The P2X7 receptor drives microglial activation and proliferation: a trophic role for P2X7R pore

The role of microglial P2X7: modulation of cell death and cytokine release

Background

ATP-gated P2X7 is a non-selective cation channel, which participates in a wide range of cellular functions as well as pathophysiological processes including neuropathic pain, immune response, and neuroinflammation. Despite its abundant expression in microglia, the role of P2X7 in neuroinflammation still remains unclear.

Methods

Primary microglia were isolated from cortices of P0-2 C57BL/6 wild-type or P2X7 knockout (P2X7^−/−) mouse pups. Lipopolysaccharide, lipopolysaccharide plus IFNγ, or IL4 plus IL13 were used to polarize microglia to pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory states. P2rx7 expression level in resting or activated mouse and human microglia was measured by RNA-sequencing and quantitative real-time PCR. Microglial cell death was measured by cell counting kit-8 and immunocytochemistry, and microglial secretion in wild-type or P2X7^−/− microglia was examined by Luminex multiplex assay or ELISA using P2X7 agonist BzATP or P2X7 antagonist A-804598. P2X7 signaling was analyzed by Western blot.

Results

First, we confirmed that P2rx7 is constitutively expressed in mouse and human primary microglia. Moreover, P2rx7 mRNA level was downregulated in mouse microglia under both pro- and anti-inflammatory conditions. Second, P2X7 agonist BzATP caused cell death of mouse microglia, while this effect was suppressed either by P2X7 knockout or by A-804598 under both basal and pro-inflammatory conditions, which suggests the mediating role of P2X7 in BzATP-induced microglial cell death. Third, BzATP-induced release of IL1 family cytokines including IL1α, IL1β, and IL18 was blocked in P2X7^−/− microglia or by A-804598 in pro-inflammatory microglia, while the release of other cytokines/chemokines was independent of P2X7 activation. These findings support the specific role of P2X7 in IL1 family cytokine release. Finally, P2X7 activation was discovered to be linked to AKT and ERK pathways, which may be the underlying mechanism of P2X7 functions in microglia.

Conclusions

These results reveal that P2X7 mediates BzATP-induced microglial cell death and specific release of IL1 family cytokines, indicating the important role of P2X7 in neuroinflammation and implying the potential of targeting P2X7 for the treatment of neuroinflammatory disorders.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12974-017-0904-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Transient P2X7 Receptor Antagonism Produces Lasting Reductions in Spontaneous Seizures and Gliosis in Experimental Temporal Lobe Epilepsy

Neuroinflammation is thought to contribute to the pathogenesis and maintenance of temporal lobe epilepsy, but the underlying cell and molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. The P2X7 receptor is an ionotropic receptor predominantly expressed on the surface of microglia, although neuronal expression has also been reported. The receptor is activated by the release of ATP from intracellular sources that occurs during neurodegeneration, leading to microglial activation and inflammasome-mediated interleukin 1β release that contributes to neuroinflammation. Using a reporter mouse in which green fluorescent protein is induced in response to the transcription of P2rx7, we show that expression of the receptor is selectively increased in CA1 pyramidal and dentate granule neurons, as well as in microglia in mice that developed epilepsy after intra-amygdala kainic acid-induced status epilepticus. P2X7 receptor levels were increased in hippocampal subfields in the mice and in resected hippocampus from patients with pharmacoresistant temporal lobe epilepsy. Cells transcribing P2rx7 in hippocampal slices from epileptic mice displayed enhanced agonist-evoked P2X7 receptor currents, and synaptosomes from these animals showed increased P2X7 receptor levels and altered calcium responses. A 5 d treatment of epileptic mice with systemic injections of the centrally available, potent, and specific P2X7 receptor antagonist JNJ-47965567 (30 mg/kg) significantly reduced spontaneous seizures during continuous video-EEG monitoring that persisted beyond the time of drug presence in the brain. Hippocampal sections from JNJ-47965567-treated animals obtained >5 d after treatment ceased displayed strongly reduced microgliosis and astrogliosis. The present study suggests that targeting the P2X7 receptor has anticonvulsant and possibly disease-modifying effects in experimental epilepsy.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Temporal lobe epilepsy is the most common and drug-resistant form of epilepsy in adults. Neuroinflammation is implicated as a pathomechanism, but the upstream mechanisms driving gliosis and how important this is for seizures remain unclear. In our study, we show that the ATP-gated P2X7 receptor is upregulated in experimental epilepsy and resected hippocampus from epilepsy patients. Targeting the receptor with a new centrally available antagonist, JNJ-47965567, suppressed epileptic seizures well beyond the time of treatment and reduced underlying gliosis in the hippocampus. The findings suggest a potential disease-modifying treatment for epilepsy based on targeting the P2X7 receptor.

Evidence that activation of P2X7R does not exacerbate neuronal death after optic nerve transection and focal cerebral ischemia in mice

Conflicting data in the literature about the function of P2X7R in survival following ischemia necessitates the conductance of in-depth studies. To investigate the impacts of activation vs inhibition of the receptor on neuronal survival as well as the downstream signaling cascades, in addition to optic nerve transection (ONT), 30min and 90min of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) models were performed in mice. Intracellular calcium levels were assessed in primary cortical neuron cultures. Here, we show that P2X7R antagonist Brilliant Blue G (BBG) decreased DNA fragmentation, infarct volume, brain swelling, neurological deficit scores and activation of microglial cells after focal cerebral ischemia. BBG also significantly increased the number of surviving retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) after ONT and the number of surviving neurons following MCAo. Importantly, receptor agonist BzATP resulted in increased activation of microglial cells and induced phosphorylation of ERK, AKT and JNK. These results indicated that inhibition of P2X7R with BBG promoted neuronal survival, not through the activation of survival kinase pathways, but possibly by improved intracellular Ca²⁺ overload and decreased the levels of Caspase 1, IL-1β and Bax proteins. On the other hand, BzATP-mediated increased number of activated microglia and increased survival kinase levels in addition to increased caspase-1 and IL-1β levels indicate the complex nature of the P2X7 receptor-mediated signaling in neuronal injury.

Neuronal P2X7 receptor-induced reactive oxygen species production contributes to nociceptive behavior in mice

ATP can activate a variety of pathways through P2 purinoreceptors, leading to neuroprotection and pathology in the CNS. Among all P2X receptors, the P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is a well-defined therapeutic target for inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Activation of P2X7R can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) in macrophages and microglia. However, the role of ROS in P2X7R–induced pain remains unexplored. Here, we investigated the downstream effects of neuronal P2X7R activation in the spinal cord. We found that ATP induces ROS production in spinal cord dorsal horn neurons, an effect eliminated by ROS scavenger N-tert-butyl-α-phenylnitrone (PBN) and P2X7R antagonist A438079. A similar effect was observed with a P2X7R agonist, BzATP, and was attenuated by a NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin. Intrathecal administration of BzATP resulted in ROS production in the spinal cord and oxidative DNA damage in dorsal horn neurons. BzATP also induced robust biphasic spontaneous nociceptive behavior. Pre-treatment with A438079 abolished all BzATP-induced nociceptive behaviors, while ROS scavengers dose-dependently attenuated the secondary response. Here, we provide evidence that neuronal P2X7R activation leads to ROS production and subsequent nociceptive pain in mice. Together, the data indicate that P2X7R-induced ROS play a critical role in the P2X7R signaling pathway of the CNS.

P2X7 Receptors Drive Spine Synapse Plasticity in the Learned Helplessness Model of Depression

BACKGROUND

Major depressive disorder is characterized by structural and functional abnormalities of cortical and limbic brain areas, including a decrease in spine synapse number in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Recent studies highlighted that both genetic and pharmacological invalidation of the purinergic P2X7 receptor (P2rx7) leads to antidepressant-like phenotype in animal experiments; however, the impact of P2rx7 on depression-related structural changes in the hippocampus is not clarified yet.

METHODS

Effects of genetic deletion of P2rx7s on depressive-like behavior and spine synapse density in the dentate gyrus were investigated using the learned helplessness mouse model of depression.

