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Comprehensive Autopsy Program for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: July 19, 2019
Reductions in neuronal peroxisomes in multiple sclerosis grey matter
Elizabeth Gray1, Claire Rice, Kelly Hares
1MS and Stem Cell Labs, University of Bristol, UK.
Multiple Sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)
|September 27, 2013
Summary
Multiple sclerosis (MS) grey matter shows reduced peroxisomal proteins and gene expression in neurons. These peroxisomal changes may contribute to neuronal dysfunction and degeneration in MS patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Peroxisomes are vital organelles involved in cellular detoxification and metabolism.
- Peroxisomal dysfunction is increasingly linked to multiple sclerosis (MS) disease progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate alterations in peroxisomes within grey matter (GM) of MS patients compared to controls.
Main Methods:
- Immunocytochemistry was used to assess peroxisomal membrane protein (PMP70) and neuronal proteins in MS and control GM.
- ABCD3 gene expression, encoding PMP70, was analyzed in MS and control GM.
- Very long chain fatty acid (VLCFA) levels in GM were measured.
Main Results:
- Significantly lower PMP70 immunolabelling was observed in neuronal somata of MS GM compared to controls.
- Overall decreased ABCD3 gene expression was detected in MS GM.
- Elevated levels of C26:0 (hexacosanoic acid) were found in MS GM, and PMP70 counts correlated with disease duration.
Conclusions:
- These findings indicate a reduction in peroxisomal gene expression and proteins within GM neurons in MS.
- Altered peroxisomal function may play a role in neuronal dysfunction and degeneration observed in MS.
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