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Mishra A. Binaural blood flow control by astrocytes: listening to synapses and the vasculature. J Physiol 2016; 595:1885-1902. [PMID: 27619153 DOI: 10.1113/jp270979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are the most common glial cells in the brain with fine processes and endfeet that intimately contact both neuronal synapses and the cerebral vasculature. They play an important role in mediating neurovascular coupling (NVC) via several astrocytic Ca2+ -dependent signalling pathways such as K+ release through BK channels, and the production and release of arachidonic acid metabolites. They are also involved in maintaining the resting tone of the cerebral vessels by releasing ATP and COX-1 derivatives. Evidence also supports a role for astrocytes in maintaining blood pressure-dependent change in cerebrovascular tone, and perhaps also in blood vessel-to-neuron signalling as posited by the 'hemo-neural hypothesis'. Thus, astrocytes are emerging as new stars in preserving the intricate balance between the high energy demand of active neurons and the supply of oxygen and nutrients from the blood by maintaining both resting blood flow and activity-evoked changes therein. Following neuropathology, astrocytes become reactive and many of their key signalling mechanisms are altered, including those involved in NVC. Furthermore, as they can respond to changes in vascular pressure, cardiovascular diseases might exert previously unknown effects on the central nervous system by altering astrocyte function. This review discusses the role of astrocytes in neurovascular signalling in both physiology and pathology, and the impact of these findings on understanding BOLD-fMRI signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anusha Mishra
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
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52
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Cameron M, Kékesi O, Morley JW, Tapson J, Breen PP, van Schaik A, Buskila Y. Calcium Imaging of AM Dyes Following Prolonged Incubation in Acute Neuronal Tissue. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0155468. [PMID: 27183102 PMCID: PMC4868260 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0155468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Accepted: 04/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium-imaging is a sensitive method for monitoring calcium dynamics during neuronal activity. As intracellular calcium concentration is correlated to physiological and pathophysiological activity of neurons, calcium imaging with fluorescent indicators is one of the most commonly used techniques in neuroscience today. Current methodologies for loading calcium dyes into the tissue require prolonged incubation time (45-150 min), in addition to dissection and recovery time after the slicing procedure. This prolonged incubation curtails experimental time, as tissue is typically maintained for 6-8 hours after slicing. Using a recently introduced recovery chamber that extends the viability of acute brain slices to more than 24 hours, we tested the effectiveness of calcium AM staining following long incubation periods post cell loading and its impact on the functional properties of calcium signals in acute brain slices and wholemount retinae. We show that calcium dyes remain within cells and are fully functional >24 hours after loading. Moreover, the calcium dynamics recorded >24 hrs were similar to the calcium signals recorded in fresh tissue that was incubated for <4 hrs. These results indicate that long exposure of calcium AM dyes to the intracellular cytoplasm did not alter the intracellular calcium concentration, the functional range of the dye or viability of the neurons. This data extends our previous work showing that a custom recovery chamber can extend the viability of neuronal tissue, and reliable data for both electrophysiology and imaging can be obtained >24hrs after dissection. These methods will not only extend experimental time for those using acute neuronal tissue, but also may reduce the number of animals required to complete experimental goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morven Cameron
- Biomedical Engineering and Neuroscience group, The MARCS Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Orsolya Kékesi
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- Biomedical Engineering and Neuroscience group, The MARCS Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - John W. Morley
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- Biomedical Engineering and Neuroscience group, The MARCS Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Jonathan Tapson
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Paul P. Breen
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - André van Schaik
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Yossi Buskila
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- Biomedical Engineering and Neuroscience group, The MARCS Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
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Abstract
The role of astrocytes in neuronal function has received increasing recognition, but disagreement remains about their function at the circuit level. Here we use in vivo two-photon calcium imaging of neocortical astrocytes while monitoring the activity state of the local neuronal circuit electrophysiologically and optically. We find that astrocytic calcium activity precedes spontaneous circuit shifts to the slow-oscillation-dominated state, a neocortical rhythm characterized by synchronized neuronal firing and important for sleep and memory. Further, we show that optogenetic activation of astrocytes switches the local neuronal circuit to this slow-oscillation state. Finally, using two-photon imaging of extracellular glutamate, we find that astrocytic transients in glutamate co-occur with shifts to the synchronized state and that optogenetically activated astrocytes can generate these glutamate transients. We conclude that astrocytes can indeed trigger the low-frequency state of a cortical circuit by altering extracellular glutamate, and therefore play a causal role in the control of cortical synchronizations.
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54
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Shigetomi E, Patel S, Khakh BS. Probing the Complexities of Astrocyte Calcium Signaling. Trends Cell Biol 2016; 26:300-312. [PMID: 26896246 PMCID: PMC4946798 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2016.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Revised: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are abundant glial cells that tile the entire central nervous system and mediate well-established functions for neurons, blood vessels, and other glia. These ubiquitous cells display intracellular Ca(2+) signals, which have been intensely studied for 25 years. Recently, the use of improved methods has unearthed the panoply of astrocyte Ca(2+) signals and a variable landscape of basal Ca(2+) levels. In vivo studies have started to reveal the settings under which astrocytes display behaviorally relevant Ca(2+) signaling. Studies in mice have emphasized how astrocyte Ca(2+) signaling is altered in distinct neurodegenerative diseases. Progress in the past few years, fueled by methodological advances, has thus reignited interest in astrocyte Ca(2+) signaling for brain function and dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiji Shigetomi
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan
| | - Sandip Patel
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Baljit S Khakh
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA.
