101
|
Fujii Y, Maekawa S, Morita M. Astrocyte calcium waves propagate proximally by gap junction and distally by extracellular diffusion of ATP released from volume-regulated anion channels. Sci Rep 2017; 7:13115. [PMID: 29030562 PMCID: PMC5640625 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-13243-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Wave-like propagation of [Ca2+]i increases is a remarkable intercellular communication characteristic in astrocyte networks, intercalating neural circuits and vasculature. Mechanically-induced [Ca2+]i increases and their subsequent propagation to neighboring astrocytes in culture is a classical model of astrocyte calcium wave and is known to be mediated by gap junction and extracellular ATP, but the role of each pathway remains unclear. Pharmacologic analysis of time-dependent distribution of [Ca2+]i revealed three distinct [Ca2+]i increases, the largest being in stimulated cells independent of extracellular Ca2+ and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-induced Ca2+ release. In addition, persistent [Ca2+]i increases were found to propagate rapidly via gap junctions in the proximal region, and transient [Ca2+]i increases were found to propagate slowly via extracellular ATP in the distal region. Simultaneous imaging of astrocyte [Ca2+]i and extracellular ATP, the latter of which was measured by an ATP sniffing cell, revealed that ATP was released within the proximal region by volume-regulated anion channel in a [Ca2+]i independent manner. This detailed analysis of a classical model is the first to address the different contributions of two major pathways of calcium waves, gap junctions and extracellular ATP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Fujii
- Kobe University Graduate School of Science, Department of Biology, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan
| | - Shohei Maekawa
- Kobe University Graduate School of Science, Department of Biology, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiro Morita
- Kobe University Graduate School of Science, Department of Biology, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
102
|
Dong H, Zhou XW, Wang X, Yang Y, Luo JW, Liu YH, Mao Q. Complex role of connexin 43 in astrocytic tumors and possible promotion of glioma‑associated epileptic discharge (Review). Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:7890-7900. [PMID: 28983585 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.7618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexin (Cx)43 is a multifunction protein which forms gap junction channels and hemi‑channels. It also contains abundant binding domains which possess the ability to interact with certain Cx43‑associated proteins and therefore serve a fundamental role in various physiological and pathological functions. However, the understanding of the association between cancer and Cx43 along with Cx43‑gap junctions (GJ) remains unclear. All available data illustrate that Cx43 and its associated GJ serve important functions in cancers. The expression levels of Cx43 demonstrate a downward trend and an increase in the levels of malignancy, particularly in astrocytomas. The GJ intercellular communication activity in glioma cells can be adjusted via Cx43 phosphorylation and through the combination of Cx43 and its associated protein. Available evidence reveals Cx43 as a tumor‑inhibiting factor that suppresses glioma growth and proliferation. However, its mechanism is also regarded as complicated and ambiguous. Furthermore, it is apparent that Cx43‑GJ and the carboxyl tail may contribute to glioma growth and proliferation too. However, this valuable role could be weakened by its effects on migration and invasiveness. The detailed mechanism remains unclear and full of controversies. Cx43 can enhance the motor ability and invasiveness of astrocytic glioma cells. It is also able to influence glioma cells to detach from the tumor core to the peritumoral neocortex. This peritumoral region has recently been regarded as the basic focus of glioma‑associated seizure. Thus, Cx43 may take part in the onset and development of glioma‑associated epileptic discharge. In addition, change and increase of Cx43 expression in GJs has been observed in seizure perilesional tissue, which is associated with brain tumors. Cx43 or GJ/hemi‑channels exert enduring effects in the promotion of glioma‑associated epileptic release through direct mass effects and change of the tumor microenvironment. However, there are still a number of issues concerning this aspect that require further exploration. Cx43, as a potential treatment target against this incurable disease and its common symptom of epilepsy, requires further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Dong
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Xing-Wang Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Jie-Wen Luo
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yan-Hui Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Qing Mao
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
103
|
Pierozan P, Biasibetti-Brendler H, Schmitz F, Ferreira F, Pessoa-Pureur R, Wyse ATS. Kynurenic Acid Prevents Cytoskeletal Disorganization Induced by Quinolinic Acid in Mixed Cultures of Rat Striatum. Mol Neurobiol 2017; 55:5111-5124. [PMID: 28840509 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0749-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is a neuroactive metabolite of tryptophan known to modulate a number of mechanisms involved in neural dysfunction. Although its activity in the brain has been widely studied, the effect of KYNA counteracting the actions of quinolinic acid (QUIN) remains unknown. The present study aims at describing the ability of 100 μM KYNA preventing cytoskeletal disruption provoked by QUIN in astrocyte/neuron/microglia mixed culture. KYNA totally preserved cytoskeletal organization, cell morphology, and redox imbalance in mixed cultures exposed to QUIN. However, KYNA partially prevented morphological alteration in isolated primary astrocytes and failed to protect the morphological alterations of neurons caused by QUIN exposure. Moreover, KYNA prevented QUIN-induced microglial activation and upregulation of ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (Iba-1) and partially preserved tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) level in mixed cultures. TNF-α level was also partially preserved in astrocytes. In addition to the mechanisms dependent on redox imbalance and microglial activation, KYNA prevented downregulation of connexin-43 and the loss of functionality of gap junctions (GJs), preserving cell-cell contact, cytoskeletal organization, and cell morphology in QUIN-treated cells. Furthermore, the toxicity of QUIN targeting the cytoskeleton of mixed cultures was not prevented by the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonist MK-801. We suggest that KYNA protects the integrity of the cytoskeleton of mixed cultures by complex mechanisms including modulating microglial activation preventing oxidative imbalance and misregulated GJs leading to disrupted cytoskeleton in QUIN-treated cells. This study contributed to elucidate the molecular basis of KYNA protection against QUIN toxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula Pierozan
- Laboratório de Neuroproteção e DoençasMetabólicas, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, CEP, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil.
| | - Helena Biasibetti-Brendler
- Laboratório de Neuroproteção e DoençasMetabólicas, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Felipe Schmitz
- Laboratório de Neuroproteção e DoençasMetabólicas, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Ferreira
- Laboratório de Neuroproteção e DoençasMetabólicas, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Regina Pessoa-Pureur
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, CEP, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
- Laboratório de Citoesqueleto, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Angela T S Wyse
- Laboratório de Neuroproteção e DoençasMetabólicas, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, CEP, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
104
|
Abstract
Rapid advances in Ca2+ imaging techniques enable us to simultaneously monitor the activities of hundreds of astrocytes in the intact brain, thus providing a powerful tool for understanding the functions of both host and engrafted astrocytes in sensory processing in vivo. These techniques include both improved Ca2+ indicators and advanced optical recording methods. Astrocytes in multiple cortical and sub-cortical areas are able to respond to the corresponding sensory modalities. These sensory stimuli produce astrocytic Ca2+ responses through different cellular mechanisms. In addition, it has been suggested that astrocytic gene deficiencies in various sensory systems cause impairments in sensory circuits and cognition. Therefore, glial transplantation would be a potentially interesting approach for the cell-based therapy for glia-related disorders. There are multiple cell sources for glial transplantation, including neural stem cells, glial progenitors, and pluripotent stem cells. Both in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that engrafted astrocytes derived from these cell sources are capable of responding to sensory stimulation by elevating the intracellular Ca2+ concentration. These results indicate that engrafted astrocytes not only morphologically but also functionally integrate into the host neural network. Until now, many animal studies have proven that glial transplantation would be a good choice for treating multiple glial disorders. Together, these studies on the sensory responses of host and engrafted astrocytes have provided us a novel perspective in both neuron-glia circuit functions and future treatment strategies for glial disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuan Zhang
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaowei Chen
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.,CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
105
|
FGF-1 Triggers Pannexin-1 Hemichannel Opening in Spinal Astrocytes of Rodents and Promotes Inflammatory Responses in Acute Spinal Cord Slices. J Neurosci 2017; 36:4785-801. [PMID: 27122036 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.4195-15.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED We show here that the growth factor FGF-1 is proinflammatory in the spinal cord and explore the inflammatory mechanisms. FGF-1 applied to rat spinal astrocytes in culture initiates calcium signaling and induces secretion of ATP that within minutes increases membrane permeability to ethidium (Etd(+)) and Ca(2+) by activating P2X7 receptors (P2X7Rs) that open pannexin hemichannels (Px1 HCs) that release further ATP; by 7 h treatment, connexin 43 hemichannels (Cx43 HCs) are also opened. In acute mouse spinal cord slices ex vivo, we found that FGF-1 treatment for 1 h increases the percentage of GFAP-positive astrocytes that show enhanced Px1 HC-mediated Etd(+) uptake. This response to FGF-1 was not observed in astrocytes in slices of cerebral cortex. FGF-1-induced dye uptake by astrocytes is prevented by BAPTA-AM or a phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor. Furthermore, in spinal cord slices, P2X7R antagonists (BBG and A740003) and Px1 HC blockers ((10)Panx1 and carbenoxolone) prevent the increase in Etd(+) uptake by astrocytes, whereas Gap19, a selective Cx43 HC blocker, has no effect on dye uptake at this time. Microglia are not required for the increase in Etd(+) uptake by astrocytes induced by FGF-1, although they are activated by FGF-1 treatment. The morphological signs of microglia activation are inhibited by P2X7R antagonists and (10)Panx1 and are associated with elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines in cord slices treated with FGF-1. The FGF-1 initiated cascade may play an important role in spinal cord inflammation in vivo SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT We find that FGF-1 elevates [Ca(2+)]i in spinal astrocytes, which causes vesicular release of ATP and activation of P2X7Rs to trigger opening of Px1 HCs, which release further ATP. This regenerative response occurs in astrocyte cultures and in acute spinal cord slices. In the latter, FGF-1 application promotes the activation of microglia and increases the production of proinflammatory cytokines through mechanisms depending on P2X7 receptors and Px1 HCs. This proinflammatory microenvironment may favor recruitment of leukocytes into the spinal cord and impacts negatively on neuronal structure and function in vivo Any step in these processes provides a potential therapeutic target for treatment of secondary damage in various spinal cord pathologies.
