201
|
Tsai PT, Rudolph S, Guo C, Ellegood J, Gibson JM, Schaeffer SM, Mogavero J, Lerch JP, Regehr W, Sahin M. Sensitive Periods for Cerebellar-Mediated Autistic-like Behaviors. Cell Rep 2018; 25:357-367.e4. [PMID: 30304677 PMCID: PMC6226056 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.09.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite a prevalence exceeding 1%, mechanisms underlying autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are poorly understood, and targeted therapies and guiding parameters are urgently needed. We recently demonstrated that cerebellar dysfunction is sufficient to generate autistic-like behaviors in a mouse model of tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Here, using the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR)-specific inhibitor rapamycin, we define distinct sensitive periods for treatment of autistic-like behaviors with sensitive periods extending into adulthood for social behaviors. We identify cellular and electrophysiological parameters that may contribute to behavioral rescue, with rescue of Purkinje cell survival and excitability corresponding to social behavioral rescue. In addition, using anatomic and diffusion-based MRI, we identify structural changes in cerebellar domains implicated in ASD that correlate with sensitive periods of specific autism-like behaviors. These findings thus not only define treatment parameters into adulthood, but also support a mechanistic basis for the targeted rescue of autism-related behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter T Tsai
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | | | - Chong Guo
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jacob Ellegood
- Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Kids, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jennifer M Gibson
- Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Samantha M Schaeffer
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jazmin Mogavero
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jason P Lerch
- Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Kids, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Wade Regehr
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mustafa Sahin
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
202
|
PCB 95 promotes dendritic growth in primary rat hippocampal neurons via mTOR-dependent mechanisms. Arch Toxicol 2018; 92:3163-3173. [PMID: 30132043 PMCID: PMC6162988 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-018-2285-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and in particular non-dioxin-like (NDL) congeners, continue to pose a significant risk to the developing nervous system. PCB 95, a prevalent NDL congener in the human chemosphere, promotes dendritic growth in rodent primary neurons by activating calcium-dependent transcriptional mechanisms that normally function to link activity to dendritic growth. Activity-dependent dendritic growth is also mediated by calcium-dependent translational mechanisms involving mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), suggesting that the dendrite-promoting activity of PCB 95 may also involve mTOR signaling. Here, we test this hypothesis using primary neuron-glia co-cultures derived from the hippocampi of postnatal day 0 Sprague Dawley rats. PCB 95 (1 nM) activated mTOR in hippocampal cultures as evidenced by increased phosphorylation of mTOR at ser2448. Pharmacologic inhibition of mTOR signaling using rapamycin (20 nM), FK506 (5 nM), or 4EGI-1 (1 µM), and siRNA knockdown of mTOR, or the mTOR complex binding proteins, raptor or rictor, blocked PCB 95-induced dendritic growth. These data identify mTOR activation as a novel molecular mechanism contributing to the effects of PCB 95 on dendritic arborization. In light of clinical data linking gain-of-function mutations in mTOR signaling to neurodevelopmental disorders, our findings suggest that mTOR signaling may represent a convergence point for gene by environment interactions that confer risk for adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes.
Collapse
|
203
|
Monteggia LM, Heimer H, Nestler EJ. Meeting Report: Can We Make Animal Models of Human Mental Illness? Biol Psychiatry 2018; 84:542-545. [PMID: 29606372 PMCID: PMC6269650 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2018.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2017] [Revised: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Modeling aspects of the human condition in animals has provided invaluable information on the physiology of all organ systems and has assisted in the development of virtually all new therapeutics. Research in cardiovascular disease, cancer, immunology, and other disciplines has benefited substantially from the availability of animal models that capture aspects of specific human diseases and that have been used effectively to advance new treatments. By comparison, animal models for neurological and psychiatric disorders have faced several unique obstacles. This paper highlights topics covered in a recent Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory meeting charged with examining the status of animal models for mental illness. The consensus of the conference is that despite the difficulties inherent with modeling brain disorders in animals, when used judiciously-fully cognizant that models of specific behavioral or biological aspects cannot completely recapitulate the human disorder-animal research is crucial for advancing our understanding of neuropsychiatric disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M. Monteggia
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Hakon Heimer
- Banbury Center, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor
| | - Eric J. Nestler
- Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| |
Collapse
|
204
|
Endo R, Takashima N, Nekooki-Machida Y, Komi Y, Hui KKW, Takao M, Akatsu H, Murayama S, Sawa A, Tanaka M. TAR DNA-Binding Protein 43 and Disrupted in Schizophrenia 1 Coaggregation Disrupts Dendritic Local Translation and Mental Function in Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration. Biol Psychiatry 2018; 84:509-521. [PMID: 29752072 PMCID: PMC6123275 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2018.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurodegenerative diseases involving protein aggregation often accompany psychiatric symptoms. Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) associated with TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) aggregation is characterized by progressive neuronal atrophy in frontal and temporal lobes of cerebral cortex. Furthermore, patients with FTLD display mental dysfunction in multiple behavioral dimensions. Nevertheless, their molecular origin for psychiatric symptoms remains unclear. METHODS In FTLD neurons and mouse models with TDP-43 aggregates, we examined coaggregation between TDP-43 and disrupted in schizophrenia 1 (DISC1), a key player in the pathology of mental conditions and its effects on local translation in dendrites and psychiatric behaviors. The protein coaggregation and the expression level of synaptic proteins were also investigated with postmortem brains from patients with FTLD (n = 6). RESULTS We found cytosolic TDP-43/DISC1 coaggregates in brains of both FTLD mouse model and patients with FTLD. At the mechanistic levels, the TDP-43/DISC1 coaggregates disrupted the activity-dependent dendritic local translation through impairment of translation initiation and, in turn, reduced synaptic protein expression. Behavioral deficits detected in FTLD model mice were ameliorated by exogenous DISC1 expression. CONCLUSIONS Our findings reveal a novel role of the aggregate-prone TDP-43/DISC1 protein complex in regulating local translation, which affects aberrant behaviors relevant to multiple psychiatric dimensions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Endo
- Laboratory for Protein Conformation Diseases, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Japan
| | - Noriko Takashima
- Laboratory for Protein Conformation Diseases, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Japan
| | - Yoko Nekooki-Machida
- Laboratory for Protein Conformation Diseases, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Japan
| | - Yusuke Komi
- Laboratory for Protein Conformation Diseases, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Japan
| | - Kelvin Kai-Wan Hui
- Laboratory for Protein Conformation Diseases, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Japan
| | - Masaki Takao
- Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital and Institute of Gerontology, Japan,Department of Neurology, Saitama Medical University, Japan
| | - Hiroyasu Akatsu
- Choju Medical Institute, Fukushimura Hospital, Japan,Department of Medicine for Aging in Place and Community-Based Medical Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Shigeo Murayama
- Tokyo Metropolitan Geriatric Hospital and Institute of Gerontology, Japan
| | - Akira Sawa
- Department of Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD.
| | - Motomasa Tanaka
- Laboratory for Protein Conformation Diseases, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, Wako, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
205
|
Lainez NM, Jonak CR, Nair MG, Ethell IM, Wilson EH, Carson MJ, Coss D. Diet-Induced Obesity Elicits Macrophage Infiltration and Reduction in Spine Density in the Hypothalami of Male but Not Female Mice. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1992. [PMID: 30254630 PMCID: PMC6141693 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing prevalence in obesity has become a significant public concern. C57BL/6J mice are prone to diet-induced obesity (DIO) when fed high-fat diet (HFD), and develop chronic inflammation and metabolic syndrome, making them a good model to analyze mechanisms whereby obesity elicits pathologies. DIO mice demonstrated profound sex differences in response to HFD with respect to inflammation and hypothalamic function. First, we determined that males are prone to DIO, while females are resistant. Ovariectomized females, on the other hand, are susceptible to DIO, implying protection by ovarian hormones. Males, but not females, exhibit changes in hypothalamic neuropeptide expression. Surprisingly, ovariectomized females remain resistant to neuroendocrine changes, showing that ovarian hormones are not necessary for protection. Second, obese mice exhibit sex differences in DIO-induced inflammation. Microglial activation and peripheral macrophage infiltration is seen in the hypothalami of males, while females are protected from the increase in inflammatory cytokines and do not exhibit microglia morphology changes nor monocyte-derived macrophage infiltration, regardless of the presence of ovarian hormones. Strikingly, the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 is increased in the hypothalami of females but not males. Third, this study posits a potential mechanism of obesity-induced impairment of hypothalamic function whereby obese males exhibit reduced levels of synaptic proteins in the hypothalamus and fewer spines in GnRH neurons, located in the areas exhibiting macrophage infiltration. Our studies suggest that inflammation-induced synaptic remodeling is potentially responsible for hypothalamic impairment that may contribute to diminished levels of gonadotropin hormones, testosterone, and sperm numbers, which we observe and corresponds to the observations in obese humans. Taken together, our data implicate neuro-immune mechanisms underlying sex-specific differences in obesity-induced impairment of the hypothalamic function with potential consequences for reproduction and fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nancy M Lainez
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Carrie R Jonak
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Meera G Nair
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Iryna M Ethell
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Emma H Wilson
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Monica J Carson
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Djurdjica Coss
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
206
|
Cheng Y, Li Z, Manupipatpong S, Lin L, Li X, Xu T, Jiang YH, Shu Q, Wu H, Jin P. 5-Hydroxymethylcytosine alterations in the human postmortem brains of autism spectrum disorder. Hum Mol Genet 2018; 27:2955-2964. [PMID: 29790956 PMCID: PMC6097011 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddy193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 05/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) include a group of syndromes characterized by impaired language, social and communication skills, in addition to restrictive behaviors or stereotypes. However, with a prevalence of 1.5% in developed countries and high comorbidity rates, no clear underlying mechanism that unifies the heterogeneous phenotypes of ASD exists. 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) is highly enriched in the brain and recognized as an essential epigenetic mark in developmental and brain disorders. To explore the role of 5hmC in ASD, we used the genomic DNA isolated from the postmortem cerebellum of both ASD patients and age-matched controls to profile genome-wide distribution of 5hmC. We identified 797 age-dependent differentially hydroxymethylated regions (DhMRs) in the young group (age ≤ 18), while no significant DhMR was identified in the groups over 18 years of age. Pathway and disease association analyses demonstrated that the intragenic DhMRs were in the genes involved in cell-cell communication and neurological disorders. Also, we saw significant 5hmC changes in the larger group of psychiatric genes. Interestingly, we found that the predicted cis functions of non-coding intergenic DhMRs strikingly associate with ASD and intellectual disorders. A significant fraction of intergenic DhMRs overlapped with topologically associating domains. These results together suggest that 5hmC alteration is associated with ASD, particularly in the early development stage, and could contribute to the pathogenesis of ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Cheng
