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Bando Y, Sakamoto M, Kim S, Ayzenshtat I, Yuste R. Comparative Evaluation of Genetically Encoded Voltage Indicators. Cell Rep 2020; 26:802-813.e4. [PMID: 30650368 PMCID: PMC7075032 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.12.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Imaging voltage using fluorescent-based sensors could be an ideal technique to probe neural circuits with high spatiotemporal resolution. However, due to insufficient signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), imaging membrane potential in mammalian preparations is still challenging. In recent years, many genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) have been developed. To compare them and guide decisions on which GEVI to use, we have characterized side by side the performance of eight GEVIs that represent different families of molecular constructs. We tested GEVIs in vitro with 1-photon imaging and in vivo with 1-photon wide-field imaging and 2-photon imaging. We find that QuasAr2 exhibited the best performance in vitro, whereas only ArcLight-MT could be used to reliably detect electrical activity in vivo with 2-photon excitation. No single GEVI was ideal for every experiment. These results provide a guide for choosing optimal GEVIs for specific applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Bando
- NeuroTechnology Center, Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA.
| | - Masayuki Sakamoto
- NeuroTechnology Center, Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA.
| | - Samuel Kim
- NeuroTechnology Center, Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Inbal Ayzenshtat
- NeuroTechnology Center, Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Rafael Yuste
- NeuroTechnology Center, Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
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52
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Fang J, Hsueh YY, Soto J, Sun W, Wang J, Gu Z, Khademhosseini A, Li S. Engineering Biomaterials with Micro/Nanotechnologies for Cell Reprogramming. ACS NANO 2020; 14:1296-1318. [PMID: 32011856 PMCID: PMC10067273 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.9b04837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Cell reprogramming is a revolutionized biotechnology that offers a powerful tool to engineer cell fate and function for regenerative medicine, disease modeling, drug discovery, and beyond. Leveraging advances in biomaterials and micro/nanotechnologies can enhance the reprogramming performance in vitro and in vivo through the development of delivery strategies and the control of biophysical and biochemical cues. In this review, we present an overview of the state-of-the-art technologies for cell reprogramming and highlight the recent breakthroughs in engineering biomaterials with micro/nanotechnologies to improve reprogramming efficiency and quality. Finally, we discuss future directions and challenges for reprogramming technologies and clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Fang
- Department of Bioengineering , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
- Department of Medicine , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
| | - Yuan-Yu Hsueh
- Department of Bioengineering , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine , National Cheng Kung University Hospital , Tainan 70456 , Taiwan
| | - Jennifer Soto
- Department of Bioengineering , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
- Department of Medicine , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
| | - Wujin Sun
- Department of Bioengineering , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
- Center for Minimally Invasive Therapeutics (C-MIT), California NanoSystems Institute , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angles , California 90095 , United States
| | - Jinqiang Wang
- Department of Bioengineering , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
- Center for Minimally Invasive Therapeutics (C-MIT), California NanoSystems Institute , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angles , California 90095 , United States
| | - Zhen Gu
- Department of Bioengineering , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
- Center for Minimally Invasive Therapeutics (C-MIT), California NanoSystems Institute , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angles , California 90095 , United States
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
| | - Ali Khademhosseini
- Department of Bioengineering , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
- Center for Minimally Invasive Therapeutics (C-MIT), California NanoSystems Institute , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angles , California 90095 , United States
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
- Department of Radiology , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
| | - Song Li
- Department of Bioengineering , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
- Department of Medicine , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California 90095 , United States
- Center for Minimally Invasive Therapeutics (C-MIT), California NanoSystems Institute , University of California, Los Angeles , Los Angles , California 90095 , United States
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Abstract
In utero electroporation is a rapid and powerful technique to study the development of many brain regions. This approach presents several advantages over other methods to study specific steps of brain development in vivo, from proliferation to synaptic integration. Here, we describe in detail the individual steps necessary to carry out the technique. We also highlight the variations that can be implemented to target different cerebral structures and to study specific steps of development.
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54
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Fischer J, Heide M, Huttner WB. Genetic Modification of Brain Organoids. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:558. [PMID: 31920558 PMCID: PMC6928125 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain organoids have become increasingly used systems allowing 3D-modeling of human brain development, evolution, and disease. To be able to make full use of these modeling systems, researchers have developed a growing toolkit of genetic modification techniques. These techniques can be applied to mature brain organoids or to the preceding embryoid bodies (EBs) and founding cells. This review will describe techniques used for transient and stable genetic modification of brain organoids and discuss their current use and respective advantages and disadvantages. Transient approaches include adeno-associated virus (AAV) and electroporation-based techniques, whereas stable genetic modification approaches make use of lentivirus (including viral stamping), transposon and CRISPR/Cas9 systems. Finally, an outlook as to likely future developments and applications regarding genetic modifications of brain organoids will be presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Fischer
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
| | - Michael Heide
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
| | - Wieland B Huttner
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
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55
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Qu X, Kumar A, Blockus H, Waites C, Bartolini F. Activity-Dependent Nucleation of Dynamic Microtubules at Presynaptic Boutons Controls Neurotransmission. Curr Biol 2019; 29:4231-4240.e5. [PMID: 31813605 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2019.10.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Control of microtubule (MT) nucleation and dynamics is critical for neuronal function. Whether MT nucleation is regulated at presynaptic boutons and influences overall presynaptic activity remains unknown. By visualizing MT plus-end dynamics at individual excitatory en passant boutons in axons of cultured hippocampal neurons and in hippocampal slices expressing EB3-EGFP and vGlut1-mCherry, we found that dynamic MTs preferentially grow from presynaptic boutons, show biased directionality in that they are almost always oriented toward the distal tip of the axon, and can be induced by neuronal activity. Silencing of γ-tubulin expression reduced presynaptic MT nucleation, and depletion of either HAUS1 or HAUS7-augmin subunits increased the percentage of retrograde comets initiated at boutons, indicating that γ-tubulin and augmin are required for activity-dependent de novo nucleation of uniformly distally oriented dynamic MTs. We analyzed the dynamics of a wide range of axonal organelles as well as synaptic vesicles (SVs) relative to vGlut1+ stable presynaptic boutons in a time window during which MT nucleation at boutons is promoted upon induction of neuronal activity, and we found that γ-tubulin-dependent presynaptic MT nucleation controls bidirectional (SV) interbouton transport and regulates evoked SV exocytosis. Hence, en passant boutons act as hotspots for activity-dependent de novo MT nucleation, which controls neurotransmission by providing dynamic tracks for bidirectional delivery of SVs between sites of neurotransmitter release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Qu
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168(th) Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Atul Kumar
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168(th) Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Heike Blockus
- Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University, 3227 Broadway, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Clarissa Waites
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168(th) Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Francesca Bartolini
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168(th) Street, New York, NY 10032, USA.