Collapse
|
106
|
Huguet G, Joglekar A, Messi LM, Buckalew R, Wong S, Terman D. Neuroprotective Role of Gap Junctions in a Neuron Astrocyte Network Model. Biophys J 2017; 111:452-462. [PMID: 27463146 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2016.05.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Revised: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
A detailed biophysical model for a neuron/astrocyte network is developed to explore mechanisms responsible for the initiation and propagation of cortical spreading depolarizations and the role of astrocytes in maintaining ion homeostasis, thereby preventing these pathological waves. Simulations of the model illustrate how properties of spreading depolarizations, such as wave speed and duration of depolarization, depend on several factors, including the neuron and astrocyte Na(+)-K(+) ATPase pump strengths. In particular, we consider the neuroprotective role of astrocyte gap junction coupling. The model demonstrates that a syncytium of electrically coupled astrocytes can maintain a physiological membrane potential in the presence of an elevated extracellular K(+) concentration and efficiently distribute the excess K(+) across the syncytium. This provides an effective neuroprotective mechanism for delaying or preventing the initiation of spreading depolarizations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Huguet
- Department de Matematiques, Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Richard Buckalew
- Mathematical Bioscience Institute, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Sarah Wong
- Department of Mathematics, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - David Terman
- Department of Mathematics, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.
| |
Collapse
|
107
|
Eom K, Hwang S, Yun S, Byun KM, Jun SB, Kim SJ. Photothermal activation of astrocyte cells using localized surface plasmon resonance of gold nanorods. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2017; 10:486-493. [PMID: 28164459 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.201600280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Revised: 12/30/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Although it has been revealed that astrocytes, generally known as star-shaped glial cells, play critical roles in the functions of central nervous system, there have been few efforts to directly modulate their activities and responses. In this study, an optical stimulation strategy for producing intracellular Ca2+ transients of astrocytes is demonstrated using near-infrared (NIR) light and localized surface plasmon resonance. It is presented that NIR stimulation of micro-second duration combined with gold nanorods (GNRs) efficiently produces stronger Ca2+ transients of astrocytes, which seems to be associated with a local heat generation by photothermal effects of GNRs. Since the proposed scheme can directly activate astrocytes with a high reliability, it is expected that GNR-mediated NIR stimulation could be utilized to facilitate minimally invasive physiological studies on the astrocyte functions. Photos of intracellular Ca2+ transient of astrocytes with membrane-bound GNRs after optical stimulation at 30 s.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyungsik Eom
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Seoyoung Hwang
- Department of Electronics Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, South Korea
| | - Seunghyeon Yun
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Kyung Min Byun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, 17104, South Korea
| | - Sang Beom Jun
- Department of Electronics Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, South Korea
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, South Korea
| | - Sung June Kim
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
108
|
SOX9 Is an Astrocyte-Specific Nuclear Marker in the Adult Brain Outside the Neurogenic Regions. J Neurosci 2017; 37:4493-4507. [PMID: 28336567 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3199-16.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 203] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2016] [Revised: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 02/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes have in recent years become the focus of intense experimental interest, yet markers for their definitive identification remain both scarce and imperfect. Astrocytes may be recognized as such by their expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein, glutamine synthetase, glutamate transporter 1 (GLT1), aquaporin-4, aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 family member L1, and other proteins. However, these proteins may all be regulated both developmentally and functionally, restricting their utility. To identify a nuclear marker pathognomonic of astrocytic phenotype, we assessed differential RNA expression by FACS-purified adult astrocytes and, on that basis, evaluated the expression of the transcription factor SOX9 in both mouse and human brain. We found that SOX9 is almost exclusively expressed by astrocytes in the adult brain except for ependymal cells and in the neurogenic regions, where SOX9 is also expressed by neural progenitor cells. Transcriptome comparisons of SOX9+ cells with GLT1+ cells showed that the two populations of cells exhibit largely overlapping gene expression. Expression of SOX9 did not decrease during aging and was instead upregulated by reactive astrocytes in a number of settings, including a murine model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (SOD1G93A), middle cerebral artery occlusion, and multiple mini-strokes. We quantified the relative number of astrocytes using the isotropic fractionator technique in combination with SOX9 immunolabeling. The analysis showed that SOX9+ astrocytes constitute ∼10-20% of the total cell number in most CNS regions, a smaller fraction of total cell number than previously estimated in the normal adult brain.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Astrocytes are traditionally identified immunohistochemically by antibodies that target cell-specific antigens in the cytosol or plasma membrane. We show here that SOX9 is an astrocyte-specific nuclear marker in all major areas of the CNS outside of the neurogenic regions. Based on SOX9 immunolabeling, we document that astrocytes constitute a smaller fraction of total cell number than previously estimated in the normal adult mouse brain.
Collapse
|
109
|
Wang Q, Jie W, Liu JH, Yang JM, Gao TM. An astroglial basis of major depressive disorder? An overview. Glia 2017; 65:1227-1250. [DOI: 10.1002/glia.23143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Revised: 02/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders of Guangdong Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Department of Neurobiology, Southern Medical University; Guangzhou 510515 China
| | - Wei Jie
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders of Guangdong Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Department of Neurobiology, Southern Medical University; Guangzhou 510515 China
| | - Ji-Hong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders of Guangdong Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Department of Neurobiology, Southern Medical University; Guangzhou 510515 China
| | - Jian-Ming Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders of Guangdong Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Department of Neurobiology, Southern Medical University; Guangzhou 510515 China
| | - Tian-Ming Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders of Guangdong Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Department of Neurobiology, Southern Medical University; Guangzhou 510515 China
| |
Collapse
|
110
|
Astrocyte Ca 2+ Influx Negatively Regulates Neuronal Activity. eNeuro 2017; 4:eN-NWR-0340-16. [PMID: 28303263 PMCID: PMC5348542 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0340-16.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Revised: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Maintenance of neural circuit activity requires appropriate regulation of excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission. Recently, glia have emerged as key partners in the modulation of neuronal excitability; however, the mechanisms by which glia regulate neuronal signaling are still being elucidated. Here, we describe an analysis of how Ca2+ signals within Drosophila astrocyte-like glia regulate excitability in the nervous system. We find that Drosophila astrocytes exhibit robust Ca2+ oscillatory activity manifested by fast, recurrent microdomain Ca2+ fluctuations within processes that infiltrate the synaptic neuropil. Unlike the enhanced neuronal activity and behavioral seizures that were previously observed during manipulations that trigger Ca2+ influx into Drosophila cortex glia, we find that acute induction of astrocyte Ca2+ influx leads to a rapid onset of behavioral paralysis and a suppression of neuronal activity. We observe that Ca2+ influx triggers rapid endocytosis of the GABA transporter (GAT) from astrocyte plasma membranes, suggesting that increased synaptic GABA levels contribute to the neuronal silencing and paralysis. We identify Rab11 as a novel regulator of GAT trafficking that is required for this form of activity regulation. Suppression of Rab11 function strongly offsets the reduction of neuronal activity caused by acute astrocyte Ca2+ influx, likely by inhibiting GAT endocytosis. Our data provide new insights into astrocyte Ca2+ signaling and indicate that distinct glial subtypes in the Drosophila brain can mediate opposing effects on neuronal excitability.
