51
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Ning L, Geng Y, Lovett-Barron M, Niu X, Deng M, Wang L, Ataie N, Sens A, Ng HL, Chen S, Deisseroth K, Lin MZ, Chu J. A Bright, Nontoxic, and Non-aggregating red Fluorescent Protein for Long-Term Labeling of Fine Structures in Neurons. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:893468. [PMID: 35846353 PMCID: PMC9278655 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.893468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Red fluorescent proteins are useful as morphological markers in neurons, often complementing green fluorescent protein-based probes of neuronal activity. However, commonly used red fluorescent proteins show aggregation and toxicity in neurons or are dim. We report the engineering of a bright red fluorescent protein, Crimson, that enables long-term morphological labeling of neurons without aggregation or toxicity. Crimson is similar to mCherry and mKate2 in fluorescence spectra but is 100 and 28% greater in molecular brightness, respectively. We used a membrane-localized Crimson-CAAX to label thin neurites, dendritic spines and filopodia, enhancing detection of these small structures compared to cytosolic markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Ning
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Yang Geng
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States.,Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | | | - Xiaoman Niu
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Mengying Deng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Optical Imaging Technology and Center for Biomedical Optics and Molecular Imaging, and CAS Key Laboratory of Health Informatics, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liang Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Optical Imaging Technology and Center for Biomedical Optics and Molecular Imaging, and CAS Key Laboratory of Health Informatics, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Niloufar Ataie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
| | - Alex Sens
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
| | - Ho-Leung Ng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
| | - Shoudeng Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Karl Deisseroth
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Michael Z Lin
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States.,Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Jun Chu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Optical Imaging Technology and Center for Biomedical Optics and Molecular Imaging, and CAS Key Laboratory of Health Informatics, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
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52
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Espinosa-Jiménez T, Busquets O, Cano A, Sánchez-López E, Verdaguer E, Parcerisas A, Olloquequi J, Auladell C, Folch J, Wahli W, Vázquez-Carrera M, Camins A, Ettcheto M. Peroxisomal Proliferator-Activated Receptor β/δ Deficiency Induces Cognitive Alterations. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:902047. [PMID: 35899125 PMCID: PMC9310104 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.902047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor β/δ (PPARβ/δ), the most PPAR abundant isotype in the central nervous system, is involved in microglial homeostasis and metabolism, whose disturbances have been demonstrated to play a key role in memory impairment. Although PPARβ/δ function is well-established in metabolism, its contribution to neuronal and specifically memory process is underexplored. Therefore, the aim of the study is to determine the role of PPARβ/δ in the neuropathological pathways involved in memory impairment and as to whether a risk factor implicated in memory loss such as obesity modulates neuropathological markers. To carry out this study, 6-month-old total knock-out for the Ppard gene male mice with C57BL/6X129/SV background (PPARβ/δ-/-) and wild-type (WT) littermates with the same genetic background were used. Animals were fed, after the weaning (at 21 days old), and throughout their growth, either conventional chow (CT) or a palmitic acid-enriched diet (HFD). Thus, four groups were defined: WT CT, WT HFD, PPARβ/δ-/- CT, and PPARβ/δ-/- HFD. Before sacrifice, novel object recognition test (NORT) and glucose and insulin tolerance tests were performed. After that, animals were sacrificed by intracardiac perfusion or cervical dislocation. Different techniques, such as GolgiStain kit or immunofluorescence, were used to evaluate the role of PPARβ/δ in memory dysfunction. Our results showed a decrease in dendritic spine density and synaptic markers in PPARβ/δ-/- mice, which were corroborated in the NORT. Likewise, our study demonstrated that the lack of PPARβ/δ receptor enhances gliosis in the hippocampus, contributing to astrocyte and microglial activation and to the increase in neuroinflammatory biomarkers. Additionally, alterations in the hippocampal insulin receptor pathway were found. Interestingly, while some of the disturbances caused by the lack of PPARβ/δ were not affected by feeding the HFD, others were exacerbated or required the combination of both factors. Taken together, the loss of PPARβ/δ-/- affects neuronal and synaptic structure, contributing to memory dysfunction, and they also present this receptor as a possible new target for the treatment of memory impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Triana Espinosa-Jiménez
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Oriol Busquets
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neurosciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Amanda Cano
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Research Center and Memory Clinic, Fundació ACE Institut Català de Neurociències Aplicades—International University of Catalunya (UIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Sánchez-López
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Unit of Synthesis and Biomedical Applications of Peptides, IQAC-CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ester Verdaguer
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Cellular Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antoni Parcerisas
- Departament of Basic Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (UIC), Sant Cugat del Vallès, Spain
| | - Jordi Olloquequi
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carme Auladell
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Cellular Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Folch
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine and Life Science, University Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Spain
| | - Walter Wahli
- Center for Integrative Genomics, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- ToxAlim (Research Center in Food Toxicology), INRAE, Toulouse Cedex, France
| | - Manuel Vázquez-Carrera
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Spanish Biomedical Research Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Diseases (CIBERDEM)-Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antoni Camins
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miren Ettcheto
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- *Correspondence: Miren Ettcheto,
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53
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3dSpAn: An interactive software for 3D segmentation and analysis of dendritic spines. Neuroinformatics 2022; 20:679-698. [PMID: 34743262 DOI: 10.1007/s12021-021-09549-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Three-dimensional segmentation and analysis of dendritic spine morphology involve two major challenges: 1) how to segment individual spines from the dendrites and 2) how to quantitatively assess the morphology of individual spines. To address these two issues, we developed software called 3dSpAn (3-dimensional Spine Analysis), based on implementing a previously published method, 3D multi-scale opening algorithm in shared intensity space. 3dSpAn consists of four modules: a) Preprocessing and Region of Interest (ROI) selection, b) Intensity thresholding and seed selection, c) Multi-scale segmentation, and d) Quantitative morphological feature extraction. In this article, we present the results of segmentation and morphological analysis for different observation methods and conditions, including in vitro and ex vivo imaging with confocal microscopy, and in vivo observations using high-resolution two-photon microscopy. In particular, we focus on software usage, the influence of adjustable parameters on the obtained results, user reproducibility, accuracy analysis, and also include a qualitative comparison with a commercial benchmark. 3dSpAn software is freely available for non-commercial use at www.3dSpAn.org .
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54
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Khan S. Endoplasmic Reticulum in Metaplasticity: From Information Processing to Synaptic Proteostasis. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:5630-5655. [PMID: 35739409 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02916-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The ER (endoplasmic reticulum) is a Ca2+ reservoir and the unique protein-synthesizing machinery which is distributed throughout the neuron and composed of multiple different structural domains. One such domain is called EMC (endoplasmic reticulum membrane protein complex), pleiotropic nature in cellular functions. The ER/EMC position inside the neurons unmasks its contribution to synaptic plasticity via regulating various cellular processes from protein synthesis to Ca2+ signaling. Since presynaptic Ca2+ channels and postsynaptic ionotropic receptors are organized into the nanodomains, thus ER can be a crucial player in establishing TMNCs (transsynaptic molecular nanocolumns) to shape efficient neural communications. This review hypothesized that ER is not only involved in stress-mediated neurodegeneration but also axon regrowth, remyelination, neurotransmitter switching, information processing, and regulation of pre- and post-synaptic functions. Thus ER might not only be a protein-synthesizing and quality control machinery but also orchestrates plasticity of plasticity (metaplasticity) within the neuron to execute higher-order brain functions and neural repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shumsuzzaman Khan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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55
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de Souza JM, Ferreira-Vieira TH, Maciel EMA, Silva NC, Lima IBQ, Doria JG, Olmo IG, Ribeiro FM. mGluR5 ablation leads to age-related synaptic plasticity impairments and does not improve Huntington’s disease phenotype. Sci Rep 2022; 12:8982. [PMID: 35643779 PMCID: PMC9148310 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13029-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutamate receptors, including mGluR5, are involved in learning and memory impairments triggered by aging and neurological diseases. However, each condition involves distinct molecular mechanisms. It is still unclear whether the mGluR5 cell signaling pathways involved in normal brain aging differ from those altered due to neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we employed wild type (WT), mGluR5−/−, BACHD, which is a mouse model of Huntington’s Disease (HD), and mGluR5−/−/BACHD mice, at the ages of 2, 6 and 12 months, to distinguish the mGluR5-dependent cell signaling pathways involved in aging and neurodegenerative diseases. We demonstrated that the memory impairment exhibited by mGluR5−/− mice is accompanied by massive neuronal loss and decreased dendritic spine density in the hippocampus, similarly to BACHD and BACHD/mGluR5−/− mice. Moreover, mGluR5 ablation worsens some of the HD-related alterations. We also show that mGluR5−/− and BACHD/mGluR5−/− mice have decreased levels of PSD95, BDNF, and Arc/Arg3.1, whereas BACHD mice are mostly spared. PSD95 expression was affected exclusively by mGluR5 ablation in the aging context, making it a potential target to treat age-related alterations. Taken together, we reaffirm the relevance of mGluR5 for memory and distinguish the mGluR5 cell signaling pathways involved in normal brain aging from those implicated in HD.
