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Abstract
Cerebral organoids are an emerging cutting-edge technology to model human brain
development and neurodevelopmental disorders, for which mouse models exhibit significant
limitations. In the human brain, synaptic connections define neural circuits, and synaptic
deficits account for various neurodevelopmental disorders. Thus, harnessing the full power
of cerebral organoids for human brain modeling requires the ability to visualize and
analyze synapses in cerebral organoids. Previously, we devised an optimized method to
generate human cerebral organoids, and showed that optimal organoids express mature-neuron
markers, including synaptic proteins and neurotransmitter receptors and transporters.
Here, we give evidence for synaptogenesis in cerebral organoids, via microscopical
visualization of synapses. We also describe multiple approaches to quantitatively analyze
synapses in cerebral organoids. Collectively, our work provides sufficient evidence for
the possibility of modeling synaptogenesis and synaptic disorders in cerebral organoids,
and may help advance the use of cerebral organoids in molecular neuroscience and studies
of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abraam M Yakoub
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Mark Sadek
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, University of Illinois College of Pharmacy, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Research and Development, Akorn Pharmaceuticals, Vernon Hills, IL, USA
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102
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Hosie S, Ellis M, Swaminathan M, Ramalhosa F, Seger GO, Balasuriya GK, Gillberg C, Råstam M, Churilov L, McKeown SJ, Yalcinkaya N, Urvil P, Savidge T, Bell CA, Bodin O, Wood J, Franks AE, Bornstein JC, Hill-Yardin EL. Gastrointestinal dysfunction in patients and mice expressing the autism-associated R451C mutation in neuroligin-3. Autism Res 2019; 12:1043-1056. [PMID: 31119867 PMCID: PMC6606367 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) problems constitute an important comorbidity in many patients with autism. Multiple mutations in the neuroligin family of synaptic adhesion molecules are implicated in autism, however whether they are expressed and impact GI function via changes in the enteric nervous system is unknown. We report the GI symptoms of two brothers with autism and an R451C mutation in Nlgn3 encoding the synaptic adhesion protein, neuroligin-3. We confirm the presence of an array of synaptic genes in the murine GI tract and investigate the impact of impaired synaptic protein expression in mice carrying the human neuroligin-3 R451C missense mutation (NL3R451C ). Assessing in vivo gut dysfunction, we report faster small intestinal transit in NL3R451C compared to wild-type mice. Using an ex vivo colonic motility assay, we show increased sensitivity to GABAA receptor modulation in NL3R451C mice, a well-established Central Nervous System (CNS) feature associated with this mutation. We further show increased numbers of small intestine myenteric neurons in NL3R451C mice. Although we observed altered sensitivity to GABAA receptor modulators in the colon, there was no change in colonic neuronal numbers including the number of GABA-immunoreactive myenteric neurons. We further identified altered fecal microbial communities in NL3R451C mice. These results suggest that the R451C mutation affects small intestinal and colonic function and alter neuronal numbers in the small intestine as well as impact fecal microbes. Our findings identify a novel GI phenotype associated with the R451C mutation and highlight NL3R451C mice as a useful preclinical model of GI dysfunction in autism. Autism Res 2019, 12: 1043-1056. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: People with autism commonly experience gastrointestinal problems, however the cause is unknown. We report gut symptoms in patients with the autism-associated R451C mutation encoding the neuroligin-3 protein. We show that many of the genes implicated in autism are expressed in mouse gut. The neuroligin-3 R451C mutation alters the enteric nervous system, causes gastrointestinal dysfunction, and disrupts gut microbe populations in mice. Gut dysfunction in autism could be due to mutations that affect neuronal communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Hosie
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Melina Ellis
- Department of Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Mathusi Swaminathan
- Department of Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Fatima Ramalhosa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Gracia O Seger
- Department of Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Christopher Gillberg
- Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Maria Råstam
- Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Leonid Churilov
- School of Science Cluster, RMIT University, Melbourne City Campus, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Sonja J McKeown
- Cancer Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Nalzi Yalcinkaya
- Texas Children's Microbiome Center, Texas Children's Hospital and Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Petri Urvil
- Texas Children's Microbiome Center, Texas Children's Hospital and Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Tor Savidge
- Texas Children's Microbiome Center, Texas Children's Hospital and Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Carolyn A Bell
- La Trobe University, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Oonagh Bodin
- La Trobe University, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Jen Wood
- La Trobe University, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Ashley E Franks
- La Trobe University, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Joel C Bornstein
- Department of Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Elisa L Hill-Yardin
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia.,Department of Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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103
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Li XG, Hong XY, Wang YL, Zhang SJ, Zhang JF, Li XC, Liu YC, Sun DS, Feng Q, Ye JW, Gao Y, Ke D, Wang Q, Li HL, Ye K, Liu GP, Wang JZ. Tau accumulation triggers STAT1-dependent memory deficits by suppressing NMDA receptor expression. EMBO Rep 2019; 20:embr.201847202. [PMID: 31085626 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201847202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracellular tau accumulation forming neurofibrillary tangles is hallmark pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD), but how tau accumulation induces synapse impairment is elusive. By overexpressing human full-length wild-type tau (termed hTau) to mimic tau abnormality as seen in the brain of sporadic AD patients, we find that hTau accumulation activates JAK2 to phosphorylate STAT1 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 1) at Tyr701 leading to STAT1 dimerization, nuclear translocation, and its activation. STAT1 activation suppresses expression of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) through direct binding to the specific GAS element of GluN1, GluN2A, and GluN2B promoters, while knockdown of STAT1 by AAV-Cre in STAT1flox/flox mice or expressing dominant negative Y701F-STAT1 efficiently rescues hTau-induced suppression of NMDAR expression with amelioration of synaptic functions and memory performance. These findings indicate that hTau accumulation impairs synaptic plasticity through JAK2/STAT1-induced suppression of NMDAR expression, revealing a novel mechanism for hTau-associated synapse and memory deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Guang Li
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Clinic Center of Human Gene Research, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao-Yue Hong
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ya-Li Wang
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Key Laboratory for the Brain Research of Henan Province, Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Shu-Juan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jun-Fei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xia-Chun Li
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan-Chao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dong-Shen Sun
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiong Feng
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jin-Wang Ye
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Ke
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong-Lian Li
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Keqiang Ye
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gong-Ping Liu
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China .,Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jian-Zhi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China and Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China .,Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
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104
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Leembruggen AJL, Balasuriya GK, Zhang J, Schokman S, Swiderski K, Bornstein JC, Nithianantharajah J, Hill-Yardin EL. Colonic dilation and altered ex vivo gastrointestinal motility in the neuroligin-3 knockout mouse. Autism Res 2019; 13:691-701. [PMID: 31002480 PMCID: PMC7317711 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction is commonly reported by people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD; autism) but the cause is unknown. Mutations in genes encoding synaptic proteins including Neuroligin‐3 are associated with autism. Mice lacking Neuroligin‐3 (Nlgn3−/−) have altered brain function, but whether the enteric nervous system (ENS) is altered remains unknown. We assessed for changes in GI structure and function in Nlgn3−/− mice. We found no significant morphological differences in villus height or crypt depth in the jejunum or colon between wildtype (WT) and Nlgn3−/− mice. To determine whether deletion of Nlgn3 affects enteric neurons, we stained for neural markers in the myenteric plexus. Nlgn3−/− mice had similar numbers of neurons expressing the pan‐neuronal marker Hu in the jejunum, proximal mid, and distal colon regions. We also found no differences in the number of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS+) or calretinin (CalR+) motor neurons and interneurons between WT and Nlgn3−/− mice. We used ex vivo video imaging analysis to assess colonic motility under baseline conditions and observed faster colonic migrating motor complexes (CMMCs) and an increased colonic diameter in Nlgn3−/− mice, although CMMC frequency was unchanged. At baseline, CMMCs were faster in Nlgn3−/− mice compared to WT. Although the numbers of neuronal subsets are conserved in Nlgn3−/− mice, these findings suggest that Neuroligin‐3 modulates inhibitory neural pathways in the ENS and may contribute to mechanisms underlying GI disorders in autism. Autism Res 2020, 13: 691–701. © 2019 The Authors. Autism Research published by International Society for Autism Research published byWiley Periodicals, Inc. Lay Summary People with autism commonly experience gut problems. Many gene mutations associated with autism affect neuronal activity. We studied mice in which the autism‐associated Neuroligin‐3 gene is deleted to determine whether this impacts gut neuronal numbers or motility. We found that although mutant mice had similar gut structure and numbers of neurons in all gut regions examined, they had distended colons and faster colonic muscle contractions. Further work is needed to understand how Neuroligin‐3 affects neuron connectivity in the gastrointestinal tract.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gayathri K Balasuriya
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jinghong Zhang
- Department of Physiology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shana Schokman
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kristy Swiderski
- Centre for Muscle Research, Department of Physiology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joel C Bornstein
- Department of Physiology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Elisa L Hill-Yardin
- Department of Physiology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
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105
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Ajram LA, Pereira AC, Durieux AMS, Velthius HE, Petrinovic MM, McAlonan GM. The contribution of [1H] magnetic resonance spectroscopy to the study of excitation-inhibition in autism. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2019; 89:236-244. [PMID: 30248378 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects over 1:100 of the population and costs the UK more than £32bn and the USA more than $175bn (£104bn) annually. Its core symptoms are social and communication difficulties, repetitive behaviours and sensory hyper- or hypo-sensitivities. A highly diverse phenotypic presentation likely reflects its etiological heterogeneity and makes finding treatment targets for ASD challenging. In addition, there are no means to identify biologically responsive individuals who may benefit from specific interventions. There is hope however, and in this review we consolidate how findings from magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) add to the evidence that differences in the brain's excitatory glutamate and inhibitory γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) balance may be both a key biomarker and a tractable treatment target in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Ajram
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK; Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Andreia C Pereira
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK; Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK; CIBIT - Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Faculty of Medicine, ICNAS - Institute of Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health, University of Coimbra, Polo 3, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Alice M S Durieux
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK; Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Hester E Velthius
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Marija M Petrinovic
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK; Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
| | - Grainne M McAlonan
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK; Sackler Institute for Translational Neurodevelopment, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
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106
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Lima Caldeira G, Peça J, Carvalho AL. New insights on synaptic dysfunction in neuropsychiatric disorders. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2019; 57:62-70. [PMID: 30743178 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2019.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 01/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence implicates synaptic proteins in the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disability (ID) and schizophrenia. In fact, mutations in genes encoding synaptic proteins are enriched and overlap among different conditions highlighting the complex and pleiotropic nature of these disorders. In this review, we discuss recently described candidate genes that affect excitatory synapse function and result in changes in spine number and morphology. Spine pathology has been observed in several animal models of disease and in human brain post-mortem samples from ID, ASD, and schizophrenia patients. Recent data point to convergent mechanisms, such as dysregulation of the actin cytoskeleton and dysfunction of microglia synaptic remodeling, underlying dendritic spine dysgenesis. Interestingly, the reversion of important pathologic features, including spine abnormalities, has been observed in adult animal models of neuropsychiatric disorders, suggesting that therapies may not be restricted to a specific developmental window. Shedding light on the specific mechanisms impacted in neuropsychiatric disorders will undeniably contribute to the development of more directed and personalized therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gladys Lima Caldeira
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; IIIUC-Interdisciplinary Research Institute, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Peça
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; IIIUC-Interdisciplinary Research Institute, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Luísa Carvalho
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3004-517 Coimbra, Portugal.
