1
|
Zhu Q, Han F, Yu Y, Wang F, Wang Q, Shakeel A. A spinal circuit model with asymmetric cervical-lumbar layout controls backward locomotion and scratching in quadrupeds. Neural Netw 2024; 178:106422. [PMID: 38901095 DOI: 10.1016/j.neunet.2024.106422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Locomotion and scratching are basic motor functions which are critically important for animal survival. Although the spinal circuits governing forward locomotion have been extensively investigated, the organization of spinal circuits and neural mechanisms regulating backward locomotion and scratching remain unclear. Here, we extend a model by Danner et al. to propose a spinal circuit model with asymmetrical cervical-lumbar layout to investigate these issues. In the model, the left-right alternation within the cervical and lumbar circuits is mediated by V 0D and V 0V commissural interneurons (CINs), respectively. With different control strategies, the model closely reproduces multiple experimental data of quadrupeds in different motor behaviors. Specifically, under the supraspinal drive, walk and trot are expressed in control condition, half-bound is expressed after deletion of V 0V CINs, and bound is expressed after deletion of V0 (V 0D and V 0V) CINs; in addition, unilateral hindlimb scratching occurs in control condition and synchronous bilateral hindlimb scratching appears after deletion of V 0V CINs. Under the combined drive of afferent feedback and perineal stimulation, different coordination patterns between hindlimbs during BBS (backward-biped-spinal) locomotion are generated. The results suggest that (1) the cervical and lumbar circuits in the spinal network are asymmetrically recruited during particular rhythmic limb movements. (2) Multiple motor behaviors share a single spinal network under the reconfiguration of the spinal network by supraspinal inputs or somatosensory feedback. Our model provides new insights into the organization of motor circuits and neural control of rhythmic limb movements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qinghua Zhu
- College of Information Science and Technology, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Fang Han
- College of Information Science and Technology, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China.
| | - Ying Yu
- Department of Dynamics and Control, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Fengjie Wang
- College of Information Science and Technology, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Qingyun Wang
- Department of Dynamics and Control, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Awais Shakeel
- College of Information Science and Technology, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Syed DS, Ravbar P, Simpson JH. Inhibitory circuits generate rhythms for leg movements during Drosophila grooming. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.05.597468. [PMID: 38895414 PMCID: PMC11185647 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.05.597468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Limbs execute diverse actions coordinated by the nervous system through multiple motor programs. The basic architecture of motor neurons that activate muscles that articulate joints for antagonistic flexion and extension movements is conserved from flies to vertebrates. While excitatory premotor circuits are expected to establish sets of leg motor neurons that work together, our study uncovered a new instructive role for inhibitory circuits: their ability to generate rhythmic leg movements. Using electron microscopy data for the Drosophila nerve cord, we categorized ~120 GABAergic inhibitory neurons from the 13A and 13B hemi-lineages into classes based on similarities in morphology and connectivity. By mapping their synaptic partners, we uncovered pathways for inhibiting specific groups of motor neurons, disinhibiting antagonistic counterparts, and inducing alternation between flexion and extension. We tested the function of specific inhibitory neurons through optogenetic activation and silencing, using an in-depth ethological analysis of leg movements during grooming. We combined anatomy and behavior analysis findings to construct a computational model that can reproduce major aspects of the observed behavior, confirming the sufficiency of these premotor inhibitory circuits to generate rhythms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Durafshan Sakeena Syed
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Primoz Ravbar
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Julie H. Simpson
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
- Lead Contact
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Molkov YI, Yu G, Ausborn J, Bouvier J, Danner SM, Rybak IA. Sensory feedback and central neuronal interactions in mouse locomotion. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2024; 11:240207. [PMID: 39169962 PMCID: PMC11335407 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.240207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Locomotion is a complex process involving specific interactions between the central neural controller and the mechanical components of the system. The basic rhythmic activity generated by locomotor circuits in the spinal cord defines rhythmic limb movements and their central coordination. The operation of these circuits is modulated by sensory feedback from the limbs providing information about the state of the limbs and the body. However, the specific role and contribution of central interactions and sensory feedback in the control of locomotor gait and posture remain poorly understood. We use biomechanical data on quadrupedal locomotion in mice and recent findings on the organization of neural interactions within the spinal locomotor circuitry to create and analyse a tractable mathematical model of mouse locomotion. The model includes a simplified mechanical model of the mouse body with four limbs and a central controller composed of four rhythm generators, each operating as a state machine controlling the state of one limb. Feedback signals characterize the load and extension of each limb as well as postural stability (balance). We systematically investigate and compare several model versions and compare their behaviour to existing experimental data on mouse locomotion. Our results highlight the specific roles of sensory feedback and some central propriospinal interactions between circuits controlling fore and hind limbs for speed-dependent gait expression. Our models suggest that postural imbalance feedback may be critically involved in the control of swing-to-stance transitions in each limb and the stabilization of walking direction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaroslav I. Molkov
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA30303, USA
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA30303, USA
| | - Guoning Yu
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA30303, USA
| | - Jessica Ausborn
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA19129, USA
| | - Julien Bouvier
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay, Saclay91400, France
| | - Simon M. Danner
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA19129, USA
| | - Ilya A. Rybak
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA19129, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Prins CA, de Oliveira FL, de Mello Coelho V, Dos Santos Ribeiro EB, de Almeida JS, Silva NMB, Almeida FM, Martinez AMB. Galectin-3 absence alters lymphocytes populations dynamics behavior and promotes functional recovery after spinal cord injury in mice. Exp Neurol 2024; 377:114785. [PMID: 38670250 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) results from various mechanisms that damage the nervous tissue and the blood-brain barrier, leading to sensory and motor function loss below the injury site. Unfortunately, current therapeutic approaches for SCI have limited efficacy in improving patients outcomes. Galectin-3, a protein whose expression increases after SCI, influences the neuroinflammatory response by favoring pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages and microglia, while inhibiting pro-regenerative M2 macrophages and microglia, which are crucial for inflammation resolution and tissue regeneration. Previous studies with Galectin-3 knock-out mice demonstrated enhanced motor recovery after SCI. The M1/M2 balance is strongly influenced by the predominant lymphocytic profiles (Th1, Th2, T Reg, Th17) and cytokines and chemokines released at the lesion site. The present study aimed to investigate how the absence of galectin-3 impacts the adaptive immune system cell population dynamics in various lymphoid spaces following a low thoracic spinal cord compression injury (T9-T10) using a 30 g vascular clip for one minute. It also aimed to assess its influence on the functional outcome in wild-type (WT)and Galectin-3 knock-out (GALNEG) mice. Histological analysis with hematoxylin-eosin and Luxol Fast Blue staining revealed that WT and GALNEG animals exhibit similar spinal cord morphology. The absence of galectin-3 does not affect the common neuroanatomy shared between the groups prompting us to analyze outcomes between both groups. Following our crush model, both groups lost motor and sensory functions below the lesion level. During a 42-day period, GALNEG mice demonstrated superior locomotor recovery in the Basso Mouse Scale (BMS) gait analysis and enhanced motor coordination performance in the ladder rung walk test (LRW) compared to WT mice. GALNEG mice also exhibited better sensory recovery, and their electrophysiological parameters suggested a higher number of functional axons with faster nerve conduction. Seven days after injury, flow cytometry of thymus, spleen, and blood revealed an increased number of T Reg and Th2 cells, accompanied by a decrease in Th1 and Th17 cells in GALNEG mice. Immunohistochemistry conducted on the same day exhibited an increased number of Th2 and T Reg cells around the GALNEG's spinal cord lesion site. At 42-day dpi immunohistochemistry analyses displayed reduced astrogliosis and greater axon preservation in GALNEG's spinal cord seem as a reduction of GFAP immunostaining and an increase in NFH immunostaining, respectively. In conclusion, GALNEG mice exhibited better functional recovery attributed to the milder pro-inflammatory influence, compensated by a higher quantity of T Reg and Th2 cells. These findings suggest that galectin-3 plays a crucial role in the immune response after spinal cord injury and could be a potential target for clinical therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caio Andrade Prins
- Laboratório de Neurodegeneração e Reparo, Departamento de Patologia, Programa de Pós-graduação em Anatomia Patológica, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital Universitário Clementina Fraga Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Felipe Leite de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Interações Celulares, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Morfológicas, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Valeria de Mello Coelho
- Laboratório de lmunofisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Morfológicas, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Emanuela Bezerra Dos Santos Ribeiro
- Laboratório de Neurodegeneração e Reparo, Departamento de Patologia, Programa de Pós-graduação em Anatomia Patológica, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital Universitário Clementina Fraga Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Juliana Silva de Almeida
- Laboratório de Neurodegeneração e Reparo, Departamento de Patologia, Programa de Pós-graduação em Anatomia Patológica, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital Universitário Clementina Fraga Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Natalia Moraes Bechelli Silva
- Laboratório de Neurodegeneração e Reparo, Departamento de Patologia, Programa de Pós-graduação em Anatomia Patológica, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital Universitário Clementina Fraga Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Martins Almeida
- Laboratório de Neurodegeneração e Reparo, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Programa de Pós-graduação em Anatomia Patológica, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria Blanco Martinez
- Laboratório de Neurodegeneração e Reparo, Departamento de Patologia, Programa de Pós-graduação em Anatomia Patológica, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital Universitário Clementina Fraga Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mora S, Stuckert A, von Huth Friis R, Pietersz K, Noes-Holt G, Montañana-Rosell R, Wang H, Sørensen AT, Selvan R, Verhaagen J, Allodi I. Stabilization of V1 interneuron-motor neuron connectivity ameliorates motor phenotype in a mouse model of ALS. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4867. [PMID: 38849367 PMCID: PMC11161600 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48925-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Loss of connectivity between spinal V1 inhibitory interneurons and motor neurons is found early in disease in the SOD1G93A mice. Such changes in premotor inputs can contribute to homeostatic imbalance of motor neurons. Here, we show that the Extended Synaptotagmin 1 (Esyt1) presynaptic organizer is downregulated in V1 interneurons. V1 restricted overexpression of Esyt1 rescues inhibitory synapses, increases motor neuron survival, and ameliorates motor phenotypes. Two gene therapy approaches overexpressing ESYT1 were investigated; one for local intraspinal delivery, and the other for systemic administration using an AAV-PHP.eB vector delivered intravenously. Improvement of motor functions is observed in both approaches, however systemic administration appears to significantly reduce onset of motor impairment in the SOD1G93A mice in absence of side effects. Altogether, we show that stabilization of V1 synapses by ESYT1 overexpression has the potential to improve motor functions in ALS, demonstrating that interneurons can be a target to attenuate ALS symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Mora
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Anna Stuckert
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | | | - Kimberly Pietersz
- The Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gith Noes-Holt
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Haoyu Wang
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | | | - Raghavendra Selvan
- Department of Computer Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Joost Verhaagen
- The Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ilary Allodi
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Montañana-Rosell R, Selvan R, Hernández-Varas P, Kaminski JM, Sidhu SK, Ahlmark DB, Kiehn O, Allodi I. Spinal inhibitory neurons degenerate before motor neurons and excitatory neurons in a mouse model of ALS. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadk3229. [PMID: 38820149 PMCID: PMC11141618 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adk3229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by the progressive loss of somatic motor neurons. A major focus has been directed to motor neuron intrinsic properties as a cause for degeneration, while less attention has been given to the contribution of spinal interneurons. In the present work, we applied multiplexing detection of transcripts and machine learning-based image analysis to investigate the fate of multiple spinal interneuron populations during ALS progression in the SOD1G93A mouse model. The analysis showed that spinal inhibitory interneurons are affected early in the disease, before motor neuron death, and are characterized by a slow progressive degeneration, while excitatory interneurons are affected later with a steep progression. Moreover, we report differential vulnerability within inhibitory and excitatory subpopulations. Our study reveals a strong interneuron involvement in ALS development with interneuron specific degeneration. These observations point to differential involvement of diverse spinal neuronal circuits that eventually may be determining motor neuron degeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Raghavendra Selvan
