables objective determination of balance functions in humans. However, it remains unknown whether cVEMP correctly expresses vestibular disorder in mice. Objective In this study, correlations of cVEMP with scores for balance-related behavior tests including rotarod, beam, and air-righting reflex tests were determined in ICR mice with vestibular disorder induced by 3,3′-iminodipropiontrile (IDPN) as a mouse model of vestibular disorder. Methods Male ICR mice at 4 weeks of age were orally administered IDPN in saline (28 mmol/kg body weight) once. Rotarod, beam crossing, and air-righting reflex tests were performed before and 3–4 days after oral exposure one time to IDPN to determine balance functions. The saccule and utricles were labeled with fluorescein phalloidin. cVEMP measurements were performed for mice in the control and IDPN groups. Finally, the correlations between the scores of behavior tests and the amplitude or latency of cVEMP were determined with Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient. Two-tailed Student’s t test and Welch’s t test were used to determine a significant difference between the two groups. A difference with p < 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance. Results After oral administration of IDPN at 28 mmol/kg, scores of the rotarod, beam, and air-righting reflex tests in the IDPN group were significantly lower than those in the control group. The numbers of hair cells in the saccule, utricle, and cupula were decreased in the IDPN group. cVEMP in the IDPN group was significantly decreased in amplitude and increased in latency compared to those in the control group. cVEMP amplitude had significant correlations with the numbers of hair cells as well as scores for all of the behavior tests in mice. Conclusions This study demonstrated impaired cVEMP and correlations of cVEMP with imbalance determined by behavior tests in a mouse model of vestibular disorder. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12199-019-0794-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reina Negishi-Oshino
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Nobutaka Ohgami
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Tingchao He
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Kyoko Ohgami
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Masashi Kato
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8550, Japan.
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15
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van der Schoor LWE, Hulzebos CV, van Faassen MH, Kema IP, de Bruin A, Havinga R, Koster M, Youssef SA, Bongiovanni L, Jonker JW, Verkade HJ. LED-phototherapy does not induce oxidative DNA damage in hyperbilirubinemic Gunn rats. Pediatr Res 2019; 85:1041-7. [PMID: 30851724 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-019-0367-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phototherapy (PT) is the standard treatment of neonatal unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia. Fluorescent tube (FT)-emitted PT light is known to induce oxidative DNA damage in neonates. Nowadays, however, FTs have largely been replaced by light-emitting diodes (LEDs) for delivering PT. Until now, it is unknown whether LED-PT causes oxidative DNA damage. We aim to determine whether LED-PT induces oxidative DNA damage in hyperbilirubinemic rats. METHODS Adult Gunn rats, with genetically unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia, received LED-PT in the clinically relevant doses of 10 or 30 µW/cm2/nm. Urine was collected at 0, 24, and 48 h of PT. A group of young Gunn rats received intensive LED-PT of 100 µW/cm2/nm for 24 h. Urine was collected every 8 h and analyzed for the levels of oxidative DNA damage marker 8-hydroxy-2'deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and creatinine. DNA damage was evaluated by immunohistochemistry (γH2AX) of skin and spleen samples. RESULTS LED-PT of 10 and 30 µW/cm2/nm did not affect urinary concentrations of 8-OHdG and creatinine or the 8-OHdG/creatinine ratio. Likewise, intensive LED-PT did not affect the 8-OHdG/creatinine ratio or the number of γH2AX-positive cells in the skin or spleen. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that LED-PT does not induce oxidative DNA damage in hyperbilirubinemic Gunn rats either at clinically relevant or intensive dosages.