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55
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Nakayama R, Sasaki T, Tanaka KF, Ikegaya Y. Subcellular calcium dynamics during juvenile development in mouse hippocampal astrocytes. Eur J Neurosci 2016; 43:923-32. [PMID: 27041234 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2015] [Revised: 12/26/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes generate calcium signals throughout their fine processes, which are assumed to locally regulate neighbouring neurotransmission and blood flow. The intercellular morphological relationships mature during juvenile periods when astrocytes elongate highly ramified processes. In this study, we examined developmental changes in calcium activity patterns of single hippocampal astrocytes using a transgenic mouse line in which astrocytes selectively express a genetically encoded calcium indicator, Yellow Cameleon-Nano50. Compared with postnatal day 7, astrocytes at postnatal day 30 showed larger subcellular calcium events and a greater proportion of somatic events. At both ages, the calcium activity was abolished by removal of extracellular calcium ions. Calcium events in late juvenile astrocytes were not affected by spontaneously occurring sharp waves that trigger synchronized neuronal spikes, implying the independence of astrocyte calcium signals from neuronal synchronization. These results demonstrate that astrocytes undergo dynamic changes in their activity patterns during juvenile development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryota Nakayama
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takuya Sasaki
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji F Tanaka
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuji Ikegaya
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Center for Information and Neural Networks, Osaka, Japan
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Reciprocal Regulation of Mitochondrial Dynamics and Calcium Signaling in Astrocyte Processes. J Neurosci 2016; 35:15199-213. [PMID: 26558789 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2049-15.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED We recently showed that inhibition of neuronal activity, glutamate uptake, or reversed-Na(+)/Ca(2+)-exchange with TTX, TFB-TBOA, or YM-244769, respectively, increases mitochondrial mobility in astrocytic processes. In the present study, we examined the interrelationships between mitochondrial mobility and Ca(2+) signaling in astrocyte processes in organotypic cultures of rat hippocampus. All of the treatments that increase mitochondrial mobility decreased basal Ca(2+). As recently reported, we observed spontaneous Ca(2+) spikes with half-lives of ∼1 s that spread ∼6 μm and are almost abolished by a TRPA1 channel antagonist. Virtually all of these Ca(2+) spikes overlap mitochondria (98%), and 62% of mitochondria are overlapped by these spikes. Although tetrodotoxin, TFB-TBOA, or YM-244769 increased Ca(2+) signaling, the specific effects on peak, decay time, and/or frequency were different. To more specifically manipulate mitochondrial mobility, we explored the effects of Miro motor adaptor proteins. We show that Miro1 and Miro2 are both expressed in astrocytes and that exogenous expression of Ca(2+)-insensitive Miro mutants (KK) nearly doubles the percentage of mobile mitochondria. Expression of Miro1(KK) had a modest effect on the frequency of these Ca(2+) spikes but nearly doubled the decay half-life. The mitochondrial proton ionophore, FCCP, caused a large, prolonged increase in cytosolic Ca(2+) followed by an increase in the decay time and the spread of the spontaneous Ca(2+) spikes. Photo-ablation of mitochondria in individual astrocyte processes has similar effects on Ca(2+). Together, these studies show that Ca(2+) regulates mitochondrial mobility, and mitochondria in turn regulate Ca(2+) signals in astrocyte processes. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT In neurons, the movement and positioning of mitochondria at sites of elevated activity are important for matching local energy and Ca(2+) buffering capacity. Previously, we demonstrated that mitochondria are immobilized in astrocytes in response to neuronal activity and glutamate uptake. Here, we demonstrate a mechanism by which mitochondria are immobilized in astrocytes subsequent to increases in intracellular [Ca(2+)] and provide evidence that mitochondria contribute to the compartmentalization of spontaneous Ca(2+) signals in astrocyte processes. Immobilization of mitochondria at sites of glutamate uptake in astrocyte processes provides a mechanism to coordinate increases in activity with increases in mitochondrial metabolism.
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Enger R, Tang W, Vindedal GF, Jensen V, Johannes Helm P, Sprengel R, Looger LL, Nagelhus EA. Dynamics of Ionic Shifts in Cortical Spreading Depression. Cereb Cortex 2015; 25:4469-76. [PMID: 25840424 PMCID: PMC4816793 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhv054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cortical spreading depression is a slowly propagating wave of near-complete depolarization of brain cells followed by temporary suppression of neuronal activity. Accumulating evidence indicates that cortical spreading depression underlies the migraine aura and that similar waves promote tissue damage in stroke, trauma, and hemorrhage. Cortical spreading depression is characterized by neuronal swelling, profound elevation of extracellular potassium and glutamate, multiphasic blood flow changes, and drop in tissue oxygen tension. The slow speed of the cortical spreading depression wave implies that it is mediated by diffusion of a chemical substance, yet the identity of this substance and the pathway it follows are unknown. Intercellular spread between gap junction-coupled neurons or glial cells and interstitial diffusion of K(+) or glutamate have been proposed. Here we use extracellular direct current potential recordings, K(+)-sensitive microelectrodes, and 2-photon imaging with ultrasensitive Ca(2+) and glutamate fluorescent probes to elucidate the spatiotemporal dynamics of ionic shifts associated with the propagation of cortical spreading depression in the visual cortex of adult living mice. Our data argue against intercellular spread of Ca(2+) carrying the cortical spreading depression wavefront and are in favor of interstitial K(+) diffusion, rather than glutamate diffusion, as the leading event in cortical spreading depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rune Enger
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, 0027 Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Letten Centre and GliaLab, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Wannan Tang
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Letten Centre and GliaLab, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, D69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Gry Fluge Vindedal
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Letten Centre and GliaLab, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Vidar Jensen
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Letten Centre and GliaLab, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - P. Johannes Helm
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Letten Centre and GliaLab, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Rolf Sprengel
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, D69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Loren L. Looger
- Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Erlend A. Nagelhus
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, 0027 Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Letten Centre and GliaLab, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, D69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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58
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Diversity of astrocyte functions and phenotypes in neural circuits. Nat Neurosci 2015; 18:942-52. [PMID: 26108722 DOI: 10.1038/nn.4043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 749] [Impact Index Per Article: 83.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes tile the entire CNS. They are vital for neural circuit function, but have traditionally been viewed as simple, homogenous cells that serve the same essential supportive roles everywhere. Here, we summarize breakthroughs that instead indicate that astrocytes represent a population of complex and functionally diverse cells. Physiological diversity of astrocytes is apparent between different brain circuits and microcircuits, and individual astrocytes display diverse signaling in subcellular compartments. With respect to injury and disease, astrocytes undergo diverse phenotypic changes that may be protective or causative with regard to pathology in a context-dependent manner. These new insights herald the concept that astrocytes represent a diverse population of genetically tractable cells that mediate neural circuit-specific roles in health and disease.
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59
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Perisynaptic astroglial processes: dynamic processors of neuronal information. Brain Struct Funct 2015; 221:2427-42. [PMID: 26026482 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-015-1070-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 05/21/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Neuroglial interactions are now recognized as essential to brain functions. Extensive research has sought to understand the modalities of such dialog by focusing on astrocytes, the most abundant glial cell type of the central nervous system. Neuron-astrocyte exchanges occur at multiple levels, at different cellular locations. With regard to information processing, regulations occurring around synapses are of particular interest as synaptic networks are thought to underlie higher brain functions. Astrocytes morphology is tremendously complex in that their processes exceedingly branch out to eventually form multitudinous fine leaflets. The latter extremities have been shown to surround many synapses, forming perisynaptic astrocytic processes, which although recognized as essential to synaptic functioning, are poorly defined elements due to their tiny size. The current review sums up the current knowledge on their molecular and structural properties as well as the functional characteristics making them good candidates for information processing units.