Collapse
|
111
|
Bohmbach K, Schwarz MK, Schoch S, Henneberger C. The structural and functional evidence for vesicular release from astrocytes in situ. Brain Res Bull 2017; 136:65-75. [PMID: 28122264 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2017.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Revised: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The concept of the tripartite synapse states that bi-directional signalling between perisynaptic astrocyte processes, presynaptic axonal boutons and postsynaptic neuronal structures defines the properties of synaptic information processing. Ca2+-dependent vesicular release from astrocytes, as one of the mechanisms of astrocyte-neuron communication, has attracted particular attention but has also been the subject of intense debate. In neurons, regulated vesicular release is a strongly coordinated process. It requires a complex release machinery comprised of many individual components ranging from vesicular neurotransmitter transporters and soluble NSF attachment protein receptors (SNARE) proteins to Ca2+-sensors and the proteins that spatially and temporally control exocytosis of synaptic vesicles. If astrocytes employ similar mechanisms to release neurotransmitters is less well understood. The aim of this review is therefore to discuss recent experimental evidence that sheds light on the central structural components responsible for vesicular release from astrocytes in situ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Bohmbach
- Institute of Cellular Neurosciences, University of Bonn Medical School, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Martin K Schwarz
- Department of Epileptology, University of Bonn Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Susanne Schoch
- Institute of Neuropathology, University of Bonn Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christian Henneberger
- Institute of Cellular Neurosciences, University of Bonn Medical School, Bonn, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany; Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
112
|
Mony TJ, Lee JW, Dreyfus C, DiCicco-Bloom E, Lee HJ. Valproic Acid Exposure during Early Postnatal Gliogenesis Leads to Autistic-like Behaviors in Rats. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE 2016; 14:338-344. [PMID: 27776385 PMCID: PMC5083944 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2016.14.4.338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Revised: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 05/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Objective We reported that postnatal exposure of rats to valproic acid (VPA) stimulated proliferation of glial precursors during cortical gliogenesis. However, there are no reports whether enhanced postnatal gliogenesis affects behaviors related to neuropsychiatric disorders. Methods After VPA treatment during the postnatal day (PND) 2 to PND 4, four behavioral test, such as open field locomotor test, elevated plus maze test, three-chamber social interaction test, and passive avoidance test, were performed at PND 21 or 22. Results VPA treated rats showed significant hyperactive behavior in the open field locomotor test (p<0.05). Moreover, the velocity of movement in the VPA group was increased by 69.5% (p<0.01). In the elevated plus maze test, VPA exposed rats expressed significantly lower percentage of time spent on and of entries into open arms more than the control group (p<0.05). Also, both sociability and social preference indices with strangers in the three-chamber social interaction test were significantly lower in the VPA exposed rats (p<0.05). Conclusion Our results suggest that altered glial cell development is another locus at which pathogenetic factors can operate to contribute to the neurodevelopmental disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamanna Jahan Mony
- Department of Pharmacology, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Jae Won Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea.,Natural Medicine Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Cheongju, Korea
| | - Cheryl Dreyfus
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Emanuel DiCicco-Bloom
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Hee Jae Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
113
|
Contini D, Price SD, Art JJ. Accumulation of K + in the synaptic cleft modulates activity by influencing both vestibular hair cell and calyx afferent in the turtle. J Physiol 2016; 595:777-803. [PMID: 27633787 DOI: 10.1113/jp273060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS In the synaptic cleft between type I hair cells and calyceal afferents, K+ ions accumulate as a function of activity, dynamically altering the driving force and permeation through ion channels facing the synaptic cleft. High-fidelity synaptic transmission is possible due to large conductances that minimize hair cell and afferent time constants in the presence of significant membrane capacitance. Elevated potassium maintains hair cells near a potential where transduction currents are sufficient to depolarize them to voltages necessary for calcium influx and synaptic vesicle fusion. Elevated potassium depolarizes the postsynaptic afferent by altering ion permeation through hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels, and contributes to depolarizing the afferent to potentials where a single EPSP (quantum) can generate an action potential. With increased stimulation, hair cell depolarization increases the frequency of quanta released, elevates [K+ ]cleft and depolarizes the afferent to potentials at which smaller and smaller EPSPs would be sufficient to trigger APs. ABSTRACT Fast neurotransmitters act in conjunction with slower modulatory effectors that accumulate in restricted synaptic spaces found at giant synapses such as the calyceal endings in the auditory and vestibular systems. Here, we used dual patch-clamp recordings from turtle vestibular hair cells and their afferent neurons to show that potassium ions accumulating in the synaptic cleft modulated membrane potentials and extended the range of information transfer. High-fidelity synaptic transmission was possible due to large conductances that minimized hair cell and afferent time constants in the presence of significant membrane capacitance. Increased potassium concentration in the cleft maintained the hair cell near potentials that promoted the influx of calcium necessary for synaptic vesicle fusion. The elevated potassium concentration also depolarized the postsynaptic neuron by altering ion permeation through hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels. This depolarization enabled the afferent to reliably generate action potentials evoked by single AMPA-dependent EPSPs. Depolarization of the postsynaptic afferent could also elevate potassium in the synaptic cleft, and would depolarize other hair cells enveloped by the same neuritic process increasing the fidelity of neurotransmission at those synapses as well. Collectively, these data demonstrate that neuronal activity gives rise to potassium accumulation, and suggest that potassium ion action on HCN channels can modulate neurotransmission, preserving the fidelity of high-speed synaptic transmission by dynamically shifting the resting potentials of both presynaptic and postsynaptic cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Contini
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Steven D Price
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Jonathan J Art
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| |
Collapse
|
114
|
Meng L, Zhang A, Jin Y, Yan D. Regulation of neuronal axon specification by glia-neuron gap junctions in C. elegans. eLife 2016; 5. [PMID: 27767956 PMCID: PMC5083064 DOI: 10.7554/elife.19510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Axon specification is a critical step in neuronal development, and the function of glial cells in this process is not fully understood. Here, we show that C. elegans GLR glial cells regulate axon specification of their nearby GABAergic RME neurons through GLR-RME gap junctions. Disruption of GLR-RME gap junctions causes misaccumulation of axonal markers in non-axonal neurites of RME neurons and converts microtubules in those neurites to form an axon-like assembly. We further uncover that GLR-RME gap junctions regulate RME axon specification through activation of the CDK-5 pathway in a calcium-dependent manner, involving a calpain clp-4. Therefore, our study reveals the function of glia-neuron gap junctions in neuronal axon specification and shows that calcium originated from glial cells can regulate neuronal intracellular pathways through gap junctions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lingfeng Meng
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, United States.,Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, United States.,Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, Duke Medical Center, Durham, United States
| | - Albert Zhang
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, United States.,Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, United States.,Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, Duke Medical Center, Durham, United States
| | - Yishi Jin
- Neurobiology Section, Division of Biological Sciences, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, San Diego, United States.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, United States
| | - Dong Yan
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, United States.,Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, United States.,Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, Duke Medical Center, Durham, United States
| |
Collapse
|
115
|
Jurič DM, Kržan M, Lipnik-Stangelj M. Histamine and astrocyte function. Pharmacol Res 2016; 111:774-783. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2016.07.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Revised: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
|
116
|
Adermark L, Bowers MS. Disentangling the Role of Astrocytes in Alcohol Use Disorder. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2016; 40:1802-16. [PMID: 27476876 PMCID: PMC5407469 DOI: 10.1111/acer.13168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Several laboratories recently identified that astrocytes are critical regulators of addiction machinery. It is now known that astrocyte pathology is a common feature of ethanol (EtOH) exposure in both humans and animal models, as even brief EtOH exposure is sufficient to elicit long-lasting perturbations in astrocyte gene expression, activity, and proliferation. Astrocytes were also recently shown to modulate the motivational properties of EtOH and other strongly reinforcing stimuli. Given the role of astrocytes in regulating glutamate homeostasis, a crucial component of alcohol use disorder (AUD), astrocytes might be an important target for the development of next-generation alcoholism treatments. This review will outline some of the more prominent features displayed by astrocytes, how these properties are influenced by acute and long-term EtOH exposure, and future directions that may help to disentangle astrocytic from neuronal functions in the etiology of AUD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louise Adermark
- Addiction Biology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 410, SE-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - M. Scott Bowers
- Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, PO Box 980126, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, PO Box 980126, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Faulk Center for Molecular Therapeutics, Northwestern University; Aptinyx,, Evanston, Il 60201, USA
| |
Collapse
|
117
|
Glia plasma membrane transporters: Key players in glutamatergic neurotransmission. Neurochem Int 2016; 98:46-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2016.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Revised: 03/07/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
|
118
|