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Ziyi Li
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Sasicha Manupipatpong
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Li Lin
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Xuekun Li
- The Children’s Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310029, China
| | - Tianlei Xu
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Yong-Hui Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, University Program in Genetics and Genomics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, University Program in Genetics and Genomics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Qiang Shu
- The Children’s Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310029, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Peng Jin
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| |
Collapse
|
207
|
Tangsuwansri C, Saeliw T, Thongkorn S, Chonchaiya W, Suphapeetiporn K, Mutirangura A, Tencomnao T, Hu VW, Sarachana T. Investigation of epigenetic regulatory networks associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by integrated global LINE-1 methylation and gene expression profiling analyses. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0201071. [PMID: 30036398 PMCID: PMC6056057 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0201071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The exact cause and mechanisms underlying the pathobiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remain unclear. Dysregulation of long interspersed element-1 (LINE-1) has been reported in the brains of ASD-like mutant mice and ASD brain tissues. However, the role and methylation of LINE-1 in individuals with ASD remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether LINE-1 insertion is associated with differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and to assess LINE-1 methylation in ASD. METHODS To identify DEGs associated with LINE-1 in ASD, we reanalyzed previously published transcriptome profiles and overlapped them with the list of LINE-1-containing genes from the TranspoGene database. An Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) of DEGs associated with LINE-1 insertion was conducted. DNA methylation of LINE-1 was assessed via combined bisulfite restriction analysis (COBRA) of lymphoblastoid cell lines from ASD individuals and unaffected individuals, and the methylation levels were correlated with the expression levels of LINE-1 and two LINE-1-inserted DEGs, C1orf27 and ARMC8. RESULTS We found that LINE-1 insertion was significantly associated with DEGs in ASD. The IPA showed that LINE-1-inserted DEGs were associated with ASD-related mechanisms, including sex hormone receptor signaling and axon guidance signaling. Moreover, we observed that the LINE-1 methylation level was significantly reduced in lymphoblastoid cell lines from ASD individuals with severe language impairment and was inversely correlated with the transcript level. The methylation level of LINE-1 was also correlated with the expression of the LINE-1-inserted DEG C1orf27 but not ARMC8. CONCLUSIONS In ASD individuals with severe language impairment, LINE-1 methylation was reduced and correlated with the expression levels of LINE-1 and the LINE-1-inserted DEG C1orf27. Our findings highlight the association of LINE-1 with DEGs in ASD blood samples and warrant further investigation. The molecular mechanisms of LINE-1 and the effects of its methylation in ASD pathobiology deserve further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chayanin Tangsuwansri
- M.Sc. Program in Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thanit Saeliw
- M.Sc. Program in Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Surangrat Thongkorn
- M.Sc. Program in Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Weerasak Chonchaiya
- Division of Growth and Development and Maximizing Thai Children’s Developmental Potential Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kanya Suphapeetiporn
- Center of Excellence for Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Excellence Center for Medical Genetics, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Apiwat Mutirangura
- Center of Excellence in Molecular Genetics of Cancer and Human Diseases, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tewin Tencomnao
- Age-related Inflammation and Degeneration Research Unit, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Valerie Wailin Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Tewarit Sarachana
- Age-related Inflammation and Degeneration Research Unit, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
208
|
Furlanis E, Scheiffele P. Regulation of Neuronal Differentiation, Function, and Plasticity by Alternative Splicing. Annu Rev Cell Dev Biol 2018; 34:451-469. [PMID: 30028642 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-cellbio-100617-062826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Posttranscriptional mechanisms provide powerful means to expand the coding power of genomes. In nervous systems, alternative splicing has emerged as a fundamental mechanism not only for the diversification of protein isoforms but also for the spatiotemporal control of transcripts. Thus, alternative splicing programs play instructive roles in the development of neuronal cell type-specific properties, neuronal growth, self-recognition, synapse specification, and neuronal network function. Here we discuss the most recent genome-wide efforts on mapping RNA codes and RNA-binding proteins for neuronal alternative splicing regulation. We illustrate how alternative splicing shapes key steps of neuronal development, neuronal maturation, and synaptic properties. Finally, we highlight efforts to dissect the spatiotemporal dynamics of alternative splicing and their potential contribution to neuronal plasticity and the mature nervous system.
Collapse
|
209
|
McGowan H, Mirabella VR, Hamod A, Karakhanyan A, Mlynaryk N, Moore JC, Tischfield JA, Hart RP, Pang ZP. hsa-let-7c miRNA Regulates Synaptic and Neuronal Function in Human Neurons. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2018; 10:19. [PMID: 30065644 PMCID: PMC6056636 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2018.00019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNA, including microRNA (miRNA) serves critical regulatory functions in the developing brain. The let-7 family of miRNAs has been shown to regulate neuronal differentiation, neural subtype specification, and synapse formation in animal models. However, the regulatory role of human let-7c (hsa-let-7c) in human neuronal development has yet to be examined. Let-7c is encoded on chromosome 21 in humans and therefore may be overexpressed in human brains in Trisomy 21 (T21), a complex neurodevelopmental disorder. Here, we employ recent developments in stem cell biology to show that hsa-let-7c mediates important regulatory epigenetic functions that control the development and functional activity of human induced neuronal cells (iNs). We show that overexpression of hsa-let-7c in human iNs derived from induced pluripotent stem (iPS), as well as embryonic stem (ES), cells leads to morphological as well as functional deficits including impaired neuronal morphologic development, synapse formation and synaptic strength, as well as a marked reduction of neuronal excitability. Importantly, we have assessed these findings over three independent genetic backgrounds, showing that some of these effects are subject to influence by background genetic variability with the most robust and reproducible effect being a striking reduction in spontaneous neural firing. Collectively, these results suggest an important function for let-7 family miRNAs in regulation of human neuronal development and raise implications for understanding the complex molecular etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as T21, where let-7c gene dosage is increased.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heather McGowan
- Child Health Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Vincent R. Mirabella
- Child Health Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Aula Hamod
- Child Health Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Aziz Karakhanyan
- Child Health Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Nicole Mlynaryk
- Child Health Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Jennifer C. Moore
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Jay A. Tischfield
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Ronald P. Hart
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Zhiping P. Pang
- Child Health Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| |
Collapse
|
210
|
Gupta P, Uner OE, Nayak S, Grant GR, Kalb RG. SAP97 regulates behavior and expression of schizophrenia risk enriched gene sets in mouse hippocampus. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0200477. [PMID: 29995933 PMCID: PMC6040763 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0200477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Synapse associated protein of 97KDa (SAP97) belongs to a family of scaffolding proteins, the membrane-associated guanylate kinases (MAGUKs), that are highly enriched in the postsynaptic density of synapses and play an important role in organizing protein complexes necessary for synaptic development and plasticity. The Dlg-MAGUK family of proteins are structurally very similar, and an effort has been made to parse apart the unique function of each Dlg-MAGUK protein by characterization of knockout mice. Knockout mice have been generated and characterized for PSD-95, PSD-93, and SAP102, however SAP97 knockout mice have been impossible to study because the SAP97 null mice die soon after birth due to a craniofacial defect. We studied the transcriptomic and behavioral consequences of a brain-specific conditional knockout of SAP97 (SAP97-cKO). RNA sequencing from hippocampi from control and SAP97-cKO male animals identified 67 SAP97 regulated transcripts. As large-scale genetic studies have implicated MAGUKs in neuropsychiatric disorders such as intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorders, and schizophrenia (SCZ), we analyzed our differentially expressed gene (DEG) set for enrichment of disease risk-associated genes, and found our DEG set to be specifically enriched for SCZ-related genes. Subjecting SAP97-cKO mice to a battery of behavioral tests revealed a subtle male-specific cognitive deficit and female-specific motor deficit, while other behaviors were largely unaffected. These data suggest that loss of SAP97 may have a modest contribution to organismal behavior. The SAP97-cKO mouse serves as a stepping stone for understanding the unique role of SAP97 in biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Preetika Gupta
- Neuroscience Graduate Group, Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Ogul E. Uner
- School of Arts and Sciences, Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Soumyashant Nayak
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Gregory R. Grant
- Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Genetics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Robert G. Kalb
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
211
|
Defective Synapse Maturation and Enhanced Synaptic Plasticity in Shank2 Δex7 -/- Mice. eNeuro 2018; 5:eN-NWR-0398-17. [PMID: 30023428 PMCID: PMC6049608 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0398-17.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Revised: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are neurodevelopmental disorders with a strong genetic etiology. Since mutations in human SHANK genes have been found in patients with autism, genetic mouse models are used for a mechanistic understanding of ASDs and the development of therapeutic strategies. SHANKs are scaffold proteins in the postsynaptic density of mammalian excitatory synapses with proposed functions in synaptogenesis, regulation of dendritic spine morphology, and instruction of structural synaptic plasticity. In contrast to all studies so far on the function of SHANK proteins, we have previously observed enhanced synaptic plasticity in Shank2 Δex7−/− mice. In a series of experiments, we now reproduce these results, further explore the synaptic phenotype, and directly compare our model to the independently generated Shank2 Δex6-7−/− mice. Minimal stimulation experiments reveal that Shank2 Δex7−/− mice possess an excessive fraction of silent (i.e., α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid, short, AMPA receptor lacking) synapses. The synaptic maturation deficit emerges during the third postnatal week and constitutes a plausible mechanistic explanation for the mutants’ increased capacity for long-term potentiation, both in vivo and in vitro. A direct comparison with Shank2 Δex6-7−/− mice adds weight to the hypothesis that both mouse models show a different set of synaptic phenotypes, possibly due to differences in their genetic background. These findings add to the diversity of synaptic phenotypes in neurodevelopmental disorders and further support the supposed existence of “modifier genes” in the expression and inheritance of ASDs.