RESULTS

We demonstrate that in wild-type animals, inescapable footshocks lead to learned helplessness behavior reflected in increased latency and number of escape failures to subsequent escapable footshocks. This behavior is accompanied with downregulation of mRNA encoding P2rx7 and decrease of spine synapse density in the dentate gyrus as determined by electron microscopic stereology. In addition, a decrease in synaptopodin but not in PSD95 and NR2B/GluN2B protein level was also observed under these conditions. Whereas the absence of P2rx7 was characterized by escape deficit, no learned helpless behavior is observed in these animals. Likewise, no decrease in spine synapse number and synaptopodin protein levels was detected in response to inescapable footshocks in P2rx7-deficient animals.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest the endogenous activation of P2rx7s in the learned helplessness model of depression and decreased plasticity of spine synapses in P2rx7-deficient mice might explain the resistance of these animals to repeated stressful stimuli.

Activation of P2X7 receptor and NLRP3 inflammasome assembly in hippocampal glial cells mediates chronic stress-induced depressive-like behaviors

Background

In recent years, proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β (IL-1β) was considered to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of depression. In addition, P2X7 receptor (P2X7R), a member of the purinergic receptor family, which is predominantly present on microglia, as well as on astrocytes and neurons in lesser amounts in the central nervous system, was suggested to be involved in the processing and releasing of IL-1β. Here, we investigated the role of P2X7R in the pathogenesis of depression.

Methods

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to chronic unpredictable stressors (CUS) for 3 weeks. At the end of week 1, 2, and 3, extracellular ATP, caspase 1, IL-1β, and components and activation of NLRP3 inflammasome (nucleotide-binding, leucine-rich repeat, pyrin domain containing 3) were evaluated as biomarker of neuroinflammation. In separate experiments, the rats were microinjected with P2X7R agonists ATP, BzATP, and saline into the hippocampus, respectively, or exposed to CUS combined with hippocampal microinjection with P2X7R antagonist, BBG and A438079, and saline, respectively, for 3 weeks, followed by exposed to forced swimming test and open-field test. Moreover, we also evaluated the depressive and anxiety-like behavior of P2X7-null mice in forced swimming test, open-field test, and elevated plus maze.

Results

Along with stress accumulation, extracellular ATP, cleaved-caspase 1, IL-1β, and ASC were significantly enhanced in the hippocampus, but P2X7R and NLRP3 were not. Immunoprecipitation assay indicated that along with the accumulation of stress, assembly of NLRP3 inflammasome and cleaved caspase 1 in NLRP3 inflammasome were significantly increased. Moreover, antagonists of P2X7R, either BBG or A438079, prevented the development of depressive-like behaviors induced by chronic unpredictable stress in rats. Meanwhile, we could not observe any depressive-like or anxiety-like behaviors of P2X7-null mice after they had been exposed to CUS. The results implied that P2X7 knockout could impede the development of depressive-like and anxiety-like behaviors induced by CUS. In contrast, chronic administration of agonists of P2X7R, either ATP or BzATP, could induce depressive-like behaviors.

Conclusions

The activation of P2X7R and subsequent NLRP3 inflammasome in hippocampal microglial cells could mediate depressive-like behaviors, which suggests a new therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of depression.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12974-017-0865-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Pharmacologic characterizations of a P2X7 receptor-specific radioligand, [11C]GSK1482160 for neuroinflammatory response

OBJECTIVE

The P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is a key regulatory element in the neuroinflammatory cascade that provides a promising target for imaging neuroinflammation. GSK1482160, a P2X7R modulator with nanomolar binding affinity and high selectivity, has been successfully radiolabeled and utilized for imaging P2X7 levels in a mouse model of lipopolysaccharide-induced systemic inflammation. In the current study, we further characterized its binding profile and determined whether [C]GSK1482160 can detect changes in P2X7R expression in a rodent model of multiple sclerosis.

METHODS

[C]GSK1482160 was synthesized with high specific activity and high radiochemical purity. Radioligand saturation and competition binding assays were performed for [C]GSK1482160 using HEK293-hP2X7R living cells. Micro-PET studies were carried out in nonhuman primates. In vitro autoradiography and immunohistochemistry studies were then carried out to evaluate tracer uptake and P2X7 expression in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) rat lumbar spinal cord at EAE-peak and EAE-remitting stages compared with sham rats.

RESULTS

[C]GSK1482160 binds to HEK293-hP2X7R living cells with high binding affinity (Kd=5.09±0.98 nmol/l, Ki=2.63±0.6 nmol/l). Micro-PET studies showed high tracer retention and a homogeneous distribution in the brain of nonhuman primates. In the EAE rat model, tracer uptake of [C]GSK1482160 in rat lumbar spinal cord was the highest at the EAE-peak stage (277.74±79.74 PSL/mm), followed by the EAE-remitting stage(149.00±54.14 PSL/mm) and sham (66.37±1.48 PSL/mm). The tracer uptake correlated strongly with P2X7-positive cell counts, activated microglia numbers, and disease severity.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that [C]GSK1482160 has the potential for application in monitoring neuroinflammation.

P2X7 antagonism using Brilliant Blue G reduces body weight loss and prolongs survival in female SOD1G93A amyotrophic lateral sclerosis mice

BACKGROUND

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative disease characterised by the accumulation of aggregated proteins, microglia activation and motor neuron loss. The mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration and disease progression in ALS are unknown, but the ATP-gated P2X7 receptor channel is implicated in this disease. Therefore, the current study aimed to examine P2X7 in the context of neurodegeneration, and investigate whether the P2X7 antagonist, Brilliant Blue G (BBG), could alter disease progression in a murine model of ALS.

METHODS

Human SOD1G93A transgenic mice, which normally develop ALS, were injected with BBG or saline, three times per week, from pre-onset of clinical disease (62-64 days of age) until end-stage. During the course of treatment mice were assessed for weight, clinical score and survival, and motor coordination, which was assessed by rotarod performance. Various parameters from end-stage mice were assessed as follows. Motor neuron loss and microgliosis were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Relative amounts of lumbar spinal cord SOD1 and P2X7 were quantified by immunoblotting. Serum monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 was measured by ELISA. Splenic leukocyte populations were assessed by flow cytometry. Relative expression of splenic and hepatic P2X7 mRNA was measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Lumbar spinal cord SOD1 and P2X7 were also quantified by immunoblotting in untreated female SOD1G93A mice during the course of disease.

RESULTS

BBG treatment reduced body weight loss in SOD1G93A mice of combined sex, but had no effect on clinical score, survival or motor coordination. BBG treatment reduced body weight loss in female, but not male, SOD1G93A mice. BBG treatment also prolonged survival in female, but not male, SOD1G93A mice, extending the mean survival time by 4.3% in female mice compared to female mice treated with saline. BBG treatment had no effect on clinical score or motor coordination in either sex. BBG treatment had no major effect on any end-stage parameters. Total amounts of lumbar spinal cord SOD1 and P2X7 in untreated female SOD1G93A mice did not change over time.

DISCUSSION

Collectively, this data suggests P2X7 may have a partial role in ALS progression in mice, but additional research is required to fully elucidate the contribution of this receptor in this disease.

The ATP-Gated P2X7 Receptor As a Target for the Treatment of Drug-Resistant Epilepsy

Despite the progress made in the development of new antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), the biggest challenges that epilepsy presents to drug development have remained unchanged for the last 80 years: finding a treatment with potential for modifying disease progression and reducing the percentage of patients resistant to all pharmacological interventions. The mechanism of action of the majority of AEDs is based on blocking Na⁺ and/or Ca²⁺ channels, promotion of GABA or inhibition of glutamate signaling. In order for further progress to be made, however, a fuller picture of epilepsy will need to be considered, including changes to blood–brain barrier permeability, synaptic plasticity, network reorganization, and gliosis. In particular, brain inflammation has attracted much attention over recent years. Emerging evidence demonstrates a causal role for brain inflammation in lowering seizure thresholds and driving epileptogenesis. Consistent with this, intervening in pro-inflammatory cascades has shown promise in animal models of epilepsy, with clinical trials of anti-inflammatory agents already underway. The ATP-gated purinergic P2X7 receptor (P2X7) has been proposed as a novel drug target for a host of neurological conditions, including epilepsy. Constitutive expression of P2X7 in the CNS is mainly on microglia, but neuronal and astroglial expression has also been suggested. Its function as a gatekeeper of inflammation is most clearly understood, however, it also plays a number of other important roles pertinent to icto- and epileptogenesis: depolarization of the cell membrane, release of macromolecules, induction of apoptosis and synaptic reorganization. Changes in P2X7 expression have been reported following prolonged seizures (status epilepticus) and during chronic epilepsy in both experimental models and patients. While much of the early work focused on the study of P2X7 during status epilepticus, there is now mounting data showing involvement of this receptor during epilepsy. The present short review will discuss the most recent findings concerning P2X7 expression and function during epilepsy and the clinical potential for P2X7 antagonists as novel AEDs.