Orellana JA, Retamal MA, Moraga-Amaro R, Stehberg J. Role of Astroglial Hemichannels and Pannexons in Memory and Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Integr Neurosci 2016; 10:26. [PMID: 27489539 PMCID: PMC4951483 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2016.00026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Under physiological conditions, astroglial hemichannels and pannexons allow the release of gliotransmitters from astrocytes. These gliotransmitters are critical in modulating synaptic transmission, plasticity and memory. However, recent evidence suggests that under pathological conditions, they may be central in the development of various neurodegenerative diseases. Here we review current literature on the role of astroglial hemichannels and pannexons in memory, stress and the development of neurodegenerative diseases, and propose that they are not only crucial for normal brain function, including memory, but also a potential target for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan A Orellana
- Departamento de Neurología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Mauricio A Retamal
- Centro de Fisiología Celular e Integrativa, Facultad de Medicina, Clínica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo Santiago, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Moraga-Amaro
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Andres Bello Santiago, Chile
| | - Jimmy Stehberg
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Andres Bello Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
119
|
Abstract
One of the features that distinguishes glial cells from most other brain cells is their ability to communicate with each other through cytoplasmic connections established by gap- junctions. Gap-junctions are cell-cell channels composed of two connexons, one con tributed by each communicating cell. These connexons are formed by six connexin mol ecules that assemble in a hexagonal array to form a central pore. As is common for channel proteins, connexins comprise a superfamily of at least 12 members, with molecular weights ranging from 26 to 50 kDa and overall sequence identities of 50%. In the brain, only two connexins are expressed to a significant degree. These are connexin 43 (Cx43), which is the predominant molecular unit of astrocytic gap-junctions, and connexin 32 (Cx32), which forms the gap-junctions in oligodendrocytes and some neurons. The pore formed by these connexins is permeant to ions and small hydrophilic molecules with molecular weights <1 kDa. Molecules believed to be trafficking through gap-junctions include metabolites and second messengers, but hydrophobic molecules and most pro teins are excluded. It is believed that large numbers of glial cells, and particularly astro cytes, participate in syncytia in which cells share a common cytoplasm. Gap-junctions are thought to integrate regional variances between cells and provide a diffusional pathway to facilitate the sequestration and redistribution of ions and neurotransmitters. Recent evidence suggests that astrocytic gap-junction may also allow the passage of cell-cell signals, permitting information to spread in the form of regenerative Ca2+ changes through a glial network. The Neuroscientist 1:188-191, 1995
Collapse
|
120
|
|
121
|
Abstract
Astrocytes are activated during both excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission and respond with intracellular Ca2+i elevations. Ca2+i oscillations and waves in astrocytes now appear to represent the glial arm of a dynamic neuronal-glial signaling process. Advances within the last year have shown that stimuli that elevate Ca2+i in astrocytes have the potential to modulate synaptic function. Recent studies have shown that astrocytic calcium waves, initially believed to depend on the integrity of functional gap junction channels for the passage of intercellular signals, are actually mediated by release of ATP and subsequent activation of purinergic receptors on neighboring cells. ATP release is in turn regulated by the expression of gap junction proteins, establishing a novel dimension between gap junctions and extracellular-mediated signaling events. The role of ATP and its breakdown product, adenosine, on synaptic transmission are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. L. Cotrina
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York
| | - M. Nedergaard
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York
| |
Collapse
|
122
|
Abstract
Since their discovery in the late nineteenth century, glial cells have taken a backstage role to neurons in our investigations of the nervous system. Yet, in the mammalian brain, glial cells outnumber neurons and comprise 50% of the brain volume. A number of proteins, including important synthetic enzymes, are located almost exclusively in glia, suggesting that glial cells may serve functions beyond providing structural support. Speculations of more active roles for glial cells in brain function began at the turn of the century, at which time it had been suggested that they serve nutritive functions (Golgi, 1885), insulate nerve fibers (Ramon y Cajal, 1909), phagocytose dying neurons (Marinesco, 1896), secrete fac tors (Achucarro, 1915), and remove neurotransmitters (the substances by which one nerve cell excites another) from the synaptic cleft (Lugaro, 1907). Many of these early hypotheses have subsequently gained experimental support; however, our understanding of glial roles in brain function is still limited. The Neuroscientist 1:123-126, 1995
Collapse
|
123
|
Abstract
Throughout the nervous system, neurons are closely surrounded by glial cells, leaving only a 20-nm wide extracellular space filled with interstitial fluid. Ions, transmitters, hormones, nutrients, and waste products all share this narrow diffusion pathway. Because the interstitial space occupies only a small volume, neuronal activity can lead to appreciable changes in the extracellular concentration of ions, protons, and neurotrans mitters. These changes can affect neuronal activity and are believed to be influenced by glial cells. The proximity of glial processes to synapses and axons make glial cells ideal partners to sequester ions and transmitters released by neurons. The failure of glial cells to perform such essential homeostatic functions can have profound effects, and these homeostatic activities may constitute one way in which glial cells can influence neuronal signaling. In addition, glial cells, which, unlike most neurons, are coupled to each other through gap-junctions, communicate with each other and possibly also with adjacent neurons through prop agated intracellular Ca2+waves. The importance of such interglial signaling is not understood. Additionally, glial cells and neurons mutually modulate their expression of ion channels, most likely through factors re leased into the extracellular space. The range of responses observed in glial cells and their intimate anatomical relationship with neurons suggest a broader role for glia than is currently appreciated. It also emphasizes the importance of a better understanding of glial-neuronal interactions to an understanding of brain function. The Neuroscientist 1:328-337, 1995
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harald Sontheimer
- Neurobiology Research Center and Department of Physiology and Biophysics The University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, Alabama
| |
Collapse
|
124
|
Chen Y, Holstein DM, Aime S, Bollo M, Lechleiter JD. Calcineurin β protects brain after injury by activating the unfolded protein response. Neurobiol Dis 2016; 94:139-56. [PMID: 27334877 PMCID: PMC4983525 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2016.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ca2+-dependent phosphatase, calcineurin (CN) is thought to play a detrimental role in damaged neurons; however, its role in astrocytes is unclear. In cultured astrocytes, CNβ expression increased after treatment with a sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase inhibitor, thapsigargin, and with oxygen and glucose deprivation, an in vitro model of ischemia. Similarly, CNβ was induced in astrocytes in vivo in two different mouse models of brain injury - photothrombotic stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Immunoprecipitation and chemical activation dimerization methods pointed to physical interaction of CNβ with the unfolded protein response (UPR) sensor, protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK). In accordance, induction of CNβ resulted in oligomerization and activation of PERK. Strikingly, the presence of a phosphatase inhibitor did not interfere with CNβ-mediated activation of PERK, suggesting a hitherto undiscovered non-enzymatic role for CNβ. Importantly, the cytoprotective function of CNβ was PERK-dependent both in vitro and in vivo. Loss of CNβ in vivo resulted in a significant increase in cerebral damage, and correlated with a decrease in astrocyte size, PERK activity and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression. Taken together, these data reveal a critical role for the CNβ-PERK axis in not only prolonging astrocyte cell survival but also in modulating astrogliosis after brain injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Chen
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Deborah M Holstein
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Sofia Aime
- Instituto de Investigación Médica M y M Ferreyra, INIMEC-CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Mariana Bollo
- Instituto de Investigación Médica M y M Ferreyra, INIMEC-CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - James D Lechleiter
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, TX, USA; Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
125
|
Bazargani N, Attwell D. Astrocyte calcium signaling: the third wave. Nat Neurosci 2016; 19:182-9. [PMID: 26814587 DOI: 10.1038/nn.4201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 575] [Impact Index Per Article: 71.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2015] [Accepted: 11/10/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The discovery that transient elevations of calcium concentration occur in astrocytes, and release 'gliotransmitters' which act on neurons and vascular smooth muscle, led to the idea that astrocytes are powerful regulators of neuronal spiking, synaptic plasticity and brain blood flow. These findings were challenged by a second wave of reports that astrocyte calcium transients did not mediate functions attributed to gliotransmitters and were too slow to generate blood flow increases. Remarkably, the tide has now turned again: the most important calcium transients occur in fine astrocyte processes not resolved in earlier studies, and new mechanisms have been discovered by which astrocyte [Ca(2+)]i is raised and exerts its effects. Here we review how this third wave of discoveries has changed our understanding of astrocyte calcium signaling and its consequences for neuronal function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Narges Bazargani
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology &Pharmacology, University College London, London, UK
| | - David Attwell
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology &Pharmacology, University College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
126
|
Abstract
Many patients with lung cancer, breast cancer, and melanoma develop brain metastases that are resistant to conventional therapy. The median survival for untreated patients is 1 to 2 months, which may be extended to 6 months with surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. The outcome of metastasis depends on multiple interactions of unique metastatic cells with host homeostatic mechanisms which the tumor cells exploit for their survival and proliferation. The blood-brain barrier is leaky in metastases that are larger than 0.5-mm diameter because of production of vascular endothelial growth factor by metastatic cells. Brain metastases are surrounded and infiltrated by microglia and activated astrocytes. The interaction with astrocytes leads to up-regulation of multiple genes in the metastatic cells, including several survival genes that are responsible for the increased resistance of tumor cells to cytotoxic drugs. These findings substantiate the importance of the "seed and soil" hypothesis and that successful treatment of brain metastases must include targeting of the organ microenvironment.
