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Chen KS, Noureldein MH, McGinley LM, Hayes JM, Rigan DM, Kwentus JF, Mason SN, Mendelson FE, Savelieff MG, Feldman EL. Human neural stem cells restore spatial memory in a transgenic Alzheimer's disease mouse model by an immunomodulating mechanism. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1306004. [PMID: 38155736 PMCID: PMC10753006 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1306004] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Stem cells are a promising therapeutic in Alzheimer's disease (AD) given the complex pathophysiologic pathways involved. However, the therapeutic mechanisms of stem cells remain unclear. Here, we used spatial transcriptomics to elucidate therapeutic mechanisms of human neural stem cells (hNSCs) in an animal model of AD. Methods hNSCs were transplanted into the fimbria fornix of the hippocampus using the 5XFAD mouse model. Spatial memory was assessed by Morris water maze. Amyloid plaque burden was quantified. Spatial transcriptomics was performed and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identified both globally and within the hippocampus. Subsequent pathway enrichment and ligand-receptor network analysis was performed. Results hNSC transplantation restored learning curves of 5XFAD mice. However, there were no changes in amyloid plaque burden. Spatial transcriptomics showed 1,061 DEGs normalized in hippocampal subregions. Plaque induced genes in microglia, along with populations of stage 1 and stage 2 disease associated microglia (DAM), were normalized upon hNSC transplantation. Pathologic signaling between hippocampus and DAM was also restored. Discussion hNSCs normalized many dysregulated genes, although this was not mediated by a change in amyloid plaque levels. Rather, hNSCs appear to exert beneficial effects in part by modulating microglia-mediated neuroinflammation and signaling in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin S. Chen
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Mohamed H. Noureldein
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Lisa M. McGinley
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - John M. Hayes
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Diana M. Rigan
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Jacquelin F. Kwentus
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Shayna N. Mason
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Faye E. Mendelson
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Masha G. Savelieff
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, United States
| | - Eva L. Feldman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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Chen KS, Noureldein MH, McGinley LM, Hayes JM, Rigan DM, Kwentus JF, Mason SN, Mendelson FE, Savelieffd MG, Feldman EL. Human neural stem cells restore spatial memory in a transgenic Alzheimer's disease mouse model by an immunomodulating mechanism. bioRxiv 2023:2023.11.01.565161. [PMID: 37961246 PMCID: PMC10635057 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.01.565161] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Stem cells are a promising therapeutic in Alzheimer's disease (AD) given the complex pathophysiologic pathways involved. However, the therapeutic mechanisms of stem cells remain unclear. Here, we used spatial transcriptomics to elucidate therapeutic mechanisms of human neural stem cells (hNSCs) in an animal model of AD. METHODS hNSCs were transplanted into the fimbria fornix of the hippocampus using the 5XFAD mouse model. Spatial memory was assessed by Morris water maze. Amyloid plaque burden was quantified. Spatial transcriptomics was performed and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identified both globally and within the hippocampus. Subsequent pathway enrichment and ligand-receptor network analysis was performed. RESULTS hNSC transplantation restored learning curves of 5XFAD mice. However, there were no changes in amyloid plaque burden. Spatial transcriptomics showed 1061 DEGs normalized in hippocampal subregions. Plaque induced genes in microglia, along with populations of stage 1 and stage 2 disease associated microglia (DAM), were normalized upon hNSC transplantation. Pathologic signaling between hippocampus and DAM was also restored. DISCUSSION hNSCs normalized many dysregulated genes, although this was not mediated by a change in amyloid plaque levels. Rather, hNSCs appear to exert beneficial effects in part by modulating microglia-mediated neuroinflammation and signaling in AD.
