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Ricci FS, Stanga S, Mezzanotte M, Marinaccio C, D'Alessandro R, Somà A, Sottemano S, Conio A, Morana G, Spada M, Boido M, Mongini TE. Biochemical characterization on muscle tissue of a novel biallelic ACO2 mutation in an infant with progressive encephalopathy. JIMD Rep 2024; 65:3-9. [PMID: 38186851 PMCID: PMC10764196 DOI: 10.1002/jmd2.12400] [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: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The ACO2 gene encodes the mitochondrial protein aconitate hydratase, which is responsible for catalyzing the interconversion of citrate into isocitrate in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Mitochondrial aconitase is expressed ubiquitously, and deficiencies in TCA-cycle enzymes have been reported to cause various neurodegenerative diseases due to disruption of cellular energy metabolism and development of oxidative stress. We investigated a severe early infantile-onset neurometabolic syndrome due to a homozygous novel variant in exon 13 of the ACO2 gene. The in vitro pathogenicity of this variant of unknown significance was demonstrated by the loss of both protein expression and its enzymatic activity on muscle tissue sample taken from the patient. The patient presented with progressive encephalopathy soon after birth, characterized by hypotonia, progressive severe muscle atrophy, and respiratory failure. Serial brain magnetic resonance imaging showed progressive abnormalities compatible with a metabolic disorder, possibly mitochondrial. Muscle biopsy disclosed moderate myopathic alterations and features consistent with a mitochondriopathy albeit nonspecific. The course was characterized by progressive worsening of the clinical and neurological picture, and the patient died at 5 months of age. This study provides the first report on the validation in muscle from human subjects regarding in vitro analysis for mitochondrial aconitase activity. To our knowledge, no prior reports have demonstrated a correlation of phenotypic and diagnostic characteristics with in vitro muscle enzymatic activity of mitochondrial aconitase in humans. In conclusion, this case further expands the genetic spectrum of ACO2 variants and defines a complex case of severe neonatal neurometabolic disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Silvia Ricci
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Public Health and Pediatric SciencesUniversity of TurinTurinItaly
| | - Serena Stanga
- Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi Montalcini”Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of TurinTurinItaly
| | - Mariarosa Mezzanotte
- Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi Montalcini”Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of TurinTurinItaly
| | - Cristina Marinaccio
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Child Care and PathologyChildren Hospital “Regina Margherita”TurinItaly
| | - Rossella D'Alessandro
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Child Care and PathologyChildren Hospital “Regina Margherita”TurinItaly
| | - Alessandra Somà
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Public Health and Pediatric SciencesUniversity of TurinTurinItaly
| | - Stefano Sottemano
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Public Health and Pediatric SciencesUniversity of TurinTurinItaly
| | - Alessandra Conio
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Anesthesia, Resuscitation and Emergency DepartmentUniversity of TurinTurinItaly
| | - Giovanni Morana
- Neuroradiology Unit, Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi Montalcini”University of TurinTurinItaly
| | - Marco Spada
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Child Care and PathologyChildren Hospital “Regina Margherita”TurinItaly
| | - Marina Boido
- Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi Montalcini”Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of TurinTurinItaly
| | - Tiziana E. Mongini
- Division of Neurology 1, Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi Montalcini”University of TurinTurinItaly
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Panuzzo C, Pironi L, Maglione A, Rocco S, Stanga S, Riganti C, Kopecka J, Ali MS, Pergolizzi B, Bracco E, Cilloni D. mTORC2 Is Activated under Hypoxia and Could Support Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021234. [PMID: 36674750 PMCID: PMC9865638 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia is a critical condition that governs survival, self-renewal, quiescence, metabolic shift and refractoriness to leukemic stem cell (LSC) therapy. The present study aims to investigate the hypoxia-driven regulation of the mammalian Target of the Rapamycin-2 (mTORC2) complex to unravel it as a novel potential target in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) therapeutic strategies. After inducing hypoxia in a CML cell line model, we investigated the activities of mTORC1 and mTORC2. Surprisingly, we detected a significant activation of mTORC2 at the expense of mTORC1, accompanied by the nuclear localization of the main substrate phospho-Akt (Ser473). Moreover, the Gene Ontology analysis of CML patients' CD34+ cells showed enrichment in the mTORC2 signature, further strengthening our data. The deregulation of mTOR complexes highlights how hypoxia could be crucial in CML development. In conclusion, we propose a mechanism by which CML cells residing under a low-oxygen tension, i.e., in the leukemia quiescent LSCs, singularly regulate the mTORC2 and its downstream effectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Panuzzo
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Lucrezia Pironi
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandro Maglione
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy
| | - Simone Rocco
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy
| | - Serena Stanga
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy
| | - Chiara Riganti
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy
| | - Joanna Kopecka
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy
| | - Muhammad Shahzad Ali
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy
| | - Barbara Pergolizzi
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy
| | - Enrico Bracco
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy
| | - Daniela Cilloni
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy
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3
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Contino S, Suelves N, Vrancx C, Vadukul DM, Payen VL, Stanga S, Bertrand L, Kienlen-Campard P. Presenilin-Deficient Neurons and Astrocytes Display Normal Mitochondrial Phenotypes. Front Neurosci 2021; 14:586108. [PMID: 33551720 PMCID: PMC7862347 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.586108] [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: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Presenilin 1 (PS1) and Presenilin 2 (PS2) are predominantly known as the catalytic subunits of the γ-secretase complex that generates the amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide, the major constituent of the senile plaques found in the brain of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. Apart from their role in γ-secretase activity, a growing number of cellular functions have been recently attributed to PSs. Notably, PSs were found to be enriched in mitochondria-associated membranes (MAMs) where mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) interact. PS2 was more specifically reported to regulate calcium shuttling between these two organelles by controlling the formation of functional MAMs. We have previously