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60
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Srinivasan R, Huang BS, Venugopal S, Johnston AD, Chai H, Zeng H, Golshani P, Khakh BS. Ca(2+) signaling in astrocytes from Ip3r2(-/-) mice in brain slices and during startle responses in vivo. Nat Neurosci 2015; 18:708-17. [PMID: 25894291 PMCID: PMC4429056 DOI: 10.1038/nn.4001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 321] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 03/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Intracellular Ca2+ signaling is considered important for multiple astrocyte functions in neural circuits. However, mice devoid of inositol triphosphate type 2 receptors (IP3R2) reportedly lack all astrocyte Ca2+ signaling, but display no neuronal or neurovascular deficits, implying that astrocyte Ca2+ fluctuations play no role(s) in these functions. An assumption has been that loss of somatic Ca2+ fluctuations also reflects similar loss within astrocyte processes. Here, we tested this assumption and found diverse types of Ca2+ fluctuations within astrocytes, with most occurring within processes rather than in somata. These fluctuations were preserved in IP3R2−/− mice in brain slices and in vivo, occurred in endfeet, were increased by G-protein coupled receptor activation and by startle-induced neuromodulatory responses. Our data reveal novel Ca2+ fluctuations within astrocytes and highlight limitations of studies that used IP3R2−/− mice to evaluate astrocyte contributions to neural circuit function and mouse behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Srinivasan
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ben S Huang
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sharmila Venugopal
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - April D Johnston
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Hua Chai
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Hongkui Zeng
- Allen Institute for Brain Science, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Peyman Golshani
- 1] Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA. [2] Integrative Center for Learning and Memory, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA. [3] West Los Angeles VA Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Baljit S Khakh
- 1] Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA. [2] Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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61
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Gee JM, Gibbons MB, Taheri M, Palumbos S, Morris SC, Smeal RM, Flynn KF, Economo MN, Cizek CG, Capecchi MR, Tvrdik P, Wilcox KS, White JA. Imaging activity in astrocytes and neurons with genetically encoded calcium indicators following in utero electroporation. Front Mol Neurosci 2015; 8:10. [PMID: 25926768 PMCID: PMC4397926 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2015.00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Complex interactions between networks of astrocytes and neurons are beginning to be appreciated, but remain poorly understood. Transgenic mice expressing fluorescent protein reporters of cellular activity, such as the GCaMP family of genetically encoded calcium indicators (GECIs), have been used to explore network behavior. However, in some cases, it may be desirable to use long-established rat models that closely mimic particular aspects of human conditions such as Parkinson's disease and the development of epilepsy following status epilepticus. Methods for expressing reporter proteins in the rat brain are relatively limited. Transgenic rat technologies exist but are fairly immature. Viral-mediated expression is robust but unstable, requires invasive injections, and only works well for fairly small genes (<5 kb). In utero electroporation (IUE) offers a valuable alternative. IUE is a proven method for transfecting populations of astrocytes and neurons in the rat brain without the strict limitations on transgene size. We built a toolset of IUE plasmids carrying GCaMP variants 3, 6s, or 6f driven by CAG and targeted to the cytosol or the plasma membrane. Because low baseline fluorescence of GCaMP can hinder identification of transfected cells, we included the option of co-expressing a cytosolic tdTomato protein. A binary system consisting of a plasmid carrying a piggyBac inverted terminal repeat (ITR)-flanked CAG-GCaMP-IRES-tdTomato cassette and a separate plasmid encoding for expression of piggyBac transposase was employed to stably express GCaMP and tdTomato. The plasmids were co-electroporated on embryonic days 13.5-14.5 and astrocytic and neuronal activity was subsequently imaged in acute or cultured brain slices prepared from the cortex or hippocampus. Large spontaneous transients were detected in slices obtained from rats of varying ages up to 127 days. In this report, we demonstrate the utility of this toolset for interrogating astrocytic and neuronal activity in the rat brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Michael Gee
- Neuronal Dynamics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA ; MD-PhD Program, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Meredith B Gibbons
- Glial-Neuronal Interactions in Epilepsy Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA ; Interdepartmental Program in Neuroscience, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Marsa Taheri
- Neuronal Dynamics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Sierra Palumbos
- Mario Capecchi Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - S Craig Morris
- Neuronal Dynamics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA ; Mario Capecchi Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Roy M Smeal
- Glial-Neuronal Interactions in Epilepsy Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Katherine F Flynn
- Glial-Neuronal Interactions in Epilepsy Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Michael N Economo
- Neuronal Dynamics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Christian G Cizek
- Neuronal Dynamics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA ; Mario Capecchi Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Mario R Capecchi
- Mario Capecchi Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA ; Department of Human Genetics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Petr Tvrdik
- Mario Capecchi Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Karen S Wilcox
- Glial-Neuronal Interactions in Epilepsy Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - John A White
- Neuronal Dynamics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Stimulation-evoked Ca2+ signals in astrocytic processes at hippocampal CA3-CA1 synapses of adult mice are modulated by glutamate and ATP. J Neurosci 2015; 35:3016-21. [PMID: 25698739 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3319-14.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
To date, it has been difficult to reveal physiological Ca(2+) events occurring within the fine astrocytic processes of mature animals. The objective of the study was to explore whether neuronal activity evokes astrocytic Ca(2+) signals at glutamatergic synapses of adult mice. We stimulated the Schaffer collateral/commissural fibers in acute hippocampal slices from adult mice transduced with the genetically encoded Ca(2+) indicator GCaMP5E driven by the glial fibrillary acidic protein promoter. Two-photon imaging revealed global stimulation-evoked astrocytic Ca(2+) signals with distinct latencies, rise rates, and amplitudes in fine processes and somata. Specifically, the Ca(2+) signals in the processes were faster and of higher amplitude than those in the somata. A combination of P2 purinergic and group I/II metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) antagonists reduced the amplitude of the Ca(2+) transients by 30-40% in both astrocytic compartments. Blockage of the mGluRs alone only modestly reduced the magnitude of the stimulation-evoked Ca(2+) signals in processes and failed to affect the somatic Ca(2+) response. Local application of group I or I/II mGluR agonists or adenosine triphosphate (ATP) elicited global astrocytic Ca(2+) signals that mimicked the stimulation-evoked astrocytic Ca(2+) responses. We conclude that stimulation-evoked Ca(2+) signals in astrocytic processes at CA3-CA1 synapses of adult mice (1) differ from those in astrocytic somata and (2) are modulated by glutamate and ATP.