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McGinley LM, Chen KS, Mason SN, Rigan DM, Kwentus JF, Hayes JM, Glass ED, Reynolds EL, Murphy GG, Feldman EL. Monoclonal antibody-mediated immunosuppression enables long-term survival of transplanted human neural stem cells in mouse brain. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e1046. [PMID: 36101963 PMCID: PMC9471059 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As the field of stem cell therapy advances, it is important to develop reliable methods to overcome host immune responses in animal models. This ensures survival of transplanted human stem cell grafts and enables predictive efficacy testing. Immunosuppressive drugs derived from clinical protocols are frequently used but are often inconsistent and associated with toxic side effects. Here, using a molecular imaging approach, we show that immunosuppression targeting costimulatory molecules CD4 and CD40L enables robust survival of human xenografts in mouse brain, as compared to conventional tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil. METHODS Human neural stem cells were modified to express green fluorescent protein and firefly luciferase. Cells were implanted in the fimbria fornix of the hippocampus and viability assessed by non-invasive bioluminescent imaging. Cell survival was assessed using traditional pharmacologic immunosuppression as compared to monoclonal antibodies directed against CD4 and CD40L. This paradigm was also implemented in a transgenic Alzheimer's disease mouse model. RESULTS Graft rejection occurs within 7 days in non-immunosuppressed mice and within 14 days in mice on a traditional regimen. The addition of dual monoclonal antibody immunosuppression extends graft survival past 7 weeks (p < .001) on initial studies. We confirm dual monoclonal antibody treatment is superior to either antibody alone (p < .001). Finally, we demonstrate robust xenograft survival at multiple cell doses up to 6 months in both C57BL/6J mice and a transgenic Alzheimer's disease model (p < .001). The dual monoclonal antibody protocol demonstrated no significant adverse effects, as determined by complete blood counts and toxicity screen. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates an effective immunosuppression protocol for preclinical testing of stem cell therapies. A transition towards antibody-based strategies may be advantageous by enabling stem cell survival in preclinical studies that could inform future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M. McGinley
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Kevin S. Chen
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
- Department of NeurosurgeryUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Shayna N. Mason
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Diana M. Rigan
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | | | - John M. Hayes
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Emily D. Glass
- Department of Molecular and Integrative PhysiologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
- Michigan Neuroscience InstituteUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Evan L. Reynolds
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Geoffrey G. Murphy
- Department of Molecular and Integrative PhysiologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
- Michigan Neuroscience InstituteUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Eva L. Feldman
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
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McGinley LM, Willsey MS, Kashlan ON, Chen KS, Hayes JM, Bergin IL, Mason SN, Stebbins AW, Kwentus JF, Pacut C, Kollmer J, Sakowski SA, Bell CB, Chestek CA, Murphy GG, Patil PG, Feldman EL. Magnetic resonance imaging of human neural stem cells in rodent and primate brain. Stem Cells Transl Med 2020; 10:83-97. [PMID: 32841522 PMCID: PMC7780819 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.20-0126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell transplantation therapies are currently under investigation for central nervous system disorders. Although preclinical models show benefit, clinical translation is somewhat limited by the absence of reliable noninvasive methods to confirm targeting and monitor transplanted cells in vivo. Here, we assess a novel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent derived from magnetotactic bacteria, magneto‐endosymbionts (MEs), as a translatable methodology for in vivo tracking of stem cells after intracranial transplantation. We show that ME labeling provides robust MRI contrast without impairment of cell viability or other important therapeutic features. Labeled cells were visualized immediately post‐transplantation and over time by serial MRI in nonhuman primate and mouse brain. Postmortem tissue analysis confirmed on‐target grft location, and linear correlations were observed between MRI signal, cell engraftment, and tissue ME levels, suggesting that MEs may be useful for determining graft survival or rejection. Overall, these findings indicate that MEs are an effective tool for in vivo tracking and monitoring of cell transplantation therapies with potential relevance to many cellular therapy applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M McGinley
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Matthew S Willsey
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Osama N Kashlan
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kevin S Chen
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - John M Hayes
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Ingrid L Bergin
- Unit for Laboratory Animal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Shayna N Mason
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Aaron W Stebbins
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Crystal Pacut
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jennifer Kollmer
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stacey A Sakowski
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Caleb B Bell
- Bell Biosystems, San Francisco, California, USA.,G4S Capital & Ikigai Accelerator, Santa Clara, California, USA
