51
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Rabah Y, Rubino B, Moukarzel E, Agulhon C. Characterization of transgenic mouse lines for selectively targeting satellite glial cells and macrophages in dorsal root ganglia. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229475. [PMID: 32915783 PMCID: PMC7485865 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The importance of glial cells in the modulation of neuronal processes is now generally accepted. In particular, enormous progress in our understanding of astrocytes and microglia physiology in the central nervous system (CNS) has been made in recent years, due to the development of genetic and molecular toolkits. However, the roles of satellite glial cells (SGCs) and macrophages-the peripheral counterparts of astrocytes and microglia-remain poorly studied despite their involvement in debilitating conditions, such as pain. Here, we characterized in dorsal root ganglia (DRGs), different genetically-modified mouse lines previously used for studying astrocytes and microglia, with the goal to implement them for investigating DRG SGC and macrophage functions. Although SGCs and astrocytes share some molecular properties, most tested transgenic lines were found to not be suitable for studying selectively a large number of SGCs within DRGs. Nevertheless, we identified and validated two mouse lines: (i) a CreERT2 recombinase-based mouse line allowing transgene expression almost exclusively in SGCs and in the vast majority of SGCs, and (ii) a GFP-expressing line allowing the selective visualization of macrophages. In conclusion, among the tools available for exploring astrocyte functions, a few can be used for studying selectively a great proportion of SGCs. Thus, efforts remain to be made to characterize other available mouse lines as well as to develop, rigorously characterize and validate new molecular tools to investigate the roles of DRG SGCs, but also macrophages, in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmine Rabah
- Integrative Neuroscience and Cognition Center (CNRS UMR8002), Glia-Glia & Glia-Neuron Interactions Laboratory, Faculty of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Bruna Rubino
- Integrative Neuroscience and Cognition Center (CNRS UMR8002), Glia-Glia & Glia-Neuron Interactions Laboratory, Faculty of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Elsie Moukarzel
- Integrative Neuroscience and Cognition Center (CNRS UMR8002), Glia-Glia & Glia-Neuron Interactions Laboratory, Faculty of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Cendra Agulhon
- Integrative Neuroscience and Cognition Center (CNRS UMR8002), Glia-Glia & Glia-Neuron Interactions Laboratory, Faculty of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
- * E-mail:
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52
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Verkhratsky A, Semyanov A, Zorec R. Physiology of Astroglial Excitability. FUNCTION (OXFORD, ENGLAND) 2020; 1:zqaa016. [PMID: 35330636 PMCID: PMC8788756 DOI: 10.1093/function/zqaa016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Classic physiology divides all neural cells into excitable neurons and nonexcitable neuroglia. Neuroglial cells, chiefly responsible for homeostasis and defense of the nervous tissue, coordinate their complex homeostatic responses with neuronal activity. This coordination reflects a specific form of glial excitability mediated by complex changes in intracellular concentration of ions and second messengers organized in both space and time. Astrocytes are equipped with multiple molecular cascades, which are central for regulating homeostasis of neurotransmitters, ionostasis, synaptic connectivity, and metabolic support of the central nervous system. Astrocytes are further provisioned with multiple receptors for neurotransmitters and neurohormones, which upon activation trigger intracellular signals mediated by Ca2+, Na+, and cyclic AMP. Calcium signals have distinct organization and underlying mechanisms in different astrocytic compartments thus allowing complex spatiotemporal signaling. Signals mediated by fluctuations in cytosolic Na+ are instrumental for coordination of Na+ dependent astrocytic transporters with tissue state and homeostatic demands. Astroglial ionic excitability may also involve K+, H+, and Cl-. The cyclic AMP signalling system is, in comparison to ions, much slower in targeting astroglial effector mechanisms. This evidence review summarizes the concept of astroglial intracellular excitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexei Verkhratsky
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK,Achucarro Center for Neuroscience, Ikerbasque, 48011 Bilbao, Spain,Address correspondence to A.V. (e-mail: )
| | - Alexey Semyanov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 117997, Russia,Faculty of Biology, Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia,Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Robert Zorec
- Celica Biomedical, Ljubljana 1000, Slovenia,Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana 1000, Slovenia
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53
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Semyanov A, Henneberger C, Agarwal A. Making sense of astrocytic calcium signals — from acquisition to interpretation. Nat Rev Neurosci 2020; 21:551-564. [DOI: 10.1038/s41583-020-0361-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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54
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Guillot de Suduiraut I, Grosse J, Ramos-Fernández E, Sandi C, Hollis F. Astrocytic release of ATP through type 2 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor calcium signaling and social dominance behavior in mice. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 53:2973-2985. [PMID: 32609904 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Brain mitochondrial function is critical for numerous neuronal processes. We recently identified a link between brain energy and social dominance, where higher levels of mitochondrial function resulted in increased social competitive ability. The underlying mechanism of this link, however, remains unclear. Here, we investigated the contribution of astrocytic release of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) through the type 2 inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptor to social dominance behavior. Mice lacking the type 2 inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptor were characterized for their social dominance behavior, as well as their performance on a nonsocial task, the Morris Water Maze. In parallel, we also examined mitochondrial function in the medial prefrontal cortex, nucleus accumbens, and hippocampus to investigate how deficiencies in astrocytic ATP could modulate overall mitochondrial function. While knockout mice showed similar competitive ability compared with their wild-type littermates, dominant knockout mice exhibited a significant delay in exerting their dominance during the initial encounter. Otherwise, there were no differences in anxiety and exploratory traits, spatial learning and memory, or brain mitochondrial function in either light or dark circadian phases. Our findings point to a marginal role of astrocytic ATP through IP3 R2 in social competition, suggesting that, under basal conditions, the neuronal compartment is predominant for social dominance exertion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jocelyn Grosse
- Brain Mind Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eva Ramos-Fernández
- Brain Mind Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Carmen Sandi
- Brain Mind Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Fiona Hollis
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia
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55
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Deciphering the star codings: astrocyte manipulation alters mouse behavior. Exp Mol Med 2020; 52:1028-1038. [PMID: 32665584 PMCID: PMC8080576 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-020-0468-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes occupy a vast area within the central nervous system (CNS). Despite their abundance, the functional role of astrocytes in vivo has only begun to be uncovered. Astrocytes were typically thought to be involved in pathophysiological states. However, recent studies have shown that astrocytes are actively involved in cell signaling in normal physiological states; manipulating various aspects of astrocytic cell signaling in vivo has revealed that astrocytes are key players in controlling healthy behavior in the absence of pathophysiology. Unfortunately, the study of astrocyte function is often limited by the number of approaches available due to our lack of understanding of cell physiology. This review summarizes recent studies in which altered astrocyte signaling capacity resulted in dramatic changes in behavior. We not only discuss the methodologies available to manipulate astrocytes but also provide insights into the behavioral roles of astrocytes in the CNS. Genetic studies provide increased evidence that astrocytes, star-shaped cells in the central nervous system, play important roles affecting behavior in mammals. Although they are just as abundant as neurons, astrocytes are not excited by electrical signals. For this reason they have traditionally been regarded simply as ‘support cells’ for neurons, but recent evidence suggests that they can significantly modulate neuron signals. A review paper by Keebum Park and Sung Joong Lee at Seoul National University in South Korea highlights improved methods for monitoring the signaling processes related to astrocytes, which manifest most notably through sharp changes in calcium levels. Several studies have used genetic knockout mice, designer drugs and light-sensitive proteins to change astrocyte activity, affecting a diverse range of behaviors including sleeping and feeding patterns, memory formation, depression and obsessive compulsive disorder.