CD40 in Retinal Müller Cells Induces P2X7-Dependent Cytokine Expression in Macrophages/Microglia in Diabetic Mice and Development of Early Experimental Diabetic Retinopathy

Müller cells and macrophages/microglia are likely important for the development of diabetic retinopathy; however, the interplay between these cells in this disease is not well understood. An inflammatory process is linked to the onset of experimental diabetic retinopathy. CD40 deficiency impairs this process and prevents diabetic retinopathy. Using mice with CD40 expression restricted to Müller cells, we identified a mechanism by which Müller cells trigger proinflammatory cytokine expression in myeloid cells. During diabetes, mice with CD40 expressed in Müller cells upregulated retinal tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), intracellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), and nitric oxide synthase (NOS2), developed leukostasis and capillary degeneration. However, CD40 did not cause TNF-α or IL-1β secretion in Müller cells. TNF-α was not detected in Müller cells from diabetic mice with CD40⁺ Müller cells. Rather, TNF-α was upregulated in macrophages/microglia. CD40 ligation in Müller cells triggered phospholipase C-dependent ATP release that caused P2X₇-dependent production of TNF-α and IL-1β by macrophages. P2X₇^-/- mice and mice treated with a P2X₇ inhibitor were protected from diabetes-induced TNF-α, IL-1β, ICAM-1, and NOS2 upregulation. Our studies indicate that CD40 in Müller cells is sufficient to upregulate retinal inflammatory markers and appears to promote experimental diabetic retinopathy and that Müller cells orchestrate inflammatory responses in myeloid cells through a CD40-ATP-P2X₇ pathway.

Effects of P2X7 receptor antagonists on hypoxia-induced neonatal seizures in mice

Neonatal seizures are a common consequence of hypoxic/ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Phenobarbital remains the frontline treatment for neonatal seizures but is often ineffective. The P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is a cell surface-expressed ionotropic receptor activated by high amounts of ATP which may be released during seizures or as a consequence of tissue injury. Here, we explored the role of the P2X7R in a mouse model of neonatal seizures induced by hypoxia. Exposure of postnatal day 7 (P7) mouse pups to global hypoxia (5% O₂ for 15 min) produced electrographically-defined seizures with behavioural correlates that persisted after restitution of normoxia. Expression of the P2X7R showed age-dependent increases in the hippocampus and neocortex of developing mice and was present in human neonatal brain. P2X7R transcript and protein levels were increased 24 h after neonatal hypoxia-induced seizures in mouse pups. EEG recordings in pups determined that injection of the P2X7R antagonist A-438079 (25 mg/kg^-1, intraperitoneal) reduced electrographic seizure number, EEG power and spiking during hypoxia. A-438079 did not reduce post-hypoxia seizures. Caspase-1 processing and molecular markers of inflammation and microglia were reduced in A438079-treated mice. Electrographic seizure-suppressive effects were also observed with a second P2X7R antagonist, JNJ-47965567, in the same model. The present study shows hypoxia-induced seizures alter expression of purinergic and neuroinflammatory signalling components and suggest potential applications but also limitations of the P2X7R as a target for the treatment of HIE and other causes of neonatal seizures.

Repeated Social Defeat, Neuroinflammation, and Behavior: Monocytes Carry the Signal

Mounting evidence indicates that proinflammatory signaling in the brain affects mood, cognition, and behavior and is linked with the etiology of psychiatric disorders, including anxiety and depression. The purpose of this review is to focus on stress-induced bidirectional communication pathways between the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral immune system that converge to promote a heightened neuroinflammatory environment. These communication pathways involve sympathetic outflow from the brain to the peripheral immune system that biases hematopoietic stem cells to differentiate into a glucocorticoid-resistant and primed myeloid lineage immune cell. In conjunction, microglia-dependent neuroinflammatory events promote myeloid cell trafficking to the brain that reinforces stress-related behavior, and is argued to play a role in stress-related psychiatric disorders. We will discuss evidence implicating a key role for endothelial cells that comprise the blood-brain barrier in propagating peripheral-to-central immune communication. We will also discuss novel neuron-to-glia communication pathways involving endogenous danger signals that have recently been argued to facilitate neuroinflammation under various conditions, including stress. These findings help elucidate the complex communication that occurs in response to stress and highlight novel therapeutic targets against the development of stress-related psychiatric disorders.

Inhibiting purinergic P2X7 receptors with the antagonist brilliant blue G is neuroprotective in an intranigral lipopolysaccharide animal model of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder, which is characterized by the selective and progressive death of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra. Increasing evidence suggests that inflammation is important in the degeneration of DA neurons. The purinergic receptor subtype P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is key in the activation and proliferation of microglia. The present study aimed to examine whether inhibiting purinergic P2X7 receptors is neuroprotective in a rat model of PD, specifically via inhibiting p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). In an intranigral lipopolysaccharide (LPS) rat model of PD, immunohistochemical analysis revealed enhanced expression of P2X7R was observed in microglia. The administration of the P2X7R antagonist, brilliant blue G (BBG), reduced activation of the microglia and the loss of nigral DA neurons. In addition, immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis revealed the phosphorylation level of p38 MAPK increased in the microglia of the LPS-injected rats, which was inhibited by BBG treatment. The p38 MAPK inhibitor, SB203580, reduced microglial activation and the loss of DA neurons. Thus, these findings suggested that inhibition of P2X7R by BBG attenuated microglial activation and the loss of substantia nigra DA neurons via p38 MAPK in the rat LPS model of PD.

Involvement of P2X7 receptor in neuronal degeneration triggered by traumatic injury

Axonal injury is a common feature of central nervous system insults that culminates with the death of the affected neurons, and an irreversible loss of function. Inflammation is an important component of the neurodegenerative process, where the microglia plays an important role by releasing proinflammatory factors as well as clearing the death neurons by phagocytosis. Here we have identified the purinergic signaling through the P2X7 receptor as an important component for the neuronal death in a model of optic nerve axotomy. We have found that in P2X7 receptor deficient mice there is a delayed loss of retinal ganglion cells and a decrease of phagocytic microglia at early times points after axotomy. In contralateral to the axotomy retinas, P2X7 receptor controlled the numbers of phagocytic microglia, suggesting that extracellular ATP could act as a danger signal activating the P2X7 receptor in mediating the loss of neurons in contralateral retinas. Finally, we show that intravitreal administration of the selective P2X7 receptor antagonist A438079 also delays axotomy-induced retinal ganglion cell death in retinas from wild type mice. Thus, our work demonstrates that P2X7 receptor signaling is involved in neuronal cell death after axonal injury, being P2X7 receptor antagonism a potential therapeutic strategy.

Ligation of CD40 in Human Müller Cells Induces P2X7 Receptor-Dependent Death of Retinal Endothelial Cells

Purpose

Cluster of differentiation 40 (CD40) is required for retinal capillary degeneration in diabetic mice, a process mediated by the retinal endothelial cells (REC) death. However, CD40 activates prosurvival signals in endothelial cells. The purpose of this study was to identify a mechanism by which CD40 triggers programmed cell death (PCD) of RECs and address this paradox.

Methods

Human RECs and Müller cells were incubated with CD154 and L-N6-(1-Iminoethyl)lysine (L-Nil, nitric oxide synthase 2 inhibitor), α-lipoic acid (inhibitor of oxidative stress), anti-Fas ligand antibody, or A-438079 (P2X7 adenosine triphosphate [ATP] receptor inhibitor). Programmed cell death was analyzed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) or Hoechst/propidium iodide staining. Release of ATP was measured using a luciferase-based assay. Mice were made diabetic with streptozotocin. Expression of P2X7 was assessed by FACS, quantitative PCR, or immunohistochemistry.

