High-Content Screening Identifies A Small Molecule That Restores AP-4-dependent Protein Trafficking In Neuronal Models Of AP-4-Associated Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia

ABSTRACT: Unbiased phenotypic screens in patient-relevant disease models offer the potential to detect therapeutic targets for rare diseases. In this study, we developed a high-throughput screening assay to identify molecules that correct aberrant protein trafficking in adaptor protein complex 4 (AP-4) deficiency, a rare but prototypical form of childhood-onset hereditary spastic paraplegia, characterized by mislocalization of the autophagy protein ATG9A. Using high-content microscopy and an automated image analysis pipeline, we screened a diversity library of 28,864 small molecules and identified a lead compound, BCH-HSP-C01, that restored ATG9A pathology in multiple disease models, including patient-derived fibroblasts and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons. We used multiparametric orthogonal strategies and integrated transcriptomic and proteomic approaches to delineate potential mechanisms of action of BCH-HSP-C01. Our results define molecular regulators of intracellular ATG9A trafficking and characterize a lead compound for the treatment of AP-4 deficiency, providing important proof-of-concept data for future studies.

INSTRUMENT(S):

ORGANISM(S): Homo Sapiens (human)

TISSUE(S): Pluripotent Stem Cell, Neuron

DISEASE(S): Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia 47,Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia 50,Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia 51,Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia 52

SUBMITTER: Alexandra Davies  

LAB HEAD: Georg H.

PROVIDER: PXD042950 | Pride | 2024-01-26

REPOSITORIES: Pride