Collapse
|
127
|
Parpura V, Sekler I, Fern R. Plasmalemmal and mitochondrial Na+-Ca2+exchange in neuroglia. Glia 2016; 64:1646-54. [DOI: 10.1002/glia.22975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Revised: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Parpura
- Department of Neurobiology; Center for Glial Biology in Medicine, Civitan International Research Center, Atomic Force Microscopy & Nanotechnology Laboratories, and Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham Alabama
| | - Israel Sekler
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Science; Ben-Gurion University; Ben-Guion Av 84105 POB 653
| | - Robert Fern
- Peninsular School of Medicine and Dentistry; University of Plymouth; Plymouth PL6 8BU United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
128
|
Nuriya M, Hirase H. Involvement of astrocytes in neurovascular communication. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2016; 225:41-62. [PMID: 27130410 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2016.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The vascular interface of the brain is distinct from that of the peripheral tissue in that astrocytes, the most numerous glial cell type in the gray matter, cover the vasculature with their endfeet. This morphological feature of the gliovascular junction has prompted neuroscientists to suggest possible functional roles of astrocytes including astrocytic modulation of the vasculature. Additionally, astrocytes develop an intricate morphology that intimately apposes neuronal synapses, making them an ideal cellular mediator of neurovascular coupling. In this article, we first introduce the classical anatomical and physiological findings that led to the proposal of various gliovascular interaction models. Next, we touch on the technological advances in the past few decades that enabled investigations and evaluations of neuro-glio-vascular interactions in situ. We then review recent experimental findings on the roles of astrocytes in neurovascular coupling from the viewpoints of intra- and intercellular signalings in astrocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Nuriya
- Keio University, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - H Hirase
- RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Wako, Saitama, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
129
|
Reciprocal Regulation of Mitochondrial Dynamics and Calcium Signaling in Astrocyte Processes. J Neurosci 2016; 35:15199-213. [PMID: 26558789 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2049-15.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED We recently showed that inhibition of neuronal activity, glutamate uptake, or reversed-Na(+)/Ca(2+)-exchange with TTX, TFB-TBOA, or YM-244769, respectively, increases mitochondrial mobility in astrocytic processes. In the present study, we examined the interrelationships between mitochondrial mobility and Ca(2+) signaling in astrocyte processes in organotypic cultures of rat hippocampus. All of the treatments that increase mitochondrial mobility decreased basal Ca(2+). As recently reported, we observed spontaneous Ca(2+) spikes with half-lives of ∼1 s that spread ∼6 μm and are almost abolished by a TRPA1 channel antagonist. Virtually all of these Ca(2+) spikes overlap mitochondria (98%), and 62% of mitochondria are overlapped by these spikes. Although tetrodotoxin, TFB-TBOA, or YM-244769 increased Ca(2+) signaling, the specific effects on peak, decay time, and/or frequency were different. To more specifically manipulate mitochondrial mobility, we explored the effects of Miro motor adaptor proteins. We show that Miro1 and Miro2 are both expressed in astrocytes and that exogenous expression of Ca(2+)-insensitive Miro mutants (KK) nearly doubles the percentage of mobile mitochondria. Expression of Miro1(KK) had a modest effect on the frequency of these Ca(2+) spikes but nearly doubled the decay half-life. The mitochondrial proton ionophore, FCCP, caused a large, prolonged increase in cytosolic Ca(2+) followed by an increase in the decay time and the spread of the spontaneous Ca(2+) spikes. Photo-ablation of mitochondria in individual astrocyte processes has similar effects on Ca(2+). Together, these studies show that Ca(2+) regulates mitochondrial mobility, and mitochondria in turn regulate Ca(2+) signals in astrocyte processes. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT In neurons, the movement and positioning of mitochondria at sites of elevated activity are important for matching local energy and Ca(2+) buffering capacity. Previously, we demonstrated that mitochondria are immobilized in astrocytes in response to neuronal activity and glutamate uptake. Here, we demonstrate a mechanism by which mitochondria are immobilized in astrocytes subsequent to increases in intracellular [Ca(2+)] and provide evidence that mitochondria contribute to the compartmentalization of spontaneous Ca(2+) signals in astrocyte processes. Immobilization of mitochondria at sites of glutamate uptake in astrocyte processes provides a mechanism to coordinate increases in activity with increases in mitochondrial metabolism.
Collapse
|
130
|
Victoria GS, Arkhipenko A, Zhu S, Syan S, Zurzolo C. Astrocyte-to-neuron intercellular prion transfer is mediated by cell-cell contact. Sci Rep 2016; 6:20762. [PMID: 26857744 PMCID: PMC4746738 DOI: 10.1038/srep20762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are caused by misfolding of the cellular protein PrP(C) to an infectious conformer, PrP(Sc). Intercellular PrP(Sc) transfer propagates conversion and allows infectivity to move from the periphery to the brain. However, how prions spread between cells of the central nervous system is unclear. Astrocytes are specialized non-neuronal cells within the brain that have a number of functions indispensable for brain homeostasis. Interestingly, they are one of the earliest sites of prion accumulation in the brain. A fundamental question arising from this observation is whether these cells are involved in intercellular prion transfer and thereby disease propagation. Using co-culture systems between primary infected astrocytes and granule neurons or neuronal cell lines, we provide direct evidence that prion-infected astrocytes can disseminate prion to neurons. Though astrocytes are capable of secreting PrP, this is an inefficient method of transferring prion infectivity. Efficient transfer required co-culturing and direct cell contact. Astrocytes form numerous intercellular connections including tunneling nanotubes, containing PrP(Sc), often colocalized with endolysosomal vesicles, which may constitute the major mechanism of transfer. Because of their role in intercellular transfer of prions astrocytes may influence progression of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guiliana Soraya Victoria
- Unité Trafic Membranaire et Pathogenèse, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Docteur Roux, 75724 Paris CEDEX 15, France
| | - Alexander Arkhipenko
- Unité Trafic Membranaire et Pathogenèse, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Docteur Roux, 75724 Paris CEDEX 15, France
| | - Seng Zhu
- Unité Trafic Membranaire et Pathogenèse, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Docteur Roux, 75724 Paris CEDEX 15, France
| | - Sylvie Syan
- Unité Trafic Membranaire et Pathogenèse, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Docteur Roux, 75724 Paris CEDEX 15, France
| | - Chiara Zurzolo
- Unité Trafic Membranaire et Pathogenèse, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Docteur Roux, 75724 Paris CEDEX 15, France
| |
Collapse
|
131
|
Rial D, Lemos C, Pinheiro H, Duarte JM, Gonçalves FQ, Real JI, Prediger RD, Gonçalves N, Gomes CA, Canas PM, Agostinho P, Cunha RA. Depression as a Glial-Based Synaptic Dysfunction. Front Cell Neurosci 2016; 9:521. [PMID: 26834566 PMCID: PMC4722129 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2015] [Accepted: 12/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies combining pharmacological, behavioral, electrophysiological and molecular approaches indicate that depression results from maladaptive neuroplastic processes occurring in defined frontolimbic circuits responsible for emotional processing such as the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala and ventral striatum. However, the exact mechanisms controlling synaptic plasticity that are disrupted to trigger depressive conditions have not been elucidated. Since glial cells (astrocytes and microglia) tightly and dynamically interact with synapses, engaging a bi-directional communication critical for the processing of synaptic information, we now revisit the role of glial cells in the etiology of depression focusing on a dysfunction of the “quad-partite” synapse. This interest is supported by the observations that depressive-like conditions are associated with a decreased density and hypofunction of astrocytes and with an increased microglia “activation” in frontolimbic regions, which is expected to contribute for the synaptic dysfunction present in depression. Furthermore, the traditional culprits of depression (glucocorticoids, biogenic amines, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, BDNF) affect glia functioning, whereas antidepressant treatments (serotonin-selective reuptake inhibitors, SSRIs, electroshocks, deep brain stimulation) recover glia functioning. In this context of a quad-partite synapse, systems modulating glia-synapse bidirectional communication—such as the purinergic neuromodulation system operated by adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine—emerge as promising candidates to “re-normalize” synaptic function by combining direct synaptic effects with an ability to also control astrocyte and microglia function. This proposed triple action of purines to control aberrant synaptic function illustrates the rationale to consider the interference with glia dysfunction as a mechanism of action driving the design of future pharmacological tools to manage depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Rial
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of CoimbraCoimbra, Portugal; Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SCBrazil
| | - Cristina Lemos
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Helena Pinheiro
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana M Duarte
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Francisco Q Gonçalves
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana I Real
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rui D Prediger
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC Brazil
| | - Nélio Gonçalves
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Catarina A Gomes
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of CoimbraCoimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, University of CoimbraCoimbra, Portugal
| | - Paula M Canas
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paula Agostinho
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of CoimbraCoimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, University of CoimbraCoimbra, Portugal
| | - Rodrigo A Cunha
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of CoimbraCoimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, University of CoimbraCoimbra, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
132
|
Popiolek-Barczyk K, Mika J. Targeting the Microglial Signaling Pathways: New Insights in the Modulation of Neuropathic Pain. Curr Med Chem 2016; 23:2908-2928. [PMID: 27281131 PMCID: PMC5427777 DOI: 10.2174/0929867323666160607120124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Revised: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The microglia, once thought only to be supporting cells of the central nervous system (CNS), are now recognized to play essential roles in many pathologies. Many studies within the last decades indicated that the neuro-immune interaction underlies the generation and maintenance of neuropathic pain. Through a large number of receptors and signaling pathways, the microglial cells communicate with neurons, astrocytes and other cells, including those of the immune system. A disturbance or loss of CNS homeostasis causes rapid responses of the microglia, which undergo a multistage activation process. The activated microglia change their cell shapes and gene expression profiles, which induce proliferation, migration, and the production of pro- or antinociceptive factors. The cells release a large number of mediators that can act in a manner detrimental or beneficial to the surrounding cells and can indirectly alter the nociceptive signals. This review discusses the most important microglial intracellular signaling cascades (MAPKs, NF-kB, JAK/STAT, PI3K/Akt) that are essential for neuropathic pain development and maintenance. Our objective was to identify new molecular targets that may result in the development of powerful tools to control the signaling associated with neuropathic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Joanna Mika
- Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Department of Pain Pharmacology, 12 Smetna Str., 31-343 Krakow, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
133
|
Rosenegger DG, Gordon GR. A slow or modulatory role of astrocytes in neurovascular coupling. Microcirculation 2015; 22:197-203. [PMID: 25556627 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are thought to play an important role in NVC, a process that allows the brain to locally control blood flow in response to changes in activity. However, there is an ongoing debate as to when, and under what conditions astrocyte activity is required. In the following review we set forth the hypotheses that astrocytes: (i) act to modulate but not initiate functional hyperemia and (ii) help set the basal tone state of the brain microvasculature by the tonic release of vaso-active messengers. Through these actions astrocytes could help match metabolic demand with supply over a spectrum of activity timescales.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David George Rosenegger
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
134
|
Zhang Y, Sloan SA, Clarke LE, Caneda C, Plaza CA, Blumenthal PD, Vogel H, Steinberg GK, Edwards MSB, Li G, Duncan JA, Cheshier SH, Shuer LM, Chang EF, Grant GA, Gephart MGH, Barres BA. Purification and Characterization of Progenitor and Mature Human Astrocytes Reveals Transcriptional and Functional Differences with Mouse. Neuron 2015; 89:37-53. [PMID: 26687838 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2015.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1474] [Impact Index Per Article: 163.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2015] [Revised: 10/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The functional and molecular similarities and distinctions between human and murine astrocytes are poorly understood. Here, we report the development of an immunopanning method to acutely purify astrocytes from fetal, juvenile, and adult human brains and to maintain these cells in serum-free cultures. We found that human astrocytes have abilities similar to those of murine astrocytes in promoting neuronal survival, inducing functional synapse formation, and engulfing synaptosomes. In contrast to existing observations in mice, we found that mature human astrocytes respond robustly to glutamate. Next, we performed RNA sequencing of healthy human astrocytes along with astrocytes from epileptic and tumor foci and compared these to human neurons, oligodendrocytes, microglia, and endothelial cells (available at http://www.brainrnaseq.org). With these profiles, we identified novel human-specific astrocyte genes and discovered a transcriptome-wide transformation between astrocyte precursor cells and mature post-mitotic astrocytes. These data represent some of the first cell-type-specific molecular profiles of the healthy and diseased human brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| | - Steven A Sloan
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Laura E Clarke
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Christine Caneda
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Colton A Plaza
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Paul D Blumenthal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Hannes Vogel
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Gary K Steinberg
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital and Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michael S B Edwards
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital and Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Gordon Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital and Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - John A Duncan
- Department of Pediatric Neurosciences, Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara Medical Center, Santa Clara, CA 95051, USA
| | - Samuel H Cheshier
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital and Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Lawrence M Shuer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital and Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Edward F Chang
- UCSF Epilepsy Center, University of California, San Francisco, 400 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Gerald A Grant
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital and Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Melanie G Hayden Gephart
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital and Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Ben A Barres
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| |
Collapse
|
135
|
Lee HJ, Dreyfus C, DiCicco-Bloom E. Valproic acid stimulates proliferation of glial precursors during cortical gliogenesis in developing rat. Dev Neurobiol 2015; 76:780-98. [PMID: 26505176 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2015] [Revised: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Valproic acid (VPA) is a neurotherapeutic drug prescribed for seizures, bipolar disorder, and migraine, including women of reproductive age. VPA is a well-known teratogen that produces congenital malformations in many organs including the nervous system, as well as later neurodevelopmental disorders, including mental retardation and autism. In developing brain, few studies have examined VPA effects on glial cells, particularly astrocytes. To investigate effects on primary glial precursors, we developed new cell culture and in vivo models using frontal cerebral cortex of postnatal day (P2) rat. In vitro, VPA exposure elicited dose-dependent, biphasic effects on DNA synthesis and proliferation. In vivo VPA (300 mg/kg) exposure from P2 to P4 increased both DNA synthesis and cell proliferation, affecting primarily astrocyte precursors, as >75% of mitotic cells expressed brain lipid-binding protein. Significantly, the consequence of early VPA exposure was increased astrocytes, as both S100-β+ cells and glial fibrillary acidic protein were increased in adolescent brain. Molecularly, VPA served as an HDAC inhibitor in vitro and in vivo as enhanced proliferation was accompanied by increased histone acetylation, whereas it elicited changes in culture in cell-cycle regulators, including cyclin D1 and E, and cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors, p21 and p27. Collectively, these data suggest clinically relevant VPA exposures stimulate glial precursor proliferation, though at higher doses can elicit inhibition through differential regulation of CDK inhibitors. Because changes in glial cell functions are proposed as mechanisms contributing to neuropsychiatric disorders, these observations suggest that VPA teratogenic actions may be mediated through changes in astrocyte generation during development. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 76: 780-798, 2016.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hee Jae Lee
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheryl Dreyfus
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Emanuel DiCicco-Bloom
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey.,Department of Pediatrics, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| |
Collapse
|
136
|
Hirase H, Iwai Y, Takata N, Shinohara Y, Mishima T. Volume transmission signalling via astrocytes. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2015; 369:20130604. [PMID: 25225097 PMCID: PMC4173289 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2013.0604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The influence of astrocytes on synaptic function has been increasingly studied, owing to the discovery of both gliotransmission and morphological ensheathment of synapses. While astrocytes exhibit at best modest membrane potential fluctuations, activation of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) leads to a prominent elevation of intracellular calcium which has been reported to correlate with gliotransmission. In this review, the possible role of astrocytic GPCR activation is discussed as a trigger to promote synaptic plasticity, by affecting synaptic receptors through gliotransmitters. Moreover, we suggest that volume transmission of neuromodulators could be a biological mechanism to activate astrocytic GPCRs and thereby to switch synaptic networks to the plastic mode during states of attention in cerebral cortical structures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hajime Hirase
- Laboratory for Neuron-Glia Circuitry, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Wako, Saitama, Japan Saitama University Brain Science Institute, Saitama, Saitama, Japan
| | - Youichi Iwai
- Laboratory for Neuron-Glia Circuitry, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Wako, Saitama, Japan
| | - Norio Takata
- Laboratory for Neuron-Glia Circuitry, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Wako, Saitama, Japan Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Keio University, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Shinohara
- Laboratory for Neuron-Glia Circuitry, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Wako, Saitama, Japan
| | - Tsuneko Mishima
- Laboratory for Neuron-Glia Circuitry, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Wako, Saitama, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
137
|
Enger R, Tang W, Vindedal GF, Jensen V, Johannes Helm P, Sprengel R, Looger LL, Nagelhus EA. Dynamics of Ionic Shifts in Cortical Spreading Depression. Cereb Cortex 2015; 25:4469-76. [PMID: 25840424 PMCID: PMC4816793 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhv054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cortical spreading depression is a slowly propagating wave of near-complete depolarization of brain cells followed by temporary suppression of neuronal activity. Accumulating evidence indicates that cortical spreading depression underlies the migraine aura and that similar waves promote tissue damage in stroke, trauma, and hemorrhage. Cortical spreading depression is characterized by neuronal swelling, profound elevation of extracellular potassium and glutamate, multiphasic blood flow changes, and drop in tissue oxygen tension. The slow speed of the cortical spreading depression wave implies that it is mediated by diffusion of a chemical substance, yet the identity of this substance and the pathway it follows are unknown. Intercellular spread between gap junction-coupled neurons or glial cells and interstitial diffusion of K(+) or glutamate have been proposed. Here we use extracellular direct current potential recordings, K(+)-sensitive microelectrodes, and 2-photon imaging with ultrasensitive Ca(2+) and glutamate fluorescent probes to elucidate the spatiotemporal dynamics of ionic shifts associated with the propagation of cortical spreading depression in the visual cortex of adult living mice. Our data argue against intercellular spread of Ca(2+) carrying the cortical spreading depression wavefront and are in favor of interstitial K(+) diffusion, rather than glutamate diffusion, as the leading event in cortical spreading depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rune Enger
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, 0027 Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Letten Centre and GliaLab, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Wannan Tang
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Letten Centre and GliaLab, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, D69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Gry Fluge Vindedal
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Letten Centre and GliaLab, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Vidar Jensen
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Letten Centre and GliaLab, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - P. Johannes Helm
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Letten Centre and GliaLab, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Rolf Sprengel
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, D69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Loren L. Looger
- Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Erlend A. Nagelhus
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, 0027 Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, Nordic EMBL Partnership, University of Oslo, 0318 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Letten Centre and GliaLab, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, D69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
138
|