Results

Ligation of CD40 in primary RECs did not induce PCD. In contrast, in the presence of primary CD40+ Müller cells, CD40 stimulation caused PCD of RECs that was not impaired by L-Nil, α-lipoic acid, or anti-Fas ligand antibody. We found CD40 did not trigger TNF-α or IL-1β secretion. Primary Müller cells released extracellular ATP in response to CD40 ligation. Inhibition of P2X7 (A-438079) impaired PCD of RECs; CD40 upregulated P2X7 in RECs, making them susceptible to ATP/P2X7-mediated PCD. Diabetic mice upregulated P2X7 in the retina and RECs in a CD40-dependent manner.

Conclusions

Cluster of differentiation 40 induces PCD of RECs through a dual mechanism: ATP release by Müller cells and P2X7 upregulation in RECs. These findings are likely of in vivo relevance since CD40 upregulates P2X7 in RECs in diabetic mice and CD40 is known to be required for retinal capillary degeneration.

Purinergic signaling and the functioning of the nervous system cells

Purinergic signaling in the nervous system has been the focus of a considerable number of studies since the 1970s. The P2X and P2Y receptors are involved in the initiation of purinergic signaling. They are very abundant in the central and peripheral nervous systems, where they are expressed on the surface of neurons and glial cells--microglia, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells and the precursors of the latter two. Their ligands--extracellular nucleotides--are released in the physiological state by astrocytes and neurons forming synaptic connections, and are essential for the proper functioning of nervous system cells. Purinergic signaling plays a crucial role in neuromodulation, neurotransmission, myelination in the CNS and PNS, intercellular communication, the regulation of ramified microglia activity, the induction of the response to damaging agents, the modulation of synaptic activity and other glial cells by astrocytes, and the induction of astrogliosis. Understanding these mechanisms and the fact that P2 receptors and their ligands are involved in the pathogenesis of diseases of the nervous system may help in the design of drugs with different and more effective mechanisms of action.

P2X7 Receptor Signaling Contributes to Sepsis-Associated Brain Dysfunction

Sepsis results in unfettered inflammation, tissue damage, and multiple organ failure. Diffuse brain dysfunction and neurological manifestations secondary to sepsis are termed sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE). Extracellular nucleotides, proinflammatory cytokines, and oxidative stress reactions are associated with delirium and brain injury, and might be linked to the pathophysiology of SAE. P2X7 receptor activation by extracellular ATP leads to maturation and release of IL-1β by immune cells, which stimulates the production of oxygen reactive species. Hence, we sought to investigate the role of purinergic signaling by P2X7 in a model of sepsis. We also determined how this process is regulated by the ectonucleotidase CD39, a scavenger of extracellular nucleotides. Wild type (WT), P2X7 receptor (P2X7^-/-), or CD39 (CD39^-/-) deficient mice underwent sham laparotomy or CLP induced by ligation and puncture of the cecum. We noted that genetic deletion of P2X7 receptor decreased markers of oxidative stress in murine brains 24 h after sepsis induction. The pharmacological inhibition or genetic ablation of the P2X7 receptor attenuated the IL-1β and IL-6 production in the brain from septic mice. Furthermore, our results suggest a crucial role for the enzyme CD39 in limiting P2X7 receptor proinflammatory responses since CD39^-/- septic mice exhibited higher levels of IL-1β in the brain. We have also demonstrated that P2X7 receptor blockade diminished STAT3 activation in cerebral cortex and hippocampus from septic mice, indicating association of ATP-P2X7-STAT3 signaling axis in SAE during sepsis. Our findings suggest that P2X7 receptor might serve as a suitable therapeutic target to ameliorate brain damage in sepsis.

Role of the purinergic signaling in epilepsy

Adenine nucleotides and adenosine are signaling molecules that activate purinergic receptors P1 and P2. Activation of A1 adenosine receptors has an anticonvulsant action, whereas activation of A2A receptors might initiate seizures. Therefore, a significant limitation to the use of A1 receptor agonists as drugs in the CNS might be their peripheral side effects. The anti-epileptic activity of adenosine is related to its increased concentration outside the cell. This increase might result from the inhibition of the equilibrative nucleoside transporters (ENTs). Moreover, the implantation of implants or stem cells into the brain might cause slow and persistent increases in adenosine concentrations in the extracellular spaces of the brain. The role of adenosine in seizure inhibition has been confirmed by results demonstrating that in patients with epilepsy, the adenosine kinase (ADK) present in astrocytes is the only purine-metabolizing enzyme that exhibits increased expression. Increased ADK activity causes intensified phosphorylation of adenosine to 5'-AMP, which therefore lowers the adenosine level in the extracellular spaces. These changes might initiate astrogliosis and epileptogenesis, which are the manifestations of epilepsy. Seizures might induce inflammatory processes and vice versa. Activation of P2X7 receptors causes intensified release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α) and activates metabolic pathways that induce inflammatory processes in the CNS. Therefore, antagonists of P2X7 and the interleukin 1β receptor might be efficient drugs for recurring seizures and prolonged status epilepticus. Inhibitors of ADK would simultaneously inhibit the seizures, prevent the astrogliosis and epileptogenesis processes and prevent the formation of new epileptogenic foci. Therefore, these drugs might become beneficial seizure-suppressing drugs.

Precision Medicine in Multiple Sclerosis: Future of PET Imaging of Inflammation and Reactive Astrocytes

Non-invasive molecular imaging techniques can enhance diagnosis to achieve successful treatment, as well as reveal underlying pathogenic mechanisms in disorders such as multiple sclerosis (MS). The cooperation of advanced multimodal imaging techniques and increased knowledge of the MS disease mechanism allows both monitoring of neuronal network and therapeutic outcome as well as the tools to discover novel therapeutic targets. Diverse imaging modalities provide reliable diagnostic and prognostic platforms to better achieve precision medicine. Traditionally, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been considered the golden standard in MS research and diagnosis. However, positron emission tomography (PET) imaging can provide functional information of molecular biology in detail even prior to anatomic changes, allowing close follow up of disease progression and treatment response. The recent findings support three major neuroinflammation components in MS: astrogliosis, cytokine elevation, and significant changes in specific proteins, which offer a great variety of specific targets for imaging purposes. Regardless of the fact that imaging of astrocyte function is still a young field and in need for development of suitable imaging ligands, recent studies have shown that inflammation and astrocyte activation are related to progression of MS. MS is a complex disease, which requires understanding of disease mechanisms for successful treatment. PET is a precise non-invasive imaging method for biochemical functions and has potential to enhance early and accurate diagnosis for precision therapy of MS. In this review we focus on modulation of different receptor systems and inflammatory aspect of MS, especially on activation of glial cells, and summarize the recent findings of PET imaging in MS and present the most potent targets for new biomarkers with the main focus on experimental MS research.

Interleukin-1β has trophic effects in microglia and its release is mediated by P2X7R pore

Background

Enhanced expression of the purinergic P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) occurs in several neuroinflammatory conditions where increased microglial activation is a co-existing feature. P2X7 receptors can function either as a cation channel or, upon continued stimulation, a large pore. P2X7R-over-expression alone is sufficient to drive microglial activation and proliferation in a process that is P2X7R pore dependent, although the biological signaling pathway through which this occurs remains unclear. Once activated, microglia are known to release a number of bioactive substances that include the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Previous studies have linked P2X7R stimulation to the processing and release of IL-1β, but whether the channel or pore state of P2X7R is predominant in driving IL-1β release is unknown and is a major aim of this study. In addition, we will determine whether IL-1β has trophic effects on surrounding microglia.

Methods

Electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry were used to delineate the sub-cellular localization of P2X7R and IL-1β in primary hippocampal rat cultures. FM1-43 fluorescent dye and confocal microscopy were used to quantify vesicular exocytosis from microglia expressing the pore-forming P2X7R versus a non-pore-forming point mutant, P2X7RG345Y. IL-1β in culture was quantified with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). IL-1β intracellular processing was blocked with inhibition of caspase 1 (with a synthetic peptide antagonist), and its extracellular form was neutralized with an IL-1β neutralizing antibody. Microglial activation and proliferation was quantified immunohistochemically with confocal microscopy.