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56
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Vagni P, Perlini LE, Chenais NAL, Marchetti T, Parrini M, Contestabile A, Cancedda L, Ghezzi D. Gene Editing Preserves Visual Functions in a Mouse Model of Retinal Degeneration. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:945. [PMID: 31551698 PMCID: PMC6748340 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) are a large and heterogeneous group of degenerative diseases caused by mutations in various genes. Given the favorable anatomical and immunological characteristics of the eye, gene therapy holds great potential for their treatment. Our goal is to validate the preservation of visual functions by viral-free homology directed repair (HDR) in an autosomal recessive loss of function mutation. We used a tailored gene editing system based on clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) to prevent retinal photoreceptor death in the retinal degeneration 10 (Rd10) mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. We tested the gene editing tool in vitro and then used in vivo subretinal electroporation to deliver it to one of the retinas of mouse pups at different stages of photoreceptor differentiation. Three months after gene editing, the treated eye exhibited a higher visual acuity compared to the untreated eye. Moreover, we observed preservation of light-evoked responses both in explanted retinas and in the visual cortex of treated animals. Our study validates a CRISPR/Cas9-based therapy as a valuable new approach for the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa caused by autosomal recessive loss-of-function point mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Vagni
- Medtronic Chair in Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Laura E Perlini
- Laboratory of Local Micro-environment and Brain Development, Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Naïg A L Chenais
- Medtronic Chair in Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tommaso Marchetti
- Medtronic Chair in Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Martina Parrini
- Laboratory of Local Micro-environment and Brain Development, Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Contestabile
- Laboratory of Local Micro-environment and Brain Development, Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Laura Cancedda
- Laboratory of Local Micro-environment and Brain Development, Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy.,Dulbecco Telethon Institute, Roma, Italy
| | - Diego Ghezzi
- Laboratory of Local Micro-environment and Brain Development, Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
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57
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Szczurkowska J, Pischedda F, Pinto B, Managò F, Haas CA, Summa M, Bertorelli R, Papaleo F, Schäfer MK, Piccoli G, Cancedda L. NEGR1 and FGFR2 cooperatively regulate cortical development and core behaviours related to autism disorders in mice. Brain 2019; 141:2772-2794. [PMID: 30059965 PMCID: PMC6113639 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awy190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders are neurodevelopmental conditions with diverse aetiologies, all characterized by common core symptoms such as impaired social skills and communication, as well as repetitive behaviour. Cell adhesion molecules, receptor tyrosine kinases and associated downstream signalling have been strongly implicated in both neurodevelopment and autism spectrum disorders. We found that downregulation of the cell adhesion molecule NEGR1 or the receptor tyrosine kinase fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) similarly affects neuronal migration and spine density during mouse cortical development in vivo and results in impaired core behaviours related to autism spectrum disorders. Mechanistically, NEGR1 physically interacts with FGFR2 and modulates FGFR2-dependent extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and protein kinase B (AKT) signalling by decreasing FGFR2 degradation from the plasma membrane. Accordingly, FGFR2 overexpression rescues all defects due to Negr1 knockdown in vivo. Negr1 knockout mice present phenotypes similar to Negr1-downregulated animals. These data indicate that NEGR1 and FGFR2 cooperatively regulate cortical development and suggest a role for defective NEGR1-FGFR2 complex and convergent downstream ERK and AKT signalling in autism spectrum disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Szczurkowska
- Local Micro-environment and Brain Development Laboratory, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy.,Università degli Studi di Genova, Via Balbi, 5, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Pischedda
- Laboratory of Biology of Synapse. Center for Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Bruno Pinto
- Local Micro-environment and Brain Development Laboratory, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy.,Bio@SNS, Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Managò
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy
| | - Carola A Haas
- Experimental Epilepsy Research, Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Maria Summa
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy
| | - Rosalia Bertorelli
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesco Papaleo
- Genetics of Cognition Laboratory, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy
| | - Michael K Schäfer
- Department of Anesthesiology and Focus Program Translational Neurosciences, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Germany
| | - Giovanni Piccoli
- Laboratory of Biology of Synapse. Center for Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy.,Dulbecco Telethon Institute, Varese Street 16b - 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Cancedda
- Local Micro-environment and Brain Development Laboratory, Italian Institute of Technology, Genoa, Italy.,Dulbecco Telethon Institute, Varese Street 16b - 00185 Rome, Italy
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58
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The development of synaptic transmission is time-locked to early social behaviors in rats. Nat Commun 2019; 10:1195. [PMID: 30867422 PMCID: PMC6416358 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-09156-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of functional synapses is a sequential process preserved across many brain areas. Here, we show that glutamatergic postsynaptic currents anticipated GABAergic currents in Layer II/III of the rat neocortex, in contrast to the pattern described for other brain areas. The frequencies of both glutamatergic and GABAergic currents increased abruptly at the beginning of the second postnatal week, supported by a serotonin upsurge. Integrative behaviors arose on postnatal day (P)9, while most motor and sensory behaviors, which are fundamental for pup survival, were already in place at approximately P7. A reduction in serotonin reuptake accelerated the development of functional synapses and integrative huddling behavior, while sparing motor and sensory function development. A decrease in synaptic transmission in Layer II/III induced by a chemogenetic approach only inhibited huddling. Thus, precise developmental sequences mediate early, socially directed behaviors for which neurotransmission and its modulation in supragranular cortical layers play key roles. The development of functional synapses is a key milestone in neurodevelopment. Here, the authors show how serotonin signalling coordinates development of glutamatergic and GABAergic currents and triggers the emergence of integrative behavior (huddling) in rat pups.
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59
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Sahu S, Buhler E, Vermoyal JC, Watrin F, Represa A, Manent JB. Spontaneous epileptiform activity in a rat model of bilateral subcortical band heterotopia. Epilepsia 2018; 60:337-348. [PMID: 30597542 PMCID: PMC7027481 DOI: 10.1111/epi.14633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Malformations of cortical development are common causes of intellectual disability and epilepsy, yet there is a crucial lack of relevant preclinical models associating seizures and cortical malformations. Here, we describe a novel rat model with bilateral subcortical band heterotopia (SBH) and examine whether this model develops spontaneous epileptic seizures. METHODS To generate bilateral SBH in rats, we combined RNAi-mediated knockdown of Dcx and in utero electroporation with a tripolar electrode configuration enabling simultaneous transfection of the two brain hemispheres. To determine whether bilateral SBH leads to epileptiform activity, rats of various ages were implanted for telemetric electrocorticographic recordings and histopathological examination was carried out at the end of the recording sessions. RESULTS By 2 months, rats with bilateral SBH showed nonconvulsive spontaneous seizures consisting of spike-and-wave discharges (SWDs) with dominant frequencies in the alpha and theta bands and secondarily in higher-frequency bands. SWDs occurred during both the dark and the light period, but were more frequent during quiet awake state than during sleep. Also, SWDs were more frequent and lasted longer at older ages. No sex differences were found. Although frequencies and durations of SWDs were found to be uncorrelated with the size of SBH, SWDs were initiated in some occasions from brain hemispheres comprising a larger SBH. Lastly, SWDs exhibited absence-like pharmacological properties, being temporarily alleviated by ethosuximide administration. SIGNIFICANCE This novel model of bilateral SBH with spontaneous epilepsy may potentially provide valuable new insights into causality between cortical malformations and seizures, and help translational research aiming at designing novel treatment strategies for epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surajit Sahu
- Neurobiology Institute of the Mediterranean (INMED), Aix-Marseille University, French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) UMR1249, Marseille, France
| | - Emmanuelle Buhler
- Neurobiology Institute of the Mediterranean (INMED), Aix-Marseille University, French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) UMR1249, Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Vermoyal
- Neurobiology Institute of the Mediterranean (INMED), Aix-Marseille University, French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) UMR1249, Marseille, France
| | - Françoise Watrin
- Neurobiology Institute of the Mediterranean (INMED), Aix-Marseille University, French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) UMR1249, Marseille, France
| | - Alfonso Represa
- Neurobiology Institute of the Mediterranean (INMED), Aix-Marseille University, French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) UMR1249, Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Bernard Manent
- Neurobiology Institute of the Mediterranean (INMED), Aix-Marseille University, French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) UMR1249, Marseille, France
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60
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Awad PN, Amegandjin CA, Szczurkowska J, Carriço JN, Fernandes do Nascimento AS, Baho E, Chattopadhyaya B, Cancedda L, Carmant L, Di Cristo G. KCC2 Regulates Dendritic Spine Formation in a Brain-Region Specific and BDNF Dependent Manner. Cereb Cortex 2018; 28:4049-4062. [PMID: 30169756 PMCID: PMC6188549 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhy198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
KCC2 is the major chloride extruder in neurons. The spatiotemporal regulation of KCC2 expression orchestrates the developmental shift towards inhibitory GABAergic drive and the formation of glutamatergic synapses. Whether KCC2's role in synapse formation is similar in different brain regions is unknown. First, we found that KCC2 subcellular localization, but not overall KCC2 expression levels, differed between cortex and hippocampus during the first postnatal week. We performed site-specific in utero electroporation of KCC2 cDNA to target either hippocampal CA1 or somatosensory cortical pyramidal neurons. We found that a premature expression of KCC2 significantly decreased spine density in CA1 neurons, while it had the opposite effect in cortical neurons. These effects were cell autonomous, because single-cell biolistic overexpression of KCC2 in hippocampal and cortical organotypic cultures also induced a reduction and an increase of dendritic spine density, respectively. In addition, we found that the effects of its premature expression on spine density were dependent on BDNF levels. Finally, we showed that the effects of KCC2 on dendritic spine were dependent on its chloride transporter function in the hippocampus, contrary to what was observed in cortex. Altogether, these results demonstrate that KCC2 regulation of dendritic spine development, and its underlying mechanisms, are brain-region specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Nora Awad
- Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Clara Akofa Amegandjin
- Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Joanna Szczurkowska
- Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Instituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | | | | | - Elie Baho
- Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Bidisha Chattopadhyaya
- Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Laura Cancedda
- Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Instituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
- Telethon Dulbecco Institute, Italy
| | - Lionel Carmant
- Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Graziella Di Cristo
- Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Cwetsch AW, Pinto B, Savardi A, Cancedda L. In vivo methods for acute modulation of gene expression in the central nervous system. Prog Neurobiol 2018; 168:69-85. [PMID: 29694844 PMCID: PMC6080705 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2018.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Accurate and timely expression of specific genes guarantees the healthy development and function of the brain. Indeed, variations in the correct amount or timing of gene expression lead to improper development and/or pathological conditions. Almost forty years after the first successful gene transfection in in vitro cell cultures, it is currently possible to regulate gene expression in an area-specific manner at any step of central nervous system development and in adulthood in experimental animals in vivo, even overcoming the very poor accessibility of the brain. Here, we will review the diverse approaches for acute gene transfer in vivo, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages with respect to the efficiency and specificity of transfection as well as to brain accessibility. In particular, we will present well-established chemical, physical and virus-based approaches suitable for different animal models, pointing out their current and future possible applications in basic and translational research as well as in gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej W Cwetsch
- Local Micro-environment and Brain Development Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163 Genova, Italy; Università degli Studi di Genova, Via Balbi, 5, 16126 Genova, Italy
| | - Bruno Pinto
- Local Micro-environment and Brain Development Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163 Genova, Italy; Bio@SNS, Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza dei Cavalieri 7, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Annalisa Savardi
- Local Micro-environment and Brain Development Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163 Genova, Italy; Università degli Studi di Genova, Via Balbi, 5, 16126 Genova, Italy
| | - Laura Cancedda
- Local Micro-environment and Brain Development Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163 Genova, Italy; DulbeccoTelethon Institute, Italy.