Sreetama SC, Takano T, Nedergaard M, Simon SM, Jaiswal JK. Injured astrocytes are repaired by Synaptotagmin XI-regulated lysosome exocytosis. Cell Death Differ 2015; 23:596-607. [PMID: 26450452 DOI: 10.1038/cdd.2015.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2015] [Revised: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 08/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are known to facilitate repair following brain injury; however, little is known about how injured astrocytes repair themselves. Repair of cell membrane injury requires Ca(2+)-triggered vesicle exocytosis. In astrocytes, lysosomes are the main Ca(2+)-regulated exocytic vesicles. Here we show that astrocyte cell membrane injury results in a large and rapid calcium increase. This triggers robust lysosome exocytosis where the fusing lysosomes release all luminal contents and merge fully with the plasma membrane. In contrast to this, receptor stimulation produces a small sustained calcium increase, which is associated with partial release of the lysosomal luminal content, and the lysosome membrane does not merge into the plasma membrane. In most cells, lysosomes express the synaptotagmin (Syt) isoform Syt VII; however, this isoform is not present on astrocyte lysosomes and exogenous expression of Syt VII on lysosome inhibits their exocytosis. Deletion of one of the most abundant Syt isoform in astrocyte--Syt XI--suppresses astrocyte lysosome exocytosis. This identifies lysosome as Syt XI-regulated exocytic vesicle in astrocytes. Further, inhibition of lysosome exocytosis (by Syt XI depletion or Syt VII expression) prevents repair of injured astrocytes. These results identify the lysosomes and Syt XI as the sub-cellular and molecular regulators, respectively of astrocyte cell membrane repair.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Sreetama
- Center for Genetic Medicine Research, Children's National Medical Center, 111 Michigan Avenue NW, Washington, DC, USA
| | - T Takano
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - M Nedergaard
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - S M Simon
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY, USA
| | - J K Jaiswal
- Center for Genetic Medicine Research, Children's National Medical Center, 111 Michigan Avenue NW, Washington, DC, USA.,Department of Integrative Systems Biology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, 111 Michigan Avenue NW, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
139
|
Do stars govern our actions? Astrocyte involvement in rodent behavior. Trends Neurosci 2015; 38:535-49. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2015.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2015] [Revised: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
140
|
Sun WC, Liang ZD, Pei L. Propofol-induced rno-miR-665 targets BCL2L1 and influences apoptosis in rodent developing hippocampal astrocytes. Neurotoxicology 2015; 51:87-95. [PMID: 26254736 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2015.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Revised: 08/01/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Propofol exerts neurotoxic effects on the developing mammalian brains, but the underlying molecular mechanism remains unclear. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small noncoding RNAs that modulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. However, in specific types of neurocytes, the detailed functions of miRNAs were not entirely understood. We investigated the potential role of miRNAs in astrocyte pathogenesis caused by propofol. We performed genome-wide microRNA expression profiling in immature cultured hippocampal astrocytes by microarray analysis and predicted their targets and functions using bioinformatics tools. The functional effects of one differentially expressed miRNA were examined experimentally in relation to astrocyte viability. The results showed that 13 miRNAs were significantly differentially expressed after both short-term exposure to high-concentration propofol (10 μg/ml for 1h) and long-term exposure to low-concentration propofol (0.9 μg/ml for 48 h), including rno-miR-665, differing significantly between the 2. Bioinformatics predicted putative binding sites for rno-miR-665 existing in the 3'-untranslated region of Bcl-2-like protein 1 BCL2L1 (Bcl-xl) mRNA. Moreover, such relationship was assessed by luciferase reporter assay, qRT-PCR and western blot. Rno-miR-665 which was significantly up-regulated by propofol can suppress BCL2L1 and elevate cleaved caspase-3 expression in immature astrocytes in vitro. Apoptosis of developing hippocampal astrocytes was thus significantly influenced by propofol or rno-miR-665, or both. Taken together, rno-miR-665 is involved in the neurotoxicity induced by propofol via a caspase-3 mediated mechanism by negatively regulating BCL2L1. It might act as an alternative therapeutic target for treatment of neurological disorders in peadiatric prolonged anesthesia or sedation with propofol clinically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Chong Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Zuo-Di Liang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Ling Pei
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning, China.
| |
Collapse
|
141
|
Decrock E, De Bock M, Wang N, Bultynck G, Giaume C, Naus CC, Green CR, Leybaert L. Connexin and pannexin signaling pathways, an architectural blueprint for CNS physiology and pathology? Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:2823-51. [PMID: 26118660 PMCID: PMC11113968 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-1962-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The central nervous system (CNS) is composed of a highly heterogeneous population of cells. Dynamic interactions between different compartments (neuronal, glial, and vascular systems) drive CNS function and allow to integrate and process information as well as to respond accordingly. Communication within this functional unit, coined the neuro-glio-vascular unit (NGVU), typically relies on two main mechanisms: direct cell-cell coupling via gap junction channels (GJCs) and paracrine communication via the extracellular compartment, two routes to which channels composed of transmembrane connexin (Cx) or pannexin (Panx) proteins can contribute. Multiple isoforms of both protein families are present in the CNS and each CNS cell type is characterized by a unique Cx/Panx portfolio. Over the last two decades, research has uncovered a multilevel platform via which Cxs and Panxs can influence different cellular functions within a tissue: (1) Cx GJCs enable a direct cell-cell communication of small molecules, (2) Cx hemichannels and Panx channels can contribute to autocrine/paracrine signaling pathways, and (3) different structural domains of these proteins allow for channel-independent functions, such as cell-cell adhesion, interactions with the cytoskeleton, and the activation of intracellular signaling pathways. In this paper, we discuss current knowledge on their multifaceted contribution to brain development and to specific processes in the NGVU, including synaptic transmission and plasticity, glial signaling, vasomotor control, and blood-brain barrier integrity in the mature CNS. By highlighting both physiological and pathological conditions, it becomes evident that Cxs and Panxs can play a dual role in the CNS and that an accurate fine-tuning of each signaling mechanism is crucial for normal CNS physiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elke Decrock
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (Block B, 3rd floor), 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marijke De Bock
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (Block B, 3rd floor), 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nan Wang
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (Block B, 3rd floor), 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Geert Bultynck
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Signalling, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Christian Giaume
- Collège de France, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB)/Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7241/Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1050, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France
- University Pierre et Marie
Curie, ED, N°158, 75005 Paris, France
- MEMOLIFE Laboratory of Excellence and Paris Science Lettre Research University, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Christian C. Naus
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3 Canada
| | - Colin R. Green
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (Block B, 3rd floor), 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
142
|
Wang C, Aleksic B, Ozaki N. Glia-related genes and their contribution to schizophrenia. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2015; 69:448-61. [PMID: 25759284 DOI: 10.1111/pcn.12290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia, a debilitating disease with 1% prevalence in the general population, is characterized by major neuropsychiatric symptoms, including delusions, hallucinations, and deficits in emotional and social behavior. Previous studies have directed their investigations on the mechanism of schizophrenia towards neuronal dysfunction and have defined schizophrenia as a 'neuron-centric' disorder. However, along with the development of genetics and systematic biology approaches in recent years, the crucial role of glial cells in the brain has also been shown to contribute to the etiopathology of schizophrenia. Here, we summarize comprehensive data that support the involvement of glial cells (including oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, and microglial cells) in schizophrenia and list several acknowledged glia-related genes or molecules associated with schizophrenia. Instead of purely an abnormality of neurons in schizophrenia, an additional 'glial perspective' provides us a novel and promising insight into the causal mechanisms and treatment for this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chenyao Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Branko Aleksic
- Department of Psychiatry, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Norio Ozaki
- Department of Psychiatry, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
143
|
Fields RD, Woo DH, Basser PJ. Glial Regulation of the Neuronal Connectome through Local and Long-Distant Communication. Neuron 2015; 86:374-86. [PMID: 25905811 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2015.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
If "the connectome" represents a complete map of anatomical and functional connectivity in the brain, it should also include glia. Glia define and regulate both the brain's anatomical and functional connectivity over a broad range of length scales, spanning the whole brain to subcellular domains of synaptic interactions. This Perspective article examines glial interactions with the neuronal connectome (including long-range networks, local circuits, and individual synaptic connections) and highlights opportunities for future research. Our understanding of the structure and function of the neuronal connectome would be incomplete without an understanding of how all types of glia contribute to neuronal connectivity and function, from single synapses to circuits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Douglas Fields
- Nervous System Development and Plasticity Section, The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Dong Ho Woo
- Nervous System Development and Plasticity Section, The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Peter J Basser
- Section on Tissue Biophysics and Biomimetics, Program on Pediatric Imaging and Tissue Sciences, The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| |
Collapse
|
144
|
Interaction of H2S with Calcium Permeable Channels and Transporters. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2015; 2015:323269. [PMID: 26078804 PMCID: PMC4442308 DOI: 10.1155/2015/323269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2014] [Revised: 10/14/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
A growing amount of evidence has suggested that hydrogen sulfide (H2S), as a gasotransmitter, is involved in intensive physiological and pathological processes. More and more research groups have found that H2S mediates diverse cellular biological functions related to regulating intracellular calcium concentration. These groups have demonstrated the reciprocal interaction between H2S and calcium ion channels and transporters, such as L-type calcium channels (LTCC), T-type calcium channels (TTCC), sodium/calcium exchangers (NCX), transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, β-adrenergic receptors, and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) in different cells. However, the understanding of the molecular targets and mechanisms is incomplete. Recently, some research groups demonstrated that H2S modulates the activity of calcium ion channels through protein S-sulfhydration and polysulfide reactions. In this review, we elucidate that H2S controls intracellular calcium homeostasis and the underlying mechanisms.