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56
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Guerra-Gomes S, Cunha-Garcia D, Marques Nascimento DS, Duarte-Silva S, Loureiro-Campos E, Morais Sardinha V, Viana JF, Sousa N, Maciel P, Pinto L, Oliveira JF. IP 3 R2 null mice display a normal acquisition of somatic and neurological development milestones. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 54:5673-5686. [PMID: 32166822 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are key players in the regulation of brain development and function. They sense and respond to the surrounding activity by elevating their intracellular calcium (Ca2+ ) levels. These astrocytic Ca2+ elevations emerge from different sources and display complex spatio-temporal properties. Ca2+ elevations are spatially distributed in global (soma and main processes) and/or focal regions (microdomains). The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor type 2 knockout (IP3 R2 KO) mouse model lacks global Ca2+ elevations in astrocytes, and it has been used by different laboratories. However, the constitutive deletion of IP3 R2 during development may trigger compensating phenotypes, which could bias the results of experiments using developing or adult mice. To address this issue, we performed a detailed neurodevelopmental evaluation of male and female IP3 R2 KO mice, during the first 21 days of life, as well as an evaluation of motor function, strength and neurological reflexes in adult mice. Our results show that male and female IP3 R2 KO mice display a normal acquisition of developmental milestones, as compared with wild-type (WT) mice. We also show that IP3 R2 KO mice display normal motor coordination, strength and neurological reflexes in adulthood. To exclude a potential compensatory overexpression of other IP3 Rs, we quantified the relative mRNA levels of all 3 subtypes, in brain tissue. We found that, along with the complete deletion of Itpr2, there is no compensatory expression of Itpr1 or Itrp3. Overall, our results show that the IP3 R2 KO mouse is a reliable model to study the functional impact of global IP3 R2-dependent astrocytic Ca2+ elevations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sónia Guerra-Gomes
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Daniela Cunha-Garcia
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Diana Sofia Marques Nascimento
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Sara Duarte-Silva
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Eduardo Loureiro-Campos
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Vanessa Morais Sardinha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - João Filipe Viana
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Nuno Sousa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Maciel
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Luísa Pinto
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - João Filipe Oliveira
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.,Applied Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, IPCA-EST-2Ai, Polytechnic Institute of Cávado and Ave, Barcelos, Portugal
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57
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Kofuji P, Araque A. G-Protein-Coupled Receptors in Astrocyte-Neuron Communication. Neuroscience 2020; 456:71-84. [PMID: 32224231 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes, a major type of glial cell, are known to play key supportive roles in brain function, contributing to ion and neurotransmitter homeostasis, maintaining the blood-brain barrier and providing trophic and metabolic support for neurons. Besides these support functions, astrocytes are emerging as important elements in brain physiology through signaling exchange with neurons at tripartite synapses. Astrocytes express a wide variety of neurotransmitter transporters and receptors that allow them to sense and respond to synaptic activity. Principal among them are the G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in astrocytes because their activation by synaptically released neurotransmitters leads to mobilization of intracellular calcium. In turn, activated astrocytes release neuroactive substances called gliotransmitters, such as glutamate, GABA, and ATP/adenosine that lead to synaptic regulation through activation of neuronal GPCRs. In this review we will present and discuss recent evidence demonstrating the critical roles played by GPCRs in the bidirectional astrocyte-neuron signaling, and their crucial involvement in the astrocyte-mediated regulation of synaptic transmission and plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Kofuji
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - Alfonso Araque
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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58
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Corkrum M, Covelo A, Lines J, Bellocchio L, Pisansky M, Loke K, Quintana R, Rothwell PE, Lujan R, Marsicano G, Martin ED, Thomas MJ, Kofuji P, Araque A. Dopamine-Evoked Synaptic Regulation in the Nucleus Accumbens Requires Astrocyte Activity. Neuron 2020; 105:1036-1047.e5. [PMID: 31954621 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2019.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Dopamine is involved in physiological processes like learning and memory, motor control and reward, and pathological conditions such as Parkinson's disease and addiction. In contrast to the extensive studies on neurons, astrocyte involvement in dopaminergic signaling remains largely unknown. Using transgenic mice, optogenetics, and pharmacogenetics, we studied the role of astrocytes on the dopaminergic system. We show that in freely behaving mice, astrocytes in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), a key reward center in the brain, respond with Ca2+ elevations to synaptically released dopamine, a phenomenon enhanced by amphetamine. In brain slices, synaptically released dopamine increases astrocyte Ca2+, stimulates ATP/adenosine release, and depresses excitatory synaptic transmission through activation of presynaptic A1 receptors. Amphetamine depresses neurotransmission through stimulation of astrocytes and the consequent A1 receptor activation. Furthermore, astrocytes modulate the acute behavioral psychomotor effects of amphetamine. Therefore, astrocytes mediate the dopamine- and amphetamine-induced synaptic regulation, revealing a novel cellular pathway in the brain reward system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Corkrum
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Ana Covelo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie, Bordeaux Cedex 33077, France; University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux 33000, France
| | - Justin Lines
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Luigi Bellocchio
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie, Bordeaux Cedex 33077, France; University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux 33000, France
| | - Marc Pisansky
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Kelvin Loke
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Ruth Quintana
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Patrick E Rothwell
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Rafael Lujan
- Instituto de Investigación en Discapacidades Neurológicas (IDINE), Universidad Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete 02008, Spain
| | - Giovanni Marsicano
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie, Bordeaux Cedex 33077, France; University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux 33000, France
| | | | - Mark J Thomas
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Paulo Kofuji
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Alfonso Araque
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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59
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Heuser K, Nome CG, Pettersen KH, Åbjørsbråten KS, Jensen V, Tang W, Sprengel R, Taubøll E, Nagelhus EA, Enger R. Ca2+ Signals in Astrocytes Facilitate Spread of Epileptiform Activity. Cereb Cortex 2019; 28:4036-4048. [PMID: 30169757 PMCID: PMC6188565 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhy196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Epileptic seizures are associated with increased astrocytic Ca2+ signaling, but the fine spatiotemporal kinetics of the ictal astrocyte–neuron interplay remains elusive. By using 2-photon imaging of awake head-fixed mice with chronic hippocampal windows we demonstrate that astrocytic Ca2+ signals precede neuronal Ca2+ elevations during the initial bout of kainate-induced seizures. On average, astrocytic Ca2+ elevations preceded neuronal activity in CA1 by about 8 s. In subsequent bouts of epileptic seizures, astrocytes and neurons were activated simultaneously. The initial astrocytic Ca2+ elevation was abolished in mice lacking the type 2 inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate-receptor (Itpr2−/−). Furthermore, we found that Itpr2−/− mice exhibited 60% less epileptiform activity compared with wild-type mice when assessed by telemetric EEG monitoring. In both genotypes we also demonstrate that spreading depression waves may play a part in seizure termination. Our findings imply a role for astrocytic Ca2+ signals in ictogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kjell Heuser
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Cecilie G Nome
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Klas H Pettersen
- Letten Centre and GliaLab, Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Knut S Åbjørsbråten
- Letten Centre and GliaLab, Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Vidar Jensen
- Letten Centre and GliaLab, Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Wannan Tang
- Letten Centre and GliaLab, Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rolf Sprengel
- Max Planck Research Group "Molecular Neurobiology" at the Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Erik Taubøll
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Erlend A Nagelhus
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway.,Letten Centre and GliaLab, Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rune Enger
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway.,Letten Centre and GliaLab, Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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60
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Abstract
In the body, extracellular stimuli produce inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3), an intracellular chemical signal that binds to the IP3 receptor (IP3R) to release calcium ions (Ca2+) from the endoplasmic reticulum. In the past 40 years, the wide-ranging functions mediated by IP3R and its genetic defects causing a variety of disorders have been unveiled. Recent cryo-electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography have resolved IP3R structures and begun to integrate with concurrent functional studies, which can explicate IP3-dependent opening of Ca2+-conducting gates placed ∼90 Å away from IP3-binding sites and its regulation by Ca2+. This review highlights recent research progress on the IP3R structure and function. We also propose how protein plasticity within IP3R, which involves allosteric gating and assembly transformations accompanied by rapid and chronic structural changes, would enable it to regulate diverse functions at cellular microdomains in pathophysiological states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kozo Hamada
- Laboratory of Cell Calcium Signaling, Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies (SIAIS), ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China; ,
| | - Katsuhiko Mikoshiba
- Laboratory of Cell Calcium Signaling, Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies (SIAIS), ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China; ,
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61
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Buskila Y, Bellot-Saez A, Morley JW. Generating Brain Waves, the Power of Astrocytes. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1125. [PMID: 31680846 PMCID: PMC6813784 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Synchronization of neuronal activity in the brain underlies the emergence of neuronal oscillations termed “brain waves”, which serve various physiological functions and correlate with different behavioral states. It has been postulated that at least ten distinct mechanisms are involved in the formulation of these brain waves, including variations in the concentration of extracellular neurotransmitters and ions, as well as changes in cellular excitability. In this mini review we highlight the contribution of astrocytes, a subtype of glia, in the formation and modulation of brain waves mainly due to their close association with synapses that allows their bidirectional interaction with neurons, and their syncytium-like activity via gap junctions that facilitate communication to distal brain regions through Ca2+ waves. These capabilities allow astrocytes to regulate neuronal excitability via glutamate uptake, gliotransmission and tight control of the extracellular K+ levels via a process termed K+ clearance. Spatio-temporal synchrony of activity across neuronal and astrocytic networks, both locally and distributed across cortical regions, underpins brain states and thereby behavioral states, and it is becoming apparent that astrocytes play an important role in the development and maintenance of neural activity underlying these complex behavioral states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yossi Buskila
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia.,International Centre for Neuromorphic Systems, The MARCS Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Alba Bellot-Saez
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia.,International Centre for Neuromorphic Systems, The MARCS Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - John W Morley
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
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62
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Verkhratsky A, Parpura V, Vardjan N, Zorec R. Physiology of Astroglia. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1175:45-91. [PMID: 31583584 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-9913-8_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are principal cells responsible for maintaining the brain homeostasis. Additionally, these glial cells are also involved in homocellular (astrocyte-astrocyte) and heterocellular (astrocyte-other cell types) signalling and metabolism. These astroglial functions require an expression of the assortment of molecules, be that transporters or pumps, to maintain ion concentration gradients across the plasmalemma and the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum. Astrocytes sense and balance their neurochemical environment via variety of transmitter receptors and transporters. As they are electrically non-excitable, astrocytes display intracellular calcium and sodium fluctuations, which are not only used for operative signalling but can also affect metabolism. In this chapter we discuss the molecules that achieve ionic gradients and underlie astrocyte signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexei Verkhratsky
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK. .,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Center for Basic and Translational Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Achucarro Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48011, Bilbao, Spain.
| | - Vladimir Parpura
- Department of Neurobiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Nina Vardjan
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Celica Biomedical, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Robert Zorec
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Celica Biomedical, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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63
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Pinto-Duarte A, Roberts AJ, Ouyang K, Sejnowski TJ. Impairments in remote memory caused by the lack of Type 2 IP 3 receptors. Glia 2019; 67:1976-1989. [PMID: 31348567 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The second messenger inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3 ) is paramount for signal transduction in biological cells, mediating Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum. Of the three isoforms of IP3 receptors identified in the nervous system, Type 2 (IP3 R2) is the main isoform expressed by astrocytes. The complete lack of IP3 R2 in transgenic mice was shown to significantly disrupt Ca2+ signaling in astrocytes, while leaving neuronal intracellular pathways virtually unperturbed. Whether and how this predominantly nonneuronal receptor might affect long-term memory function has been a matter of intense debate. In this work, we found that the absence of IP3 R2-mediated signaling did not disrupt normal learning or recent (24-48 h) memory. Contrary to expectations, however, mice lacking IP3 R2 exhibited remote (2-4 weeks) memory deficits. Not only did the lack of IP3 R2 impair remote recognition, fear, and spatial memories, but it also prevented naturally occurring post-encoding memory enhancements consequent to memory consolidation. Consistent with the key role played by the downscaling of synaptic transmission in memory consolidation, we found that NMDAR-dependent long-term depression was abnormal in ex vivo hippocampal slices acutely prepared from IP3 R2-deficient mice, a deficit that could be prevented upon supplementation with D-serine - an NMDA-receptor co-agonist whose synthesis depends upon astrocytes' activity. Our results reveal that IP3 R2 activation, which in the brain is paramount for Ca2+ signaling in astrocytes, but not in neurons, can help shape brain plasticity by enhancing the consolidation of newly acquired information into long-term memories that can guide remote cognitive behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- António Pinto-Duarte
- Computational Neurobiology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California.,Institute for Neural Computation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Amanda J Roberts
- Animal Models Core Facility, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
| | - Kunfu Ouyang
- School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, China
| | - Terrence J Sejnowski
- Computational Neurobiology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California.,Institute for Neural Computation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California.,Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
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64
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Khakh BS. Astrocyte-Neuron Interactions in the Striatum: Insights on Identity, Form, and Function. Trends Neurosci 2019; 42:617-630. [PMID: 31351745 PMCID: PMC6741427 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2019.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 06/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The physiological functions of astrocytes within neural circuits remain incompletely understood. There has been progress in this regard from recent work on striatal astrocytes, where detailed studies are emerging. In this review, findings on striatal astrocyte identity, form, and function, are summarized with a focus on how astrocytes regulate striatal neurons, circuits, and behavior. Specific features of striatal astrocytes are highlighted to illustrate how they may be specialized to regulate medium spiny neurons (MSNs) by responding to, and altering, excitation and inhibition. Further experiments should reveal additional mechanisms for astrocyte-neuron interactions in the striatum and potentially reveal insights into the functions of astrocytes in neural circuits more generally.