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Chansel-Debordeaux L, Bourdenx M, Dovero S, Grouthier V, Dutheil N, Espana A, Groc L, Jimenez C, Bezard E, Dehay B. In utero delivery of rAAV2/9 induces neuronal expression of the transgene in the brain: towards new models of Parkinson’s disease. Gene Ther 2017; 24:801-809. [DOI: 10.1038/gt.2017.84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Revised: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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63
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Kctd13 deletion reduces synaptic transmission via increased RhoA. Nature 2017; 551:227-231. [PMID: 29088697 DOI: 10.1038/nature24470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Copy-number variants of chromosome 16 region 16p11.2 are linked to neuropsychiatric disorders and are among the most prevalent in autism spectrum disorders. Of many 16p11.2 genes, Kctd13 has been implicated as a major driver of neurodevelopmental phenotypes. The function of KCTD13 in the mammalian brain, however, remains unknown. Here we delete the Kctd13 gene in mice and demonstrate reduced synaptic transmission. Reduced synaptic transmission correlates with increased levels of Ras homolog gene family, member A (RhoA), a KCTD13/CUL3 ubiquitin ligase substrate, and is reversed by RhoA inhibition, suggesting increased RhoA as an important mechanism. In contrast to a previous knockdown study, deletion of Kctd13 or kctd13 does not increase brain size or neurogenesis in mice or zebrafish, respectively. These findings implicate Kctd13 in the regulation of neuronal function relevant to neuropsychiatric disorders and clarify the role of Kctd13 in neurogenesis and brain size. Our data also reveal a potential role for RhoA as a therapeutic target in disorders associated with KCTD13 deletion.
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Simultaneous two-photon imaging of intracellular chloride concentration and pH in mouse pyramidal neurons in vivo. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:E8770-E8779. [PMID: 28973889 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1702861114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracellular chloride ([Cl-]i) and pH (pHi) are fundamental regulators of neuronal excitability. They exert wide-ranging effects on synaptic signaling and plasticity and on development and disorders of the brain. The ideal technique to elucidate the underlying ionic mechanisms is quantitative and combined two-photon imaging of [Cl-]i and pHi, but this has never been performed at the cellular level in vivo. Here, by using a genetically encoded fluorescent sensor that includes a spectroscopic reference (an element insensitive to Cl- and pH), we show that ratiometric imaging is strongly affected by the optical properties of the brain. We have designed a method that fully corrects for this source of error. Parallel measurements of [Cl-]i and pHi at the single-cell level in the mouse cortex showed the in vivo presence of the widely discussed developmental fall in [Cl-]i and the role of the K-Cl cotransporter KCC2 in this process. Then, we introduce a dynamic two-photon excitation protocol to simultaneously determine the changes of pHi and [Cl-]i in response to hypercapnia and seizure activity.
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65
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Bitzenhofer SH, Ahlbeck J, Hanganu-Opatz IL. Methodological Approach for Optogenetic Manipulation of Neonatal Neuronal Networks. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:239. [PMID: 28848399 PMCID: PMC5554786 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Coordinated patterns of electrical activity are critical for the functional maturation of neuronal networks, yet their interrogation has proven difficult in the developing brain. Optogenetic manipulations strongly contributed to the mechanistic understanding of network activation in the adult brain, but difficulties to specifically and reliably express opsins at neonatal age hampered similar interrogation of developing circuits. Here, we introduce a protocol that enables to control the activity of specific neuronal populations by light, starting from early postnatal development. We show that brain area-, layer- and cell type-specific expression of opsins by in utero electroporation (IUE), as exemplified for the medial prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus (HP), permits the manipulation of neuronal activity in vitro and in vivo. Both individual and population responses to different patterns of light stimulation are monitored by extracellular multi-site recordings in the medial PFC of neonatal mice. The expression of opsins via IUE provides a flexible approach to disentangle the cellular mechanism underlying early rhythmic network activity, and to elucidate the role of early neuronal activity for brain maturation, as well as its contribution to neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian H Bitzenhofer
- Developmental Neurophysiology, Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-EppendorfHamburg, Germany
| | - Joachim Ahlbeck
- Developmental Neurophysiology, Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-EppendorfHamburg, Germany
| | - Ileana L Hanganu-Opatz
- Developmental Neurophysiology, Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-EppendorfHamburg, Germany
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66
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The X-Linked Intellectual Disability Protein IL1RAPL1 Regulates Dendrite Complexity. J Neurosci 2017; 37:6606-6627. [PMID: 28576939 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3775-16.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Revised: 03/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations and deletions of the interleukin-1 receptor accessory protein like 1 (IL1RAPL1) gene, located on the X chromosome, are associated with intellectual disability (ID) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). IL1RAPL1 protein is located at the postsynaptic compartment of excitatory synapses and plays a role in synapse formation and stabilization. Here, using primary neuronal cultures and Il1rapl1-KO mice, we characterized the role of IL1RAPL1 in regulating dendrite morphology. In Il1rapl1-KO mice we identified an increased number of dendrite branching points in CA1 and CA2 hippocampal neurons associated to hippocampal cognitive impairment. Similarly, induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons from a patient carrying a null mutation of the IL1RAPL1 gene had more dendrites. In hippocampal neurons, the overexpression of full-length IL1RAPL1 and mutants lacking part of C-terminal domains leads to simplified neuronal arborization. This effect is abolished when we overexpressed mutants lacking part of N-terminal domains, indicating that the IL1RAPL1 extracellular domain is required for regulating dendrite development. We also demonstrate that PTPδ interaction is not required for this activity, while IL1RAPL1 mediates the activity of IL-1β on dendrite morphology. Our data reveal a novel specific function for IL1RAPL1 in regulating dendrite morphology that can help clarify how changes in IL1RAPL1-regulated pathways can lead to cognitive disorders in humans.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Abnormalities in the architecture of dendrites have been observed in a variety of neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, and neuropsychiatric disorders. Here we show that the X-linked intellectual disability protein interleukin-1 receptor accessory protein like 1 (IL1RAPL1) regulates dendrite morphology of mice hippocampal neurons and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons from a patient carrying a null mutation of IL1RAPL1 gene. We also found that the extracellular domain of IL1RAPL1 is required for this effect, independently of the interaction with PTPδ, but IL1RAPL1 mediates the activity of IL-1β on dendrite morphology. Our data reveal a novel specific function for IL1RAPL1 in regulating dendrite morphology that can help clarify how changes in IL1RAPL1-regulated pathways can lead to cognitive disorders in humans.
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67
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Azzarelli R, Oleari R, Lettieri A, Andre' V, Cariboni A. In Vitro, Ex Vivo and In Vivo Techniques to Study Neuronal Migration in the Developing Cerebral Cortex. Brain Sci 2017; 7:brainsci7050048. [PMID: 28448448 PMCID: PMC5447930 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci7050048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Revised: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal migration is a fundamental biological process that underlies proper brain development and neuronal circuit formation. In the developing cerebral cortex, distinct neuronal populations, producing excitatory, inhibitory and modulatory neurotransmitters, are generated in different germinative areas and migrate along various routes to reach their final positions within the cortex. Different technical approaches and experimental models have been adopted to study the mechanisms regulating neuronal migration in the cortex. In this review, we will discuss the most common in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo techniques to visualize and study cortical neuronal migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Azzarelli
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Hutchison-MRC Research Centre, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0XZ, UK.
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QR, UK.
- Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0HE, UK.
| | - Roberto Oleari
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti, 9, Milan 20133, Italy.
| | - Antonella Lettieri
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti, 9, Milan 20133, Italy.
| | - Valentina Andre'
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti, 9, Milan 20133, Italy.
| | - Anna Cariboni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti, 9, Milan 20133, Italy.
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK.
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68
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A reliable and flexible gene manipulation strategy in posthatch zebra finch brain. Sci Rep 2017; 7:43244. [PMID: 28233828 PMCID: PMC5324116 DOI: 10.1038/srep43244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Songbird models meaningfully contribute to many fields including learned vocal communication, the neurobiology of social interactions, brain development, and ecology. The value of investigating gene-brain-behavior relationships in songbirds is therefore high. Viral infections typically used in other lab animals to deliver gene editing constructs have been less effective in songbirds, likely due to immune system properties. We therefore leveraged the in vivo electroporation strategy used in utero in rodents and in ovo in poultry, and apply it to posthatch zebra finch songbird chicks. We present a series of experiments with a combination of promoters, fluorescent protein genes, and piggyBac transposase vectors to demonstrate that this can be a reliable, efficient, and flexible strategy for genome manipulation. We discuss options for gene delivery experiments to test circuit and behavioral hypotheses using a variety of manipulations, including gene overexpression, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, inducible technologies, optogenetic or DREADD cellular control, and cell type-specific expression.