Results

P2X7R and IL-1β were co-localized in lysosomes. Vesicular exocytosis was higher in microglia expressing the pore-forming P2X7R compared to those expressing the non-pore-forming mutant. There was increased IL-1β in cultures expressing the pore-forming P2X7R, and this proinflammatory cytokine was found to mediate the trophic effects of P2X7R pore in microglia. Inhibition of IL-1β production and function resulted in a significant decrease in P2X7R-mediated microglial activation and proliferation.

Conclusions

IL-1β is a mediator of microglial activation and proliferation, and its release/production is P2X7R pore dependent. Blockade of P2X7R pore could serve as a therapeutic target in alleviating the degree of inflammation seen in neurodegenerative and neoplastic conditions.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12974-016-0621-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Extracellular purines, purinergic receptors and tumor growth

Virtually, all tumor cells as well as all immune cells express plasma membrane receptors for extracellular nucleosides (adenosine) and nucleotides (ATP, ADP, UTP, UDP and sugar UDP). The tumor microenvironment is characterized by an unusually high concentration of ATP and adenosine. Adenosine is a major determinant of the immunosuppressive tumor milieu. Sequential hydrolysis of extracellular ATP catalyzed by CD39 and CD73 is the main pathway for the generation of adenosine in the tumor interstitium. Extracellular ATP and adenosine mold both host and tumor responses. Depending on the specific receptor activated, extracellular purines mediate immunosuppression or immunostimulation on the host side, and growth stimulation or cytotoxicity on the tumor side. Recent progress in this field is providing the key to decode this complex scenario and to lay the basis to harness the potential benefits for therapy. Preclinical data show that targeting the adenosine-generating pathway (that is, CD73) or adenosinergic receptors (that is, A2A) relieves immunosuppresion and potently inhibits tumor growth. On the other hand, growth of experimental tumors is strongly inhibited by targeting the P2X7 ATP-selective receptor of cancer and immune cells. This review summarizes the recent data on the role played by extracellular purines (purinergic signaling) in host-tumor interaction and highlights novel therapeutic options stemming from recent advances in this field.

P2 receptors in cancer progression and metastatic spreading

Tumor microenvironment is nucleoside and nucleotide rich. Adenosine is a key determinant of the highly immunosuppressive tumor interstitium. Extracellular ATP also affects anti-tumor immunity, albeit its effects on host-tumor interaction are incompletely understood. We give here an overview of recent literature covering the role of nucleotide-selective (P2) plasma membrane receptors in tumor growth and progression. P2 receptors are expressed on both host and cancer cells, where depending on the receptor subtype, the inflammatory infiltrate and the tumor cell type they may drive an anti-tumor response or promote tumor progression. It is anticipated that knowledge of the pharmacology, biochemistry and functional activity of the P2 receptors will allow a better understanding of host-tumor interaction and the development of innovative anti-cancer therapy.

Utilizing the Dog Genome in the Search for Novel Candidate Genes Involved in Glioma Development-Genome Wide Association Mapping followed by Targeted Massive Parallel Sequencing Identifies a Strongly Associated Locus

Gliomas are the most common form of malignant primary brain tumors in humans and second most common in dogs, occurring with similar frequencies in both species. Dogs are valuable spontaneous models of human complex diseases including cancers and may provide insight into disease susceptibility and oncogenesis. Several brachycephalic breeds such as Boxer, Bulldog and Boston Terrier have an elevated risk of developing glioma, but others, including Pug and Pekingese, are not at higher risk. To identify glioma-associated genetic susceptibility factors, an across-breed genome-wide association study (GWAS) was performed on 39 dog glioma cases and 141 controls from 25 dog breeds, identifying a genome-wide significant locus on canine chromosome (CFA) 26 (p = 2.8 x 10-8). Targeted re-sequencing of the 3.4 Mb candidate region was performed, followed by genotyping of the 56 SNVs that best fit the association pattern between the re-sequenced cases and controls. We identified three candidate genes that were highly associated with glioma susceptibility: CAMKK2, P2RX7 and DENR. CAMKK2 showed reduced expression in both canine and human brain tumors, and a non-synonymous variant in P2RX7, previously demonstrated to have a 50% decrease in receptor function, was also associated with disease. Thus, one or more of these genes appear to affect glioma susceptibility.

Effects of naringin on learning and memory dysfunction induced by gp120 in rats

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of naringin on learning and memory dysfunction induced by HIV-1-enveloped protein gp120 in rats, and to identify its potential mechanisms of action. Learning and memory ability was evaluated via Morris water maze test, P2X7 receptor and P65 protein expressions in the rat hippocampus were detected by western blot analysis, and P2X7 mRNA expression in the hippocampus was measured by RT-PCR. We also recorded P2X7 agonist BzATP-activated current in the hippocampus via patch clamp technique. The results showed that naringin treatment (30mg/kg/day) markedly decreased the escape latency and target platform errors of rats treated with gp120 (50ng/day), and further, that naringin treatment significantly decreased the expression of P2X7 and P65 protein and P2X7 mRNA in the hippocampus of gp120-treated rats. In addition, naringin treatment reduced BzATP-activated current in the hippocampus of gp120-treated rats. These results altogether demonstrated that naringin can improve gp120-induced learning and memory dysfunction via mechanisms involving the inhibition of P2X7 expression in the hippocampus.

Retinal glial responses to optic nerve crush are attenuated in Bax-deficient mice and modulated by purinergic signaling pathways

Background

Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) soma death is a consequence of optic nerve damage, including in optic neuropathies like glaucoma. The activation of the innate immune network in the retina after nerve damage has been linked to RGC pathology. Since the eye is immune privileged, innate immune functions are the responsibility of the glia, specifically the microglia, astrocytes, and Müller cells that populate the retina. Glial activation, leading to the production of inflammatory cytokines, is a hallmark feature of retinal injury resulting from optic nerve damage and purported to elicit secondary degeneration of RGC somas.

Methods

A mouse model of optic nerve crush (ONC) was used to study retinal glial activation responses. RGC apoptosis was blocked using Bax-deficient mice. Glial activation responses were monitored by quantitative PCR and immunofluorescent labeling in retinal sections of activation markers. ATP signaling pathways were interrogated using P2X receptor agonists and antagonists and Pannexin 1 (Panx1)-deficient mice with RGC-specific deletion.

Results

ONC induced activation of both macroglia and microglia in the retina, and both these responses were dramatically muted if RGC death was blocked by deletion of the Bax gene. Macroglial, but not microglial, activation was modulated by purinergic receptor activation. Release of ATP after optic nerve damage was not mediated by PANX1 channels in RGCs.

Conclusions

RGC death in response to ONC plays a principal stimulatory role in the retinal glial activation response.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12974-016-0558-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Methamphetamine alters microglial immune function through P2X7R signaling

Background

Purinoceptors have emerged as mediators of chronic inflammation and neurodegenerative processes. The ionotropic purinoceptor P2X7 (P2X7R) is known to modulate proinflammatory signaling and integrate neuronal-glial circuits. Evidence of P2X7R involvement in neurodegeneration, chronic pain, and chronic inflammation suggests that purinergic signaling plays a major role in microglial activation during neuroinflammation. In this study, we investigated the effects of methamphetamine (METH) on microglial P2X7R.

Methods

ESdMs were used to evaluate changes in METH-induced P2X7R gene expression via Taqman PCR and protein expression via western blot analysis. Migration and phagocytosis assays were used to evaluate functional changes in ESdMs in response to METH treatment. METH-induced proinflammatory cytokine production following siRNA silencing of P2X7R in ESdMs measured P2X7R-dependent functional changes. In vivo expression of P2X7R and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) was visualized in an escalating METH dose mouse model via immunohistochemical analysis.

Results

Stimulation of ESdMs with METH for 48 h significantly increased P2X7R mRNA (*p < 0.0336) and protein expression (*p < 0.022). Further analysis of P2X7R protein in cellular fractionations revealed increases in membrane P2X7R (*p < 0.05) but decreased cytoplasmic expression after 48 h METH treatment, suggesting protein mobilization from the cytoplasm to the membrane which occurs upon microglial stimulation with METH. Forty-eight hour METH treatment increased microglial migration towards Fractalkine (CX3CL1) compared to control (****p < 0.0001). Migration toward CX3CL1 was confirmed to be P2X7R-dependent through the use of A 438079, a P2X7R-competitive antagonist, which reversed the METH effects (****p < 0.0001). Similarly, 48 h METH treatment increased microglial phagocytosis compared to control (****p < 0.0001), and pretreatment of P2X7R antagonist reduced METH-induced phagocytosis (****p < 0.0001). Silencing the microglial P2X7R decreased TNF-α (*p < 0.0363) and IL-10 production after 48 h of METH treatment. Additionally, our studies demonstrate increased P2X7R and decreased TH expression in the striata of escalating dose METH animal model compared to controls.