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63
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Szokol K, Heuser K, Tang W, Jensen V, Enger R, Bedner P, Steinhäuser C, Taubøll E, Ottersen OP, Nagelhus EA. Augmentation of Ca(2+) signaling in astrocytic endfeet in the latent phase of temporal lobe epilepsy. Front Cell Neurosci 2015; 9:49. [PMID: 25762896 PMCID: PMC4340203 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2014] [Accepted: 02/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytic endfeet are specialized cell compartments whose important homeostatic roles depend on their enrichment of water and ion channels anchored by the dystrophin associated protein complex (DAPC). This protein complex is known to disassemble in patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy and in the latent phase of experimental epilepsies. The mechanistic underpinning of this disassembly is an obvious target of future therapies, but remains unresolved. Here we show in a kainate model of temporal lobe epilepsy that astrocytic endfeet display an enhanced stimulation-evoked Ca(2+) signal that outlast the Ca(2+) signal in the cell bodies. While the amplitude of this Ca(2+) signal is reduced following group I/II metabotropic receptor (mGluR) blockade, the duration is sustained. Based on previous studies it has been hypothesized that the molecular disassembly in astrocytic endfeet is caused by dystrophin cleavage mediated by Ca(2+) dependent proteases. Using a newly developed genetically encoded Ca(2+) sensor, the present study bolsters this hypothesis by demonstrating long-lasting, enhanced stimulation-evoked Ca(2+) signals in astrocytic endfeet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Szokol
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital Oslo, Norway ; Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, The Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo Oslo, Norway ; Letten Centre and GliaLab, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo Oslo, Norway
| | - Kjell Heuser
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital Oslo, Norway ; Letten Centre and GliaLab, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo Oslo, Norway
| | - Wannan Tang
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, The Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo Oslo, Norway ; Letten Centre and GliaLab, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo Oslo, Norway
| | - Vidar Jensen
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, The Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo Oslo, Norway ; Letten Centre and GliaLab, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo Oslo, Norway
| | - Rune Enger
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital Oslo, Norway ; Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, The Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo Oslo, Norway ; Letten Centre and GliaLab, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo Oslo, Norway
| | - Peter Bedner
- Institute of Cellular Neurosciences, University of Bonn Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Erik Taubøll
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Erlend A Nagelhus
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital Oslo, Norway ; Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, The Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo Oslo, Norway ; Letten Centre and GliaLab, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo Oslo, Norway
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Khakh BS, McCarthy KD. Astrocyte calcium signaling: from observations to functions and the challenges therein. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2015; 7:a020404. [PMID: 25605709 PMCID: PMC4382738 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a020404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
We provide an overview of recent progress on the study of astrocyte intracellular Ca(2+) signaling. We consider the methods that have been used to monitor astrocyte Ca(2+) signals, the various types of Ca(2+) signals that have been discovered (waves, microdomains, and intrinsic fluctuations), the approaches used to broadly trigger and block Ca(2+) signals, and, where possible, the proposed and demonstrated physiological roles for astrocyte Ca(2+) signals within neuronal microcircuits. Although important progress has been made, we suggest that further detailed work is needed to explore the biophysics and molecular mechanisms of Ca(2+) signaling within entire astrocytes, including their fine distal extensions, such as processes that interact spatially with neurons and blood vessels. Improved methods are also needed to mimic and block molecularly defined types of Ca(2+) signals within genetically specified populations of astrocytes. Moreover, it will be essential to study astrocyte Ca(2+) activity in vivo to distinguish between pharmacological and physiological activity, and to study Ca(2+) activity in situ to rigorously explore mechanisms. Once methods to reliably measure, mimic, and block specific astrocyte Ca(2+) signals with high temporal and spatial precision are available, researchers will be able to carefully explore the correlative and causative roles that Ca(2+) signals may play in the functions of astrocytes, blood vessels, neurons, and microcircuits in the healthy and diseased brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baljit S Khakh
- Departments of Physiology and Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Ken D McCarthy
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7365
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65
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Calcium dynamics in astrocyte processes during neurovascular coupling. Nat Neurosci 2014; 18:210-8. [PMID: 25531572 DOI: 10.1038/nn.3906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2014] [Accepted: 11/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Enhanced neuronal activity in the brain triggers a local increase in blood flow, termed functional hyperemia, via several mechanisms, including calcium (Ca(2+)) signaling in astrocytes. However, recent in vivo studies have questioned the role of astrocytes in functional hyperemia because of the slow and sparse dynamics of their somatic Ca(2+) signals and the absence of glutamate metabotropic receptor 5 in adults. Here, we reexamined their role in neurovascular coupling by selectively expressing a genetically encoded Ca(2+) sensor in astrocytes of the olfactory bulb. We show that in anesthetized mice, the physiological activation of olfactory sensory neuron (OSN) terminals reliably triggers Ca(2+) increases in astrocyte processes but not in somata. These Ca(2+) increases systematically precede the onset of functional hyperemia by 1-2 s, reestablishing astrocytes as potential regulators of neurovascular coupling.
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66
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Metabotropic P2Y1 receptor signalling mediates astrocytic hyperactivity in vivo in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model. Nat Commun 2014; 5:5422. [PMID: 25406732 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms6422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 205] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytic network alterations have been reported in Alzheimer's disease (AD), but the underlying pathways have remained undefined. Here we measure astrocytic calcium, cerebral blood flow and amyloid-β plaques in vivo in a mouse model of AD using multiphoton microscopy. We find that astrocytic hyperactivity, consisting of single-cell transients and calcium waves, is most pronounced in reactive astrogliosis around plaques and is sometimes associated with local blood flow changes. We show that astroglial hyperactivity is reduced after P2 purinoreceptor blockade or nucleotide release through connexin hemichannels, but is augmented by increasing cortical ADP concentration. P2X receptor blockade has no effect, but inhibition of P2Y1 receptors, which are strongly expressed by reactive astrocytes surrounding plaques, completely normalizes astrocytic hyperactivity. Our data suggest that astroglial network dysfunction is mediated by purinergic signalling in reactive astrocytes, and that intervention aimed at P2Y1 receptors or hemichannel-mediated nucleotide release may help ameliorate network dysfunction in AD.
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67
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Jiang R, Haustein MD, Sofroniew MV, Khakh BS. Imaging intracellular Ca²⁺ signals in striatal astrocytes from adult mice using genetically-encoded calcium indicators. J Vis Exp 2014:e51972. [PMID: 25490346 DOI: 10.3791/51972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes display spontaneous intracellular Ca(2+) concentration fluctuations ([Ca(2+)]i) and in several settings respond to neuronal excitation with enhanced [Ca(2+)]i signals. It has been proposed that astrocytes in turn regulate neurons and blood vessels through calcium-dependent mechanisms, such as the release of signaling molecules. However, [Ca(2+)]i imaging in entire astrocytes has only recently become feasible with genetically encoded calcium indicators (GECIs) such as the GCaMP series. The use of GECIs in astrocytes now provides opportunities to study astrocyte [Ca(2+)]i signals in detail within model microcircuits such as the striatum, which is the largest nucleus of the basal ganglia. In the present report, detailed surgical methods to express GECIs in astrocytes in vivo, and confocal imaging approaches to record [Ca(2+)]i signals in striatal astrocytes in situ, are described. We highlight precautions, necessary controls and tests to determine if GECI expression is selective for astrocytes and to evaluate signs of overt astrocyte reactivity. We also describe brain slice and imaging conditions in detail that permit reliable [Ca(2+)]i imaging in striatal astrocytes in situ. The use of these approaches revealed the entire territories of single striatal astrocytes and spontaneous [Ca(2+)]i signals within their somata, branches and branchlets. The further use and expansion of these approaches in the striatum will allow for the detailed study of astrocyte [Ca(2+)]i signals in the striatal microcircuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruotian Jiang
- Department of Physiology, University of California Los Angeles
| | | | | | - Baljit S Khakh
- Department of Physiology, University of California Los Angeles; Department of Neurobiology, University of California Los Angeles;
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68
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Oheim M, van 't Hoff M, Feltz A, Zamaleeva A, Mallet JM, Collot M. New red-fluorescent calcium indicators for optogenetics, photoactivation and multi-color imaging. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2014; 1843:2284-306. [PMID: 24681159 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2014.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Most chemical and, with only a few exceptions, all genetically encoded fluorimetric calcium (Ca(2+)) indicators (GECIs) emit green fluorescence. Many of these probes are compatible with red-emitting cell- or organelle markers. But the bulk of available fluorescent-protein constructs and transgenic animals incorporate green or yellow fluorescent protein (GFP and YFP respectively). This is, in part, not only heritage from the tendency to aggregate of early-generation red-emitting FPs, and due to their complicated photochemistry, but also resulting from the compatibility of green-fluorescent probes with standard instrumentation readily available in most laboratories and core imaging facilities. Photochemical constraints like limited water solubility and low quantum yield have contributed to the relative paucity of red-emitting Ca(2+) probes compared to their green counterparts, too. The increasing use of GFP and GFP-based functional reporters, together with recent developments in optogenetics, photostimulation and super-resolution microscopies, has intensified the quest for red-emitting Ca(2+) probes. In response to this demand more red-emitting chemical and FP-based Ca(2+)-sensitive indicators have been developed since 2009 than in the thirty years before. In this topical review, we survey the physicochemical properties of these red-emitting Ca(2+) probes and discuss their utility for biological Ca(2+) imaging. Using the spectral separability index Xijk (Oheim M., 2010. Methods in Molecular Biology 591: 3-16) we evaluate their performance for multi-color excitation/emission experiments, involving the identification of morphological landmarks with GFP/YFP and detecting Ca(2+)-dependent fluorescence in the red spectral band. We also establish a catalog of criteria for evaluating Ca(2+) indicators that ideally should be made available for each probe. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Calcium signaling in health and disease. Guest Editors: Geert Bultynck, Jacques Haiech, Claus W. Heizmann, Joachim Krebs, and Marc Moreau.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Oheim
- CNRS, UMR 8154, Paris F-75006, France; INSERM, U603, Paris F-75006, France; University Paris Descartes, PRES Sorbonne Paris Cité, Laboratory of Neurophysiology and New Microscopies, 45 rue des Saints Pères, Paris F-75006, France.