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Affiliation(s)
- 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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65
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Astrocytic p38α MAPK drives NMDA receptor-dependent long-term depression and modulates long-term memory. Nat Commun 2019; 10:2968. [PMID: 31273206 PMCID: PMC6609681 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-10830-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
NMDA receptor-dependent long-term depression (LTD) in the hippocampus is a well-known form of synaptic plasticity that has been linked to different cognitive functions. The core mechanism for this form of plasticity is thought to be entirely neuronal. However, we now demonstrate that astrocytic activity drives LTD at CA3-CA1 synapses. We have found that LTD induction enhances astrocyte-to-neuron communication mediated by glutamate, and that Ca2+ signaling and SNARE-dependent vesicular release from the astrocyte are required for LTD expression. In addition, using optogenetic techniques, we show that low-frequency astrocytic activation, in the absence of presynaptic activity, is sufficient to induce postsynaptic AMPA receptor removal and LTD expression. Using cell-type-specific gene deletion, we show that astrocytic p38α MAPK is required for the increased astrocytic glutamate release and astrocyte-to-neuron communication during low-frequency stimulation. Accordingly, removal of astrocytic (but not neuronal) p38α abolishes LTD expression. Finally, this mechanism modulates long-term memory in vivo. How astrocytes influence neuronal plasticity remains unclear, as they are typically considered as modulators of core mechanisms driven by neuronal components. Here, authors show that Long-term depression (LTD) induction in the hippocampus triggers calcium signaling in the astrocyte and enhances SNARE-dependent astrocytic glutamate release, which is then responsible for the activation of postsynaptic NMDA receptors and synaptic depression.
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66
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Smith NA, Bekar LK, Nedergaard M. Astrocytic Endocannabinoids Mediate Hippocampal Transient Heterosynaptic Depression. Neurochem Res 2019; 45:100-108. [PMID: 31254249 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-019-02834-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are highly dynamic cells that modulate synaptic transmission within a temporal domain of seconds to minutes in physiological contexts such as Long-Term Potentiation (LTP) and Heterosynaptic Depression (HSD). Recent studies have revealed that astrocytes also modulate a faster form of synaptic activity (milliseconds to seconds) known as Transient Heterosynaptic Depression (tHSD). However, the mechanism underlying astrocytic modulation of tHSD is not fully understood. Are the traditional gliotransmitters ATP or glutamate released via hemichannels/vesicles or are other, yet, unexplored pathways involved? Using various approaches to manipulate astrocytes, including the Krebs cycle inhibitor fluoroacetate, connexin 43/30 double knockout mice (hemichannels), and inositol triphosphate type-2 receptor knockout mice, we confirmed early reports demonstrating that astrocytes are critical for tHSD. We also confirmed the importance of group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) in astrocytic modulation of tHSD using a group II agonist. Using dominant negative SNARE mice, which have disrupted glial vesicle function, we also found that vesicular release of gliotransmitters and activation of adenosine A1 receptors are not required for tHSD. As astrocytes can release lipids upon receptor stimulation, we asked if astrocyte-derived endocannabinoids are involved in tHSD. Interestingly, a cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) antagonist blocked and an inhibitor of the endogenous endocannabinoid 2-arachidonyl glycerol (2-AG) degradation potentiates tHSD in hippocampal slices. Taken together, this study provides the first evidence for group II mGluR-mediated astrocytic endocannabinoids in transiently suppressing presynaptic neurotransmitter release associated with the phenomenon of tHSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan A Smith
- Division of Glia Disease and Therapeutics, Dept. of Neurosurgery, Center for Translational Neuromedicine, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA.
- Center for Neuroscience, Children's Research Institute, Children's National Medical Center, 111 Michigan Ave, Washington, NW, 20010, USA.
- George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, 20052, USA.
| | - Lane K Bekar
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Maiken Nedergaard
- Division of Glia Disease and Therapeutics, Dept. of Neurosurgery, Center for Translational Neuromedicine, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
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Abstract
Conditional Knockout of mGluR5 From Astrocytes During Epilepsy Development Impairs High-Frequency Glutamate Uptake Umpierre AD, West PJ, White JA, et al. J Neurosci. 2019;39(4):727-742. doi:10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1148-18.2018 Astrocyte expression of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) is consistently observed in resected tissue from patients with epilepsy and is equally prevalent in animal models of epilepsy. However, little is known about the functional signaling properties or downstream consequences of astrocyte mGluR5 activation during epilepsy development. In the rodent brain, astrocyte mGluR5 expression is developmentally regulated and confined in expression/function to the first weeks of life, with similar observations made in human control tissue. Herein, we demonstrate that mGluR5 expression and function dramatically increase in a mouse model of temporal lobe epilepsy. Interestingly, in both male and female mice, mGluR5 function persists in the astrocyte throughout the process of epileptogenesis following status epilepticus. However, mGluR5 expression and function are transient in animals that do not develop epilepsy over an equivalent time period, suggesting that patterns of mGluR5expression may signify continuing epilepsy development or its resolution. We demonstrate that, during epileptogenesis, astrocytes reacquire mGluR5-dependent calcium transients following agonist application or synaptic glutamate release, a feature of astrocyte-neuron communication absent since early development. Finally, we find that the selective and conditional knockout of mGluR5 signaling from astrocytes during epilepsy development slows the rate of glutamate clearance through astrocyte glutamate transporters under high-frequency stimulation conditions, a feature that suggests astrocyte mGluR5 expression during epileptogenesis may recapitulate earlier developmental roles in regulating glutamate transporter function.
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68
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Kim Y, Park J, Choi YK. The Role of Astrocytes in the Central Nervous System Focused on BK Channel and Heme Oxygenase Metabolites: A Review. Antioxidants (Basel) 2019; 8:antiox8050121. [PMID: 31060341 PMCID: PMC6562853 DOI: 10.3390/antiox8050121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes outnumber neurons in the human brain, and they play a key role in numerous functions within the central nervous system (CNS), including glutamate, ion (i.e., Ca2+, K+) and water homeostasis, defense against oxidative/nitrosative stress, energy storage, mitochondria biogenesis, scar formation, tissue repair via angiogenesis and neurogenesis, and synapse modulation. After CNS injury, astrocytes communicate with surrounding neuronal and vascular systems, leading to the clearance of disease-specific protein aggregates, such as β-amyloid, and α-synuclein. The astrocytic big conductance K+ (BK) channel plays a role in these processes. Recently, potential therapeutic agents that target astrocytes have been tested for their potential to repair the brain. In this review, we discuss the role of the BK channel and antioxidant agents such as heme oxygenase metabolites following CNS injury. A better understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of astrocytes’ functions in the healthy and diseased brains will greatly contribute to the development of therapeutic approaches following CNS injury, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonghee Kim
- Department of Integrative Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea.
| | - Jinhong Park
- Department of Integrative Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea.
| | - Yoon Kyung Choi
- Department of Integrative Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea.
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69
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Okubo Y, Iino M. Visualization of astrocytic intracellular Ca 2+ mobilization. J Physiol 2019; 598:1671-1681. [PMID: 30825213 DOI: 10.1113/jp277609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes generate robust intracellular Ca2+ concentration changes (Ca2+ signals), which are assumed to regulate astrocytic functions that play crucial roles in the regulation of brain functions. One frequently used strategy for exploring the role of astrocytic Ca2+ signalling is the use of mice deficient in the type 2 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3 R2). These IP3 R2-knockout (KO) mice are reportedly devoid of Ca2+ mobilization from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in astrocytes. However, they have shown no functional deficits in several studies, causing a heated debate as to the functional relevance of ER-mediated Ca2+ signalling in astrocytes. Recently, the assumption that Ca2+ mobilization from the ER is absent in IP3 R2-KO astrocytes has been re-evaluated using intraorganellar Ca2+ imaging techniques. The new results indicated that IP3 R2-independent Ca2+ release may generate Ca2+ nanodomains around the ER, which may help explain the absence of functional deficits in IP3 R2-KO mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yohei Okubo
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 133-0033, Japan
| | - Masamitsu Iino
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, 173-8610, Japan
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70
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Aberrant Calcium Signals in Reactive Astrocytes: A Key Process in Neurological Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20040996. [PMID: 30823575 PMCID: PMC6413203 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20040996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are abundant cells in the brain that regulate multiple aspects of neural tissue homeostasis by providing structural and metabolic support to neurons, maintaining synaptic environments and regulating blood flow. Recent evidence indicates that astrocytes also actively participate in brain functions and play a key role in brain disease by responding to neuronal activities and brain insults. Astrocytes become reactive in response to injury and inflammation, which is typically described as hypertrophy with increased expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Reactive astrocytes are frequently found in many neurological disorders and are a hallmark of brain disease. Furthermore, reactive astrocytes may drive the initiation and progression of disease processes. Recent improvements in the methods to visualize the activity of reactive astrocytes in situ and in vivo have helped elucidate their functions. Ca2+ signals in reactive astrocytes are closely related to multiple aspects of disease and can be a good indicator of disease severity/state. In this review, we summarize recent findings concerning reactive astrocyte Ca2+ signals. We discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying aberrant Ca2+ signals in reactive astrocytes and the functional significance of aberrant Ca2+ signals in neurological disorders.