Collapse
|
212
|
Pharmacological Inhibition of ERK Signaling Rescues Pathophysiology and Behavioral Phenotype Associated with 16p11.2 Chromosomal Deletion in Mice. J Neurosci 2018; 38:6640-6652. [PMID: 29934348 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0515-17.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The human 16p11.2 microdeletion is one of the most common gene copy number variations linked to autism, but the pathophysiology associated with this chromosomal abnormality is largely unknown. The 593 kb deletion contains the ERK1 gene and other genes that converge onto the ERK/MAP kinase pathway. Perturbations in ERK signaling are linked to a group of related neurodevelopmental disorders hallmarked by intellectual disability, including autism. We report that mice harboring the 16p11.2 deletion exhibit a paradoxical elevation of ERK activity, cortical cytoarchitecture abnormalities and behavioral deficits. Importantly, we show that treatment with a novel ERK pathway inhibitor during a critical period of brain development rescues the molecular, anatomical and behavioral deficits in the 16p11.2 deletion mice. The ERK inhibitor treatment administered to adult mice ameliorates a subset of these behavioral deficits. Our findings provide evidence for potential targeted therapeutic intervention in 16p11.2 deletion carriers.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The ERK/MAPK pathway is genetically linked to autism spectrum disorders and other syndromes typified by intellectual disability. We provide direct evidence connecting the ERK/MAP kinases to the developmental abnormalities in neurogenesis and cortical cytoarchitecture associated with the 16p11.2 chromosomal deletion. Most importantly, we demonstrate that treatment with a novel ERK-specific inhibitor during development rescues aberrant cortical cytoarchitecture and restores normal levels of cell-cycle regulators during cortical neurogenesis. These treatments partially reverse the behavioral deficits observed in the 16p11.2del mouse model, including hyperactivity, memory as well as olfaction, and maternal behavior. We also report a rescue of a subset of these deficits upon treatment of adult 16p11.2del mice. These data provide a strong rationale for therapeutic approaches to this disorder.
Collapse
|
213
|
Fahim A, Rehman Z, Bhatti MF, Ali A, Virk N, Rashid A, Paracha RZ. Structural insights and characterization of human Npas4 protein. PeerJ 2018; 6:e4978. [PMID: 29915698 PMCID: PMC6004298 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.4978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Npas4 is an activity dependent transcription factor which is responsible for gearing the expression of target genes involved in neuro-transmission. Despite the importance of Npas4 in many neuronal diseases, the tertiary structure of Npas4 protein along with its physico-chemical properties is limited. In the current study, first we perfomed the phylogenetic analysis of Npas4 and determined the content of hydrophobic, flexible and order-disorder promoting amino acids. The protein binding regions, post-translational modifications and crystallization propensity of Npas4 were predicted through different in-silico methods. The three dimensional model of Npas4 was predicted through LOMET, SPARSKS-X, I-Tasser, RaptorX, MUSTER and Pyhre and the best model was selected on the basis of Ramachandran plot, PROSA, and Qmean scores. The best model was then subjected to further refinement though MODREFINER. Finally the interacting partners of Npas4 were identified through STRING database. The phylogenetic analysis showed the human Npas4 gene to be closely related to other primates such as chimpanzees, monkey, gibbon. The physiochemical properties of Npas4 showed that it is an intrinsically disordered protein with N-terminal ordered region. The post-translational modification analyses indicated absence of acetylation and mannosylation sites. Three potential phosphorylation sites (S108, T130 and T136) were found in PAS A domain whilst a single phosphorylation site (S273) was present in PAS B domain. The predicted tertiary structure of Npas4 showed that bHLH domain and PAS domain possess tertiary structures while the rest of the protein exhibited disorder property. Protein-protein interaction analysis revealed NPas4 interaction with various proteins which are mainly involved in nuclear trafficking of proteins to cytoplasm, activity regulated gene transcription and neurodevelopmental disorders. Moreover the analysis also highlighted the direct relation to proteins involved in promoting neuronal survival, plasticity and cAMP responsive element binding protein proteins. The current study helps in understanding the physicochemical properties and reveals the neuro-modulatory role of Npas4 in crucial pathways involved in neuronal survival and neural signalling hemostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ammad Fahim
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Zaira Rehman
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Faraz Bhatti
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Amjad Ali
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Nasar Virk
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Amir Rashid
- Army Medical College, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Rehan Zafar Paracha
- Research Center for Modeling and Simulation (RCMS), National University of Sciences & Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
214
|
Neonatal maternal deprivation impairs localized de novo activity-induced protein translation at the synapse in the rat hippocampus. Biosci Rep 2018; 38:BSR20180118. [PMID: 29700212 PMCID: PMC5997792 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20180118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Neonatal neuropsychiatric stress induces alterations in neurodevelopment that can lead to irreversible damage to neuronal physiology, and social, behavioral, and cognitive skills. In addition, this culminates to an elevated vulnerability to stress and anxiety later in life. Developmental deficits in hippocampal synaptic function and plasticity are among the primary contributors of detrimental alterations in brain function induced by early-life stress. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not completely understood. Localized protein translation, occurring at the synapse and triggered by neuronal activity, is critical for synapse function, maintenance, and plasticity. We used a rodent model of chronic maternal deprivation to characterize the effects of early-life neuropsychiatric stress on localized de novo protein translation at synaptic connections between neurons. Synaptoneurosomal preparations isolated biochemically from the hippocampi of rat pups that were subjected to maternal deprivation were deficient in depolarization-induced activity-dependent protein translation when compared with littermate controls. Conversely, basal unstimulated protein translation was not affected. Moreover, deficits in activity-driven synaptic protein translation were significantly correlated with a reduction in phosphorylated cell survival protein kinase protein B or Akt (p473 Ser and p308 Thr), but not phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase.
Collapse
|
215
|
Metaxakis A, Petratou D, Tavernarakis N. Multimodal sensory processing in Caenorhabditis elegans. Open Biol 2018; 8:180049. [PMID: 29925633 PMCID: PMC6030117 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.180049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Multisensory integration is a mechanism that allows organisms to simultaneously sense and understand external stimuli from different modalities. These distinct signals are transduced into neuronal signals that converge into decision-making neuronal entities. Such decision-making centres receive information through neuromodulators regarding the organism's physiological state and accordingly trigger behavioural responses. Despite the importance of multisensory integration for efficient functioning of the nervous system, and also the implication of dysfunctional multisensory integration in the aetiology of neuropsychiatric disease, little is known about the relative molecular mechanisms. Caenorhabditis elegans is an appropriate model system to study such mechanisms and elucidate the molecular ways through which organisms understand external environments in an accurate and coherent fashion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Athanasios Metaxakis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Nikolaou Plastira 100, Heraklion 70013, Crete, Greece
| | - Dionysia Petratou
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Nikolaou Plastira 100, Heraklion 70013, Crete, Greece
| | - Nektarios Tavernarakis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Nikolaou Plastira 100, Heraklion 70013, Crete, Greece
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion 71110, Crete, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
216
|
Activity-dependent aberrations in gene expression and alternative splicing in a mouse model of Rett syndrome. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:E5363-E5372. [PMID: 29769330 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1722546115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder that affects about 1 in 10,000 female live births. The underlying cause of RTT is mutations in the X-linked gene, methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2); however, the molecular mechanism by which these mutations mediate the RTT neuropathology remains enigmatic. Specifically, although MeCP2 is known to act as a transcriptional repressor, analyses of the RTT brain at steady-state conditions detected numerous differentially expressed genes, while the changes in transcript levels were mostly subtle. Here we reveal an aberrant global pattern of gene expression, characterized predominantly by higher levels of expression of activity-dependent genes, and anomalous alternative splicing events, specifically in response to neuronal activity in a mouse model for RTT. Notably, the specific splicing modalities of intron retention and exon skipping displayed a significant bias toward increased retained introns and skipped exons, respectively, in the RTT brain compared with the WT brain. Furthermore, these aberrations occur in conjunction with higher seizure susceptibility in response to neuronal activity in RTT mice. Our findings advance the concept that normal MeCP2 functioning is required for fine-tuning the robust and immediate changes in gene transcription and for proper regulation of alternative splicing induced in response to neuronal stimulation.