demonstrated in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEF) an altered mitochondrial morphology along with reduced mitochondrial respiration and increased glycolysis in PS2-deficient cells (PS2KO). This phenotype was restored by the stable re-expression of human PS2. Still, all these results were obtained in immortalized cells, and one bottom-line question is to know whether these observations hold true in central nervous system (CNS) cells. To that end, we carried out primary cultures of PS1 knockdown (KD), PS2KO, and PS1KD/PS2KO (PSdKO) neurons and astrocytes. They were obtained from the same litter by crossing PS2 heterozygous; PS1 floxed (PS2+/-; PS1flox/flox) animals. Genetic downregulation of PS1 was achieved by lentiviral expression of the Cre recombinase in primary cultures. Strikingly, we did not observe any mitochondrial phenotype in PS1KD, PS2KO, or PSdKO primary cultures in basal conditions. Mitochondrial respiration and membrane potential were similar in all models, as were the glycolytic flux and NAD+/NADH ratio. Likewise, mitochondrial morphology and content was unaltered by PS expression. We further investigated the differences between results we obtained here in primary nerve cells and those previously reported in MEF cell lines by analyzing PS2KO primary fibroblasts. We found no mitochondrial dysfunction in this model, in line with observations in PS2KO primary neurons and astrocytes. Together, our results indicate that the mitochondrial phenotype observed in immortalized PS2-deficient cell lines cannot be extrapolated to primary neurons, astrocytes, and even to primary fibroblasts. The PS-dependent mitochondrial phenotype reported so far might therefore be the consequence of a cell immortalization process and should be critically reconsidered regarding its relevance to AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Contino
- Alzheimer Research Group, Molecular and Cellular Division (CEMO), Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nuria Suelves
- Alzheimer Research Group, Molecular and Cellular Division (CEMO), Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Céline Vrancx
- Alzheimer Research Group, Molecular and Cellular Division (CEMO), Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Devkee M. Vadukul
- Alzheimer Research Group, Molecular and Cellular Division (CEMO), Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Valery L. Payen
- Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterial (ADDB), Louvain Drug Research Institute (LDRI), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Serena Stanga
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Luc Bertrand
- Pole of Cardiovascular Research, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pascal Kienlen-Campard
- Alzheimer Research Group, Molecular and Cellular Division (CEMO), Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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Stanga S, Boido M, Kienlen-Campard P. How to Build and to Protect the Neuromuscular Junction: The Role of the Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010136. [PMID: 33374485 PMCID: PMC7794999 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is at the crossroad between the nervous system (NS) and the muscle. Following neurotransmitter release from the motor neurons (MNs), muscle contraction occurs and movement is generated. Besides eliciting muscle contraction, the NMJ represents a site of chemical bidirectional interplay between nerve and muscle with the active participation of Schwann cells. Indeed, signals originating from the muscle play an important role in synapse formation, stabilization, maintenance and function, both in development and adulthood. We focus here on the contribution of the Glial cell line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (GDNF) to these processes and to its potential role in the protection of the NMJ during neurodegeneration. Historically related to the maintenance and survival of dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra, GDNF also plays a fundamental role in the peripheral NS (PNS). At this level, it promotes muscle trophism and it participates to the functionality of synapses. Moreover, compared to the other neurotrophic factors, GDNF shows unique peculiarities, which make its contribution essential in neurodegenerative disorders. While describing the known structural and functional changes occurring at the NMJ during neurodegeneration, we highlight the role of GDNF in the NMJ–muscle cross-talk and we review its therapeutic potential in counteracting the degenerative process occurring in the PNS in progressive and severe diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). We also describe functional 3D neuromuscular co-culture systems that have been recently developed as a model for studying both NMJ formation in vitro and its involvement in neuromuscular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Stanga
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
- Laboratory of Brain Development and Disease, Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of Turin, 10043 Orbassano, Italy
- National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), 10125 Turin, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Marina Boido
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
- Laboratory of Brain Development and Disease, Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of Turin, 10043 Orbassano, Italy
- National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), 10125 Turin, Italy
| | - Pascal Kienlen-Campard
- Institute of Neuroscience (IoNS), Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), 1200 Bruxelles, Belgium;
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5
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Wyart E, Bindels LB, Mina E, Menga A, Stanga S, Porporato PE. Cachexia, a Systemic Disease beyond Muscle Atrophy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8592. [PMID: 33202621 PMCID: PMC7696729 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [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: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cachexia is a complication of dismal prognosis, which often represents the last step of several chronic diseases. For this reason, the comprehension of the molecular drivers of such a condition is crucial for the development of management approaches. Importantly, cachexia is a syndrome affecting various organs, which often results in systemic complications. To date, the majority of the research on cachexia has been focused on skeletal muscle, muscle atrophy being a pivotal cause of weight loss and the major feature associated with the steep reduction in quality of life. Nevertheless, defining the impact of cachexia on other organs is essential to properly comprehend the complexity of such a condition and potentially develop novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Wyart
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy; (E.W.); (E.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Laure B. Bindels
- Metabolism and Nutrition Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, UCLouvain, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Erica Mina
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy; (E.W.); (E.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Alessio Menga
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy; (E.W.); (E.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Serena Stanga
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, 10043 Orbassano (TO), Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Paolo E. Porporato
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy; (E.W.); (E.M.); (A.M.)