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16
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Abbas L, Rivolta MN. The use of animal models to study cell transplantation in neuropathic hearing loss. Hear Res 2019; 377:72-87. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2019.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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17
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Rawat V, Bortolussi G, Gazzin S, Tiribelli C, Muro AF. Bilirubin-Induced Oxidative Stress Leads to DNA Damage in the Cerebellum of Hyperbilirubinemic Neonatal Mice and Activates DNA Double-Strand Break Repair Pathways in Human Cells. Oxid Med Cell Longev 2018; 2018:1801243. [PMID: 30598724 DOI: 10.1155/2018/1801243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Revised: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Unconjugated bilirubin is considered a potent antioxidant when present at moderate levels. However, at high concentrations, it produces severe neurological damage and death associated with kernicterus due to oxidative stress and other mechanisms. While it is widely recognized that oxidative stress by different toxic insults results in severe damage to cellular macromolecules, especially to DNA, no data are available either on DNA damage in the brain triggered by hyperbilirubinemia during the neonatal period or on the activation of DNA repair mechanisms. Here, using a mouse model of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, we demonstrated that DNA damage occurs in vivo in the cerebellum, the brain region most affected by bilirubin toxicity. We studied the mechanisms associated with potential toxic action of bilirubin on DNA in in vitro models, which showed significant increases in DNA damage when neuronal and nonneuronal cells were treated with 140 nM of free bilirubin (Bf), as determined by γH2AX Western blot and immunofluorescence analyses. Cotreatment of cells with N-acetyl-cysteine, a potent oxidative-stress inhibitor, prevented DNA damage by bilirubin, supporting the concept that DNA damage was caused by bilirubin-induced oxidative stress. Bilirubin treatment also activated the main DNA repair pathways through homologous recombination (HR) and nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ), which may be adaptive responses to repair bilirubin-induced DNA damage. Since DNA damage may be another important factor contributing to neuronal death and bilirubin encephalopathy, these results contribute to the understanding of the mechanisms associated with bilirubin toxicity and may be of relevance in neonates affected with severe hyperbilirubinemia.
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18
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Schiavon E, Smalley JL, Newton S, Greig NH, Forsythe ID. Neuroinflammation and ER-stress are key mechanisms of acute bilirubin toxicity and hearing loss in a mouse model. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0201022. [PMID: 30106954 PMCID: PMC6091913 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0201022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperbilirubinemia (jaundice) is caused by raised levels of unconjugated bilirubin in the blood. When severe, susceptible brain regions including the cerebellum and auditory brainstem are damaged causing neurological sequelae such as ataxia, hearing loss and kernicterus. The mechanism(s) by which bilirubin exerts its toxic effect have not been completely understood to date. In this study we investigated the acute mechanisms by which bilirubin causes the neurotoxicity that contributes to hearing loss. We developed a novel mouse model that exhibits the neurological features seen in human Bilirubin-Induced Neurological Dysfunction (BIND) syndrome that we assessed with a behavioural score and auditory brainstem responses (ABR). Guided by initial experiments applying bilirubin to cultured cells in vitro, we performed whole genome gene expression measurements on mouse brain tissue (cerebellum and auditory brainstem) following bilirubin exposure to gain mechanistic insights into biochemical processes affected, and investigated further using immunoblotting. We then compared the gene changes induced by bilirubin to bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a well characterized inducer of neuroinflammation, to assess the degree of similarity between them. Finally, we examined the extent to which genetic perturbation of inflammation and both known and novel anti-inflammatory drugs could protect hearing from bilirubin-induced toxicity. The in vitro results indicated that bilirubin induces changes in gene expression consistent with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR). These gene changes were similar to the gene expression signature of thapsigargin–a known ER stress inducer. It also induced gene expression changes associated with inflammation and NF-κB activation. The in vivo model showed behavioural impairment and a raised auditory threshold. Whole genome gene expression analysis confirmed inflammation as a key mechanism of bilirubin neurotoxicity in the auditory pathway and shared gene expression hallmarks induced by exposure to bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) a well-characterized inducer of neuroinflammation. Interestingly, bilirubin caused more severe damage to the auditory system than LPS in this model, but consistent with our hypothesis of neuroinflammation being a primary part of bilirubin toxicity, the hearing loss was protected by perturbing the inflammatory response. This was carried out genetically using lipocalin-2 (LCN2)-null mice, which is an inflammatory cytokine highly upregulated in response to bilirubin. Finally, we tested known and novel anti-inflammatory compounds (interfering with NF-κB and TNFα signalling), and also demonstrated protection of the auditory system from bilirubin toxicity. We have developed a novel, reversible, model for jaundice that shows movement impairment and auditory loss consistent with human symptoms. We used this model to establish ER-stress and inflammation as major contributors to bilirubin toxicity. Because of the rapid and reversible onset of toxicity in this novel model it represents a system to screen therapeutic compounds. We have demonstrated this by targeting inflammation genetically and with anti-inflammatory small molecules that offered protection against bilirubin toxicity. This also suggests that anti-inflammatory drugs could be of therapeutic use in hyperbilirubinemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Schiavon