Collapse
|
217
|
Manoli DS, Tollkuhn J. Gene regulatory mechanisms underlying sex differences in brain development and psychiatric disease. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2018; 1420:26-45. [PMID: 29363776 PMCID: PMC5991992 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The sexual differentiation of the mammalian nervous system requires the precise coordination of the temporal and spatial regulation of gene expression in diverse cell types. Sex hormones act at multiple developmental time points to specify sex-typical differentiation during embryonic and early development and to coordinate subsequent responses to gonadal hormones later in life by establishing sex-typical patterns of epigenetic modifications across the genome. Thus, mutations associated with neuropsychiatric conditions may result in sexually dimorphic symptoms by acting on different neural substrates or chromatin landscapes in males and females. Finally, as stress hormone signaling may directly alter the molecular machinery that interacts with sex hormone receptors to regulate gene expression, the contribution of chronic stress to the pathogenesis or presentation of mental illness may be additionally different between the sexes. Here, we review the mechanisms that contribute to sexual differentiation in the mammalian nervous system and consider some of the implications of these processes for sex differences in neuropsychiatric conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Devanand S. Manoli
- Department of Psychiatry and Weill Institute for Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | | |
Collapse
|
218
|
Saeliw T, Tangsuwansri C, Thongkorn S, Chonchaiya W, Suphapeetiporn K, Mutirangura A, Tencomnao T, Hu VW, Sarachana T. Integrated genome-wide Alu methylation and transcriptome profiling analyses reveal novel epigenetic regulatory networks associated with autism spectrum disorder. Mol Autism 2018; 9:27. [PMID: 29686828 PMCID: PMC5902935 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-018-0213-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Alu elements are a group of repetitive elements that can influence gene expression through CpG residues and transcription factor binding. Altered gene expression and methylation profiles have been reported in various tissues and cell lines from individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the role of Alu elements in ASD remains unclear. We thus investigated whether Alu elements are associated with altered gene expression profiles in ASD. Methods We obtained five blood-based gene expression profiles from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and human Alu-inserted gene lists from the TranspoGene database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in ASD were identified from each study and overlapped with the human Alu-inserted genes. The biological functions and networks of Alu-inserted DEGs were then predicted by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). A combined bisulfite restriction analysis of lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) derived from 36 ASD and 20 sex- and age-matched unaffected individuals was performed to assess the global DNA methylation levels within Alu elements, and the Alu expression levels were determined by quantitative RT-PCR. Results In ASD blood or blood-derived cells, 320 Alu-inserted genes were reproducibly differentially expressed. Biological function and pathway analysis showed that these genes were significantly associated with neurodevelopmental disorders and neurological functions involved in ASD etiology. Interestingly, estrogen receptor and androgen signaling pathways implicated in the sex bias of ASD, as well as IL-6 signaling and neuroinflammation signaling pathways, were also highlighted. Alu methylation was not significantly different between the ASD and sex- and age-matched control groups. However, significantly altered Alu methylation patterns were observed in ASD cases sub-grouped based on Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised scores compared with matched controls. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis of Alu expression also showed significant differences between ASD subgroups. Interestingly, Alu expression was correlated with methylation status in one phenotypic ASD subgroup. Conclusion Alu methylation and expression were altered in LCLs from ASD subgroups. Our findings highlight the association of Alu elements with gene dysregulation in ASD blood samples and warrant further investigation. Moreover, the classification of ASD individuals into subgroups based on phenotypes may be beneficial and could provide insights into the still unknown etiology and the underlying mechanisms of ASD. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13229-018-0213-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thanit Saeliw
- 1M.Sc. Program in Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chayanin Tangsuwansri
- 1M.Sc. Program in Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Surangrat Thongkorn
- 1M.Sc. Program in Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Weerasak Chonchaiya
- 2Maximizing Thai Children's Developmental Potential Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kanya Suphapeetiporn
- 3Center of Excellence for Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Excellence Center for Medical Genetics, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Apiwat Mutirangura
- 5Center of Excellence in Molecular Genetics of Cancer and Human Diseases, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tewin Tencomnao
- 6Age-related Inflammation and Degeneration Research Unit, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, 154 Soi Chula 12, Rama 1 Road, Wangmai, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
| | - Valerie W Hu
- 7Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC USA
| | - Tewarit Sarachana
- 6Age-related Inflammation and Degeneration Research Unit, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, 154 Soi Chula 12, Rama 1 Road, Wangmai, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
219
|
Fink JJ, Levine ES. Uncovering True Cellular Phenotypes: Using Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Neurons to Study Early Insults in Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Front Neurol 2018; 9:237. [PMID: 29713304 PMCID: PMC5911479 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal models of neurodevelopmental disorders have provided invaluable insights into the molecular-, cellular-, and circuit-level defects associated with a plethora of genetic disruptions. In many cases, these deficits have been linked to changes in disease-relevant behaviors, but very few of these findings have been translated to treatments for human disease. This may be due to significant species differences and the difficulty in modeling disorders that involve deletion or duplication of multiple genes. The identification of primary underlying pathophysiology in these models is confounded by the accumulation of secondary disease phenotypes in the mature nervous system, as well as potential compensatory mechanisms. The discovery of induced pluripotent stem cell technology now provides a tool to accurately model complex genetic neurogenetic disorders. Using this technique, patient-specific cell lines can be generated and differentiated into specific subtypes of neurons that can be used to identify primary cellular and molecular phenotypes. It is clear that impairments in synaptic structure and function are a common pathophysiology across neurodevelopmental disorders, and electrophysiological analysis at the earliest stages of neuronal development is critical for identifying changes in activity and excitability that can contribute to synaptic dysfunction and identify targets for disease-modifying therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James J Fink
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, United States
| | - Eric S Levine
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
220
|
Pohodich AE, Yalamanchili H, Raman AT, Wan YW, Gundry M, Hao S, Jin H, Tang J, Liu Z, Zoghbi HY. Forniceal deep brain stimulation induces gene expression and splicing changes that promote neurogenesis and plasticity. eLife 2018; 7:34031. [PMID: 29570050 PMCID: PMC5906096 DOI: 10.7554/elife.34031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical trials are currently underway to assess the efficacy of forniceal deep brain stimulation (DBS) for improvement of memory in Alzheimer's patients, and forniceal DBS has been shown to improve learning and memory in a mouse model of Rett syndrome (RTT), an intellectual disability disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in MECP2. The mechanism of DBS benefits has been elusive, however, so we assessed changes in gene expression, splice isoforms, DNA methylation, and proteome following acute forniceal DBS in wild-type mice and mice lacking Mecp2. We found that DBS upregulates genes involved in synaptic function, cell survival, and neurogenesis and normalized expression of ~25% of the genes altered in Mecp2-null mice. Moreover, DBS induced expression of 17-24% of the genes downregulated in other intellectual disability mouse models and in post-mortem human brain tissue from patients with Major Depressive Disorder, suggesting forniceal DBS could benefit individuals with a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy E Pohodich
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States.,Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, United States
| | - Hari Yalamanchili
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, United States.,Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| | - Ayush T Raman
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, United States.,Graduate Program in Quantitative and Computational Biosciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| | - Ying-Wooi Wan
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, United States.,Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| | - Michael Gundry
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| | - Shuang Hao
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, United States.,Section of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| | - Haijing Jin
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, United States.,Graduate Program in Quantitative and Computational Biosciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| | - Jianrong Tang
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, United States.,Section of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| | - Zhandong Liu
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, United States.,Graduate Program in Quantitative and Computational Biosciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States.,Section of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| | - Huda Y Zoghbi
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States.,Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, United States.,Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, United States
| |
Collapse
|
221
|
Matt L, Kim K, Hergarden AC, Patriarchi T, Malik ZA, Park DK, Chowdhury D, Buonarati OR, Henderson PB, Gökçek Saraç Ç, Zhang Y, Mohapatra D, Horne MC, Ames JB, Hell JW. α-Actinin Anchors PSD-95 at Postsynaptic Sites. Neuron 2018; 97:1094-1109.e9. [PMID: 29429936 PMCID: PMC5963734 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2018.01.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Revised: 12/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Despite the central role PSD-95 plays in anchoring postsynaptic AMPARs, how PSD-95 itself is tethered to postsynaptic sites is not well understood. Here we show that the F-actin binding protein α-actinin binds to the very N terminus of PSD-95. Knockdown (KD) of α-actinin phenocopies KD of PSD-95. Mutating lysine at position 10 or lysine at position 11 of PSD-95 to glutamate, or glutamate at position 53 or glutamate and aspartate at positions 213 and 217 of α-actinin, respectively, to lysine impairs, in parallel, PSD-95 binding to α-actinin and postsynaptic localization of PSD-95 and AMPARs. These experiments identify α-actinin as a critical PSD-95 anchor tethering the AMPAR-PSD-95 complex to postsynaptic sites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Matt
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Karam Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Anne C Hergarden
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Tommaso Patriarchi
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Zulfiqar A Malik
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Deborah K Park
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | | | - Olivia R Buonarati
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Peter B Henderson
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Çiğdem Gökçek Saraç
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Yonghong Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Durga Mohapatra
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Mary C Horne
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - James B Ames
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Johannes W Hell
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
222
|
B-1a lymphocytes promote oligodendrogenesis during brain development. Nat Neurosci 2018; 21:506-516. [PMID: 29507409 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-018-0106-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
During brain development, the immune system mediates neurogenesis, gliogenesis and synapse formation. However, it remains unclear whether peripheral lymphocytes contribute to brain development. Here we identified the subtypes of lymphocytes that are present in neonatal mouse brains and investigated their functions. We found that B-1a cells, a subtype of B cells, were abundant in the neonatal mouse brain and infiltrated into the brain in a CXCL13-CXCR5-dependent manner. B-1a cells promoted the proliferation of oligodendrocyte-precursor cells (OPCs) in vitro, and depletion of B-1a cells from developing brains resulted in a reduction of numbers of OPCs and mature oligodendrocytes. Furthermore, neutralizing Fcα/μR, the receptor for the Fc region of IgM secreted by B-1a cells, inhibited OPC proliferation and reduced the proportion of myelinated axons in neonatal mouse brains. Our results demonstrate that B-1a cells infiltrate into the brain and contribute to oligodendrogenesis and myelination by promoting OPC proliferation via IgM-Fcα/μR signaling.
Collapse
|
223
|
Zhang R, Zhou J, Ren J, Sun S, Di Y, Wang H, An X, Zhang K, Zhang J, Qian Z, Shi M, Qiao Y, Ren W, Tian Y. Transcriptional and splicing dysregulation in the prefrontal cortex in valproic acid rat model of autism. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 77:53-61. [PMID: 29427782 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Revised: 01/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Gene-environmental interaction could be the major cause of autism. The aim of the current study is to detect the effects of valproic acid on gene expression profiles and alternatively spliced genes in the prefrontal cortex in rat models of autism. Female rats received a single intraperitoneal injection of 600 mg/kg valproic acid at day 12.5 post-conception, and controls were injected with saline. Only male offspring were employed in the current study. RNA sequencing was used to investigate transcriptome in the prefrontal cortex of VPA-exposed rats. There were 3228 differently expressed genes and 637 alternative spliced genes, in VPA rats compared to controls. Pathways enrichment among the differently expressed genes and alternatively spliced genes were associated with neurological diseases and neural system development. The results implied VPA affected transcriptional and splicing events genome-wide and the transcriptional and splicing events may be associated with the autistic behaviors of VPA rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruoxin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710062, China; College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710119, China
| | - Jinlong Zhou
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710119, China
| | - Junrong Ren
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710119, China
| | - Siqi Sun
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710119, China
| | - Yuanyuan Di
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710119, China
| | - Hanyu Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710119, China
| | - Xiaoqin An
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710119, China
| | - Kexin Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710119, China
| | - Junfeng Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710021, China
| | - Zhaoqiang Qian
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710062, China
| | - Meimei Shi
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710062, China
| | - Yanning Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710062, China
| | - Wei Ren
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710062, China
| | - Yingfang Tian
- Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710062, China; College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710119, China.