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Computer Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pablo Hernández-Varas
- Core Facility for Integrated Microscopy, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jan M. Kaminski
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Computer Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Dana B. Ahlmark
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ole Kiehn
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ilary Allodi
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Herrera-Arcos G, Song H, Yeon SH, Ghenand O, Gutierrez-Arango S, Sinha S, Herr H. Closed-loop optogenetic neuromodulation enables high-fidelity fatigue-resistant muscle control. Sci Robot 2024; 9:eadi8995. [PMID: 38776378 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.adi8995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Closed-loop neuroprostheses show promise in restoring motion in individuals with neurological conditions. However, conventional activation strategies based on functional electrical stimulation (FES) fail to accurately modulate muscle force and exhibit rapid fatigue because of their unphysiological recruitment mechanism. Here, we present a closed-loop control framework that leverages physiological force modulation under functional optogenetic stimulation (FOS) to enable high-fidelity muscle control for extended periods of time (>60 minutes) in vivo. We first uncovered the force modulation characteristic of FOS, showing more physiological recruitment and significantly higher modulation ranges (>320%) compared with FES. Second, we developed a neuromuscular model that accurately describes the highly nonlinear dynamics of optogenetically stimulated muscle. Third, on the basis of the optogenetic model, we demonstrated real-time control of muscle force with improved performance and fatigue resistance compared with FES. This work lays the foundation for fatigue-resistant neuroprostheses and optogenetically controlled biohybrid robots with high-fidelity force modulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Herrera-Arcos
- K. Lisa Yang Center for Bionics, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Program in Media Arts and Sciences, MIT Media Lab, Cambridge, MA, USA
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Hyungeun Song
- K. Lisa Yang Center for Bionics, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology (HST), MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Seong Ho Yeon
- K. Lisa Yang Center for Bionics, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Program in Media Arts and Sciences, MIT Media Lab, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Omkar Ghenand
- K. Lisa Yang Center for Bionics, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Samantha Gutierrez-Arango
- K. Lisa Yang Center for Bionics, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Program in Media Arts and Sciences, MIT Media Lab, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Sapna Sinha
- K. Lisa Yang Center for Bionics, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Hugh Herr
- K. Lisa Yang Center for Bionics, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Bertho M, Caldeira V, Hsu LJ, Löw P, Borgius L, Kiehn O. Excitatory Spinal Lhx9-Derived Interneurons Modulate Locomotor Frequency in Mice. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e1607232024. [PMID: 38438260 PMCID: PMC11063822 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1607-23.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Locomotion allows us to move and interact with our surroundings. Spinal networks that control locomotion produce rhythm and left-right and flexor-extensor coordination. Several glutamatergic populations, Shox2 non-V2a, Hb9-derived interneurons, and, recently, spinocerebellar neurons have been proposed to be involved in the mouse rhythm generating networks. These cells make up only a smaller fraction of the excitatory cells in the ventral spinal cord. Here, we set out to identify additional populations of excitatory spinal neurons that may be involved in rhythm generation or other functions in the locomotor network. We use RNA sequencing from glutamatergic, non-glutamatergic, and Shox2 cells in the neonatal mice from both sexes followed by differential gene expression analyses. These analyses identified transcription factors that are highly expressed by glutamatergic spinal neurons and differentially expressed between Shox2 neurons and glutamatergic neurons. From this latter category, we identified the Lhx9-derived neurons as having a restricted spinal expression pattern with no Shox2 neuron overlap. They are purely glutamatergic and ipsilaterally projecting. Ablation of the glutamatergic transmission or acute inactivation of the neuronal activity of Lhx9-derived neurons leads to a decrease in the frequency of locomotor-like activity without change in coordination pattern. Optogenetic activation of Lhx9-derived neurons promotes locomotor-like activity and modulates the frequency of the locomotor activity. Calcium activities of Lhx9-derived neurons show strong left-right out-of-phase rhythmicity during locomotor-like activity. Our study identifies a distinct population of spinal excitatory neurons that regulates the frequency of locomotor output with a suggested role in rhythm-generation in the mouse alongside other spinal populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maëlle Bertho
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Vanessa Caldeira
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Li-Ju Hsu
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Löw
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lotta Borgius
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ole Kiehn
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mangiamele LA, Dawn A, LeCure KM, Mantica GE, Racicot R, Fuxjager MJ, Preininger D. How new communication behaviors evolve: Androgens as modifiers of neuromotor structure and function in foot-flagging frogs. Horm Behav 2024; 161:105502. [PMID: 38382227 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2024.105502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
How diverse animal communication signals have arisen is a question that has fascinated many. Xenopus frogs have been a model system used for three decades to reveal insights into the neuroendocrine mechanisms and evolution of vocal diversity. Due to the ease of studying central nervous system control of the laryngeal muscles in vitro, Xenopus has helped us understand how variation in vocal communication signals between sexes and between species is produced at the molecular, cellular, and systems levels. Yet, it is becoming easier to make similar advances in non-model organisms. In this paper, we summarize our research on a group of frog species that have evolved a novel hind limb signal known as 'foot flagging.' We have previously shown that foot flagging is androgen dependent and that the evolution of foot flagging in multiple unrelated species is accompanied by the evolution of higher androgen hormone sensitivity in the leg muscles. Here, we present new preliminary data that compare patterns of androgen receptor expression and neuronal cell density in the lumbar spinal cord - the neuromotor system that controls the hind limb - between foot-flagging and non-foot-flagging frog species. We then relate our work to prior findings in Xenopus, highlighting which patterns of hormone sensitivity and neuroanatomical structure are shared between the neuromotor systems underlying Xenopus vocalizations and foot-flagging frogs' limb movement and which appear to be species-specific. Overall, we aim to illustrate the power of drawing inspiration from experiments in model organisms, in which the mechanistic details have been worked out, and then applying these ideas to a non-model species to reveal new details, further complexities, and fresh hypotheses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A Mangiamele
- Department of Biological Sciences, Smith College, Northampton, MA 01063, United States of America.
| | - AllexAndrya Dawn
- Department of Biological Sciences, Smith College, Northampton, MA 01063, United States of America
| | - Kerry M LeCure
- Department of Biological Sciences, Smith College, Northampton, MA 01063, United States of America
| | - Gina E Mantica
- Department of Biological Sciences, Smith College, Northampton, MA 01063, United States of America
| | - Riccardo Racicot
- Department of Biological Sciences, Smith College, Northampton, MA 01063, United States of America
| | - Matthew J Fuxjager
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, United States of America
| | - Doris Preininger
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Vienna Zoo, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Gradwell MA, Ozeri-Engelhard N, Eisdorfer JT, Laflamme OD, Gonzalez M, Upadhyay A, Medlock L, Shrier T, Patel KR, Aoki A, Gandhi M, Abbas-Zadeh G, Oputa O, Thackray JK, Ricci M, George A, Yusuf N, Keating J, Imtiaz Z, Alomary SA, Bohic M, Haas M, Hernandez Y, Prescott SA, Akay T, Abraira VE. Multimodal sensory control of motor performance by glycinergic interneurons of the mouse spinal cord deep dorsal horn. Neuron 2024; 112:1302-1327.e13. [PMID: 38452762 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2024.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Sensory feedback is integral for contextually appropriate motor output, yet the neural circuits responsible remain elusive. Here, we pinpoint the medial deep dorsal horn of the mouse spinal cord as a convergence point for proprioceptive and cutaneous input. Within this region, we identify a population of tonically active glycinergic inhibitory neurons expressing parvalbumin. Using anatomy and electrophysiology, we demonstrate that deep dorsal horn parvalbumin-expressing interneuron (dPV) activity is shaped by convergent proprioceptive, cutaneous, and descending input. Selectively targeting spinal dPVs, we reveal their widespread ipsilateral inhibition onto pre-motor and motor networks and demonstrate their role in gating sensory-evoked muscle activity using electromyography (EMG) recordings. dPV ablation altered limb kinematics and step-cycle timing during treadmill locomotion and reduced the transitions between sub-movements during spontaneous behavior. These findings reveal a circuit basis by which sensory convergence onto dorsal horn inhibitory neurons modulates motor output to facilitate smooth movement and context-appropriate transitions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Gradwell
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Nofar Ozeri-Engelhard
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; Neuroscience PhD program, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Jaclyn T Eisdorfer
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Olivier D Laflamme
- Dalhousie PhD program, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada; Department of Medical Neuroscience, Atlantic Mobility Action Project, Brain Repair Center, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Melissa Gonzalez
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Aman Upadhyay
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; Neuroscience PhD program, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Laura Medlock
- Neurosciences & Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tara Shrier
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Komal R Patel
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Adin Aoki
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Melissa Gandhi
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Gloria Abbas-Zadeh
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Olisemaka Oputa
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Joshua K Thackray
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; Human Genetics Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Tourette International Collaborative Genetics Study (TIC Genetics)
| | - Matthew Ricci
- School of Computer Science and Engineering, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Arlene George
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Nusrath Yusuf
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; Neuroscience PhD program, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Jessica Keating
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Zarghona Imtiaz
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Simona A Alomary
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Manon Bohic
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Michael Haas
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Yurdiana Hernandez
- W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Steven A Prescott
- Neurosciences & Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Turgay Akay
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Atlantic Mobility Action Project, Brain Repair Center, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Victoria E Abraira
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhang H, Deska-Gauthier D, MacKay CS, Hari K, Lucas-Osma AM, Borowska-Fielding J, Letawsky RL, Akay T, Fenrich KK, Bennett DJ, Zhang Y. Widespread innervation of motoneurons by spinal V3 neurons globally amplifies locomotor output in mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.15.585199. [PMID: 38558998 PMCID: PMC10980013 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.15.585199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
While considerable progress has been made in understanding the neuronal circuits that underlie the patterning of locomotor behaviours such as walking, less is known about the circuits that amplify motoneuron output to enable adaptable increases in muscle force across different locomotor intensities. Here, we demonstrate that an excitatory propriospinal neuron population (V3 neurons, Sim1 + ) forms a large part of the total excitatory interneuron input to motoneurons (∼20%) across all hindlimb muscles. Additionally, V3 neurons make extensive connections among themselves and with other excitatory premotor neurons (such as V2a neurons). These circuits allow local activation of V3 neurons at just one segment (via optogenetics) to rapidly depolarize and amplify locomotor-related motoneuron output at all lumbar segments in both the in vitro spinal cord and the awake adult mouse. Interestingly, despite similar innervation from V3 neurons to flexor and extensor motoneuron pools, functionally, V3 neurons exhibit a pronounced bias towards activating extensor muscles. Furthermore, the V3 neurons appear essential to extensor activity during locomotion because genetically silencing them leads to slower and weaker mice with a poor ability to increase force with locomotor intensity, without much change in the timing of locomotion. Overall, V3 neurons increase the excitability of motoneurons and premotor neurons, thereby serving as global command neurons that amplify the locomotion intensity.