- Department Neuroscience, Psychology & Behaviour, University of Leicester, Leicester, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
| | - Joshua L. Smalley
- Department Neuroscience, Psychology & Behaviour, University of Leicester, Leicester, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
| | - Sherylanne Newton
- Department Neuroscience, Psychology & Behaviour, University of Leicester, Leicester, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
| | - Nigel H. Greig
- Translational Gerontology Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Ian D. Forsythe
- Department Neuroscience, Psychology & Behaviour, University of Leicester, Leicester, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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19
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Greig JA, Nordin JML, Draper C, McMenamin D, Chroscinski EA, Bell P, Gray JT, Richman LK, Wilson JM. Determining the Minimally Effective Dose of a Clinical Candidate AAV Vector in a Mouse Model of Crigler-Najjar Syndrome. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2018; 10:237-244. [PMID: 30112420 PMCID: PMC6090885 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2018.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Liver metabolism disorders are attractive targets for gene therapy, because low vector doses can reverse the buildup of toxic metabolites in the blood. Crigler-Najjar syndrome is an inherited disorder of bilirubin metabolism that is caused by the absence of uridine diphosphate glucuronosyl transferase 1A1 (UGT1A1) activity. This syndrome is characterized by hyperbilirubinemia and jaundice. Unfortunately, current phototherapy treatment is not effective long term. We intravenously injected phototherapy-rescued adult UGT1 knockout mice with 2.5 × 1010–2.5 × 1013 genome copies (GC)/kg of a clinical candidate vector, AAV8.TBG.hUGT1A1co, to study the treatment of disease compared to vehicle-only control mice. There were no apparent vector-related laboratory or clinical sequelae; the only abnormalities in clinical pathology were elevations in liver transaminases, primarily in male mice at the highest vector dose. Minimal to mild histopathological findings were present in control and vector-administered male mice. At vector doses greater than 2.5 × 1011 GC/kg, we observed a reversal of total bilirubin levels to wild-type levels. Based on a significant reduction in serum total bilirubin levels, we determined the minimally effective dose in this mouse model of Crigler-Najjar syndrome to be 2.5 × 1011 GC/kg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny A Greig
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jayme M L Nordin
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Christine Draper
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Deirdre McMenamin
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Edward A Chroscinski
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Peter Bell
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - John T Gray
- Audentes Therapeutics, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Laura K Richman
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - James M Wilson
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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20
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Bortolussi
- Mouse Molecular Genetics Group, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Andrés Fernando Muro
- Mouse Molecular Genetics Group, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
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21
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Greig JA, Nordin JM, Draper C, Bell P, Wilson JM. AAV8 Gene Therapy Rescues the Newborn Phenotype of a Mouse Model of Crigler–Najjar. Hum Gene Ther 2018; 29:763-770. [DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jenny A. Greig
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jayme M.L. Nordin
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Christine Draper
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Peter Bell
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - James M. Wilson
- Gene Therapy Program, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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22