| |
Collapse
|
224
|
From altered synaptic plasticity to atypical learning: A computational model of Down syndrome. Cognition 2018; 171:15-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cognition.2017.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2017] [Revised: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
|
225
|
Cheon S, Dean M, Chahrour M. The ubiquitin proteasome pathway in neuropsychiatric disorders. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2018; 165:106791. [PMID: 29398581 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2018.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) is a highly conserved pathway that tightly regulates protein turnover in cells. This process is integral to neuronal development, differentiation, and function. Several members of the UPS are disrupted in neuropsychiatric disorders, highlighting the importance of this pathway in brain development and function. In this review, we discuss some of these pathway members, the molecular processes they regulate, and the potential for targeting the UPS in an effort to develop therapeutic strategies in neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Solmi Cheon
- Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Milan Dean
- Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Maria Chahrour
- Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Departments of Neuroscience and Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
226
|
Chen J, Lei L, Tian L, Hou F, Roper C, Ge X, Zhao Y, Chen Y, Dong Q, Tanguay RL, Huang C. Developmental and behavioral alterations in zebrafish embryonically exposed to valproic acid (VPA): An aquatic model for autism. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2018; 66:8-16. [PMID: 29309833 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2018.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Revised: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has complex neurodevelopmental impairments and origins that are linked to both genetic and environmental factors. Hence, there is an urgency to establish animal models with ASD-like characteristics to understand the underlying mechanisms of ASD. Prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) produced ASD-like symptoms in humans, rats, and recently zebrafish. The present study investigated the use of VPA exposure to generate an ASD model in zebrafish. Early life stage exposures produced ASD-like phenotypes in the developing brain development and behavioral changes in embryonic and larval zebrafish. Our findings revealed that treating zebrafish embryos with VPA starting at 8h post fertilization (hpf) resulted in significant: increase in the ASD macrocephalic phenotype; hyperactivity of embryo/larvae movement behaviors; and increases of ASD-like larval social behaviors. Further analysis showed increases in cell proliferation, the proportion of mature newborn neurons, and neural stem cell proliferation in the brain region, which may contribute to the brain overgrowth and macrocephaly observed following VPA exposure. Our study demonstrated that VPA exposure generates ASD-like phenotypes and behaviors, indicating that zebrafish is an alternative model to investigate underlying ASD mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiangfei Chen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Technology and Application of Model Organisms, Institute of Environmental Safety and Human Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Lei Lei
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Technology and Application of Model Organisms, Institute of Environmental Safety and Human Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Linjie Tian
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Technology and Application of Model Organisms, Institute of Environmental Safety and Human Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Fei Hou
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Technology and Application of Model Organisms, Institute of Environmental Safety and Human Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Courtney Roper
- Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory and the Environmental Health Sciences Center, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
| | - Xiaoqing Ge
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Technology and Application of Model Organisms, Institute of Environmental Safety and Human Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Yuxin Zhao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Technology and Application of Model Organisms, Institute of Environmental Safety and Human Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Yuanhong Chen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Technology and Application of Model Organisms, Institute of Environmental Safety and Human Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Qiaoxiang Dong
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Technology and Application of Model Organisms, Institute of Environmental Safety and Human Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Robert L Tanguay
- Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory and the Environmental Health Sciences Center, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA.
| | - Changjiang Huang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Technology and Application of Model Organisms, Institute of Environmental Safety and Human Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China.
| |
Collapse
|
227
|
Wang Y, Shen C, Wang C, Zhou Y, Gao D, Zuo Z. Maternal and embryonic exposure to the water soluble fraction of crude oil or lead induces behavioral abnormalities in zebrafish (Danio rerio), and the mechanisms involved. CHEMOSPHERE 2018; 191:7-16. [PMID: 29024898 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.09.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2017] [Revised: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The water-soluble fraction (WSF) of crude oil plays an important role in the toxicity of crude oil in aquatic environments. Heavy metals, such as lead (Pb) are also important environmental contaminants, which can reach aquatic systems via the effluents of industrial, urban and mining sources. In the present study, we investigated whether maternal and embryonic exposure to the WSF (5, 50 μg/L) or Pb (10, 100 μg/L) could induce behavioral abnormalities in zebrafish. Our results showed that maternal and embryonic exposure to the WSF (5, 50 μg/L) and Pb (10, 100 μg/L) induced swimming activity alterations in larval and juvenile zebrafish. In 15 days post-fertilization (dpf) larval zebrafish, the distance moved was significantly increased in the groups treated with the WSF (5, 50 μg/L), but the angular velocity and turn angle were decreased after treatment with the WSF (5, 50 μg/L) or Pb (10, 100 μg/L). In 30 dpf juvenile zebrafish, the distance moved was markedly decreased in both groups treated with the WSF (5, 50 μg/L) and the Pb (10 μg/L) group, but the percentage of zebrafish moving up and the inter-fish distance of two juvenile fish were increased after treatment with the WSF (5, 50 μg/L) or Pb (10, 100 μg/L). Maternal and embryonic exposure to the WSF (5, 50 μg/L) or Pb (10, 100 μg/L) likely impaired the brain neurons growth and induced behavioral abnormalities in the larval and juvenile zebrafish. Furthermore, the expressions of some key genes, which were associated with calcium channels, behavioral development or the metabolism of environmental contaminants, were changed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanchuan Wang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Chao Shen
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Chonggang Wang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Yixi Zhou
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Dongxu Gao
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Zhenghong Zuo
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China.
| |
Collapse
|
228
|
Heslin K, Coutellier L. Npas4 deficiency and prenatal stress interact to affect social recognition in mice. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2018; 17:e12448. [PMID: 29227584 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia have an expansive array of reported genetic and environmental contributing factors. However, none of these factors alone can account for a substantial proportion of cases of either disorder. Instead, many gene-by-environment interactions are responsible for neurodevelopmental disturbances that lead to these disorders. The current experiment used heterozygous knock-out mice to examine a potential interaction between 2 factors commonly linked to neurodevelopmental disorders and cognitive deficit: imbalanced excitatory/inhibitory signaling in the cortex and prenatal stress (PNS) exposure. Both of these factors have been linked to disrupt GABAergic signaling in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), a common feature of neurodevelopmental disorders. The neuronal PAS domain protein 4 (Npas4) gene is instrumental in regulation of the excitatory/inhibitory balance in the cortex and hippocampus in response to activation. Npas4 heterozygous and wild-type male and female mice were exposed to either PNS or standard gestation, then evaluated during adulthood in social and anxiety behavioral measures. The combination of PNS and Npas4 deficiency in male mice impaired social recognition. This behavioral deficit was associated with decreased parvalbumin and cFos protein expression in the infralimbic region of the PFC following social stimulation in Npas4 heterozygous males. In contrast, females displayed fewer behavioral effects and molecular changes in PFC in response to PNS and decreased Npas4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Heslin
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - L Coutellier
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
229
|
Wild AR, Dell'Acqua ML. Potential for therapeutic targeting of AKAP signaling complexes in nervous system disorders. Pharmacol Ther 2017; 185:99-121. [PMID: 29262295 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2017.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
A common feature of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders is a breakdown in the integrity of intracellular signal transduction pathways. Dysregulation of ion channels and receptors in the cell membrane and the enzymatic mediators that link them to intracellular effectors can lead to synaptic dysfunction and neuronal death. However, therapeutic targeting of these ubiquitous signaling elements can lead to off-target side effects due to their widespread expression in multiple systems of the body. A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) are multivalent scaffolding proteins that compartmentalize a diverse range of receptor and effector proteins to streamline signaling within nanodomain signalosomes. A number of essential neurological processes are known to critically depend on AKAP-directed signaling and an understanding of the role AKAPs play in nervous system disorders has emerged in recent years. Selective targeting of AKAP protein-protein interactions may be a means to uncouple pathologically active signaling pathways in neurological disorders with a greater degree of specificity. In this review we will discuss the role of AKAPs in both regulating normal nervous system function and dysfunction associated with disease, and the potential for therapeutic targeting of AKAP signaling complexes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela R Wild
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Mark L Dell'Acqua
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
230
|
Rai-Bhogal R, Ahmad E, Li H, Crawford DA. Microarray analysis of gene expression in the cyclooxygenase knockout mice - a connection to autism spectrum disorder. Eur J Neurosci 2017; 47:750-766. [PMID: 29161772 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Revised: 11/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The cellular and molecular events that take place during brain development play an important role in governing function of the mature brain. Lipid-signalling molecules such as prostaglandin E2 (PGE2 ) play an important role in healthy brain development. Abnormalities along the COX-PGE2 signalling pathway due to genetic or environmental causes have been linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study aims to evaluate the effect of altered COX-PGE2 signalling on development and function of the prenatal brain using male mice lacking cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-1-/- and COX-2-/- ) as potential model systems of ASD. Microarray analysis was used to determine global changes in gene expression during embryonic days 16 (E16) and 19 (E19). Gene Ontology: Biological Process (GO:BP) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were implemented to identify affected developmental genes and cellular processes. We found that in both knockouts the brain at E16 had nearly twice as many differentially expressed genes, and affected biological pathways containing various ASD-associated genes important in neuronal function. Interestingly, using GeneMANIA and Cytoscape we also show that the ASD-risk genes identified in both COX-1-/- and COX-2-/- models belong to protein-interaction networks important for brain development despite of different cellular localization of these enzymes. Lastly, we identified eight genes that belong to the Wnt signalling pathways exclusively in the COX-2-/- mice at E16. The level of PKA-phosphorylated β-catenin (S552), a major activator of the Wnt pathway, was increased in this model, suggesting crosstalk between the COX-2-PGE2 and Wnt pathways during early brain development. Overall, these results provide further molecular insight into the contribution of the COX-PGE2 pathways to ASD and demonstrate that COX-1-/- and COX-2-/- animals might be suitable new model systems for studying the disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ravneet Rai-Bhogal
- Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada.,Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Eizaaz Ahmad
- Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada.,Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hongyan Li
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Dorota A Crawford
- Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada.,Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada.,School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
231
|
Madabhushi R, Kim TK. Emerging themes in neuronal activity-dependent gene expression. Mol Cell Neurosci 2017; 87:27-34. [PMID: 29254824 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2017.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2017] [Revised: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we attempt to discuss emerging themes in the regulation of neuronal activity-regulated genes, focusing primarily on an important subset of immediate-early genes. We first discuss earlier studies that have illuminated the role of cis-acting elements within the promoters of immediate-early genes, the corresponding transcription factors that bind these elements, and the roles of major activity-regulated signaling pathways. However, our emphasis is on new studies that have revealed an important role for epigenetic and topological mechanisms, including enhancer-promoter interactions, enhancer RNAs (eRNAs), and activity-induced DNA breaks, that have emerged as important factors that govern the temporal dynamics of activity-induced gene transcription.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ram Madabhushi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Tae-Kyung Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
232
|
Insulin-Like Growth Factor II Targets the mTOR Pathway to Reverse Autism-Like Phenotypes in Mice. J Neurosci 2017; 38:1015-1029. [PMID: 29217683 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2010-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2017] [Revised: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability characterized by impairments in social interaction and repetitive behavior, and is also associated with cognitive deficits. There is no current treatment that can ameliorate most of the ASD symptomatology; thus, identifying novel therapies is urgently needed. We used male BTBR T+Itpr3tf /J (BTBR) mice, a model that reproduces most of the core behavioral phenotypes of ASD, to test the effects of systemic administration of insulin-like growth factor II (IGF-II), a polypeptide that crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts as a cognitive enhancer. We show that systemic IGF-II treatments reverse the typical defects in social interaction, cognitive/executive functions, and repetitive behaviors reflective of ASD-like phenotypes. In BTBR mice, IGF-II, via IGF-II receptor, but not via IGF-I receptor, reverses the abnormal levels of the AMPK-mTOR-S6K pathway and of active translation at synapses. Thus, IGF-II may represent a novel potential therapy for ASD.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Currently, there is no effective treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a developmental disability affecting a high number of children. Using a mouse model that expresses most of the key core as well as associated behavioral deficits of ASD, that are, social, cognitive, and repetitive behaviors, we report that a systemic administration of the polypeptide insulin-like growth factor II (IGF-II) reverses all these deficits. The effects of IGF-II occur via IGF-II receptors, and not IGF-I receptors, and target both basal and learning-dependent molecular abnormalities found in several ASD mice models, including those of identified genetic mutations. We suggest that IGF-II represents a potential novel therapeutic target for ASD.