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69
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Venø MT, Venø ST, Rehberg K, van Asperen JV, Clausen BH, Holm IE, Pasterkamp RJ, Finsen B, Kjems J. Cortical Morphogenesis during Embryonic Development Is Regulated by miR-34c and miR-204. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:31. [PMID: 28232790 PMCID: PMC5299138 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The porcine brain closely resembles the human brain in aspects such as development and morphology. Temporal miRNA profiling in the developing embryonic porcine cortex revealed a distinct set of miRNAs, including miR-34c and miR-204, which exhibited a highly specific expression profile across the time of cortical folding. These miRNAs were found to target Doublecortin (DCX), known to be involved in neuron migration during cortical folding of gyrencephalic brains. In vivo modulation of miRNA expression in mouse embryos confirmed that miR-34c and miR-204 can control neuronal migration and cortical morphogenesis, presumably by posttranscriptional regulation of DCX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morten T Venø
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, Aarhus University Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Susanne T Venø
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, Aarhus University Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kati Rehberg
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Jessy V van Asperen
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Bettina H Clausen
- Neurobiology Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark Odense, Denmark
| | - Ida E Holm
- Laboratory for Experimental Neuropathology, Department of Pathology, Randers Hospital Randers, Denmark
| | - R Jeroen Pasterkamp
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Bente Finsen
- Neurobiology Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark Odense, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Kjems
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, Aarhus University Aarhus, Denmark
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70
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Usui N, Co M, Harper M, Rieger MA, Dougherty JD, Konopka G. Sumoylation of FOXP2 Regulates Motor Function and Vocal Communication Through Purkinje Cell Development. Biol Psychiatry 2017; 81:220-230. [PMID: 27009683 PMCID: PMC4983264 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2016.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2015] [Revised: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mutations in the gene encoding the transcription factor forkhead box P2 (FOXP2) result in brain developmental abnormalities, including reduced gray matter in both human patients and rodent models and speech and language deficits. However, neither the region-specific function of FOXP2 in the brain, in particular the cerebellum, nor the effects of any posttranslational modifications of FOXP2 in the brain and disorders have been explored. METHODS We characterized sumoylation of FOXP2 biochemically and analyzed the region-specific function and sumoylation of FOXP2 in the developing mouse cerebellum. Using in utero electroporation to manipulate the sumoylation state of FOXP2 as well as Foxp2 expression levels in Purkinje cells of the cerebellum in vivo, we reduced Foxp2 expression approximately 40% in the mouse cerebellum. Such a reduction approximates the haploinsufficiency observed in human patients who demonstrate speech and language impairments. RESULTS We identified sumoylation of FOXP2 at K674 (K673 in mice) in the cerebellum of neonates. In vitro co-immunoprecipitation and in vivo colocalization experiments suggest that PIAS3 acts as the small ubiquitin-like modifier E3 ligase for FOXP2 sumoylation. This sumoylation modifies transcriptional regulation by FOXP2. We demonstrated that FOXP2 sumoylation is required for regulation of cerebellar motor function and vocal communication, likely through dendritic outgrowth and arborization of Purkinje cells in the mouse cerebellum. CONCLUSIONS Sumoylation of FOXP2 in neonatal mouse cerebellum regulates Purkinje cell development and motor functions and vocal communication, demonstrating evidence for sumoylation in regulating mammalian behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriyoshi Usui
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-911, USA
| | - Marissa Co
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-911, USA
| | - Matthew Harper
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-911, USA
| | - Michael A. Rieger
- Department of Genetics and Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Joseph D. Dougherty
- Department of Genetics and Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Genevieve Konopka
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.
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71
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Abstract
Here, we present a review of recent advances in electroporation for the delivery of nanomedicine as intracellular carriers by electroporation (NICE) in a drug format with functional nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kisoo Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering
- Kyung Hee University
- Yongin 17104
- Republic of Korea
| | - Won Gu Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering
- Kyung Hee University
- Yongin 17104
- Republic of Korea
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72
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Chang L, Gallego-Perez D, Chiang CL, Bertani P, Kuang T, Sheng Y, Chen F, Chen Z, Shi J, Huang X, Malkoc V, Lu W, Lee LJ. Controllable Large-Scale Transfection of Primary Mammalian Cardiomyocytes on a Nanochannel Array Platform. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2016; 12:5971-5980. [PMID: 27648733 PMCID: PMC5153662 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201601465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Revised: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
While electroporation has been widely used as a physical method for gene transfection in vitro and in vivo, its application in gene therapy of cardiovascular cells remains challenging. Due to the high concentration of ion-transport proteins in the sarcolemma, conventional electroporation of primary cardiomyocytes tends to cause ion-channel activation and abnormal ion flux, resulting in low transfection efficiency and high mortality. In this work, a high-throughput nanoelectroporation technique based on a nanochannel array platform is reported, which enables massively parallel delivery of genetic cargo (microRNA, plasmids) into mouse primary cardiomyocytes in a controllable, highly efficient, and benign manner. A simple "dipping-trap" approach was implemented to precisely position a large number of cells on the nanoelectroporation platform. With dosage control, our device precisely titrates the level of miR-29, a potential therapeutic agent for cardiac fibrosis, and determines the minimum concentration of miR-29 causing side effects in mouse primary cardiomyocytes. Moreover, the dose-dependent effect of miR-29 on mitochondrial potential and homeostasis is monitored. Altogether, our nanochannel array platform provides efficient trapping and transfection of primary mouse cardiomyocyte, which can improve the quality control for future microRNA therapy in heart diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingqian Chang
- NSEC Center for Affordable Nanoengineering of Polymeric Biomedical Devices, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43209, USA
| | - Daniel Gallego-Perez
- NSEC Center for Affordable Nanoengineering of Polymeric Biomedical Devices, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43209, USA
- Department of Surgery; Center for Regenerative Medicine and Cell-based Therapies, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43209, USA
| | - Chi-Ling Chiang
- NSEC Center for Affordable Nanoengineering of Polymeric Biomedical Devices, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43209, USA
| | - Paul Bertani
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43209, USA
| | - Tairong Kuang
- NSEC Center for Affordable Nanoengineering of Polymeric Biomedical Devices, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Yan Sheng
- NSEC Center for Affordable Nanoengineering of Polymeric Biomedical Devices, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Feng Chen
- NSEC Center for Affordable Nanoengineering of Polymeric Biomedical Devices, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Zhou Chen
- NSEC Center for Affordable Nanoengineering of Polymeric Biomedical Devices, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Junfeng Shi
- NSEC Center for Affordable Nanoengineering of Polymeric Biomedical Devices, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Xiaomeng Huang
- NSEC Center for Affordable Nanoengineering of Polymeric Biomedical Devices, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43209, USA
| | - Veysi Malkoc
- NSEC Center for Affordable Nanoengineering of Polymeric Biomedical Devices, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Wu Lu
- NSEC Center for Affordable Nanoengineering of Polymeric Biomedical Devices, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43209, USA
| | - Ly James Lee
- NSEC Center for Affordable Nanoengineering of Polymeric Biomedical Devices, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43209, USA
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering Department, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43209, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
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73
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Luo W, Mizuno H, Iwata R, Nakazawa S, Yasuda K, Itohara S, Iwasato T. Supernova: A Versatile Vector System for Single-Cell Labeling and Gene Function Studies in vivo. Sci Rep 2016; 6:35747. [PMID: 27775045 PMCID: PMC5075795 DOI: 10.1038/srep35747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Here we describe “Supernova” series of vector systems that enable single-cell labeling and labeled cell-specific gene manipulation, when introduced by in utero electroporation (IUE) or adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene delivery. In Supernova, sparse labeling relies on low TRE leakage. In a small population of cells with over-threshold leakage, initial tTA-independent weak expression is enhanced by tTA/TRE-positive feedback along with a site-specific recombination system (e.g., Cre/loxP, Flpe/FRT). Sparse and bright labeling by Supernova with little background enables the visualization of the morphological details of individual neurons in densely packed brain areas such as the cortex and hippocampus, both during development and in adulthood. Sparseness levels are adjustable. Labeled cell-specific gene knockout was accomplished by introducing Cre/loxP-based Supernova vectors into floxed mice. Furthermore, by combining with RNAi, TALEN, and CRISPR/Cas9 technologies, IUE-based Supernova achieved labeled cell-specific gene knockdown and editing/knockout without requiring genetically altered mice. Thus, Supernova system is highly extensible and widely applicable for single-cell analyses in complex organs, such as the mammalian brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenshu Luo
- Division of Neurogenetics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, 411-8540, Japan.,Department of Genetics, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Mishima, 411-8540, Japan
| | - Hidenobu Mizuno
- Division of Neurogenetics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, 411-8540, Japan.,Department of Genetics, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Mishima, 411-8540, Japan
| | - Ryohei Iwata
- Division of Neurogenetics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, 411-8540, Japan.,Department of Genetics, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Mishima, 411-8540, Japan
| | - Shingo Nakazawa
- Division of Neurogenetics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, 411-8540, Japan.,Department of Genetics, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Mishima, 411-8540, Japan
| | - Kosuke Yasuda
- Laboratory for Behavioral Genetics, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Wako, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Shigeyoshi Itohara
- Laboratory for Behavioral Genetics, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Wako, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Takuji Iwasato
- Division of Neurogenetics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, 411-8540, Japan.,Department of Genetics, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Mishima, 411-8540, Japan
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74