Collapse
|
12
|
Jaarsma D, Birkisdóttir MB, van Vossen R, Oomen DWGD, Akhiyat O, Vermeij WP, Koekkoek SKE, De Zeeuw CI, Bosman LWJ. Different Purkinje cell pathologies cause specific patterns of progressive gait ataxia in mice. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 192:106422. [PMID: 38286390 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Gait ataxia is one of the most common and impactful consequences of cerebellar dysfunction. Purkinje cells, the sole output neurons of the cerebellar cortex, are often involved in the underlying pathology, but their specific functions during locomotor control in health and disease remain obfuscated. We aimed to describe the effect of gradual adult-onset Purkinje cell degeneration on gaiting patterns in mice, and to determine whether two different mechanisms that both lead to Purkinje cell degeneration cause different patterns in the development of gait ataxia. Using the ErasmusLadder together with a newly developed limb detection algorithm and machine learning-based classification, we subjected mice to a challenging locomotor task with detailed analysis of single limb parameters, intralimb coordination and whole-body movement. We tested two Purkinje cell-specific mouse models, one involving stochastic cell death due to impaired DNA repair mechanisms (Pcp2-Ercc1-/-), the other carrying the mutation that causes spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (Pcp2-ATXN1[82Q]). Both mouse models showed progressive gaiting deficits, but the sequence with which gaiting parameters deteriorated was different between mouse lines. Our longitudinal approach revealed that gradual loss of Purkinje cell function can lead to a complex pattern of loss of function over time, and that this pattern depends on the specifics of the pathological mechanisms involved. We hypothesize that this variability will also be present in disease progression in patients, and that our findings will facilitate the study of therapeutic interventions in mice, as subtle changes in locomotor abilities can be quantified by our methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dick Jaarsma
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, 3015 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Maria B Birkisdóttir
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, 3015 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Randy van Vossen
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, 3015 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Demi W G D Oomen
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, 3015 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Oussama Akhiyat
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, 3015 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Wilbert P Vermeij
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, 3521 AL, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Chris I De Zeeuw
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, 3015 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Dutch Academy of Arts & Science, 1105 BA, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Laurens W J Bosman
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, 3015 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hsiang JC, Shen N, Soto F, Kerschensteiner D. Distributed feature representations of natural stimuli across parallel retinal pathways. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1920. [PMID: 38429280 PMCID: PMC10907388 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46348-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
How sensory systems extract salient features from natural environments and organize them across neural pathways is unclear. Combining single-cell and population two-photon calcium imaging in mice, we discover that retinal ON bipolar cells (second-order neurons of the visual system) are divided into two blocks of four types. The two blocks distribute temporal and spatial information encoding, respectively. ON bipolar cell axons co-stratify within each block, but separate laminarly between them (upper block: diverse temporal, uniform spatial tuning; lower block: diverse spatial, uniform temporal tuning). ON bipolar cells extract temporal and spatial features similarly from artificial and naturalistic stimuli. In addition, they differ in sensitivity to coherent motion in naturalistic movies. Motion information is distributed across ON bipolar cells in the upper and the lower blocks, multiplexed with temporal and spatial contrast, independent features of natural scenes. Comparing the responses of different boutons within the same arbor, we find that axons of all ON bipolar cell types function as computational units. Thus, our results provide insights into the visual feature extraction from naturalistic stimuli and reveal how structural and functional organization cooperate to generate parallel ON pathways for temporal and spatial information in the mammalian retina.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jen-Chun Hsiang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Ning Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Florentina Soto
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Daniel Kerschensteiner
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Borrus DS, Stettler MK, Grover CJ, Kalajian EJ, Gu J, Conradi Smith GD, Del Negro CA. Inspiratory and sigh breathing rhythms depend on distinct cellular signalling mechanisms in the preBötzinger complex. J Physiol 2024; 602:809-834. [PMID: 38353596 PMCID: PMC10940220 DOI: 10.1113/jp285582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Breathing behaviour involves the generation of normal breaths (eupnoea) on a timescale of seconds and sigh breaths on the order of minutes. Both rhythms emerge in tandem from a single brainstem site, but whether and how a single cell population can generate two disparate rhythms remains unclear. We posit that recurrent synaptic excitation in concert with synaptic depression and cellular refractoriness gives rise to the eupnoea rhythm, whereas an intracellular calcium oscillation that is slower by orders of magnitude gives rise to the sigh rhythm. A mathematical model capturing these dynamics simultaneously generates eupnoea and sigh rhythms with disparate frequencies, which can be separately regulated by physiological parameters. We experimentally validated key model predictions regarding intracellular calcium signalling. All vertebrate brains feature a network oscillator that drives the breathing pump for regular respiration. However, in air-breathing mammals with compliant lungs susceptible to collapse, the breathing rhythmogenic network may have refashioned ubiquitous intracellular signalling systems to produce a second slower rhythm (for sighs) that prevents atelectasis without impeding eupnoea. KEY POINTS: A simplified activity-based model of the preBötC generates inspiratory and sigh rhythms from a single neuron population. Inspiration is attributable to a canonical excitatory network oscillator mechanism. Sigh emerges from intracellular calcium signalling. The model predicts that perturbations of calcium uptake and release across the endoplasmic reticulum counterintuitively accelerate and decelerate sigh rhythmicity, respectively, which was experimentally validated. Vertebrate evolution may have adapted existing intracellular signalling mechanisms to produce slow oscillations needed to optimize pulmonary function in mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S. Borrus
- Applied Science and Neuroscience, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185
| | - Marco K. Stettler
- Applied Science and Neuroscience, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185
| | - Cameron J. Grover
- Applied Science and Neuroscience, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185
| | - Eva J. Kalajian
- Applied Science and Neuroscience, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185
| | - Jeffrey Gu
- Applied Science and Neuroscience, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185
| | - Gregory D. Conradi Smith
- Applied Science and Neuroscience, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185
- Conradi Smith and Del Negro contributed equally
| | - Christopher A. Del Negro
- Applied Science and Neuroscience, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185
- Conradi Smith and Del Negro contributed equally
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ertlen C, Seblani M, Bonnet M, Brezun JM, Coyle T, Sabatier F, Fuentes S, Decherchi P, Serratrice N, Marqueste T. Efficacy of the immediate adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction autograft on functional sensorimotor recovery after spinal cord contusion in rats. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:29. [PMID: 38303017 PMCID: PMC10835949 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03645-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal cord injuries (SCI) lead to functional alteration with important consequences such as motor and sensory disorders. The repair strategies developed to date remain ineffective. The adipose tissue-derived stromal vascular fraction (SVF) is composed of a cocktail of cells with trophic, pro-angiogenic and immunomodulatory effects. Numerous therapeutic benefits were shown for tissue reconstitution, peripheral neuropathy and for the improvement of neurodegenerative diseases. Here, the therapeutic efficacy of SVF on sensorimotor recovery after an acute thoracic spinal cord contusion in adult rats was determined. METHOD Male Sprague Dawley rats (n = 45) were divided into 3 groups: SHAM (without SCI and treatment), NaCl (animals with a spinal lesion and receiving a saline injection through the dura mater) and SVF (animals with a spinal lesion and receiving a fraction of fat removed from adipocytes through the dura mater). Some animals were sacrificed 14 days after the start of the experiment to determine the inflammatory reaction by measuring the interleukin-1β, interleukin-6 and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α in the lesion area. Other animals were followed once a week for 12 weeks to assess functional recovery (postural and locomotor activities, sensorimotor coordination). At the end of this period, spinal reflexivity (rate-dependent depression of the H-reflex) and physiological adjustments (ventilatory response to metabosensitive muscle activation following muscle fatigue) were measured with electrophysiological tools. RESULTS Compared to non-treated animals, results indicated that the SVF reduced the endogenous inflammation and increased the behavioral recovery in treated animals. Moreover, H-reflex depression and ventilatory adjustments to muscle fatigue were found to be comparable between SHAM and SVF groups. CONCLUSION Our results highlight the effectiveness of SVF and its high therapeutic potential to improve sensorimotor functions and to restore the segmental sensorimotor loop and the communication between supra- and sub-lesional spinal cord regions after traumatic contusion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Céline Ertlen
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, ISM UMR 7287, Institut des Sciences du Mouvement: Etienne-Jules MAREY, Equipe Plasticité Des Systèmes Nerveux Et Musculaire (PSNM), Parc Scientifique Et Technologique de Luminy, Aix Marseille Univ, CC910 - 163, Avenue de Luminy, 13288, Marseille Cedex 09, France
| | - Mostafa Seblani
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, ISM UMR 7287, Institut des Sciences du Mouvement: Etienne-Jules MAREY, Equipe Plasticité Des Systèmes Nerveux Et Musculaire (PSNM), Parc Scientifique Et Technologique de Luminy, Aix Marseille Univ, CC910 - 163, Avenue de Luminy, 13288, Marseille Cedex 09, France
| | - Maxime Bonnet
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, ISM UMR 7287, Institut des Sciences du Mouvement: Etienne-Jules MAREY, Equipe Plasticité Des Systèmes Nerveux Et Musculaire (PSNM), Parc Scientifique Et Technologique de Luminy, Aix Marseille Univ, CC910 - 163, Avenue de Luminy, 13288, Marseille Cedex 09, France
| | - Jean-Michel Brezun
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, ISM UMR 7287, Institut des Sciences du Mouvement: Etienne-Jules MAREY, Equipe Plasticité Des Systèmes Nerveux Et Musculaire (PSNM), Parc Scientifique Et Technologique de Luminy, Aix Marseille Univ, CC910 - 163, Avenue de Luminy, 13288, Marseille Cedex 09, France
| | - Thelma Coyle
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, ISM UMR 7287, Institut des Sciences du Mouvement: Etienne-Jules MAREY, Equipe Plasticité Des Systèmes Nerveux Et Musculaire (PSNM), Parc Scientifique Et Technologique de Luminy, Aix Marseille Univ, CC910 - 163, Avenue de Luminy, 13288, Marseille Cedex 09, France
| | - Florence Sabatier
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), INSERM 1409 Centre d'Investigation Clinique en Biothérapies, Unité de Culture Et Thérapie Cellulaire, Hôpital de La Conception, 147, Boulevard Baille, 13385, Marseille Cedex 05, France
| | - Stéphane Fuentes
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Service de Neurochirurgie, Hôpital de La Timone, 264, Rue Saint-Pierre, 13005, Marseille, France
| | - Patrick Decherchi
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, ISM UMR 7287, Institut des Sciences du Mouvement: Etienne-Jules MAREY, Equipe Plasticité Des Systèmes Nerveux Et Musculaire (PSNM), Parc Scientifique Et Technologique de Luminy, Aix Marseille Univ, CC910 - 163, Avenue de Luminy, 13288, Marseille Cedex 09, France.
