Neuroproteomics and microRNAs studies in multiple sclerosis: transforming research and clinical knowledge in biomarker research.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex disease characterized by extensive phenotypic variability. Biomarkers to capture the different aspects of MS heterogeneity, and to help make a diagnosis and monitor disease progression, while providing insights into etiopathogenesis and response to treatment, are urgently needed. Omics technologies and research efforts with microRNAs have provide unparalleled opportunities for exploring altered protein profiles associated with molecular mechanisms of disease, substantially expanding the list of candidate biomarkers for MS. This review presents evidence from proteomic studies that have focused on identification of biomarkers released in biofluids as a result of the different pathophysiological processes of MS. Also discussed is the emerging role of miRNAs as complementary biomarkers related to cellular processes occurring in MS patients. Also provided is an overview of candidate biomarkers that have been proposed for elucidating pathophysiological processes and disease activity and for guiding clinical diagnosis and/or therapeutic interventions in MS.

Delayed sleep phase syndrome and bipolar disorder: Pathogenesis and available common biomarkers.

Circadian rhythm disturbances are common in bipolar affective disorder (BD). Delayed sleep-wake phase syndrome (DSWPD) is the most prevalent circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorder (CRSWDs) and is frequently observed in BD. It is unclear whether DSWPD in BD is an independent process or is a consequence of BD. In this hypothetical review, we discuss the overlap between BD and DSWPD and potential common biomarkers for DSWPD and BD. The review will include a discussion of the genetics of DSWPD and BD. Biomarkers elucidating the pathophysiological processes occurring in these two disorders may offer insight into the etiology and prognosis of both conditions.

ATP Binding Cassette Transporter ABCA7 Regulates NKT Cell Development and Function by Controlling CD1d Expression and Lipid Raft Content.

ABCA7 is an ABC transporter expressed on the plasma membrane, and actively exports phospholipid complexes from the cytoplasmic to the exocytoplasmic leaflet of membranes. Invariant NKT (iNKT) cells are a subpopulation of T lymphocytes that recognize glycolipid antigens in the context of CD1d-mediated antigen presentation. In this study, we demonstrate that ABCA7 regulates the development of NKT cells in a cell-extrinsic manner. We found that in Abca7-/- mice there is reduced expression of CD1d accompanied by an alteration in lipid raft content on the plasma membrane of thymocytes and antigen presenting cells. Together, these alterations caused by absence of ABCA7 negatively affect NKT cell development and function.