Conclusions

This study sheds new light on the functional role of P2X7R in the regulation of microglial effector functions during substance abuse. Our findings suggest that P2X7R plays an important role in METH-induced microglial activation responses. P2X7R antagonists may thus constitute a novel target of therapeutic utility in neuroinflammatory conditions by regulating pathologically activated glial cells in stimulant abuse.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12974-016-0553-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Co-Expression of Wild-Type P2X7R with Gln460Arg Variant Alters Receptor Function

The P2X7 receptor is a member of the P2X family of ligand-gated ion channels. A single-nucleotide polymorphism leading to a glutamine (Gln) by arginine (Arg) substitution at codon 460 of the purinergic P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) has been associated with mood disorders. No change in function (loss or gain) has been described for this SNP so far. Here we show that although the P2X7R-Gln460Arg variant per se is not compromised in its function, co-expression of wild-type P2X7R with P2X7R-Gln460Arg impairs receptor function with respect to calcium influx, channel currents and intracellular signaling in vitro. Moreover, co-immunoprecipitation and FRET studies show that the P2X7R-Gln460Arg variant physically interacts with P2X7R-WT. Specific silencing of either the normal or polymorphic variant rescues the heterozygous loss of function phenotype and restores normal function. The described loss of function due to co-expression, unique for mutations in the P2RX7 gene so far, explains the mechanism by which the P2X7R-Gln460Arg variant affects the normal function of the channel and may represent a mechanism of action for other mutations.

CXCL13 drives spinal astrocyte activation and neuropathic pain via CXCR5

Recent studies have implicated chemokines in microglial activation and pathogenesis of neuropathic pain. C-X-C motif chemokine 13 (CXCL13) is a B lymphocyte chemoattractant that activates CXCR5. Using the spinal nerve ligation (SNL) model of neuropathic pain, we found that CXCL13 was persistently upregulated in spinal cord neurons after SNL, resulting in spinal astrocyte activation via CXCR5 in mice. shRNA-mediated inhibition of CXCL13 in the spinal cord persistently attenuated SNL-induced neuropathic pain. Interestingly, CXCL13 expression was suppressed by miR-186-5p, a microRNA that colocalized with CXCL13 and was downregulated after SNL. Spinal overexpression of miR-186-5p decreased CXCL13 expression, alleviating neuropathic pain. Furthermore, SNL induced CXCR5 expression in spinal astrocytes, and neuropathic pain was abrogated in Cxcr5-/- mice. CXCR5 expression induced by SNL was required for the SNL-induced activation of spinal astrocytes and microglia. Intrathecal injection of CXCL13 was sufficient to induce pain hypersensitivity and astrocyte activation via CXCR5 and ERK. Finally, intrathecal injection of CXCL13-activated astrocytes induced mechanical allodynia in naive mice. Collectively, our findings reveal a neuronal/astrocytic interaction in the spinal cord by which neuronally produced CXCL13 activates astrocytes via CXCR5 to facilitate neuropathic pain. Thus, miR-186-5p and CXCL13/CXCR5-mediated astrocyte signaling may be suitable therapeutic targets for neuropathic pain.

P2X ion channel receptors and inflammation

Neuroinflammation limits tissue damage in response to pathogens or injury and promotes repair. There are two stages of inflammation, initiation and resolution. P2X receptors are gaining attention in relation to immunology and inflammation. The P2X7 receptor in particular appears to be an essential immunomodulatory receptor, although P2X1 and P2X4 receptors also appear to be involved. ATP released from damaged or infected cells causes inflammation by release of inflammatory cytokines via P2X7 receptors and acts as a danger signal by occupying upregulated P2X receptors on immune cells to increase immune responses. The purinergic involvement in inflammation is being explored for the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

microRNA targeting of the P2X7 purinoceptor opposes a contralateral epileptogenic focus in the hippocampus

The ATP-gated ionotropic P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) modulates glial activation, cytokine production and neurotransmitter release following brain injury. Levels of the P2X7R are increased in experimental and human epilepsy but the mechanisms controlling P2X7R expression remain poorly understood. Here we investigated P2X7R responses after focal-onset status epilepticus in mice, comparing changes in the damaged, ipsilateral hippocampus to the spared, contralateral hippocampus. P2X7R-gated inward currents were suppressed in the contralateral hippocampus and P2rx7 mRNA was selectively uploaded into the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC), suggesting microRNA targeting. Analysis of RISC-loaded microRNAs using a high-throughput platform, as well as functional assays, suggested the P2X7R is a target of microRNA-22. Inhibition of microRNA-22 increased P2X7R expression and cytokine levels in the contralateral hippocampus after status epilepticus and resulted in more frequent spontaneous seizures in mice. The major pro-inflammatory and hyperexcitability effects of microRNA-22 silencing were prevented in P2rx7^−/− mice or by treatment with a specific P2X7R antagonist. Finally, in vivo injection of microRNA-22 mimics transiently suppressed spontaneous seizures in mice. The present study supports a role for post-transcriptional regulation of the P2X7R and suggests therapeutic targeting of microRNA-22 may prevent inflammation and development of a secondary epileptogenic focus in the brain.

Purinergic signalling in brain ischemia

Ischemia is a multifactorial pathology characterized by different events evolving in the time. After ischemia a primary damage due to the early massive increase of extracellular glutamate is followed by activation of resident immune cells, i.e microglia, and production or activation of inflammation mediators. Protracted neuroinflammation is now recognized as the predominant mechanism of secondary brain injury progression. Extracellular concentrations of ATP and adenosine in the brain increase dramatically during ischemia in concentrations able to stimulate their respective specific P2 and P1 receptors. Both ATP P2 and adenosine P1 receptor subtypes exert important roles in ischemia. Although adenosine exerts a clear neuroprotective effect through A1 receptors during ischemia, the use of selective A1 agonists is hampered by undesirable peripheral effects. Evidence up to now in literature indicate that A2A receptor antagonists provide protection centrally by reducing excitotoxicity, while agonists at A2A (and possibly also A2B) and A3 receptors provide protection by controlling massive infiltration and neuroinflammation in the hours and days after brain ischemia. Among P2X receptors most evidence indicate that P2X7 receptor contribute to the damage induced by the ischemic insult due to intracellular Ca(2+) loading in central cells and facilitation of glutamate release. Antagonism of P2X7 receptors might represent a new treatment to attenuate brain damage and to promote proliferation and maturation of brain immature resident cells that can promote tissue repair following cerebral ischemia. Among P2Y receptors, antagonists of P2Y12 receptors are of value because of their antiplatelet activity and possibly because of additional anti-inflammatory effects. Moreover strategies that modify adenosine or ATP concentrations at injury sites might be of value to limit damage after ischemia. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Purines in Neurodegeneration and Neuroregeneration'.

Emerging role of P2X7 receptors in CNS health and disease

Purinergic signalling in the brain is becoming an important focus in the study of CNS health and disease. Various purinergic receptors are found to be present in different brain cells in varying extent, which get activated upon binding of ATP or its analogues. Conventionally, ATP was considered only as a major metabolic fuel of the cell but its recognition as a neurotransmitter in early 1970s, brought meaningful insights in neuron glia crosstalk, participating in various physiological functions in the brain. P2X7R, a member of ligand gated purinergic receptor (P2X) family, is gaining attention in the field of neuroscience because of its emerging role in broad spectrum of ageing and age related neurological disorders. The aim of this review is to provide an overview about the structure and function of P2X7R highlighting its unique features which distinguish it from the other members of its family. This review critically analyzes the literature mentioning the details about the agonist and antagonist of the P2X7R. It also emphasizes the advancements in understanding the dual role of P2X7R in brain development and disorders inviting meaningful insights about its involvement in Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Neuropathic pain, Spinal Cord Injury and NeuroAIDS. Exploring the roles of P2X7R in detail is critical to identify its therapeutic potential in the treatment of acute and chronic neurodegenerative diseases. Moreover, this review also helps to raise more interest in the neurobiology of the purinergic receptors and thus providing new avenues for future research.