| | - Nicolas Serratrice
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, ISM UMR 7287, Institut des Sciences du Mouvement: Etienne-Jules MAREY, Equipe Plasticité Des Systèmes Nerveux Et Musculaire (PSNM), Parc Scientifique Et Technologique de Luminy, Aix Marseille Univ, CC910 - 163, Avenue de Luminy, 13288, Marseille Cedex 09, France
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Service de Neurochirurgie, Hôpital de La Timone, 264, Rue Saint-Pierre, 13005, Marseille, France
| | - Tanguy Marqueste
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, ISM UMR 7287, Institut des Sciences du Mouvement: Etienne-Jules MAREY, Equipe Plasticité Des Systèmes Nerveux Et Musculaire (PSNM), Parc Scientifique Et Technologique de Luminy, Aix Marseille Univ, CC910 - 163, Avenue de Luminy, 13288, Marseille Cedex 09, France.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Mistretta OC, Wood RL, English AW, Alvarez FJ. Air-stepping in the neonatal mouse: a powerful tool for analyzing early stages of rhythmic limb movement development. J Neurophysiol 2024; 131:321-337. [PMID: 38198656 PMCID: PMC11305634 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00227.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a lack of experimental methods in genetically tractable mouse models to analyze the developmental period at which newborns mature weight-bearing locomotion. To overcome this deficit, we introduce methods to study l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (l-DOPA)-induced air-stepping in mice at postnatal day (P)7 and P10. Air-stepping is a stereotypic rhythmic behavior that resembles mouse walking overground locomotion but without constraints imposed by weight bearing, postural adjustments, or sensory feedback. We propose that air-stepping represents the functional organization of early spinal circuits coordinating limb movements. After subcutaneous injection of l-DOPA (0.5 mg/g), we recorded air-stepping movements in all four limbs and electromyographic (EMG) activity from ankle flexor (tibialis anterior, TA) and extensor (lateral gastrocnemius, LG) muscles. Using DeepLabCut pose estimation, we analyzed rhythmicity and limb coordination. We demonstrate steady rhythmic stepping of similar duration from P7 to P10 but with some fine-tuning of interlimb coordination with age. Hindlimb joints undergo a greater range of flexion at older ages, indicating maturation of flexion-extension cycles as the animal starts to walk. EMG recordings of TA and LG show alternation but with more focused activation particularly in the LG from P7 to P10. We discuss similarities to neonatal rat l-DOPA-induced air-stepping and infant assisted walking. We conclude that limb coordination and muscle activations recorded with this method represent basic spinal cord circuitry for limb control in neonates and pave the way for future investigations on the development of rhythmic limb control in genetic or disease models with correctly or erroneously developing motor circuitry.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We present novel methods to study neonatal air-stepping in newborn mice. These methods allow analyses at the onset of limb coordination during the period in which altricial species like rats, mice, and humans "learn" to walk. The methods will be useful to test a large variety of mutations that serve as models of motor disease in newborns or that are used to probe for specific circuit mechanisms that generate coordinated limb motor output.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivia C Mistretta
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
| | - Ryan L Wood
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
| | - Arthur W English
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
| | - Francisco J Alvarez
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Deska-Gauthier D, Borowska-Fielding J, Jones C, Zhang H, MacKay CS, Michail R, Bennett LA, Bikoff JB, Zhang Y. Embryonic temporal-spatial delineation of excitatory spinal V3 interneuron diversity. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113635. [PMID: 38160393 PMCID: PMC10877927 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal neural circuits that execute movement are composed of cardinal classes of neurons that emerged from distinct progenitor lineages. Each cardinal class contains multiple neuronal subtypes characterized by distinct molecular, anatomical, and physiological characteristics. Through a focus on the excitatory V3 interneuron class, here we demonstrate that interneuron subtype diversity is delineated through a combination of neurogenesis timing and final laminar settling position. We have revealed that early-born and late-born embryonic V3 temporal classes further diversify into subclasses with spatially and molecularly discrete identities. While neurogenesis timing accounts for V3 morphological diversification, laminar settling position accounts for electrophysiological profiles distinguishing V3 subtypes within the same temporal classes. Furthermore, V3 interneuron subtypes display independent behavioral recruitment patterns demonstrating a functional modularity underlying V3 interneuron diversity. These studies provide a framework for how early embryonic temporal and spatial mechanisms combine to delineate spinal interneuron classes into molecularly, anatomically, and functionally relevant subtypes in adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dylan Deska-Gauthier
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Joanna Borowska-Fielding
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Chris Jones
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Han Zhang
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Colin S MacKay
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Ramez Michail
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Laura A Bennett
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Jay B Bikoff
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Pallucchi I, Bertuzzi M, Madrid D, Fontanel P, Higashijima SI, El Manira A. Molecular blueprints for spinal circuit modules controlling locomotor speed in zebrafish. Nat Neurosci 2024; 27:78-89. [PMID: 37919423 PMCID: PMC10774144 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-023-01479-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
The flexibility of motor actions is ingrained in the diversity of neurons and how they are organized into functional circuit modules, yet our knowledge of the molecular underpinning of motor circuit modularity remains limited. Here we use adult zebrafish to link the molecular diversity of motoneurons (MNs) and the rhythm-generating V2a interneurons (INs) with the modular circuit organization that is responsible for changes in locomotor speed. We show that the molecular diversity of MNs and V2a INs reflects their functional segregation into slow, intermediate or fast subtypes. Furthermore, we reveal shared molecular signatures between V2a INs and MNs of the three speed circuit modules. Overall, by characterizing how the molecular diversity of MNs and V2a INs relates to their function, connectivity and behavior, our study provides important insights not only into the molecular mechanisms for neuronal and circuit diversity for locomotor flexibility but also for charting circuits for motor actions in general.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Pallucchi
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Bertuzzi
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - David Madrid
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pierre Fontanel
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Shin-Ichi Higashijima
- Division of Behavioral Neurobiology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan
- Neuronal Networks Research Group, Exploratory Research Center on Life and Living Systems (ExCELLS), Okazaki, Japan
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Baruzzi V, Lodi M, Storace M. Optimization strategies to obtain smooth gait transitions through biologically plausible central pattern generators. Phys Rev E 2024; 109:014404. [PMID: 38366407 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.109.014404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Central pattern generators are small networks that contribute to generating animal locomotion. The models used to study gait generation and gait transition mechanisms often require biologically accurate neuron and synapse models, with high dimensionality and complex dynamics. Tuning the parameters of these models to elicit network dynamics compatible with gait features is not a trivial task, due to the impossibility of inferring a priori the effects of each parameter on the nonlinear system's emergent dynamics. In this paper we explore the use of global optimization strategies for parameter optimization in multigait central pattern generator (CPG) models with complex cell dynamics and minimal topology. We first consider an existing quadruped CPG model as a test bed for the objective function formulation, then proceed to optimize the parameters of a newly proposed multigait, interlimb hexapod CPG model. We successfully obtain hexapod gaits and prompt gait transitions by varying only control currents, while all CPG parameters, once optimized, are kept fixed. This mechanism of gait transitions is compatible with short-term synaptic plasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V Baruzzi
- Department of Electrical, Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering and Naval Architecture, University of Genoa, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - M Lodi
- Department of Electrical, Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering and Naval Architecture, University of Genoa, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - M Storace
- Department of Electrical, Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering and Naval Architecture, University of Genoa, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Shepard CT, Brown BL, Van Rijswijck MA, Zalla RM, Burke DA, Morehouse JR, Riegler AS, Whittemore SR, Magnuson DSK. Silencing long-descending inter-enlargement propriospinal neurons improves hindlimb stepping after contusive spinal cord injuries. eLife 2023; 12:e82944. [PMID: 38099572 PMCID: PMC10776087 DOI: 10.7554/elife.82944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal locomotor circuitry is comprised of rhythm generating centers, one for each limb, that are interconnected by local and long-distance propriospinal neurons thought to carry temporal information necessary for interlimb coordination and gait control. We showed previously that conditional silencing of the long ascending propriospinal neurons (LAPNs) that project from the lumbar to the cervical rhythmogenic centers (L1/L2 to C6), disrupts right-left alternation of both the forelimbs and hindlimbs without significantly disrupting other fundamental aspects of interlimb and speed-dependent coordination (Pocratsky et al., 2020). Subsequently, we showed that silencing the LAPNs after a moderate thoracic contusive spinal cord injury (SCI) resulted in better recovered locomotor function (Shepard et al., 2021). In this research advance, we focus on the descending equivalent to the LAPNs, the long descending propriospinal neurons (LDPNs) that have cell bodies at C6 and terminals at L2. We found that conditional silencing of the LDPNs in the intact adult rat resulted in a disrupted alternation of each limb pair (forelimbs and hindlimbs) and after a thoracic contusion SCI significantly improved locomotor function. These observations lead us to speculate that the LAPNs and LDPNs have similar roles in the exchange of temporal information between the cervical and lumbar rhythm generating centers, but that the partial disruption of the pathway after SCI limits the independent function of the lumbar circuitry. Silencing the LAPNs or LDPNs effectively permits or frees-up the lumbar circuitry to function independently.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Courtney T Shepard
- Interdisciplinary Program in Translational Neuroscience, School of Interdisciplinary and Graduate Studies, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
| | - Brandon L Brown
- Interdisciplinary Program in Translational Neuroscience, School of Interdisciplinary and Graduate Studies, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
| | - Morgan A Van Rijswijck
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
- Speed School of Engineering, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
| | - Rachel M Zalla
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
- Speed School of Engineering, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
| | - Darlene A Burke
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
| | - Johnny R Morehouse
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
| | - Amberly S Riegler
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
| | - Scott R Whittemore
- Interdisciplinary Program in Translational Neuroscience, School of Interdisciplinary and Graduate Studies, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
| | - David SK Magnuson
- Interdisciplinary Program in Translational Neuroscience, School of Interdisciplinary and Graduate Studies, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
- Speed School of Engineering, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of LouisvilleLouisvilleUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Bing Z, Rohregger A, Walter F, Huang Y, Lucas P, Morin FO, Huang K, Knoll A. Lateral flexion of a compliant spine improves motor performance in a bioinspired mouse robot. Sci Robot 2023; 8:eadg7165. [PMID: 38055804 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.adg7165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
A flexible spine is critical to the motion capability of most animals and plays a pivotal role in their agility. Although state-of-the-art legged robots have already achieved very dynamic and agile movement solely relying on their legs, they still exhibit the type of stiff movement that compromises movement efficiency. The integration of a flexible spine thus appears to be a promising approach to improve their agility, especially for small and underactuated quadruped robots that are underpowered because of size limitations. Here, we show that the lateral flexion of a compliant spine can promote both walking speed and maneuver agility for a neurorobotic mouse (NeRmo). We present NeRmo as a biomimetic robotic mouse that mimics the morphology of biological mice and their muscle-tendon actuation system. First, by leveraging the lateral flexion of the compliant spine, NeRmo can greatly increase its static stability in an initially unstable configuration by adjusting its posture. Second, the lateral flexion of the spine can also effectively extend the stride length of a gait and therefore improve the walking speeds of NeRmo. Finally, NeRmo shows agile maneuvers that require both a small turning radius and fast walking speed with the help of the spine. These results advance our understanding of spine-based quadruped locomotion skills and highlight promising design concepts to develop more agile legged robots.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenshan Bing
- Chair of Robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Real-Time Systems, School of Computation, Information and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstrasse 3, 85748 Munich, Germany
| | - Alex Rohregger
- Chair of Robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Real-Time Systems, School of Computation, Information and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstrasse 3, 85748 Munich, Germany
| | - Florian Walter
- Chair of Robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Real-Time Systems, School of Computation, Information and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstrasse 3, 85748 Munich, Germany
- Machine Intelligence Lab, Department Engineering, University of Technology Nuremberg, Ulmenstrasse 52i, 90443 Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Yuhong Huang
- Chair of Robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Real-Time Systems, School of Computation, Information and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstrasse 3, 85748 Munich, Germany
| | - Peer Lucas
- Chair of Robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Real-Time Systems, School of Computation, Information and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstrasse 3, 85748 Munich, Germany
| | - Fabrice O Morin
- Chair of Robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Real-Time Systems, School of Computation, Information and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstrasse 3, 85748 Munich, Germany
| | - Kai Huang
- School of Computer Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, 510330 Guangzhou, China
- Pazhou Lab, 510335 Guangzhou, China
| | - Alois Knoll
- Chair of Robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Real-Time Systems, School of Computation, Information and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstrasse 3, 85748 Munich, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Molkov YI, Yu G, Ausborn J, Bouvier J, Danner SM, Rybak IA. Sensory Feedback and Central Neuronal Interactions in Mouse Locomotion. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.31.564886. [PMID: 37961258 PMCID: PMC10634960 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.31.564886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Locomotion is a complex process involving specific interactions between the central neural controller and the mechanical components of the system. The basic rhythmic activity generated by locomotor circuits in the spinal cord defines rhythmic limb movements and their central coordination. The operation of these circuits is modulated by sensory feedback from the limbs providing information about the state of the limbs and the body. However, the specific role and contribution of central interactions and sensory feedback in the control of locomotor gait and posture remain poorly understood. We use biomechanical data on quadrupedal locomotion in mice and recent findings on the organization of neural interactions within the spinal locomotor circuitry to create and analyze a tractable mathematical model of mouse locomotion. The model includes a simplified mechanical model of the mouse body with four limbs and a central controller composed of four rhythm generators, each operating as a state machine controlling the state of one limb. Feedback signals characterize the load and extension of each limb as well as postural stability (balance). We systematically investigate and compare several model versions and compare their behavior to existing experimental data on mouse locomotion. Our results highlight the specific roles of sensory feedback and some central propriospinal interactions between circuits controlling fore and hind limbs for speed-dependent gait expression. Our models suggest that postural imbalance feedback may be critically involved in the control of swing-to-stance transitions in each limb and the stabilization of walking direction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaroslav I. Molkov