| | - Marcel van 't Hoff
- CNRS, UMR 8154, Paris F-75006, France; INSERM, U603, Paris F-75006, France; University Paris Descartes, PRES Sorbonne Paris Cité, Laboratory of Neurophysiology and New Microscopies, 45 rue des Saints Pères, Paris F-75006, France; University of Florence, LENS - European Laboratory for Non-linear Spectroscopy, Via Nello Carrara 1, I-50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Anne Feltz
- Ecole Normale Supérieure, Institut de Biologie de l'ENS (IBENS), Paris F-75005, France; INSERM U1024, Paris F-75005, France; CNRS UMR 8197, Paris F-75005, France
| | - Alsu Zamaleeva
- Ecole Normale Supérieure, Institut de Biologie de l'ENS (IBENS), Paris F-75005, France; INSERM U1024, Paris F-75005, France; CNRS UMR 8197, Paris F-75005, France
| | - Jean-Maurice Mallet
- UPMC Université́ Paris 06, Ecole Normale Supérieure (ENS), 24 rue Lhomond, Paris F-75005, France; CNRS UMR 7203, Paris F-75005, France
| | - Mayeul Collot
- UPMC Université́ Paris 06, Ecole Normale Supérieure (ENS), 24 rue Lhomond, Paris F-75005, France; CNRS UMR 7203, Paris F-75005, France
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69
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Kanemaru K, Sekiya H, Xu M, Satoh K, Kitajima N, Yoshida K, Okubo Y, Sasaki T, Moritoh S, Hasuwa H, Mimura M, Horikawa K, Matsui K, Nagai T, Iino M, Tanaka KF. In vivo visualization of subtle, transient, and local activity of astrocytes using an ultrasensitive Ca(2+) indicator. Cell Rep 2014; 8:311-8. [PMID: 24981861 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2014.05.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2014] [Revised: 04/16/2014] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes generate local calcium (Ca(2+)) signals that are thought to regulate their functions. Visualization of these signals in the intact brain requires an imaging method with high spatiotemporal resolution. Here, we describe such a method using transgenic mice expressing the ultrasensitive ratiometric Ca(2+) indicator yellow Cameleon-Nano 50 (YC-Nano50) in astrocytes. In these mice, we detected a unique pattern of Ca(2+) signals. These occur spontaneously, predominantly in astrocytic fine processes, but not the cell body. Upon sensory stimulation, astrocytes initially responded with Ca(2+) signals at fine processes, which then propagated to the cell body. These observations suggest that astrocytic fine processes function as a high-sensitivity detector of neuronal activities. Thus, the method provides a useful tool for studying the activity of astrocytes in brain physiology and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazunori Kanemaru
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Sekiya
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Ming Xu
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Keio University, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kaname Satoh
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Nami Kitajima
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Keitaro Yoshida
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Keio University, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Yohei Okubo
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Takuya Sasaki
- Neurobiology Section and Center for Neural Circuits and Behavior, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, 92093-0357, USA
| | - Satoru Moritoh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8574, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Hasuwa
- Genome Information Research Center, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masaru Mimura
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Keio University, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kazuki Horikawa
- Support Center for Advanced Medical Sciences, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Ko Matsui
- Division of Interdisciplinary Medical Science, Center for Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Takeharu Nagai
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, Ibaraki 567-0047, Japan
| | - Masamitsu Iino
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.
| | - Kenji F Tanaka
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Keio University, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan.
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70
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Haustein MD, Kracun S, Lu XH, Shih T, Jackson-Weaver O, Tong X, Xu J, Yang XW, O'Dell TJ, Marvin JS, Ellisman MH, Bushong EA, Looger LL, Khakh BS. Conditions and constraints for astrocyte calcium signaling in the hippocampal mossy fiber pathway. Neuron 2014; 82:413-29. [PMID: 24742463 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2014.02.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/13/2014] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The spatiotemporal activities of astrocyte Ca²⁺ signaling in mature neuronal circuits remain unclear. We used genetically encoded Ca²⁺ and glutamate indicators as well as pharmacogenetic and electrical control of neurotransmitter release to explore astrocyte activity in the hippocampal mossy fiber pathway. Our data revealed numerous localized, spontaneous Ca²⁺ signals in astrocyte branches and territories, but these were not driven by neuronal activity or glutamate. Moreover, evoked astrocyte Ca²⁺ signaling changed linearly with the number of mossy fiber action potentials. Under these settings, astrocyte responses were global, suppressed by neurotransmitter clearance, and mediated by glutamate and GABA. Thus, astrocyte engagement in the fully developed mossy fiber pathway was slow and territorial, contrary to that frequently proposed for astrocytes within microcircuits. We show that astrocyte Ca²⁺ signaling functionally segregates large volumes of neuropil and that these transients are not suited for responding to, or regulating, single synapses in the mossy fiber pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin D Haustein
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Sebastian Kracun
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Xiao-Hong Lu
- Center for Neurobehavioral Genetics, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Tiffany Shih
- National Center for Microscopy and Imaging Research and Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Olan Jackson-Weaver
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Xiaoping Tong
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Ji Xu
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - X William Yang
- Center for Neurobehavioral Genetics, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Thomas J O'Dell
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Jonathan S Marvin
- Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Mark H Ellisman
- National Center for Microscopy and Imaging Research and Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Eric A Bushong
- National Center for Microscopy and Imaging Research and Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Loren L Looger
- Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Baljit S Khakh
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA.