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56
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Li N, Chen S, Xu NJ, Sun S, Chen JJ, Liu XD. Scaffold Protein Lnx1 Stabilizes EphB Receptor Kinases for Synaptogenesis. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:861873. [PMID: 35531068 PMCID: PMC9070102 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.861873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Postsynaptic structure assembly and remodeling are crucial for functional synapse formation during the establishment of neural circuits. However, how the specific scaffold proteins regulate this process during the development of the postnatal period is poorly understood. In this study, we find that the deficiency of ligand of Numb protein X 1 (Lnx1) leads to abnormal development of dendritic spines to impair functional synaptic formation. We further demonstrate that loss of Lnx1 promotes the internalization of EphB receptors from the cell surface. Constitutively active EphB2 intracellular signaling rescues synaptogenesis in Lnx1 mutant mice. Our data thus reveal a molecular mechanism whereby the Lnx1-EphB complex controls postsynaptic structure for synapse maturation during the adolescent period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Si Chen
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Nan-Jie Xu
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Suya Sun
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin-Jin Chen
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xian-Dong Liu
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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57
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Breach MR, Dye CN, Galan A, Lenz KM. Prenatal allergic inflammation in rats programs the developmental trajectory of dendritic spine patterning in brain regions associated with cognitive and social behavior. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 102:279-291. [PMID: 35245680 PMCID: PMC9070022 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Allergic inflammation during pregnancy increases risk for a diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders such as Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the offspring. Previously, we found a model of such inflammation, allergy-induced maternal immune activation (MIA), produced symptoms analogous to those associated with neurodevelopmental disorders in rats, including reduced juvenile play behavior, hyperactivity, and cognitive inflexibility. These behaviors were preceded by perinatal changes in microglia colonization and phenotype in multiple relevant brain regions. Given the role that microglia play in synaptic patterning as well as evidence for altered synaptic architecture in neurodevelopmental disorders, we investigated whether allergic MIA altered the dynamics of dendritic spine patterning throughout key regions of the rat forebrain across neurodevelopment. Adult virgin female rats were sensitized to the allergen, ovalbumin, with alum adjuvant, bred, and allergically challenged on gestational day 15. Brain tissue was collected from male and female offspring on postnatal days (P) 5, 15, 30, and 100-120 and processed for Golgi-Cox staining. Mean dendritic spine density was calculated for neurons in brain regions associated with cognition and social behavior, including the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), basal ganglia, septum, nucleus accumbens (NAc), and amygdala. Allergic MIA reduced dendritic spine density in the neonatal (P5) and juvenile (P15) mPFC, but these mPFC spine deficits were normalized by P30. Allergic inflammation reduced spine density in the septum of juvenile (P30) rats, with an interaction suggesting increased density in males and reduced density in females. MIA-induced reductions in spine density were also found in the female basal ganglia at P15, as well as in the NAc at P30. Conversely, MIA-induced increases were found in the NAc in adulthood. While amygdala dendritic spine density was generally unaffected throughout development, MIA reduced density in both medial and basolateral subregions in adult offspring. Correlational analyses revealed disruption to amygdala-related networks in the neonatal animals and cortico-striatal related networks in juvenile and adult animals in a sex-specific manner. Collectively, these data suggest that communication within and between these cognitive and social brain regions may be altered dynamically throughout development after prenatal exposure to allergic inflammation. They also provide a basis for future intervention studies targeted at rescuing spine and behavior changes via immunomodulatory treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela R. Breach
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Courtney N. Dye
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Anabel Galan
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kathryn M. Lenz
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA,Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA,Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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58
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Huertas MA, Newton AJH, McDougal RA, Sacktor TC, Shouval HZ. Conditions for Synaptic Specificity during the Maintenance Phase of Synaptic Plasticity. eNeuro 2022; 9:ENEURO.0064-22.2022. [PMID: 35443991 PMCID: PMC9087736 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0064-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Activity-dependent modifications of synaptic efficacies are a cellular substrate of learning and memory. Experimental evidence shows that these modifications are synapse specific and that the long-lasting effects are associated with the sustained increase in concentration of specific proteins like PKMζ However, such proteins are likely to diffuse away from their initial synaptic location and spread out to neighboring synapses, potentially compromising synapse specificity. In this article, we address the issue of synapse specificity during memory maintenance. Assuming that the long-term maintenance of synaptic plasticity is accomplished by a molecular switch, we carry out analytical calculations and perform simulations using the reaction-diffusion package in NEURON to determine the limits of synapse specificity during maintenance. Moreover, we explore the effects of the diffusion and degradation rates of proteins and of the geometrical characteristics of dendritic spines on synapse specificity. We conclude that the necessary conditions for synaptic specificity during maintenance require that molecular switches reside in dendritic spines. The requirement for synaptic specificity when the molecular switch resides in spines still imposes strong limits on the diffusion and turnover of rates of maintenance molecules, as well as on the morphologic properties of synaptic spines. These constraints are quite general and apply to most existing models suggested for maintenance. The parameter values can be experimentally evaluated, and if they do not fit the appropriate predicted range, the validity of this class of maintenance models would be challenged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A Huertas
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Texas Medical School, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Adam J H Newton
- Yale Center for Medical Informatics, New Haven, CT 06520
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY 11203
| | - Robert A McDougal
- Yale Center for Medical Informatics, New Haven, CT 06520
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Todd Charlton Sacktor
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology, Anesthesiology, and Neurology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY 11203
| | - Harel Z Shouval
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Texas Medical School, Houston, TX 77030
- Department Electrical and Computer Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005
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59
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Rosado J, Bui VD, Haas CA, Beck J, Queisser G, Vlachos A. Calcium modeling of spine apparatus-containing human dendritic spines demonstrates an “all-or-nothing” communication switch between the spine head and dendrite. PLoS Comput Biol 2022; 18:e1010069. [PMID: 35468131 PMCID: PMC9071165 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1010069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic spines are highly dynamic neuronal compartments that control the synaptic transmission between neurons. Spines form ultrastructural units, coupling synaptic contact sites to the dendritic shaft and often harbor a spine apparatus organelle, composed of smooth endoplasmic reticulum, which is responsible for calcium sequestration and release into the spine head and neck. The spine apparatus has recently been linked to synaptic plasticity in adult human cortical neurons. While the morphological heterogeneity of spines and their intracellular organization has been extensively demonstrated in animal models, the influence of spine apparatus organelles on critical signaling pathways, such as calcium-mediated dynamics, is less well known in human dendritic spines. In this study we used serial transmission electron microscopy to anatomically reconstruct nine human cortical spines in detail as a basis for modeling and simulation of the calcium dynamics between spine and dendrite. The anatomical study of reconstructed human dendritic spines revealed that the size of the postsynaptic density correlates with spine head volume and that the spine apparatus volume is proportional to the spine volume. Using a newly developed simulation pipeline, we have linked these findings to spine-to-dendrite calcium communication. While the absence of a spine apparatus, or the presence of a purely passive spine apparatus did not enable any of the reconstructed spines to relay a calcium signal to the dendritic shaft, the calcium-induced calcium release from this intracellular organelle allowed for finely tuned “all-or-nothing” spine-to-dendrite calcium coupling; controlled by spine morphology, neck plasticity, and ryanodine receptors. Our results suggest that spine apparatus organelles are strategically positioned in the neck of human dendritic spines and demonstrate their potential relevance to the maintenance and regulation of spine-to-dendrite calcium communication. During the past decade it has become increasingly clear that abnormal synaptic plasticity is a major hallmark of neurological and cognitive disorders. Developing a better understanding of the synaptic plasticity process, which describes the ability of neurons to adapt their contacts in an activity-dependent manner, will lead to improved treatment of many neurological and cognitive disorders. It is known that calcium-dependent events such as synaptic transmission, intracellular calcium release, and calcium wave propagation, are required for many types of synaptic plasticity expression. However, the biological significance of these processes in neurons of the adult human cortex remains unknown. Due to technical limitations and ethical concerns, experimental data addressing this biologically and clinically relevant topic are not available. Therefore, we have implemented a computational model to study the intracellular calcium dynamics in realistic human dendritic spines based on detailed morphological reconstructions. With our model and simulations, we have established the morphological and biological requirements for the propagation of calcium from spines into the dendrites. Our results suggest a critical role for the calcium-storing spine apparatus organelle in regulating calcium homeostasis and propagation in human dendritic spines.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Rosado
- Department of Mathematics, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Viet Duc Bui
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Carola A. Haas
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Bernstein Center Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Center Brain Links Brain Tools, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Center for Basics in Neuromodulation (NeuroModulBasics), Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Beck
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Center for Basics in Neuromodulation (NeuroModulBasics), Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gillian Queisser
- Department of Mathematics, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail: (GQ); (AV)
| | - Andreas Vlachos
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Bernstein Center Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Center Brain Links Brain Tools, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Center for Basics in Neuromodulation (NeuroModulBasics), Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- * E-mail: (GQ); (AV)
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60
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Weerasinghe-Mudiyanselage PDE, Ang MJ, Kang S, Kim JS, Moon C. Structural Plasticity of the Hippocampus in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:3349. [PMID: 35328770 PMCID: PMC8955928 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroplasticity is the capacity of neural networks in the brain to alter through development and rearrangement. It can be classified as structural and functional plasticity. The hippocampus is more susceptible to neuroplasticity as compared to other brain regions. Structural modifications in the hippocampus underpin several neurodegenerative diseases that exhibit cognitive and emotional dysregulation. This article reviews the findings of several preclinical and clinical studies about the role of structural plasticity in the hippocampus in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and multiple sclerosis. In this study, literature was surveyed using Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, to review the mechanisms that underlie the alterations in the structural plasticity of the hippocampus in neurodegenerative diseases. This review summarizes the role of structural plasticity in the hippocampus for the etiopathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases and identifies the current focus and gaps in knowledge about hippocampal dysfunctions. Ultimately, this information will be useful to propel future mechanistic and therapeutic research in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poornima D. E. Weerasinghe-Mudiyanselage
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Animal Behavior, College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Korea; (P.D.E.W.-M.); (M.J.A.); (S.K.); (J.-S.K.)
| | - Mary Jasmin Ang
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Animal Behavior, College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Korea; (P.D.E.W.-M.); (M.J.A.); (S.K.); (J.-S.K.)
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Los Baños 4031, Philippines
| | - Sohi Kang
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Animal Behavior, College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Korea; (P.D.E.W.-M.); (M.J.A.); (S.K.); (J.-S.K.)
| | - Joong-Sun Kim
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Animal Behavior, College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Korea; (P.D.E.W.-M.); (M.J.A.); (S.K.); (J.-S.K.)
| | - Changjong Moon
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Animal Behavior, College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 FOUR Program, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Korea; (P.D.E.W.-M.); (M.J.A.); (S.K.); (J.-S.K.)
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Rasia-Filho AA. Unraveling Brain Microcircuits, Dendritic Spines, and Synaptic Processing Using Multiple Complementary Approaches. Front Physiol 2022; 13:831568. [PMID: 35295578 PMCID: PMC8918670 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.831568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alberto A. Rasia-Filho
- Department of Basic Sciences/Physiology, Graduate Program in Biosciences, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Resveratrol attenuates methylmercury-induced neurotoxicity by modulating synaptic homeostasis. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2022; 440:115952. [DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2022.115952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Analysis of mRNA and Protein Levels of CAP2, DLG1 and ADAM10 Genes in Post-Mortem Brain of Schizophrenia, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's Disease Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031539. [PMID: 35163460 PMCID: PMC8835961 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a mental illness characterized by aberrant synaptic plasticity and connectivity. A large bulk of evidence suggests genetic and functional links between postsynaptic abnormalities and SCZ. Here, we performed quantitative PCR and Western blotting analysis in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and hippocampus of SCZ patients to investigate the mRNA and protein expression of three key spine shapers: the actin-binding protein cyclase-associated protein 2 (CAP2), the sheddase a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 10 (ADAM10), and the synapse-associated protein 97 (SAP97). Our analysis of the SCZ post-mortem brain indicated increased DLG1 mRNA in DLPFC and decreased CAP2 mRNA in the hippocampus of SCZ patients, compared to non-psychiatric control subjects, while the ADAM10 transcript was unaffected. Conversely, no differences in CAP2, SAP97, and ADAM10 protein levels were detected between SCZ and control individuals in both brain regions. To assess whether DLG1 and CAP2 transcript alterations were selective for SCZ, we also measured their expression in the superior frontal gyrus of patients affected by neurodegenerative disorders, like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. Interestingly, also in Parkinson’s disease patients, we found a selective reduction of CAP2 mRNA levels relative to controls but unaltered protein levels. Taken together, we reported for the first time altered CAP2 expression in the brain of patients with psychiatric and neurological disorders, thus suggesting that aberrant expression of this gene may contribute to synaptic dysfunction in these neuropathologies.