| | - Cynthia A Chestek
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Neuroscience and Robotics Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Geoffrey G Murphy
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Parag G Patil
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Eva L Feldman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Kim B, Elzinga SE, Henn RE, McGinley LM, Feldman EL. The effects of insulin and insulin-like growth factor I on amyloid precursor protein phosphorylation in in vitro and in vivo models of Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiol Dis 2019; 132:104541. [PMID: 31349033 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2019.104541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [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: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a growing problem worldwide, and there are currently no effective treatments for this devastating disease. The neurotrophic growth factors insulin and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) are currently being investigated as potential therapeutic approaches for AD in preclinical and clinical studies. However, given that the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and diabetes are risk factors for AD, it is unknown how associated insulin resistance (IR) in the brain may impact the effectiveness of these therapies for AD. In this report, we therefore investigated the mechanisms underlying the effects of insulin and IGF-I on AD-associated pathology in the context of IR, with particular emphasis on phosphorylation of amyloid precursor protein (APP), a key step in promoting amyloid plaque formation in AD. Both insulin and IGF-I decreased APP phosphorylation in cultured primary cortical neurons, supporting their therapeutic use in AD. Induction of IR blocked the beneficial effect of insulin and reduced the effect of IGF-I on APP dephosphorylation. These effects were mediated by the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-K)/protein kinase B (Akt) pathway, as inhibition of this pathway during IR restored the effect of IGF-I on APP dephosphorylation. Finally, we explored the translational relevance of these results in vivo by demonstrating that high fat diet fed mice, a robust model of IR and MetS, exhibited the expected increased brain APP phosphorylation. Overall, these data suggest that the beneficial therapeutic effect of insulin and IGF-I on APP phosphorylation is negatively impacted by IR, and suggest that insulin and IGF-I alone may not be appropriate therapies for AD patients with IR, MetS, or diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhumsoo Kim
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200, United States of America
| | - Sarah E Elzinga
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200, United States of America
| | - Rosemary E Henn
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200, United States of America
| | - Lisa M McGinley
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200, United States of America
| | - Eva L Feldman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2200, United States of America.
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Chen KS, McGinley LM, Kashlan ON, Hayes JM, Bruno ES, Chang JS, Mendelson FE, Tabbey MA, Johe K, Sakowski SA, Feldman EL. Targeted intraspinal injections to assess therapies in rodent models of neurological disorders. Nat Protoc 2019; 14:331-349. [PMID: 30610242 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-018-0095-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Despite decades of research, pharmacological therapies for spinal cord motor pathologies are limited. Alternatives using macromolecular, viral, or cell-based therapies show early promise. However, introducing these substances into the spinal cord, past the blood-brain barrier, without causing injury is challenging. We describe a technique for intraspinal injection targeting the lumbar ventral horn in rodents. This technique preserves motor performance and has a proven track record of translation into phase 1 and 2 clinical trials in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients. The procedure, in brief, involves exposure of the thoracolumbar spine and dissection of paraspinous muscles over the target vertebrae. Following laminectomy, the spine is affixed to a stereotactic frame, permitting precise and reproducible injection throughout the lumbar spine. We have used this protocol to inject various stem cell types, primarily human spinal stem cells (HSSCs); however, the injection is adaptable to any candidate therapeutic cell, virus, or macromolecule product. In addition to a detailed procedure, we provide stereotactic coordinates that assist in targeting of the lumbar spine and instructional videos. The protocol takes ~2 h per animal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin S Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lisa M McGinley
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Osama N Kashlan
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - John M Hayes
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Josh S Chang
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Faye E Mendelson
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Maegan A Tabbey