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71
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Durkee CA, Covelo A, Lines J, Kofuji P, Aguilar J, Araque A. G i/o protein-coupled receptors inhibit neurons but activate astrocytes and stimulate gliotransmission. Glia 2019; 67:1076-1093. [PMID: 30801845 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play key roles in intercellular signaling in the brain. Their effects on cellular function have been largely studied in neurons, but their functional consequences on astrocytes are less known. Using both endogenous and chemogenetic approaches with DREADDs, we have investigated the effects of Gq and Gi/o GPCR activation on astroglial Ca2+ -based activity, gliotransmitter release, and the functional consequences on neuronal electrical activity. We found that while Gq GPCR activation led to cellular activation in both neurons and astrocytes, Gi/o GPCR activation led to cellular inhibition in neurons and cellular activation in astrocytes. Astroglial activation by either Gq or Gi/o protein-mediated signaling stimulated gliotransmitter release, which increased neuronal excitability. Additionally, activation of Gq and Gi/o DREADDs in vivo increased astrocyte Ca2+ activity and modified neuronal network electrical activity. Present results reveal additional complexity of the signaling consequences of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters in astroglia-neuron network operation and brain function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin A Durkee
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Ana Covelo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Justin Lines
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Paulo Kofuji
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Juan Aguilar
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurophysiology, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, Toledo, Spain
| | - Alfonso Araque
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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72
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Gliotransmission: Beyond Black-and-White. J Neurosci 2019; 38:14-25. [PMID: 29298905 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0017-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are highly complex cells with many emerging putative roles in brain function. Of these, gliotransmission (active information transfer from glia to neurons) has probably the widest implications on our understanding of how the brain works: do astrocytes really contribute to information processing within the neural circuitry? "Positive evidence" for this stems from work of multiple laboratories reporting many examples of modulatory chemical signaling from astrocytes to neurons in the timeframe of hundreds of milliseconds to several minutes. This signaling involves, but is not limited to, Ca2+-dependent vesicular transmitter release, and results in a variety of regulatory effects at synapses in many circuits that are abolished by preventing Ca2+ elevations or blocking exocytosis selectively in astrocytes. In striking contradiction, methodologically advanced studies by a few laboratories produced "negative evidence," triggering a heated debate on the actual existence and properties of gliotransmission. In this context, a skeptics' camp arose, eager to dismiss the whole positive evidence based on a number of assumptions behind the negative data, such as the following: (1) deleting a single Ca2+ release pathway (IP3R2) removes all the sources for Ca2+-dependent gliotransmission; (2) stimulating a transgenically expressed Gq-GPCR (MrgA1) mimics the physiological Ca2+ signaling underlying gliotransmitter release; (3) age-dependent downregulation of an endogenous GPCR (mGluR5) questions gliotransmitter release in adulthood; and (4) failure by transcriptome analysis to detect vGluts or canonical synaptic SNAREs in astrocytes proves inexistence/functional irrelevance of vesicular gliotransmitter release. We here discuss how the above assumptions are likely wrong and oversimplistic. In light of the most recent literature, we argue that gliotransmission is a more complex phenomenon than originally thought, possibly consisting of multiple forms and signaling processes, whose correct study and understanding require more sophisticated tools and finer scientific experiments than done until today. Under this perspective, the opposing camps can be reconciled and the field moved forward. Along the path, a more cautious mindset and an attitude to open discussion and mutual respect between opponent laboratories will be good companions.Dual Perspectives Companion Paper: Multiple Lines of Evidence Indicate That Gliotransmission Does Not Occur under Physiological Conditions, by Todd A. Fiacco and Ken D. McCarthy.
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Multiple Lines of Evidence Indicate That Gliotransmission Does Not Occur under Physiological Conditions. J Neurosci 2019; 38:3-13. [PMID: 29298904 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0016-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A major controversy persists within the field of glial biology concerning whether or not, under physiological conditions, neuronal activity leads to Ca2+-dependent release of neurotransmitters from astrocytes, a phenomenon known as gliotransmission. Our perspective is that, while we and others can apply techniques to cause gliotransmission, there is considerable evidence gathered using astrocyte-specific and more physiological approaches which suggests that gliotransmission is a pharmacological phenomenon rather than a physiological process. Approaches providing evidence against gliotransmission include stimulation of Gq-GPCRs expressed only in astrocytes, as well as removal of the primary proposed source of astrocyte Ca2+ responsible for gliotransmission. These approaches contrast with those supportive of gliotransmission, which include mechanical stimulation, strong astrocytic depolarization using whole-cell patch-clamp or optogenetics, uncaging Ca2+ or IP3, chelating Ca2+ using BAPTA, and nonspecific bath application of agonists to receptors expressed by a multitude of cell types. These techniques are not subtle and therefore are not supportive of recent suggestions that gliotransmission requires very specific and delicate temporal and spatial requirements. Other evidence, including lack of propagating Ca2+ waves between astrocytes in healthy tissue, lack of expression of vesicular release machinery, and the demise of the d-serine gliotransmission hypothesis, provides additional evidence against gliotransmission. Overall, the data suggest that Ca2+-dependent release of neurotransmitters is the province of neurons, not astrocytes, in the intact brain under physiological conditions.Dual Perspectives Companion Paper: Gliotransmission: Beyond Black-and-White, by Iaroslav Savtchouk and Andrea Volterra.
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74
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Takei Y. Age-dependent decline in neurogenesis of the hippocampus and extracellular nucleotides. Hum Cell 2019; 32:88-94. [PMID: 30730038 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-019-00241-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
New neurons are continuously generated in the adult brain. This generation primarily occurs in the subventricular zone (SVZ) of the lateral ventricles and the subgranular zone (SGZ) of the hippocampal dentate gyrus. In the SGZ, neural stem cells (NSCs) give rise to glutamatergic granule cells that integrate into the hippocampal circuitry. Reduction of neurogenesis in the hippocampus impairs learning and memory, which suggests that this process is important for adult hippocampal function. Indeed, the neurogenesis is reduced in the progression of aging, which is thought to contribute to age-related cognitive impairment. Although the mechanism of age-dependent decline in neurogenesis remains largely obscure, astrocytes are thought to play a vital role in regulating NSC proliferation and differentiation. Both astrocytes and NSCs secrete nucleotides to the extracellular space and extracellular nucleotides bind to their receptors on the surface of target cells. In this review, the recent knowledge on adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus is summarized briefly, and possible role of extracellular nucleotides in the age-dependent changes of the adult neurogenesis is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinori Takei
- Department of Nanobio Drug Discovery, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Kyoto University, 46-29, Shimo-adachi-cho, Yoshida, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan.
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75
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Monitoring Interneuron-Astrocyte Signaling and Its Consequences on Synaptic Transmission. Methods Mol Biol 2019; 1938:117-129. [PMID: 30617977 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-9068-9_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Whole-cell patch clamp allows the characterization of synaptic transmission in neurons. It is possible to manipulate astrocytic activity and record how these glial cells affect neuronal networks. Here we describe the methodology to monitor the endogenously activation of astrocytes by inhibitory synaptic activity. Afterward, such glial activation will let us study the consequences of interneuron-astrocyte signaling on excitatory neurotransmission at hippocampal synapses.