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71
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Gibbons M, Smeal R, Takahashi D, Vargas J, Wilcox K. Contributions of astrocytes to epileptogenesis following status epilepticus: opportunities for preventive therapy? Neurochem Int 2013; 63:660-9. [PMID: 23266599 PMCID: PMC4353644 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2012.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2012] [Revised: 12/09/2012] [Accepted: 12/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Status epilepticus (SE) is a life threatening condition that often precedes the development of epilepsy. Traditional treatments for epilepsy have been focused on targeting neuronal mechanisms contributing to hyperexcitability, however, approximately 30% of patients with epilepsy do not respond to existing neurocentric pharmacotherapies. A growing body of evidence has demonstrated that profound changes in the morphology and function of astrocytes accompany SE and persist in epilepsy. Astrocytes are increasingly recognized for their diverse roles in modulating neuronal activity, and understanding the changes in astrocytes following SE could provide important clues about the mechanisms underlying seizure generation and termination. By understanding the contributions of astrocytes to the network changes underlying epileptogenesis and the development of epilepsy, we will gain a greater appreciation of the contributions of astrocytes to dynamic circuit changes, which will enable us to develop more successful therapies to prevent and treat epilepsy. This review summarizes changes in astrocytes following SE in animal models and human temporal lobe epilepsy and addresses the functional consequences of those changes that may provide clues to the process of epileptogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M.B. Gibbons
- Interdepartmental Program in Neuroscience, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - R.M. Smeal
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - D.K. Takahashi
- Department of Neurology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA
| | - J.R. Vargas
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - K.S. Wilcox
- Interdepartmental Program in Neuroscience, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
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72
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Rapid stimulus-evoked astrocyte Ca2+ elevations and hemodynamic responses in mouse somatosensory cortex in vivo. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2013; 110:E4678-87. [PMID: 24218625 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1310065110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased neuron and astrocyte activity triggers increased brain blood flow, but controversy exists over whether stimulation-induced changes in astrocyte activity are rapid and widespread enough to contribute to brain blood flow control. Here, we provide evidence for stimulus-evoked Ca(2+) elevations with rapid onset and short duration in a large proportion of cortical astrocytes in the adult mouse somatosensory cortex. Our improved detection of the fast Ca(2+) signals is due to a signal-enhancing analysis of the Ca(2+) activity. The rapid stimulation-evoked Ca(2+) increases identified in astrocyte somas, processes, and end-feet preceded local vasodilatation. Fast Ca(2+) responses in both neurons and astrocytes correlated with synaptic activity, but only the astrocytic responses correlated with the hemodynamic shifts. These data establish that a large proportion of cortical astrocytes have brief Ca(2+) responses with a rapid onset in vivo, fast enough to initiate hemodynamic responses or influence synaptic activity.
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73
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Li D, Agulhon C, Schmidt E, Oheim M, Ropert N. New tools for investigating astrocyte-to-neuron communication. Front Cell Neurosci 2013; 7:193. [PMID: 24194698 PMCID: PMC3810613 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2013.00193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2013] [Accepted: 10/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Gray matter protoplasmic astrocytes extend very thin processes and establish close contacts with synapses. It has been suggested that the release of neuroactive gliotransmitters at the tripartite synapse contributes to information processing. However, the concept of calcium (Ca2+)-dependent gliotransmitter release from astrocytes, and the release mechanisms are being debated. Studying astrocytes in their natural environment is challenging because: (i) astrocytes are electrically silent; (ii) astrocytes and neurons express an overlapping repertoire of transmembrane receptors; (iii) the size of astrocyte processes in contact with synapses are below the resolution of confocal and two-photon microscopes (iv) bulk-loading techniques using fluorescent Ca2+ indicators lack cellular specificity. In this review, we will discuss some limitations of conventional methodologies and highlight the interest of novel tools and approaches for studying gliotransmission. Genetically encoded Ca2+ indicators (GECIs), light-gated channels, and exogenous receptors are being developed to selectively read out and stimulate astrocyte activity. Our review discusses emerging perspectives on: (i) the complexity of astrocyte Ca2+ signaling revealed by GECIs; (ii) new pharmacogenetic and optogenetic approaches to activate specific Ca2+ signaling pathways in astrocytes; (iii) classical and new techniques to monitor vesicle fusion in cultured astrocytes; (iv) possible strategies to express specifically reporter genes in astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongdong Li
- Biophysics of Gliotransmitter Release Team, Laboratory of Neurophysiology and New Microscopies, INSERM U603, CNRS UMR 8154, University Paris Descartes Paris, France
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74
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Nizar K, Uhlirova H, Tian P, Saisan PA, Cheng Q, Reznichenko L, Weldy KL, Steed TC, Sridhar VB, MacDonald CL, Cui J, Gratiy SL, Sakadžić S, Boas DA, Beka TI, Einevoll GT, Chen J, Masliah E, Dale AM, Silva GA, Devor A. In vivo stimulus-induced vasodilation occurs without IP3 receptor activation and may precede astrocytic calcium increase. J Neurosci 2013; 33:8411-22. [PMID: 23658179 PMCID: PMC3712855 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3285-12.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2012] [Revised: 03/31/2013] [Accepted: 04/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium-dependent release of vasoactive gliotransmitters is widely assumed to trigger vasodilation associated with rapid increases in neuronal activity. Inconsistent with this hypothesis, intact stimulus-induced vasodilation was observed in inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP3) type-2 receptor (R2) knock-out (KO) mice, in which the primary mechanism of astrocytic calcium increase-the release of calcium from intracellular stores following activation of an IP3-dependent pathway-is lacking. Further, our results in wild-type (WT) mice indicate that in vivo onset of astrocytic calcium increase in response to sensory stimulus could be considerably delayed relative to the simultaneously measured onset of arteriolar dilation. Delayed calcium increases in WT mice were observed in both astrocytic cell bodies and perivascular endfeet. Thus, astrocytes may not play a role in the initiation of blood flow response, at least not via calcium-dependent mechanisms. Moreover, an increase in astrocytic intracellular calcium was not required for normal vasodilation in the IP3R2-KO animals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Peifang Tian
- Neurosciences
- Department of Physics, John Carroll University, University Heights, Ohio 44118