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Pelucchi S, Gardoni F, Di Luca M, Marcello E. Synaptic dysfunction in early phases of Alzheimer's Disease. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2022; 184:417-438. [PMID: 35034752 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-819410-2.00022-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The synapse is the locus of plasticity where short-term alterations in synaptic strength are converted to long-lasting memories. In addition to the presynaptic terminal and the postsynaptic compartment, a more holistic view of the synapse includes the astrocytes and the extracellular matrix to form a tetrapartite synapse. All these four elements contribute to synapse health and are crucial for synaptic plasticity events and, thereby, for learning and memory processes. Synaptic dysfunction is a common pathogenic trait of several brain disorders. In Alzheimer's Disease, the degeneration of synapses can be detected at the early stages of pathology progression before neuronal degeneration, supporting the hypothesis that synaptic failure is a major determinant of the disease. The synapse is the place where amyloid-β peptides are generated and is the target of the toxic amyloid-β oligomers. All the elements constituting the tetrapartite synapse are altered in Alzheimer's Disease and can synergistically contribute to synaptic dysfunction. Moreover, the two main hallmarks of Alzheimer's Disease, i.e., amyloid-β and tau, act in concert to cause synaptic deficits. Deciphering the mechanisms underlying synaptic dysfunction is relevant for the development of the next-generation therapeutic strategies aimed at modifying the disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pelucchi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Gardoni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Di Luca
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Marcello
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
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Chen ZH, Han YY, Shang YJ, Zhuang SY, Huang JN, Wu BY, Li CH. Cordycepin Ameliorates Synaptic Dysfunction and Dendrite Morphology Damage of Hippocampal CA1 via A1R in Cerebral Ischemia. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 15:783478. [PMID: 35002628 PMCID: PMC8740211 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.783478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Cordycepin exerted significant neuroprotective effects and protected against cerebral ischemic damage. Learning and memory impairments after cerebral ischemia are common. Cordycepin has been proved to improve memory impairments induced by cerebral ischemia, but its underlying mechanism has not been revealed yet. The plasticity of synaptic structure and function is considered to be one of the neural mechanisms of learning and memory. Therefore, we investigated how cordycepin benefits dendritic morphology and synaptic transmission after cerebral ischemia and traced the related molecular mechanisms. The effects of cordycepin on the protection against ischemia were studied by using global cerebral ischemia (GCI) and oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) models. Behavioral long-term potentiation (LTP) and synaptic transmission were observed with electrophysiological recordings. The dendritic morphology and histological assessment were assessed by Golgi staining and hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, respectively. Adenosine A1 receptors (A1R) and adenosine A2A receptors (A2AR) were evaluated with western blotting. The results showed that cordycepin reduced the GCI-induced dendritic morphology scathing and behavioral LTP impairment in the hippocampal CA1 area, improved the learning and memory abilities, and up-regulated the level of A1R but not A2AR. In the in vitro experiments, cordycepin pre-perfusion could alleviate the hippocampal slices injury and synaptic transmission cripple induced by OGD, accompanied by increased adenosine content. In addition, the protective effect of cordycepin on OGD-induced synaptic transmission damage was eliminated by using an A1R antagonist instead of A2AR. These findings revealed that cordycepin alleviated synaptic dysfunction and dendritic injury in ischemic models by modulating A1R, which provides new insights into the pharmacological mechanisms of cordycepin for ameliorating cognitive impairment induced by cerebral ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Hui Chen
- School of Life Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Han
- School of Life Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China.,Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying-Jie Shang
- School of Life Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Si-Yi Zhuang
- School of Life Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun-Ni Huang
- School of Life Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bao-Yan Wu
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science, Institute of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chu-Hua Li
- School of Life Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
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Chen C, Lu J, Peng W, Mak MS, Yang Y, Zhu Z, Wang S, Hou J, Zhou X, Xin W, Hu Y, Tsim KWK, Han Y, Liu Q, Pi R. Acrolein, an endogenous aldehyde induces Alzheimer's disease-like pathologies in mice: A new sporadic AD animal model. Pharmacol Res 2022; 175:106003. [PMID: 34838693 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.106003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disease that mainly affects elderly people. However, the translational research of AD is frustrating, suggesting that the development of new AD animal models is crucial. By gavage administration of acrolein, we constructed a simple sporadic AD animal model which showed classic pathologies of AD in 1 month. The AD-like phenotypes and pathological changes were as followed. 1) olfactory dysfunctions, cognitive impairments and psychological symptoms in C57BL/6 mice; 2) increased levels of Aβ1-42 and Tau phosphorylation (S396/T231) in cortex and hippocampus; 3) astrocytes and microglia proliferation; 4) reduced levels of postsynaptic density 95(PSD95) and Synapsin1, as well as the density of dendritic spines in the CA1 and DG neurons of the hippocampus; 5) high-frequency stimulation failed to induce the long-term potentiation (LTP) in the hippocampus after exposure to acrolein for 4 weeks; 6) decreased blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) signal in the olfactory bulb and induced high T2 signals in the hippocampus, which matched to the clinical observation in the brain of AD patients, and 7) activated RhoA/ROCK2/ p-cofilin-associated pathway in hippocampus of acrolein-treated mice, which may be the causes of synaptic damage and neuroinflammation in acrolein mice model. Taken together, the acrolein-induced sporadic AD mouse model closely reflects the pathological features of AD, which will be useful for the research on the mechanism of AD onset and the development of anti-AD drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Junfeng Lu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Weijia Peng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Marvin Sh Mak
- Division of Life Science and Center for Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; Neurobiology Research Center, School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Zeyu Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Shuyi Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; Neurobiology Research Center, School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Jiawei Hou
- Neurobiology Research Center, School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- Zhongshan school of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Wenjun Xin
- Zhongshan school of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yafang Hu
- Department of Neurology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510014, China
| | - Karl Wah Keung Tsim
- Division of Life Science and Center for Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yifan Han
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Institute of Modern Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qinyu Liu
- The seventh affiliated hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China.
| | - Rongbiao Pi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; International Joint Laboratory (SYSU-PolyU HK) of Novel Anti-Dementia Drugs of Guangzhou, Guangzhou 510006, China; Neurobiology Research Center, School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China.
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67
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Oliver D, Ramachandran S, Philbrook A, Lambert CM, Nguyen KCQ, Hall DH, Francis MM. Kinesin-3 mediated axonal delivery of presynaptic neurexin stabilizes dendritic spines and postsynaptic components. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010016. [PMID: 35089924 PMCID: PMC8827443 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The functional properties of neural circuits are defined by the patterns of synaptic connections between their partnering neurons, but the mechanisms that stabilize circuit connectivity are poorly understood. We systemically examined this question at synapses onto newly characterized dendritic spines of C. elegans GABAergic motor neurons. We show that the presynaptic adhesion protein neurexin/NRX-1 is required for stabilization of postsynaptic structure. We find that early postsynaptic developmental events proceed without a strict requirement for synaptic activity and are not disrupted by deletion of neurexin/nrx-1. However, in the absence of presynaptic NRX-1, dendritic spines and receptor clusters become destabilized and collapse prior to adulthood. We demonstrate that NRX-1 delivery to presynaptic terminals is dependent on kinesin-3/UNC-104 and show that ongoing UNC-104 function is required for postsynaptic maintenance in mature animals. By defining the dynamics and temporal order of synapse formation and maintenance events in vivo, we describe a mechanism for stabilizing mature circuit connectivity through neurexin-based adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devyn Oliver
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Shankar Ramachandran
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Alison Philbrook
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Christopher M. Lambert
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Ken C. Q. Nguyen
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - David H. Hall
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Michael M. Francis
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
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Huber N, Hoffmann D, Giniatullina R, Rostalski H, Leskelä S, Takalo M, Natunen T, Solje E, Remes AM, Giniatullin R, Hiltunen M, Haapasalo A. C9orf72 hexanucleotide repeat expansion leads to altered neuronal and dendritic spine morphology and synaptic dysfunction. Neurobiol Dis 2021; 162:105584. [PMID: 34915153 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2021.105584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) comprises a heterogenous group of progressive neurodegenerative syndromes. To date, no validated biomarkers or effective disease-modifying therapies exist for the different clinical or genetic subtypes of FTLD. The most common genetic cause underlying FTLD and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a hexanucleotide repeat expansion in the C9orf72 gene (C9-HRE). FTLD is accompanied by changes in several neurotransmitter systems, including the glutamatergic, GABAergic, dopaminergic, and serotonergic systems and many clinical symptoms can be explained by disturbances in these systems. Here, we aimed to elucidate the effects of the C9-HRE on synaptic function, molecular composition of synapses, and dendritic spine morphology. We overexpressed the pathological C9-HRE in cultured E18 mouse primary hippocampal neurons and characterized the pathological, morphological, and functional changes by biochemical methods, confocal microscopy, and live cell calcium imaging. The C9-HRE-expressing neurons were confirmed to display the pathological RNA foci and DPR proteins. C9-HRE expression led to significant changes in dendritic spine morphologies, as indicated by decreased number of mushroom-type spines and increased number of stubby and thin spines, as well as diminished neuronal branching. These morphological changes were accompanied by concomitantly enhanced susceptibility of the neurons to glutamate-induced excitotoxicity as well as augmented and prolonged responses to excitatory stimuli by glutamate and depolarizing potassium chloride as compared to control neurons. Mechanistically, the hyperexcitation phenotype in the C9-HRE-expressing neurons was found to be underlain by increased activity of extrasynaptic GluN2B-containing N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. Our results are in accordance with the idea suggesting that C9-HRE is associated with enhanced excitotoxicity and synaptic dysfunction. Thus, therapeutic interventions targeted to alleviate synaptic disturbances might offer efficient avenues for the treatment of patients with C9-HRE-associated FTLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Huber
- Molecular Neurodegeneration group, A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Neulaniementie 2, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Dorit Hoffmann
- Molecular Neurodegeneration group, A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Neulaniementie 2, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Raisa Giniatullina
- Molecular Pain Research group, A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Neulaniementie 2, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Hannah Rostalski
- Molecular Neurodegeneration group, A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Neulaniementie 2, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Stina Leskelä
- Molecular Neurodegeneration group, A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Neulaniementie 2, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Mari Takalo
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1E, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Teemu Natunen
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1E, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Eino Solje
- Institute of Clinical Medicine - Neurology, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1 C, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; Neuro Center, Neurology, Kuopio University Hospital, P. O. Box 100, FI-70029 KYS, Finland.
| | - Anne M Remes
- Medical Research Center, Oulu University Hospital, P. O. Box 8000, FI-90014 University of Oulu, Finland; Unit of Clinical Neuroscience, Neurology, University of Oulu, P. O. Box 8000, FI-90014 University of Oulu, Finland.
| | - Rashid Giniatullin
- Molecular Pain Research group, A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Neulaniementie 2, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Mikko Hiltunen
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1E, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Annakaisa Haapasalo
- Molecular Neurodegeneration group, A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Neulaniementie 2, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
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Beating Pain with Psychedelics: Matter over Mind? Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 134:104482. [PMID: 34922987 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Basic pain research has shed light on key cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying nociceptive and phenomenological aspects of pain. Despite these advances, [[we still yearn for] the discovery of novel therapeutic strategies to address the unmet needs of about 70% of chronic neuropathic pain patients whose pain fails to respond to opioids as well as to other conventional analgesic agents. Importantly, a substantial body of clinical observations over the past decade cumulatively suggests that the psychedelic class of drugs may possess heuristic value for understanding and treating chronic pain conditions. The present review presents a theoretical framework for hitherto insufficiently understood neuroscience-based mechanisms of psychedelics' potential analgesic effects. To that end, searches of PubMed-indexed journals were performed using the following Medical Subject Headings' terms: pain, analgesia, inflammatory, brain connectivity, ketamine, psilocybin, functional imaging, and dendrites. Recursive sets of scientific and clinical evidence extracted from this literature review were summarized within the following key areas: (1) studies employing psychedelics for alleviation of physical and emotional pain; (2) potential neuro-restorative effects of psychedelics to remediate the impaired connectivity underlying the dissociation between pain-related conscious states/cognitions and the subcortical activity/function leading to the eventual chronicity through immediate and long-term effects on dentritic plasticity; (3) anti-neuroinflammatory and pro-immunomodulatory actions of psychedelics as the may pertain to the role of these factors in the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain; (4) safety, legal, and ethical consideration inherent in psychedelics' pharmacotherapy. In addition to direct beneficial effects in terms of reduction of pain and suffering, psychedelics' inclusion in the analgesic armamentarium will contribute to deeper and more sophisticated insights not only into pain syndromes but also into frequently comorbid psychiatric condition associated with emotional pain, e.g., depressive and anxiety disorders. Further inquiry is clearly warranted into the above areas that have potential to evolve into further elucidate the mechanisms of chronic pain and affective disorders, and lead to the development of innovative, safe, and more efficacious neurobiologically-based therapeutic approaches.