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107
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Schob C, Morellini F, Ohana O, Bakota L, Hrynchak MV, Brandt R, Brockmann MD, Cichon N, Hartung H, Hanganu-Opatz IL, Kraus V, Scharf S, Herrmans-Borgmeyer I, Schweizer M, Kuhl D, Wöhr M, Vörckel KJ, Calzada-Wack J, Fuchs H, Gailus-Durner V, Hrabě de Angelis M, Garner CC, Kreienkamp HJ, Kindler S. Cognitive impairment and autistic-like behaviour in SAPAP4-deficient mice. Transl Psychiatry 2019; 9:7. [PMID: 30664629 PMCID: PMC6341115 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-018-0327-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Revised: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
In humans, genetic variants of DLGAP1-4 have been linked with neuropsychiatric conditions, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While these findings implicate the encoded postsynaptic proteins, SAPAP1-4, in the etiology of neuropsychiatric conditions, underlying neurobiological mechanisms are unknown. To assess the contribution of SAPAP4 to these disorders, we characterized SAPAP4-deficient mice. Our study reveals that the loss of SAPAP4 triggers profound behavioural abnormalities, including cognitive deficits combined with impaired vocal communication and social interaction, phenotypes reminiscent of ASD in humans. These behavioural alterations of SAPAP4-deficient mice are associated with dramatic changes in synapse morphology, function and plasticity, indicating that SAPAP4 is critical for the development of functional neuronal networks and that mutations in the corresponding human gene, DLGAP4, may cause deficits in social and cognitive functioning relevant to ASD-like neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Schob
- Institute for Human Genetics, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Fabio Morellini
- Behavioral Biology, Centre for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ora Ohana
- Institute for Molecular and Cellular Cognition, ZMNH, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lidia Bakota
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Osnabrück, 49076, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Mariya V Hrynchak
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Osnabrück, 49076, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Roland Brandt
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Osnabrück, 49076, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Marco D Brockmann
- Developmental Neurophysiology, Department of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nicole Cichon
- Developmental Neurophysiology, Department of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Henrike Hartung
- Developmental Neurophysiology, Department of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ileana L Hanganu-Opatz
- Developmental Neurophysiology, Department of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Vanessa Kraus
- Behavioral Biology, Centre for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sarah Scharf
- Behavioral Biology, Centre for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Irm Herrmans-Borgmeyer
- Transgenic Mouse Facility, ZMNH, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michaela Schweizer
- Morphology and Electron Microscopy, ZMNH, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dietmar Kuhl
- Institute for Molecular and Cellular Cognition, ZMNH, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Markus Wöhr
- Behavioral Neuroscience, Experimental and Biological Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Philipps-University of Marburg, 35032, Marburg, Germany
| | - Karl J Vörckel
- Behavioral Neuroscience, Experimental and Biological Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Philipps-University of Marburg, 35032, Marburg, Germany
| | - Julia Calzada-Wack
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Centre Munich, German Research Centre for Environmental Health, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Helmut Fuchs
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Centre Munich, German Research Centre for Environmental Health, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Valérie Gailus-Durner
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Centre Munich, German Research Centre for Environmental Health, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Martin Hrabě de Angelis
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Centre Munich, German Research Centre for Environmental Health, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
- Chair of Experimental Genetics, School of Life Science Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, 85354, Freising, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Craig C Garner
- German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), c/o Charité University Medical Centre, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hans-Jürgen Kreienkamp
- Institute for Human Genetics, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Kindler
- Institute for Human Genetics, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
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108
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Fantuzzo JA, Hart RP, Zahn JD, Pang ZP. Compartmentalized Devices as Tools for Investigation of Human Brain Network Dynamics. Dev Dyn 2019; 248:65-77. [PMID: 30117633 PMCID: PMC6312734 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric disorders have traditionally been difficult to study due to the complexity of the human brain and limited availability of human tissue. Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells provide a promising avenue to further our understanding of human disease mechanisms, but traditional 2D cell cultures can only provide a limited view of the neural circuits. To better model complex brain neurocircuitry, compartmentalized culturing systems and 3D organoids have been developed. Early compartmentalized devices demonstrated how neuronal cell bodies can be isolated both physically and chemically from neurites. Soft lithographic approaches have advanced this approach and offer the tools to construct novel model platforms, enabling circuit-level studies of disease, which can accelerate mechanistic studies and drug candidate screening. In this review, we describe some of the common technologies used to develop such systems and discuss how these lithographic techniques have been used to advance our understanding of neuropsychiatric disease. Finally, we address other in vitro model platforms such as 3D culture systems and organoids and compare these models with compartmentalized models. We ask important questions regarding how we can further harness iPS cells in these engineered culture systems for the development of improved in vitro models. Developmental Dynamics 248:65-77, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A Fantuzzo
- Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Ronald P Hart
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Jeffrey D Zahn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Zhiping P Pang
- Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Research Tower, Piscataway, New Jersey
- Pediatrics, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
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109
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Richter M, Murtaza N, Scharrenberg R, White SH, Johanns O, Walker S, Yuen RKC, Schwanke B, Bedürftig B, Henis M, Scharf S, Kraus V, Dörk R, Hellmann J, Lindenmaier Z, Ellegood J, Hartung H, Kwan V, Sedlacik J, Fiehler J, Schweizer M, Lerch JP, Hanganu-Opatz IL, Morellini F, Scherer SW, Singh KK, Calderon de Anda F. Altered TAOK2 activity causes autism-related neurodevelopmental and cognitive abnormalities through RhoA signaling. Mol Psychiatry 2019; 24:1329-1350. [PMID: 29467497 PMCID: PMC6756231 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-018-0025-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Atypical brain connectivity is a major contributor to the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) including autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). TAOK2 is one of several genes in the 16p11.2 microdeletion region, but whether it contributes to NDDs is unknown. We performed behavioral analysis on Taok2 heterozygous (Het) and knockout (KO) mice and found gene dosage-dependent impairments in cognition, anxiety, and social interaction. Taok2 Het and KO mice also have dosage-dependent abnormalities in brain size and neural connectivity in multiple regions, deficits in cortical layering, dendrite and synapse formation, and reduced excitatory neurotransmission. Whole-genome and -exome sequencing of ASD families identified three de novo mutations in TAOK2 and functional analysis in mice and human cells revealed that all the mutations impair protein stability, but they differentially impact kinase activity, dendrite growth, and spine/synapse development. Mechanistically, loss of Taok2 activity causes a reduction in RhoA activation, and pharmacological enhancement of RhoA activity rescues synaptic phenotypes. Together, these data provide evidence that TAOK2 is a neurodevelopmental disorder risk gene and identify RhoA signaling as a mediator of TAOK2-dependent synaptic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Richter
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Neuronal Development, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nadeem Murtaza
- 0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada ,0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada
| | - Robin Scharrenberg
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Neuronal Development, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sean H. White
- 0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada ,0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada
| | - Ole Johanns
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Neuronal Development, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Susan Walker
- 0000 0004 0473 9646grid.42327.30The Centre for Applied Genomics and Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,0000 0001 2157 2938grid.17063.33Department of Molecular Genetics and McLaughlin Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Ryan K. C. Yuen
- 0000 0004 0473 9646grid.42327.30The Centre for Applied Genomics and Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,0000 0001 2157 2938grid.17063.33Department of Molecular Genetics and McLaughlin Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Birgit Schwanke
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Neuronal Development, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bianca Bedürftig
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Neuronal Development, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Melad Henis
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Neuronal Development, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany ,0000 0000 8632 679Xgrid.252487.eDepartment of Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Sarah Scharf
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Behavioral Biology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Vanessa Kraus
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Behavioral Biology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ronja Dörk
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Behavioral Biology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jakob Hellmann
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Behavioral Biology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Zsuzsa Lindenmaier
- 0000 0004 0473 9646grid.42327.30Mouse Imaging Center, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,0000 0001 2157 2938grid.17063.33Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Jacob Ellegood
- 0000 0004 0473 9646grid.42327.30Mouse Imaging Center, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Henrike Hartung
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Developmental Neurophysiology, Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany ,0000 0004 0410 2071grid.7737.4Present Address: Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Vickie Kwan
- 0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada ,0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada
| | - Jan Sedlacik
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Department of Neuroradiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jens Fiehler
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Department of Neuroradiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michaela Schweizer
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Core Facility Morphology and Electronmicroscopy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jason P. Lerch
- 0000 0004 0473 9646grid.42327.30Mouse Imaging Center, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,0000 0001 2157 2938grid.17063.33Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Ileana L. Hanganu-Opatz
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Developmental Neurophysiology, Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Fabio Morellini
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Behavioral Biology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stephen W. Scherer
- 0000 0004 0473 9646grid.42327.30The Centre for Applied Genomics and Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,0000 0001 2157 2938grid.17063.33Department of Molecular Genetics and McLaughlin Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Karun K. Singh
- 0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada ,0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada
| | - Froylan Calderon de Anda
- Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Neuronal Development, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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110
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Guang S, Pang N, Deng X, Yang L, He F, Wu L, Chen C, Yin F, Peng J. Synaptopathology Involved in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 12:470. [PMID: 30627085 PMCID: PMC6309163 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompasses a group of multifactorial neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impaired social communication, social interaction and repetitive behaviors. ASD affects 1 in 59 children, and is about 4 times more common among boys than among girls. Strong genetic components, together with environmental factors in the early stage of development, contribute to the pathogenesis of ASD. Multiple studies have revealed that mutations in genes like NRXN, NLGN, SHANK, TSC1/2, FMR1, and MECP2 converge on common cellular pathways that intersect at synapses. These genes encode cell adhesion molecules, scaffolding proteins and proteins involved in synaptic transcription, protein synthesis and degradation, affecting various aspects of synapses including synapse formation and elimination, synaptic transmission and plasticity. This suggests that the pathogenesis of ASD may, at least in part, be attributed to synaptic dysfunction. In this article, we will review major genes and signaling pathways implicated in synaptic abnormalities underlying ASD, and discuss molecular, cellular and functional studies of ASD experimental models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiqi Guang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Nan Pang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaolu Deng
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Lifen Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Fang He
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Liwen Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Fei Yin
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Peng
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
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111
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Synaptic structural protein dysfunction leads to altered excitation inhibition ratios in models of autism spectrum disorder. Pharmacol Res 2018; 139:207-214. [PMID: 30465851 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Genetics is believed to play a key role in the development of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and a plethora of potential candidate genes have been identified by genetic characterization of patients, their family members and controls. To make sense of this information investigators have searched for common pathways and downstream properties of neural networks that are regulated by these genes. For instance, several candidate genes encode synaptic proteins, and one hypothesis that has emerged is that disruption of the synaptic excitation and inhibition (E/I) balance would destabilize neural processing and lead to ASD phenotypes. Some compelling evidence for this has come from the analyses of mouse and culture models with defects in synaptic structural proteins, which influence several aspects of synapse biology and is the subject of this review. Remaining challenges include identifying the specifics that distinguish ASD from other psychiatric diseases and designing more direct tests of the E/I balance hypothesis.