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Sava Sakadžić
- Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129, and
| | - David A. Boas
- Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129, and
| | - Thomas I. Beka
- Neurosciences
- CIGENE, Department of Mathematical Sciences and Technology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, N-1432 As, Norway
| | - Gaute T. Einevoll
- CIGENE, Department of Mathematical Sciences and Technology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, N-1432 As, Norway
| | | | | | | | - Gabriel A. Silva
- Bioengineering
- Ophthalmology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093
| | - Anna Devor
- Departments of Radiology
- Neurosciences
- Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129, and
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75
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Sun D, Qu J, Jakobs TC. Reversible reactivity by optic nerve astrocytes. Glia 2013; 61:1218-35. [PMID: 23650091 DOI: 10.1002/glia.22507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2012] [Accepted: 03/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Reactive astrocytes are typically studied in models that cause irreversible mechanical damage to axons, neuronal cell bodies, and glia. Here, we evaluated the response of astrocytes in the optic nerve head to a subtle injury induced by a brief, mild elevation of the intraocular pressure. Astrocytes demonstrated reactive remodeling that peaked at three days, showing hypertrophy, process retraction, and simplification of their shape. This was not accompanied by any significant changes in the gene expression profile. At no time was there discernible damage to the optic axons, as evidenced by electron microscopy and normal anterograde and retrograde transport. Remarkably, the morphological remodeling was reversible. These findings underscore the plastic nature of reactivity. They show that reactivity can resolve fully if the insult is removed, and suggest that reactivity per se is not necessarily deleterious to axons. This reaction may represent very early events in the sequence that eventually leads to glial scarring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Sun
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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76
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Shigetomi E, Bushong EA, Haustein MD, Tong X, Jackson-Weaver O, Kracun S, Xu J, Sofroniew MV, Ellisman MH, Khakh BS. Imaging calcium microdomains within entire astrocyte territories and endfeet with GCaMPs expressed using adeno-associated viruses. J Gen Physiol 2013; 141:633-47. [PMID: 23589582 PMCID: PMC3639581 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201210949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 264] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2012] [Accepted: 03/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracellular Ca(2+) transients are considered a primary signal by which astrocytes interact with neurons and blood vessels. With existing commonly used methods, Ca(2+) has been studied only within astrocyte somata and thick branches, leaving the distal fine branchlets and endfeet that are most proximate to neuronal synapses and blood vessels largely unexplored. Here, using cytosolic and membrane-tethered forms of genetically encoded Ca(2+) indicators (GECIs; cyto-GCaMP3 and Lck-GCaMP3), we report well-characterized approaches that overcome these limitations. We used in vivo microinjections of adeno-associated viruses to express GECIs in astrocytes and studied Ca(2+) signals in acute hippocampal slices in vitro from adult mice (aged ∼P80) two weeks after infection. Our data reveal a sparkling panorama of unexpectedly numerous, frequent, equivalently scaled, and highly localized Ca(2+) microdomains within entire astrocyte territories in situ within acute hippocampal slices, consistent with the distribution of perisynaptic branchlets described using electron microscopy. Signals from endfeet were revealed with particular clarity. The tools and experimental approaches we describe in detail allow for the systematic study of Ca(2+) signals within entire astrocytes, including within fine perisynaptic branchlets and vessel-associated endfeet, permitting rigorous evaluation of how astrocytes contribute to brain function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiji Shigetomi
- Department of Physiology and 2 Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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Liu QL, Fan M, Bian W, Shuang SM, Dong C. Synthesis of a new ratiometric emission Ca2+ indicator for in vivo bioimaging. CHINESE CHEM LETT 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cclet.2012.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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78
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Morrison HW, Filosa JA. A quantitative spatiotemporal analysis of microglia morphology during ischemic stroke and reperfusion. J Neuroinflammation 2013; 10:4. [PMID: 23311642 PMCID: PMC3570327 DOI: 10.1186/1742-2094-10-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 371] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2012] [Accepted: 12/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microglia cells continuously survey the healthy brain in a ramified morphology and, in response to injury, undergo progressive morphological and functional changes that encompass microglia activation. Although ideally positioned for immediate response to ischemic stroke (IS) and reperfusion, their progressive morphological transformation into activated cells has not been quantified. In addition, it is not well understood if diverse microglia morphologies correlate to diverse microglia functions. As such, the dichotomous nature of these cells continues to confound our understanding of microglia-mediated injury after IS and reperfusion. The purpose of this study was to quantitatively characterize the spatiotemporal pattern of microglia morphology during the evolution of cerebral injury after IS and reperfusion. METHODS Male C57Bl/6 mice were subjected to focal cerebral ischemia and periods of reperfusion (0, 8 and 24 h). The microglia process length/cell and number of endpoints/cell was quantified from immunofluorescent confocal images of brain regions using a skeleton analysis method developed for this study. Live cell morphology and process activity were measured from movies acquired in acute brain slices from GFP-CX3CR1 transgenic mice after IS and 24-h reperfusion. Regional CD11b and iNOS expressions were measured from confocal images and Western blot, respectively, to assess microglia proinflammatory function. RESULTS Quantitative analysis reveals a significant spatiotemporal relationship between microglia morphology and evolving cerebral injury in the ipsilateral hemisphere after IS and reperfusion. Microglia were both hyper- and de-ramified in striatal and cortical brain regions (respectively) after 60 min of focal cerebral ischemia. However, a de-ramified morphology was prominent when ischemia was coupled to reperfusion. Live microglia were de-ramified, and, in addition, process activity was severely blunted proximal to the necrotic core after IS and 24 h of reperfusion. CD11b expression, but not iNOS expression, was increased in regions of hyper- and de-ramified microglia during the course of ischemic stroke and 24 h of reperfusion. CONCLUSIONS Our findings illustrate that microglia activation after stroke includes both increased and decreased cell ramification. Importantly, quantitative analyses of microglial morphology and activity are feasible and, in future studies, would assist in the comprehensive identification and stratification of their dichotomous contribution toward cerebral injury and recovery during IS and reperfusion.