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Porro F, Bortolussi G, Barzel A, De Caneva A, Iaconcig A, Vodret S, Zentilin L, Kay MA, Muro AF. Promoterless gene targeting without nucleases rescues lethality of a Crigler-Najjar syndrome mouse model. EMBO Mol Med 2018; 9:1346-1355. [PMID: 28751579 PMCID: PMC5623861 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.201707601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [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] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Crigler‐Najjar syndrome type I (CNSI) is a rare monogenic disease characterized by severe neonatal unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia with a lifelong risk of neurological damage and death. Liver transplantation is the only curative option, which has several limitations and risks. We applied an in vivo gene targeting approach based on the insertion, without the use of nucleases, of a promoterless therapeutic cDNA into the albumin locus of a mouse model reproducing all major features of CNSI. Neonatal transduction with the donor vector resulted in the complete rescue from neonatal lethality, with a therapeutic reduction in plasma bilirubin lasting for at least 12 months, the latest time point analyzed. Mutant mice, which expressed about 5–6% of WT Ugt1a1 levels, showed normal liver histology and motor‐coordination abilities, suggesting no functional liver or brain abnormalities. These results proved that the promoterless gene therapy is applicable for CNSI, providing therapeutic levels of an intracellular ER membrane‐bound enzyme responsible for a lethal liver metabolic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiola Porro
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Giulia Bortolussi
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Adi Barzel
- Departments of Pediatrics and Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Alessia De Caneva
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessandra Iaconcig
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Simone Vodret
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Lorena Zentilin
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Mark A Kay
- Departments of Pediatrics and Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Andrés F Muro
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
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Vodret S, Bortolussi G, Iaconcig A, Martinelli E, Tiribelli C, Muro AF. Attenuation of neuro-inflammation improves survival and neurodegeneration in a mouse model of severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. Brain Behav Immun 2018; 70:166-178. [PMID: 29458193 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2018.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
All pre-term newborns and a high proportion of term newborns develop neonatal jaundice. Neonatal jaundice is usually a benign condition and self-resolves within few days after birth. However, a combination of unfavorable complications may lead to acute hyperbilirubinemia. Excessive hyperbilirubinemia may be toxic for the developing nervous system leading to severe neurological damage and death by kernicterus. Survivors show irreversible neurological deficits such as motor, sensitive and cognitive abnormalities. Current therapies rely on the use of phototherapy and, in unresponsive cases, exchange transfusion, which is performed only in specialized centers. During bilirubin-induced neurotoxicity different molecular pathways are activated, ranging from oxidative stress to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response and inflammation, but the contribution of each pathway in the development of the disease still requires further investigation. Thus, to increase our understanding of the pathophysiology of bilirubin neurotoxicity, encephalopathy and kernicterus, we pharmacologically modulated neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation in a lethal mouse model of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. Treatment of mutant mice with minocycline, a second-generation tetracycline with anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, resulted in a dose-dependent rescue of lethality, due to reduction of neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation, without affecting plasma bilirubin levels. In particular, rescued mice showed normal motor-coordination capabilities and behavior, as determined by the accelerating rotarod and open field tests, respectively. From the molecular point of view, rescued mice showed a dose-dependent reduction in apoptosis of cerebellar neurons and improvement of dendritic arborization of Purkinje cells. Moreover, we observed a decrease of bilirubin-induced M1 microglia activation at the sites of damage with a reduction in oxidative and ER stress markers in these cells. Collectively, these data indicate that neurodegeneration and neuro-inflammation are key factors of bilirubin-induced neonatal lethality and neuro-behavioral abnormalities. We propose that the application of pharmacological treatments having anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, to be used in combination with the current treatments, may significantly improve the management of acute neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, protecting from bilirubin-induced neurological damage and death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Vodret
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Padriciano, 99, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Giulia Bortolussi
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Padriciano, 99, 34149 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Iaconcig
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Padriciano, 99, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Elena Martinelli
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Padriciano, 99, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Claudio Tiribelli
- Centro Studi Fegato, Fondazione Italiana Fegato, AREA Science Park, Campus Basovizza, Trieste, Italy
| | - Andrés F Muro
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Padriciano, 99, 34149 Trieste, Italy.