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112
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Li Y, Shen M, Stockton ME, Zhao X. Hippocampal deficits in neurodevelopmental disorders. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2018; 165:106945. [PMID: 30321651 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2018.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders result from impaired development or maturation of the central nervous system. Both genetic and environmental factors can contribute to the pathogenesis of these disorders; however, the exact causes are frequently complex and unclear. Individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders may have deficits with diverse manifestations, including challenges with sensory function, motor function, learning, memory, executive function, emotion, anxiety, and social ability. Although these functions are mediated by multiple brain regions, many of them are dependent on the hippocampus. Extensive research supports important roles of the mammalian hippocampus in learning and cognition. In addition, with its high levels of activity-dependent synaptic plasticity and lifelong neurogenesis, the hippocampus is sensitive to experience and exposure and susceptible to disease and injury. In this review, we first summarize hippocampal deficits seen in several human neurodevelopmental disorders, and then discuss hippocampal impairment including hippocampus-dependent behavioral deficits found in animal models of these neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, China; Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Minjie Shen
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Michael E Stockton
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Xinyu Zhao
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
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113
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Dang R, Qi J, Liu A, Ren Q, Lv D, Han L, Zhou Z, Cao F, Xie W, Jia Z. Regulation of hippocampal long term depression by Neuroligin 1. Neuropharmacology 2018; 143:205-216. [PMID: 30266599 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Neuroligins (NLGs) are postsynaptic adhesion molecules known to play essential roles in synapse development and maturation, but their effects on synaptic plasticity at mature synapses remain unclear. In this study, we investigate the involvement of NLG1 in hippocampal long-term depression (LTD), a key form of long lasting synaptic plasticity, critical for memory formation and brain disorders, by using mice deficient in the expression of NLG1. We find that although NLG1 homozygous (NLG1-/-) mice show no impairments in either NMDA receptor- (NMDAR-LTD) or metabotropic glutamate receptor-dependent LTD (mGluR-LTD), the heterozygous (NLG1+/-) mice are significantly altered in both forms of LTD characterized by the absence of NMDAR-LTD but enhanced mGluR-LTD. Accordingly, the NLG1+/-, but not the NLG1-/- mice are altered in synaptic proteins, including PSD95, GluA2 and phosphorylated GluA1 at serine 845, all of which are involved in the expression of LTD. The NLG1+/- mice also exhibit autistic-like behaviors including increased grooming and impaired recognition memory. We further show that the expression of NLG3, a close family member of NLG1, is elevated in the NLG1-/-, but not in NLG1+/- mice, suggesting that the lack of LTD deficits in the NLG1-/- mice might be due to the increased NLG3. Our results reveal a gene dosage dependent role for NLG1 in the regulation of LTD and suggest that moderate changes in NLG1 protein level may be sufficient to cause synaptic and behavior deficits in brain disorders where copy number variants and hemizygosity of gene mutations are common.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Dang
- The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, Institute of Life Sciences, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Junxia Qi
- The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, Institute of Life Sciences, Southeast University, Nanjing, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Key Laboratory of Human Functional Genomics of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - An Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, Institute of Life Sciences, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qiaoyun Ren
- The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, Institute of Life Sciences, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dandan Lv
- The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, Institute of Life Sciences, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lifang Han
- The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, Institute of Life Sciences, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zikai Zhou
- The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, Institute of Life Sciences, Southeast University, Nanjing, China; Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Feng Cao
- Neurosciences & Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Ave., Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X8, Canada; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Wei Xie
- The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, Institute of Life Sciences, Southeast University, Nanjing, China; Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China.
| | - Zhengping Jia
- Neurosciences & Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Ave., Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X8, Canada; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada.
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114
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Trobiani L, Favaloro FL, Di Castro MA, Di Mattia M, Cariello M, Miranda E, Canterini S, De Stefano ME, Comoletti D, Limatola C, De Jaco A. UPR activation specifically modulates glutamate neurotransmission in the cerebellum of a mouse model of autism. Neurobiol Dis 2018; 120:139-150. [PMID: 30201312 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2018.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
An increasing number of rare mutations linked to autism spectrum disorders have been reported in genes encoding for proteins involved in synapse formation and maintenance, such as the post-synaptic cell adhesion proteins neuroligins. Most of the autism-linked mutations in the neuroligin genes map on the extracellular protein domain. The autism-linked substitution R451C in Neuroligin3 (NLGN3) induces a local misfolding of the extracellular domain, causing defective trafficking and retention of the mutant protein in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR), due to misfolded proteins accumulating in the ER, has been implicated in pathological and physiological conditions of the nervous system. It was previously shown that the over-expression of R451C NLGN3 in a cellular system leads to the activation of the UPR. Here, we have investigated whether this protective cellular response is detectable in the knock-in mouse model of autism endogenously expressing R451C NLGN3. Our data showed up-regulation of UPR markers uniquely in the cerebellum of the R451C mice compared to WT littermates, at both embryonic and adult stages, but not in other brain regions. Miniature excitatory currents in the Purkinje cells of the R451C mice showed higher frequency than in the WT, which was rescued inhibiting the PERK branch of UPR. Taken together, our data indicate that the R451C mutation in neuroligin3 elicits UPR in vivo, which appears to trigger alterations of synaptic function in the cerebellum of a mouse model expressing the R451C autism-linked mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Trobiani
- Department Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Center for Research in Neurobiology 'Daniel Bovet', 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - F L Favaloro
- Department Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Center for Research in Neurobiology 'Daniel Bovet', 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - M A Di Castro
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - M Di Mattia
- Department Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Center for Research in Neurobiology 'Daniel Bovet', 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - M Cariello
- Department Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Center for Research in Neurobiology 'Daniel Bovet', 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - E Miranda
- Department Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Center for Research in Neurobiology 'Daniel Bovet', 00185 Rome, Italy.; Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci-Bolognetti, Italy
| | - S Canterini
- Department of Psychology, Section of Neuroscience, Center for Research in Neurobiology 'Daniel Bovet', Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - M E De Stefano
- Department Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Center for Research in Neurobiology 'Daniel Bovet', 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - D Comoletti
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Department of Pediatrics, Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - C Limatola
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy.; Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci-Bolognetti, Italy.; IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | - A De Jaco
- Department Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Center for Research in Neurobiology 'Daniel Bovet', 00185 Rome, Italy..
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115
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Role of VTA dopamine neurons and neuroligin 3 in sociability traits related to nonfamiliar conspecific interaction. Nat Commun 2018; 9:3173. [PMID: 30093665 PMCID: PMC6085391 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-05382-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Atypical habituation and aberrant exploration of novel stimuli have been related to the severity of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), but the underlying neuronal circuits are unknown. Here we show that chemogenetic inhibition of dopamine (DA) neurons of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) attenuates exploration toward nonfamiliar conspecifics and interferes with the reinforcing properties of nonfamiliar conspecific interaction in mice. Exploration of nonfamiliar stimuli is associated with the insertion of GluA2-lacking AMPA receptors at excitatory synapses on VTA DA neurons. These synaptic adaptations persist upon repeated exposure to social stimuli and sustain conspecific interaction. Global or VTA DA neuron-specific loss of the ASD-associated synaptic adhesion molecule neuroligin 3 alters the behavioral response toward nonfamiliar conspecifics and the reinforcing properties of conspecific interaction. These behavioral deficits are accompanied by an aberrant expression of AMPA receptors and an occlusion of synaptic plasticity. Altogether, these findings link impaired exploration of nonfamiliar conspecifics to VTA DA neuron dysfunction in mice. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder have alteration in social and novelty behaviors. Here, Bellone and colleagues show that chemogenetic inhibition of mouse dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area can blunt exploration towards unfamiliar conspecifics, and that these behavioral deficits are recapitulated in mice lacking neuroligin3 gene product.
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116
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Hosie S, Malone DT, Liu S, Glass M, Adlard PA, Hannan AJ, Hill-Yardin EL. Altered Amygdala Excitation and CB1 Receptor Modulation of Aggressive Behavior in the Neuroligin-3 R451C Mouse Model of Autism. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 12:234. [PMID: 30123111 PMCID: PMC6085410 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00234] [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: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding neuronal mechanisms underlying aggression in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) could lead to better treatments and prognosis. The Neuroligin-3 (NL3)R451C mouse model of ASD has a heightened aggressive phenotype, however the biological mechanisms underlying this behavior are unknown. It is well established that NL3R451C mice have imbalanced excitatory and inhibitory synaptic activity in the hippocampus and somatosensory cortex. The amygdala plays a role in modulating aggressive behavior, however potential changes in synaptic activity in this region have not previously been assessed in this model. We investigated whether aggressive behavior is robustly present in mice expressing the R451C mutation, following back-crossing onto a congenic background strain. Endocannabinoids influence social interaction and aggressive behavior, therefore we also studied the effects of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) agonist on NL3R451C mice. We report that NL3R451C mice have increased amplitude of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) with a concomitant decrease in the amplitude of inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) in the basolateral amygdala. Importantly, we demonstrated that NL3R451C mice bred on a C57Bl/6 background strain exhibit an aggressive phenotype. Following non-sedating doses (0.3 and 1.0 mg/kg) of the CB1 receptor agonist WIN55,212-2 (WIN), we observed a significant reduction in aggressive behavior in NL3R451C mice. These findings demonstrate altered synaptic activity in the basolateral amygdala and suggest that the NL3R451C mouse model is a useful preclinical tool to understand the role of CB1 receptor function in aggressive behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Hosie
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Daniel T Malone
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Stephanie Liu
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Michelle Glass
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Paul Anthony Adlard
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Anthony John Hannan
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Elisa L Hill-Yardin
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia.,Department of Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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117
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Estrogen Treatment Reverses Prematurity-Induced Disruption in Cortical Interneuron Population. J Neurosci 2018; 38:7378-7391. [PMID: 30037831 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0478-18.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Development of cortical interneurons continues until the end of human pregnancy. Premature birth deprives the newborns from the supply of maternal estrogen and a secure intrauterine environment. Indeed, preterm infants suffer from neurobehavioral disorders. This can result from both preterm birth and associated postnatal complications, which might disrupt recruitment and maturation of cortical interneurons. We hypothesized that interneuron subtypes, including parvalbumin-positive (PV+), somatostatin-positive (SST+), calretinin-positive (CalR+), and neuropeptide Y-positive (NPY+) interneurons, were recruited in the upper and lower cortical layers in a distinct manner with advancing gestational age. In addition, preterm birth would disrupt the heterogeneity of cortical interneurons, which might be reversed by estrogen treatment. These hypotheses were tested by analyzing autopsy samples from premature infants and evaluating the effect of estrogen supplementation in prematurely delivered rabbits. The PV+ and CalR+ neurons were abundant, whereas SST+ and NPY+ neurons were few in cortical layers of preterm human infants. Premature birth of infants reduced the density of PV+ or GAD67+ neurons and increased SST+ interneurons in the upper cortical layers. Importantly, 17 β-estradiol treatment in preterm rabbits increased the number of PV+ neurons in the upper cortical layers relative to controls at postnatal day 14 (P14) and P21 and transiently reduced SST population at P14. Moreover, protein and mRNA levels of Arx, a key regulator of cortical interneuron maturation and migration, were higher in estrogen-treated rabbits relative to controls. Therefore, deficits in PV+ and excess of SST+ neurons in premature newborns are ameliorated by estrogen replacement, which can be attributed to elevated Arx levels. Estrogen replacement might enhance neurodevelopmental outcomes in extremely preterm infants.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Premature birth often leads to neurodevelopmental delays and behavioral disorders, which may be ascribed to disturbances in the development and maturation of cortical interneurons. Here, we show that preterm birth in humans is associated with reduced population of parvalbumin-positive (PV+) neurons and an excess of somatostatin-expressing interneurons in the cerebral cortex. More importantly, 17 β-estradiol treatment increased the number of PV+ neurons in preterm-born rabbits, which appears to be mediated by an elevation in the expression of Arx transcription factor. Hence the present study highlights prematurity-induced reduction in PV+ neurons in human infants and reversal in their population by estrogen replacement in preterm rabbits. Because preterm birth drops plasma estrogen level 100-fold, estrogen replacement in extremely preterm infants might improve their developmental outcome and minimize neurobehavioral disorders.