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Mahalakshmi AM, Ray B, Tuladhar S, Hediyal TA, Raj P, Rathipriya AG, Qoronfleh MW, Essa MM, Chidambaram SB. Impact of Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Modulators on Dendritic Spines Structure and Functions in Brain. Cells 2021; 10:3405. [PMID: 34943913 PMCID: PMC8699406 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic spines are small, thin, hair-like protrusions found on the dendritic processes of neurons. They serve as independent compartments providing large amplitudes of Ca2+ signals to achieve synaptic plasticity, provide sites for newer synapses, facilitate learning and memory. One of the common and severe complication of neurodegenerative disease is cognitive impairment, which is said to be closely associated with spine pathologies viz., decreased in spine density, spine length, spine volume, spine size etc. Many treatments targeting neurological diseases have shown to improve the spine structure and distribution. However, concise data on the various modulators of dendritic spines are imperative and a need of the hour. Hence, in this review we made an attempt to consolidate the effects of various pharmacological (cholinergic, glutamatergic, GABAergic, serotonergic, adrenergic, and dopaminergic agents) and non-pharmacological modulators (dietary interventions, enriched environment, yoga and meditation) on dendritic spines structure and functions. These data suggest that both the pharmacological and non-pharmacological modulators produced significant improvement in dendritic spine structure and functions and in turn reversing the pathologies underlying neurodegeneration. Intriguingly, the non-pharmacological approaches have shown to improve intellectual performances both in preclinical and clinical platforms, but still more technology-based evidence needs to be studied. Thus, we conclude that a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological intervention may restore cognitive performance synergistically via improving dendritic spine number and functions in various neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arehally M. Mahalakshmi
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India; (A.M.M.); (B.R.); (S.T.); (T.A.H.); (P.R.)
- SIG-Brain, Behaviour and Cognitive Neurosciences Research (BBRC), JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India
| | - Bipul Ray
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India; (A.M.M.); (B.R.); (S.T.); (T.A.H.); (P.R.)
- Centre for Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Central Animal Facility, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India
| | - Sunanda Tuladhar
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India; (A.M.M.); (B.R.); (S.T.); (T.A.H.); (P.R.)
- Centre for Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Central Animal Facility, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India
| | - Tousif Ahmed Hediyal
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India; (A.M.M.); (B.R.); (S.T.); (T.A.H.); (P.R.)
- Centre for Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Central Animal Facility, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India
| | - Praveen Raj
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India; (A.M.M.); (B.R.); (S.T.); (T.A.H.); (P.R.)
| | | | - M. Walid Qoronfleh
- Q3CG Research Institute (QRI), Research and Policy Division, 7227 Rachel Drive, Ypsilanti, MI 48917, USA;
| | - Musthafa Mohamed Essa
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, CAMS, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat 123, Oman
- Ageing and Dementia Research Group, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat 123, Oman
- Biomedical Sciences Department, University of Pacific, Sacramento, CA 95211, USA
| | - Saravana Babu Chidambaram
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India; (A.M.M.); (B.R.); (S.T.); (T.A.H.); (P.R.)
- SIG-Brain, Behaviour and Cognitive Neurosciences Research (BBRC), JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India
- Centre for Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Central Animal Facility, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India
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Frye HE, Izumi Y, Harris AN, Williams SB, Trousdale CR, Sun MY, Sauerbeck AD, Kummer TT, Mennerick S, Zorumski CF, Nelson EC, Dougherty JD, Morón JA. Sex Differences in the Role of CNIH3 on Spatial Memory and Synaptic Plasticity. Biol Psychiatry 2021; 90:766-780. [PMID: 34548146 PMCID: PMC8571071 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2021.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CNIH3 is an AMPA receptor (AMPAR) auxiliary protein prominently expressed in the dorsal hippocampus (dHPC), a region that plays a critical role in spatial memory and synaptic plasticity. However, the effects of CNIH3 on AMPAR-dependent synaptic function and behavior have not been investigated. METHODS We assessed a gain-of-function model of Cnih3 overexpression in the dHPC and generated and characterized a line of Cnih3-/- C57BL/6 mice. We assessed spatial memory through behavioral assays, protein levels of AMPAR subunits and synaptic proteins by immunoblotting, and long-term potentiation in electrophysiological recordings. We also utilized a super-resolution imaging workflow, SEQUIN (Synaptic Evaluation and Quantification by Imaging of Nanostructure), for analysis of nanoscale synaptic connectivity in the dHPC. RESULTS Overexpression of Cnih3 in the dHPC improved short-term spatial memory in female mice but not in male mice. Cnih3-/- female mice exhibited weakened short-term spatial memory, reduced dHPC synapse density, enhanced expression of calcium-impermeable AMPAR (GluA2-containing) subunits in synaptosomes, and attenuated long-term potentiation maintenance compared with Cnih3+/+ control mice; Cnih3-/- males were unaffected. Further investigation revealed that deficiencies in spatial memory and changes in AMPAR composition and synaptic plasticity were most pronounced during the metestrus phase of the estrous cycle in female Cnih3-/- mice. CONCLUSIONS This study identified a novel effect of sex and estrous on CNIH3's role in spatial memory and synaptic plasticity. Manipulation of CNIH3 unmasked sexually dimorphic effects on spatial memory, synaptic function, AMPAR composition, and hippocampal plasticity. These findings reinforce the importance of considering sex as a biological variable in studies of memory and hippocampal synaptic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah E Frye
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; Program in Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Yukitoshi Izumi
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; Taylor Family Institute for Innovative Psychiatric Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Alexis N Harris
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Sidney B Williams
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Christopher R Trousdale
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Min-Yu Sun
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Andrew D Sauerbeck
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Terrance T Kummer
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Steven Mennerick
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; Taylor Family Institute for Innovative Psychiatric Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Charles F Zorumski
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; Taylor Family Institute for Innovative Psychiatric Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Elliot C Nelson
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Joseph D Dougherty
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Jose A Morón
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri.
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72
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Loss of O-GlcNAcylation on MeCP2 at Threonine 203 Leads to Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Neurosci Bull 2021; 38:113-134. [PMID: 34773221 PMCID: PMC8821740 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-021-00784-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations of the X-linked methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene in humans are responsible for most cases of Rett syndrome (RTT), an X-linked progressive neurological disorder. While genome-wide screens in clinical trials have revealed several putative RTT-associated mutations in MECP2, their causal relevance regarding the functional regulation of MeCP2 at the etiologic sites at the protein level requires more evidence. In this study, we demonstrated that MeCP2 was dynamically modified by O-linked-β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) at threonine 203 (T203), an etiologic site in RTT patients. Disruption of the O-GlcNAcylation of MeCP2 specifically at T203 impaired dendrite development and spine maturation in cultured hippocampal neurons, and disrupted neuronal migration, dendritic spine morphogenesis, and caused dysfunction of synaptic transmission in the developing and juvenile mouse cerebral cortex. Mechanistically, genetic disruption of O-GlcNAcylation at T203 on MeCP2 decreased the neuronal activity-induced induction of Bdnf transcription. Our study highlights the critical role of MeCP2 T203 O-GlcNAcylation in neural development and synaptic transmission potentially via brain-derived neurotrophic factor.
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73
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The glutamatergic synapse: a complex machinery for information processing. Cogn Neurodyn 2021; 15:757-781. [PMID: 34603541 DOI: 10.1007/s11571-021-09679-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Being the most abundant synaptic type, the glutamatergic synapse is responsible for the larger part of the brain's information processing. Despite the conceptual simplicity of the basic mechanism of synaptic transmission, the glutamatergic synapse shows a large variation in the response to the presynaptic release of the neurotransmitter. This variability is observed not only among different synapses but also in the same single synapse. The synaptic response variability is due to several mechanisms of control of the information transferred among the neurons and suggests that the glutamatergic synapse is not a simple bridge for the transfer of information but plays an important role in its elaboration and management. The control of the synaptic information is operated at pre, post, and extrasynaptic sites in a sort of cooperation between the pre and postsynaptic neurons which also involves the activity of other neurons. The interaction between the different mechanisms of control is extremely complicated and its complete functionality is far from being fully understood. The present review, although not exhaustively, is intended to outline the most important of these mechanisms and their complexity, the understanding of which will be among the most intriguing challenges of future neuroscience.
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74
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Zhou X, Chen Y, Peng J, Zuo M, Sun Y. Deafening-induced rapid changes to spine synaptic connectivity in the adult avian vocal basal ganglia. Integr Zool 2021; 17:1136-1146. [PMID: 34599554 DOI: 10.1111/1749-4877.12593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The basal ganglia have been implicated in auditory-dependent vocal learning and plasticity in human and songbirds, but the underlying neural phenotype remains to be clarified. Here, using confocal imaging and three-dimensional electron microscopy, we investigated striatal structural plasticity in response to hearing loss in Area X, the avian vocal basal ganglia, in adult male zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata). We observed a rapid elongation of dendritic spines, by approximately 13%, by day 3 after deafening, and a considerable increase in spine synapse density, by approximately 61%, by day 14 after deafening, compared with the controls with an intact cochlea. These findings reveal structural sensitivity of Area X to auditory deprivation and suggest that this striatal plasticity might contribute to deafening-induced changes to learned vocal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojuan Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, College of Life Sciences, Bejiing Normal University, Beijing, China.,Chinese Institute for Brain Research (CIBR), Beijing, China
| | - Yalan Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, College of Life Sciences, Bejiing Normal University, Beijing, China.,Technology Center for Protein Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jikan Peng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, College of Life Sciences, Bejiing Normal University, Beijing, China.,School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mingxue Zuo
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, College of Life Sciences, Bejiing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingyu Sun
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, College of Life Sciences, Bejiing Normal University, Beijing, China
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Kim SM, Zhang S, Park J, Sung HJ, Tran TDT, Chung C, Han IO. REM Sleep Deprivation Impairs Learning and Memory by Decreasing Brain O-GlcNAc Cycling in Mouse. Neurotherapeutics 2021; 18:2504-2517. [PMID: 34312767 PMCID: PMC8804064 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-021-01094-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep is implicated learning and memory (L/M) functions and hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP). Here, we demonstrate that REM sleep deprivation (REMSD)-induced impairment of contextual fear memory in mouse is linked to a reduction in hexosamine biosynthetic pathway (HBP)/O-GlcNAc flux in mouse brain. In mice exposed to REMSD, O-GlcNAcylation, and O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) were downregulated while O-GlcNAcase was upregulated compared to control mouse brain. Foot shock fear conditioning (FC) induced activation of protein kinase A (PKA) and cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), which were significantly inhibited in brains of the REMSD group. Intriguingly, REMSD-induced defects in L/M functions and FC-induced PKA/CREB activation were restored upon increasing O-GlcNAc cycling with glucosamine (GlcN) or Thiamet G. Furthermore, Thiamet G restored the REMSD-induced decrease in dendritic spine density. Suppression of O-GlcNAcylation by the glutamine fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase (GFAT) inhibitor, 6-diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine (DON), or OGT inhibitor, OSMI-1, impaired memory function, and inhibited FC-induced PKA/CREB activation. DON additionally reduced the amplitude of baseline field excitatory postsynaptic potential (fEPSP) and magnitude of long-term potentiation (LTP) in normal mouse hippocampal slices. To our knowledge, this is the first study to provide comprehensive evidence of dynamic O-GlcNAcylation changes during the L/M process in mice and defects in this pathway in the brain of REM sleep-deprived mice. Our collective results highlight HBP/O-GlcNAc cycling as a novel molecular link between sleep and cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang-Min Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Program in Biomedical Science and Engineering, College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, Korea
| | - Seungjae Zhang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jiwon Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, Program in Biomedical Science and Engineering, College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, Korea
| | - Hyun Jae Sung
- Department of Biomedical Science, Program in Biomedical Science and Engineering, College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, Korea
| | - Thuy-Duong Thi Tran
- Department of Biomedical Science, Program in Biomedical Science and Engineering, College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, Korea
| | - ChiHye Chung
- Department of Biological Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Inn-Oc Han
- Department of Biomedical Science, Program in Biomedical Science and Engineering, College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, Korea.