Collapse
|
233
|
Figlia G, Gerber D, Suter U. Myelination and mTOR. Glia 2017; 66:693-707. [PMID: 29210103 PMCID: PMC5836902 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Revised: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Myelinating cells surround axons to accelerate the propagation of action potentials, to support axonal health, and to refine neural circuits. Myelination is metabolically demanding and, consistent with this notion, mTORC1—a signaling hub coordinating cell metabolism—has been implicated as a key signal for myelination. Here, we will discuss metabolic aspects of myelination, illustrate the main metabolic processes regulated by mTORC1, and review advances on the role of mTORC1 in myelination of the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. Recent progress has revealed a complex role of mTORC1 in myelinating cells that includes, besides positive regulation of myelin growth, additional critical functions in the stages preceding active myelination. Based on the available evidence, we will also highlight potential nonoverlapping roles between mTORC1 and its known main upstream pathways PI3K‐Akt, Mek‐Erk1/2, and AMPK in myelinating cells. Finally, we will discuss signals that are already known or hypothesized to be responsible for the regulation of mTORC1 activity in myelinating cells. Myelination is metabolically demanding. The metabolic regulator mTORC1 controls differentiation of myelinating cells and promotes myelin
growth. mTORC1‐independent targets of the PI3K‐Akt and Mek‐Erk1/2 pathways may also be significant in myelination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Figlia
- Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Department of Biology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, ETH Zürich, Zürich, CH 8093, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Gerber
- Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Department of Biology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, ETH Zürich, Zürich, CH 8093, Switzerland
| | - Ueli Suter
- Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Department of Biology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, ETH Zürich, Zürich, CH 8093, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
234
|
The Autism Protein Ube3A/E6AP Remodels Neuronal Dendritic Arborization via Caspase-Dependent Microtubule Destabilization. J Neurosci 2017; 38:363-378. [PMID: 29175955 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1511-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2017] [Revised: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
UBE3A gene copy number variation and the resulting overexpression of the protein E6AP is directly linked to autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). However, the underlying cellular and molecular neurobiology remains less clear. Here we report the role of ASD-related increased dosage of Ube3A/E6AP in dendritic arborization during brain development. We show that increased E6AP expression in primary cultured neurons leads to a reduction in dendritic branch number and length. The E6AP-dependent remodeling of dendritic arborization results from retraction of dendrites by thinning and fragmentation at the tips of dendrite branches, leading to shortening or removal of dendrites. This remodeling effect is mediated by the ubiquitination and degradation of XIAP (X-linked inhibitors of aptosis protein) by E6AP, which leads to activation of caspase-3 and cleavage of microtubules. In vivo, male and female Ube3A 2X ASD mice show decreased XIAP levels, increased caspase-3 activation, and elevated levels of tubulin cleavage. Consistently, dendritic branching and spine density are reduced in cortical neurons of Ube3A 2X ASD mice. In revealing an important role for Ube3A/E6AP in ASD-related developmental alteration in dendritic arborization and synapse formation, our findings provide new insights into the pathogenesis of Ube3A/E6AP-dependent ASD.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Copy number variation of the UBE3A gene and aberrant overexpression of the gene product E6AP protein is a common cause of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). During brain development, dendritic growth and remodeling play crucial roles in neuronal connectivity and information integration. We found that in primary neurons and in Ube3A transgenic autism mouse brain, overexpression of E6AP leads to significant loss of dendritic arborization. This effect is mediated by the ubiquitination of XIAP (X-linked inhibitor of aptosis protein) by E6AP, subsequent activation of caspases, and the eventual cleavage of microtubules, leading to local degeneration and retraction at the tips of dendritic branches. These findings demonstrate dysregulation in neuronal structural stability as a major cellular neuropathology in ASD.
Collapse
|
235
|
Wang L, Lu SR, Wen J. Recent Advances on Neuromorphic Systems Using Phase-Change Materials. NANOSCALE RESEARCH LETTERS 2017; 12:347. [PMID: 28499334 PMCID: PMC5425657 DOI: 10.1186/s11671-017-2114-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Realization of brain-like computer has always been human's ultimate dream. Today, the possibility of having this dream come true has been significantly boosted due to the advent of several emerging non-volatile memory devices. Within these innovative technologies, phase-change memory device has been commonly regarded as the most promising candidate to imitate the biological brain, owing to its excellent scalability, fast switching speed, and low energy consumption. In this context, a detailed review concerning the physical principles of the neuromorphic circuit using phase-change materials as well as a comprehensive introduction of the currently available phase-change neuromorphic prototypes becomes imperative for scientists to continuously progress the technology of artificial neural networks. In this paper, we first present the biological mechanism of human brain, followed by a brief discussion about physical properties of phase-change materials that recently receive a widespread application on non-volatile memory field. We then survey recent research on different types of neuromorphic circuits using phase-change materials in terms of their respective geometrical architecture and physical schemes to reproduce the biological events of human brain, in particular for spike-time-dependent plasticity. The relevant virtues and limitations of these devices are also evaluated. Finally, the future prospect of the neuromorphic circuit based on phase-change technologies is envisioned.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- School of Information Engineering, Nanchang HangKong University, Nanchang, 330063, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Automatic Control, School of Information Engineering, Nanchang Hangkong University, Nanchang, 330069, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Shu-Ren Lu
- School of Information Engineering, Nanchang HangKong University, Nanchang, 330063, People's Republic of China
- Department of Automatic Control, School of Information Engineering, Nanchang Hangkong University, Nanchang, 330069, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Wen
- School of Information Engineering, Nanchang HangKong University, Nanchang, 330063, People's Republic of China
- Department of Automatic Control, School of Information Engineering, Nanchang Hangkong University, Nanchang, 330069, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
236
|
Ahmad F, Singh K, Das D, Gowaikar R, Shaw E, Ramachandran A, Rupanagudi KV, Kommaddi RP, Bennett DA, Ravindranath V. Reactive Oxygen Species-Mediated Loss of Synaptic Akt1 Signaling Leads to Deficient Activity-Dependent Protein Translation Early in Alzheimer's Disease. Antioxid Redox Signal 2017; 27:1269-1280. [PMID: 28264587 PMCID: PMC5655421 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2016.6860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Synaptic deficits are known to underlie the cognitive dysfunction seen in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by β-amyloid has also been implicated in AD pathogenesis. However, it is unclear whether ROS contributes to synaptic dysfunction seen in AD pathogenesis and, therefore, we examined whether altered redox signaling could contribute to synaptic deficits in AD. RESULTS Activity dependent but not basal translation was impaired in synaptoneurosomes from 1-month old presymptomatic APPSwe/PS1ΔE9 (APP/PS1) mice, and this deficit was sustained till middle age (MA, 9-10 months). ROS generation leads to oxidative modification of Akt1 in the synapse and consequent reduction in Akt1-mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling, leading to deficiency in activity-dependent protein translation. Moreover, we found a similar loss of activity-dependent protein translation in synaptoneurosomes from postmortem AD brains. INNOVATION Loss of activity-dependent protein translation occurs presymptomatically early in the pathogenesis of AD. This is caused by ROS-mediated loss of pAkt1, leading to reduced synaptic Akt1-mTOR signaling and is rescued by overexpression of Akt1. ROS-mediated damage is restricted to the synaptosomes, indicating selectivity. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate that ROS-mediated oxidative modification of Akt1 contributes to synaptic dysfunction in AD, seen as loss of activity-dependent protein translation that is essential for synaptic plasticity and maintenance. Therapeutic strategies promoting Akt1-mTOR signaling at synapses may provide novel target(s) for disease-modifying therapy in AD. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 27, 1269-1280.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Faraz Ahmad
- 1 Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science , Bangalore, India
| | - Kunal Singh
- 1 Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science , Bangalore, India
| | - Debajyoti Das
- 1 Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science , Bangalore, India
| | - Ruturaj Gowaikar
- 1 Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science , Bangalore, India
| | - Eisha Shaw
- 1 Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science , Bangalore, India
| | | | | | | | - David A Bennett
- 2 Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush University Medical Center , Chicago, Illinois
| | - Vijayalakshmi Ravindranath
- 1 Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science , Bangalore, India .,3 Centre for Brain Research , Bangalore, India
| |
Collapse
|
237
|
Hardingham GE, Pruunsild P, Greenberg ME, Bading H. Lineage divergence of activity-driven transcription and evolution of cognitive ability. Nat Rev Neurosci 2017; 19:9-15. [PMID: 29167525 DOI: 10.1038/nrn.2017.138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Excitation-transcription coupling shapes network formation during brain development and controls neuronal survival, synaptic function and cognitive skills in the adult. New studies have uncovered differences in the transcriptional responses to synaptic activity between humans and mice. These differences are caused both by the emergence of lineage-specific activity-regulated genes and by the acquisition of signal-responsive DNA elements in gene regulatory regions that determine whether a gene can be transcriptionally induced by synaptic activity or alter the extent of its inducibility. Such evolutionary divergence may have contributed to lineage-related advancements in cognitive abilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giles E Hardingham
- UK Dementia Research Institute at The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Medical School, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Priit Pruunsild
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Center for Neurosciences (IZN), Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael E Greenberg
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Hilmar Bading
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Center for Neurosciences (IZN), Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
238
|