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6
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Menduti G, Rasà DM, Stanga S, Boido M. Drug Screening and Drug Repositioning as Promising Therapeutic Approaches for Spinal Muscular Atrophy Treatment. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:592234. [PMID: 33281605 PMCID: PMC7689316 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.592234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is the most common genetic disease affecting infants and young adults. Due to mutation/deletion of the survival motor neuron (SMN) gene, SMA is characterized by the SMN protein lack, resulting in motor neuron impairment, skeletal muscle atrophy and premature death. Even if the genetic causes of SMA are well known, many aspects of its pathogenesis remain unclear and only three drugs have been recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (Nusinersen-Spinraza; Onasemnogene abeparvovec or AVXS-101-Zolgensma; Risdiplam-Evrysdi): although assuring remarkable results, the therapies show some important limits including high costs, still unknown long-term effects, side effects and disregarding of SMN-independent targets. Therefore, the research of new therapeutic strategies is still a hot topic in the SMA field and many efforts are spent in drug discovery. In this review, we describe two promising strategies to select effective molecules: drug screening (DS) and drug repositioning (DR). By using compounds libraries of chemical/natural compounds and/or Food and Drug Administration-approved substances, DS aims at identifying new potentially effective compounds, whereas DR at testing drugs originally designed for the treatment of other pathologies. The drastic reduction in risks, costs and time expenditure assured by these strategies make them particularly interesting, especially for those diseases for which the canonical drug discovery process would be long and expensive. Interestingly, among the identified molecules by DS/DR in the context of SMA, besides the modulators of SMN2 transcription, we highlighted a convergence of some targeted molecular cascades contributing to SMA pathology, including cell death related-pathways, mitochondria and cytoskeleton dynamics, neurotransmitter and hormone modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Marina Boido
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Calabrese C, Panuzzo C, Stanga S, Andreani G, Ravera S, Maglione A, Pironi L, Petiti J, Shahzad Ali M, Scaravaglio P, Napoli F, Fava C, De Gobbi M, Frassoni F, Saglio G, Bracco E, Pergolizzi B, Cilloni D. Deferasirox-Dependent Iron Chelation Enhances Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Restores p53 Signaling by Stabilization of p53 Family Members in Leukemic Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21207674. [PMID: 33081324 PMCID: PMC7589297 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron is crucial to satisfy several mitochondrial functions including energy metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation. Patients affected by Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are frequently characterized by iron overload (IOL), due to continuous red blood cell (RBC) transfusions. This event impacts the overall survival (OS) and it is associated with increased mortality in lower-risk MDS patients. Accordingly, the oral iron chelator Deferasirox (DFX) has been reported to improve the OS and delay leukemic transformation. However, the molecular players and the biological mechanisms laying behind remain currently mostly undefined. The aim of this study has been to investigate the potential anti-leukemic effect of DFX, by functionally and molecularly analyzing its effects in three different leukemia cell lines, harboring or not p53 mutations, and in human primary cells derived from 15 MDS/AML patients. Our findings indicated that DFX can lead to apoptosis, impairment of cell growth only in a context of IOL, and can induce a significant alteration of mitochondria network, with a sharp reduction in mitochondrial activity. Moreover, through a remarkable reduction of Murine Double Minute 2 (MDM2), known to regulate the stability of p53 and p73 proteins, we observed an enhancement of p53 transcriptional activity after DFX. Interestingly, this iron depletion-triggered signaling is enabled by p73, in the absence of p53, or in the presence of a p53 mutant form. In conclusion, we propose a mechanism by which the increased p53 family transcriptional activity and protein stability could explain the potential benefits of iron chelation therapy in terms of improving OS and delaying leukemic transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Calabrese
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (G.A.); (A.M.); (L.P.); (J.P.); (M.S.A.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (M.D.G.); (F.F.); (G.S.); (B.P.); (D.C.)
| | - Cristina Panuzzo
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (G.A.); (A.M.); (L.P.); (J.P.); (M.S.A.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (M.D.G.); (F.F.); (G.S.); (B.P.); (D.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Serena Stanga
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Giacomo Andreani
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (G.A.); (A.M.); (L.P.); (J.P.); (M.S.A.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (M.D.G.); (F.F.); (G.S.); (B.P.); (D.C.)
| | - Silvia Ravera
- Human Anatomy Section, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Maglione
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (G.A.); (A.M.); (L.P.); (J.P.); (M.S.A.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (M.D.G.); (F.F.); (G.S.); (B.P.); (D.C.)
| | - Lucrezia Pironi
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (G.A.); (A.M.); (L.P.); (J.P.); (M.S.A.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (M.D.G.); (F.F.); (G.S.); (B.P.); (D.C.)
| | - Jessica Petiti
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (G.A.); (A.M.); (L.P.); (J.P.); (M.S.A.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (M.D.G.); (F.F.); (G.S.); (B.P.); (D.C.)
| | - Muhammad Shahzad Ali
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (G.A.); (A.M.); (L.P.); (J.P.); (M.S.A.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (M.D.G.); (F.F.); (G.S.); (B.P.); (D.C.)
| | - Patrizia Scaravaglio
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (G.A.); (A.M.); (L.P.); (J.P.); (M.S.A.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (M.D.G.); (F.F.); (G.S.); (B.P.); (D.C.)
| | - Francesca Napoli
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (F.N.); (E.B.)
| | - Carmen Fava
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (G.A.); (A.M.); (L.P.); (J.P.); (M.S.A.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (M.D.G.); (F.F.); (G.S.); (B.P.); (D.C.)
| | - Marco De Gobbi
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (G.A.); (A.M.); (L.P.); (J.P.); (M.S.A.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (M.D.G.); (F.F.); (G.S.); (B.P.); (D.C.)
| | - Francesco Frassoni
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (G.A.); (A.M.); (L.P.); (J.P.); (M.S.A.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (M.D.G.); (F.F.); (G.S.); (B.P.); (D.C.)
| | - Giuseppe Saglio
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (G.A.); (A.M.); (L.P.); (J.P.); (M.S.A.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (M.D.G.); (F.F.); (G.S.); (B.P.); (D.C.)
| | - Enrico Bracco
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (F.N.); (E.B.)
| | - Barbara Pergolizzi
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (G.A.); (A.M.); (L.P.); (J.P.); (M.S.A.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (M.D.G.); (F.F.); (G.S.); (B.P.); (D.C.)
| | - Daniela Cilloni
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (G.A.); (A.M.); (L.P.); (J.P.); (M.S.A.); (P.S.); (C.F.); (M.D.G.); (F.F.); (G.S.); (B.P.); (D.C.)