Collapse
|
145
|
Wu XL, Tang YC, Lu QY, Xiao XL, Song TB, Tang FR. Astrocytic Cx 43 and Cx 40 in the mouse hippocampus during and after pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus. Exp Brain Res 2015; 233:1529-39. [PMID: 25690864 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-015-4226-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes have now been well accepted to play important roles in epileptogenesis by controlling gliotransmitter release and neuronal excitability, contributing to blood-brain barrier dysfunction and involving in brain inflammation. Recent studies indicate that abnormal expression of gap junction protein connexin (Cx) may also be a contributing factor for seizure generation. To further address this issue, we investigated the progressive changes of Cx 43 and Cx 40 in the mouse hippocampus at 4 h, 1 day, 1 week and 2 months during and after pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus (PISE). The co-localization of Cx 43 and Cx 40 with glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was also examined. We observed that Cx 43 and Cx 40 protein expression remained unaltered at 4 h during and at 1 day (acute stage) after PISE. However, their expression was significantly increased in CA1 and CA3 areas and in the dentate gyrus at 1 week (latent stage) and 2 months (chronic stage) after PISE. Double immunofluorescence labeling indicated the localization of Cx 43 and Cx 40 in astrocytes. Combined with progressive neuronal loss in the mouse hippocampus, our results suggest that the increase in gap junctions in the neuronoglial syncytium of reactive astrocytes may be implicated in synchronization of hippocampal hyperactivity leading to neuronal loss and epileptogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- X L Wu
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
146
|
Astrocyte physiopathology: At the crossroads of intercellular networking, inflammation and cell death. Prog Neurobiol 2015; 130:86-120. [PMID: 25930681 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2015.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2014] [Revised: 04/15/2015] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recent breakthroughs in neuroscience have led to the awareness that we should revise our traditional mode of thinking and studying the CNS, i.e. by isolating the privileged network of "intelligent" synaptic contacts. We may instead need to contemplate all the variegate communications occurring between the different neural cell types, and centrally involving the astrocytes. Basically, it appears that a single astrocyte should be considered as a core that receives and integrates information from thousands of synapses, other glial cells and the blood vessels. In turn, it generates complex outputs that control the neural circuitry and coordinate it with the local microcirculation. Astrocytes thus emerge as the possible fulcrum of the functional homeostasis of the healthy CNS. Yet, evidence indicates that the bridging properties of the astrocytes can change in parallel with, or as a result of, the morphological, biochemical and functional alterations these cells undergo upon injury or disease. As a consequence, they have the potential to transform from supportive friends and interactive partners for neurons into noxious foes. In this review, we summarize the currently available knowledge on the contribution of astrocytes to the functioning of the CNS and what goes wrong in various pathological conditions, with a particular focus on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Alzheimer's Disease and ischemia. The observations described convincingly demonstrate that the development and progression of several neurological disorders involve the de-regulation of a finely tuned interplay between multiple cell populations. Thus, it seems that a better understanding of the mechanisms governing the integrated communication and detrimental responses of the astrocytes as well as their impact towards the homeostasis and performance of the CNS is fundamental to open novel therapeutic perspectives.
Collapse
|
147
|
Abstract
Gliotransmission, a process involving active vesicular release of glutamate and other neurotransmitters by astrocytes, is thought to play a critical role in many brain functions. A new paper by Nedergaard et al. (2014) identifies an experimental flaw in these previous studies suggesting that astrocytes may not perform active vesicular release after all.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven A Sloan
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305-5125, USA.
| | - Ben A Barres
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305-5125, USA
| |
Collapse
|
148
|
Astrocyte sodium signaling and neuro-metabolic coupling in the brain. Neuroscience 2015; 323:121-34. [PMID: 25791228 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Revised: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
At tripartite synapses, astrocytes undergo calcium signaling in response to release of neurotransmitters and this calcium signaling has been proposed to play a critical role in neuron-glia interaction. Recent work has now firmly established that, in addition, neuronal activity also evokes sodium transients in astrocytes, which can be local or global depending on the number of activated synapses and the duration of activity. Furthermore, astrocyte sodium signals can be transmitted to adjacent cells through gap junctions and following release of gliotransmitters. A main pathway for activity-related sodium influx into astrocytes is via high-affinity sodium-dependent glutamate transporters. Astrocyte sodium signals differ in many respects from the well-described glial calcium signals both in terms of their temporal as well as spatial distribution. There are no known buffering systems for sodium ions, nor is there store-mediated release of sodium. Sodium signals thus seem to represent rather direct and unbiased indicators of the site and strength of neuronal inputs. As such they have an immediate influence on the activity of sodium-dependent transporters which may even reverse in response to sodium signaling, as has been shown for GABA transporters for example. Furthermore, recovery from sodium transients through Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase requires a measurable amount of ATP, resulting in an activation of glial metabolism. In this review, we present basic principles of sodium regulation and the current state of knowledge concerning the occurrence and properties of activity-related sodium transients in astrocytes. We then discuss different aspects of the relationship between sodium changes in astrocytes and neuro-metabolic coupling, putting forward the idea that indeed sodium might serve as a new type of intracellular ion signal playing an important role in neuron-glia interaction and neuro-metabolic coupling in the healthy and diseased brain.
Collapse
|
149
|
Abstract
Astrocytes seem to rely on relatively sluggish and spatially blurred Ca(2+) waves to communicate with fast and point-precise neural circuits. This apparent discrepancy could, however, reflect our current inability to understand the microscopic mechanisms involved. Difficulties in detecting and interpreting astrocyte Ca(2+) signals may have led to some prominent controversies in the field. Here, we argue that a deeper understanding of astrocyte physiology requires a qualitative leap in our experimental and analytical strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dmitri A Rusakov
- UCL Institute of Neurology, University College London, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| |
Collapse
|
150
|
Zorec R, Verkhratsky A, Rodríguez JJ, Parpura V. Astrocytic vesicles and gliotransmitters: Slowness of vesicular release and synaptobrevin2-laden vesicle nanoarchitecture. Neuroscience 2015; 323:67-75. [PMID: 25727638 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2014] [Revised: 02/01/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Neurotransmitters released at synapses activate neighboring astrocytes, which in turn, modulate neuronal activity by the release of diverse neuroactive substances that include classical neurotransmitters such as glutamate, GABA or ATP. Neuroactive substances are released from astrocytes through several distinct molecular mechanisms, for example, by diffusion through membrane channels, by translocation via plasmalemmal transporters or by vesicular exocytosis. Vesicular release regulated by a stimulus-mediated increase in cytosolic calcium involves soluble N-ethyl maleimide-sensitive fusion protein attachment protein receptor (SNARE)-dependent merger of the vesicle membrane with the plasmalemma. Up to 25 molecules of synaptobrevin 2 (Sb2), a SNARE complex protein, reside at a single astroglial vesicle; an individual neuronal, i.e. synaptic, vesicle contains ∼70 Sb2 molecules. It is proposed that this paucity of Sb2 molecules in astrocytic vesicles may determine the slow secretion. In the present essay we shall overview multiple aspects of vesicular architecture and types of vesicles based on their cargo and dynamics in astroglial cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Zorec
- University of Ljubljana, Institute of Pathophysiology, Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology and Molecular Cell Physiology, Zaloska cesta 4, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; Celica, BIOMEDICAL, Technology Park 24, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - A Verkhratsky
- University of Ljubljana, Institute of Pathophysiology, Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology and Molecular Cell Physiology, Zaloska cesta 4, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; Celica, BIOMEDICAL, Technology Park 24, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; Faculty of Life Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; Achucarro Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, 48011 Bilbao, Spain; University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and CIBERNED, Leioa, Spain.
| | - J J Rodríguez
- Achucarro Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, 48011 Bilbao, Spain; University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and CIBERNED, Leioa, Spain.
| | - V Parpura
- Department of Neurobiology, Civitan International Research Center and Center for Glial Biology in Medicine, Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, Atomic Force Microscopy & Nanotechnology Laboratories, 1719 6th Avenue South, CIRC 429, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294-0021, USA; Department of Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, Radmile Matejčić 2, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia.
| |
Collapse
|