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Wong JKL, Gui H, Kwok M, Ng PW, Lui CHT, Baum L, Sham PC, Kwan P, Cherny SS. Rare variants and de novo variants in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis. NEUROLOGY-GENETICS 2018; 4:e245. [PMID: 29904720 PMCID: PMC5999346 DOI: 10.1212/nxg.0000000000000245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Objective We investigated the role of rare genetic variants and of de novo variants in the pathogenesis of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy related to hippocampal sclerosis (MTLE-HS). Methods Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed in patients with MTLE-HS and their unaffected parents (trios). Genes or gene sets that were enriched with predicted damaging rare variants in the patients as compared to population controls were identified. Patients and their parents were compared to identify whether the variants were de novo or inherited. Results After quality control, WES data from 47 patients (26 female), including 23 complete trios, were available for analysis. Compared with population controls, significant enrichment of rare variants was observed in SEC24B. Integration of gene set data describing neuronal functions and psychiatric disorders showed enrichment signal on fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) targets. Twenty-one de novo variants were identified, with many known to cause neuropsychiatric disorders. The FMRP-targeted genes also carried more de novo variants. Inherited compound heterozygous and homozygous variants were identified. Conclusions The genetic architecture underlying MTHE-HS is complex. Multiple genes carrying de novo variants and rare variants among FMRP targets were identified, suggesting a pathogenic role. MTLE-HS and other neuropsychiatric disorders may have shared biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- John K L Wong
- Centre for Genomic Sciences and Department of Psychiatry (J.K.L.W., H.G., L.B., P.C.S., S.S.C.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine and Therapeutics (M.K., P.K.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine (P.W.N.), United Christian Hospital; Department of Medicine (C.H.T.L.), Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China; Departments of Medicine and Neurology (P.K.), The University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia; Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (S.S.C.) and Department of Anatomy and Anthropology (S.S.C.), Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel; and The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences (P.C.S., S.S.C.)
| | - Hongsheng Gui
- Centre for Genomic Sciences and Department of Psychiatry (J.K.L.W., H.G., L.B., P.C.S., S.S.C.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine and Therapeutics (M.K., P.K.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine (P.W.N.), United Christian Hospital; Department of Medicine (C.H.T.L.), Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China; Departments of Medicine and Neurology (P.K.), The University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia; Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (S.S.C.) and Department of Anatomy and Anthropology (S.S.C.), Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel; and The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences (P.C.S., S.S.C.)
| | - Maxwell Kwok
- Centre for Genomic Sciences and Department of Psychiatry (J.K.L.W., H.G., L.B., P.C.S., S.S.C.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine and Therapeutics (M.K., P.K.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine (P.W.N.), United Christian Hospital; Department of Medicine (C.H.T.L.), Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China; Departments of Medicine and Neurology (P.K.), The University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia; Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (S.S.C.) and Department of Anatomy and Anthropology (S.S.C.), Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel; and The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences (P.C.S., S.S.C.)
| | - Ping Wing Ng
- Centre for Genomic Sciences and Department of Psychiatry (J.K.L.W., H.G., L.B., P.C.S., S.S.C.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine and Therapeutics (M.K., P.K.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine (P.W.N.), United Christian Hospital; Department of Medicine (C.H.T.L.), Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China; Departments of Medicine and Neurology (P.K.), The University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia; Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (S.S.C.) and Department of Anatomy and Anthropology (S.S.C.), Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel; and The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences (P.C.S., S.S.C.)
| | - Colin H T Lui
- Centre for Genomic Sciences and Department of Psychiatry (J.K.L.W., H.G., L.B., P.C.S., S.S.C.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine and Therapeutics (M.K., P.K.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine (P.W.N.), United Christian Hospital; Department of Medicine (C.H.T.L.), Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China; Departments of Medicine and Neurology (P.K.), The University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia; Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (S.S.C.) and Department of Anatomy and Anthropology (S.S.C.), Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel; and The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences (P.C.S., S.S.C.)
| | - Larry Baum
- Centre for Genomic Sciences and Department of Psychiatry (J.K.L.W., H.G., L.B., P.C.S., S.S.C.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine and Therapeutics (M.K., P.K.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine (P.W.N.), United Christian Hospital; Department of Medicine (C.H.T.L.), Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China; Departments of Medicine and Neurology (P.K.), The University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia; Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (S.S.C.) and Department of Anatomy and Anthropology (S.S.C.), Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel; and The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences (P.C.S., S.S.C.)
| | - Pak Chung Sham
- Centre for Genomic Sciences and Department of Psychiatry (J.K.L.W., H.G., L.B., P.C.S., S.S.C.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine and Therapeutics (M.K., P.K.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine (P.W.N.), United Christian Hospital; Department of Medicine (C.H.T.L.), Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China; Departments of Medicine and Neurology (P.K.), The University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia; Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (S.S.C.) and Department of Anatomy and Anthropology (S.S.C.), Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel; and The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences (P.C.S., S.S.C.)
| | - Patrick Kwan
- Centre for Genomic Sciences and Department of Psychiatry (J.K.L.W., H.G., L.B., P.C.S., S.S.C.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine and Therapeutics (M.K., P.K.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine (P.W.N.), United Christian Hospital; Department of Medicine (C.H.T.L.), Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China; Departments of Medicine and Neurology (P.K.), The University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia; Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (S.S.C.) and Department of Anatomy and Anthropology (S.S.C.), Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel; and The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences (P.C.S., S.S.C.)
| | - Stacey S Cherny
- Centre for Genomic Sciences and Department of Psychiatry (J.K.L.W., H.G., L.B., P.C.S., S.S.C.), Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine and Therapeutics (M.K., P.K.), The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Department of Medicine (P.W.N.), United Christian Hospital; Department of Medicine (C.H.T.L.), Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China; Departments of Medicine and Neurology (P.K.), The University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia; Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (S.S.C.) and Department of Anatomy and Anthropology (S.S.C.), Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel; and The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences (P.C.S., S.S.C.)
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Luo J, Norris RH, Gordon SL, Nithianantharajah J. Neurodevelopmental synaptopathies: Insights from behaviour in rodent models of synapse gene mutations. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 84:424-439. [PMID: 29217145 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The genomic revolution has begun to unveil the enormous complexity and heterogeneity of the genetic basis of neurodevelopmental disorders such as such epilepsy, intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. Increasingly, human mutations in synapse genes are being identified across these disorders. These neurodevelopmental synaptopathies highlight synaptic homeostasis pathways as a convergence point underlying disease mechanisms. Here, we review some of the key pre- and postsynaptic genes in which penetrant human mutations have been identified in neurodevelopmental disorders for which genetic rodent models have been generated. Specifically, we focus on the main behavioural phenotypes that have been documented in these animal models, to consolidate our current understanding of how synapse genes regulate key behavioural and cognitive domains. These studies provide insights into better understanding the basis of the overlapping genetic and cognitive heterogeneity observed in neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Luo
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - R H Norris
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - S L Gordon
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - J Nithianantharajah
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia.
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Ferhat AT, Halbedl S, Schmeisser MJ, Kas MJ, Bourgeron T, Ey E. Behavioural Phenotypes and Neural Circuit Dysfunctions in Mouse Models of Autism Spectrum Disorder. ADVANCES IN ANATOMY EMBRYOLOGY AND CELL BIOLOGY 2018; 224:85-101. [PMID: 28551752 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-52498-6_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition primarily characterised by alterations in social interaction and communication combined with the presence of restricted interests and stereotyped behaviours. Mutations in several genes have been associated with ASD resulting in the generation of corresponding mouse models. Here, we focus on the behavioural (social and stereotyped behaviours), functional and structural traits of mice with mutations in genes encoding defined synaptic proteins including adhesion proteins, scaffolding proteins and subunits of channels and receptors. A meta-analysis on ASD mouse models shows that they can be divided into two subgroups. Cluster I gathered models highly impaired in social interest, stereotyped behaviours, synaptic physiology and protein composition, while Cluster II regrouped much less impaired models, with typical social interactions. This distribution was not related to gene families. Even within the large panel of mouse models carrying mutations in Shank3, the number of mutated isoforms was not related to the severity of the phenotype. Our study points that the majority of structural or functional analyses were performed in the hippocampus. However, to robustly link the structural and functional impairments with the behavioural deficits observed, brain structures forming relevant nodes in networks involved in social and stereotyped behaviours should be targeted in the future. In addition, the characterisation of core ASD-like behaviours needs to be more detailed using new approaches quantifying the variations in social motivation, recognition and stereotyped behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allain-Thibeault Ferhat
- Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions Unit, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,CNRS UMR 3571 Genes, Synapses and Cognition, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, University Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Sonja Halbedl
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany.,International Graduate School in Molecular Medicine, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Michael J Schmeisser
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany.,Division of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.,Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Martien J Kas
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Bourgeron
- Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions Unit, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,CNRS UMR 3571 Genes, Synapses and Cognition, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, University Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France.,FondaMental Foundation, Créteil, France.,Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Elodie Ey
- Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions Unit, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France. .,CNRS UMR 3571 Genes, Synapses and Cognition, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France. .,Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, University Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France.