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Chang L, Li L, Shi J, Sheng Y, Lu W, Gallego-Perez D, Lee LJ. Micro-/nanoscale electroporation. LAB ON A CHIP 2016; 16:4047-4062. [PMID: 27713986 DOI: 10.1039/c6lc00840b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Electroporation has been one of the most popular non-viral technologies for cell transfection. However, conventional bulk electroporation (BEP) shows significant limitations in efficiency, cell viability and transfection uniformity. Recent advances in microscale-electroporation (MEP) resulted in improved cell viability. Further miniaturization of the electroporation system (i.e., nanoscale) has brought up many unique advantages, including negligible cell damage and dosage control capabilities with single-cell resolution, which has enabled more translational applications. In this review, we give an insight into the fundamental and technical aspects of micro- and nanoscale/nanochannel electroporation (NEP) and go over several examples of MEP/NEP-based cutting-edge research, including gene editing, adoptive immunotherapy, and cellular reprogramming. The challenges and opportunities of advanced electroporation technologies are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingqian Chang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Lei Li
- School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | - Junfeng Shi
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Yan Sheng
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43209, USA
| | - Wu Lu
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43209, USA
| | - Daniel Gallego-Perez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA. and Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Ly James Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA. and Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA and William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43209, USA
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75
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Awad PN, Sanon NT, Chattopadhyaya B, Carriço JN, Ouardouz M, Gagné J, Duss S, Wolf D, Desgent S, Cancedda L, Carmant L, Di Cristo G. Reducing premature KCC2 expression rescues seizure susceptibility and spine morphology in atypical febrile seizures. Neurobiol Dis 2016; 91:10-20. [PMID: 26875662 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2016.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Revised: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Atypical febrile seizures are considered a risk factor for epilepsy onset and cognitive impairments later in life. Patients with temporal lobe epilepsy and a history of atypical febrile seizures often carry a cortical malformation. This association has led to the hypothesis that the presence of a cortical dysplasia exacerbates febrile seizures in infancy, in turn increasing the risk for neurological sequelae. The mechanisms linking these events are currently poorly understood. Potassium-chloride cotransporter KCC2 affects several aspects of neuronal circuit development and function, by modulating GABAergic transmission and excitatory synapse formation. Recent data suggest that KCC2 downregulation contributes to seizure generation in the epileptic adult brain, but its role in the developing brain is still controversial. In a rodent model of atypical febrile seizures, combining a cortical dysplasia and hyperthermia-induced seizures (LHS rats), we found a premature and sustained increase in KCC2 protein levels, accompanied by a negative shift of the reversal potential of GABA. In parallel, we observed a significant reduction in dendritic spine size and mEPSC amplitude in CA1 pyramidal neurons, accompanied by spatial memory deficits. To investigate whether KCC2 premature overexpression plays a role in seizure susceptibility and synaptic alterations, we reduced KCC2 expression selectively in hippocampal pyramidal neurons by in utero electroporation of shRNA. Remarkably, KCC2 shRNA-electroporated LHS rats show reduced hyperthermia-induced seizure susceptibility, while dendritic spine size deficits were rescued. Our findings demonstrate that KCC2 overexpression in a compromised developing brain increases febrile seizure susceptibility and contribute to dendritic spine alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia N Awad
- Neurosciences Department, Université de Montréal, 2960 Chemin de la Tour, Montréal, Québec H3T 1N8, Canada; CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, 3175 Chemin de la Côte Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, Québec H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Nathalie T Sanon
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, 3175 Chemin de la Côte Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, Québec H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Bidisha Chattopadhyaya
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, 3175 Chemin de la Côte Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, Québec H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Josianne Nunes Carriço
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, 3175 Chemin de la Côte Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, Québec H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Mohamed Ouardouz
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, 3175 Chemin de la Côte Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, Québec H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Jonathan Gagné
- Neurosciences Department, Université de Montréal, 2960 Chemin de la Tour, Montréal, Québec H3T 1N8, Canada; CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, 3175 Chemin de la Côte Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, Québec H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Sandra Duss
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, 3175 Chemin de la Côte Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, Québec H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Daniele Wolf
- Neurosciences Department, Université de Montréal, 2960 Chemin de la Tour, Montréal, Québec H3T 1N8, Canada; CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, 3175 Chemin de la Côte Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, Québec H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Sébastien Desgent
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, 3175 Chemin de la Côte Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, Québec H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Laura Cancedda
- Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Morego, 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Lionel Carmant
- Neurosciences Department, Université de Montréal, 2960 Chemin de la Tour, Montréal, Québec H3T 1N8, Canada; CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, 3175 Chemin de la Côte Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, Québec H3T 1C5, Canada.
| | - Graziella Di Cristo
- Neurosciences Department, Université de Montréal, 2960 Chemin de la Tour, Montréal, Québec H3T 1N8, Canada; CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, 3175 Chemin de la Côte Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, Québec H3T 1C5, Canada.
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76
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Paredes JM, Idilli AI, Mariotti L, Losi G, Arslanbaeva LR, Sato SS, Artoni P, Szczurkowska J, Cancedda L, Ratto GM, Carmignoto G, Arosio D. Synchronous Bioimaging of Intracellular pH and Chloride Based on LSS Fluorescent Protein. ACS Chem Biol 2016; 11:1652-60. [PMID: 27031242 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.6b00103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Ion homeostasis regulates critical physiological processes in the living cell. Intracellular chloride concentration not only contributes in setting the membrane potential of quiescent cells but it also plays a role in modulating the dynamic voltage changes during network activity. Dynamic chloride imaging demands new tools, allowing faster acquisition rates and correct accounting of concomitant pH changes. Joining a long-Stokes-shift red-fluorescent protein to a GFP variant with high sensitivity to pH and chloride, we obtained LSSmClopHensor, a genetically encoded fluorescent biosensor optimized for the simultaneous chloride and pH imaging and requiring only two excitation wavelengths (458 and 488 nm). LSSmClopHensor allowed us to monitor the dynamic changes of intracellular pH and chloride concentration during seizure like discharges in neocortical brain slices. Only cells with tightly controlled resting potential revealed a narrow distribution of chloride concentration peaking at about 5 and 8 mM, in neocortical neurons and SK-N-SH cells, respectively. We thus showed that LSSmClopHensor represents a new versatile tool for studying the dynamics of chloride and proton concentration in living systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose M. Paredes
- Institute of Biophysics, CNR, Via
alla Cascata 56/C, 38123 Trento, Italy
- Bruno Kessler Foundation, Via
Sommarive 18, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Aurora I. Idilli
- Institute of Biophysics, CNR, Via
alla Cascata 56/C, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Letizia Mariotti
- Neuroscience Institute, CNR, Viale
G. Colombo 3, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Gabriele Losi
- Neuroscience Institute, CNR, Viale
G. Colombo 3, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Lyaysan R. Arslanbaeva
- Institute of Biophysics, CNR, Via
alla Cascata 56/C, 38123 Trento, Italy
- CIBIO, University of Trento, Via delle Regole 101, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Gian Michele Ratto
- Nanoscience Institute, CNR, Pisa, Italy
- Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Daniele Arosio
- Institute of Biophysics, CNR, Via
alla Cascata 56/C, 38123 Trento, Italy
- CIBIO, University of Trento, Via delle Regole 101, 38123 Trento, Italy
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77
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Chen F, Becker A, LoTurco J. Overview of Transgenic Glioblastoma and Oligoastrocytoma CNS Models and Their Utility in Drug Discovery. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 72:14.37.1-14.37.12. [PMID: 26995546 DOI: 10.1002/0471141755.ph1437s72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Many animal models have been developed to investigate the sources of central nervous system (CNS) tumor heterogeneity. Reviewed in this unit is a recently developed CNS tumor model using the piggyBac transposon system delivered by in utero electroporation, in which sources of tumor heterogeneity can be conveniently studied. Their applications for studying CNS tumors and drug discovery are also reviewed. © 2016 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuyi Chen
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Conn.,Current address: Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn
| | - Albert Becker
- Department of Neuropathology, University of Bonn Medical Center, Bonn, Germany
| | - Joseph LoTurco
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Conn
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78
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Szczurkowska J, Cwetsch AW, dal Maschio M, Ghezzi D, Ratto GM, Cancedda L. Targeted in vivo genetic manipulation of the mouse or rat brain by in utero electroporation with a triple-electrode probe. Nat Protoc 2016; 11:399-412. [DOI: 10.1038/nprot.2016.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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79
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Implantable neurotechnologies: electrical stimulation and applications. Med Biol Eng Comput 2016; 54:63-76. [PMID: 26753775 DOI: 10.1007/s11517-015-1442-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Neural stimulation using injected electrical charge is widely used both in functional therapies and as an experimental tool for neuroscience applications. Electrical pulses can induce excitation of targeted neural pathways that aid in the treatment of neural disorders or dysfunction of the central and peripheral nervous system. In this review, we summarize the recent trends in the field of electrical stimulation for therapeutic interventions of nervous system disorders, such as for the restoration of brain, eye, ear, spinal cord, nerve and muscle function. Neural prosthetic applications are discussed, and functional electrical stimulation parameters for treating such disorders are reviewed. Important considerations for implantable packaging and enhancing device reliability are also discussed. Neural stimulators are expected to play a profound role in implantable neural devices that treat disorders and help restore functions in injured or disabled nervous system.