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76
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Guerra-Gomes S, Viana JF, Nascimento DSM, Correia JS, Sardinha VM, Caetano I, Sousa N, Pinto L, Oliveira JF. The Role of Astrocytic Calcium Signaling in the Aged Prefrontal Cortex. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 12:379. [PMID: 30455631 PMCID: PMC6230990 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is a lifelong process characterized by cognitive decline putatively due to structural and functional changes of neural circuits of the brain. Neuron-glial signaling is a fundamental component of structure and function of circuits of the brain, and yet its possible role in aging remains elusive. Significantly, neuron-glial networks of the prefrontal cortex undergo age-related alterations that can affect cognitive function, and disruption of glial calcium signaling has been linked with cognitive performance. Motivated by these observations, we explored the possible role of glia in cognition during aging, considering a mouse model where astrocytes lacked IP3R2-dependent Ca2+ signaling. Contrarily to aged wild-type animals that showed significant impairment in a two-trial place recognition task, aged IP3R2 KO mice did not. Consideration of neuronal and astrocytic cell densities in the prefrontal cortex, revealed that aged IP3R2 KO mice present decreased densities of NeuN+ neurons and increased densities of S100β+ astrocytes. Moreover, aged IP3R2 KO mice display refined dendritic trees in this region. These findings suggest a novel role for astrocytes in the aged brain. Further evaluation of the neuron-glial interactions in the aged brain will disclose novel strategies to handle healthy cognitive aging in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sónia Guerra-Gomes
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - João Filipe Viana
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Diana Sofia Marques Nascimento
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Joana Sofia Correia
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Vanessa Morais Sardinha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Inês Caetano
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Nuno Sousa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Luísa Pinto
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - João Filipe Oliveira
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal.,IPCA-EST-2Ai, Applied Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Polytechnic Institute of Cávado and Ave, Campus of IPCA, Barcelos, Portugal
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77
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Okubo Y, Kanemaru K, Suzuki J, Kobayashi K, Hirose K, Iino M. Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor type 2-independent Ca2+
release from the endoplasmic reticulum in astrocytes. Glia 2018; 67:113-124. [DOI: 10.1002/glia.23531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yohei Okubo
- Department of Pharmacology; Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo; Tokyo Japan
| | - Kazunori Kanemaru
- Department of Pharmacology; Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo; Tokyo Japan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology; Nihon University School of Medicine; Tokyo Japan
| | - Junji Suzuki
- Department of Physiology; University of California San Francisco; San Francisco California
| | - Kenta Kobayashi
- Section of Viral Vector Development; National Institute for Physiological Sciences; Okazaki Japan
- The Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI); Hayama Japan
| | - Kenzo Hirose
- Department of Neurobiology; Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo; Tokyo Japan
| | - Masamitsu Iino
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology; Nihon University School of Medicine; Tokyo Japan
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78
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Yu X, Taylor AMW, Nagai J, Golshani P, Evans CJ, Coppola G, Khakh BS. Reducing Astrocyte Calcium Signaling In Vivo Alters Striatal Microcircuits and Causes Repetitive Behavior. Neuron 2018; 99:1170-1187.e9. [PMID: 30174118 PMCID: PMC6450394 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2018.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes tile the central nervous system, but their functions in neural microcircuits in vivo and their roles in mammalian behavior remain incompletely defined. We used two-photon laser scanning microscopy, electrophysiology, MINIscopes, RNA-seq, and a genetic approach to explore the effects of reduced striatal astrocyte Ca2+ signaling in vivo. In wild-type mice, reducing striatal astrocyte Ca2+-dependent signaling increased repetitive self-grooming behaviors by altering medium spiny neuron (MSN) activity. The mechanism involved astrocyte-mediated neuromodulation facilitated by ambient GABA and was corrected by blocking astrocyte GABA transporter 3 (GAT-3). Furthermore, in a mouse model of Huntington's disease, dysregulation of GABA and astrocyte Ca2+ signaling accompanied excessive self-grooming, which was relieved by blocking GAT-3. Assessments with RNA-seq revealed astrocyte genes and pathways regulated by Ca2+ signaling in a cell-autonomous and non-cell-autonomous manner, including Rab11a, a regulator of GAT-3 functional expression. Thus, striatal astrocytes contribute to neuromodulation controlling mouse obsessive-compulsive-like behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinzhu Yu
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Anna M W Taylor
- Hatos Center for Neuropharmacology, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Jun Nagai
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Peyman Golshani
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; West Los Angeles VA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
| | - Christopher J Evans
- Hatos Center for Neuropharmacology, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Giovanni Coppola
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; 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
| | - 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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79
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Brazhe AR, Verisokin AY, Verveyko DV, Postnov DE. Sodium-Calcium Exchanger Can Account for Regenerative Ca 2+ Entry in Thin Astrocyte Processes. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 12:250. [PMID: 30154700 PMCID: PMC6102320 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcium transients in thin astrocytic processes can be important in synaptic plasticity, but their mechanism is not completely understood. Clearance of synaptic glutamate leads to increase in astrocytic sodium. This can electrochemically favor the reverse mode of the Na/Ca-exchanger (NCX) and allow calcium into the cell, accounting for activity-dependent calcium transients in perisynaptic astrocytic processes. However, cytosolic sodium and calcium are also allosteric regulators of the NCX, thus adding kinetic constraints on the NCX-mediated fluxes and providing for complexity of the system dynamics. Our modeling indicates that the calcium-dependent activation and also calcium-dependent escape from the sodium-mediated inactive state of the NCX in astrocytes can form a positive feedback loop and lead to regenerative calcium influx. This can result in sodium-dependent amplification of calcium transients from nearby locations or other membrane mechanisms. Prolonged conditions of elevated sodium, for example in ischemia, can also lead to bistability in cytosolic calcium levels, where a delayed transition to the high-calcium state can be triggered by a short calcium transient. These theoretical predictions call for a dedicated experimental estimation of the kinetic parameters of the astrocytic Na/Ca-exchanger.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey R. Brazhe
- Department of Biophysics, Biological Faculty, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Darya V. Verveyko
- Department of Theoretical Physics, Kursk State University, Kursk, Russia
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80
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Stobart JL, Ferrari KD, Barrett MJP, Stobart MJ, Looser ZJ, Saab AS, Weber B. Long-term In Vivo Calcium Imaging of Astrocytes Reveals Distinct Cellular Compartment Responses to Sensory Stimulation. Cereb Cortex 2018; 28:184-198. [PMID: 28968832 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhw366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Localized, heterogeneous calcium transients occur throughout astrocytes, but the characteristics and long-term stability of these signals, particularly in response to sensory stimulation, remain unknown. Here, we used a genetically encoded calcium indicator and an activity-based image analysis scheme to monitor astrocyte calcium activity in vivo. We found that different subcellular compartments (processes, somata, and endfeet) displayed distinct signaling characteristics. Closer examination of individual signals showed that sensory stimulation elevated the number of specific types of calcium peaks within astrocyte processes and somata, in a cortical layer-dependent manner, and that the signals became more synchronous upon sensory stimulation. Although mice genetically lacking astrocytic IP3R-dependent calcium signaling (Ip3r2-/-) had fewer signal peaks, the response to sensory stimulation was sustained, suggesting other calcium pathways are also involved. Long-term imaging of astrocyte populations revealed that all compartments reliably responded to stimulation over several months, but that the location of the response within processes may vary. These previously unknown characteristics of subcellular astrocyte calcium signals provide new insights into how astrocytes may encode local neuronal circuit activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian L Stobart
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kim David Ferrari
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthew J P Barrett
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael J Stobart
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Zoe J Looser
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Aiman S Saab
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bruno Weber
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
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81
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Xiong Y, Teng S, Zheng L, Sun S, Li J, Guo N, Li M, Wang L, Zhu F, Wang C, Rao Z, Zhou Z. Stretch-induced Ca 2+ independent ATP release in hippocampal astrocytes. J Physiol 2018; 596:1931-1947. [PMID: 29488635 DOI: 10.1113/jp275805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Similar to neurons, astrocytes actively participate in synaptic transmission via releasing gliotransmitters. The Ca2+ -dependent release of gliotransmitters includes glutamate and ATP. Following an 'on-cell-like' mechanical stimulus to a single astrocyte, Ca2+ independent single, large, non-quantal, ATP release occurs. Astrocytic ATP release is inhibited by either selective antagonist treatment or genetic knockdown of P2X7 receptor channels. Our work suggests that ATP can be released from astrocytes via two independent pathways in hippocampal astrocytes; in addition to the known Ca2+ -dependent vesicular release, larger non-quantal ATP release depends on P2X7 channels following mechanical stretch. ABSTRACT Astrocytic ATP release is essential for brain functions such as synaptic long-term potentiation for learning and memory. However, whether and how ATP is released via exocytosis remains hotly debated. All previous studies of non-vesicular ATP release have used indirect assays. By contrast, two recent studies report vesicular ATP release using more direct assays. In the present study, using patch clamped 'ATP-sniffer cells', we re-investigated astrocytic ATP release at single-vesicle resolution in hippocampal astrocytes. Following an 'on-cell-like' mechanical stimulus of a single astrocyte, a Ca2+ independent single large non-quantal ATP release occurred, in contrast to the Ca2+ -dependent multiple small quantal ATP release in a chromaffin cell. The mechanical stimulation-induced ATP release from an astrocyte was inhibited by either exposure to a selective antagonist or genetic knockdown of P2X7 receptor channels. Functional P2X7 channels were expressed in astrocytes in hippocampal brain slices. Thus, in addition to small quantal ATP release, larger non-quantal ATP release depends on P2X7 channels in astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingfei Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology and Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Institute of Neurosciences, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Institute of Aeromedicine, Beijing, China
| | - Sasa Teng
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology and Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Lianghong Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology and Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Suhua Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology and Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology and Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology and Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Mingli Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology and Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Li Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology and Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Feipeng Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology and Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Changhe Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology and Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiren Rao
- Institute of Neurosciences, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhuan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology and Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
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82
