# Sephin1 reduces TDP-43 cytoplasmic mislocalization and improves motor neuron survival in ALS models

## TL;DR

Sephin1 helps reduce TDP-43 mislocalization and improves motor neuron survival in models of ALS, suggesting it could be a promising treatment.

## Contribution

Sephin1 is shown to reduce TDP-43 cytoplasmic mislocalization and toxicity in ALS models, offering a novel therapeutic approach.

## Key findings

- Sephin1 reduces TDP-43 cytoplasmic localization and improves motor neuron survival after glutamate intoxication.
- Sephin1 decreases TDP-43 in the triton-insoluble fraction in SOD1G93A mice and improves motor neuron survival.
- Sephin1 improves motor function and survival in TDP-43 transgenic zebrafish.

## Abstract

Sephin1, an UPR pathway modulator, mitigates TDP-43 cytoplasmic localization and toxicity in ALS motor neurons, improving their survival and showing potential as a therapeutic for ALS.

A pathological hallmark of ALS is the abnormal accumulation of misfolded proteins (e.g., TDP-43) and enlarged endoplasmic reticulum (ER), indicating ER stress. To resolve this stress, cells initiate the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR). However, unresolved stress leads to apoptosis. In ALS, UPR activation fails to resolve proteostasis impairment. UPR activation modulators, among them Sephin1, reduce protein aggregates and improve motor neuron survival in ALS models. We demonstrate that following glutamate intoxication, Sephin1 increases motor neuron survival by reducing mitochondria ROS production and extranuclear TDP-43. Sephin1 reduces abnormal splicing because of TDP-43 nuclear loss of function following oxidative stress. In SOD1G93A mice, Sephin1 treatment decreases TDP-43 in triton-insoluble fraction, improving motor neuron survival in spinal cord. Sephin1 improves motor neurons survival, motor function and survival of mutated TDP-43 transgenic zebrafish. Sephin1 improves motor neuron survival in ALS models by reducing TDP-43 cytoplasmic mislocalization and its toxicity. These findings open new therapeutic opportunities for Sephin1 in neurodegenerative pathologies with TDP-43 proteinopathy, including ALS.