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Guoning Yu
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Jessica Ausborn
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
| | - Julien Bouvier
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay, 91400, Saclay, France
| | - Simon M. Danner
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
| | - Ilya A. Rybak
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Molina LA, Milla-Cruz JJ, Ghavasieh Z, Kim LH, Cheng N, Whelan PJ. High-throughput gait acquisition system for freely moving mice. J Neurophysiol 2023; 130:1081-1091. [PMID: 37728487 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00133.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Normal and pathological locomotion can be discriminated by analyzing an animal's gait on a linear walkway. This step is labor intensive and introduces experimental bias due to the handling involved while placing and removing the animal between trials. We designed a system consisting of a runway embedded within a larger arena, which can be traversed ad libitum by unsupervised, freely moving mice, triggering the recording of short clips of locomotor activity. Multiple body parts were tracked using DeepLabCut and fed to an analysis pipeline (GaitGrapher) to extract gait metrics. We compared the results from unsupervised against the standard experimenter-supervised approach and found that gait parameters analyzed via the new approach were similar to a previously validated approach (Visual Gait Lab). These data show the utility of incorporating an unsupervised, automated, approach for collecting kinematic data for gait analysis.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The acquisition and analysis of walkway data is a time-consuming task. Here, we provide an unmonitored approach for collecting gait metrics that reduces the handling and stress of mice and saves time. A detailed pipeline is outlined that provides for the collection and analysis of data using an integrated suite of tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo A Molina
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jonathan J Milla-Cruz
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Zahra Ghavasieh
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Linda H Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ning Cheng
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Patrick J Whelan
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Danner SM, Shepard CT, Hainline C, Shevtsova NA, Rybak IA, Magnuson DSK. Spinal control of locomotion before and after spinal cord injury. Exp Neurol 2023; 368:114496. [PMID: 37499972 PMCID: PMC10529867 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Thoracic spinal cord injury affects long propriospinal neurons that interconnect the cervical and lumbar enlargements. These neurons are crucial for coordinating forelimb and hindlimb locomotor movements in a speed-dependent manner. However, recovery from spinal cord injury is usually studied over a very limited range of speeds that may not fully expose circuitry dysfunction. To overcome this limitation, we investigated overground locomotion in rats trained to move over an extended distance with a wide range of speeds both pre-injury and after recovery from thoracic hemisection or contusion injuries. In this experimental context, intact rats expressed a speed-dependent continuum of alternating (walk and trot) and non-alternating (canter, gallop, half-bound gallop, and bound) gaits. After a lateral hemisection injury, rats recovered the ability to locomote over a wide range of speeds but lost the ability to use the highest-speed gaits (half-bound gallop and bound) and predominantly used the limb contralateral to the injury as lead during canter and gallop. A moderate contusion injury caused a greater reduction in maximal speed, loss of all non-alternating gaits, and emergence of novel alternating gaits. These changes resulted from weak fore-hind coupling together with appropriate control of left-right alternation. After hemisection, animals expressed a subset of intact gaits with appropriate interlimb coordination even on the side of the injury, where the long propriospinal connections were severed. These observations highlight how investigating locomotion over the full range of speeds can reveal otherwise hidden aspects of spinal locomotor control and post-injury recovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon M Danner
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Courtney T Shepard
- Interdisciplinary Program in Translational Neuroscience, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Health Sciences Campus, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Casey Hainline
- Speed School of Engineering, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Health Sciences Campus, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Natalia A Shevtsova
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ilya A Rybak
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - David S K Magnuson
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Health Sciences Campus, Louisville, KY, USA; Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Health Sciences Campus, Louisville, KY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Dougherty KJ. Distinguishing subtypes of spinal locomotor neurons to inform circuit function and dysfunction. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2023; 82:102763. [PMID: 37611531 PMCID: PMC10578609 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2023.102763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Locomotion is a complex motor task executed by spinal neurons. Given the diversity of spinal cord neurons, linking neuronal cell type to function is a challenge. Molecular identification of broad spinal interneuronal classes provided a great advance. Recent studies have used other classifiers, including location, electrophysiological properties, and connectivity, in addition to gene profiling, to narrow the acuity with which groups of neurons can be related to specific functions. However, there are also functional populations without a clear identifier, as exemplified by rhythm generating neurons. Other considerations, including experience or plasticity, add a layer of complexity to the definition of functional subpopulations of spinal neurons, but spinal cord injury may provide insight.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly J Dougherty
- Marion Murray Spinal Cord Research Center, Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Laflamme OD, Markin SN, Deska-Gauthier D, Banks R, Zhang Y, Danner SM, Akay T. Distinct roles of spinal commissural interneurons in transmission of contralateral sensory information. Curr Biol 2023; 33:3452-3464.e4. [PMID: 37531957 PMCID: PMC10528931 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Crossed reflexes are mediated by commissural pathways transmitting sensory information to the contralateral side of the body, but the underlying network is not fully understood. Commissural pathways coordinating the activities of spinal locomotor circuits during locomotion have been characterized in mice, but their relationship to crossed reflexes is unknown. We show the involvement of two genetically distinct groups of commissural interneurons (CINs) described in mice, V0 and V3 CINs, in the crossed reflex pathways. Our data suggest that the exclusively excitatory V3 CINs are directly involved in the excitatory crossed reflexes and show that they are essential for the inhibitory crossed reflexes. In contrast, the V0 CINs, a population that includes excitatory and inhibitory CINs, are not directly involved in excitatory or inhibitory crossed reflexes but downregulate the inhibitory crossed reflexes. Our data provide insights into the spinal circuitry underlying crossed reflexes in mice, describing the roles of V0 and V3 CINs in crossed reflexes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivier D Laflamme
- Atlantic Mobility Action Project, Brain Repair Centre, Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3T 0A6, Canada
| | - Sergey N Markin
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
| | - Dylan Deska-Gauthier
- Atlantic Mobility Action Project, Brain Repair Centre, Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3T 0A6, Canada
| | - Rachel Banks
- Atlantic Mobility Action Project, Brain Repair Centre, Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3T 0A6, Canada
| | - Ying Zhang
- Atlantic Mobility Action Project, Brain Repair Centre, Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3T 0A6, Canada
| | - Simon M Danner
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
| | - Turgay Akay
- Atlantic Mobility Action Project, Brain Repair Centre, Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3T 0A6, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Liu Y, Hasegawa E, Nose A, Zwart MF, Kohsaka H. Synchronous multi-segmental activity between metachronal waves controls locomotion speed in Drosophila larvae. eLife 2023; 12:e83328. [PMID: 37551094 PMCID: PMC10409504 DOI: 10.7554/elife.83328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability to adjust the speed of locomotion is essential for survival. In limbed animals, the frequency of locomotion is modulated primarily by changing the duration of the stance phase. The underlying neural mechanisms of this selective modulation remain an open question. Here, we report a neural circuit controlling a similarly selective adjustment of locomotion frequency in Drosophila larvae. Drosophila larvae crawl using peristaltic waves of muscle contractions. We find that larvae adjust the frequency of locomotion mostly by varying the time between consecutive contraction waves, reminiscent of limbed locomotion. A specific set of muscles, the lateral transverse (LT) muscles, co-contract in all segments during this phase, the duration of which sets the duration of the interwave phase. We identify two types of GABAergic interneurons in the LT neural network, premotor neuron A26f and its presynaptic partner A31c, which exhibit segmentally synchronized activity and control locomotor frequency by setting the amplitude and duration of LT muscle contractions. Altogether, our results reveal an inhibitory central circuit that sets the frequency of locomotion by controlling the duration of the period in between peristaltic waves. Further analysis of the descending inputs onto this circuit will help understand the higher control of this selective modulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingtao Liu
- Department of Physics, Graduate School of Science, The University of TokyoTokyoJapan
- Department of Complexity Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Frontier Science, The University of TokyoKashiwaJapan
| | - Eri Hasegawa
- Department of Complexity Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Frontier Science, The University of TokyoKashiwaJapan
| | - Akinao Nose
- Department of Physics, Graduate School of Science, The University of TokyoTokyoJapan
- Department of Complexity Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Frontier Science, The University of TokyoKashiwaJapan
| | - Maarten F Zwart
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, Centre of Biophotonics, University of St AndrewsSt AndrewsUnited Kingdom
| | - Hiroshi Kohsaka
- Department of Complexity Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Frontier Science, The University of TokyoKashiwaJapan
- Graduate School of Informatics and Engineering, The University of Electro-CommunicationsTokyoJapan
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Patel AA, Cardona A, Cox DN. Neural substrates of cold nociception in Drosophila larva. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.31.551339. [PMID: 37577520 PMCID: PMC10418107 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.31.551339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Metazoans detect and differentiate between innocuous (non-painful) and/or noxious (harmful) environmental cues using primary sensory neurons, which serve as the first node in a neural network that computes stimulus specific behaviors to either navigate away from injury-causing conditions or to perform protective behaviors that mitigate extensive injury. The ability of an animal to detect and respond to various sensory stimuli depends upon molecular diversity in the primary sensors and the underlying neural circuitry responsible for the relevant behavioral action selection. Recent studies in Drosophila larvae have revealed that somatosensory class III multidendritic (CIII md) neurons function as multimodal sensors regulating distinct behavioral responses to innocuous mechanical and nociceptive thermal stimuli. Recent advances in circuit bases of behavior have identified and functionally validated Drosophila larval somatosensory circuitry involved in innocuous (mechanical) and noxious (heat and mechanical) cues. However, central processing of cold nociceptive cues remained unexplored. We implicate multisensory integrators (Basins), premotor (Down-and-Back) and projection (A09e and TePns) neurons as neural substrates required for cold-evoked behavioral and calcium responses. Neural silencing of cell types downstream of CIII md neurons led to significant reductions in cold-evoked behaviors and neural co-activation of CIII md neurons plus additional cell types facilitated larval contraction (CT) responses. We further demonstrate that optogenetic activation of CIII md neurons evokes calcium increases in these neurons. Collectively, we demonstrate how Drosophila larvae process cold stimuli through functionally diverse somatosensory circuitry responsible for generating stimulus specific behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atit A. Patel
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Albert Cardona
- HHMI Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA, USA
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Daniel N. Cox
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Dubuc R, Cabelguen JM, Ryczko D. Locomotor pattern generation and descending control: a historical perspective. J Neurophysiol 2023; 130:401-416. [PMID: 37465884 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00204.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability to generate and control locomotor movements depends on complex interactions between many areas of the nervous system, the musculoskeletal system, and the environment. How the nervous system manages to accomplish this task has been the subject of investigation for more than a century. In vertebrates, locomotion is generated by neural networks located in the spinal cord referred to as central pattern generators. Descending inputs from the brain stem initiate, maintain, and stop locomotion as well as control speed and direction. Sensory inputs adapt locomotor programs to the environmental conditions. This review presents a comparative and historical overview of some of the neural mechanisms underlying the control of locomotion in vertebrates. We have put an emphasis on spinal mechanisms and descending control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Réjean Dubuc
- Groupe de Recherche en Activité Physique Adaptée, Département des Sciences de l'Activité Physique, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central, Département de Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean-Marie Cabelguen
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U 1215-Neurocentre Magendie, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux Cedex, France
| | - Dimitri Ryczko
- Département de Pharmacologie-Physiologie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Neurosciences Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Jimenez H, Carrion J, Adrien L, Wolin A, Eun J, Cinamon E, Chang EH, Davies P, Vo A, Koppel J. The Impact of Muscarinic Antagonism on Psychosis-Relevant Behaviors and Striatal [ 11C] Raclopride Binding in Tau Mouse Models of Alzheimer's Disease. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2091. [PMID: 37626588 PMCID: PMC10452133 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11082091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychosis that occurs over the course of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with increased caregiver burden and a more rapid cognitive and functional decline. To find new treatment targets, studies modeling psychotic conditions traditionally employ agents known to induce psychosis, utilizing outcomes with cross-species relevance, such as locomotive activity and sensorimotor gating, in rodents. In AD, increased burdens of tau pathology (a diagnostic hallmark of the disease) and treatment with anticholinergic medications have, separately, been reported to increase the risk of psychosis. Recent evidence suggests that muscarinic antagonists may increase extracellular tau. Preclinical studies in AD models have not previously utilized muscarinic cholinergic antagonists as psychotomimetic agents. In this report, we utilize a human-mutant-tau model (P301L/COMTKO) and an over-expressed non-mutant human tau model (htau) in order to compare the impact of antimuscarinic (scopolamine 10 mg/kg/day) treatment with dopaminergic (reboxetine 20 mg/kg/day) treatment, for 7 days, on locomotion and sensorimotor gating. Scopolamine increased spontaneous locomotion, while reboxetine reduced it; neither treatment impacted sensorimotor gating. In the P301L/COMTKO, scopolamine treatment was associated with decreased muscarinic M4 receptor expression, as quantified with RNA-seq, as well as increased dopamine receptor D2 signaling, as estimated with Micro-PET [11C] raclopride binding. Scopolamine also increased soluble tau in the striatum, an effect that partially mediated the observed increases in locomotion. Studies of muscarinic agonists in preclinical tau models are warranted to determine the impact of treatment-on both tau and behavior-that may have relevance to AD and other tauopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heidy Jimenez
- The Litwin-Zucker Research Center for the Study of Alzheimer’s Disease, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (H.J.); (J.C.); (L.A.); (A.W.); (J.E.); (E.H.C.); (P.D.); (A.V.)