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Tordjman S, Cohen D, Anderson G, Botbol M, Canitano R, Coulon N, Roubertoux P. Repint of “Reframing autism as a behavioral syndrome and not a specific mental disorder: Implications of genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity”. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 89:132-150. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Revised: 12/18/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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122
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Jiang DY, Wu Z, Forsyth CT, Hu Y, Yee SP, Chen G. GABAergic deficits and schizophrenia-like behaviors in a mouse model carrying patient-derived neuroligin-2 R215H mutation. Mol Brain 2018; 11:31. [PMID: 29859117 PMCID: PMC5984814 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-018-0375-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a severe mental disorder characterized by delusion, hallucination, and cognitive deficits. We have previously identified from schizophrenia patients a loss-of-function mutation Arg215→His215 (R215H) of neuroligin 2 (NLGN2) gene, which encodes a cell adhesion molecule critical for GABAergic synapse formation and function. Here, we generated a novel transgenic mouse line with neuroligin-2 (NL2) R215H mutation. The single point mutation caused a significant loss of NL2 protein in vivo, reduced GABAergic transmission, and impaired hippocampal activation. Importantly, R215H KI mice displayed anxiety-like behavior, impaired pre-pulse inhibition (PPI), cognition deficits and abnormal stress responses, recapitulating several key aspects of schizophrenia-like behaviors. Our results demonstrate a significant impact of a single point mutation NL2 R215H on brain functions, providing a novel animal model for the study of schizophrenia and neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Yun Jiang
- Department of Biology, Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802 USA
| | - Zheng Wu
- Department of Biology, Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802 USA
| | - Cody Tieu Forsyth
- Department of Biology, Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802 USA
| | - Yi Hu
- Department of Biology, Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802 USA
| | - Siu-Pok Yee
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health center, Farmington, CT 06030 USA
| | - Gong Chen
- Department of Biology, Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802 USA
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Um SM, Ha S, Lee H, Kim J, Kim K, Shin W, Cho YS, Roh JD, Kang J, Yoo T, Noh YW, Choi Y, Bae YC, Kim E. NGL-2 Deletion Leads to Autistic-like Behaviors Responsive to NMDAR Modulation. Cell Rep 2018; 23:3839-3851. [DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.05.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2017] [Revised: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
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Rhee J, Park K, Kim KC, Shin CY, Chung C. Impaired Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity and Enhanced Excitatory Transmission in a Novel Animal Model of Autism Spectrum Disorders with Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Overexpression. Mol Cells 2018; 41:486-494. [PMID: 29696935 PMCID: PMC5974625 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2018.0145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, we have reported that animals with telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) overexpression exhibit reduced social interaction, decreased preference for novel social interaction and poor nest-building behaviors symptoms that mirror those observed in human autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Overexpression of TERT also alters the excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) ratio in the medial prefrontal cortex. However, the effects of TERT overexpression on hippocampal-dependent learning and synaptic efficacy have not been investigated. In the present study, we employed electrophysiological approaches in combination with behavioral analysis to examine hippocampal function of TERT transgenic (TERT-tg) mice and FVB controls. We found that TERT overexpression results in enhanced hippocampal excitation with no changes in inhibition and significantly impairs long-term synaptic plasticity. Interestingly, the expression levels of phosphorylated CREB and phosphory-lated CaMKIIα were significantly decreased while the expression level of CaMKIIα was slightly increased in the hippocampus of TERT-overexpressing mice. Our observations highlight the importance of TERT in normal synaptic function and behavior and provide additional information on a novel animal model of ASD associated with TERT overexpression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeehae Rhee
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029,
Korea
| | - Kwanghoon Park
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029,
Korea
| | - Ki Chan Kim
- Department of Neuroscience and Department of Advanced Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029,
Korea
| | - Chan Young Shin
- Department of Neuroscience and Department of Advanced Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029,
Korea
| | - ChiHye Chung
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029,
Korea
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Choi SB, Lombard-Banek C, Muñoz-LLancao P, Manzini MC, Nemes P. Enhanced Peptide Detection Toward Single-Neuron Proteomics by Reversed-Phase Fractionation Capillary Electrophoresis Mass Spectrometry. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2018; 29:913-922. [PMID: 29147852 DOI: 10.1007/s13361-017-1838-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Revised: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 10/14/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The ability to detect peptides and proteins in single cells is vital for understanding cell heterogeneity in the nervous system. Capillary electrophoresis (CE) nanoelectrospray ionization (nanoESI) provides high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) with trace-level sensitivity, but compressed separation during CE challenges protein identification by tandem HRMS with limited MS/MS duty cycle. Here, we supplemented ultrasensitive CE-nanoESI-HRMS with reversed-phase (RP) fractionation to enhance identifications from protein digest amounts that approximate to a few mammalian neurons. An ~1 to 20 μg neuronal protein digest was fractionated on a RP column (ZipTip), and 1 ng to 500 pg of peptides were analyzed by a custom-built CE-HRMS system. Compared with the control (no fractionation), RP fractionation improved CE separation (theoretical plates ~274,000 versus 412,000 maximum, resp.), which enhanced detection sensitivity (2.5-fold higher signal-to-noise ratio), minimized co-isolation spectral interferences during MS/MS, and increased the temporal rate of peptide identification by up to ~57%. From 1 ng of protein digest (<5 neurons), CE with RP fractionation identified 737 protein groups (1,753 peptides), or ~480 protein groups (~1,650 peptides) on average per analysis. The approach was scalable to 500 pg of protein digest (~a single neuron), identifying 225 protein groups (623 peptides) in technical triplicates, or 141 protein groups on average per analysis. Among identified proteins, 101 proteins were products of genes that are known to be transcriptionally active in single neurons during early development of the brain, including those involved in synaptic transmission and plasticity and cytoskeletal organization. Graphical abstract ᅟ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam B Choi
- Department of Chemistry, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| | - Camille Lombard-Banek
- Department of Chemistry, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| | - Pablo Muñoz-LLancao
- Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| | - M Chiara Manzini
- Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| | - Peter Nemes
- Department of Chemistry, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, 20052, USA.
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA.
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Tu R, Qian J, Rui M, Tao N, Sun M, Zhuang Y, Lv H, Han J, Li M, Xie W. Proteolytic cleavage is required for functional neuroligin 2 maturation and trafficking in Drosophila. J Mol Cell Biol 2018; 9:231-242. [PMID: 28498949 PMCID: PMC5907836 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjx015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroligins (Nlgs) are transmembrane cell adhesion molecules playing essential roles in synapse development and function. Genetic mutations in neuroligin genes have been linked with some neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism. These mutated Nlgs are mostly retained in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). However, the mechanisms underlying normal Nlg maturation and trafficking have remained largely unknown. Here, we found that Drosophila neuroligin 2 (DNlg2) undergoes proteolytic cleavage in the ER in a variety of Drosophila tissues throughout developmental stages. A region encompassing Y642-T698 is required for this process. The immature non-cleavable DNlg2 is retained in the ER and non-functional. The C-terminal fragment of DNlg2 instead of the full-length or non-cleavable DNlg2 is able to rescue neuromuscular junction defects and GluRIIB reduction induced by dnlg2 deletion. Intriguingly, the autism-associated R598C mutation in DNlg2 leads to similar marked defects in DNlg2 proteolytic process and ER export, revealing a potential role of the improper Nlg cleavage in autism pathogenesis. Collectively, our findings uncover a specific mechanism that controls DNlg2 maturation and trafficking via proteolytic cleavage in the ER, suggesting that the perturbed proteolytic cleavage of Nlgs likely contributes to autism disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renjun Tu
- Institute of Life Sciences, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Southeast University, 2 SiPaiLou Road, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Jinjun Qian
- Institute of Life Sciences, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Southeast University, 2 SiPaiLou Road, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Menglong Rui
- The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Southeast University, 2 SiPaiLou Road, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Nana Tao
- Institute of Life Sciences, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Southeast University, 2 SiPaiLou Road, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Mingkuan Sun
- The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Southeast University, 2 SiPaiLou Road, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Yan Zhuang
- The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Southeast University, 2 SiPaiLou Road, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Huihui Lv
- Institute of Life Sciences, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Southeast University, 2 SiPaiLou Road, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Junhai Han
- Institute of Life Sciences, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Southeast University, 2 SiPaiLou Road, Nanjing 210096, China.,The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Southeast University, 2 SiPaiLou Road, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Moyi Li
- Institute of Life Sciences, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Southeast University, 2 SiPaiLou Road, Nanjing 210096, China.,The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Southeast University, 2 SiPaiLou Road, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Wei Xie
- Institute of Life Sciences, The Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Southeast University, 2 SiPaiLou Road, Nanjing 210096, China.,The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Southeast University, 2 SiPaiLou Road, Nanjing 210096, China
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Thomas AM, Schwartz MD, Saxe MD, Kilduff TS. Sleep/Wake Physiology and Quantitative Electroencephalogram Analysis of the Neuroligin-3 Knockout Rat Model of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Sleep 2018; 40:4100612. [PMID: 28958035 DOI: 10.1093/sleep/zsx138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Study Objectives Neuroligin-3 (NLGN3) is one of the many genes associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Sleep dysfunction is highly prevalent in ASD, but has not been rigorously examined in ASD models. Here, we evaluated sleep/wake physiology and behavioral phenotypes of rats with genetic ablation of Nlgn3. Methods Male Nlgn3 knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) rats were assessed using a test battery for ASD-related behaviors and also implanted with telemeters to record the electroencephalogram (EEG), electromyogram, body temperature, and locomotor activity. 24-h EEG recordings were analyzed for sleep/wake states and spectral composition. Results Nlgn3 KO rats were hyperactive, exhibited excessive chewing behavior, and had impaired prepulse inhibition to an auditory startle stimulus. KO rats also spent less time in non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, more time in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, exhibited elevated theta power (4-9 Hz) during wakefulness and REM, and elevated delta power (0.5-4 Hz) during NREM. Beta (12-30 Hz) power and gamma (30-50 Hz) power were suppressed across all vigilance states. Conclusions The sleep disruptions in Nlgn3 KO rats are consistent with observations of sleep disturbances in ASD patients. The EEG provides objective measures of brain function to complement rodent behavioral analyses and therefore may be a useful tool to study ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexia M Thomas
- Center for Neuroscience, Biosciences Division, SRI International, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Michael D Schwartz
- Center for Neuroscience, Biosciences Division, SRI International, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Michael D Saxe
- Pharma Research and Early Development, Neuroscience, Ophthalmology and Rare Disease DTA, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Switzerland.,Michael D. Saxe is now at Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, 250 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Thomas S Kilduff
- Center for Neuroscience, Biosciences Division, SRI International, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
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128
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Wnt/β-catenin signaling stimulates the expression and synaptic clustering of the autism-associated Neuroligin 3 gene. Transl Psychiatry 2018; 8:45. [PMID: 29503438 PMCID: PMC5835496 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-018-0093-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Revised: 09/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Synaptic abnormalities have been described in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The cell-adhesion molecule Neuroligin-3 (Nlgn3) has an essential role in the function and maturation of synapses and NLGN3 ASD-associated mutations disrupt hippocampal and cortical function. Here we show that Wnt/β-catenin signaling increases Nlgn3 mRNA and protein levels in HT22 mouse hippocampal cells and primary cultures of rat hippocampal neurons. We characterized the activity of mouse and rat Nlgn3 promoter constructs containing conserved putative T-cell factor/lymphoid enhancing factor (TCF/LEF)-binding elements (TBE) and found that their activity is significantly augmented in Wnt/β-catenin cell reporter assays. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays and site-directed mutagenesis experiments revealed that endogenous β-catenin binds to novel TBE consensus sequences in the Nlgn3 promoter. Moreover, activation of the signaling cascade increased Nlgn3 clustering and co- localization with the scaffold PSD-95 protein in dendritic processes of primary neurons. Our results directly link Wnt/β-catenin signaling to the transcription of the Nlgn3 gene and support a functional role for the signaling pathway in the dysregulation of excitatory/inhibitory neuronal activity, as is observed in animal models of ASD.
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129
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Cao W, Lin S, Xia QQ, Du YL, Yang Q, Zhang MY, Lu YQ, Xu J, Duan SM, Xia J, Feng G, Xu J, Luo JH. Gamma Oscillation Dysfunction in mPFC Leads to Social Deficits in Neuroligin 3 R451C Knockin Mice. Neuron 2018; 97:1253-1260.e7. [PMID: 29503190 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2018.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Neuroligins (NLs) are critical for synapse formation and function. NL3 R451C is an autism-associated mutation. NL3 R451C knockin (KI) mice exhibit autistic behavioral abnormalities, including social novelty deficits. However, neither the brain regions involved in social novelty nor the underlying mechanisms are clearly understood. Here, we found decreased excitability of fast-spiking interneurons and dysfunction of gamma oscillation in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), which contributed to the social novelty deficit in the KI mice. Neuronal firing rates and phase-coding abnormalities were also detected in the KI mice during social interactions. Interestingly, optogenetic stimulation of parvalbumin interneurons in the mPFC at 40 Hz nested at 8 Hz positively modulated the social behaviors of mice and rescued the social novelty deficit in the KI mice. Our findings suggest that gamma oscillation dysfunction in the mPFC leads to social deficits in autism, and manipulating mPFC PV interneurons may reverse the deficits in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Cao
- Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of the Ministry of Health of China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Shen Lin
- Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of the Ministry of Health of China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Qiang-Qiang Xia
- Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of the Ministry of Health of China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Yong-Lan Du
- Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of the Ministry of Health of China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of the Ministry of Health of China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Meng-Ying Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of the Ministry of Health of China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Yi-Qing Lu
- Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of the Ministry of Health of China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of the Ministry of Health of China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Shu-Min Duan
- Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of the Ministry of Health of China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Jun Xia
- Division of Life Science, Division of Biomedical Engineering and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Guoping Feng
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Junyu Xu
- Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of the Ministry of Health of China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China.
| | - Jian-Hong Luo
- Department of Neurobiology, Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology of the Ministry of Health of China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China.