Purinergic receptors as potential therapeutic targets in Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a progressive loss of memory and cognitive ability and is a serious cause of mortality. Many of the pathological characteristics associated with AD are revealed post-mortem, including amyloid-β plaque deposition, neurofibrillary tangles containing hyperphosphorylated tau proteins and neuronal loss in the hippocampus and cortex. Although several genetic mutations and risk factors have been associated with the disease, the causes remain poorly understood. Study of disease-initiating mechanisms and AD progression in humans is inherently difficult as most available tissue specimens are from late-stages of disease. Therefore, AD researchers rely on in vitro studies and the use of AD animal models where neuroinflammation has been shown to be a major characteristic of AD. Purinergic receptors are a diverse family of proteins consisting of P1 adenosine receptors and P2 nucleotide receptors for ATP, UTP and their metabolites. This family of receptors has been shown to regulate a wide range of physiological and pathophysiological processes, including neuroinflammation, and may contribute to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and AD. Experimental evidence from human AD tissue has suggested that purinergic receptors may play a role in AD progression and studies using selective purinergic receptor agonists and antagonists in vitro and in AD animal models have demonstrated that purinergic receptors represent novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of AD. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Purines in Neurodegeneration and Neuroregeneration'.

Purinergic contribution to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

By signalling through purinergic receptors classified as ionotropic P2X (for ATP) and metabotropic P1 (for adenosine) and P2Y (mainly for ADP, UDP, UTP, ATP), the extracellular nucleotides and their metabolic derivatives originated by extracellular activity of several different ectonucleotidases, are involved in the functioning of the nervous system. Here they exert a central role during physiological processes, but also in the precarious balance between beneficial and noxious events. Indeed, in recent years, the dysregulation of extracellular purinergic homeostasis has been correlated to well-characterized acute and chronic neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases. Among these, we focus our attention on purinergic signalling occurring in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the most common late onset motoneuron disease, characterized by specific loss of motoneurons in brain stem and ventral horns of spinal cord. ALS is a progressive non-cell-autonomous and multifactorial neuroinflammatory disease, whose aetiology and pathological mechanisms are unidentified for most patients and initiate long before any sign or symptom becomes apparent. By combining purinergic with ALS knowledge, in this work we thus present and sustain a novel line of investigation on the purinergic contribution to ALS. In particular, here we recapitulate very early results about P2X4, P2X7 and P2Y6 receptor expression in tissues from ALS animal and cell models and patients, and more recent achievements about purinergic signalling mainly performed in vitro in microglia and lately in astrocytes and motoneurons. We finally highlight how purinergic signalling has progressively evolved up to preclinical trials, to the point of deserving now full consideration with reference to ALS. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Purines in Neurodegeneration and Neuroregeneration'.

The Role of Ion Channels in Microglial Activation and Proliferation - A Complex Interplay between Ligand-Gated Ion Channels, K(+) Channels, and Intracellular Ca(2.)

Microglia are often referred to as the immune cells of the brain. They are most definitely involved in immune responses to invading pathogens and inflammatory responses to tissue damage. However, recent results suggest microglia are vital for normal functioning of the brain. Neuroinflammation, as well as more subtle changes, in microglial function has been implicated in the pathogenesis of many brain diseases and disorders. Upon sensing alterations in their local environment, microglia change their shape and release factors that can modify the excitability of surrounding neurons. During neuroinflammation, microglia proliferate and release NO, reactive oxygen species, cytokines and chemokines. If inflammation resolves then their numbers normalize again via apoptosis. Microglia express a wide array of ion channels and different types are implicated in all of the cellular processes listed above. Modulation of microglial ion channels has shown great promise as a therapeutic strategy in several brain disorders. In this review, we discuss recent advances in our knowledge of microglial ion channels and their roles in responses of microglia to changes in the extracellular milieu.

Purinergic mechanisms in neuroinflammation: An update from molecules to behavior

The principle functions of neuroinflammation are to limit tissue damage and promote tissue repair in response to pathogens or injury. While neuroinflammation has utility, pathophysiological inflammatory responses, to some extent, underlie almost all neuropathology. Understanding the mechanisms that control the three stages of inflammation (initiation, propagation and resolution) is therefore of critical importance for developing treatments for diseases of the central nervous system. The purinergic signaling system, involving adenosine, ATP and other purines, plus a host of P1 and P2 receptor subtypes, controls inflammatory responses in complex ways. Activation of the inflammasome, leading to release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, activation and migration of microglia and altered astroglial function are key regulators of the neuroinflammatory response. Here, we review the role of P1 and P2 receptors in mediating these processes and examine their contribution to disorders of the nervous system. Firstly, we give an overview of the concept of neuroinflammation. We then discuss the contribution of P2X, P2Y and P1 receptors to the underlying processes, including a discussion of cross-talk between these different pathways. Finally, we give an overview of the current understanding of purinergic contributions to neuroinflammation in the context of specific disorders of the central nervous system, with special emphasis on neuropsychiatric disorders, characterized by chronic low grade inflammation or maternal inflammation. An understanding of the important purinergic contribution to neuroinflammation underlying neuropathology is likely to be a necessary step towards the development of effective interventions. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Purines in Neurodegeneration and Neuroregeneration'.

Nucleotides in neuroregeneration and neuroprotection

Brain injury generates the release of a multitude of factors including extracellular nucleotides, which exhibit bi-functional properties and contribute to both detrimental actions in the acute phase and also protective and reparative actions in the later recovery phase to allow neuroregeneration. A promising strategy toward restoration of neuronal function is based on activation of endogenous adult neural stem/progenitor cells. The implication of purinergic signaling in stem cell biology, including regulation of proliferation, differentiation, and cell death has become evident in the last decade. In this regard, current strategies of acute transplantation of ependymal stem/progenitor cells after spinal cord injury restore altered expression of P2X4 and P2X7 receptors and improve functional locomotor recovery. The expression of both receptors is transcriptionally regulated by Sp1 factor, which plays a key role in the startup of the transcription machinery to induce regeneration-associated genes expression. Finally, general signaling pathways triggered by nucleotide receptors in neuronal populations converge on several intracellular kinases, such as PI3K/Akt, GSK3 and ERK1,2, as well as the Nrf-2/heme oxigenase-1 axis, which specifically link them to neuroprotection. In this regard, regulation of dual specificity protein phosphatases can become novel mechanism of actions for nucleotide receptors that associate them to cell homeostasis regulation. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Purines in Neurodegeneration and Neuroregeneration'.

Mechanism of microglia neuroprotection: Involvement of P2X7, TNFα, and valproic acid

Recently, we have demonstrated that ramified microglia are neuroprotective in N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-induced excitotoxicity in organotypic hippocampal slice cultures (OHSCs). The present study aimed to elucidate the underlying neuron-glia communication mechanism. It is shown here that pretreatment of OHSC with high concentrations of adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) reduced NMDA-induced neuronal death only in presence of microglia. Specific agonists and antagonists identified the P2X7 receptor as neuroprotective receptor which was confirmed by absence of ATP-dependent neuroprotection in P2X7-deficient OHSC. Microglia replenished chimeric OHSC consisting of wild-type tissue replenished with P2X7-deficient microglia confirmed the involvement of microglial P2X7 receptor in neuroprotection. Stimulation of P2X7 in primary microglia induced tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) release and blocking TNFα by a neutralizing antibody in OHSC abolished neuroprotection by ATP. OHSC from TNFα-deficient mice show increased exicitoxicity and activation of P2X7 did not rescue neuronal survival in the absence of TNFα. The neuroprotective effect of valproic acid (VPA) was strictly dependent on the presence of microglia and was mediated by upregulation of P2X7 in the cells. The present study demonstrates that microglia-mediated neuroprotection depends on ATP-activated purine receptor P2X7 and induction of TNFα release. This neuroprotective pathway was strengthened by VPA elucidating a novel mechanism for the neuroprotective function of VPA.