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | | | - Eva L Feldman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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McGinley LM, Kashlan ON, Bruno ES, Chen KS, Hayes JM, Kashlan SR, Raykin J, Johe K, Murphy GG, Feldman EL. Human neural stem cell transplantation improves cognition in a murine model of Alzheimer's disease. Sci Rep 2018; 8:14776. [PMID: 30283042 PMCID: PMC6170460 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33017-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [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: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell transplantation offers a potentially transformative approach to treating neurodegenerative disorders. The safety of cellular therapies is established in multiple clinical trials, including our own in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. To initiate similar trials in Alzheimer's disease, efficacious cell lines must be identified. Here, we completed a preclinical proof-of-concept study in the APP/PS1 murine model of Alzheimer's disease. Human neural stem cell transplantation targeted to the fimbria fornix significantly improved cognition in two hippocampal-dependent memory tasks at 4 and 16 weeks post-transplantation. While levels of synapse-related proteins and cholinergic neurons were unaffected, amyloid plaque load was significantly reduced in stem cell transplanted mice and associated with increased recruitment of activated microglia. In vitro, these same neural stem cells induced microglial activation and amyloid phagocytosis, suggesting an immunomodulatory capacity. Although long-term transplantation resulted in significant functional and pathological improvements in APP/PS1 mice, stem cells were not identified by immunohistochemistry or PCR at the study endpoint. These data suggest integration into native tissue or the idea that transient engraftment may be adequate for therapeutic efficacy, reducing the need for continued immunosuppression. Overall, our results support further preclinical development of human neural stem cells as a safe and effective therapy for Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M McGinley
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Osama N Kashlan
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Kevin S Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - John M Hayes
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Samy R Kashlan
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Julia Raykin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Karl Johe
- Neuralstem, Inc, Germantown, MD, USA
| | - Geoffrey G Murphy
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, Molecular & Behavioral Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Eva L Feldman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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8
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McGinley LM, Kashlan ON, Chen KS, Bruno ES, Hayes JM, Backus C, Feldman S, Kashlan BN, Johe K, Feldman EL. Human neural stem cell transplantation into the corpus callosum of Alzheimer's mice. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2017; 4:749-755. [PMID: 29046883 PMCID: PMC5634341 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The hippocampus has been the target of stem cell transplantations in preclinical studies focused on Alzheimer's disease, with results showing improvements in histological and behavioral outcomes. The corpus callosum is another structure that is affected early in Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, we hypothesize that this structure is a novel target for human neural stem cell transplantation in transgenic Alzheimer's disease mouse models. This study demonstrates the feasibility of targeting the corpus callosum and identifies an effective immunosuppression regimen for transplanted neural stem cell survival. These results support further preclinical development of the corpus callosum as a therapeutic target in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M McGinley
- Department of Neurology University of Michigan Ann Arbor Michigan
| | - Osama N Kashlan
- Department of Neurosurgery University of Michigan Ann Arbor Michigan
| | - Kevin S Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery University of Michigan Ann Arbor Michigan
| | | | - John M Hayes
- Department of Neurology University of Michigan Ann Arbor Michigan
| | - Carey Backus
- Department of Neurology University of Michigan Ann Arbor Michigan
| | - Seth Feldman
- Department of Neurology University of Michigan Ann Arbor Michigan
| | - Bader N Kashlan
- Department of Neurology University of Michigan Ann Arbor Michigan
| | | | - Eva L Feldman
- Department of Neurology University of Michigan Ann Arbor Michigan.,A. Alfred Taubman Medical Research Institute University of Michigan Ann Arbor Michigan
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9
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Lunn JS, Sakowski SA, McGinley LM, Pacut C, Hazel TG, Johe K, Feldman EL. Autocrine production of IGF-I increases stem cell-mediated neuroprotection. Stem Cells 2016; 33:1480-9. [PMID: 25532472 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2014] [Accepted: 12/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder resulting in motor neuron (MN) loss. There are currently no effective therapies; however, cellular therapies using neural progenitor cells protect MNs and attenuate disease progression in G93A-SOD1 ALS rats. Recently, we completed a phase I clinical trial examining intraspinal human spinal stem cell (HSSC) transplantation in ALS patients which demonstrated our approach was safe and feasible, supporting the phase II trial currently in progress. In parallel, efforts focused on understanding the mechanisms underlying the preclinical benefit of HSSCs in vitro and in animal models of ALS led us to investigate how insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) production contributes to cellular therapy neuroprotection. IGF-I is a potent growth factor with proven efficacy in preclinical ALS studies, and we contend that autocrine IGF-I production may enhance the salutary effects of HSSCs. By comparing the biological properties of HSSCs to HSSCs expressing sixfold higher levels of IGF-I, we demonstrate that IGF-I production augments the production of glial-derived neurotrophic factor and accelerates neurite outgrowth without adversely affecting HSSC proliferation or terminal differentiation. Furthermore, we demonstrate that increased IGF-I induces more potent MN protection from excitotoxicity via both indirect and direct mechanisms, as demonstrated using hanging inserts with primary MNs or by culturing with organotypic spinal cord slices, respectively. These findings support our theory that combining autocrine growth factor production with HSSC transplantation may offer a novel means to achieve additive neuroprotection in ALS.