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Liu X, Ying J, Wang X, Zheng Q, Zhao T, Yoon S, Yu W, Yang D, Fang Y, Hua F. Astrocytes in Neural Circuits: Key Factors in Synaptic Regulation and Potential Targets for Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:729273. [PMID: 34658786 PMCID: PMC8515196 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.729273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are the major glial cells in the brain, which play a supporting role in the energy and nutritional supply of neurons. They were initially regarded as passive space-filling cells, but the latest progress in the study of the development and function of astrocytes highlights their active roles in regulating synaptic transmission, formation, and plasticity. In the concept of "tripartite synapse," the bidirectional influence between astrocytes and neurons, in addition to their steady-state and supporting function, suggests that any negative changes in the structure or function of astrocytes will affect the activity of neurons, leading to neurodevelopmental disorders. The role of astrocytes in the pathophysiology of various neurological and psychiatric disorders caused by synaptic defects is increasingly appreciated. Understanding the roles of astrocytes in regulating synaptic development and the plasticity of neural circuits could help provide new treatments for these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Jun Ying
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Xifeng Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Qingcui Zheng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Tiancheng Zhao
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Sungtae Yoon
- Helping Minds International Charitable Foundation, New York, NY, United States
| | - Wen Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Danying Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Yang Fang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Fuzhou Hua
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
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77
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Sexual Experience Induces the Expression of Gastrin-Releasing Peptide and Oxytocin Receptors in the Spinal Ejaculation Generator in Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910362. [PMID: 34638701 PMCID: PMC8508609 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Male sexual function in mammals is controlled by the brain neural circuits and the spinal cord centers located in the lamina X of the lumbar spinal cord (L3–L4). Recently, we reported that hypothalamic oxytocin neurons project to the lumbar spinal cord to activate the neurons located in the dorsal lamina X of the lumbar spinal cord (dXL) via oxytocin receptors, thereby facilitating male sexual activity. Sexual experiences can influence male sexual activity in rats. However, how this experience affects the brain–spinal cord neural circuits underlying male sexual activity remains unknown. Focusing on dXL neurons that are innervated by hypothalamic oxytocinergic neurons controlling male sexual function, we examined whether sexual experience affects such neural circuits. We found that >50% of dXL neurons were activated in the first ejaculation group and ~30% in the control and intromission groups in sexually naïve males. In contrast, in sexually experienced males, ~50% of dXL neurons were activated in both the intromission and ejaculation groups, compared to ~30% in the control group. Furthermore, sexual experience induced expressions of gastrin-releasing peptide and oxytocin receptors in the lumbar spinal cord. This is the first demonstration of the effects of sexual experience on molecular expressions in the neural circuits controlling male sexual activity in the spinal cord.
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78
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Bello-Medina PC, González-Franco DA, Vargas-Rodríguez I, Díaz-Cintra S. Oxidative stress, the immune response, synaptic plasticity, and cognition in transgenic models of Alzheimer disease. NEUROLOGÍA (ENGLISH EDITION) 2021; 37:682-690. [PMID: 34509401 DOI: 10.1016/j.nrleng.2019.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Worldwide, approximately 50 million people have dementia, with Alzheimer disease (AD) being the most common type, accounting for 60%-70% of cases. Given its high incidence, it is imperative to design studies to expand our knowledge about its onset and development, and to develop early diagnosis strategies and/or possible treatments. One methodological strategy is the use of transgenic mouse models for the study of the factors involved in AD aetiology, which include oxidative stress and the immune response. DEVELOPMENT We searched the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases for original articles and reviews published between 2013 and 2019. In this review, we address 2 factors that have been studied independently, oxidative stress and the immune response, in transgenic models of AD, and discuss the relationship between these factors and their impact on the loss of synaptic and structural plasticity, resulting in cognitive impairment. CONCLUSION This review describes possible mechanisms by which oxidative stress and the immune response participate in the molecular, cellular, and behavioural effects of AD, observing a close relationship between these factors, which lead to cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C Bello-Medina
- Departamento de Neurobiología del Desarrollo y Neurofisiología, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - D A González-Franco
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Latina de México, Celaya, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - I Vargas-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Neurobiología del Desarrollo y Neurofisiología, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - S Díaz-Cintra
- Departamento de Neurobiología del Desarrollo y Neurofisiología, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico.
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Xu H, Yu ZH, Ge MJ, Shen JX, Han F, Pan C, Chen JJ, Zhu XL, Hou WY, Hou YQ, Lu YP. Estradiol attenuates chronic restraint stress-induced dendrite and dendritic spine loss and cofilin1 activation in ovariectomized mice. Horm Behav 2021; 135:105040. [PMID: 34358948 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2021.105040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian hormone deprivation is associated with mood disorders, such as depression, and estradiol therapy is significantly more effective than placebos in treating major depression associated with menopause onset. However, the effect of estradiol on neuronal plasticity and its mechanisms remain to be further elucidated. In this study, behavioral assessments were used to examine the antidepressant effect of estradiol in ovariectomized (OVX) B6.Cg-TgN (Thy-YFP-H)-2Jrs transgenic mice on chronic restraint stress (CRS)-induced dendrite and dendritic spine loss; Yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) is characteristically expressed in excitatory neurons in transgenic mice, and its three-dimensional images were used to evaluate the effect of estradiol on the density of different types of dendritic spines. Quantification and distribution of cofilin1 and p-cofilin1 were determined by qPCR, Western blots, and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The results revealed that treatment with estradiol or clomipramine significantly improved depression-like behaviors. Estradiol treatment also significantly upregulated the dendritic density in all areas examined and increased the density of filopodia-type, thin-type and mushroom-type spines in the hippocampal CA1 and elevated the thin-type and mushroom-type spine density in the PFC. Consistent with these changes, estradiol treatment significantly increased the density of p-cofilin1 immunopositive dendritic spines. Thus, these data reveal a possible estradiol antidepressant mechanism, in that estradiol promoted the phosphorylation of cofilin1 and reduced the loss of dendrites and dendritic spines, which of these dendritic spines include not only immature spines such as filopodia-type, but also mature spines such as mushroom-type, and attenuated the depression-like behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Xu
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, No. 1 Beijing East Road, Wuhu 241000, China; Anhui College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 18 Wuxiashan West Road, Wuhu 241002, China
| | - Zong-Hao Yu
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, No. 1 Beijing East Road, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Ming-Jun Ge
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, No. 1 Beijing East Road, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Jun-Xian Shen
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, No. 1 Beijing East Road, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Fei Han
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, No. 1 Beijing East Road, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Chuan Pan
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, No. 1 Beijing East Road, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Jing-Jing Chen
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, No. 1 Beijing East Road, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Xiu-Ling Zhu
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, No. 1 Beijing East Road, Wuhu 241000, China; Department of Anatomy, Wannan Medical College, No. 22 Wenchang West Road, Wuhu 241002, China
| | - Wen-Yu Hou
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, No. 1 Beijing East Road, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Yu-Qiao Hou
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, No. 1 Beijing East Road, Wuhu 241000, China
| | - Ya-Ping Lu
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, No. 1 Beijing East Road, Wuhu 241000, China.
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Hippocampal overexpression of NOS1AP promotes endophenotypes related to mental disorders. EBioMedicine 2021; 71:103565. [PMID: 34455393 PMCID: PMC8403735 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nitric oxide synthase 1 adaptor protein (NOS1AP; previously named CAPON) is linked to the glutamatergic postsynaptic density through interaction with neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). NOS1AP and its interaction with nNOS have been associated with several mental disorders. Despite the high levels of NOS1AP expression in the hippocampus and the relevance of this brain region in glutamatergic signalling as well as mental disorders, a potential role of hippocampal NOS1AP in the pathophysiology of these disorders has not been investigated yet. METHODS To uncover the function of NOS1AP in hippocampus, we made use of recombinant adeno-associated viruses to overexpress murine full-length NOS1AP or the NOS1AP carboxyterminus in the hippocampus of mice. We investigated these mice for changes in gene expression, neuronal morphology, and relevant behavioural phenotypes. FINDINGS We found that hippocampal overexpression of NOS1AP markedly increased the interaction of nNOS with PSD-95, reduced dendritic spine density, and changed dendritic spine morphology at CA1 synapses. At the behavioural level, we observed an impairment in social memory and decreased spatial working memory capacity. INTERPRETATION Our data provide a mechanistic explanation for a highly selective and specific contribution of hippocampal NOS1AP and its interaction with the glutamatergic postsynaptic density to cross-disorder pathophysiology. Our findings allude to therapeutic relevance due to the druggability of this molecule. FUNDING This study was funded in part by the DFG, the BMBF, the Academy of Finland, the NIH, the Japanese Society of Clinical Neuropsychopharmacology, the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation, and the European Community.