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Panuzzo C, Jovanovski A, Pergolizzi B, Pironi L, Stanga S, Fava C, Cilloni D. Mitochondria: A Galaxy in the Hematopoietic and Leukemic Stem Cell Universe. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113928. [PMID: 32486249 PMCID: PMC7312164 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are the main fascinating energetic source into the cells. Their number, shape, and dynamism are controlled by the cell’s type and current behavior. The perturbation of the mitochondrial inward system via stress response and/or oncogenic insults could activate several trafficking molecular mechanisms with the intention to solve the problem. In this review, we aimed to clarify the crucial pathways in the mitochondrial system, dissecting the different metabolic defects, with a special emphasis on hematological malignancies. We investigated the pivotal role of mitochondria in the maintenance of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and their main alterations that could induce malignant transformation, culminating in the generation of leukemic stem cells (LSCs). In addition, we presented an overview of LSCs mitochondrial dysregulated mechanisms in terms of (1) increasing in oxidative phosphorylation program (OXPHOS), as a crucial process for survival and self-renewal of LSCs,(2) low levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and (3) aberrant expression of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) with sustained mitophagy. Furthermore, these peculiarities may represent attractive new “hot spots” for mitochondrial-targeted therapy. Finally, we remark the potential of the LCS metabolic effectors to be exploited as novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Panuzzo
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Orbassano, Italy; (A.J.); (B.P.); (L.P.); (C.F.)
- Correspondence: (C.P.); (D.C.)
| | - Aleksandar Jovanovski
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Orbassano, Italy; (A.J.); (B.P.); (L.P.); (C.F.)
| | - Barbara Pergolizzi
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Orbassano, Italy; (A.J.); (B.P.); (L.P.); (C.F.)
| | - Lucrezia Pironi
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Orbassano, Italy; (A.J.); (B.P.); (L.P.); (C.F.)
| | - Serena Stanga
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, 10124 Turin, Italy;
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of Turin, 10043 Orbassano, Italy
| | - Carmen Fava
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Orbassano, Italy; (A.J.); (B.P.); (L.P.); (C.F.)
| | - Daniela Cilloni
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10043 Orbassano, Italy; (A.J.); (B.P.); (L.P.); (C.F.)
- Correspondence: (C.P.); (D.C.)
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9
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Stanga S, Brambilla L, Tasiaux B, Dang AH, Ivanoiu A, Octave JN, Rossi D, van Pesch V, Kienlen-Campard P. A Role for GDNF and Soluble APP as Biomarkers of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Pathophysiology. Front Neurol 2018; 9:384. [PMID: 29899726 PMCID: PMC5988896 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The current inability of clinical criteria to accurately identify the "at-risk group" for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) development as well as its unknown etiology are fueling the interest in biomarkers aimed at completing clinical approaches for the diagnosis. The Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is a diffusible peptide critically involved in neuronal differentiation and survival. GDNF is largely studied in various neurological and neuromuscular diseases, with a great interest in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The recent discovery of Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP)-dependent GDNF regulation driving neuro-muscular junctions' formation in APP null transgenic mice, prompts to study whether neurodegeneration relies on loss or gain of APP function and suggests that it could affect peripheral processes. Here, we explored a brand-new aspect of the loss of trophic support in ALS by measuring GDNF, APP, soluble APP fragments and Aβ peptides levels in SOD1WT or SOD1G93A transgenic mouse models of ALS and in human biological fluids [i.e. serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)] from ALS patients and control subjects. Our results show that both GDNF and soluble APP fragments levels are altered at the onset of motor deficits in mice and that their levels are also modified in patient samples. This study indicates that both GDNF and soluble APPα represent possible biomarkers for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Stanga
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Liliana Brambilla
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri SpA SB - IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Bernadette Tasiaux
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Anh H Dang
- Unité de Neurochimie, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Adrian Ivanoiu
- Neurology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Noël Octave
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Daniela Rossi
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri SpA SB - IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Vincent van Pesch
- Unité de Neurochimie, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Neurology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pascal Kienlen-Campard
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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10
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Contino S, Porporato PE, Bird M, Marinangeli C, Opsomer R, Sonveaux P, Bontemps F, Dewachter I, Octave JN, Bertrand L, Stanga S, Kienlen-Campard P. Presenilin 2-Dependent Maintenance of Mitochondrial Oxidative Capacity and Morphology. Front Physiol 2017; 8:796. [PMID: 29085303 PMCID: PMC5650731 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [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: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a pivotal role in the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), and yet the mechanisms underlying the impairment of mitochondrial function in AD remain elusive. Recent evidence suggested a role for Presenilins (PS1 or PS2) in mitochondrial function. Mutations of PSs, the catalytic subunits of the γ-secretase complex, are responsible for the majority of inherited AD cases (FAD). PSs were shown to be present in mitochondria and particularly enriched in mitochondria-associated membranes (MAM), where PS2 is involved in the calcium shuttling between mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). We investigated the precise contribution of PS1 and PS2 to the bioenergetics of the cell and to mitochondrial morphology in cell lines derived from wild type (PS+/+), PS1/2 double knock-out (PSdKO), PS2KO and PS1KO embryos. Our results showed a significant impairment in the respiratory capacity of PSdKO