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Bockor L, Bortolussi G, Vodret S, Iaconcig A, Jašprová J, Zelenka J, Vitek L, Tiribelli C, Muro AF. Modulation of bilirubin neurotoxicity by the Abcb1 transporter in the Ugt1-/- lethal mouse model of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. Hum Mol Genet 2017; 26:145-157. [PMID: 28025333 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddw375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [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: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Moderate neonatal jaundice is the most common clinical condition during newborn life. However, a combination of factors may result in acute hyperbilirubinemia, placing infants at risk of developing bilirubin encephalopathy and death by kernicterus. While most risk factors are known, the mechanisms acting to reduce susceptibility to bilirubin neurotoxicity remain unclear. The presence of modifier genes modulating the risk of developing bilirubin-induced brain damage is increasingly being recognised. The Abcb1 and Abcc1 members of the ABC family of transporters have been suggested to have an active role in exporting unconjugated bilirubin from the central nervous system into plasma. However, their role in reducing the risk of developing neurological damage and death during neonatal development is still unknown.To this end, we mated Abcb1a/b-/- and Abcc1-/- strains with Ugt1-/- mice, which develop severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. While about 60% of Ugt1-/- mice survived after temporary phototherapy, all Abcb1a/b-/-/Ugt1-/- mice died before postnatal day 21, showing higher cerebellar levels of unconjugated bilirubin. Interestingly, Abcc1 role appeared to be less important.In the cerebellum of Ugt1-/- mice, hyperbilirubinemia induced the expression of Car and Pxr nuclear receptors, known regulators of genes involved in the genotoxic response.We demonstrated a critical role of Abcb1 in protecting the cerebellum from bilirubin toxicity during neonatal development, the most clinically relevant phase for human babies, providing further understanding of the mechanisms regulating bilirubin neurotoxicity in vivo. Pharmacological treatments aimed to increase Abcb1 and Abcc1 expression, could represent a therapeutic option to reduce the risk of bilirubin neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luka Bockor
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Giulia Bortolussi
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Simone Vodret
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessandra Iaconcig
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Jana Jašprová
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Zelenka
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 3, 166 28 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Libor Vitek
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.,Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Claudio Tiribelli
- Centro Studi Fegato, Fondazione Italiana Fegato, AREA Science Park, Campus Basovizza Trieste, Italy and
| | - Andrés F Muro
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
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Vodret S, Bortolussi G, Jašprová J, Vitek L, Muro AF. Inflammatory signature of cerebellar neurodegeneration during neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in Ugt1 -/- mouse model. J Neuroinflammation 2017; 14:64. [PMID: 28340583 PMCID: PMC5366125 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-017-0838-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [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: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Severe hyperbilirubinemia is toxic during central nervous system development. Prolonged and uncontrolled high levels of unconjugated bilirubin lead to bilirubin-induced neurological damage and eventually death by kernicterus. Bilirubin neurotoxicity is characterized by a wide array of neurological deficits, including irreversible abnormalities in motor, sensitive and cognitive functions, due to bilirubin accumulation in the brain. Despite the abundant literature documenting the in vitro and in vivo toxic effects of bilirubin, it is unclear which molecular and cellular events actually characterize bilirubin-induced neurodegeneration in vivo. Methods We used a mouse model of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia to temporally and spatially define the response of the developing cerebellum to the bilirubin insult. Results We showed that the exposure of developing cerebellum to sustained bilirubin levels induces the activation of oxidative stress, ER stress and inflammatory markers at the early stages of the disease onset. In particular, we identified TNFα and NFKβ as key mediators of bilirubin-induced inflammatory response. Moreover, we reported that M1 type microglia is increasingly activated during disease progression. Failure to counteract this overwhelming stress condition resulted in the induction of the apoptotic pathway and the generation of the glial scar. Finally, bilirubin induced the autophagy pathway in the stages preceding death of the animals. Conclusions This study demonstrates that inflammation is a key contributor to bilirubin damage that cooperates with ER stress in the onset of neurotoxicity. Pharmacological modulation of the inflammatory pathway may be a potential intervention target to ameliorate neonatal lethality in Ugt1-/- mice. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12974-017-0838-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Vodret
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Padriciano, 99, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giulia Bortolussi
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Padriciano, 99, 34149, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Jana Jašprová
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 120 00, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Libor Vitek
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 120 00, Prague, Czech Republic.,Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 120 00, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Andrés F Muro
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Padriciano, 99, 34149, Trieste, Italy.