| | - Joseph Carrion
- The Litwin-Zucker Research Center for the Study of Alzheimer’s Disease, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (H.J.); (J.C.); (L.A.); (A.W.); (J.E.); (E.H.C.); (P.D.); (A.V.)
| | - Leslie Adrien
- The Litwin-Zucker Research Center for the Study of Alzheimer’s Disease, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (H.J.); (J.C.); (L.A.); (A.W.); (J.E.); (E.H.C.); (P.D.); (A.V.)
| | - Adam Wolin
- The Litwin-Zucker Research Center for the Study of Alzheimer’s Disease, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (H.J.); (J.C.); (L.A.); (A.W.); (J.E.); (E.H.C.); (P.D.); (A.V.)
| | - John Eun
- The Litwin-Zucker Research Center for the Study of Alzheimer’s Disease, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (H.J.); (J.C.); (L.A.); (A.W.); (J.E.); (E.H.C.); (P.D.); (A.V.)
| | - Ezra Cinamon
- Department of Biochemistry, Queens College, Flushing, NY 11355, USA;
| | - Eric H. Chang
- The Litwin-Zucker Research Center for the Study of Alzheimer’s Disease, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (H.J.); (J.C.); (L.A.); (A.W.); (J.E.); (E.H.C.); (P.D.); (A.V.)
| | - Peter Davies
- The Litwin-Zucker Research Center for the Study of Alzheimer’s Disease, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (H.J.); (J.C.); (L.A.); (A.W.); (J.E.); (E.H.C.); (P.D.); (A.V.)
| | - An Vo
- The Litwin-Zucker Research Center for the Study of Alzheimer’s Disease, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (H.J.); (J.C.); (L.A.); (A.W.); (J.E.); (E.H.C.); (P.D.); (A.V.)
| | - Jeremy Koppel
- The Litwin-Zucker Research Center for the Study of Alzheimer’s Disease, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (H.J.); (J.C.); (L.A.); (A.W.); (J.E.); (E.H.C.); (P.D.); (A.V.)
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Mora S, Allodi I. Neural circuit and synaptic dysfunctions in ALS-FTD pathology. Front Neural Circuits 2023; 17:1208876. [PMID: 37469832 PMCID: PMC10352654 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2023.1208876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Action selection is a capital feature of cognition that guides behavior in processes that range from motor patterns to executive functions. Here, the ongoing actions need to be monitored and adjusted in response to sensory stimuli to increase the chances of reaching the goal. As higher hierarchical processes, these functions rely on complex neural circuits, and connective loops found within the brain and the spinal cord. Successful execution of motor behaviors depends, first, on proper selection of actions, and second, on implementation of motor commands. Thus, pathological conditions crucially affecting the integrity and preservation of these circuits and their connectivity will heavily impact goal-oriented motor behaviors. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) are two neurodegenerative disorders known to share disease etiology and pathophysiology. New evidence in the field of ALS-FTD has shown degeneration of specific neural circuits and alterations in synaptic connectivity, contributing to neuronal degeneration, which leads to the impairment of motor commands and executive functions. This evidence is based on studies performed on animal models of disease, post-mortem tissue, and patient derived stem cells. In the present work, we review the existing evidence supporting pathological loss of connectivity and selective impairment of neural circuits in ALS and FTD, two diseases which share strong genetic causes and impairment in motor and executive functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Mora
- Integrative Neuroscience Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Panum Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ilary Allodi
- Integrative Neuroscience Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Panum Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Neural Circuits of Disease Laboratory, School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Huber P, Ausk BJ, Tukei KL, Bain SD, Gross TS, Srinivasan S. A convolutional neural network to characterize mouse hindlimb foot strikes during voluntary wheel running. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1206008. [PMID: 37383524 PMCID: PMC10299834 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1206008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Voluntary wheel running (VWR) is widely used to study how exercise impacts a variety of physiologies and pathologies in rodents. The primary activity readout of VWR is aggregated wheel turns over a given time interval (most often, days). Given the typical running frequency of mice (∼4 Hz) and the intermittency of voluntary running, aggregate wheel turn counts, therefore, provide minimal insight into the heterogeneity of voluntary activity. To overcome this limitation, we developed a six-layer convolutional neural network (CNN) to determine the hindlimb foot strike frequency of mice exposed to VWR. Aged female C57BL/6 mice (22 months, n = 6) were first exposed to wireless angled running wheels for 2 h/d, 5 days/wk for 3 weeks with all VWR activities recorded at 30 frames/s. To validate the CNN, we manually classified foot strikes within 4800 1-s videos (800 randomly chosen for each mouse) and converted those values to frequency. Upon iterative optimization of model architecture and training on a subset of classified videos (4400), the CNN model achieved an overall training set accuracy of 94%. Once trained, the CNN was validated on the remaining 400 videos (accuracy: 81%). We then applied transfer learning to the CNN to predict the foot strike frequency of young adult female C57BL6 mice (4 months, n = 6) whose activity and gait differed from old mice during VWR (accuracy: 68%). In summary, we have developed a novel quantitative tool that non-invasively characterizes VWR activity at a much greater resolution than was previously accessible. This enhanced resolution holds potential to overcome a primary barrier to relating intermittent and heterogeneous VWR activity to induced physiological responses.
Collapse
|
33
|
Minassian K, Bayart A, Lackner P, Binder H, Freundl B, Hofstoetter US. Rare phenomena of central rhythm and pattern generation in a case of complete spinal cord injury. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3276. [PMID: 37280242 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39034-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Lumbar central pattern generators (CPGs) control the basic rhythm and coordinate muscle activation underlying hindlimb locomotion in quadrupedal mammals. The existence and function of CPGs in humans have remained controversial. Here, we investigated a case of a male individual with complete thoracic spinal cord injury who presented with a rare form of self-sustained rhythmic spinal myoclonus in the legs and rhythmic activities induced by epidural electrical stimulation (EES). Analysis of muscle activation patterns suggested that the myoclonus tapped into spinal circuits that generate muscle spasms, rather than reflecting locomotor CPG activity as previously thought. The EES-induced patterns were fundamentally different in that they included flexor-extensor and left-right alternations, hallmarks of locomotor CPGs, and showed spontaneous errors in rhythmicity. These motor deletions, with preserved cycle frequency and period when rhythmic activity resumed, were previously reported only in animal studies and suggest a separation between rhythm generation and pattern formation. Spinal myoclonus and the EES-induced activity demonstrate that the human lumbar spinal cord contains distinct mechanisms for generating rhythmic multi-muscle patterns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Minassian
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Aymeric Bayart
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Lackner
- Neurological Center, Clinic Penzing, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Neurology, Clinic Floridsdorf, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Ursula S Hofstoetter
- Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Joshi A, Denovellis EL, Mankili A, Meneksedag Y, Davidson TJ, Gillespie AK, Guidera JA, Roumis D, Frank LM. Dynamic synchronization between hippocampal representations and stepping. Nature 2023; 617:125-131. [PMID: 37046088 PMCID: PMC10156593 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-05928-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
The hippocampus is a mammalian brain structure that expresses spatial representations1 and is crucial for navigation2,3. Navigation, in turn, intricately depends on locomotion; however, current accounts suggest a dissociation between hippocampal spatial representations and the details of locomotor processes. Specifically, the hippocampus is thought to represent mainly higher-order cognitive and locomotor variables such as position, speed and direction of movement4-7, whereas the limb movements that propel the animal can be computed and represented primarily in subcortical circuits, including the spinal cord, brainstem and cerebellum8-11. Whether hippocampal representations are actually decoupled from the detailed structure of locomotor processes remains unknown. To address this question, here we simultaneously monitored hippocampal spatial representations and ongoing limb movements underlying locomotion at fast timescales. We found that the forelimb stepping cycle in freely behaving rats is rhythmic and peaks at around 8 Hz during movement, matching the approximately 8 Hz modulation of hippocampal activity and spatial representations during locomotion12. We also discovered precisely timed coordination between the time at which the forelimbs touch the ground ('plant' times of the stepping cycle) and the hippocampal representation of space. Notably, plant times coincide with hippocampal representations that are closest to the actual position of the nose of the rat, whereas between these plant times, the hippocampal representation progresses towards possible future locations. This synchronization was specifically detectable when rats approached spatial decisions. Together, our results reveal a profound and dynamic coordination on a timescale of tens of milliseconds between central cognitive representations and peripheral motor processes. This coordination engages and disengages rapidly in association with cognitive demands and is well suited to support rapid information exchange between cognitive and sensory-motor circuits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhilasha Joshi
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Departments of Physiology and Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Eric L Denovellis
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Departments of Physiology and Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Abhijith Mankili
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Departments of Physiology and Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Yagiz Meneksedag
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Thomas J Davidson
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Anna K Gillespie
- Departments of Physiology and Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer A Guidera
- Departments of Physiology and Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Demetris Roumis
- Departments of Physiology and Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Loren M Frank
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Departments of Physiology and Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Danner SM, Shepard CT, Hainline C, Shevtsova NA, Rybak IA, Magnuson DS. Spinal control of locomotion before and after spinal cord injury. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.22.533794. [PMID: 36993490 PMCID: PMC10055332 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.22.533794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Thoracic spinal cord injury affects long propriospinal neurons that interconnect the cervical and lumbar enlargements. These neurons are crucial for coordinating forelimb and hindlimb movements in a speed-dependent manner. At the same time, recovery from spinal cord injury is usually studied over a very limited range of speeds. To overcome this limitation, we investigated overground locomotion in rats over the full range of speeds pre-injury and after recovery from thoracic hemisection or contusion injuries. Intact rats expressed a speed-dependent continuum of alternating (walk and trot) and non-alternating (canter, gallop, half-bound gallop, and bound) gaits. After a lateral hemisection injury, rats recovered the ability to locomote over a wide range of speeds but lost the ability to move using the highest-speed gaits (half-bound gallop and bound) and predominantly used the limb contralateral to injury as lead during canter and gallop. A moderate contusion injury resulted in a greater reduction in maximal speed, loss of non-alternating gaits, and emergence of novel alternating gaits. Analysis of the gait structure in phase space and the variability of limb coupling suggests substantial reorganization of intraspinal pathways mediating interlimb coordination following recovery of locomotion after lateral hemisection or midline contusion injuries. This reorganization appears as an increased reliance on local enlargement circuitry and suggests that speed-dependent gait changes in the forelimbs rely on ascending information from the lumbar circuitry that is impaired post-injury. These observations highlight how investigating the full repertoire of locomotor speeds can reveal otherwise hidden aspects of spinal circuitry and post-injury reorganization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon M. Danner
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- For correspondence:
| | - Courtney T. Shepard
- Interdisciplinary Program in Translational Neuroscience, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Health Sciences Campus, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Casey Hainline