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80
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Piccini A, Perlini LE, Cancedda L, Benfenati F, Giovedì S. Phosphorylation by PKA and Cdk5 Mediates the Early Effects of Synapsin III in Neuronal Morphological Maturation. J Neurosci 2015; 35:13148-59. [PMID: 26400944 PMCID: PMC6605445 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1379-15.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Revised: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Synapsin III (SynIII) is a neuron-specific phosphoprotein that plays a unique role in neuronal development. SynIII is phosphorylated by cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) at a highly conserved phosphorylation site and by cyclin-dependent kinase-5 (Cdk5) at a newly described site. Although SynIII is known to be involved in axon elongation in vitro, the role of its phosphorylation by PKA and Cdk5 in the modulation of this process is unknown. We expressed either wild-type (WT) or phosphorylation-site mutants of SynIII in primary SynIII knock-out (KO) mouse neurons at early stages of in vitro development. Whereas the neurite elongation phenotype of SynIII KO neurons was fully rescued by the expression of WT SynIII, the expression of nonphosphorylatable and pseudo-phosphorylated PKA mutants was ineffective. Also, the nonphosphorylatable Cdk5 mutant was unable to rescue the neurite elongation phenotype of SynIII KO neurons. By contrast, the pseudo-phosphorylated mutant rescued the delay in neuronal maturation and axonal elongation, revealing a Cdk5-dependent regulation of SynIII function. Interestingly, SynIII KO neurons also exhibited decreased survival that was fully rescued by the expression of WT SynIII, but not by its phosphorylation mutants, and was associated with increased activated caspase3 and altered tropomyosin receptor kinase B isoform expression. These results indicate that PKA and Cdk5 phosphorylation is required for the physiological action of SynIII on axon specification and neurite outgrowth and that the expression of a functional SynIII is crucial for cell survival. Significance statement: Synapsin III is an atypical member of the synapsin family of synaptic vesicle-associated phosphoproteins that is precociously expressed in neurons and is downregulated afterward. Although experimental evidence suggests a specific role for Synapsin III in neuronal development, the molecular mechanisms are still largely unknown. We found that Synapsin III plays a central role in early stages of neuronal development involving neuronal survival, polarization, and neuritic growth and that these effects are dependent on phosphorylation by cAMP-dependent protein kinase and cyclin-dependent protein kinase-5. These results explain the recently described neurodevelopmental defects in the migration and orientation of Synapsin III-depleted cortical neurons and support the potential association of Synapsin III with neurodevelopmental disorders such as schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Piccini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy, and
| | - Laura E Perlini
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Laura Cancedda
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy, and Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Silvia Giovedì
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy, and
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81
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Luft C, Ketteler R. Electroporation Knows No Boundaries: The Use of Electrostimulation for siRNA Delivery in Cells and Tissues. JOURNAL OF BIOMOLECULAR SCREENING 2015; 20:932-42. [PMID: 25851034 PMCID: PMC4543902 DOI: 10.1177/1087057115579638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2015] [Revised: 03/04/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of RNA interference (RNAi) has enabled several breakthrough discoveries in the area of functional genomics. The RNAi technology has emerged as one of the major tools for drug target identification and has been steadily improved to allow gene manipulation in cell lines, tissues, and whole organisms. One of the major hurdles for the use of RNAi in high-throughput screening has been delivery to cells and tissues. Some cell types are refractory to high-efficiency transfection with standard methods such as lipofection or calcium phosphate precipitation and require different means. Electroporation is a powerful and versatile method for delivery of RNA, DNA, peptides, and small molecules into cell lines and primary cells, as well as whole tissues and organisms. Of particular interest is the use of electroporation for delivery of small interfering RNA oligonucleotides and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/Cas9 plasmid vectors in high-throughput screening and for therapeutic applications. Here, we will review the use of electroporation in high-throughput screening in cell lines and tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christin Luft
- MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Robin Ketteler
- MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, London, UK
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82
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Szczurkowska J, dal Maschio M, Cwetsch AW, Ghezzi D, Bony G, Alabastri A, Zaccaria RP, di Fabrizio E, Ratto GM, Cancedda L. Increased performance in genetic manipulation by modeling the dielectric properties of the rodent brain. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2015; 2013:1615-8. [PMID: 24110012 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2013.6609825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Genetic approaches to control DNA expression in different brain areas have provided an excellent system to characterize gene function in health and disease of animal models. With respect to others, in utero electroporation of exogenous DNA into progenitor cells committed to specific brain areas is the optimal solution in terms of simplicity and velocity. Indeed, this method entails one quick and easy surgical procedure aimed at DNA injection in the embryonic brain followed by brief exposure to a strong electric field by a bipolar electrode. Nevertheless, the technique is still lacking the necessary control and reliability in addressing the field. Moving from a theoretical model that accounts for the morphology and the dielectric properties of the embryonic brain, we developed here a set of novel and reliable experimental configurations based on the use of three electrodes for electroporation in mouse. Indeed, by means of a full 3D model of the embryonic brain and the surrounding environment, we showed that the distribution of the electric field can be finely tuned in order to target specific brain regions at a desired temporal window by proper placement of the three electrodes. In the light of this theoretical background, we manufactured a three-electrode device and performed model-guided experimental sessions. The result was an increased spatial control, extended time frames and unprecedented reliability of the genetic manipulation, with respect to the current state of the art. In particular, the outcomes of this method applied into the mouse model are reported here for the first time.
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83
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Novel mechanism of gene transfection by low-energy shock wave. Sci Rep 2015; 5:12843. [PMID: 26243452 PMCID: PMC4525295 DOI: 10.1038/srep12843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2015] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracorporeal shock wave (SW) therapy has been studied in the transfection of naked nucleic acids into various cell lines through the process of sonoporation, a process that affects the permeation of cell membranes, which can be an effect of cavitation. In this study, siRNAs were efficiently transfected into primary cultured cells and mouse tumor tissue via SW treatment. Furthermore SW-induced siRNA transfection was not mediated by SW-induced sonoporation, but by microparticles (MPs) secreted from the cells. Interestingly, the transfection effect of the siRNAs was transferable through the secreted MPs from human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) culture medium after treatment with SW, into HUVECs in another culture plate without SW treatment. In this study, we suggest for the first time a mechanism of gene transfection induced by low-energy SW through secreted MPs, and show that it is an efficient physical gene transfection method in vitro and represents a safe therapeutic strategy for site-specific gene delivery in vivo.
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84
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Lim JS, Lee JH. Molecular genetic decoding of malformations of cortical development. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.5734/jgm.2015.12.1.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jae Seok Lim
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Jeong Ho Lee
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Korea
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85
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Bullmann T, Arendt T, Frey U, Hanashima C. A transportable, inexpensive electroporator for in utero electroporation. Dev Growth Differ 2015; 57:369-377. [PMID: 25988525 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Revised: 03/31/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Electroporation is a useful technique to study gene function during development but its broad application is hampered due to the expensive equipment needed. We describe the construction of a transportable, simple and inexpensive electroporator delivering square pulses with varying length and amplitude. The device was successfully used for in utero electroporation in mouse with a performance comparable to that of commercial products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torsten Bullmann
- Frey Initiative Research Unit, RIKEN Quantitative Biology Center, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0047, Japan.,Laboratory for Neocortical Development, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0047, Japan.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration, Paul Flechsig Institute of Brain Research, University of Leipzig, Liebigstraβe 19, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Thomas Arendt
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration, Paul Flechsig Institute of Brain Research, University of Leipzig, Liebigstraβe 19, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Urs Frey
- Frey Initiative Research Unit, RIKEN Quantitative Biology Center, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Carina Hanashima
- Laboratory for Neocortical Development, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0047, Japan
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86
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Perlini LE, Szczurkowska J, Ballif BA, Piccini A, Sacchetti S, Giovedì S, Benfenati F, Cancedda L. Synapsin III acts downstream of semaphorin 3A/CDK5 signaling to regulate radial migration and orientation of pyramidal neurons in vivo. Cell Rep 2015; 11:234-48. [PMID: 25843720 PMCID: PMC4405008 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2015.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Revised: 02/13/2015] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Synapsin III (SynIII) is a phosphoprotein that is highly expressed at early stages of neuronal development. Whereas in vitro evidence suggests a role for SynIII in neuronal differentiation, in vivo evidence is lacking. Here, we demonstrate that in vivo downregulation of SynIII expression affects neuronal migration and orientation. By contrast, SynIII overexpression affects neuronal migration, but not orientation. We identify a cyclin-dependent kinase-5 (CDK5) phosphorylation site on SynIII and use phosphomutant rescue experiments to demonstrate its role in SynIII function. Finally, we show that SynIII phosphorylation at the CDK5 site is induced by activation of the semaphorin-3A (Sema3A) pathway, which is implicated in migration and orientation of cortical pyramidal neurons (PNs) and is known to activate CDK5. Thus, fine-tuning of SynIII expression and phosphorylation by CDK5 activation through Sema3A activity is essential for proper neuronal migration and orientation. Precise regulation of SynIII expression is essential during brain development SynIII regulates neuronal migration, orientation, and morphological maturation SynIII acts downstream of the Sema3A pathway, which involves NP1 and kinase CDK5 Phosphorylation of SynIII by CDK5 on Ser404 is essential for SynIII function
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Perlini
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa 16163, Italy; Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa 16132, Italy
| | - Joanna Szczurkowska
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa 16163, Italy
| | - Bryan A Ballif
- Department of Biology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405-0086, USA
| | - Alessandra Piccini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa 16132, Italy
| | - Silvio Sacchetti
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa 16163, Italy
| | - Silvia Giovedì
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa 16132, Italy
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa 16163, Italy; Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa 16132, Italy
| | - Laura Cancedda
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa 16163, Italy.