and PS2KO cells with reduction of basal oxygen consumption, oxygen utilization dedicated to ATP production and spare respiratory capacity. In line with these functional defects, we found a decrease in the expression of subunits responsible for mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) associated with an altered morphology of the mitochondrial cristae. This OXPHOS disruption was accompanied by a reduction of the NAD+/NADH ratio. Still, neither ADP/ATP ratio nor mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ) were affected, suggesting the existence of a compensatory mechanism for energetic balance. We observed indeed an increase in glycolytic flux in PSdKO and PS2KO cells. All these effects were truly dependent on PS2 since its stable re-expression in a PS2KO background led to a complete restoration of the parameters impaired in the absence of PS2. Our data clearly demonstrate here the crucial role of PS2 in mitochondrial function and cellular bioenergetics, pointing toward its peculiar role in the formation and integrity of the electron transport chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Contino
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Paolo E Porporato
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Matthew Bird
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Claudia Marinangeli
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Rémi Opsomer
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pierre Sonveaux
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Françoise Bontemps
- Metabolic Research Group, de Duve Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ilse Dewachter
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Noël Octave
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luc Bertrand
- Pole of Cardiovascular Research, Institute of Experimental and clinical Research, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Serena Stanga
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pascal Kienlen-Campard
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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11
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Stanga S, Vrancx C, Tasiaux B, Marinangeli C, Karlström H, Kienlen-Campard P. Specificity of presenilin-1- and presenilin-2-dependent γ-secretases towards substrate processing. J Cell Mol Med 2017; 22:823-833. [PMID: 28994238 PMCID: PMC5783875 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The two presenilin‐1 (PS1) and presenilin‐2 (PS2) homologs are the catalytic core of the γ‐secretase complex, which has a major role in cell fate decision and Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression. Understanding the precise contribution of PS1‐ and PS2‐dependent γ‐secretases to the production of β‐amyloid peptide (Aβ) from amyloid precursor protein (APP) remains an important challenge to design molecules efficiently modulating Aβ release without affecting the processing of other γ‐secretase substrates. To that end, we studied PS1‐ and PS2‐dependent substrate processing in murine cells lacking presenilins (PSs) (PS1KO, PS2KO or PS1‐PS2 double‐KO noted PSdKO) or stably re‐expressing human PS1 or PS2 in an endogenous PS‐null (PSdKO) background. We characterized the processing of APP and Notch on both endogenous and exogenous substrates, and we investigated the effect of pharmacological inhibitors targeting the PSs activity (DAPT and L‐685,458). We found that murine PS1 γ‐secretase plays a predominant role in APP and Notch processing when compared to murine PS2 γ‐secretase. The inhibitors blocked more efficiently murine PS2‐ than murine PS1‐dependent processing. Human PSs, especially human PS1, expression in a PS‐null background efficiently restored APP and Notch processing. Strikingly, and contrary to the results obtained on murine PSs, pharmacological inhibitors appear to preferentially target human PS1‐ than human PS2‐dependent γ‐secretase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Stanga
- Alzheimer Research group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Céline Vrancx
- Alzheimer Research group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bernadette Tasiaux
- Alzheimer Research group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Claudia Marinangeli
- Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR-S 1172 - JPArc - Centre de Recherche Jean-Pierre AUBERT, University of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Helena Karlström
- Center for Alzheimer Research, Division of Neurogeriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pascal Kienlen-Campard
- Alzheimer Research group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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12
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Opsomer R, Contino S, Stanga S, Doshina A, Pierrot N, Dewachter I, Octave JN, Kienlen-Campard P. APP-deficient neurons show a subtle differential gene expression pattern: impairment in the expression of the activity-dependent transcription factor, NPAS4. Front Neurosci 2017. [DOI: 10.3389/conf.fnins.2017.94.00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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13
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Decock M, Stanga S, Octave JN, Dewachter I, Smith SO, Constantinescu SN, Kienlen-Campard P. Glycines from the APP GXXXG/GXXXA Transmembrane Motifs Promote Formation of Pathogenic Aβ Oligomers in Cells. Front Aging Neurosci 2016; 8:107. [PMID: 27242518 PMCID: PMC4861705 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2016.00107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 02/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive cognitive decline leading to dementia. The amyloid precursor protein (APP) is a ubiquitous type I transmembrane (TM) protein sequentially processed to generate the β-amyloid peptide (Aβ), the major constituent of senile plaques that are typical AD lesions. There is a growing body of evidence that soluble Aβ oligomers correlate with clinical symptoms associated with the disease. The Aβ sequence begins in the extracellular juxtamembrane region of APP and includes roughly half of the TM domain. This region contains GXXXG and GXXXA motifs, which are critical for both TM protein interactions and fibrillogenic properties of peptides derived from TM α-helices. Glycine-to-leucine mutations of these motifs were previously shown to affect APP processing and Aβ production in cells. However, the detailed contribution of these motifs to APP dimerization, their relation to processing, and the conformational changes they can induce within Aβ species remains undefined. Here, we describe highly resistant Aβ42 oligomers that are produced in cellular membrane compartments. They are formed in cells by processing of the APP amyloidogenic C-terminal fragment (C99), or by direct expression of a peptide corresponding to Aβ42, but not to Aβ40. By a point-mutation approach, we demonstrate that glycine-to-leucine mutations in the G29XXXG33 and G38XXXA42 motifs dramatically affect the Aβ oligomerization process. G33 and G38 in these motifs are specifically involved in Aβ oligomerization; the G33L mutation strongly promotes oligomerization, while G38L blocks it with a dominant effect on G33 residue modification. Finally, we report that the secreted Aβ42 oligomers display pathological properties consistent with their suggested role in AD, but do not induce toxicity in survival assays with neuronal cells. Exposure of neurons to these Aβ42 oligomers dramatically affects neuronal differentiation and, consequently, neuronal network maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Decock