Rigamonti A, Repetti GG, Sun C, Price FD, Reny DC, Rapino F, Weisinger K, Benkler C, Peterson QP, Davidow LS, Hansson EM, Rubin LL. Large-Scale Production of Mature Neurons from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells in a Three-Dimensional Suspension Culture System. Stem Cell Reports 2017; 6:993-1008. [PMID: 27304920 PMCID: PMC4912437 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2016.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) offer a renewable source of cells that can be expanded indefinitely and differentiated into virtually any type of cell in the human body, including neurons. This opens up unprecedented possibilities to study neuronal cell and developmental biology and cellular pathology of the nervous system, provides a platform for the screening of chemical libraries that affect these processes, and offers a potential source of transplantable cells for regenerative approaches to neurological disease. However, defining protocols that permit a large number and high yield of neurons has proved difficult. We present differentiation protocols for the generation of distinct subtypes of neurons in a highly reproducible manner, with minimal experiment-to-experiment variation. These neurons form synapses with neighboring cells, exhibit spontaneous electrical activity, and respond appropriately to depolarization. hPSC-derived neurons exhibit a high degree of maturation and survive in culture for up to 4-5 months, even without astrocyte feeder layers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Rigamonti
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Giuliana G Repetti
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Chicheng Sun
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Feodor D Price
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Danielle C Reny
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Francesca Rapino
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Karen Weisinger
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Chen Benkler
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Quinn P Peterson
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Lance S Davidow
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Emil M Hansson
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Department of Medicine, KI-AZ Integrated Cardio Metabolic Centre, Karolinska Institutet, NOVUM, Hälsovägen 7, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Lee L Rubin
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
239
|
Is High Folic Acid Intake a Risk Factor for Autism?-A Review. Brain Sci 2017; 7:brainsci7110149. [PMID: 29125540 PMCID: PMC5704156 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci7110149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Folate is required for metabolic processes and neural development. Insuring its adequate levels for pregnant women through supplementation of grain-based foods with synthetic folic acid (FA) in order to prevent neural tube defects has been an ongoing public health initiative. However, because women are advised to take multivitamins containing FA before and throughout pregnancy, the supplementation together with natural dietary folates has led to a demographic with high and rising serum levels of unmetabolized FA. This raises concerns about the detrimental effects of high serum synthetic FA, including a rise in risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Some recent studies have reported a protective effect of FA fortification against ASD, but others have concluded there is an increased risk for ASD and other negative neurocognitive development outcomes. These issues are accompanied by further health questions concerning high, unmetabolized FA levels in serum. In this review, we outline the reasons excess FA supplementation is a concern and review the history and effects of supplementation. We then examine the effects of FA on neuronal development from tissue culture experiments, review recent advances in understanding of metabolic functional blocks in causing ASD and treatment for these with alternative forms such as folinic acid, and finally summarize the conflicting epidemiological findings regarding ASD. Based on the evidence evaluated, we conclude that caution regarding over supplementing is warranted.
Collapse
|
240
|
Homeostatic plasticity shapes the visual system's first synapse. Nat Commun 2017; 8:1220. [PMID: 29089553 PMCID: PMC5663853 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-01332-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Vision in dim light depends on synapses between rods and rod bipolar cells (RBCs). Here, we find that these synapses exist in multiple configurations, in which single release sites of rods are apposed by one to three postsynaptic densities (PSDs). Single RBCs often form multiple PSDs with one rod; and neighboring RBCs share ~13% of their inputs. Rod-RBC synapses develop while ~7% of RBCs undergo programmed cell death (PCD). Although PCD is common throughout the nervous system, its influences on circuit development and function are not well understood. We generate mice in which ~53 and ~93% of RBCs, respectively, are removed during development. In these mice, dendrites of the remaining RBCs expand in graded fashion independent of light-evoked input. As RBC dendrites expand, they form fewer multi-PSD contacts with rods. Electrophysiological recordings indicate that this homeostatic co-regulation of neurite and synapse development preserves retinal function in dim light. Retinal rod bipolar cells (RBCs) partially undergo programmed cell death triggering cell density-dependent plasticity. This study shows that increased removal of RBCs using genetic approaches causes dendrites of the remaining RBCs to expand and contact more rod photoreceptors while reducing connectivity with each.
Collapse
|
241
|
Lee Y, Kim H, Kim JE, Park JY, Choi J, Lee JE, Lee EH, Han PL. Excessive D1 Dopamine Receptor Activation in the Dorsal Striatum Promotes Autistic-Like Behaviors. Mol Neurobiol 2017; 55:5658-5671. [PMID: 29027111 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0770-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The dopamine system has been characterized in motor function, goal-directed behaviors, and rewards. Recent studies recognize various dopamine system genes as being associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, how dopamine system dysfunction induces ASD pathophysiology remains unknown. In the present study, we demonstrated that mice with increased dopamine functions in the dorsal striatum via the suppression of dopamine transporter expression in substantia nigra neurons or the optogenetic stimulation of the nigro-striatal circuitry exhibited sociability deficits and repetitive behaviors relevant to ASD pathology in animal models, while these behavioral changes were blocked by a D1 receptor antagonist. Pharmacological activation of D1 dopamine receptors in normal mice or the genetic knockout (KO) of D2 dopamine receptors also produced typical autistic-like behaviors. Moreover, the siRNA-mediated inhibition of D2 dopamine receptors in the dorsal striatum was sufficient to replicate autistic-like phenotypes in D2 KO mice. Intervention of D1 dopamine receptor functions or the signaling pathways-related D1 receptors in D2 KO mice produced anti-autistic effects. Together, our results indicate that increased dopamine function in the dorsal striatum promotes autistic-like behaviors and that the dorsal striatum is the neural correlate of ASD core symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunjin Lee
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 11-1 Daehyun-Dong, Seodaemoon-Gu, Seoul, 120-750, Republic of Korea
| | - Hannah Kim
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 11-1 Daehyun-Dong, Seodaemoon-Gu, Seoul, 120-750, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Eun Kim
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 11-1 Daehyun-Dong, Seodaemoon-Gu, Seoul, 120-750, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Young Park
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 11-1 Daehyun-Dong, Seodaemoon-Gu, Seoul, 120-750, Republic of Korea
| | - Juli Choi
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 11-1 Daehyun-Dong, Seodaemoon-Gu, Seoul, 120-750, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Eun Lee
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 11-1 Daehyun-Dong, Seodaemoon-Gu, Seoul, 120-750, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Hwa Lee
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 11-1 Daehyun-Dong, Seodaemoon-Gu, Seoul, 120-750, Republic of Korea
| | - Pyung-Lim Han
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 11-1 Daehyun-Dong, Seodaemoon-Gu, Seoul, 120-750, Republic of Korea. .,Brain Disease Research Institute, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Chemistry and Nano Science, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
242
|
Sungur AÖ, Schwarting RKW, Wöhr M. Behavioral phenotypes and neurobiological mechanisms in the Shank1 mouse model for autism spectrum disorder: A translational perspective. Behav Brain Res 2017; 352:46-61. [PMID: 28963042 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2017.09.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental disorders, characterized by early-onset deficits in social behavior and communication across multiple contexts, together with restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. ASD is among the most heritable neuropsychiatric conditions with heritability estimates higher than 80%, and while available evidence points to a complex set of genetic factors, the SHANK (also known as ProSAP) gene family has emerged as one of the most promising candidates. Several genetic Shank mouse models for ASD were generated, including Shank1 knockout mice. Behavioral studies focusing on the Shank1 knockout mouse model for ASD included assays for detecting ASD-relevant behavioral phenotypes in the following domains: (I) social behavior, (II) communication, and (III) repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behavior. In addition, assays for detecting behavioral phenotypes with relevance to comorbidities in ASD were performed, including but not limited to (IV) cognitive functioning. Here, we summarize and discuss behavioral and neuronal findings obtained in the Shank1 knockout mouse model for ASD. We identify open research questions by comparing such findings with the symptoms present in humans diagnosed with ASD and carrying SHANK1 deletions. We conclude by discussing the implications of the behavioral and neuronal phenotypes displayed by the Shank1 knockout mouse model for the development of future pharmacological interventions in ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Özge Sungur
- Behavioral Neuroscience, Experimental and Biological Psychology, Philipps-University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Rainer K W Schwarting
- Behavioral Neuroscience, Experimental and Biological Psychology, Philipps-University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Markus Wöhr
- Behavioral Neuroscience, Experimental and Biological Psychology, Philipps-University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
243
|
The Intellectual Disability and Schizophrenia Associated Transcription Factor TCF4 Is Regulated by Neuronal Activity and Protein Kinase A. J Neurosci 2017; 37:10516-10527. [PMID: 28951451 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1151-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Revised: 09/10/2017] [Accepted: 09/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription factor 4 (TCF4 also known as ITF2 or E2-2) is a basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) protein associated with Pitt-Hopkins syndrome, intellectual disability, and schizophrenia (SCZ). Here, we show that TCF4-dependent transcription in cortical neurons cultured from embryonic rats of both sexes is induced by neuronal activity via soluble adenylyl cyclase and protein kinase A (PKA) signaling. PKA phosphorylates TCF4 directly and a PKA phosphorylation site in TCF4 is necessary for its transcriptional activity in cultured neurons and in the developing brain in vivo We also demonstrate that Gadd45g (growth arrest and DNA damage inducible gamma) is a direct target of neuronal-activity-induced, TCF4-dependent transcriptional regulation and that TCF4 missense variations identified in SCZ patients alter the transcriptional activity of TCF4 in neurons. This study identifies a new role for TCF4 as a neuronal-activity-regulated transcription factor, offering a novel perspective on the association of TCF4 with cognitive disorders.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The importance of the basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor transcription factor 4 (TCF4) in the nervous system is underlined by its association with common and rare cognitive disorders. In the current study, we show that TCF4-controlled transcription in primary cortical neurons is induced by neuronal activity and protein kinase A. Our results support the hypotheses that dysregulation of neuronal-activity-dependent signaling plays a significant part in the etiology of neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Collapse