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Sun Y, Smirnov M, Kamasawa N, Yasuda R. Rapid Ultrastructural Changes in the PSD and Surrounding Membrane after Induction of Structural LTP in Single Dendritic Spines. J Neurosci 2021; 41:7003-7014. [PMID: 34266899 PMCID: PMC8372018 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1964-20.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The structural plasticity of dendritic spines is considered to be an important basis of synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. Here, we induced input-specific structural LTP (sLTP) in single dendritic spines in organotypic hippocampal slices from mice of either sex and performed ultrastructural analyses of the spines using efficient correlative light and electron microscopy. We observed reorganization of the PSD nanostructure, such as perforation and segmentation, at 2-3, 20, and 120 min after sLTP induction. In addition, PSD and nonsynaptic axon-spine interface (nsASI) membrane expanded unevenly during sLTP. Specifically, the PSD area showed a transient increase at 2-3 min after sLTP induction. The PSD growth was to a degree less than spine volume growth at 2-3 min and 20 min after sLTP induction but became similar at 120 min. On the other hand, the nsASI area showed a profound and lasting expansion, to a degree similar to spine volume growth throughout the process. These rapid ultrastructural changes in PSD and surrounding membrane may contribute to rapid electrophysiological plasticity during sLTP.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT To understand the ultrastructural changes during synaptic plasticity, it is desired to efficiently image single dendritic spines that underwent structural plasticity in electron microscopy. We induced structural long-term potentiation (sLTP) in single dendritic spines by two-photon glutamate uncaging. We then identified the same spines at different phases of sLTP and performed ultrastructural analysis by using an efficient correlative light and electron microscopy method. We found that postsynaptic density undergoes dramatic modification in its structural complexity immediately after sLTP induction. Meanwhile, the nonsynaptic axon-spine interface area shows a rapid and sustained increase throughout sLTP. Our results indicate that the uneven modification of synaptic and nonsynaptic postsynaptic membrane might contribute to rapid electrophysiological plasticity during sLTP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Sun
- Neuronal Signal Transduction Group, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, Florida 33458
- Integrative Biology and Neuroscience Graduate Program, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida 33458
- International Max Planck Research School for Brain and Behavior, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, Florida 33458
| | - Michael Smirnov
- Neuronal Signal Transduction Group, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, Florida 33458
| | - Naomi Kamasawa
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, Florida 33458
- International Max Planck Research School for Brain and Behavior, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, Florida 33458
| | - Ryohei Yasuda
- Neuronal Signal Transduction Group, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, Florida 33458
- Integrative Biology and Neuroscience Graduate Program, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, Florida 33458
- International Max Planck Research School for Brain and Behavior, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, Florida 33458
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Xie R, Wang Z, Liu T, Xiao R, Lv K, Wu C, Luo Y, Cai Y, Fan X. AAV Delivery of shRNA Against TRPC6 in Mouse Hippocampus Impairs Cognitive Function. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:688655. [PMID: 34327201 PMCID: PMC8313999 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.688655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Transient Receptor Potential Canonical 6 (TRPC6) has been suggested to be involved in synapse function and contribute to hippocampal-dependent cognitive processes. Gene silencing of TRPC6 was performed by injecting adeno-associated virus (AAV) expressing TRPC6-specific shRNA (shRNA-TRPC6) into the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG). Spatial learning, working memory and social recognition memory were impaired in the shRNA-TRPC6 treated mice compared to control mice after 4 weeks. In addition, gene ontology (GO) analysis of RNA-sequencing revealed that viral intervention of TRPC6 expression in DG resulted in the enrichment of the process of synaptic transmission and cellular compartment of synaptic structure. KEGG analysis showed PI3K-Akt signaling pathway were significantly down-regulated. Furthermore, the shRNA-TRPC6 treatment reduced dendritic spines of DG granule neurons, in terms of spine loss, the thin and mushroom types predominated. Accompanying the spine loss, the levels of PSD95, pAkt and CREB in the hippocampus were decreased in the shRNA-TRPC6 treated animals. Taken together, our results suggest that knocking down TRPC6 in the DG have a disadvantageous effect on cognitive processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruxin Xie
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Zhongke Wang
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Tianyao Liu
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Rui Xiao
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Keyi Lv
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Chuan Wu
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Luo
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Yun Cai
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaotang Fan
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
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83
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Seewald A, Schönherr S, Hörtnagl H, Ehrlich I, Schmuckermair C, Ferraguti F. Fear Memory Retrieval Is Associated With a Reduction in AMPA Receptor Density at Thalamic to Amygdala Intercalated Cell Synapses. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2021; 13:634558. [PMID: 34295235 PMCID: PMC8290482 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2021.634558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The amygdala plays a crucial role in attaching emotional significance to environmental cues. Its intercalated cell masses (ITC) are tight clusters of GABAergic neurons, which are distributed around the basolateral amygdala complex. Distinct ITC clusters are involved in the acquisition and extinction of conditioned fear responses. Previously, we have shown that fear memory retrieval reduces the AMPA/NMDA ratio at thalamic afferents to ITC neurons within the dorsal medio-paracapsular cluster. Here, we investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the fear-mediated reduction in the AMPA/NMDA ratio at these synapses and, in particular, whether specific changes in the synaptic density of AMPA receptors underlie the observed change. To this aim, we used a detergent-digested freeze-fracture replica immunolabeling technique (FRIL) approach that enables to visualize the spatial distribution of intrasynaptic AMPA receptors at high resolution. AMPA receptors were detected using an antibody raised against an epitope common to all AMPA subunits. To visualize thalamic inputs, we virally transduced the posterior thalamic complex with Channelrhodopsin 2-YFP, which is anterogradely transported along axons. Using face-matched replica, we confirmed that the postsynaptic elements were ITC neurons due to their prominent expression of μ-opioid receptors. With this approach, we show that, following auditory fear conditioning in mice, the formation and retrieval of fear memory is linked to a significant reduction in the density of AMPA receptors, particularly at spine synapses formed by inputs of the posterior intralaminar thalamic and medial geniculate nuclei onto identified ITC neurons. Our study is one of the few that has directly linked the regulation of AMPA receptor trafficking to memory processes in identified neuronal networks, by showing that fear-memory induced reduction in AMPA/NMDA ratio at thalamic-ITC synapses is associated with a reduced postsynaptic AMPA receptor density.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Seewald
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sabine Schönherr
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Heide Hörtnagl
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ingrid Ehrlich
- Center for Integrative Neuroscience, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Department of Neurobiology, Institute of Biomaterials and Biomolecular Systems, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | | | - Francesco Ferraguti
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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84
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Dendrites of Neocortical Pyramidal Neurons: The Key to Understand Intellectual Disability. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2021; 42:147-153. [PMID: 34216332 PMCID: PMC8732981 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-021-01123-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Pyramidal neurons (PNs) are the most abundant cells of the neocortex and display a vast dendritic tree, divided into basal and apical compartments. Morphological and functional anomalies of PN dendrites are at the basis of virtually all neurological and mental disorders, including intellectual disability. Here, we provide evidence that the cognitive deficits observed in different types of intellectual disability might be sustained by different parts of the PN dendritic tree, or by a dysregulation of their interaction.
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85
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Bancelin S, Mercier L, Murana E, Nägerl UV. Aberration correction in stimulated emission depletion microscopy to increase imaging depth in living brain tissue. NEUROPHOTONICS 2021; 8:035001. [PMID: 34136589 PMCID: PMC8200361 DOI: 10.1117/1.nph.8.3.035001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Significance: Stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy enables nanoscale imaging of live samples, but it requires a specific spatial beam shaping that is highly sensitive to optical aberrations, limiting its depth penetration. Therefore, there is a need for methods to reduce optical aberrations and improve the spatial resolution of STED microscopy inside thick biological tissue. Aim: The aim of our work was to develop and validate a method based on adaptive optics to achieve an a priori correction of spherical aberrations as a function of imaging depth. Approach: We first measured the aberrations in a phantom sample of gold and fluorescent nanoparticles suspended in an agarose gel with a refractive index closely matching living brain tissue. We then used a spatial light modulator to apply corrective phase shifts and validate this calibration approach by imaging neurons in living brain slices. Results: After quantifying the spatial resolution in depth in phantom samples, we demonstrated that the corrections can substantially increase image quality in living brain slices. Specifically, we could measure structures as small as 80 nm at a depth of 90 μ m inside the biological tissue and obtain a 60% signal increase after correction. Conclusion: We propose a simple and robust approach to calibrate and compensate the distortions of the STED beam profile introduced by spherical aberrations with increasing imaging depth and demonstrated that this method offers significant improvements in microscopy performance for nanoscale cellular imaging in live tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane Bancelin
- University of Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience, UMR 5297, Bordeaux, France
| | - Luc Mercier
- University of Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience, UMR 5297, Bordeaux, France
| | - Emanuele Murana
- University of Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience, UMR 5297, Bordeaux, France
| | - U. Valentin Nägerl
- University of Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience, UMR 5297, Bordeaux, France
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86
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Dyer MS, Woodhouse A, Blizzard CA. Cytoplasmic Human TDP-43 Mislocalization Induces Widespread Dendritic Spine Loss in Mouse Upper Motor Neurons. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11070883. [PMID: 34209287 PMCID: PMC8301870 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11070883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is defined by the destruction of upper- and lower motor neurons. Post-mortem, nearly all ALS cases are positive for cytoplasmic aggregates containing the DNA/RNA binding protein TDP-43. Recent studies indicate that this pathogenic mislocalization of TDP-43 may participate in generating hyperexcitability of the upper motor neurons, the earliest detectable change in ALS patients, yet the mechanisms driving this remain unclear. We investigated how mislocalisation of TDP-43 could initiate network dysfunction in ALS. We employed a tetracycline inducible system to express either human wildtype TDP-43 (TDP-43WT) or human TDP-43 that cannot enter the nucleus (TDP-43ΔNLS) in excitatory neurons (Camk2α promoter), crossed Thy1-YFPH mice to visualize dendritic spines, the major site of excitatory synapses. In comparison to both TDP-43WT and controls, TDP-43ΔNLS drove a robust loss in spine density in all the dendrite regions of the upper motor neurons, most affecting thin spines. This indicates that TDP-43 is involved in the generation of network dysfunction in ALS likely through impacting the formation or durability of excitatory synapses. These findings are relevant to the vast majority of ALS cases, and provides further evidence that upper motor neurons may need to be protected from TDP-43 mediated synaptic excitatory changes early in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus S. Dyer
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia;
| | - Adele Woodhouse
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, College Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia;
| | - Catherine A. Blizzard
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia;
- Correspondence:
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87
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Bright light exposure induces dynamic changes of spatial memory in nocturnal rodents. Brain Res Bull 2021; 174:389-399. [PMID: 34197939 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2021.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Bright light has been reported to improve spatial memory of diurnal rodents, yet how it will influence the spatial memory of nocturnal rodents is unknown. Here, we found that dynamic changes in spatial memory and anxiety were induced at different time point after bright light treatment. Mice maintained in brighter light exhibited impaired memory in Y maze at one day after bright light exposure, but showed significantly improved spatial memory in the Y maze and Morris water maze at four weeks after bright light exposure. We also found increased anxiety one day after bright light exposure, which could be the reason of impaired memory. However, no change of anxiety was detected after four weeks. Thus, we further explore the underlying mechanism of the beneficial effects of long term bright light on spatial memory. Golgi staining indicated that the structure of dendritic spines changed, accompanied by increased expression of synaptophysin and postsynaptic density 95 in the hippocampus. Further research has found that bright light treatment leads to elevated CaMKII/CREB phosphorylation levels in the hippocampus, which are associated with synaptic function. Moreover, higher expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was followed by increased phosphorylated TrkB levels in the hippocampus, indicating that BDNF/TrkB signaling is also activated during this process. Taken together, these findings revealed that bright light exposure with different duration exert different effects on spatial memory in nocturnal rodents, and the potential molecular mechanism by which long term bright light regulates spatial memory was also demonstrated.