- Speed School of Engineering, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Health Sciences Campus, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Natalia A. Shevtsova
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ilya A. Rybak
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - David S.K. Magnuson
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Health Sciences Campus, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Health Sciences Campus, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Hayashi M, Gullo M, Senturk G, Di Costanzo S, Nagasaki SC, Kageyama R, Imayoshi I, Goulding M, Pfaff SL, Gatto G. A spinal synergy of excitatory and inhibitory neurons coordinates ipsilateral body movements. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.21.533603. [PMID: 36993220 PMCID: PMC10055247 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.21.533603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Innate and goal-directed movements require a high-degree of trunk and appendicular muscle coordination to preserve body stability while ensuring the correct execution of the motor action. The spinal neural circuits underlying motor execution and postural stability are finely modulated by propriospinal, sensory and descending feedback, yet how distinct spinal neuron populations cooperate to control body stability and limb coordination remains unclear. Here, we identified a spinal microcircuit composed of V2 lineage-derived excitatory (V2a) and inhibitory (V2b) neurons that together coordinate ipsilateral body movements during locomotion. Inactivation of the entire V2 neuron lineage does not impair intralimb coordination but destabilizes body balance and ipsilateral limb coupling, causing mice to adopt a compensatory festinating gait and be unable to execute skilled locomotor tasks. Taken together our data suggest that during locomotion the excitatory V2a and inhibitory V2b neurons act antagonistically to control intralimb coordination, and synergistically to coordinate forelimb and hindlimb movements. Thus, we suggest a new circuit architecture, by which neurons with distinct neurotransmitter identities employ a dual-mode of operation, exerting either synergistic or opposing functions to control different facets of the same motor behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marito Hayashi
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Miriam Gullo
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Gokhan Senturk
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Biological Sciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Stefania Di Costanzo
- Biological Sciences Graduate Program, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Shinji C. Nagasaki
- Research Center for Dynamic Living Systems, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
- Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Ryoichiro Kageyama
- Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
- RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako 351-0198, Japan
| | - Itaru Imayoshi
- Research Center for Dynamic Living Systems, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
- Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Martyn Goulding
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Samuel L. Pfaff
- Gene Expression Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Graziana Gatto
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Neurology Department, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, 50937, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Laflamme OD, Markin SN, Banks R, Zhang Y, Danner SM, Akay T. Distinct roles of spinal commissural interneurons in transmission of contralateral sensory information. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.16.528842. [PMID: 36824871 PMCID: PMC9949098 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.16.528842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
Crossed reflexes (CR) are mediated by commissural pathways transmitting sensory information to the contralateral side of the body, but the underlying network is not fully understood. Commissural pathways coordinating the activities of spinal locomotor circuits during locomotion have been characterized in mice, but their relationship to CR is unknown. We show the involvement of two genetically distinct groups of commissural interneurons (CINs) described in mice, V0 and V3 CINs, in the CR pathways. Our data suggest that the exclusively excitatory V3 CINs are directly involved in the excitatory CR, and show that they are essential for the inhibitory CR. In contrast, the V0 CINs, a population that includes excitatory and inhibitory CINs, are not directly involved in excitatory or inhibitory CRs but down-regulate the inhibitory CR. Our data provide insights into the spinal circuitry underlying CR in mice, describing the roles of V0 and V3 CINs in CR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivier D. Laflamme
- Atlantic Mobility Action Project, Brain Repair Centre, Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Sergey N. Markin
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Rachel Banks
- Atlantic Mobility Action Project, Brain Repair Centre, Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Ying Zhang
- Atlantic Mobility Action Project, Brain Repair Centre, Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Simon M. Danner
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Turgay Akay
- Atlantic Mobility Action Project, Brain Repair Centre, Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Gosgnach S. Spinal inhibitory interneurons: regulators of coordination during locomotor activity. Front Neural Circuits 2023; 17:1167836. [PMID: 37151357 PMCID: PMC10159059 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2023.1167836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the early 1900's it has been known that a neural network, situated entirely within the spinal cord, is capable of generating the movements required for coordinated locomotion in limbed vertebrates. Due the number of interneurons in the spinal cord, and the extent to which neurons with the same function are intermingled with others that have divergent functions, the components of this neural circuit (now referred to as the locomotor central pattern generator-CPG) have long proven to be difficult to identify. Over the past 20 years a molecular approach has been incorporated to study the locomotor CPG. This approach has resulted in new information regarding the identity of its component interneurons, and their specific role during locomotor activity. In this mini review the role of the inhibitory interneuronal populations that have been shown to be involved in locomotor activity are described, and their specific role in securing left-right, and flexor extensor alternation is outlined. Understanding how these interneuronal populations are activated, modulated, and interact with one another will help us understand how locomotor behavior is produced. In addition, a deeper understanding of the structure and mechanism of function of the locomotor CPG has the potential to assist those developing strategies aimed at enhancing recovery of motor function in spinal cord injured patients.
Collapse
|
39
|
McNamara CG, Rothwell M, Sharott A. Stable, interactive modulation of neuronal oscillations produced through brain-machine equilibrium. Cell Rep 2022; 41:111616. [PMID: 36351413 PMCID: PMC7614081 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Closed-loop interaction has the potential to regulate ongoing brain activity by continuously binding an external stimulation to specific dynamics of a neural circuit. Achieving interactive modulation requires a stable brain-machine feedback loop. Here, we demonstrate that it is possible to maintain oscillatory brain activity in a desired state by delivering stimulation accurately aligned with the timing of each cycle. We develop a fast algorithm that responds on a cycle-by-cycle basis to stimulate basal ganglia nuclei at predetermined phases of successive cortical beta cycles in parkinsonian rats. Using this approach, an equilibrium emerges between the modified brain signal and feedback-dependent stimulation pattern, leading to sustained amplification or suppression of the oscillation depending on the phase targeted. Beta amplification slows movement speed by biasing the animal's mode of locomotion. Together, these findings show that highly responsive, phase-dependent stimulation can achieve a stable brain-machine interaction that leads to robust modulation of ongoing behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colin G McNamara
- MRC Brain Network Dynamics Unit, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TH, UK.
| | - Max Rothwell
- MRC Brain Network Dynamics Unit, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TH, UK
| | - Andrew Sharott
- MRC Brain Network Dynamics Unit, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TH, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Amitani H, Chiba S, Amitani M, Michihara S, Takemoto R, Han L, Fujita N, Takahashi R, Inui A. Impact of Ninjin’yoeito on frailty and short life in klotho-hypomorphic (kl/kl) mice. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:973897. [DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.973897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
With the recent aging of society, the prevention of frailty has become an important issue because people desire both a long and healthy lifespan. Klotho-hypomorphic (kl/kl) mice are known to show phenotypes of premature aging. Ninjin’yoeito (NYT) is a traditional Japanese Kampo medicine used to treat patients with vulnerable constitution, fatigue or physical exhaustion caused by aging and illness. Recent studies have reported the potential efficacy of NYT against frailty. We therefore evaluated the effect of NYT on the gait function, activity, the histopathological status of organs and survival using kl/kl mice as a model of aging-related frailty. Two sets of 28-day-old male kl/kl mice were assigned to the vehicle (non-treated; NT), 3% or 5% NYT dietary groups. One set of groups (NT, n = 18; 3% NYT, n = 11; 5% NYT, n = 11) was subjected to the analysis of free walking, rotarod, and spontaneous activity tests at approximately 58 days old. Thereafter, we measured triceps surae muscles weight and myofiber cross-sectional area (CSA), and quantified its telomere content. In addition, we evaluated bone strength and performed histopathological examinations of organs. Survival was measured in the second set of groups (NT, 3% NYT and 5% NYT group, n = 8 each). In the walking test, several indicators such as gait velocity were improved in the NYT 3% group. Similar results were obtained for the latency to fall in the rotarod test and spontaneous motor activity. Triceps muscle mass, CSA and its telomere content were significantly improved in the NYT 3% group. Bone density, pulmonary alveolus destruction and testicular atrophy were also significantly improved in the NYT 3% group. Survival rate and body weight were both significantly improved in the NYT3% group compared with those in the NT group. Continuous administration of NYT from the early stage of aging improved not only gait performance, but also the survival in the aging-related frailty model. This effect may be associated with the improvements in aging-related organ changes such as muscle atrophy. Intervention with NYT against the progression of frailty may contribute to a longer, healthier life span among the elderly individuals.
Collapse
|
41
|
Weber RZ, Mulders G, Kaiser J, Tackenberg C, Rust R. Deep learning-based behavioral profiling of rodent stroke recovery. BMC Biol 2022; 20:232. [PMID: 36243716 PMCID: PMC9571460 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01434-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stroke research heavily relies on rodent behavior when assessing underlying disease mechanisms and treatment efficacy. Although functional motor recovery is considered the primary targeted outcome, tests in rodents are still poorly reproducible and often unsuitable for unraveling the complex behavior after injury. RESULTS Here, we provide a comprehensive 3D gait analysis of mice after focal cerebral ischemia based on the new deep learning-based software (DeepLabCut, DLC) that only requires basic behavioral equipment. We demonstrate a high precision 3D tracking of 10 body parts (including all relevant joints and reference landmarks) in several mouse strains. Building on this rigor motion tracking, a comprehensive post-analysis (with >100 parameters) unveils biologically relevant differences in locomotor profiles after a stroke over a time course of 3 weeks. We further refine the widely used ladder rung test using deep learning and compare its performance to human annotators. The generated DLC-assisted tests were then benchmarked to five widely used conventional behavioral set-ups (neurological scoring, rotarod, ladder rung walk, cylinder test, and single-pellet grasping) regarding sensitivity, accuracy, time use, and costs. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that deep learning-based motion tracking with comprehensive post-analysis provides accurate and sensitive data to describe the complex recovery of rodents following a stroke. The experimental set-up and analysis can also benefit a range of other neurological injuries that affect locomotion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Z Weber
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine (IREM), University of Zurich, Campus Schlieren, Wagistrasse 12, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Geertje Mulders
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Julia Kaiser
- Burke Neurological Institute, White Plains, NY, USA
| | - Christian Tackenberg
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine (IREM), University of Zurich, Campus Schlieren, Wagistrasse 12, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland.
