Anle138b modulates alpha-synuclein oligomerization and prevents motor decline and neurodegeneration in a mouse model of multiple system atrophy

摘要

Background MSA is a fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by autonomic failure and severe motor impairment. Its main pathological hallmark is the accumulation of alpha-synuclein in oligodendrocytes, leading to glial and neuronal dysfunction and neurodegeneration. These features are recapitulated in the PLP-h alpha Syn mouse model expressing human alpha-synuclein in oligodendrocytes. At present, there is no effective disease-modifying therapy. Previous experiments have shown that the aggregation inhibitor, anle138b, reduces neurodegeneration and behavioral deficits in mouse models of other proteinopathies. Objectives To test the therapeutic potential of anle138b in a mouse model of MSA. Methods Two-month-old PLP-h alpha Syn mice were fed over a period of 4 months with pellets containing anle138b at two different doses (0.6 and 2 g/kg) and compared to healthy controls and PLP-h alpha Syn mice fed with placebo pellets. At the end of the treatment, behavioral and histological analyses were performed. Results We observed a reversal of motor function to healthy control levels when PLP-h alpha Syn mice were treated with both doses of anle138b. Histological and molecular analyses showed a significant reduction in alpha-synuclein oligomers and glial cytoplasmic inclusions in animals fed with anle138b compared to nontreated mice. These animals also present preservation of dopaminergic neurons and reduction in microglial activation in SN correlating with the alpha-synuclein reduction observed. Conclusions Anle138b reduces alpha-synuclein accumulation in PLP-h alpha Syn mice, leading to neuroprotection, reduction of microglial activation, and preservation of motor function supporting the use of anle138b in a future clinical trial for MSA. (c) 2018 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.