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88
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Ma J, Gao Y, Tang W, Huang W, Tang Y. Fluoxetine Protects against Dendritic Spine Loss in Middle-aged APPswe/PSEN1dE9 Double Transgenic Alzheimer's Disease Mice. Curr Alzheimer Res 2021; 17:93-103. [PMID: 32053075 DOI: 10.2174/1567205017666200213095419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have suggested that cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with dendritic spine loss, especially in the hippocampus. Fluoxetine (FLX) has been shown to improve cognition in the early stage of AD and to be associated with diminishing synapse degeneration in the hippocampus. However, little is known about whether FLX affects the pathogenesis of AD in the middle-tolate stage and whether its effects are correlated with the amelioration of hippocampal dendritic dysfunction. Previously, it has been observed that FLX improves the spatial learning ability of middleaged APP/PS1 mice. OBJECTIVE In the present study, we further characterized the impact of FLX on dendritic spines in the hippocampus of middle-aged APP/PS1 mice. RESULTS It has been found that the numbers of dendritic spines in dentate gyrus (DG), CA1 and CA2/3 of hippocampus were significantly increased by FLX. Meanwhile, FLX effectively attenuated hyperphosphorylation of tau at Ser396 and elevated protein levels of postsynaptic density 95 (PSD-95) and synapsin-1 (SYN-1) in the hippocampus. CONCLUSION These results indicated that the enhanced learning ability observed in FLX-treated middle-aged APP/PS1 mice might be associated with remarkable mitigation of hippocampal dendritic spine pathology by FLX and suggested that FLX might be explored as a new strategy for therapy of AD in the middle-to-late stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ma
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Wei Tang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yong Tang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
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89
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Yang W, Zhou X, Zimmermann HR, Ma T. Brain-specific suppression of AMPKα2 isoform impairs cognition and hippocampal LTP by PERK-mediated eIF2α phosphorylation. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:1880-1897. [PMID: 32366952 PMCID: PMC8054310 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-020-0739-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a molecular sensor to maintain energy homeostasis. The two isoforms of the AMPK catalytic subunit (AMPKα1 and α2) are both expressed in brains, but their roles in cognition are unknown. We generated conditional knockout mice in which brain AMPKα isoforms are selectively suppressed (AMPKα1/α2 cKO), and determined the isoform-specific effects in mice of either sex on cognition and synaptic plasticity. AMPKα2 cKO but not AMPKα1 cKO displayed impaired cognition and hippocampal late long-term potentiation (L-LTP). Further, AMPKα2 cKO mice exhibited decreased dendritic spine density and abnormal spine morphology in hippocampus. Electron microscope imaging demonstrated reduced postsynaptic density formation and fewer dendritic polyribosomes in hippocampi of AMPKα2 cKO mice. Biochemical studies revealed unexpected findings that repression of AMPKα2 resulted in increased phosphorylation of mRNA translational factor eIF2α and its kinase PERK. Importantly, L-LTP failure and cognitive impairments displayed in AMPKα2 cKO mice were alleviated by suppressing PERK activity pharmacologically or genetically. In summary, we demonstrate here that brain-specific suppression of AMPKα2 isoform impairs cognition and hippocampal LTP by PERK-mediated eIF2α phosphorylation, providing molecular mechanisms linking metabolism, protein synthesis, and cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzhong Yang
- Department of Internal Medicine-Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Xueyan Zhou
- Department of Internal Medicine-Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Helena R. Zimmermann
- Department of Internal Medicine-Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Tao Ma
- Department of Internal Medicine-Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA. .,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA. .,Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA.
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90
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Steffens H, Mott AC, Li S, Wegner W, Švehla P, Kan VWY, Wolf F, Liebscher S, Willig KI. Stable but not rigid: Chronic in vivo STED nanoscopy reveals extensive remodeling of spines, indicating multiple drivers of plasticity. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:7/24/eabf2806. [PMID: 34108204 PMCID: PMC8189587 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abf2806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Excitatory synapses on dendritic spines of pyramidal neurons are considered a central memory locus. To foster both continuous adaption and the storage of long-term information, spines need to be plastic and stable at the same time. Here, we advanced in vivo STED nanoscopy to superresolve distinct features of spines (head size and neck length/width) in mouse neocortex for up to 1 month. While LTP-dependent changes predict highly correlated modifications of spine geometry, we find both, uncorrelated and correlated dynamics, indicating multiple independent drivers of spine remodeling. The magnitude of this remodeling suggests substantial fluctuations in synaptic strength. Despite this high degree of volatility, all spine features exhibit persistent components that are maintained over long periods of time. Furthermore, chronic nanoscopy uncovers structural alterations in the cortex of a mouse model of neurodegeneration. Thus, at the nanoscale, stable dendritic spines exhibit a delicate balance of stability and volatility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heinz Steffens
- Optical Nanoscopy in Neuroscience, Center for Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Alexander C Mott
- Optical Nanoscopy in Neuroscience, Center for Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Siyuan Li
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
- BioMedical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Waja Wegner
- Optical Nanoscopy in Neuroscience, Center for Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Pavel Švehla
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
- BioMedical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Vanessa W Y Kan
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
- BioMedical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Fred Wolf
- Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization; Campus Institute for Dynamics of Biological Networks, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sabine Liebscher
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany.
- BioMedical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Katrin I Willig
- Optical Nanoscopy in Neuroscience, Center for Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
- Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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91
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Wu L, Zhou X, Cao Y, MAK SH, Zha L, Li N, Su Z, Han Y, Wang Y, Man Hoi MP, Sun Y, Zhang G, Zhang Z, Yang X. Therapeutic efficacy of novel memantine nitrate MN-08 in animal models of Alzheimer's disease. Aging Cell 2021; 20:e13371. [PMID: 33955647 PMCID: PMC8208785 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a leading cause of dementia in elderly individuals and therapeutic options for AD are very limited. Over‐activation of N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors, amyloid β (Aβ) aggregation, a decrease in cerebral blood flow (CBF), and downstream pathological events play important roles in the disease progression of AD. In the present study, MN‐08, a novel memantine nitrate, was found to inhibit Aβ accumulation, prevent neuronal and dendritic spine loss, and consequently attenuate cognitive deficits in 2‐month‐old APP/PS1 transgenic mice (for a 6‐month preventative course) and in the 8‐month‐old triple‐transgenic (3×Tg‐AD) mice (for a 4‐month therapeutic course). In vitro, MN‐08 could bind to and antagonize NMDA receptors, inhibit the calcium influx, and reverse the dysregulations of ERK and PI3K/Akt/GSK3β pathway, subsequently preventing glutamate‐induced neuronal loss. In addition, MN‐08 had favorable pharmacokinetics, blood‐brain barrier penetration, and safety profiles in rats and beagle dogs. These findings suggest that the novel memantine nitrate MN‐08 may be a useful therapeutic agent for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangmiao Wu
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Center The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University and Institute of New Drug Research International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Chinese Ministry of Education Jinan University College of Pharmacy Guangzhou China
| | - Xinhua Zhou
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Center The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University and Institute of New Drug Research International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Chinese Ministry of Education Jinan University College of Pharmacy Guangzhou China
| | - Yiwan Cao
- Institute of New Drug Research International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Chinese Ministry of Education Jinan University College of Pharmacy Guangzhou China
| | - Shing Hung MAK
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology Institute of Modern Chinese Medicine The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Hong Kong China
| | - Ling Zha
- Institute of New Drug Research International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Chinese Ministry of Education Jinan University College of Pharmacy Guangzhou China
| | - Ning Li
- Institute of New Drug Research International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Chinese Ministry of Education Jinan University College of Pharmacy Guangzhou China
| | - Zhiyang Su
- Institute of New Drug Research International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Chinese Ministry of Education Jinan University College of Pharmacy Guangzhou China
| | - Yifan Han
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology Institute of Modern Chinese Medicine The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Hong Kong China
| | - Yuqiang Wang
- Institute of New Drug Research International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Chinese Ministry of Education Jinan University College of Pharmacy Guangzhou China
| | - Maggie Pui Man Hoi
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences University of Macau Macau China
| | - Yewei Sun
- Institute of New Drug Research International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Chinese Ministry of Education Jinan University College of Pharmacy Guangzhou China
| | - Gaoxiao Zhang
- Institute of New Drug Research International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Chinese Ministry of Education Jinan University College of Pharmacy Guangzhou China
| | - Zaijun Zhang
- Institute of New Drug Research International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Development of Chinese Ministry of Education Jinan University College of Pharmacy Guangzhou China
| | - Xifei Yang
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Shenzhen Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention Shenzhen China
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92
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Ma S, Zuo Y. Synaptic modifications in learning and memory - A dendritic spine story. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 125:84-90. [PMID: 34020876 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Synapses are specialized sites where neurons connect and communicate with each other. Activity-dependent modification of synaptic structure and function provides a mechanism for learning and memory. The advent of high-resolution time-lapse imaging in conjunction with fluorescent biosensors and actuators enables researchers to monitor and manipulate the structure and function of synapses both in vitro and in vivo. This review focuses on recent imaging studies on the synaptic modification underlying learning and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaorong Ma
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Yi Zuo
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA.
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93
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Latchney SE, Majewska AK. Persistent organic pollutants at the synapse: Shared phenotypes and converging mechanisms of developmental neurotoxicity. Dev Neurobiol 2021; 81:623-652. [PMID: 33851516 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The developing nervous system is sensitive to environmental and physiological perturbations in part due to its protracted period of prenatal and postnatal development. Epidemiological and experimental studies link developmental exposures to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) including polychlorinated biphenyls, polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, and benzo(a)pyrene to increased risk for neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Mechanistic studies reveal that many of the complex cellular processes that occur during sensitive periods of rapid brain development are cellular targets for developmental neurotoxicants. One area of research interest has focused on synapse formation and plasticity, processes that involve the growth and retraction of dendrites and dendritic spines. For each chemical discussed in this review, we summarize the morphological and electrophysiological data that provide evidence that developmental POP exposure produces long-lasting effects on dendritic morphology, spine formation, glutamatergic and GABAergic signaling systems, and synaptic transmission. We also discuss shared intracellular mechanisms, with a focus on calcium and thyroid hormone homeostasis, by which these chemicals act to modify synapses. We conclude our review highlighting research gaps that merit consideration when characterizing synaptic pathology elicited by chemical exposure. These gaps include low-dose and nonmonotonic dose-response effects, the temporal relationship between dendritic growth, spine formation, and synaptic activity, excitation-inhibition balance, hormonal effects, and the need for more studies in females to identify sex differences. By identifying converging pathological mechanisms elicited by POP exposure at the synapse, we can define future research directions that will advance our understanding of these chemicals on synapse structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Latchney
- Department of Biology, St. Mary's College of Maryland, St. Mary's City, MD, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Ania K Majewska
- Department of Neuroscience, Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.,Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
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94
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Eyo UB, Haruwaka K, Mo M, Campos-Salazar AB, Wang L, Speros XS, Sabu S, Xu P, Wu LJ. Microglia provide structural resolution to injured dendrites after severe seizures. Cell Rep 2021; 35:109080. [PMID: 33951432 PMCID: PMC8164475 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Although an imbalance between neuronal excitation and inhibition underlies seizures, clinical approaches that target these mechanisms are insufficient in containing seizures in patients with epilepsy, raising the need for alternative approaches. Brain-resident microglia contribute to the development and stability of neuronal structure and functional networks that are perturbed during seizures. However, the extent of microglial contributions in response to seizures in vivo remain to be elucidated. Using two-photon in vivo imaging to visualize microglial dynamics, we show that severe seizures induce formation of microglial process pouches that target but rarely engulf beaded neuronal dendrites. Microglial process pouches are stable for hours, although they often shrink in size. We further find that microglial process pouches are associated with a better structural resolution of beaded dendrites. These findings provide evidence for the structural resolution of injured dendrites by microglia as a form of neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ukpong B Eyo
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Brain Immunology and Glia Center, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
| | | | - Mingshu Mo
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong 510120, China
| | - Antony Brayan Campos-Salazar
- Brain Immunology and Glia Center, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Lingxiao Wang
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Xenophon S Speros
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Sruchika Sabu
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Pingyi Xu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangdong 510120, China
| | - Long-Jun Wu
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA; Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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95
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Bączyńska E, Pels KK, Basu S, Włodarczyk J, Ruszczycki B. Quantification of Dendritic Spines Remodeling under Physiological Stimuli and in Pathological Conditions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4053. [PMID: 33919977 PMCID: PMC8070910 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22084053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous brain diseases are associated with abnormalities in morphology and density of dendritic spines, small membranous protrusions whose structural geometry correlates with the strength of synaptic connections. Thus, the quantitative analysis of dendritic spines remodeling in microscopic images is one of the key elements towards understanding mechanisms of structural neuronal plasticity and bases of brain pathology. In the following article, we review experimental approaches designed to assess quantitative features of dendritic spines under physiological stimuli and in pathological conditions. We compare various methodological pipelines of biological models, sample preparation, data analysis, image acquisition, sample size, and statistical analysis. The methodology and results of relevant experiments are systematically summarized in a tabular form. In particular, we focus on quantitative data regarding the number of animals, cells, dendritic spines, types of studied parameters, size of observed changes, and their statistical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Bączyńska
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (E.B.); (K.K.P.); (J.W.)