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87
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Deidda G, Allegra M, Cerri C, Naskar S, Bony G, Zunino G, Bozzi Y, Caleo M, Cancedda L. Early depolarizing GABA controls critical-period plasticity in the rat visual cortex. Nat Neurosci 2014; 18:87-96. [PMID: 25485756 PMCID: PMC4338533 DOI: 10.1038/nn.3890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 11/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Hyperpolarizing and inhibitory GABA regulates critical periods for plasticity in sensory cortices. Here we examine the role of early, depolarizing GABA in the control of plasticity mechanisms. We report that brief interference with depolarizing GABA during early development prolonged critical-period plasticity in visual cortical circuits without affecting the overall development of the visual system. The effects on plasticity were accompanied by dampened inhibitory neurotransmission, downregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression and reduced density of extracellular matrix perineuronal nets. Early interference with depolarizing GABA decreased perinatal BDNF signaling, and a pharmacological increase of BDNF signaling during GABA interference rescued the effects on plasticity and its regulators later in life. We conclude that depolarizing GABA exerts a long-lasting, selective modulation of plasticity of cortical circuits by a strong crosstalk with BDNF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Deidda
- Neuroscience and Brain Technologies Department, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Manuela Allegra
- 1] Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy. [2] CNR Neuroscience Institute, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Shovan Naskar
- Neuroscience and Brain Technologies Department, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Guillaume Bony
- Neuroscience and Brain Technologies Department, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Giulia Zunino
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropathology, Centre for Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Yuri Bozzi
- 1] CNR Neuroscience Institute, Pisa, Italy. [2] Laboratory of Molecular Neuropathology, Centre for Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | | | - Laura Cancedda
- Neuroscience and Brain Technologies Department, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
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88
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De la Rossa A, Jabaudon D. In vivo rapid gene delivery into postmitotic neocortical neurons using iontoporation. Nat Protoc 2014; 10:25-32. [DOI: 10.1038/nprot.2015.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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89
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Arosio D, Ratto GM. Twenty years of fluorescence imaging of intracellular chloride. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:258. [PMID: 25221475 PMCID: PMC4148895 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Chloride homeostasis has a pivotal role in controlling neuronal excitability in the adult brain and during development. The intracellular concentration of chloride is regulated by the dynamic equilibrium between passive fluxes through membrane conductances and the active transport mediated by importers and exporters. In cortical neurons, chloride fluxes are coupled to network activity by the opening of the ionotropic GABAA receptors that provides a direct link between the activity of interneurons and chloride fluxes. These molecular mechanisms are not evenly distributed and regulated over the neuron surface and this fact can lead to a compartmentalized control of the intracellular concentration of chloride. The inhibitory drive provided by the activity of the GABAA receptors depends on the direction and strength of the associated currents, which are ultimately dictated by the gradient of chloride, the main charge carrier flowing through the GABAA channel. Thus, the intracellular distribution of chloride determines the local strength of ionotropic inhibition and influences the interaction between converging excitation and inhibition. The importance of chloride regulation is also underlined by its involvement in several brain pathologies, including epilepsy and disorders of the autistic spectra. The full comprehension of the physiological meaning of GABAergic activity on neurons requires the measurement of the spatiotemporal dynamics of chloride fluxes across the membrane. Nowadays, there are several available tools for the task, and both synthetic and genetically encoded indicators have been successfully used for chloride imaging. Here, we will review the available sensors analyzing their properties and outlining desirable future developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Arosio
- Institute of Biophysics, National Research Council and Bruno Kessler Foundation Trento, Italy ; Centre for Integrative Biology, University of Trento Trento, Italy
| | - Gian Michele Ratto
- Nanoscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy Pisa, Italy ; NEST, Scuola Normale Superiore Pisa, Italy
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90
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Liu Y, Fu S, Niu R, Yang C, Lin J. Transcriptional activity assessment of three different promoters for mouse in utero electroporation system. Plasmid 2014; 74:52-8. [PMID: 24984206 DOI: 10.1016/j.plasmid.2014.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2014] [Revised: 06/20/2014] [Accepted: 06/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In utero electroporation (IUE) is a simple and rapid approach to in vivo investigate exogenous gene function in mouse brain, and intensive studies using IUE have greatly contributed to analyze the characterization of specific steps during mouse brain development. Because the efficiency of IUE is highly dependent on the plasmid used and its concentration, and the transcriptional activity of plasmid is not only regulated by the host defense system, but also by the promoter of the expression vectors. Therefore, in the present study, we evaluated the transcriptional activity of three commonly used promoters, CMV, CAG and SV40, in IUE system through measuring the fluorescence intensity of green fluorescent protein which serves as an indicator. Our results demonstrated that the artificially-designed CAG promoter is a potent promoter that effectively drives target gene expression in IUE system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, 453003 Xinxiang, China; Key Lab for Medical Tissue Regeneration of Henan Province, 453003 Xinxiang, China
| | - Sulei Fu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, 453003 Xinxiang, China
| | - Rongcheng Niu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, 453003 Xinxiang, China
| | - Ciqing Yang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, 453003 Xinxiang, China; Key Lab for Medical Tissue Regeneration of Henan Province, 453003 Xinxiang, China
| | - Juntang Lin
- College of Life Science and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, 453003 Xinxiang, China; Key Lab for Medical Tissue Regeneration of Henan Province, 453003 Xinxiang, China; Institute of Anatomy I, Jena University Hospital, Teichgraben 7, 07743 Jena, Germany.
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91
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Abstract
Over the past several years the pial surface has been identified as a germinal niche of importance during embryonic, perinatal and adult neuro- and gliogenesis, including after injury. However, methods for genetically interrogating these progenitor populations and tracking their lineages had been limited owing to a lack of specificity or time consuming production of viruses. Thus, progress in this region has been relatively slow with only a handful of investigations of this location. Electroporation has been used for over a decade to study neural stem cell properties in the embryo, and more recently in the postnatal brain. Here we describe an efficient, rapid, and simple technique for the genetic manipulation of pial surface progenitors based on an adapted electroporation approach. Pial surface electroporation allows for facile genetic labeling and manipulation of these progenitors, thus representing a time-saving and economical approach for studying these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachelle Levy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
| | - Jessica Molina
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
| | - Moise Danielpour
- Department of Neurosurgery, Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
| | - Joshua J Breunig
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center;
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92
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Zuccaro E, Bergami M, Vignoli B, Bony G, Pierchala BA, Santi S, Cancedda L, Canossa M. Polarized expression of p75(NTR) specifies axons during development and adult neurogenesis. Cell Rep 2014; 7:138-52. [PMID: 24685135 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2014.02.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2012] [Revised: 02/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
VIDEO ABSTRACT Newly generated neurons initiate polarizing signals that specify a single axon and multiple dendrites, a process critical for patterning neuronal circuits in vivo. Here, we report that the pan-neurotrophin receptor p75(NTR) is a polarity regulator that localizes asymmetrically in differentiating neurons in response to neurotrophins and is required for specification of the future axon. In cultured hippocampal neurons, local exposure to neurotrophins causes early accumulation of p75(NTR) into one undifferentiated neurite to specify axon fate. Moreover, knockout or knockdown of p75(NTR) results in failure to initiate an axon in newborn neurons upon cell-cycle exit in vitro and in the developing cortex, as well as during adult hippocampal neurogenesis in vivo. Hence, p75(NTR) governs neuronal polarity, determining pattern and assembly of neuronal circuits in adult hippocampus and cortical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Zuccaro
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), via Morego 30, I-16163 Genoa, Italy
| | - Matteo Bergami
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), via Morego 30, I-16163 Genoa, Italy; Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University Hospital of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Strasse 26, Cologne, Germany
| | - Beatrice Vignoli
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), via Morego 30, I-16163 Genoa, Italy
| | - Guillaume Bony
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), via Morego 30, I-16163 Genoa, Italy
| | - Brian A Pierchala
- Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, 1011 N. University Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Spartaco Santi
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Molecular Genetics (IGM)-Bologna, Laboratory of Muscoloskeletal Cell Biology, IOR, via di Barbiano1/10, I-40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Cancedda
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), via Morego 30, I-16163 Genoa, Italy.
| | - Marco Canossa
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), via Morego 30, I-16163 Genoa, Italy; European Brain Research Institute (EBRI) "Rita Levi-Montalcini," via del Fosso di Fiorano 64/65, I-00143 Rome, Italy.