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McGinley LM, Sims E, Lunn JS, Kashlan ON, Chen KS, Bruno ES, Pacut CM, Hazel T, Johe K, Sakowski SA, Feldman EL. Human Cortical Neural Stem Cells Expressing Insulin-Like Growth Factor-I: A Novel Cellular Therapy for Alzheimer's Disease. Stem Cells Transl Med 2016; 5:379-91. [PMID: 26744412 PMCID: PMC4807660 DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2015-0103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2015] [Accepted: 11/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent age-related neurodegenerative disorder and a leading cause of dementia. Current treatment fails to modify underlying disease pathologies and very little progress has been made to develop effective drug treatments. Cellular therapies impact disease by multiple mechanisms, providing increased efficacy compared with traditional single-target approaches. In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, we have shown that transplanted spinal neural stem cells (NSCs) integrate into the spinal cord, form synapses with the host, improve inflammation, and reduce disease-associated pathologies. Our current goal is to develop a similar "best in class" cellular therapy for AD. Here, we characterize a novel human cortex-derived NSC line modified to express insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), HK532-IGF-I. Because IGF-I promotes neurogenesis and synaptogenesis in vivo, this enhanced NSC line offers additional environmental enrichment, enhanced neuroprotection, and a multifaceted approach to treating complex AD pathologies. We show that autocrine IGF-I production does not impact the cell secretome or normal cellular functions, including proliferation, migration, or maintenance of progenitor status. However, HK532-IGF-I cells preferentially differentiate into gamma-aminobutyric acid-ergic neurons, a subtype dysregulated in AD; produce increased vascular endothelial growth factor levels; and display an increased neuroprotective capacity in vitro. We also demonstrate that HK532-IGF-I cells survive peri-hippocampal transplantation in a murine AD model and exhibit long-term persistence in targeted brain areas. In conclusion, we believe that harnessing the benefits of cellular and IGF-I therapies together will provide the optimal therapeutic benefit to patients, and our findings support further preclinical development of HK532-IGF-I cells into a disease-modifying intervention for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M McGinley
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Erika Sims
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - J Simon Lunn
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Osama N Kashlan
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kevin S Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Elizabeth S Bruno
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Crystal M Pacut
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Tom Hazel
- Neuralstem, Inc., Germantown, Maryland, USA
| | - Karl Johe
- Neuralstem, Inc., Germantown, Maryland, USA
| | - Stacey A Sakowski
- A. Alfred Taubman Medical Research Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Eva L Feldman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA A. Alfred Taubman Medical Research Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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11
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Kashlan ON, Kashlan BN, Oh SS, McGinley LM, Chen KS, Kupfer R, Erman A, Sakowski SA, Feldman EL. Histological Bulbar Manifestations in the ALS Rat. NEURODEGENER DIS 2015; 15:121-6. [PMID: 25825172 DOI: 10.1159/000377725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Almost all patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) develop bulbar symptoms; therefore, it is important to have valid animal models that accurately reflect these features. While the SOD1-G93A rat is extensively used as an ALS model, bulbar symptoms in this model are not well characterized. OBJECTIVE In the present study, we aimed to better characterize bulbar dysfunction in terms of histology to determine whether the SOD1-G93A rat is a useful model for bulbar-onset ALS. METHODS Sixty-day-old SOD1-G93A rats on a Sprague-Dawley background and age-matched wild-type controls were assessed weekly for global motor function, facial nerve function, and vagal nerve function. The study endpoint was determined when an SOD1-G93A rat could not right itself within 30 s of being placed on its side. At that point, neuronal counts were assessed in different brainstem cranial nerve nuclei. In addition, the masseter muscle, posterior belly of the digastric muscle, and tongue muscle were evaluated for intact neuromuscular junctions. RESULTS Our data demonstrate decreases in the number of motor neurons in the trigeminal, facial, and hypoglossal nuclei, as well as compromised neuromuscular junction integrity in the muscles they innervate. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that, from a histological standpoint, the SOD1-G93A rat is a valid model of ALS bulbar symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osama N Kashlan
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich., USA
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McGinley LM, McMahon J, Stocca A, Duffy A, Flynn A, O'Toole D, O'Brien T. Mesenchymal stem cell survival in the infarcted heart is enhanced by lentivirus vector-mediated heat shock protein 27 expression. Hum Gene Ther 2014; 24:840-51. [PMID: 23987185 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2011.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy offers the potential to promote recovery after myocardial infarction (MI). However, therapeutic efficacy may be limited by poor survival and retention of transplanted cells. A combination of gene and cell therapy has the capacity to prevent donor cell death and augment the reparative and regenerative effects of cell transfer. The present study investigates the effect of exogenous heat shock protein 27 (Hsp27) expression in MSCs in an in vitro model of ischemia and in an in vivo rat MI model and aims to determine if this could enhance the therapeutic benefit associated with cell delivery. Hsp27 overexpression by lentivirus vector modification resulted in increased MSC survival in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, decreased apoptosis in the infarcted tissue and improved cardiac function was observed in the Hsp27 group, enhancing the therapeutic effect of MSCs. Together, these data demonstrate that ex vivo genetic modification-specifically Hsp27 overexpression-offers the possibility of enhancing the efficacy of MSC therapy in MI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M McGinley
- 1 Regenerative Medicine Institute, National University of Ireland , Galway, Galway, Ireland
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Donnelly EM, Strappe PM, McGinley LM, Madigan NN, Geurts E, Rooney GE, Windebank AJ, Fraher J, Dockery P, O'Brien T, McMahon SS. Lentiviral vector-mediated knockdown of the NG2 [corrected] proteoglycan or expression of neurotrophin-3 promotes neurite outgrowth in a cell culture model of the glial scar. J Gene Med 2010; 12:863-72. [PMID: 21105148 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.1509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2010] [Revised: 09/06/2010] [Accepted: 09/23/2010] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Following spinal cord injury, a highly inhibitory environment for axonal regeneration develops. One of the main sources of this inhibition is the glial scar that is formed after injury by reactive astrocytes. The inhibitory environment is mainly a result of chondroitin sulphate proteoglycans (CSPGs). NG2, [corrected] one of the main inhibitory CSPGs, is up-regulated following spinal cord injury. METHODS Small interfering RNA (siRNA) was designed to target NG2 and this short hairpin RNA (shRNA) was cloned into a lentiviral vector (LV). The neurotrophic factor neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) promotes the growth and survival of developing neurites and has also been shown to aid regeneration. NT-3 was also cloned into a LV. In vitro assessment of these vectors using a coculture system of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurones and Neu7 astrocytes was carried out. The Neu7 cell line is a rat astrocyte cell line that overexpresses NG2, thereby mimicking the inhibitory environment following spinal cord injury. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION These experiments show that both the knockdown of NG2 via shRNA and over-expression of NT-3 can significantly increase neurite growth, although a combination of both vectors did not confer any additional benefit over the vectors used individually. These LVs show promising potential for growth and survival of neurites in injured central nervous system tissue (CNS).
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