| | - Katarzyna Karolina Pels
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (E.B.); (K.K.P.); (J.W.)
| | - Subhadip Basu
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Jadvapur University, Kolkata 700032, India;
| | - Jakub Włodarczyk
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (E.B.); (K.K.P.); (J.W.)
| | - Błażej Ruszczycki
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (E.B.); (K.K.P.); (J.W.)
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96
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Bertling E, Blaesse P, Seja P, Kremneva E, Gateva G, Virtanen MA, Summanen M, Spoljaric I, Uvarov P, Blaesse M, Paavilainen VO, Vutskits L, Kaila K, Hotulainen P, Ruusuvuori E. Carbonic anhydrase seven bundles filamentous actin and regulates dendritic spine morphology and density. EMBO Rep 2021; 22:e50145. [PMID: 33719157 PMCID: PMC8025036 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202050145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Intracellular pH is a potent modulator of neuronal functions. By catalyzing (de)hydration of CO2 , intracellular carbonic anhydrase (CAi ) isoforms CA2 and CA7 contribute to neuronal pH buffering and dynamics. The presence of two highly active isoforms in neurons suggests that they may serve isozyme-specific functions unrelated to CO2 -(de)hydration. Here, we show that CA7, unlike CA2, binds to filamentous actin, and its overexpression induces formation of thick actin bundles and membrane protrusions in fibroblasts. In CA7-overexpressing neurons, CA7 is enriched in dendritic spines, which leads to aberrant spine morphology. We identified amino acids unique to CA7 that are required for direct actin interactions, promoting actin filament bundling and spine targeting. Disruption of CA7 expression in neocortical neurons leads to higher spine density due to increased proportion of small spines. Thus, our work demonstrates highly distinct subcellular expression patterns of CA7 and CA2, and a novel, structural role of CA7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enni Bertling
- Neuroscience CenterHiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
- Minerva Institute for Medical ResearchBiomedicum Helsinki 2UHelsinkiFinland
| | - Peter Blaesse
- Institute of Physiology IWestfälische Wilhelms‐Universität MünsterMünsterGermany
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental SciencesMolecular and Integrative Biosciences, and HiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Patricia Seja
- Neuroscience CenterHiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental SciencesMolecular and Integrative Biosciences, and HiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | | | | | - Mari A Virtanen
- Neuroscience CenterHiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental SciencesMolecular and Integrative Biosciences, and HiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
- Department of Anesthesiology, PharmacologyIntensive Care and Emergency MedicineUniversity Hospitals of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Milla Summanen
- Neuroscience CenterHiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental SciencesMolecular and Integrative Biosciences, and HiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Inkeri Spoljaric
- Neuroscience CenterHiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental SciencesMolecular and Integrative Biosciences, and HiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Pavel Uvarov
- Neuroscience CenterHiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental SciencesMolecular and Integrative Biosciences, and HiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | | | | | - Laszlo Vutskits
- Department of Anesthesiology, PharmacologyIntensive Care and Emergency MedicineUniversity Hospitals of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Kai Kaila
- Neuroscience CenterHiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental SciencesMolecular and Integrative Biosciences, and HiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Pirta Hotulainen
- Neuroscience CenterHiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
- Minerva Institute for Medical ResearchBiomedicum Helsinki 2UHelsinkiFinland
| | - Eva Ruusuvuori
- Neuroscience CenterHiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental SciencesMolecular and Integrative Biosciences, and HiLIFEUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
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97
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Obashi K, Taraska JW, Okabe S. The role of molecular diffusion within dendritic spines in synaptic function. J Gen Physiol 2021; 153:e202012814. [PMID: 33720306 PMCID: PMC7967910 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202012814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Spines are tiny nanoscale protrusions from dendrites of neurons. In the cortex and hippocampus, most of the excitatory postsynaptic sites reside in spines. The bulbous spine head is connected to the dendritic shaft by a thin membranous neck. Because the neck is narrow, spine heads are thought to function as biochemically independent signaling compartments. Thus, dynamic changes in the composition, distribution, mobility, conformations, and signaling properties of molecules contained within spines can account for much of the molecular basis of postsynaptic function and regulation. A major factor in controlling these changes is the diffusional properties of proteins within this small compartment. Advances in measurement techniques using fluorescence microscopy now make it possible to measure molecular diffusion within single dendritic spines directly. Here, we review the regulatory mechanisms of diffusion in spines by local intra-spine architecture and discuss their implications for neuronal signaling and synaptic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuki Obashi
- Biochemistry and Biophysics Center, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Justin W. Taraska
- Biochemistry and Biophysics Center, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Shigeo Okabe
- Department of Cellular Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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98
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Stavroulaki V, Ioakeimidis V, Konstantoudaki X, Sidiropoulou K. Enhanced synaptic properties of the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus after learning a spatial working memory task in adult male mice. J Neurosci Res 2021; 99:1802-1814. [PMID: 33740288 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Working memory (WM) is the ability to hold on-line and manipulate information. The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is a key brain region involved in WM, while the hippocampus is also involved, particularly, in spatial WM. Although several studies have investigated the neuronal substrates of WM in trained animals, the effects and the mechanisms underlying learning WM tasks have not been explored. In our study, we investigated the effects of learning WM tasks in mice on the function of PFC and hippocampus, by training mice in the delayed alternation task for 9 days (adaptive group). This group was compared to naïve mice (which stayed in their homecage) and mice trained in the alternation procedure only (non-adaptive). Following training, a cohort of mice (Experiment A) was tested in the left-right discrimination task and the reversal learning task, while another cohort (Experiment B) was tested in the attention set-shifting task (AST). The adaptive group performed significantly better in the reversal learning task (Experiment A) and AST (Experiment B), compared to non-adaptive and naïve groups. At the end of the behavioral experiments in Experiment A, field excitatory post-synaptic potential (fEPSP) recordings were performed in PFC and hippocampal brain slices. The adaptive group had enhanced the long-term potentiation (LTP) in the PFC, compared to the other groups. In the hippocampus, both the adaptive and the non-adaptive groups exhibited increased fEPSP compared to the naïve group, but no differences in LTP. In Experiment B, the dendritic spine density was measured, which, in the PFC, was found increased in the adaptive group, compared to the non-adaptive and naïve groups. In the hippocampus, there was an increase in mature dendritic spine density in the adaptive group, compared to the other two groups. Our results indicate a role for LTP and dendritic spine density in learning WM tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kyriaki Sidiropoulou
- Department of Biology, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
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99
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Okabe S. Recent advances in computational methods for measurement of dendritic spines imaged by light microscopy. Microscopy (Oxf) 2021; 69:196-213. [PMID: 32244257 DOI: 10.1093/jmicro/dfaa016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic spines are small protrusions that receive most of the excitatory inputs to the pyramidal neurons in the neocortex and the hippocampus. Excitatory neural circuits in the neocortex and hippocampus are important for experience-dependent changes in brain functions, including postnatal sensory refinement and memory formation. Several lines of evidence indicate that synaptic efficacy is correlated with spine size and structure. Hence, precise and accurate measurement of spine morphology is important for evaluation of neural circuit function and plasticity. Recent advances in light microscopy and image analysis techniques have opened the way toward a full description of spine nanostructure. In addition, large datasets of spine nanostructure can be effectively analyzed using machine learning techniques and other mathematical approaches, and recent advances in super-resolution imaging allow researchers to analyze spine structure at an unprecedented level of precision. This review summarizes computational methods that can effectively identify, segment and quantitate dendritic spines in either 2D or 3D imaging. Nanoscale analysis of spine structure and dynamics, combined with new mathematical approaches, will facilitate our understanding of spine functions in physiological and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeo Okabe
- Department of Cellular Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
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100
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Flores-Soto M, Romero-Guerrero C, Vázquez-Hernández N, Tejeda-Martínez A, Martín-Amaya-Barajas FL, Orozco-Suárez S, González-Burgos I. Pentylenetetrazol-induced seizures in adult rats are associated with plastic changes to the dendritic spines on hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons. Behav Brain Res 2021; 406:113198. [PMID: 33657439 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a chronic neurobehavioral disorder whereby an imbalance between neurochemical excitation and inhibition at the synaptic level provokes seizures. Various experimental models have been used to study epilepsy, including that based on acute or chronic administration of Pentylenetetrazol (PTZ). In this study, a single PTZ dose (60 mg/kg) was administered to adult male rats and 30 min later, various neurobiological parameters were studied related to the transmission and modulation of excitatory impulses in pyramidal neurons of the hippocampal CA1 field. Rats experienced generalized seizures 1-3 min after PTZ administration, accompanied by elevated levels of Synaptophysin and Glutaminase. This response suggests presynaptic glutamate release is exacerbated to toxic levels, which eventually provokes neuronal death as witnessed by the higher levels of Caspase-3, TUNEL and GFAP. Similarly, the increase in PSD-95 suggests that viable dendritic spines are functional. Indeed, the increase in stubby and wide spines is likely related to de novo spinogenesis, and the regulation of neuronal excitability, which could represent a plastic response to the synaptic over-excitation. Furthermore, the increase in mushroom spines could be associated with the storage of cognitive information and the potentiation of thin spines until they are transformed into mushroom spines. However, the reduction in BDNF suggests that the activity of these spines would be down-regulated, may in part be responsible for the cognitive decline related to hippocampal function in patients with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Flores-Soto
- División de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, IMSS, Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico
| | - Christian Romero-Guerrero
- División de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, IMSS, Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico
| | - Nallely Vázquez-Hernández
- División de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, IMSS, Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico
| | - Aldo Tejeda-Martínez
- División de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, IMSS, Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico
| | | | - Sandra Orozco-Suárez
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Neurológicas, Hospital de Especialidades, CMN S-XXI, IMSS, Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico
| | - Ignacio González-Burgos
- División de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, IMSS, Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico.
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