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79
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Liu Q, Bian W, Shi H, Fan L, Shuang S, Dong C, Choi MMF. A novel ratiometric emission probe for Ca2+in living cells. Org Biomol Chem 2013. [DOI: 10.1039/c2ob26888d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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80
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Tong X, Shigetomi E, Looger LL, Khakh BS. Genetically Encoded Calcium Indicators and Astrocyte Calcium Microdomains. Neuroscientist 2012; 19:274-91. [DOI: 10.1177/1073858412468794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of intracellular Ca2+ signals within astrocytes has changed our view of how these ubiquitous cells contribute to brain function. Classically thought merely to serve supportive functions, astrocytes are increasingly thought to respond to, and regulate, neurons. The use of organic Ca2+ indicator dyes such as Fluo-4 and Fura-2 has proved instrumental in the study of astrocyte physiology. However, progress has recently been accelerated by the use of cytosolic and membrane targeted genetically encoded calcium indicators (GECIs). Herein, we review these recent findings, discuss why studying astrocyte Ca2+ signals is important to understand brain function, and summarize work that led to the discovery of TRPA1 channel-mediated near-membrane Ca2+ signals in astrocytes and their indirect neuromodulatory roles at inhibitory synapses in the CA1 stratum radiatum region of the hippocampus. We suggest that the use of membrane-targeted and cytosolic GECIs holds great promise to explore the diversity of Ca2+ signals within single astrocytes and also to study diversity of function for astrocytes in different parts of the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping Tong
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eiji Shigetomi
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi Chuo, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Loren L. Looger
- Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Baljit S. Khakh
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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81
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Pannasch U, Sibille J, Rouach N. Dual electrophysiological recordings of synaptically-evoked astroglial and neuronal responses in acute hippocampal slices. J Vis Exp 2012:e4418. [PMID: 23222635 PMCID: PMC3564483 DOI: 10.3791/4418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes form together with neurons tripartite synapses, where they integrate and modulate neuronal activity. Indeed, astrocytes sense neuronal inputs through activation of their ion channels and neurotransmitter receptors, and process information in part through activity-dependent release of gliotransmitters. Furthermore, astrocytes constitute the main uptake system for glutamate, contribute to potassium spatial buffering, as well as to GABA clearance. These cells therefore constantly monitor synaptic activity, and are thereby sensitive indicators for alterations in synaptically-released glutamate, GABA and extracellular potassium levels. Additionally, alterations in astroglial uptake activity or buffering capacity can have severe effects on neuronal functions, and might be overlooked when characterizing physiopathological situations or knockout mice. Dual recording of neuronal and astroglial activities is therefore an important method to study alterations in synaptic strength associated to concomitant changes in astroglial uptake and buffering capacities. Here we describe how to prepare hippocampal slices, how to identify stratum radiatum astrocytes, and how to record simultaneously neuronal and astroglial electrophysiological responses. Furthermore, we describe how to isolate pharmacologically the synaptically-evoked astroglial currents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Pannasch
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiopathology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Collège de France, France
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82
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Xie AX, Sun MY, Murphy T, Lauderdale K, Tiglao E, Fiacco TA. Bidirectional scaling of astrocytic metabotropic glutamate receptor signaling following long-term changes in neuronal firing rates. PLoS One 2012; 7:e49637. [PMID: 23166735 PMCID: PMC3499417 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0049637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2012] [Accepted: 10/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Very little is known about the ability of astrocytic receptors to exhibit plasticity as a result of changes in neuronal activity. Here we provide evidence for bidirectional scaling of astrocytic group I metabotropic glutamate receptor signaling in acute mouse hippocampal slices following long-term changes in neuronal firing rates. Plasticity of astrocytic mGluRs was measured by recording spontaneous and evoked Ca2+ elevations in both astrocytic somata and processes. An exogenous astrocytic Gq G protein-coupled receptor was resistant to scaling, suggesting that the alterations in astrocyte Ca2+ signaling result from changes in activity of the surface mGluRs rather than a change in intracellular G protein signaling molecules. These findings suggest that astrocytes actively detect shifts in neuronal firing rates and adjust their receptor signaling accordingly. This type of long-term plasticity in astrocytes resembles neuronal homeostatic plasticity and might be important to ensure an optimal or expected level of input from neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison X. Xie
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Min-Yu Sun
- Graduate Program in Cellular, Molecular, and Developmental Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Thomas Murphy
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Kelli Lauderdale
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth Tiglao
- Undergraduate Neuroscience Major, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Todd A. Fiacco
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience and Center for Glial-Neuronal Interactions, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Tamamushi S, Nakamura T, Inoue T, Ebisui E, Sugiura K, Bannai H, Mikoshiba K. Type 2 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor is predominantly involved in agonist-induced Ca2+ signaling in Bergmann glia. Neurosci Res 2012; 74:32-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2012.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2012] [Accepted: 06/27/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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84
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Arizono M, Bannai H, Nakamura K, Niwa F, Enomoto M, Matsu-Ura T, Miyamoto A, Sherwood MW, Nakamura T, Mikoshiba K. Receptor-selective diffusion barrier enhances sensitivity of astrocytic processes to metabotropic glutamate receptor stimulation. Sci Signal 2012; 5:ra27. [PMID: 22472649 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.2002498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR)-dependent calcium ion (Ca²+) signaling in astrocytic processes regulates synaptic transmission and local blood flow essential for brain function. However, because of difficulties in imaging astrocytic processes, the subcellular spatial organization of mGluR-dependent Ca²+ signaling is not well characterized and its regulatory mechanism remains unclear. Using genetically encoded Ca²+ indicators, we showed that despite global stimulation by an mGluR agonist, astrocyte processes intrinsically exhibited a marked enrichment of Ca²+ responses. Immunocytochemistry indicated that these polarized Ca²+ responses could be attributed to increased density of surface mGluR5 on processes relative to the soma. Single-particle tracking of surface mGluR5 dynamics revealed a membrane barrier that blocked the movement of mGluR5 between the processes and the soma. Overexpression of mGluR or expression of its carboxyl terminus enabled diffusion of mGluR5 between the soma and the processes, disrupting the polarization of mGluR5 and of mGluR-dependent Ca²+ signaling. Together, our results demonstrate an mGluR5-selective diffusion barrier between processes and soma that compartmentalized mGluR Ca²+ signaling in astrocytes and may allow control of synaptic and vascular activity in specific subcellular domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misa Arizono
- Laboratory for Developmental Neurobiology, Brain Science Institute, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
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Kato F, Shigetomi E. [Synaptic regulation by astrocytes]. Nihon Yakurigaku Zasshi 2012; 138:161-5. [PMID: 21986065 DOI: 10.1254/fpj.138.161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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86
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TRPA1 channels regulate astrocyte resting calcium and inhibitory synapse efficacy through GAT-3. Nat Neurosci 2011; 15:70-80. [PMID: 22158513 PMCID: PMC3282183 DOI: 10.1038/nn.3000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 334] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2011] [Accepted: 11/01/2011] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes contribute to the formation and function of synapses and are found throughout the brain, where they show intracellular store-mediated Ca(2+) signals. Here, using a membrane-tethered, genetically encoded calcium indicator (Lck-GCaMP3), we report the serendipitous discovery of a new type of Ca(2+) signal in rat hippocampal astrocyte-neuron cocultures. We found that Ca(2+) fluxes mediated by transient receptor potential A1 (TRPA1) channels gave rise to frequent and highly localized 'spotty' Ca(2+) microdomains near the membrane that contributed appreciably to resting Ca(2+) in astrocytes. Mechanistic evaluations in brain slices showed that decreases in astrocyte resting Ca(2+) concentrations mediated by TRPA1 channels decreased interneuron inhibitory synapse efficacy by reducing GABA transport by GAT-3, thus elevating extracellular GABA. Our data show how a transmembrane Ca(2+) source (TRPA1) targets a transporter (GAT-3) in astrocytes to regulate inhibitory synapses.
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87
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Petzold GC, Murthy VN. Role of astrocytes in neurovascular coupling. Neuron 2011; 71:782-97. [PMID: 21903073 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2011.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 285] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/15/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Neural activity is intimately tied to blood flow in the brain. This coupling is specific enough in space and time that modern imaging methods use local hemodynamics as a measure of brain activity. In this review, we discuss recent evidence indicating that neuronal activity is coupled to local blood flow changes through an intermediary, the astrocyte. We highlight unresolved issues regarding the role of astrocytes and propose ways to address them using novel techniques. Our focus is on cellular level analysis in vivo, but we also relate mechanistic insights gained from ex vivo experiments to native tissue. We also review some strategies to harness advances in optical and genetic methods to study neurovascular coupling in the intact brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabor C Petzold
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Ludwig-Erhard-Allee 2, 53175 Bonn, Germany.
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