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130
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Common Pathophysiology in Multiple Mouse Models of Pitt-Hopkins Syndrome. J Neurosci 2017; 38:918-936. [PMID: 29222403 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1305-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Revised: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations or deletions of the transcription factor TCF4 are linked to Pitt-Hopkins syndrome (PTHS) and schizophrenia, suggesting that the precise pathogenic mutations dictate cellular, synaptic, and behavioral consequences. Here, we generated two novel mouse models of PTHS, one that mimics the most common pathogenic TCF4 point mutation (human R580W, mouse R579W) and one that deletes three pathogenic arginines, and explored phenotypes of these lines alongside models of pan-cellular or CNS-specific heterozygous Tcf4 disruption. We used mice of both sexes to show that impaired Tcf4 function results in consistent microcephaly, hyperactivity, reduced anxiety, and deficient spatial learning. All four PTHS mouse models demonstrated exaggerated hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP), consistent with deficits in hippocampus-mediated behaviors. We further examined R579W mutant mice and mice with pan-cellular Tcf4 heterozygosity and found that they exhibited hippocampal NMDA receptor hyperfunction, which likely drives the enhanced LTP. Together, our data pinpoint convergent neurobiological features in PTHS mouse models and provide a foundation for preclinical studies and a rationale for testing whether NMDAR antagonists might be used to treat PTHS.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Pitt-Hopkins syndrome (PTHS) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder associated with TCF4 mutations/deletions. Despite this genetic insight, there is a need to identify the function of TCF4 in the brain. Toward this goal, we developed two mouse lines, including one harboring the most prevalent pathogenic point mutation, and compared them with two existing models that conditionally delete Tcf4 Our data identify a set of overlapping phenotypes that may serve as outcome measures for preclinical studies of PTHS treatments. We also discovered penetrant enhanced synaptic plasticity across mouse models that may be linked to increased NMDA receptor function. These data reveal convergent neurobiological characteristics of PTHS mouse models and support the further investigation of NMDA receptor antagonists as a possible PTHS treatment.
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131
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Kasem E, Kurihara T, Tabuchi K. Neurexins and neuropsychiatric disorders. Neurosci Res 2017; 127:53-60. [PMID: 29221905 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2017.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2017] [Revised: 09/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Neurexins are a family of presynaptic single-pass transmembrane proteins that act as synaptic organizers in mammals. The neurexins consist of three genes (NRXN1, NRXN2, and NRXN3), each of which produces a longer α- and shorter β-form. Genomic alterations in NRXN genes have been identified in a wide variety of neuropsychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorders (ASD), schizophrenia, intellectual disability (ID), and addiction. Remarkably, a bi-allelic deficiency of NRXN1 was recently linked to Pitt-Hopkins syndrome. The fact that some mono-allelic functional variants of NRXNs are also found in healthy controls indicates that other genetic or environmental factors affect the penetrance of NRXN deficiency. In this review, we summarize the common research methods and representative results of human genetic studies that have implicated NRXN variants in various neuropsychiatric disorders. We also summarize studies of rodent models with NRXN deficiencies that complement our knowledge of human genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enas Kasem
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Physiology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, 3-1-1 Asahi, Matsumoto, 390-8621 Japan
| | - Taiga Kurihara
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Physiology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, 3-1-1 Asahi, Matsumoto, 390-8621 Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Tabuchi
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Physiology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, 3-1-1 Asahi, Matsumoto, 390-8621 Japan; Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Cutting Edge Research, Shinshu University, Matsumoto 390-8621, Japan.
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132
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Südhof TC. Synaptic Neurexin Complexes: A Molecular Code for the Logic of Neural Circuits. Cell 2017; 171:745-769. [PMID: 29100073 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2017.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 471] [Impact Index Per Article: 67.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/15/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Synapses are specialized junctions between neurons in brain that transmit and compute information, thereby connecting neurons into millions of overlapping and interdigitated neural circuits. Here, we posit that the establishment, properties, and dynamics of synapses are governed by a molecular logic that is controlled by diverse trans-synaptic signaling molecules. Neurexins, expressed in thousands of alternatively spliced isoforms, are central components of this dynamic code. Presynaptic neurexins regulate synapse properties via differential binding to multifarious postsynaptic ligands, such as neuroligins, cerebellin/GluD complexes, and latrophilins, thereby shaping the input/output relations of their resident neural circuits. Mutations in genes encoding neurexins and their ligands are associated with diverse neuropsychiatric disorders, especially schizophrenia, autism, and Tourette syndrome. Thus, neurexins nucleate an overall trans-synaptic signaling network that controls synapse properties, which thereby determines the precise responses of synapses to spike patterns in a neuron and circuit and which is vulnerable to impairments in neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C Südhof
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University Medical School, 265 Campus Drive, CA 94305-5453, USA.
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133
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Jaramillo TC, Escamilla CO, Liu S, Peca L, Birnbaum SG, Powell CM. Genetic background effects in Neuroligin-3 mutant mice: Minimal behavioral abnormalities on C57 background. Autism Res 2017; 11:234-244. [PMID: 29028156 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Neuroligin-3 (NLGN3) is a postsynaptic cell adhesion protein that interacts with presynaptic ligands including neurexin-1 (NRXN1) [Ichtchenko et al., Journal of Biological Chemistry, 271, 2676-2682, 1996]. Mice harboring a mutation in the NLGN3 gene (NL3R451C) mimicking a mutation found in two brothers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were previously generated and behaviorally phenotyped for autism-related behaviors. In these NL3R451C mice generated and tested on a hybrid C57BL6J/129S2/SvPasCrl background, we observed enhanced spatial memory and reduced social interaction [Tabuchi et al., Science, 318, 71-76, 2007]. Curiously, an independently generated second line of mice harboring the same mutation on a C57BL6J background exhibited minimal aberrant behavior, thereby providing apparently discrepant results. To investigate the origin of the discrepancy, we previously replicated the original findings of Tabuchi et al. by studying the same NL3R451C mutation on a pure 129S2/SvPasCrl genetic background. Here we complete the behavioral characterization of the NL3R451C mutation on a pure C57BL6J genetic background to determine if background genetics play a role in the discrepant behavioral outcomes involving NL3R451C mice. NL3R451C mutant mice on a pure C57BL6J background did not display spatial memory enhancements or social interaction deficits. We only observed a decreased startle response and mildly increased locomotor activity in these mice suggesting that background genetics influences behavioral outcomes involving the NL3R451C mutation. Autism Res 2018, 11: 234-244. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY Behavioral symptoms of autism can be highly variable, even in cases that involve identical genetic mutations. Previous studies in mice with a mutation of the Neuroligin-3 gene showed enhanced learning and social deficits. We replicated these findings on the same and different genetic backgrounds. In this study, however, the same mutation in mice on a different genetic background did not reproduce our previous findings. Our results suggest that genetic background influences behavioral symptoms of this autism-associated mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C Jaramillo
- Department of Neurology & Neurotherapeutics, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390-8813
| | - Christine Ochoa Escamilla
- Department of Neurology & Neurotherapeutics, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390-8813.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390
| | - Shunan Liu
- Department of Neurology & Neurotherapeutics, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390-8813
| | - Lauren Peca
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390-9170
| | - Shari G Birnbaum
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390-9170
| | - Craig M Powell
- Department of Neurology & Neurotherapeutics, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390-8813.,Department of Psychiatry, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390-9170.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390.,Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390
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134
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Pelkey KA, Chittajallu R, Craig MT, Tricoire L, Wester JC, McBain CJ. Hippocampal GABAergic Inhibitory Interneurons. Physiol Rev 2017; 97:1619-1747. [PMID: 28954853 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00007.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 490] [Impact Index Per Article: 70.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In the hippocampus GABAergic local circuit inhibitory interneurons represent only ~10-15% of the total neuronal population; however, their remarkable anatomical and physiological diversity allows them to regulate virtually all aspects of cellular and circuit function. Here we provide an overview of the current state of the field of interneuron research, focusing largely on the hippocampus. We discuss recent advances related to the various cell types, including their development and maturation, expression of subtype-specific voltage- and ligand-gated channels, and their roles in network oscillations. We also discuss recent technological advances and approaches that have permitted high-resolution, subtype-specific examination of their roles in numerous neural circuit disorders and the emerging therapeutic strategies to ameliorate such pathophysiological conditions. The ultimate goal of this review is not only to provide a touchstone for the current state of the field, but to help pave the way for future research by highlighting where gaps in our knowledge exist and how a complete appreciation of their roles will aid in future therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth A Pelkey
- Porter Neuroscience Center, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom; and Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University of Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Ramesh Chittajallu
- Porter Neuroscience Center, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom; and Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University of Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Michael T Craig
- Porter Neuroscience Center, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom; and Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University of Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Ludovic Tricoire
- Porter Neuroscience Center, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom; and Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University of Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Jason C Wester
- Porter Neuroscience Center, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom; and Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University of Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Chris J McBain
- Porter Neuroscience Center, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom; and Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University of Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
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135
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Martella G, Meringolo M, Trobiani L, De Jaco A, Pisani A, Bonsi P. The neurobiological bases of autism spectrum disorders: the R451C-neuroligin 3 mutation hampers the expression of long-term synaptic depression in the dorsal striatum. Eur J Neurosci 2017; 47:701-708. [PMID: 28921757 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Revised: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) comprise a heterogeneous group of disorders with a complex genetic etiology. Current theories on the pathogenesis of ASDs suggest that they might arise from an aberrant synaptic transmission affecting specific brain circuits and synapses. The striatum, which is part of the basal ganglia circuit, is one of the brain regions involved in ASDs. Mouse models of ASDs have provided evidence for an imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission. Here, we investigated the expression of long-term synaptic plasticity at corticostriatal glutamatergic synapses in the dorsal striatum of the R451C-NL3 phenotypic mouse model of autism. This mouse model carries the human R451C mutation in the neuroligin 3 (NL3) gene that has been associated with highly penetrant autism in a Swedish family. The R451C-NL3 mouse has been shown to exhibit autistic-like behaviors and alterations of synaptic transmission in different brain areas. However, excitatory glutamatergic transmission and its long-term plasticity have not been investigated in the dorsal striatum so far. Our results indicate that the expression of long-term synaptic depression (LTD) at corticostriatal glutamatergic synapses in the dorsal striatum is impaired by the R451C-NL3 mutation. A partial rescue of LTD was obtained by exogenous activation of cannabinoid CB1 receptors or enhancement of the endocannabinoid tone, suggesting that an altered cannabinoid drive might underlie the deficit of synaptic plasticity in the dorsal striatum of R451C-NL3 mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Martella
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Plasticity, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy.,Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Meringolo
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Plasticity, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy.,Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Trobiani
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies 'Charles Darwin', Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella De Jaco
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies 'Charles Darwin', Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Pisani
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Plasticity, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy.,Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Bonsi
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Plasticity, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
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136