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Dal Ben M, Bottin C, Zanconati F, Tiribelli C, Gazzin S. Evaluation of region selective bilirubin-induced brain damage as a basis for a pharmacological treatment. Sci Rep 2017; 7:41032. [PMID: 28102362 PMCID: PMC5244479 DOI: 10.1038/srep41032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [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: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurologic manifestations of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in the central nervous system (CNS) exhibit high variations in the severity and appearance of motor, auditory and cognitive symptoms, which is suggestive of a still unexplained selective topography of bilirubin-induced damage. By applying the organotypic brain culture (OBC: preserving in vitro the cellular complexity, connection and architecture of the in vivo brain) technique to study hyperbilirubinemia, we mapped the regional target of bilirubin-induced damage, demonstrated a multifactorial toxic action of bilirubin, and used this information to evaluate the efficacy of drugs applicable to newborns to protect the brain. OBCs from 8-day-old rat pups showed a 2–13 fold higher sensitivity to bilirubin damage than 2-day-old preparations. The hippocampus, inferior colliculus and cerebral cortex were the only brain regions affected, presenting a mixed inflammatory-oxidative mechanism. Glutamate excitotoxicity was appreciable in only the hippocampus and inferior colliculus. Single drug treatment (indomethacin, curcumin, MgCl2) significantly improved cell viability in all regions, while the combined (cocktail) administration of the three drugs almost completely prevented damage in the most affected area (hippocampus). Our data may supports an innovative (complementary to phototherapy) approach for directly protecting the newborn brain from bilirubin neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Dal Ben
- Italian Liver Foundation (Fondazione Italiana Fegato), AREA Science Park, Trieste, Italy
| | - Cristina Bottin
- Department of Medical Sciences (Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche), Ospedale di Cattinara, Univestità degli Studi di Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Zanconati
- Department of Medical Sciences (Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche), Ospedale di Cattinara, Univestità degli Studi di Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Claudio Tiribelli
- Italian Liver Foundation (Fondazione Italiana Fegato), AREA Science Park, Trieste, Italy
| | - Silvia Gazzin
- Italian Liver Foundation (Fondazione Italiana Fegato), AREA Science Park, Trieste, Italy
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Ronzitti G, Bortolussi G, van Dijk R, Collaud F, Charles S, Leborgne C, Vidal P, Martin S, Gjata B, Sola MS, van Wittenberghe L, Vignaud A, Veron P, Bosma PJ, Muro AF, Mingozzi F. A translationally optimized AAV-UGT1A1 vector drives safe and long-lasting correction of Crigler-Najjar syndrome. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2016; 3:16049. [PMID: 27722180 DOI: 10.1038/mtm.2016.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2016] [Revised: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Crigler-Najjar syndrome is a severe metabolic disease of the liver due to a
reduced activity of the UDP Glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 (UGT1A1) enzyme. In an
effort to translate to the clinic an adeno-associated virus vector mediated
liver gene transfer approach to treat Crigler-Najjar syndrome, we developed and
optimized a vector expressing the UGT1A1 transgene. For this purpose, we
designed and tested in vitro and in vivo multiple
codon-optimized UGT1A1 transgene cDNAs. We also optimized noncoding sequences in
the transgene expression cassette. Our results indicate that transgene
codon-optimization is a strategy that can improve efficacy of gene transfer but
needs to be carefully tested in vitro and in vivo.
Additionally, while inclusion of introns can enhance gene expression,
optimization of these introns, and in particular removal of cryptic ATGs and
splice sites, is an important maneuver to enhance safety and efficacy of gene
transfer. Finally, using a translationally optimized adeno-associated virus
vector expressing the UGT1A1 transgene, we demonstrated rescue of the phenotype
of Crigler-Najjar syndrome in two animal models of the disease, Gunn rats and
Ugt1a1-/- mice. We also showed long-term (>1 year)
correction of the disease in Gunn rats. These results support further
translation of the approach to humans.
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Vodret S, Bortolussi G, Schreuder AB, Jašprová J, Vitek L, Verkade HJ, Muro AF. Albumin administration prevents neurological damage and death in a mouse model of severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. Sci Rep 2015; 5:16203. [PMID: 26541892 DOI: 10.1038/srep16203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapies to prevent severe neonatal unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia and kernicterus are phototherapy and, in unresponsive cases, exchange transfusion, which has significant morbidity and mortality risks. Neurotoxicity is caused by the fraction of unconjugated bilirubin not bound to albumin (free bilirubin, Bf). Human serum albumin (HSA) administration was suggested to increase plasma bilirubin-binding capacity. However, its clinical use is infrequent due to difficulties to address its potential preventive and curative benefits, and to the absence of reliable markers to monitor bilirubin neurotoxicity risk. We used a genetic mouse model of unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia showing severe neurological impairment and neonatal lethality. We treated mutant pups with repeated HSA administration since birth, without phototherapy application. Daily intraperitoneal HSA administration completely rescued neurological damage and lethality, depending on dosage and administration frequency. Albumin infusion increased plasma bilirubin-binding capacity, mobilizing bilirubin from tissues to plasma. This resulted in reduced plasma Bf, forebrain and cerebellum bilirubin levels. We showed that, in our experimental model, Bf is the best marker to determine the risk of developing neurological damage. These results support the potential use of albumin administration in severe acute hyperbilirubinemia conditions to prevent or treat bilirubin neurotoxicity in situations in which exchange transfusion may be required.
