Contribution of Nischarin/IRAS in CNS development, injury and diseases

Journal of Advanced Research, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jare.2023.01.020 · Published: January 27, 2023

Simple Explanation

Nischarin and its human version, IRAS, are proteins abundant in the central nervous system (CNS). Initially, Nischarin was known as a tumor suppressor, but now its role in the CNS is being explored. IRAS is studied for its impact on opioid dependence. This review aims to comprehensively examine their functions and mechanisms within the CNS. Nischarin/IRAS influences various CNS functions. During brain development, Nischarin guides neuron migration. After CNS injuries, it affects axon repair and neuron survival. Moreover, Nischarin/IRAS is involved in opioid dependence by regulating opioid receptors, and it also plays a role in psychiatric disorders. The review also looks at how Nischarin/IRAS interacts with different signaling pathways in the CNS. These pathways include those involved in cell movement, opioid dependence, and cell death. Understanding these interactions may reveal potential targets for treating neurological diseases.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
Nischarin/IRAS expression in the CNS is closely associated with the regulation of brain development, especially neuronal migration.
2
Upregulation of Nischarin/IRAS induced by CNS injuries inhibits axonal repair and affects neuronal apoptosis, suggesting a complex role in neuronal survival after injury.
3
Nischarin/IRAS promotes the circulation of the μ opioid receptor to regulate opioid dependence and mediates the occurrence of psychiatric diseases, indicating potential therapeutic targets for addiction and mental health disorders.

Research Summary

This review systematically analyzes the role and mechanism of Nischarin/IRAS in the CNS, providing references and possible targets for neurological disease treatment and broadening the direction of Nischarin/IRAS research. The pathophysiological processes affected by dysregulation of Nischarin/IRAS expression in the CNS include spinal cord injury (SCI), opioid dependence, anxiety, depression, and autism. The review summarizes the molecular mechanisms regulating Nischarin/IRAS expression and the signal transduction pathways it regulates, also prospectively discussing the clinical application of Nischarin/IRAS.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Target for CNS Injury

Targeting Nischarin/IRAS expression levels after CNS injury may protect damaged neurons and improve recovery outcomes.

Potential for Addiction Treatment

Understanding the role of Nischarin/IRAS in opioid dependence may lead to new therapies that promote opioid receptor resensitization.

Biomarker for Psychiatric Disorders

Dysregulation of Nischarin/IRAS expression in the brain could serve as a biomarker for diagnosing and differentiating subtypes of depression and autism.

Study Limitations

1
The specific role of Nischarin/IRAS in neuronal injury remains controversial.
2
The specific mechanisms of Nischarin/IRAS in the development of autism, depression, and anxiety require further systematic studies.
3
Achieving precise regulation of Nischarin/IRAS expression in vivo remains a challenge.

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