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Varghese M, Keshav N, Jacot-Descombes S, Warda T, Wicinski B, Dickstein DL, Harony-Nicolas H, De Rubeis S, Drapeau E, Buxbaum JD, Hof PR. Autism spectrum disorder: neuropathology and animal models. Acta Neuropathol 2017; 134:537-566. [PMID: 28584888 PMCID: PMC5693718 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-017-1736-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 288] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 05/30/2017] [Accepted: 05/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has a major impact on the development and social integration of affected individuals and is the most heritable of psychiatric disorders. An increase in the incidence of ASD cases has prompted a surge in research efforts on the underlying neuropathologic processes. We present an overview of current findings in neuropathology studies of ASD using two investigational approaches, postmortem human brains and ASD animal models, and discuss the overlap, limitations, and significance of each. Postmortem examination of ASD brains has revealed global changes including disorganized gray and white matter, increased number of neurons, decreased volume of neuronal soma, and increased neuropil, the last reflecting changes in densities of dendritic spines, cerebral vasculature and glia. Both cortical and non-cortical areas show region-specific abnormalities in neuronal morphology and cytoarchitectural organization, with consistent findings reported from the prefrontal cortex, fusiform gyrus, frontoinsular cortex, cingulate cortex, hippocampus, amygdala, cerebellum and brainstem. The paucity of postmortem human studies linking neuropathology to the underlying etiology has been partly addressed using animal models to explore the impact of genetic and non-genetic factors clinically relevant for the ASD phenotype. Genetically modified models include those based on well-studied monogenic ASD genes (NLGN3, NLGN4, NRXN1, CNTNAP2, SHANK3, MECP2, FMR1, TSC1/2), emerging risk genes (CHD8, SCN2A, SYNGAP1, ARID1B, GRIN2B, DSCAM, TBR1), and copy number variants (15q11-q13 deletion, 15q13.3 microdeletion, 15q11-13 duplication, 16p11.2 deletion and duplication, 22q11.2 deletion). Models of idiopathic ASD include inbred rodent strains that mimic ASD behaviors as well as models developed by environmental interventions such as prenatal exposure to sodium valproate, maternal autoantibodies, and maternal immune activation. In addition to replicating some of the neuropathologic features seen in postmortem studies, a common finding in several animal models of ASD is altered density of dendritic spines, with the direction of the change depending on the specific genetic modification, age and brain region. Overall, postmortem neuropathologic studies with larger sample sizes representative of the various ASD risk genes and diverse clinical phenotypes are warranted to clarify putative etiopathogenic pathways further and to promote the emergence of clinically relevant diagnostic and therapeutic tools. In addition, as genetic alterations may render certain individuals more vulnerable to developing the pathological changes at the synapse underlying the behavioral manifestations of ASD, neuropathologic investigation using genetically modified animal models will help to improve our understanding of the disease mechanisms and enhance the development of targeted treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merina Varghese
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Box 1639, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Neha Keshav
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Box 1639, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Sarah Jacot-Descombes
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Box 1639, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Children and Teenagers, University Hospitals and School of Medicine, Geneva, CH-1205, Switzerland
| | - Tahia Warda
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Box 1639, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Bridget Wicinski
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Box 1639, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Dara L Dickstein
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Box 1639, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Hala Harony-Nicolas
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Silvia De Rubeis
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Elodie Drapeau
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Joseph D Buxbaum
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Box 1639, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Patrick R Hof
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Box 1639, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
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Developmental plasticity shapes synaptic phenotypes of autism-associated neuroligin-3 mutations in the calyx of Held. Mol Psychiatry 2017; 22:1483-1491. [PMID: 27725662 PMCID: PMC5687809 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2016.157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Revised: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Neuroligins are postsynaptic cell-adhesion molecules that bind to presynaptic neurexins. Mutations in neuroligin-3 predispose to autism, but how such mutations affect synaptic function remains incompletely understood. Here we systematically examined the effect of three autism-associated mutations, the neuroligin-3 knockout, the R451C knockin, and the R704C knockin, on synaptic transmission in the calyx of Held, a central synapse ideally suited for high-resolution analyses of synaptic transmission. Surprisingly, germline knockout of neuroligin-3 did not alter synaptic transmission, whereas the neuroligin-3 R451C and R704C knockins decreased and increased, respectively, synaptic transmission. These puzzling results prompted us to ask whether neuroligin-3 mutant phenotypes may be reshaped by developmental plasticity. Indeed, conditional knockout of neuroligin-3 during late development produced a marked synaptic phenotype, whereas conditional knockout of neuroligin-3 during early development caused no detectable effect, mimicking the germline knockout. In canvassing potentially redundant candidate genes, we identified developmentally early expression of another synaptic neurexin ligand, cerebellin-1. Strikingly, developmentally early conditional knockout of cerebellin-1 only modestly impaired synaptic transmission, whereas in contrast to the individual single knockouts, developmentally early conditional double knockout of both cerebellin-1 and neuroligin-3 severely decreased synaptic transmission. Our data suggest an unanticipated mechanism of developmental compensation whereby cerebellin-1 and neuroligin-3 functionally occlude each other during development of calyx synapses. Thus, although acute manipulations more likely reveal basic gene functions, developmental plasticity can be a major factor in shaping the overall phenotypes of genetic neuropsychiatric disorders.
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138
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Targeting neuronal activity-regulated neuroligin-3 dependency in high-grade glioma. Nature 2017; 549:533-537. [PMID: 28959975 PMCID: PMC5891832 DOI: 10.1038/nature24014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 311] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
High-grade gliomas (HGG) are a devastating group of cancers, representing the leading cause of brain tumor-related death in both children and adults. Therapies aimed at mechanisms intrinsic to the glioma cell have translated to only limited success; effective therapeutic strategies will need to also target elements of the tumor microenvironment that promote glioma progression. We recently demonstrated that neuronal activity robustly promotes the growth of a range of molecularly and clinically distinct HGG types, including adult glioblastoma (GBM), anaplastic oligodendroglioma, pediatric GBM, and diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG)1. An important mechanism mediating this neural regulation of brain cancer is activity-dependent cleavage and secretion of the synaptic molecule neuroligin-3 (NLGN3), which promotes glioma proliferation through the PI3K-mTOR pathway1. However, neuroligin-3 necessity to glioma growth, proteolytic mechanism of secretion and further molecular consequences in glioma remain to be clarified. Here, we demonstrate a striking dependence of HGG growth on microenvironmental neuroligin-3, elucidate signaling cascades downstream of neuroligin-3 binding in glioma and determine a therapeutically targetable mechanism of secretion. Patient-derived orthotopic xenografts of pediatric GBM, DIPG and adult GBM fail to grow in Nlgn3 knockout mice. Neuroligin-3 stimulates numerous oncogenic pathways, including early focal adhesion kinase activation upstream of PI3K-mTOR, and induces transcriptional changes including upregulation of numerous synapse-related genes in glioma cells. Neuroligin-3 is cleaved from both neurons and oligodendrocyte precursor cells via the ADAM10 sheddase. ADAM10 inhibitors prevent release of neuroligin-3 into the tumor microenvironment and robustly block HGG xenograft growth. This work defines a promising strategy for targeting neuroligin-3 secretion, which could prove transformative for HGG therapy.
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139
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The Endocannabinoid System and Autism Spectrum Disorders: Insights from Animal Models. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18091916. [PMID: 28880200 PMCID: PMC5618565 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18091916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Revised: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) defines a group of neurodevelopmental disorders whose symptoms include impaired communication and social interaction with restricted or repetitive motor movements, frequently associated with general cognitive deficits. Although it is among the most severe chronic childhood disorders in terms of prevalence, morbidity, and impact to the society, no effective treatment for ASD is yet available, possibly because its neurobiological basis is not clearly understood hence specific drugs have not yet been developed. The endocannabinoid (EC) system represents a major neuromodulatory system involved in the regulation of emotional responses, behavioral reactivity to context, and social interaction. Furthermore, the EC system is also affected in conditions often present in subsets of patients diagnosed with ASD, such as seizures, anxiety, intellectual disabilities, and sleep pattern disturbances. Despite the indirect evidence suggestive of an involvement of the EC system in ASD, only a few studies have specifically addressed the role of the EC system in the context of ASD. This review describes the available data on the investigation of the presence of alterations of the EC system as well as the effects of its pharmacological manipulations in animal models of ASD-like behaviors.
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140
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Elegheert J, Cvetkovska V, Clayton AJ, Heroven C, Vennekens KM, Smukowski SN, Regan MC, Jia W, Smith AC, Furukawa H, Savas JN, de Wit J, Begbie J, Craig AM, Aricescu AR. Structural Mechanism for Modulation of Synaptic Neuroligin-Neurexin Signaling by MDGA Proteins. Neuron 2017; 95:896-913.e10. [PMID: 28817804 PMCID: PMC5563082 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2017.07.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Neuroligin-neurexin (NL-NRX) complexes are fundamental synaptic organizers in the central nervous system. An accurate spatial and temporal control of NL-NRX signaling is crucial to balance excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission, and perturbations are linked with neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. MDGA proteins bind NLs and control their function and interaction with NRXs via unknown mechanisms. Here, we report crystal structures of MDGA1, the NL1-MDGA1 complex, and a spliced NL1 isoform. Two large, multi-domain MDGA molecules fold into rigid triangular structures, cradling a dimeric NL to prevent NRX binding. Structural analyses guided the discovery of a broad, splicing-modulated interaction network between MDGA and NL family members and helped rationalize the impact of autism-linked mutations. We demonstrate that expression levels largely determine whether MDGAs act selectively or suppress the synapse organizing function of multiple NLs. These results illustrate a potentially brain-wide regulatory mechanism for NL-NRX signaling modulation. The MDGA1 extracellular region has an unusual triangular multi-domain arrangement The NL1-MDGA1 complex structure reveals how MDGA proteins block neurexin binding MDGA1 and MDGA2 bind all NL isoforms, a process fine-tuned by alternative splicing MDGA1 and MDGA2 suppress NL synaptogenic activity in a concentration-dependent manner
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Elegheert
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK.
| | - Vedrana Cvetkovska
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health and Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada
| | - Amber J Clayton
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Christina Heroven
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK; MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Kristel M Vennekens
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium; Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Samuel N Smukowski
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Michael C Regan
- Keck Structural Biology Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, USA
| | - Wanyi Jia
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Alexandra C Smith
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QX, UK
| | - Hiro Furukawa
- Keck Structural Biology Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, USA
| | - Jeffrey N Savas
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Joris de Wit
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium; Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jo Begbie
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QX, UK
| | - Ann Marie Craig
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health and Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada.
| | - A Radu Aricescu
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK; MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK.
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141
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Neuroligins Are Selectively Essential for NMDAR Signaling in Cerebellar Stellate Interneurons. J Neurosci 2017; 36:9070-83. [PMID: 27581450 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1356-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 07/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Neuroligins are postsynaptic cell-adhesion molecules that contribute to synapse specification. However, many other postsynaptic cell-adhesion molecules are known and the relative contributions of neuroligins versus other such molecules in different types of synapses and neurons remains largely unknown. Here, we have studied the role of neuroligins in cerebellar stellate interneurons that participate in a well defined circuit that converges on Purkinje cells as the major output neurons of cerebellar cortex. By crossing triple conditional knock-out (cKO) mice targeting all three major neuroligins [neuroligin-1 to neuroligin-3 (NL123)] with parvalbumin-Cre (PV-Cre) transgenic mice, we deleted neuroligins from inhibitory cerebellar interneurons and Purkinje cells, allowing us to study the effects of neuroligin deletions on cerebellar stellate cell synapses by electrophysiology in acute slices. PV-Cre/NL123 cKO mice did not exhibit gross alterations of cerebellar structure or cerebellar interneuron morphology. Strikingly, electrophysiological recordings in stellate cells from these PV-Cre/NL123 cKO mice revealed a large decrease in NMDAR-mediated excitatory synaptic responses, which, in stellate cells, are largely extrasynaptic, without a change in AMPA-receptor-mediated responses. Parallel analyses in PV-Cre/NL1 mice that are single NL1 cKO mice uncovered the same phenotype, demonstrating that NL1 is responsible for recruiting extrasynaptic NMDARs. Moreover, we observed only a modest impairment in inhibitory synaptic responses in stellate cells lacking NL123 despite a nearly complete suppression of inhibitory synaptic transmission in Purkinje cells by the same genetic manipulation. Our results suggest that, unlike other types of neurons investigated, neuroligins are selectively essential in cerebellar stellate interneurons for enabling the function of extrasynaptic NMDARs. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Neuroligins are postsynaptic cell-adhesion molecules genetically linked to autism. However, the contributions of neuroligins to interneuron functions remain largely unknown. Here, we analyzed the role of neuroligins in cerebellar stellate interneurons. We deleted neuroligin-1, neuroligin-2, and neuroligin-3, the major cerebellar neuroligin isoforms, from stellate cells in triple NL123 conditional knock-out mice and analyzed synaptic responses by acute slice electrophysiology. We find that neuroligins are selectively essential for extrasynaptic NMDAR-mediated signaling, but dispensable for both AMPAR-mediated and inhibitory synaptic transmission. Our results reveal a critical and selective role for neuroligins in the regulation of NMDAR responses in cerebellar stellate interneurons.