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93
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Pischedda F, Szczurkowska J, Cirnaru MD, Giesert F, Vezzoli E, Ueffing M, Sala C, Francolini M, Hauck SM, Cancedda L, Piccoli G. A cell surface biotinylation assay to reveal membrane-associated neuronal cues: Negr1 regulates dendritic arborization. Mol Cell Proteomics 2013; 13:733-48. [PMID: 24382801 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m113.031716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
A complex and still not comprehensively resolved panel of transmembrane proteins regulates the outgrowth and the subsequent morphological and functional development of neuronal processes. In order to gain a more detailed description of these events at the molecular level, we have developed a cell surface biotinylation assay to isolate, detect, and quantify neuronal membrane proteins. When we applied our assay to investigate neuron maturation in vitro, we identified 439 differentially expressed proteins, including 20 members of the immunoglobulin superfamily. Among these candidates, we focused on Negr1, a poorly described cell adhesion molecule. We demonstrated that Negr1 controls the development of neurite arborization in vitro and in vivo. Given the tight correlation existing among synaptic cell adhesion molecules, neuron maturation, and a number of neurological disorders, our assay results are a useful tool that can be used to support the understanding of the molecular bases of physiological and pathological brain function.
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94
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Bony G, Szczurkowska J, Tamagno I, Shelly M, Contestabile A, Cancedda L. Non-hyperpolarizing GABAB receptor activation regulates neuronal migration and neurite growth and specification by cAMP/LKB1. Nat Commun 2013; 4:1800. [PMID: 23653212 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms2820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2012] [Accepted: 03/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
γ-Aminobutyric acid is the principal inhibitory neurotransmitter in adults, acting through ionotropic chloride-permeable GABAA receptors (GABAARs), and metabotropic GABABRs coupled to calcium or potassium channels, and cyclic AMP signalling. During early development, γ-aminobutyric acid is the main neurotransmitter and is not hyperpolarizing, as GABAAR activation is depolarizing while GABABRs lack coupling to potassium channels. Despite extensive knowledge on GABAARs as key factors in neuronal development, the role of GABABRs remains unclear. Here we address GABABR function during rat cortical development by in utero knockdown (short interfering RNA) of GABABR in pyramidal-neuron progenitors. GABABR short interfering RNA impairs neuronal migration and axon/dendrite morphological maturation by disrupting cyclic AMP signalling. Furthermore, GABABR activation reduces cyclic AMP-dependent phosphorylation of LKB1, a kinase involved in neuronal polarization, and rescues LKB1 overexpression-induced defects in cortical development. Thus, non-hyperpolarizing activation of GABABRs during development promotes neuronal migration and morphological maturation by cyclic AMP/LKB1 signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Bony
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30 Genoa 16163, Italy
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95
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Sonego M, Zhou Y, Oudin MJ, Doherty P, Lalli G. In vivo postnatal electroporation and time-lapse imaging of neuroblast migration in mouse acute brain slices. J Vis Exp 2013. [PMID: 24326479 DOI: 10.3791/50905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The subventricular zone (SVZ) is one of the main neurogenic niches in the postnatal brain. Here, neural progenitors proliferate and give rise to neuroblasts able to move along the rostral migratory stream (RMS) towards the olfactory bulb (OB). This long-distance migration is required for the subsequent maturation of newborn neurons in the OB, but the molecular mechanisms regulating this process are still unclear. Investigating the signaling pathways controlling neuroblast motility may not only help understand a fundamental step in neurogenesis, but also have therapeutic regenerative potential, given the ability of these neuroblasts to target brain sites affected by injury, stroke, or degeneration. In this manuscript we describe a detailed protocol for in vivo postnatal electroporation and subsequent time-lapse imaging of neuroblast migration in the mouse RMS. Postnatal electroporation can efficiently transfect SVZ progenitor cells, which in turn generate neuroblasts migrating along the RMS. Using confocal spinning disk time-lapse microscopy on acute brain slice cultures, neuroblast migration can be monitored in an environment closely resembling the in vivo condition. Moreover, neuroblast motility can be tracked and quantitatively analyzed. As an example, we describe how to use in vivo postnatal electroporation of a GFP-expressing plasmid to label and visualize neuroblasts migrating along the RMS. Electroporation of shRNA or CRE recombinase-expressing plasmids in conditional knockout mice employing the LoxP system can also be used to target genes of interest. Pharmacological manipulation of acute brain slice cultures can be performed to investigate the role of different signaling molecules in neuroblast migration. By coupling in vivo electroporation with time-lapse imaging, we hope to understand the molecular mechanisms controlling neuroblast motility and contribute to the development of novel approaches to promote brain repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Sonego
- Wolfson Centre for Age-Related Diseases, King's College London
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96
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Vomund S, Sapir T, Reiner O, Silva MADS, Korth C. Generation of topically transgenic rats by in utero electroporation and in vivo bioluminescence screening. J Vis Exp 2013:e50146. [PMID: 24084570 DOI: 10.3791/50146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In utero electroporation (IUE) is a technique which allows genetic modification of cells in the brain for investigating neuronal development. So far, the use of IUE for investigating behavior or neuropathology in the adult brain has been limited by insufficient methods for monitoring of IUE transfection success by non-invasive techniques in postnatal animals. For the present study, E16 rats were used for IUE. After intraventricular injection of the nucleic acids into the embryos, positioning of the tweezer electrodes was critical for targeting either the developing cortex or the hippocampus. Ventricular co-injection and electroporation of a luciferase gene allowed monitoring of the transfected cells postnatally after intraperitoneal luciferin injection in the anesthetized live P7 pup by in vivo bioluminescence, using an IVIS Spectrum device with 3D quantification software. Area definition by bioluminescence could clearly differentiate between cortical and hippocampal electroporations and detect a signal longitudinally over time up to 5 weeks after birth. This imaging technique allowed us to select pups with a sufficient number of transfected cells assumed necessary for triggering biological effects and, subsequently, to perform behavioral investigations at 3 month of age. As an example, this study demonstrates that IUE with the human full length DISC1 gene into the rat cortex led to amphetamine hypersensitivity. Co-transfected GFP could be detected in neurons by post mortem fluorescence microscopy in cryosections indicating gene expression present at ≥6 months after birth. We conclude that postnatal bioluminescence imaging allows evaluating the success of transient transfections with IUE in rats. Investigations on the influence of topical gene manipulations during neurodevelopment on the adult brain and its connectivity are greatly facilitated. For many scientific questions, this technique can supplement or even replace the use of transgenic rats and provide a novel technology for behavioral neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Vomund
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical School Düsseldorf
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97
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Semple-Rowland SL, Berry J. Use of lentiviral vectors to deliver and express bicistronic transgenes in developing chicken embryos. Methods 2013; 66:466-73. [PMID: 23816789 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2013.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2013] [Revised: 05/16/2013] [Accepted: 06/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The abilities of lentiviral vectors to carry large transgenes (∼8kb) and to efficiently infect and integrate these genes into the genomes of both dividing and non-dividing cells make them ideal candidates for transport of genetic material into cells and tissues. Given the properties of these vectors, it is somewhat surprising that they have seen only limited use in studies of developing tissues and in particular of the developing nervous system. Over the past several years, we have taken advantage of the large capacity of these vectors to explore the expression characteristics of several dual promoter and 2A peptide bicistronic transgenes in developing chick neural retina, with the goal of identifying transgene designs that reliably express multiple proteins in infected cells. Here we summarize the activities of several of these transgenes in neural retina and provide detailed methodologies for packaging lentivirus and delivering the virus into the developing neural tubes of chicken embryos in ovo, procedures that have been optimized over the course of several years of use in our laboratory. Conditions to hatch injected embryos are also discussed. The chicken-specific techniques will be of highest interest to investigators using avian embryos, development and packaging of lentiviral vectors that reliably express multiple proteins in infected cells should be of interest to all investigators whose experiments demand manipulation and expression of multiple proteins in developing cells and tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan L Semple-Rowland
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, McKnight Brain Institute, Gainesville, FL 32610 0244, United States.
| | - Jonathan Berry
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, McKnight Brain Institute, Gainesville, FL 32610 0244, United States.
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98
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Ding X, Zhao Y, Fan W, Wu L, Huang X, Wang F, He Y, Liu S, Wu Y, Zhao T, Wu Y, Zhu L, Fan M. Gene transfer into the both sides of postnatal cerebral cortex using tweezer electrode. CNS Neurosci Ther 2013; 19:197-8. [PMID: 23302253 PMCID: PMC6493395 DOI: 10.1111/cns.12056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2012] [Revised: 12/12/2012] [Accepted: 12/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Xue‐Feng Ding
- Department of Cognitive SciencesBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yong‐Qi Zhao
- Department of Cognitive SciencesBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Wen‐Hong Fan
- National Institutes for Food and Drug ControlBeijingChina
| | - Li‐Ying Wu
- Department of Cognitive SciencesBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Cognitive SciencesBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Cognitive SciencesBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yun‐Ling He
- Department of Cognitive SciencesBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Shu‐Hong Liu
- Department of Cognitive SciencesBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yan Wu
- Department of Cognitive SciencesBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Tong Zhao
- Department of Cognitive SciencesBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Ying Wu
- Department of Cognitive SciencesBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Ling‐Ling Zhu
- Department of Cognitive SciencesBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Ming Fan
- Department of Cognitive SciencesBeijing Institute of Basic Medical SciencesBeijingChina
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