- CEMO-Alzheimer Dementia, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain Brussels, Belgium
| | - Serena Stanga
- CEMO-Alzheimer Dementia, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Noël Octave
- CEMO-Alzheimer Dementia, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ilse Dewachter
- CEMO-Alzheimer Dementia, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain Brussels, Belgium
| | - Steven O Smith
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook NY, USA
| | - Stefan N Constantinescu
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research - de Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pascal Kienlen-Campard
- CEMO-Alzheimer Dementia, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain Brussels, Belgium
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14
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Stanga S, Zanou N, Audouard E, Tasiaux B, Contino S, Vandermeulen G, René F, Loeffler JP, Clotman F, Gailly P, Dewachter I, Octave JN, Kienlen-Campard P. APP-dependent glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor gene expression drives neuromuscular junction formation. FASEB J 2015; 30:1696-711. [PMID: 26718890 DOI: 10.1096/fj.15-278739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Besides its crucial role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, the knowledge of amyloid precursor protein (APP) physiologic functions remains surprisingly scarce. Here, we show that APP regulates the transcription of the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). APP-dependent regulation of GDNF expression affects muscle strength, muscular trophy, and both neuronal and muscular differentiation fundamental for neuromuscular junction (NMJ) maturation in vivo In a nerve-muscle coculture model set up to modelize NMJ formation in vitro, silencing of muscular APP induces a 30% decrease in secreted GDNF levels and a 40% decrease in the total number of NMJs together with a significant reduction in the density of acetylcholine vesicles at the presynaptic site and in neuronal maturation. These defects are rescued by GDNF expression in muscle cells in the conditions where muscular APP has been previously silenced. Expression of GDNF in muscles of amyloid precursor protein null mice corrected the aberrant synaptic morphology of NMJs. Our findings highlight for the first time that APP-dependent GDNF expression drives the process of NMJ formation, providing new insights into the link between APP gene regulatory network and physiologic functions.-Stanga, S., Zanou, N., Audouard, E., Tasiaux, B., Contino, S., Vandermeulen, G., René, F., Loeffler, J.-P., Clotman, F., Gailly, P., Dewachter, I., Octave, J.-N., Kienlen-Campard, P. APP-dependent glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor gene expression drives neuromuscular junction formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Stanga
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nadège Zanou
- Laboratory of Cell Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Emilie Audouard
- Laboratory of Neural Differentiation, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bernadette Tasiaux
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sabrina Contino
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gaëlle Vandermeulen
- Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; and
| | - Frédérique René
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité 1118 Mécanismes Centraux et Périphériques de la Neurodégénérescence, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg Cedex, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Loeffler
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité 1118 Mécanismes Centraux et Périphériques de la Neurodégénérescence, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg Cedex, France
| | - Frédéric Clotman
- Laboratory of Neural Differentiation, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Philippe Gailly
- Laboratory of Cell Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ilse Dewachter
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Noël Octave
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pascal Kienlen-Campard
- Alzheimer Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium;
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15
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Decock M, El Haylani L, Stanga S, Dewachter I, Octave JN, Smith SO, Constantinescu SN, Kienlen-Campard P. Analysis by a highly sensitive split luciferase assay of the regions involved in APP dimerization and its impact on processing. FEBS Open Bio 2015; 5:763-73. [PMID: 26500837 PMCID: PMC4588712 DOI: 10.1016/j.fob.2015.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Revised: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyloid precursor protein (APP) dimerizes more than its C-terminal fragments in cells. Mutations of membrane GXXXG motifs affect Aβ production but not APP dimerization. Deletion of the APP intracellular domain increases APP dimerization.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that causes progressive loss of cognitive functions, leading to dementia. Two types of lesions are found in AD brains: neurofibrillary tangles and senile plaques. The latter are composed mainly of the β-amyloid peptide (Aβ) generated by amyloidogenic processing of the amyloid precursor protein (APP). Several studies have suggested that dimerization of APP is closely linked to Aβ production. Nevertheless, the mechanisms controlling APP dimerization and their role in APP function are not known. Here we used a new luciferase complementation assay to analyze APP dimerization and unravel the involvement of its three major domains: the ectodomain, the transmembrane domain and the intracellular domain. Our results indicate that within cells full-length APP dimerizes more than its α and β C-terminal fragments, confirming the pivotal role of the ectodomain in this process. Dimerization of the APP transmembrane (TM) domain has been reported to regulate processing at the γ-cleavage site. We show that both non-familial and familial AD mutations in the TM GXXXG motifs strongly modulate Aβ production, but do not consistently change dimerization of the C-terminal fragments. Finally, we found for the first time that removal of intracellular domain strongly increases APP dimerization. Increased APP dimerization is linked to increased non-amyloidogenic processing.