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Manninen T, Havela R, Linne ML. Computational Models for Calcium-Mediated Astrocyte Functions. Front Comput Neurosci 2018; 12:14. [PMID: 29670517 PMCID: PMC5893839 DOI: 10.3389/fncom.2018.00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The computational neuroscience field has heavily concentrated on the modeling of neuronal functions, largely ignoring other brain cells, including one type of glial cell, the astrocytes. Despite the short history of modeling astrocytic functions, we were delighted about the hundreds of models developed so far to study the role of astrocytes, most often in calcium dynamics, synchronization, information transfer, and plasticity in vitro, but also in vascular events, hyperexcitability, and homeostasis. Our goal here is to present the state-of-the-art in computational modeling of astrocytes in order to facilitate better understanding of the functions and dynamics of astrocytes in the brain. Due to the large number of models, we concentrated on a hundred models that include biophysical descriptions for calcium signaling and dynamics in astrocytes. We categorized the models into four groups: single astrocyte models, astrocyte network models, neuron-astrocyte synapse models, and neuron-astrocyte network models to ease their use in future modeling projects. We characterized the models based on which earlier models were used for building the models and which type of biological entities were described in the astrocyte models. Features of the models were compared and contrasted so that similarities and differences were more readily apparent. We discovered that most of the models were basically generated from a small set of previously published models with small variations. However, neither citations to all the previous models with similar core structure nor explanations of what was built on top of the previous models were provided, which made it possible, in some cases, to have the same models published several times without an explicit intention to make new predictions about the roles of astrocytes in brain functions. Furthermore, only a few of the models are available online which makes it difficult to reproduce the simulation results and further develop the models. Thus, we would like to emphasize that only via reproducible research are we able to build better computational models for astrocytes, which truly advance science. Our study is the first to characterize in detail the biophysical and biochemical mechanisms that have been modeled for astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiina Manninen
- Computational Neuroscience Group, BioMediTech Institute and Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Tampere University of Technology, Tampere, Finland
| | | | - Marja-Leena Linne
- Computational Neuroscience Group, BioMediTech Institute and Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Tampere University of Technology, Tampere, Finland
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83
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Montes de Oca Balderas P, Montes de Oca Balderas H. Synaptic neuron-astrocyte communication is supported by an order of magnitude analysis of inositol tris-phosphate diffusion at the nanoscale in a model of peri-synaptic astrocyte projection. BMC BIOPHYSICS 2018; 11:3. [PMID: 29456837 PMCID: PMC5809920 DOI: 10.1186/s13628-018-0043-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background Astrocytes were conceived for decades only as supporting cells of the brain. However, the observation of Ca2+ waves in astrocyte synctitia, their neurotransmitter receptor expression and gliotransmitter secretion suggested a role in information handling, conception that has some controversies. Synaptic Neuron-Astrocyte metabotropic communication mediated by Inositol tris-phosphate (SN-AmcIP3) is supported by different reports. However, some models contradict this idea and Ca2+ stores are 1000 ± 325 nm apart from the Postsynaptic Density in the Perisynaptic Astrocyte Projections (PAP’s), suggesting that SN-AmcIP3 is extrasynaptic. However, this assumption does not consider IP3 Diffusion Coefficient (Dab), that activates IP3 Receptor (IP3R) releasing Ca2+ from intracellular stores. Results In this work we idealized a model of a PAP (PAPm) to perform an order of magnitude analysis of IP3 diffusion using a transient mass diffusion model. This model shows that IP3 forms a concentration gradient along the PAPm that reaches the steady state in milliseconds, three orders of magnitude before IP3 degradation. The model predicts that IP3 concentration near the Ca2+ stores may activate IP3R, depending upon Phospholipase C (PLC) number and activity. Moreover, the PAPm supports that IP3 and extracellular Ca2+ entry synergize to promote global Ca2+ transients. Conclusion The model presented here indicates that Ca2+ stores position in PAP’s does not limit SN-AmcIP3. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13628-018-0043-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel Montes de Oca Balderas
- Unit of Dynamic Neurobiology, Neurochemistry Deprtment Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Insurgentes Sur #3877, Col. La Fama, C.P. 14269 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Horacio Montes de Oca Balderas
- Unit of Dynamic Neurobiology, Neurochemistry Deprtment Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Insurgentes Sur #3877, Col. La Fama, C.P. 14269 Ciudad de México, Mexico
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84
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Verkhratsky A, Trebak M, Perocchi F, Khananshvili D, Sekler I. Crosslink between calcium and sodium signalling. Exp Physiol 2018; 103:157-169. [PMID: 29210126 PMCID: PMC6813793 DOI: 10.1113/ep086534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
NEW FINDINGS What is the topic of this review? This paper overviews the links between Ca2+ and Na+ signalling in various types of cells. What advances does it highlight? This paper highlights the general importance of ionic signalling and overviews the molecular mechanisms linking Na+ and Ca2+ dynamics. In particular, the narrative focuses on the molecular physiology of plasmalemmal and mitochondrial Na+ -Ca2+ exchangers and plasmalemmal transient receptor potential channels. Functional consequences of Ca2+ and Na+ signalling for co-ordination of neuronal activity with astroglial homeostatic pathways fundamental for synaptic transmission are discussed. ABSTRACT Transmembrane ionic gradients, which are an indispensable feature of life, are used for generation of cytosolic ionic signals that regulate a host of cellular functions. Intracellular signalling mediated by Ca2+ and Na+ is tightly linked through several molecular pathways that generate Ca2+ and Na+ fluxes and are in turn regulated by both ions. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels bridge endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ release with generation of Na+ and Ca2+ currents. The plasmalemmal Na+ -Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) flickers between forward and reverse mode to co-ordinate the influx and efflux of both ions with membrane polarization and cytosolic ion concentrations. The mitochondrial calcium uniporter channel (MCU) and mitochondrial Na+ -Ca2+ exchanger (NCLX) mediate Ca2+ entry into and release from this organelle and couple cytosolic Ca2+ and Na+ fluctuations with cellular energetics. Cellular Ca2+ and Na+ signalling controls numerous functional responses and, in the CNS, provides for fast regulation of astroglial homeostatic cascades that are crucial for maintenance of synaptic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexei Verkhratsky
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Achucarro Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Mohamed Trebak
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Fabiana Perocchi
- Gene Center/Department of Biochemistry, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Institute for Diabetes and Obesity, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Daniel Khananshvili
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Ramat-Aviv, Israel
| | - Israel Sekler
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University, Beer-Sheva, Israel
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85
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Covelo A, Araque A. Neuronal activity determines distinct gliotransmitter release from a single astrocyte. eLife 2018; 7:32237. [PMID: 29380725 PMCID: PMC5790377 DOI: 10.7554/elife.32237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence indicates that astrocytes are actively involved in brain function by regulating synaptic activity and plasticity. Different gliotransmitters, such as glutamate, ATP, GABA or D-serine, released form astrocytes have been shown to induce different forms of synaptic regulation. However, whether a single astrocyte may release different gliotransmitters is unknown. Here we show that mouse hippocampal astrocytes activated by endogenous (neuron-released endocannabinoids or GABA) or exogenous (single astrocyte Ca2+ uncaging) stimuli modulate putative single CA3-CA1 hippocampal synapses. The astrocyte-mediated synaptic modulation was biphasic and consisted of an initial glutamate-mediated potentiation followed by a purinergic-mediated depression of neurotransmitter release. The temporal dynamic properties of this biphasic synaptic regulation depended on the firing frequency and duration of the neuronal activity that stimulated astrocytes. Present results indicate that single astrocytes can decode neuronal activity and, in response, release distinct gliotransmitters to differentially regulate neurotransmission at putative single synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Covelo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, United States
| | - Alfonso Araque
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, United States
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86
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Guerra-Gomes S, Sousa N, Pinto L, Oliveira JF. Functional Roles of Astrocyte Calcium Elevations: From Synapses to Behavior. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 11:427. [PMID: 29386997 PMCID: PMC5776095 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are fundamental players in the regulation of synaptic transmission and plasticity. They display unique morphological and phenotypical features that allow to monitor and to dynamically respond to changes. One of the hallmarks of the astrocytic response is the generation of calcium elevations, which further affect downstream cellular processes. Technical advances in the field have allowed to spatially and to temporally quantify and qualify these elevations. However, the impact on brain function remains poorly understood. In this review, we discuss evidences of the functional impact of heterogeneous astrocytic calcium events in several brain regions, and their consequences in synapses, circuits, and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sónia Guerra-Gomes
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s – PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Nuno Sousa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s – PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Luísa Pinto
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s – PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - João F. Oliveira
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s – PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
- DIGARC, Polytechnic Institute of Cávado and Ave, Barcelos, Portugal
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87
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Huda R, Chang Z, Do J, McCrimmon DR, Martina M. Activation of astrocytic PAR1 receptors in the rat nucleus of the solitary tract regulates breathing through modulation of presynaptic TRPV1. J Physiol 2018; 596:497-513. [PMID: 29235097 DOI: 10.1113/jp275127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS In the rat nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS), activation of astrocytic proteinase-activated receptor 1 (PAR1) receptors leads to potentiation of neuronal synaptic activity by two mechanisms, one TRPV1-dependent and one TRPV1-independent. PAR1-dependent activation of presynaptic TRPV1 receptors facilitates glutamate release onto NTS neurons. The TRPV1-dependent mechanism appears to rely on astrocytic release of endovanilloid-like molecules. A subset of NTS neurons excited by PAR1 directly project to the rostral ventral respiratory group. The PAR1 initiated, TRPV1-dependent modulation of synaptic transmission in the NTS contributes to regulation of breathing. ABSTRACT Many of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying astrocytic modulation of synaptic function remain poorly understood. Recent studies show that G-protein coupled receptor-mediated astrocyte activation modulates synaptic transmission in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS), a brainstem nucleus that regulates crucial physiological processes including cardiorespiratory activity. By using calcium imaging and patch clamp recordings in acute brain slices of wild-type and TRPV1-/- rats, we show that activation of proteinase-activated receptor 1 (PAR1) in NTS astrocytes potentiates presynaptic glutamate release on NTS neurons. This potentiation is mediated by both a TRPV1-dependent and a TRPV1-independent mechanism. The TRPV1-dependent mechanism appears to require release of endovanilloid-like molecules from astrocytes, which leads to subsequent potentiation of presynaptic glutamate release via activation of presynaptic TRPV1 channels. Activation of NTS astrocytic PAR1 receptors elicits cFOS expression in neurons that project to respiratory premotor neurons and inhibits respiratory activity in control, but not in TRPV1-/- rats. Thus, activation of astrocytic PAR1 receptor in the NTS leads to a TRPV1-dependent excitation of NTS neurons causing a potent modulation of respiratory motor output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafiq Huda
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 E Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Zheng Chang
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 E Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Jeehaeh Do
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 E Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Donald R McCrimmon
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 E Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Marco Martina
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 E Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
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88
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Abstract
Astrocytes are neural cells of ectodermal, neuroepithelial origin that provide for homeostasis and defense of the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes are highly heterogeneous in morphological appearance; they express a multitude of receptors, channels, and membrane transporters. This complement underlies their remarkable adaptive plasticity that defines the functional maintenance of the CNS in development and aging. Astrocytes are tightly integrated into neural networks and act within the context of neural tissue; astrocytes control homeostasis of the CNS at all levels of organization from molecular to the whole organ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexei Verkhratsky
- The University of Manchester , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Achúcarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science , Bilbao , Spain ; Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and CIBERNED, Leioa, Spain ; Center for Basic and Translational Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark ; and Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, New York
| | - Maiken Nedergaard
- The University of Manchester , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Achúcarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science , Bilbao , Spain ; Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and CIBERNED, Leioa, Spain ; Center for Basic and Translational Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark ; and Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, New York
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89