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142
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Krueger-Burg D, Papadopoulos T, Brose N. Organizers of inhibitory synapses come of age. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2017; 45:66-77. [DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2017.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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143
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Jang S, Lee H, Kim E. Synaptic adhesion molecules and excitatory synaptic transmission. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2017; 45:45-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2017.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 03/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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144
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Crider A, Ahmed AO, Pillai A. Altered Expression of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Related Genes in the Middle Frontal Cortex of Subjects with Autism Spectrum Disorder. MOLECULAR NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2017; 3:85-91. [PMID: 29230396 DOI: 10.1159/000477212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is an important organelle responsible for the folding and sorting of proteins. Disturbances in ER homeostasis can trigger a cellular response known as the unfolded protein response, leading to accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins in the ER lumen called ER stress. A number of recent studies suggest that mutations in autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-susceptible synaptic genes induce ER stress. However, it is not known whether ER stress-related genes are altered in the brain of ASD subjects. In the present study, we investigated the mRNA expression of ER stress-related genes (ATF4, ATF6, PERK, XBP1, sXBP1, CHOP, and IRE1) in the postmortem middle frontal gyrus of ASD and control subjects. RT-PCR analysis showed significant increases in the mRNA levels of ATF4, ATF6, PERK, XBP1, CHOP, and IRE1 in the middle frontal gyrus of ASD subjects. In addition, we found a significant positive association of mRNA levels of ER stress genes with the diagnostic score for stereotyped behavior in ASD subjects. These results, for the first time, provide the evidence of the dysregulation of ER stress genes in the brain of subjects with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Crider
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, Augusta University, Augusta, GA
| | - Anthony O Ahmed
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medical College, White Plains, New York, USA
| | - Anilkumar Pillai
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, Augusta University, Augusta, GA
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145
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Mazarati AM, Lewis ML, Pittman QJ. Neurobehavioral comorbidities of epilepsy: Role of inflammation. Epilepsia 2017; 58 Suppl 3:48-56. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.13786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrey M. Mazarati
- Neurology Division; Department of Pediatrics; David Geffen School of Medicine; University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles California U.S.A
| | - Megan L. Lewis
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology; Hotchkiss Brain Institute; University of Calgary; Calgary Alberta Canada
| | - Quentin J. Pittman
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology; Hotchkiss Brain Institute; University of Calgary; Calgary Alberta Canada
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146
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Loss of CDKL5 in Glutamatergic Neurons Disrupts Hippocampal Microcircuitry and Leads to Memory Impairment in Mice. J Neurosci 2017; 37:7420-7437. [PMID: 28674172 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0539-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2017] [Revised: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) deficiency is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by epileptic seizures, severe intellectual disability, and autistic features. Mice lacking CDKL5 display multiple behavioral abnormalities reminiscent of the disorder, but the cellular origins of these phenotypes remain unclear. Here, we find that ablating CDKL5 expression specifically from forebrain glutamatergic neurons impairs hippocampal-dependent memory in male conditional knock-out mice. Hippocampal pyramidal neurons lacking CDKL5 show decreased dendritic complexity but a trend toward increased spine density. This morphological change is accompanied by an increase in the frequency of spontaneous miniature EPSCs and interestingly, miniature IPSCs. Using voltage-sensitive dye imaging to interrogate the evoked response of the CA1 microcircuit, we find that CA1 pyramidal neurons lacking CDKL5 show hyperexcitability in their dendritic domain that is constrained by elevated inhibition in a spatially and temporally distinct manner. These results suggest a novel role for CDKL5 in the regulation of synaptic function and uncover an intriguing microcircuit mechanism underlying impaired learning and memory.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) deficiency is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the CDKL5 gene. Although Cdkl5 constitutive knock-out mice have recapitulated key aspects of human symptomatology, the cellular origins of CDKL5 deficiency-related phenotypes are unknown. Here, using conditional knock-out mice, we show that hippocampal-dependent learning and memory deficits in CDKL5 deficiency have origins in glutamatergic neurons of the forebrain and that loss of CDKL5 results in the enhancement of synaptic transmission and disruptions in neural circuit dynamics in a spatially and temporally specific manner. Our findings demonstrate that CDKL5 is an important regulator of synaptic function in glutamatergic neurons and serves a critical role in learning and memory.
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147
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Pin1 Modulates the Synaptic Content of NMDA Receptors via Prolyl-Isomerization of PSD-95. J Neurosci 2017; 36:5437-47. [PMID: 27194325 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3124-15.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Phosphorylation of serine/threonine residues preceding a proline regulates the fate of its targets through postphosphorylation conformational changes catalyzed by the peptidyl-prolyl cis-/trans isomerase Pin1. By flipping the substrate between two different functional conformations, this enzyme exerts a fine-tuning of phosphorylation signals. Pin1 has been detected in dendritic spines and shafts where it regulates protein synthesis required to sustain the late phase of long-term potentiation (LTP). Here, we demonstrate that Pin1 residing in postsynaptic structures can interact with postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95), a key scaffold protein that anchors NMDA receptors (NMDARs) in PSD via GluN2-type receptor subunits. Pin1 recruitment by PSD-95 occurs at specific serine-threonine/proline consensus motifs localized in the linker region connecting PDZ2 to PDZ3 domains. Upon binding, Pin1 triggers structural changes in PSD-95, thus negatively affecting its ability to interact with NMDARs. In electrophysiological experiments, larger NMDA-mediated synaptic currents, evoked in CA1 principal cells by Schaffer collateral stimulation, were detected in hippocampal slices obtained from Pin1(-/-) mice compared with controls. Similar results were obtained in cultured hippocampal cells expressing a PSD-95 mutant unable to undergo prolyl-isomerization, thus indicating that the action of Pin1 on PSD-95 is critical for this effect. In addition, an enhancement in spine density and size was detected in CA1 principal cells of Pin1(-/-) or in Thy-1GFP mice treated with the pharmacological inhibitor of Pin1 catalytic activity PiB.Our data indicate that Pin1 controls synaptic content of NMDARs via PSD-95 prolyl-isomerization and the expression of dendritic spines, both required for LTP maintenance. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT PSD-95, a membrane-associated guanylate kinase, is the major scaffolding protein at excitatory postsynaptic densities and a potent regulator of synaptic strength and plasticity. The activity of PSD-95 is tightly controlled by several post-translational mechanisms including proline-directed phosphorylation. This signaling cascade regulates the fate of its targets through postphosphorylation conformational modifications catalyzed by the peptidyl-prolyl cis-/trans isomerase Pin1. Here, we uncover a new role of Pin1 in glutamatergic signaling. By interacting with PSD-95, Pin1 dampens PSD-95 ability to complex with NMDARs, thus negatively affecting NMDAR signaling and spine morphology. Our findings further emphasize the emerging role of Pin1 as a key modulator of synaptic transmission.
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148
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Schroeder JC, Reim D, Boeckers TM, Schmeisser MJ. Genetic Animal Models for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2017; 30:311-324. [PMID: 26602248 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2015_407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects approximately 1 % of the human population and has a strong genetic component. Hence, the recent discovery of major "ASD genes" has subsequently resulted in the generation of several genetic animal models of ASD. Careful analysis of behavioral phenotypes and characterization of the underlying neurobiological mechanisms in these models should further help us to identify novel therapeutic targets and develop more effective strategies in the future to ameliorate or even reverse core symptoms and comorbidities of ASD. In this review, we will focus on the mutant mouse as animal model and outline how to characterize both behavioral and neurobiological phenotypes in this organism. We will further discuss a selection of major ASD mutant mouse lines. Our conclusions will finally address the current goals and perspectives in the field to obtain a more comprehensive and possibly also converging picture of ASD pathogenesis, which could be most useful for the desired bench-to-bedside strategy of translational medicine for this complex disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan C Schroeder
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Dominik Reim
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Tobias M Boeckers
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Michael J Schmeisser
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany.
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany.
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149
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Unique versus Redundant Functions of Neuroligin Genes in Shaping Excitatory and Inhibitory Synapse Properties. J Neurosci 2017; 37:6816-6836. [PMID: 28607166 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0125-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2017] [Revised: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroligins are evolutionarily conserved postsynaptic cell adhesion molecules that interact with presynaptic neurexins. Neurons express multiple neuroligin isoforms that are targeted to specific synapses, but their synaptic functions and mechanistic redundancy are not completely understood. Overexpression or RNAi-mediated knockdown of neuroligins, respectively, causes a dramatic increase or decrease in synapse density, whereas genetic deletions of neuroligins impair synapse function with only minor effects on synapse numbers, raising fundamental questions about the overall physiological role of neuroligins. Here, we have systematically analyzed the effects of conditional genetic deletions of all major neuroligin isoforms (i.e., NL1, NL2, and NL3), either individually or in combinations, in cultured mouse hippocampal and cortical neurons. We found that conditional genetic deletions of neuroligins caused no change or only a small change in synapses numbers, but strongly impaired synapse function. This impairment was isoform specific, suggesting that neuroligins are not functionally redundant. Sparse neuroligin deletions produced phenotypes comparable to those of global deletions, indicating that neuroligins function in a cell-autonomous manner. Mechanistically, neuroligin deletions decreased the synaptic levels of neurotransmitter receptors and had no effect on presynaptic release probabilities. Overexpression of neuroligin-1 in control or neuroligin-deficient neurons increased synaptic transmission and synapse density but not spine numbers, suggesting that these effects reflect a gain-of-function mechanism; whereas overexpression of neuroligin-3, which, like neuroligin-1 is also targeted to excitatory synapses, had no comparable effect. Our data demonstrate that neuroligins are required for the physiological organization of neurotransmitter receptors in postsynaptic specializations and suggest that they do not play a major role in synapse formation.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Human neuroligin genes have been associated with autism, but the cellular functions of different neuroligins and their molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Here, we performed comparative analyses in cultured mouse neurons of all major neuroligin isoforms, either individually or in combinations, using conditional knockouts. We found that neuroligin deletions did not affect synapse numbers but differentially impaired excitatory or inhibitory synaptic functions in an isoform-specific manner. These impairments were due, at least in part, to a decrease in synaptic distribution of neurotransmitter receptors upon deletion of neuroligins. Conversely, the overexpression of neuroligin-1 increased synapse numbers but not spine numbers. Our results suggest that various neuroligin isoforms perform unique postsynaptic functions in organizing synapses but are not essential for synapse formation or maintenance.
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150
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Sakurai T. The role of cell adhesion molecules in brain wiring and neuropsychiatric disorders. Mol Cell Neurosci 2017; 81:4-11. [PMID: 27561442 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2016.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Revised: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) in the nervous system have long been a research focus, but many mice lacking CAMs show very subtle phenotypes, giving an impression that CAMs may not be major players in constructing the nervous system. However, recent human genetic studies suggest CAM involvement in many neuropsychiatric disorders, implicating that they must have significant functions in nervous system development, namely in circuitry formation. As CAMs can provide specificity through their molecular interactions, this review summarizes possible mechanisms on how alterations of CAMs can result in neuropsychiatric disorders through circuitry modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Sakurai
- Medical Innovation Center, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 53 Shogoin Kawaharacho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
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