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Key Words
- AD, Alzheimer’s disease
- AICD, APP intracellular domain
- APP
- APP, amyloid precursor protein
- Alzheimer disease
- Amyloid beta peptide
- Aβ, β-amyloid peptide
- CHO, chinese hamster ovary
- CTF, C-terminal fragment
- DAPT, N-[N-(3,5-difluorophenacetyl)-l-alanyl]-S-phenylglycine t-butyl ester
- DTT, dithiothreitol
- Dimerization
- ECL, enzymatic chemi-luminescence
- ECLIA, electro-chemiluminescence immuno-assay
- FBS, fetal bovine serum
- FRET, fluorescence resonance energy transfer
- GXXXG motifs
- KPI, Kunitz-type protease inhibitor
- NSAIDs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- PBS, phosphate buffered saline
- PS1/PS2, presenilin1/presenilin2
- RLU, relative light unit
- SP, signal peptide
- Split luciferase
- TM, transmembrane
- YFP, yellow fluorescent protein
- sAPPα, soluble APPα
- sAPPβ, soluble APPβ
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Decock
- Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Laetitia El Haylani
- Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Serena Stanga
- Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Ilse Dewachter
- Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Jean-Noël Octave
- Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Steven O Smith
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5215, USA
| | - Stefan N Constantinescu
- de Duve Institute and Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels 1200, Belgium
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Hage S, Stanga S, Marinangeli C, Octave JN, Dewachter I, Quetin-Leclercq J, Kienlen-Campard P. Characterization of Pterocarpus erinaceus kino extract and its gamma-secretase inhibitory properties. J Ethnopharmacol 2015; 163:192-202. [PMID: 25639816 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2015.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2014] [Revised: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/21/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The aqueous decoction of Pterocarpus erinaceus has been traditionally used in Benin against memory troubles. AIM OF THE STUDY New strategies are needed against Alzheimer׳s disease (AD), for, to date, AD treatment is symptomatic and consists in drugs treating the cognitive decline. An interesting target is the β-amyloid peptide (Aβ), whose accumulation and progressive deposition into amyloid plaques are key events in AD aetiology. Identifying new and more selective γ-secretase inhibitors or modulators (none of the existing has proven so far to be selective or fully efficient) appears in this respect of particular interest. We studied the activity and mechanisms of action of Pterocarpus erinaceus kino aqueous extract, after the removal of catechic tannins (KAST). METHODS AND RESULTS We tested KAST at non-toxic concentrations on cells expressing the human Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP695), as well as on primary neurons. Pterocarpus erinaceus extract was found to inhibit Aβ release in both models. We further showed that KAST inhibited γ-secretase activity in cell-free and in vitro assays, strongly suggesting that KAST is a natural γ-secretase inhibitor. Importantly, this extract did not inhibit the cleavage of Notch, another γ-secretase substrate responsible for major detrimental side effects observed with γ-secretase inhibitors. Epicatechin was further identified in KAST by HPLC-MS. CONCLUSION Pterocarpus erinaceus kino extract appears therefore as a new γ-secretase inhibitor selective towards APP processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salim Hage
- Université catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium; Louvain Drug Research Institute (LDRI), Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium
| | - Serena Stanga
- Université catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium; Institute of Neuroscience (IoNS), Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium
| | - Claudia Marinangeli
- Université catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium; Institute of Neuroscience (IoNS), Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium
| | - Jean-Noël Octave
- Université catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium; Institute of Neuroscience (IoNS), Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium
| | - Ilse Dewachter
- Université catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium; Institute of Neuroscience (IoNS), Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium
| | - Joëlle Quetin-Leclercq
- Université catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium; Louvain Drug Research Institute (LDRI), Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium
| | - Pascal Kienlen-Campard
- Université catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium; Institute of Neuroscience (IoNS), Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium.
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Hage S, Marinangeli C, Stanga S, Octave JN, Quetin-Leclercq J, Kienlen-Campard P. Gamma-Secretase Inhibitor Activity of aPterocarpus erinaceusExtract. NEURODEGENER DIS 2014; 14:39-51. [DOI: 10.1159/000355557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 09/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Stanga S, Lanni C, Sinforiani E, Mazzini G, Racchi M. Searching for Predictive Blood Biomarkers: Misfolded p53 In Mild Cognitive Impairment. Curr Alzheimer Res 2012; 9:1191-7. [DOI: 10.2174/156720512804142886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2011] [Revised: 06/27/2012] [Accepted: 06/28/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Lenzken SC, Stanga S, Lanni C, De Leonardis F, Govoni S, Racchi M. Recruitment of casein kinase 2 is involved in AbetaPP processing following cholinergic stimulation. J Alzheimers Dis 2010; 20:1133-41. [PMID: 20413902 DOI: 10.3233/jad-2010-090232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The amyloid-beta protein precursor (AbetaPP) is an integral membrane protein subjected to constitutive and regulated proteolytic processing. We have previously demonstrated that protein kinase C epsilon (PKCepsilon) plays a key role in the regulation of AbetaPP metabolism via cholinergic receptors. The purpose of the present work is to clarify whether other putative signaling systems are involved in the same pharmacological pathway. We focused particularly on casein kinase 2 (CK2), demonstrating a direct interaction between PKCepsilon and CK2 following cholinergic stimulation. Treatment of human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells with a selective inhibitor of CK2 reduced the effect of carbachol on the release of sAbetaPPalpha. This treatment did not influence the activation and translocation of PKCepsilon suggesting that the latter is located upstream of CK2. On the basis of our results, we add another player to the complex cellular mechanisms regulating non-amyloidogenic processing of AbetaPP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia C Lenzken
- Department of Experimental and Applied Pharmacology, Centre of Excellence in Applied Biology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Abstract
p53 transcriptional activity depends mainly on posttranslational modifications and protein/protein interaction. Another important mechanism that controls p53 function is its conformational stability since p53 is an intrinsically unstable protein. An altered conformational state of p53, independent from point mutations, has been reported in tissues from patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD), leading to an impaired and dysfunctional response to stressors. Recent evidence shows that one of the activators that induces p53 posttranslational modification and wild-type conformational stability is homeodomain interacting protein kinase 2 (HIPK2). Hence, conditions that induce HIPK2 deregulation would result in a dysfunctional response to stressors by affecting p53 activity. Discovering the mechanisms of HIPK2 activation/inhibition and the ways to manipulate HIPK2 activity are an interesting option to affect several biological pathways, including those underlying AD. Soluble beta-amyloid peptides have recently been involved in HIPK2 degradation, in turn regulating the p53 conformational state and vulnerability to a noxious stimulus, before triggering the amyloidogenic cascade. Here we discuss about these findings and the potential relevance of HIPK2 as a target for AD and highlight the existence of a novel amyloid-based mechanism in AD potentially leading to the survival of injured dysfunctional cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Stanga