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Bortolussi G, Codarin E, Antoniali G, Vascotto C, Vodret S, Arena S, Cesaratto L, Scaloni A, Tell G, Muro AF. Impairment of enzymatic antioxidant defenses is associated with bilirubin-induced neuronal cell death in the cerebellum of Ugt1 KO mice. Cell Death Dis 2015; 6:e1739. [PMID: 25950469 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2015.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2014] [Revised: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Severe hyperbilirubinemia is toxic during central nervous system development. Prolonged and uncontrolled high levels of unconjugated bilirubin lead to bilirubin-induced encephalopathy and eventually death by kernicterus. Despite extensive studies, the molecular and cellular mechanisms of bilirubin toxicity are still poorly defined. To fill this gap, we investigated the molecular processes underlying neuronal injury in a mouse model of severe neonatal jaundice, which develops hyperbilirubinemia as a consequence of a null mutation in the Ugt1 gene. These mutant mice show cerebellar abnormalities and hypoplasia, neuronal cell death and die shortly after birth because of bilirubin neurotoxicity. To identify protein changes associated with bilirubin-induced cell death, we performed proteomic analysis of cerebella from Ugt1 mutant and wild-type mice. Proteomic data pointed-out to oxidoreductase activities or antioxidant processes as important intracellular mechanisms altered during bilirubin-induced neurotoxicity. In particular, they revealed that down-representation of DJ-1, superoxide dismutase, peroxiredoxins 2 and 6 was associated with hyperbilirubinemia in the cerebellum of mutant mice. Interestingly, the reduction in protein levels seems to result from post-translational mechanisms because we did not detect significant quantitative differences in the corresponding mRNAs. We also observed an increase in neuro-specific enolase 2 both in the cerebellum and in the serum of mutant mice, supporting its potential use as a biomarker of bilirubin-induced neurological damage. In conclusion, our data show that different protective mechanisms fail to contrast oxidative burst in bilirubin-affected brain regions, ultimately leading to neurodegeneration.
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Watchko JF, Painter MJ, Panigrahy A. Are the neuromotor disabilities of bilirubin-induced neurologic dysfunction disorders related to the cerebellum and its connections? Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2015; 20:47-51. [PMID: 25547431 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2014.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Investigators have hypothesized a range of subcortical neuropathology in the genesis of bilirubin-induced neurologic dysfunction (BIND). The current review builds on this speculation with a specific focus on the cerebellum and its connections in the development of the subtle neuromotor disabilities of BIND. The focus on the cerebellum derives from the following observations: (i) the cerebellum is vulnerable to bilirubin-induced injury; perhaps the most vulnerable region within the central nervous system; (ii) infants with cerebellar injury exhibit a neuromotor phenotype similar to BIND; and (iii) the cerebellum has extensive bidirectional circuitry projections to motor and non-motor regions of the brainstem and cerebral cortex that impact a variety of neurobehaviors. Future study using advanced magnetic resonance neuroimaging techniques have the potential to shed new insights into bilirubin's effect on neural network topology via both structural and functional brain connectivity measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon F Watchko
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Michael J Painter
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ashok Panigrahy
- Department of Pediatric Radiology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Brites D, Fernandes A. Bilirubin-induced neural impairment: a special focus on myelination, age-related windows of susceptibility and associated co-morbidities. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2015; 20:14-9. [PMID: 25534357 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2014.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Bilirubin-induced neurologic dysfunction (BIND) and classical kernicterus are clinical manifestations of moderate to severe hyperbilirubinemia whenever bilirubin levels exceed the capacity of the brain defensive mechanisms in preventing its entrance and cytotoxicity. In such circumstances and depending on the associated co-morbidities, bilirubin accumulation may lead to short- or long-term neurodevelopmental disabilities, which may include deficits in auditory, cognitive, and motor processing. Neuronal cell death, astrocytic reactivity, and microglia activation are part of the bilirubin-induced pathogenesis. Less understood is how abnormal growth and maturation of oligodendrocytes may impact on brain development, affecting the formation of myelin tracts. Based on in-vitro and in-vivo models, as well as in clinical cases presented here, we propose the existence of impaired myelination by bilirubin with long-term sequelae, mainly in pre-term infants. Sensitive time-windows are highlighted and centered on the different developmental-dependent impairments determined by bilirubin, and the influence of sepsis and hypoxia is reviewed.
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