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Ruslan Rust
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine (IREM), University of Zurich, Campus Schlieren, Wagistrasse 12, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland.
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Carlsen EMM, Nedergaard M, Rasmussen RN. Versatile treadmill system for measuring locomotion and neural activity in head-fixed mice. STAR Protoc 2022; 3:101701. [PMID: 36107745 PMCID: PMC9485523 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2022.101701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we present a protocol for using a versatile treadmill system to measure locomotion and neural activity at high temporal resolution in head-fixed mice. We first describe the assembly of the treadmill system. We then detail surgical implantation of the headplate on the mouse skull, followed by habituation of mice to locomotion on the treadmill system. The system is compact, movable, and simple to synchronize with other data streams, making it ideal for monitoring brain activity in diverse behavioral frameworks. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Rasmussen et al. (2019).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maiken Nedergaard
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark,Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester NY 14642, USA
| | - Rune Nguyen Rasmussen
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark,Corresponding author
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Dynamic simulation of non-programmed gait generation of quadruped robot. ARTIFICIAL LIFE AND ROBOTICS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10015-022-00765-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
44
|
Shevtsova NA, Li EZ, Singh S, Dougherty KJ, Rybak IA. Ipsilateral and Contralateral Interactions in Spinal Locomotor Circuits Mediated by V1 Neurons: Insights from Computational Modeling. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:5541. [PMID: 35628347 PMCID: PMC9146873 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
We describe and analyze a computational model of neural circuits in the mammalian spinal cord responsible for generating and shaping locomotor-like oscillations. The model represents interacting populations of spinal neurons, including the neurons that were genetically identified and characterized in a series of previous experimental studies. Here, we specifically focus on the ipsilaterally projecting V1 interneurons, their possible role in the spinal locomotor circuitry, and their involvement in the generation of locomotor oscillations. The proposed connections of these neurons and their involvement in different neuronal pathways in the spinal cord allow the model to reproduce the results of optogenetic manipulations of these neurons under different experimental conditions. We suggest the existence of two distinct populations of V1 interneurons mediating different ipsilateral and contralateral interactions within the spinal cord. The model proposes explanations for multiple experimental data concerning the effects of optogenetic silencing and activation of V1 interneurons on the frequency of locomotor oscillations in the intact cord and hemicord under different experimental conditions. Our simulations provide an important insight into the organization of locomotor circuitry in the mammalian spinal cord.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ilya A. Rybak
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA; (N.A.S.); (E.Z.L.); (S.S.); (K.J.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Zhang H, Shevtsova NA, Deska-Gauthier D, Mackay C, Dougherty KJ, Danner SM, Zhang Y, Rybak IA. The role of V3 neurons in speed-dependent interlimb coordination during locomotion in mice. eLife 2022; 11:e73424. [PMID: 35476640 PMCID: PMC9045817 DOI: 10.7554/elife.73424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Speed-dependent interlimb coordination allows animals to maintain stable locomotion under different circumstances. The V3 neurons are known to be involved in interlimb coordination. We previously modeled the locomotor spinal circuitry controlling interlimb coordination (Danner et al., 2017). This model included the local V3 neurons that mediate mutual excitation between left and right rhythm generators (RGs). Here, our focus was on V3 neurons involved in ascending long propriospinal interactions (aLPNs). Using retrograde tracing, we revealed a subpopulation of lumbar V3 aLPNs with contralateral cervical projections. V3OFF mice, in which all V3 neurons were silenced, had a significantly reduced maximal locomotor speed, were unable to move using stable trot, gallop, or bound, and predominantly used a lateral-sequence walk. To reproduce this data and understand the functional roles of V3 aLPNs, we extended our previous model by incorporating diagonal V3 aLPNs mediating inputs from each lumbar RG to the contralateral cervical RG. The extended model reproduces our experimental results and suggests that locally projecting V3 neurons, mediating left-right interactions within lumbar and cervical cords, promote left-right synchronization necessary for gallop and bound, whereas the V3 aLPNs promote synchronization between diagonal fore and hind RGs necessary for trot. The model proposes the organization of spinal circuits available for future experimental testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Han Zhang
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Brain Repair Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie UniversityHalifaxCanada
| | - Natalia A Shevtsova
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel UniversityPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Dylan Deska-Gauthier
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Brain Repair Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie UniversityHalifaxCanada
| | - Colin Mackay
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Brain Repair Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie UniversityHalifaxCanada
| | - Kimberly J Dougherty
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel UniversityPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Simon M Danner
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel UniversityPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Brain Repair Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie UniversityHalifaxCanada
| | - Ilya A Rybak
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel UniversityPhiladelphiaUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Parallel locomotor control strategies in mice and flies. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2022; 73:102516. [DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2022.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
|
47
|
Heterozygous Dcc Mutant Mice Have a Subtle Locomotor Phenotype. eNeuro 2022; 9:ENEURO.0216-18.2021. [PMID: 35115383 PMCID: PMC8906791 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0216-18.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Axon guidance receptors such as deleted in colorectal cancer (DCC) contribute to the normal formation of neural circuits, and their mutations can be associated with neural defects. In humans, heterozygous mutations in DCC have been linked to congenital mirror movements, which are involuntary movements on one side of the body that mirror voluntary movements of the opposite side. In mice, obvious hopping phenotypes have been reported for bi-allelic Dcc mutations, while heterozygous mutants have not been closely examined. We hypothesized that a detailed characterization of Dcc heterozygous mice may reveal impaired corticospinal and spinal functions. Anterograde tracing of the Dcc+/− motor cortex revealed a normally projecting corticospinal tract, intracortical microstimulation (ICMS) evoked normal contralateral motor responses, and behavioral tests showed normal skilled forelimb coordination. Gait analyses also showed a normal locomotor pattern and rhythm in adult Dcc+/− mice during treadmill locomotion, except for a decreased occurrence of out-of-phase walk and an increased duty cycle of the stance phase at slow walking speed. Neonatal isolated Dcc+/− spinal cords had normal left-right and flexor-extensor coupling, along with normal locomotor pattern and rhythm, except for an increase in the flexor-related motoneuronal output. Although Dcc+/− mice do not exhibit any obvious bilateral impairments like those in humans, they exhibit subtle motor deficits during neonatal and adult locomotion.
Collapse
|
48
|
Spaeth L, Bahuguna J, Gagneux T, Dorgans K, Sugihara I, Poulain B, Battaglia D, Isope P. Cerebellar connectivity maps embody individual adaptive behavior in mice. Nat Commun 2022; 13:580. [PMID: 35102165 PMCID: PMC8803868 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-27984-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The cerebellar cortex encodes sensorimotor adaptation during skilled locomotor behaviors, however the precise relationship between synaptic connectivity and behavior is unclear. We studied synaptic connectivity between granule cells (GCs) and Purkinje cells (PCs) in murine acute cerebellar slices using photostimulation of caged glutamate combined with patch-clamp in developing or after mice adapted to different locomotor contexts. By translating individual maps into graph network entities, we found that synaptic maps in juvenile animals undergo critical period characterized by dissolution of their structure followed by the re-establishment of a patchy functional organization in adults. Although, in adapted mice, subdivisions in anatomical microzones do not fully account for the observed spatial map organization in relation to behavior, we can discriminate locomotor contexts with high accuracy. We also demonstrate that the variability observed in connectivity maps directly accounts for motor behavior traits at the individual level. Our findings suggest that, beyond general motor contexts, GC-PC networks also encode internal models underlying individual-specific motor adaptation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ludovic Spaeth
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, 67084, Strasbourg, France
- Dominick P Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Jyotika Bahuguna
- Aix-Marseille Université, Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, CNRS, 13005, Marseille, France
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Theo Gagneux
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, 67084, Strasbourg, France
| | - Kevin Dorgans
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, 67084, Strasbourg, France
- Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Graduate University of Okinawa, Onna, Japan
| | - Izumi Sugihara
- Department of Systems Neurophysiology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 1-5-45 Yushima Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8519, Japan
| | - Bernard Poulain
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, 67084, Strasbourg, France
| | - Demian Battaglia
- Aix-Marseille Université, Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, CNRS, 13005, Marseille, France
- University of Strasbourg Institute for Advanced Studies (USIAS), 67084, Strasbourg, France
| | - Philippe Isope
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, 67084, Strasbourg, France.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Masini D, Kiehn O. Targeted activation of midbrain neurons restores locomotor function in mouse models of parkinsonism. Nat Commun 2022; 13:504. [PMID: 35082287 PMCID: PMC8791953 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28075-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN) is a locomotor command area containing glutamatergic neurons that control locomotor initiation and maintenance. These motor actions are deficient in Parkinson’s disease (PD), where dopaminergic neurodegeneration alters basal ganglia activity. Being downstream of the basal ganglia, the PPN may be a suitable target for ameliorating parkinsonian motor symptoms. Here, we use in vivo cell-type specific PPN activation to restore motor function in two mouse models of parkinsonism made by acute pharmacological blockage of dopamine transmission. With a combination of chemo- and opto-genetics, we show that excitation of caudal glutamatergic PPN neurons can normalize the otherwise severe locomotor deficit in PD, whereas targeting the local GABAergic population only leads to recovery of slow locomotion. The motor rescue driven by glutamatergic PPN activation is independent of activity in nearby locomotor promoting glutamatergic Cuneiform neurons. Our observations point to caudal glutamatergic PPN neurons as a potential target for neuromodulatory restoration of locomotor function in PD. Here, the authors use cell-type specific stimulation of brainstem neurons within the caudal pedunculopontine nucleus to show that activation of excitatory neurons can normalize severe locomotor deficit in mouse models of parkinsonism. The study defines a potential target for neuromodulatory restoration of locomotor function in Parkinson’s disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Débora Masini
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ole Kiehn
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Sheppard K, Gardin J, Sabnis GS, Peer A, Darrell M, Deats S, Geuther B, Lutz CM, Kumar V. Stride-level analysis of mouse open field behavior using deep-learning-based pose estimation. Cell Rep 2022; 38:110231. [PMID: 35021077 PMCID: PMC8796662 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.110231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gait and posture are often perturbed in many neurological, neuromuscular, and neuropsychiatric conditions. Rodents provide a tractable model for elucidating disease mechanisms and interventions. Here, we develop a neural-network-based assay that adopts the commonly used open field apparatus for mouse gait and posture analysis. We quantitate both with high precision across 62 strains of mice. We characterize four mutants with known gait deficits and demonstrate that multiple autism spectrum disorder (ASD) models show gait and posture deficits, implying this is a general feature of ASD. Mouse gait and posture measures are highly heritable and fall into three distinct classes. We conduct a genome-wide association study to define the genetic architecture of stride-level mouse movement in the open field. We provide a method for gait and posture extraction from the open field and one of the largest laboratory mouse gait and posture data resources for the research community. Sheppard et al. present a method for gait and posture analysis in the common open field apparatus using neural-network-based pose estimation. They apply this high-throughput method to dissect the genetic architecture of mouse movement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keith Sheppard
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
| | - Justin Gardin
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
| | - Gautam S Sabnis
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
| | - Asaf Peer
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
| | - Megan Darrell
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
| | - Sean Deats
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
| | - Brian Geuther
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
| | - Cathleen M Lutz
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
| | - Vivek Kumar
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA.
| |
Collapse
|