- Department of Experimental and Applied Pharmacology, Centre of Excellence in Applied Biology, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Lanni
- Department of Experimental and Applied Pharmacology, Centre of Excellence in Applied Biology, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefano Govoni
- Department of Experimental and Applied Pharmacology, Centre of Excellence in Applied Biology, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - Daniela Uberti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Brescia, Italy
| | - Gabriella D'Orazi
- Department of Oncology and Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University “G. d'Annunzio”, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Molecular Oncogenesis Laboratory, National Cancer Institute “Regina Elena”, 00158 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Racchi
- Department of Experimental and Applied Pharmacology, Centre of Excellence in Applied Biology, University of Pavia, Italy
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Lanni C, Racchi M, Stanga S, Mazzini G, Ranzenigo A, Polotti R, Memo M, Govoni S, Uberti D. Unfolded p53 in blood as a predictive signature signature of the transition from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2010; 20:97-104. [PMID: 20164600 DOI: 10.3233/jad-2010-1347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a syndrome defined as cognitive decline, but not sufficient to meet the criteria for any specific dementia. Although subjects with MCI may have an increased risk to develop AD, this clinical state encompasses several subtypes of cognitive dysfunction of different etiologies, none of which necessarily progresses to AD. The current inability of clinical criteria to accurately identify this at-risk group for AD development is fuelling the interest in biomarkers able to supplement clinical approaches. We recently described a blood-based cytofluorimetric method for conformationally altered p53 protein detection that allows the discrimination of AD patients from control subjects and patients affected by other dementias. The same protein also predicted progression to AD in preclinical patients with MCI two years before clinical diagnosis of AD was made. Herein, we describe these findings and discuss the potential of the test in diagnosing AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Lanni
- Department of Experimental and Applied Pharmacology, Centre of Excellence in Applied Biology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
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Lanni C, Nardinocchi L, Puca R, Stanga S, Uberti D, Memo M, Govoni S, D'Orazi G, Racchi M. Homeodomain interacting protein kinase 2: a target for Alzheimer's beta amyloid leading to misfolded p53 and inappropriate cell survival. PLoS One 2010; 5:e10171. [PMID: 20418953 PMCID: PMC2854690 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0010171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2010] [Accepted: 03/24/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Homeodomain interacting protein kinase 2 (HIPK2) is an evolutionary conserved serine/threonine kinase whose activity is fundamental in maintaining wild-type p53 function, thereby controlling the destiny of cells when exposed to DNA damaging agents. We recently reported an altered conformational state of p53 in tissues from patients with Alzheimer's Disease (AD) that led to an impaired and dysfunctional response to stressors. Methodology/Principal Findings Here we examined the molecular mechanisms underlying the impairment of p53 activity in two cellular models, HEK-293 cells overexpressing the amyloid precursor protein and fibroblasts from AD patients, starting from recent findings showing that p53 conformation may be regulated by HIPK2. We demonstrated that beta-amyloid 1–40 induces HIPK2 degradation and alters HIPK2 binding activity to DNA, in turn regulating the p53 conformational state and vulnerability to a noxious stimulus. Expression of HIPK2 was analysed by western blot experiments, whereas HIPK2 DNA binding was examined by chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis. In particular, we evaluated the recruitment of HIPK2 onto some target promoters, including hypoxia inducible factor-1α and metallothionein 2A. Conclusions/Significance These results support the existence of a novel amyloid-based pathogenetic mechanism in AD potentially leading to the survival of injured dysfunctional cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Lanni
- Department of Experimental and Applied Pharmacology, Centre of Excellence in Applied Biology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
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Lanni C, Stanga S, Racchi M, Govoni S. The Expanding Universe of Neurotrophic Factors: Therapeutic Potential in Aging and Age-Associated Disorders. Curr Pharm Des 2010; 16:698-717. [DOI: 10.2174/138161210790883741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2009] [Accepted: 10/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Lanni C, Racchi M, Uberti D, Mazzini G, Stanga S, Sinforiani E, Memo M, Govoni S. Pharmacogenetics and pharmagenomics, trends in normal and pathological aging studies: focus on p53. Curr Pharm Des 2009; 14:2665-71. [PMID: 18991686 DOI: 10.2174/138161208786264133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In spite of the fact that the aging organism is the result of complex life-long gene/environment interactions, making peculiar the susceptibility to diseases and the response to drugs, pharmacogenetics studies are largely neglected in the aged. Altered response to drugs, cardiovascular and metabolic alterations, cancer and dementia are among the age associated ailments. The latter two are the major contributors to illness burden for the aged. Aging, dementia and cancer share a critical set of altered cellular functions in the response to DNA damage, genotoxic stress, and other insults. Aging in higher animals may be influenced by the balance of cell survival versus death, a decision often governed by checkpoint proteins in dividing cells. The paper is mainly focused on one of such proteins, p53 which has been recently shown to be involved in aging and Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Within this reference frame we studied p53 in aged controls and demented patients finding that with aging there is an increase of mutant like conformation state of p53 in peripheral blood cells, which is more pronounced in AD patients. As a result of such conformational change, p53 partially loses its activity and may become unable to properly activate an apoptotic program when cells are exposed to a noxious stimulus. Moreover we found that the tertiary structure of p53 and the sensitivity to p53-dependent apoptosis are affected by low concentrations of soluble beta amyloid, the peptide that accumulates in AD brain but also present in peripheral tissues. It is possible that p53 conformers may occur in the presence of misfolded molecules such as, but not limited to, beta amyloid. In particular at neuronal level the altered function of cell cycle proteins may affect synaptic plasticity rather than cell duplication.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Lanni
- Department of Experimental and Applied Pharmacology, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 14, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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