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Astrocytes as a target of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to treat depression. Neurosci Res 2018; 126:15-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2017.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Revised: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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90
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Verkhratsky A, Nedergaard M. Physiology of Astroglia. Physiol Rev 2018; 98:239-389. [PMID: 29351512 PMCID: PMC6050349 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00042.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 899] [Impact Index Per Article: 149.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Revised: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are neural cells of ectodermal, neuroepithelial origin that provide for homeostasis and defense of the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes are highly heterogeneous in morphological appearance; they express a multitude of receptors, channels, and membrane transporters. This complement underlies their remarkable adaptive plasticity that defines the functional maintenance of the CNS in development and aging. Astrocytes are tightly integrated into neural networks and act within the context of neural tissue; astrocytes control homeostasis of the CNS at all levels of organization from molecular to the whole organ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexei Verkhratsky
- The University of Manchester , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Achúcarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science , Bilbao , Spain ; Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and CIBERNED, Leioa, Spain ; Center for Basic and Translational Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark ; and Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, New York
| | - Maiken Nedergaard
- The University of Manchester , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Achúcarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science , Bilbao , Spain ; Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and CIBERNED, Leioa, Spain ; Center for Basic and Translational Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark ; and Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, New York
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91
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Lines J, Covelo A, Gómez R, Liu L, Araque A. Synapse-Specific Regulation Revealed at Single Synapses Is Concealed When Recording Multiple Synapses. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:367. [PMID: 29218000 PMCID: PMC5703853 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptic transmission and its activity-dependent modulation, known as synaptic plasticity, are fundamental processes in nervous system function. Neurons may receive thousands of synaptic contacts, but synaptic regulation may occur only at individual or discrete subsets of synapses, which may have important consequences on the spatial extension of the modulation of synaptic information. Moreover, while several electrophysiological methods are used to assess synaptic transmission at different levels of observation, i.e., through local field potential and individual whole-cell recordings, their experimental limitations to detect synapse-specific modulation is poorly defined. We have investigated how well-known synapse-specific short-term plasticity, where some synapses are regulated and others left unregulated, mediated by astrocytes and endocannabinoid (eCB) signaling can be assessed at different observational levels. Using hippocampal slices, we have combined local field potential and whole-cell recordings of CA3-CA1 synaptic activity evoked by Schaffer collateral stimulation of either multiple or single synapses through bulk or minimal stimulation, respectively, to test the ability to detect short-term synaptic changes induced by eCB signaling. We also developed a mathematical model assuming a bimodal distribution of regulated and unregulated synapses based on realistic experimental data to simulate physiological results and to predict the experimental requirements of the different recording methods to detect discrete changes in subsets of synapses. We show that eCB-induced depolarization-induced suppression of excitation (DSE) and astrocyte-mediated synaptic potentiation can be observed when monitoring single or few synapses, but are statistically concealed when recording the activity of a large number of synapses. These results indicate that the electrophysiological methodology is critical to properly assess synaptic changes occurring in subsets of synapses, and they suggest that relevant synapse-specific regulatory phenomena may be experimentally undetected but may have important implications in the spatial extension of synaptic plasticity phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Lines
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Ana Covelo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Ricardo Gómez
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lan Liu
- Department of Statistics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Alfonso Araque
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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92
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Taheri M, Handy G, Borisyuk A, White JA. Diversity of Evoked Astrocyte Ca 2+ Dynamics Quantified through Experimental Measurements and Mathematical Modeling. Front Syst Neurosci 2017; 11:79. [PMID: 29109680 PMCID: PMC5660282 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2017.00079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are a major cell type in the mammalian brain. They are not electrically excitable, but generate prominent Ca2+ signals related to a wide variety of critical functions. The mechanisms driving these Ca2+ events remain incompletely understood. In this study, we integrate Ca2+ imaging, quantitative data analysis, and mechanistic computational modeling to study the spatial and temporal heterogeneity of cortical astrocyte Ca2+ transients evoked by focal application of ATP in mouse brain slices. Based on experimental results, we tune a single-compartment mathematical model of IP3-dependent Ca2+ responses in astrocytes and use that model to study response heterogeneity. Using information from the experimental data and the underlying bifurcation structure of our mathematical model, we categorize all astrocyte Ca2+ responses into four general types based on their temporal characteristics: Single-Peak, Multi-Peak, Plateau, and Long-Lasting responses. We find that the distribution of experimentally-recorded response types depends on the location within an astrocyte, with somatic responses dominated by Single-Peak (SP) responses and large and small processes generating more Multi-Peak responses. On the other hand, response kinetics differ more between cells and trials than with location within a given astrocyte. We use the computational model to elucidate possible sources of Ca2+ response variability: (1) temporal dynamics of IP3, and (2) relative flux rates through Ca2+ channels and pumps. Our model also predicts the effects of blocking Ca2+ channels/pumps; for example, blocking store-operated Ca2+ (SOC) channels in the model eliminates Plateau and Long-Lasting responses (consistent with previous experimental observations). Finally, we propose that observed differences in response type distributions between astrocyte somas and processes can be attributed to systematic differences in IP3 rise durations and Ca2+ flux rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marsa Taheri
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Gregory Handy
- Department of Mathematics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Alla Borisyuk
- Department of Mathematics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - John A White
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
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93
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Tanaka M, Wang X, Mikoshiba K, Hirase H, Shinohara Y. Rearing-environment-dependent hippocampal local field potential differences in wild-type and inositol trisphosphate receptor type 2 knockout mice. J Physiol 2017; 595:6557-6568. [PMID: 28758690 DOI: 10.1113/jp274573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Mice reared in an enriched environment are demonstrated to have larger hippocampal gamma oscillations than those reared in isolation, thereby confirming previous observations in rats. To test whether astrocytic Ca2+ surges are involved in this experience-dependent LFP pattern modulation, we used inositol trisphosphate receptor type 2 (IP3 R2)-knockout (KO) mice, in which IP3 /Ca2+ signalling in astrocytes is largely diminished. We found that this experience-dependent gamma power alteration persists in the KO mice. Interestingly, hippocampal ripple events, the synchronized events critical for memory consolidation, are reduced in magnitude and frequency by both isolated rearing and IP3 R2 deficiency. ABSTRACT Rearing in an enriched environment (ENR) is known to enhance cognitive and memory abilities in rodents, whereas social isolation (ISO) induces depression-like behaviour. The hippocampus has been documented to undergo morphological and functional changes depending on these rearing environments. For example, rearing condition during juvenility alters CA1 stratum radiatum gamma oscillation power in rats. In the present study, hippocampal CA1 local field potentials (LFP) were recorded from bilateral CA1 in urethane-anaesthetized mice that were reared in either an ENR or ISO condition. Similar to previous findings in rats, gamma oscillation power during theta states was higher in the ENR group. Ripple events that occur during non-theta periods in the CA1 stratum pyramidale also had longer intervals in ISO mice. Because astrocytic Ca2+ elevations play a key role in synaptic plasticity, we next tested whether these changes in LFP are also expressed in inositol trisphosphate receptor type 2 (IP3 R2)-knockout (KO) mice, in which astrocytic Ca2+ elevations are largely diminished. We found that the gamma power was also higher in IP3 R2-KO-ENR mice compared to IP3 R2-KO-ISO mice, suggesting that the rearing-environment-dependent gamma power alteration does not necessarily require the astrocytic IP3 /Ca2+ pathway. By contrast, ripple events showed genotype-dependent changes, as well as rearing condition-dependent changes: ISO housing and IP3 R2 deficiency both lead to longer inter-ripple intervals. Moreover, we found that ripple magnitude in the right CA1 tended to be smaller in IP3 R2-KO. Because IP3 R2-KO mice have been reported to have depression phenotypes, our results suggest that ripple events and the mood of animals may be broadly correlated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Katsuhiko Mikoshiba
- Laboratory for Developmental Neurobiology, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Saitama, Japan
| | - Hajime Hirase
- Laboratory for Neuron-Glia Circuitry.,Brain and Body System Science Institute, Saitama University, Saitama, Japan
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94
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Yoon H, Walters G, Paulsen AR, Scarisbrick IA. Astrocyte heterogeneity across the brain and spinal cord occurs developmentally, in adulthood and in response to demyelination. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0180697. [PMID: 28700615 PMCID: PMC5507262 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0180697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes have emerged as essential regulators of function and response to injury in the brain and spinal cord, yet very little is known about regional differences that exist. Here we compare the expression of key astroglial markers (glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and Aldehyde Dehydrogenase-1 Family Member L1 (ALDH1L1)) across these disparate poles of the neuraxis, tracking their expression developmentally and in the context of demyelination. In addition, we document changes in the astrocyte regulatory cytokine interleukin 6 (IL-6), and its signaling partner signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), in vivo and in vitro. Results demonstrate that GFAP expression is higher in the developing and adult spinal cord relative to brain. Comparisons between GFAP and ALDH1L1 expression suggest elevations in spinal cord GFAP during the early postnatal period reflect an accelerated appearance of astrocytes, while elevations in adulthood reflect higher expression by individual astrocytes. Notably, increases in spinal cord compared to whole brain GFAP were paralleled by higher levels of IL-6 and STAT3. Equivalent elevations in GFAP, GFAP/ALDH1L1 ratios, and in IL-6, were observed in primary astrocyte cultures derived from spinal cord compared to cortex. Also, higher levels of GFAP were observed in the spinal cord compared to the brain after focal demyelinating injury. Altogether, these studies point to key differences in astrocyte abundance and the expression of GFAP and IL-6 across the brain and spinal cord that are positioned to influence regional specialization developmentally and responses occurring in the context of injury and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyesook Yoon
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Grant Walters
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Alex R. Paulsen
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Isobel A. Scarisbrick
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Neurobiology of Disease Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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95
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Adamsky A, Goshen I. Astrocytes in Memory Function: Pioneering Findings and Future Directions. Neuroscience 2017; 370:14-26. [PMID: 28571720 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2017.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes have been generally believed to perform mainly homeostatic and supportive functions for neurons in the central nervous system. Recently, a growing body of evidence suggests previously unrecognized and surprising functions for astrocytes, including regulation of synaptic formation, transmission and plasticity, all of which are considered as the infrastructure for information processing and memory formation and stabilization. This review discusses the involvement of astrocytes in memory functions and the possible mechanisms that may underlie it. We review the important breakthroughs obtained in this field, as well as some of the controversies that arose from the past difficulty to manipulate these cells in a cell type-specific and non-invasive manner. Finally, we present new research avenues based on the advanced tools becoming available in recent years: optogenetics and chemogenetics, and the potential ways in which these tools may further illuminate the role of astrocytes in memory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adar Adamsky
- Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences (ELSC), The Hebrew University, Givat Ram, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Inbal Goshen
- Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences (ELSC), The Hebrew University, Givat Ram, Jerusalem 91904, Israel.