Purinergic neurone-glia signalling in cognitive-related pathologies

Neuroglia, represented by astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, NG glia and microglia are homeostatic, myelinating and defensive cells of the brain. Neuroglial cells express various combinations of purinoceptors, which contribute to multiple intercellular signalling pathways in the healthy and diseased nervous system. Neurological diseases are invariably associated with profound neuroglial remodelling, which is manifest by reactive gliosis, pathological remodelling and functional atrophy of various types of glial cells. Gliopathology is disease and region specific and produces multiple glial phenotypes that may be neuroprotective or neurotoxic. In this review we summarise recent knowledge on the role of glial purinergic signalling in cognitive-related neurological diseases. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Purines in Neurodegeneration and Neuroregeneration'.

P2X purinoceptors as a link between hyperexcitability and neuroinflammation in status epilepticus

There remains a need for more efficacious treatments for status epilepticus. Prolonged seizures result in the release of ATP from cells which activates the P2 class of ionotropic and metabotropic purinoceptors. The P2X receptors gate depolarizing sodium and calcium entry and are expressed by both neurons and glia throughout the brain, and a number of subtypes are upregulated after status epilepticus. Recent studies have explored the in vivo effects of targeting ATP-gated P2X receptors in preclinical models of status epilepticus, with particular focus on the P2X7 receptor (P2X7R). The P2X7R mediates microglial activation and the release of the proepileptogenic inflammatory cytokine interleukin 1β. The receptor may also directly modulate neurotransmission and gliotransmission and promote the recruitment of immune cells into brain parenchyma. Data from our group and collaborators show that status epilepticus produced by intraamygdala microinjection of kainic acid increases P2X7R expression in the hippocampus and neocortex of mice. Antagonism of the P2X7R in the model reduced seizure severity, microglial activation and interleukin 1β release, and neuronal injury. Coadministration of a P2X7R antagonist with a benzodiazepine also provided seizure suppression in a model of drug-refractory status epilepticus when either treatment alone was minimally effective. More recently, we showed that status epilepticus in immature rats is also reduced by P2X7R antagonism. Together, these findings suggest that P2X receptors may be novel targets for seizure control and interruption of neuroinflammation after status epilepticus. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Status Epilepticus".

Neuroinflammation in Glaucoma and Optic Nerve Damage

Glaucoma is a group of optic neuropathies characterized by the degeneration of retinal ganglion cell axons and somas, ultimately preventing light signals in the retina from reaching the brain. Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in the world, and treatment options for patients remain limited and minimally efficacious. A number of mechanisms have been linked to glaucomatous pathophysiology. A leading role is now attributed to neuroinflammatory conditions generated by the resident innate immune cells in the optic nerve and retina. Since the eye is immune privileged, the adaptation of these innate immune cells, termed glia, is crucial following trauma. In this chapter, we discuss the mechanisms associated with normal glial function in a healthy eye, and how changes in glial activation can contribute to the process of glaucomatous neurodegeneration in both the optic nerve and retina.

Understanding the role of P2X7 in affective disorders-are glial cells the major players?

Pathophysiology associated with several psychiatric disorders has been linked to inflammatory biomarkers. This has generated a theory of major depressive disorders as an inflammatory disease. The idea of pro-inflammatory cytokines altering behavior is now well accepted however many questions remain. Microglia can produce a plethora of inflammatory cytokines and these cells appear to be critical in the link between inflammatory changes and depressive disorders. Microglia play a known role in sickness behavior which has many components of depressive-like behavior such as social withdrawal, sleep alterations, and anorexia. Numerous candidate genes have been identified for psychiatric disorders in the last decade. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the human P2X7 gene have been linked to bipolar disorder, depression, and to the severity of depressive symptoms. P2X7 is a ligand-gated cation channel expressed on microglia with lower levels found on astrocytes and on some neuronal populations. In microglia P2X7 is a major regulator of pro-inflammatory cytokines of the interleukin-1 family. Genetic deletion of P2X7 in mice is protective for depressive behavior in addition to inflammatory responses. P2X7(-/-) mice have been shown to demonstrate anti-depressive-like behavior in forced swim and tail suspension behavioral tests and stressor-induced behavioral responses were blunted. Both neurochemical (norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine) and inflammatory changes have been observed in the brains of P2X7(-/-) mice. This review will discuss the recent evidence for involvement of P2X7 in the pathophysiology of depressive disorders and propose mechanisms by which altered signaling through this ion channel may affect the inflammatory state of the brain.

P2X7 receptors and Fyn kinase mediate ATP-induced oligodendrocyte progenitor cell migration

Recruitment of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) to the lesions is the most important event for remyelination after central nervous system (CNS) injury or in demyelinating diseases. However, the underlying molecular mechanism is not fully understood. In the present study, we found high concentrations of ATP could increase the number of migrating OPCs in vitro, while after pretreatment with oxidized ATP (a P2X7 receptor antagonist), the promotive effect was attenuated. The promotive effect of 2'(3')-O-(4-benzoylbenzoyl) adenosine 5'-triphosphate (BzATP) (a P2X7 receptor agonist) was more potent than ATP. After incubation with BzATP, the activity of Fyn, one member of the Src family of kinases, was enhanced. Moreover, the interaction between P2X7 and Fyn was identified by co-immunoprecipitation. After blocking the activity of Fyn or down-regulating the expression of Fyn, the migration of OPCs induced by BzATP was inhibited. These data indicate that P2X7 receptors/Fyn may mediate ATP-induced OPC migration under pathological conditions.

Functional characterization of mutants in the transmembrane domains of the rat P2X7 receptor that regulate pore conductivity and agonist sensitivity

In the sustained presence of agonist, the opening of P2X7R channel is followed by pore dilatation, which causes an increase in its permeability to larger organic cations, accompanied by receptor sensitization. To explore the molecular mechanisms by which the conductivity and sensitivity are increased, we analyzed the electrophysiological properties and YO-PRO-1 uptake of selected alanine mutants in the first and second transmembrane domains of the rat P2X7R. Substitution of residues Y40, F43, G338, and D352 with alanine reduced membrane trafficking, and the D352A was practically non-functional. The Y40A and F43A mutants that were expressed in the membrane lacked pore dilation ability. Moreover, the Y40A and Y40F displayed desensitization, whereas the Y40W partially recovered receptor function. The G338A/S mutations favored the open state of the channel and displayed instantaneous permeability to larger organic cations. The G338P was non-functional. The L341A and G345A displayed normal trafficking, current amplitude, and sensitization, but both mutations resulted in a decreased pore formation and dye uptake. These results showed that the increase in P2X7R conductivity and sensitivity is critically dependent on residues Y40 and F43 in the TM1 domain and that the region located at the intersection of TM2 helices controls the rate of large pore opening. We investigated the mechanism of the proapoptotic receptor P2X7R's large pore opening and its sensitization. We found that aromatic residues in the upper part of the first transmembrane domain (TM1) are critical for both the P2X7R channel pore opening and receptor sensitization, and residues located at or below the intersection of the second transmembrane domains (TM2) control the rate of pore opening. These findings identify new residues involved in pore formation of P2X7R.

The P2X7 receptor channel: recent developments and the use of P2X7 antagonists in models of disease

The P2X7 receptor is a trimeric ATP-gated cation channel found predominantly, but not exclusively, on immune cells. P2X7 activation results in a number of downstream events, including the release of proinflammatory mediators and cell death and proliferation. As such, P2X7 plays important roles in various inflammatory, immune, neurologic and musculoskeletal disorders. This review focuses on the use of P2X7 antagonists in rodent models of neurologic disease and injury, inflammation, and musculoskeletal and other disorders. The cloning and characterization of human, rat, mouse, guinea pig, dog, and Rhesus macaque P2X7, as well as recent observations regarding the gating and permeability of P2X7, are discussed. Furthermore, this review discusses polymorphic and splice variants of P2X7, as well as the generation and use of P2X7 knockout mice. Recent evidence for emerging signaling pathways downstream of P2X7 activation and the growing list of negative and positive modulators of P2X7 activation and expression are also described. In addition, the use of P2X7 antagonists in numerous rodent models of disease is extensively summarized. Finally, the use of P2X7 antagonists in clinical trials in humans and future directions exploring P2X7 as a therapeutic target are described.