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96
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Copeland CS, Wall TM, Sims RE, Neale SA, Nisenbaum E, Parri HR, Salt TE. Astrocytes modulate thalamic sensory processing via mGlu2 receptor activation. Neuropharmacology 2017; 121:100-110. [PMID: 28416443 PMCID: PMC5480778 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Revised: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes possess many of the same signalling molecules as neurons. However, the role of astrocytes in information processing, if any, is unknown. Using electrophysiological and imaging methods, we report the first evidence that astrocytes modulate neuronal sensory inhibition in the rodent thalamus. We found that mGlu2 receptor activity reduces inhibitory transmission from the thalamic reticular nucleus to the somatosensory ventrobasal thalamus (VB): mIPSC frequencies in VB slices were reduced by the Group II mGlu receptor agonist LY354740, an effect potentiated by mGlu2 positive allosteric modulator (PAM) LY487379 co-application (30 nM LY354740: 10.0 ± 1.6% reduction; 30 nM LY354740 & 30 μM LY487379: 34.6 ± 5.2% reduction). We then showed activation of mGlu2 receptors on astrocytes: astrocytic intracellular calcium levels were elevated by the Group II agonist, which were further potentiated upon mGlu2 PAM co-application (300 nM LY354740: ratio amplitude 0.016 ± 0.002; 300 nM LY354740 & 30 μM LY487379: ratio amplitude 0.035 ± 0.003). We then demonstrated mGlu2-dependent astrocytic disinhibition of VB neurons in vivo: VB neuronal responses to vibrissae stimulation trains were disinhibited by the Group II agonist and the mGlu2 PAM (LY354740: 156 ± 12% of control; LY487379: 144 ± 10% of control). Presence of the glial inhibitor fluorocitrate abolished the mGlu2 PAM effect (91 ± 5% of control), suggesting the mGlu2 component to the Group II effect can be attributed to activation of mGlu2 receptors localised on astrocytic processes within the VB. Gating of thalamocortical function via astrocyte activation represents a novel sensory processing mechanism. As this thalamocortical circuitry is important in discriminative processes, this demonstrates the importance of astrocytes in synaptic processes underlying attention and cognition. Thalamic inhibition is mediated by both neuronal and astrocytic mechanisms. Group II mGlu receptor (mGlu2/3) activation can modulate this thalamic inhibition. Thalamic astrocytes can be activated upon mGlu2 receptor stimulation. This process may enable relevant activity to be discerned from background noise. Targeting astrocytic mGlu2 receptors may therefore affect attention and cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- C S Copeland
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK; St George's, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK.
| | - T M Wall
- Eli Lilly and Company, 893 S Delaware Street, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA.
| | - R E Sims
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET, UK.
| | - S A Neale
- Neurexpert Limited, Kemp House, 152-160 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX, UK.
| | - E Nisenbaum
- Eli Lilly and Company, 893 S Delaware Street, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA.
| | - H R Parri
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET, UK.
| | - T E Salt
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK.
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97
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Nippert AR, Biesecker KR, Newman EA. Mechanisms Mediating Functional Hyperemia in the Brain. Neuroscientist 2017; 24:73-83. [PMID: 28403673 DOI: 10.1177/1073858417703033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal activity within the brain evokes local increases in blood flow, a response termed functional hyperemia. This response ensures that active neurons receive sufficient oxygen and nutrients to maintain tissue function and health. In this review, we discuss the functions of functional hyperemia, the types of vessels that generate the response, and the signaling mechanisms that mediate neurovascular coupling, the communication between neurons and blood vessels. Neurovascular coupling signaling is mediated primarily by the vasoactive metabolites of arachidonic acid (AA), by nitric oxide, and by K+. While much is known about these pathways, many contentious issues remain. We highlight two controversies, the role of glial cell Ca2+ signaling in mediating neurovascular coupling and the importance of capillaries in generating functional hyperemia. We propose signaling pathways that resolve these controversies. In this scheme, capillary dilations are generated by Ca2+ increases in astrocyte endfeet, leading to production of AA metabolites. In contrast, arteriole dilations are generated by Ca2+ increases in neurons, resulting in production of nitric oxide and AA metabolites. Arachidonic acid from neurons also diffuses into astrocyte endfeet where it is converted into additional vasoactive metabolites. While this scheme resolves several discrepancies in the field, many unresolved challenges remain and are discussed in the final section of the review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy R Nippert
- 1 Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Kyle R Biesecker
- 1 Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Eric A Newman
- 1 Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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98
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Astrocyte Ca 2+ Influx Negatively Regulates Neuronal Activity. eNeuro 2017; 4:eN-NWR-0340-16. [PMID: 28303263 PMCID: PMC5348542 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0340-16.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Revised: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Maintenance of neural circuit activity requires appropriate regulation of excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission. Recently, glia have emerged as key partners in the modulation of neuronal excitability; however, the mechanisms by which glia regulate neuronal signaling are still being elucidated. Here, we describe an analysis of how Ca2+ signals within Drosophila astrocyte-like glia regulate excitability in the nervous system. We find that Drosophila astrocytes exhibit robust Ca2+ oscillatory activity manifested by fast, recurrent microdomain Ca2+ fluctuations within processes that infiltrate the synaptic neuropil. Unlike the enhanced neuronal activity and behavioral seizures that were previously observed during manipulations that trigger Ca2+ influx into Drosophila cortex glia, we find that acute induction of astrocyte Ca2+ influx leads to a rapid onset of behavioral paralysis and a suppression of neuronal activity. We observe that Ca2+ influx triggers rapid endocytosis of the GABA transporter (GAT) from astrocyte plasma membranes, suggesting that increased synaptic GABA levels contribute to the neuronal silencing and paralysis. We identify Rab11 as a novel regulator of GAT trafficking that is required for this form of activity regulation. Suppression of Rab11 function strongly offsets the reduction of neuronal activity caused by acute astrocyte Ca2+ influx, likely by inhibiting GAT endocytosis. Our data provide new insights into astrocyte Ca2+ signaling and indicate that distinct glial subtypes in the Drosophila brain can mediate opposing effects on neuronal excitability.
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99
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Vasile F, Dossi E, Rouach N. Human astrocytes: structure and functions in the healthy brain. Brain Struct Funct 2017; 222:2017-2029. [PMID: 28280934 PMCID: PMC5504258 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-017-1383-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 223] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Data collected on astrocytes’ physiology in the rodent have placed them as key regulators of synaptic, neuronal, network, and cognitive functions. While these findings proved highly valuable for our awareness and appreciation of non-neuronal cell significance in brain physiology, early structural and phylogenic investigations of human astrocytes hinted at potentially different astrocytic properties. This idea sparked interest to replicate rodent-based studies on human samples, which have revealed an analogous but enhanced involvement of astrocytes in neuronal function of the human brain. Such evidence pointed to a central role of human astrocytes in sustaining more complex information processing. Here, we review the current state of our knowledge of human astrocytes regarding their structure, gene profile, and functions, highlighting the differences with rodent astrocytes. This recent insight is essential for assessment of the relevance of findings using animal models and for comprehending the functional significance of species-specific properties of astrocytes. Moreover, since dysfunctional astrocytes have been described in many brain disorders, a more thorough understanding of human-specific astrocytic properties is crucial for better-adapted translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flora Vasile
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiopathology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Elena Dossi
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiopathology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Rouach
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiopathology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris, France.
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100
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Buscemi L, Ginet V, Lopatar J, Montana V, Pucci L, Spagnuolo P, Zehnder T, Grubišić V, Truttman A, Sala C, Hirt L, Parpura V, Puyal J, Bezzi P. Homer1 Scaffold Proteins Govern Ca2+ Dynamics in Normal and Reactive Astrocytes. Cereb Cortex 2017; 27:2365-2384. [PMID: 27075036 PMCID: PMC5963825 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhw078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In astrocytes, the intracellular calcium (Ca2+) signaling mediated by activation of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGlu5) is crucially involved in the modulation of many aspects of brain physiology, including gliotransmission. Here, we find that the mGlu5-mediated Ca2+ signaling leading to release of glutamate is governed by mGlu5 interaction with Homer1 scaffolding proteins. We show that the long splice variants Homer1b/c are expressed in astrocytic processes, where they cluster with mGlu5 at sites displaying intense local Ca2+ activity. We show that the structural and functional significance of the Homer1b/c-mGlu5 interaction is to relocate endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the proximity of the plasma membrane and to optimize Ca2+ signaling and glutamate release. We also show that in reactive astrocytes the short dominant-negative splice variant Homer1a is upregulated. Homer1a, by precluding the mGlu5-ER interaction decreases the intensity of Ca2+ signaling thus limiting the intensity and the duration of glutamate release by astrocytes. Hindering upregulation of Homer1a with a local injection of short interfering RNA in vivo restores mGlu5-mediated Ca2+ signaling and glutamate release and sensitizes astrocytes to apoptosis. We propose that Homer1a may represent one of the cellular mechanisms by which inflammatory astrocytic reactions are beneficial for limiting brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Buscemi
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, CH1005Lausanne, Switzerland
- Stroke Laboratory, Neurology Service, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University Hospital Centre and University of Lausanne, CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Vanessa Ginet
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, CH1005Lausanne, Switzerland
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics and Paediatric Surgery, University Hospital Centre and University of Lausanne, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jan Lopatar
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, CH1005Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Vedrana Montana
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
- Department of Neurobiology, Center for Glial Biology in Medicine, Civitan International Research Center, Atomic Force Microscopy and Nanotechnology Laboratories, and Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Luca Pucci
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, CH1005Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Paola Spagnuolo
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, CH1005Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Tamara Zehnder
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, CH1005Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Vladimir Grubišić
- Department of Neurobiology, Center for Glial Biology in Medicine, Civitan International Research Center, Atomic Force Microscopy and Nanotechnology Laboratories, and Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Anita Truttman
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics and Paediatric Surgery, University Hospital Centre and University of Lausanne, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Carlo Sala
- CNR Institute of Neuroscience and Department of Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenz Hirt
- Stroke Laboratory, Neurology Service, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University Hospital Centre and University of Lausanne, CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Vladimir Parpura
- Department of Neurobiology, Center for Glial Biology in Medicine, Civitan International Research Center, Atomic Force Microscopy and Nanotechnology Laboratories, and Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Julien Puyal
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, CH1005Lausanne, Switzerland
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics and Paediatric Surgery, University Hospital Centre and University of Lausanne, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Paola Bezzi
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, CH1005Lausanne, Switzerland
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