|
244
|
Riikonen R. Insulin-Like Growth Factors in the Pathogenesis of Neurological Diseases in Children. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:E2056. [PMID: 28954393 PMCID: PMC5666738 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18102056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factors play a key role for neuronal growth, differentiation, the survival of neurons and synaptic formation. The action of IGF-1 is most pronounced in the developing brain. In this paper we will try to give an answer to the following questions: Why are studies in children important? What clinical studies in neonatal asphyxia, infantile spasms, progressive encephalopathy-hypsarrhythmia-optical atrophy (PEHO) syndrome, infantile ceroid lipofuscinosis (INCL), autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) and subacute sclerosing encephalopathy (SSPE) have been carried out? What are IGF-based therapeutic strategies? What are the therapeutic approaches? We conclude that there are now great hopes for the therapeutic use of IGF-1 for some neurological disorders (particularly ASD).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raili Riikonen
- Child Neurology, Children's Hospital, University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
245
|
Shepherd JD. Arc - An endogenous neuronal retrovirus? Semin Cell Dev Biol 2017; 77:73-78. [PMID: 28941877 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2017.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The neuronal gene Arc is essential for long-lasting information storage in the mammalian brain and has been implicated in various neurological disorders. However, little is known about Arc's evolutionary origins. Recent studies suggest that mammalian Arc originated from a vertebrate lineage of Ty3/gypsy retrotransposons, which are also ancestral to retroviruses. In particular, Arc contains homology to the Gag polyprotein that forms the viral capsid and is essential for viral infectivity. This surprising connection raises the intriguing possibility that Arc may share molecular characteristics of retroviruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason D Shepherd
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, The University of Utah School of Medicine, 4539 SMBB, 36 S. Wasatch Dr., Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
246
|
Managò F, Papaleo F. Schizophrenia: What's Arc Got to Do with It? Front Behav Neurosci 2017; 11:181. [PMID: 28979198 PMCID: PMC5611489 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2017.00181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Human studies of schizophrenia are now reporting a previously unidentified genetic convergence on postsynaptic signaling complexes such as the activity-regulated cytoskeletal-associated (Arc) gene. However, because this evidence is still very recent, the neurobiological implication of Arc in schizophrenia is still scattered and unrecognized. Here, we first review current and developing findings connecting Arc in schizophrenia. We then highlight recent and previous findings from preclinical mouse models that elucidate how Arc genetic modifications might recapitulate schizophrenia-relevant behavioral phenotypes following the novel Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) framework. Building on this, we finally compare and evaluate several lines of evidence demonstrating that Arc genetics can alter both glutamatergic and dopaminergic systems in a very selective way, again consistent with molecular alterations characteristic of schizophrenia. Despite being only initial, accumulating and compelling data are showing that Arc might be one of the primary biological players in schizophrenia. Synaptic plasticity alterations in the genetic architecture of psychiatric disorders might be a rule, not an exception. Thus, we anticipate that additional evidence will soon emerge to clarify the Arc-dependent mechanisms involved in the psychiatric-related dysfunctional behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Managò
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di TecnologiaGenova, Italy
| | - Francesco Papaleo
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di TecnologiaGenova, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
247
|
Autism spectrum disorders and disease modeling using stem cells. Cell Tissue Res 2017; 371:153-160. [PMID: 28918504 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-017-2685-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) represent a variety of disorders characterized as complex lifelong neurodevelopment disabilities, which may affect the ability of communication and socialization, including typical comportments like repetitive and stereotyped behavior. Other comorbidities are usually present, such as echolalia, hypotonia, intellectual disability and difficulties in processing figured speech. Furthermore, some ASD individuals may present certain abilities, such as eidetic memory, outstanding musical or painting talents and special mathematical skills, among others. Considering the variability of the clinical symptoms, one autistic individual can be severely affected in communication while others can speak perfectly, sometimes having a vocabulary above average in early childhood. The same variability can be seen in other clinical symptoms, thus the "spectrum" can vary from severe to mild. Induced pluripotent stem cell technology has been used to model several neurological diseases, including syndromic and non-syndromic autism. We discuss how modeling the central nervous system cells in a dish may help to reach a better understanding of ASD pathology and variability, as well as personalize their treatment.
Collapse
|
248
|
Szkop KJ, Cooke PIC, Humphries JA, Kalna V, Moss DS, Schuster EF, Nobeli I. Dysregulation of Alternative Poly-adenylation as a Potential Player in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:279. [PMID: 28955198 PMCID: PMC5601403 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
We present here the hypothesis that alternative poly-adenylation (APA) is dysregulated in the brains of individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), due to disruptions in the calcium signaling networks. APA, the process of selecting different poly-adenylation sites on the same gene, yielding transcripts with different-length 3′ untranslated regions (UTRs), has been documented in different tissues, stages of development and pathologic conditions. Differential use of poly-adenylation sites has been shown to regulate the function, stability, localization and translation efficiency of target RNAs. However, the role of APA remains rather unexplored in neurodevelopmental conditions. In the human brain, where transcripts have the longest 3′ UTRs and are thus likely to be under more complex post-transcriptional regulation, erratic APA could be particularly detrimental. In the context of ASD, a condition that affects individuals in markedly different ways and whose symptoms exhibit a spectrum of severity, APA dysregulation could be amplified or dampened depending on the individual and the extent of the effect on specific genes would likely vary with genetic and environmental factors. If this hypothesis is correct, dysregulated APA events might be responsible for certain aspects of the phenotypes associated with ASD. Evidence supporting our hypothesis is derived from standard RNA-seq transcriptomic data but we suggest that future experiments should focus on techniques that probe the actual poly-adenylation site (3′ sequencing). To address issues arising from the use of post-mortem tissue and low numbers of heterogeneous samples affected by confounding factors (such as the age, gender and health of the individuals), carefully controlled in vitro systems will be required to model the effect of calcium signaling dysregulation in the ASD brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof J Szkop
- Department of Biological Sciences, Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of LondonLondon, United Kingdom
| | - Peter I C Cooke
- Department of Biological Sciences, Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of LondonLondon, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne A Humphries
- Department of Biological Sciences, Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of LondonLondon, United Kingdom
| | - Viktoria Kalna
- Department of Biological Sciences, Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of LondonLondon, United Kingdom
| | - David S Moss
- Department of Biological Sciences, Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of LondonLondon, United Kingdom
| | | | - Irene Nobeli
- Department of Biological Sciences, Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of LondonLondon, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
249
|
Kang MS, Choi TY, Ryu HG, Lee D, Lee SH, Choi SY, Kim KT. Autism-like behavior caused by deletion of vaccinia-related kinase 3 is improved by TrkB stimulation. J Exp Med 2017; 214:2947-2966. [PMID: 28899869 PMCID: PMC5626391 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20160974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2016] [Revised: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Kang et al. showed that reduced vaccinia-related kinase 3 (VRK3) expression affects synaptic structure and function and results in cognitive dysfunction and autism-like behaviors in mice. TrkB stimulation reverses the altered synaptic properties and restores autism-like behaviors in VRK3-deficient mice. Vaccinia-related kinases (VRKs) are multifaceted serine/threonine kinases that play essential roles in various aspects of cell signaling, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and neuronal development and differentiation. However, the neuronal function of VRK3 is still unknown despite its etiological potential in human autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Here, we report that VRK3-deficient mice exhibit typical symptoms of autism-like behavior, including hyperactivity, stereotyped behaviors, reduced social interaction, and impaired context-dependent spatial memory. A significant decrease in dendritic spine number and arborization were identified in the hippocampus CA1 of VRK3-deficient mice. These mice also exhibited a reduced rectification of AMPA receptor–mediated current and changes in expression of synaptic and signaling proteins, including tyrosine receptor kinase B (TrkB), Arc, and CaMKIIα. Notably, TrkB stimulation with 7,8-dihydroxyflavone reversed the altered synaptic structure and function and successfully restored autism-like behavior in VRK3-deficient mice. These results reveal that VRK3 plays a critical role in neurodevelopmental disorders and suggest a potential therapeutic strategy for ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Myung-Su Kang
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Yong Choi
- Department of Physiology, Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University School of Dentistry, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Guk Ryu
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, Republic of Korea
| | - Dohyun Lee
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Hyun Lee
- Department of Physiology, Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University School of Dentistry, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Se-Young Choi
- Department of Physiology, Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University School of Dentistry, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyong-Tai Kim
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, Republic of Korea .,Division of Integrative Biosciences and Biotechnology, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
250
|
Misregulation of an Activity-Dependent Splicing Network as a Common Mechanism Underlying Autism Spectrum Disorders. Mol Cell 2017; 64:1023-1034. [PMID: 27984743 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2016.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Revised: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
A key challenge in understanding and ultimately treating autism is to identify common molecular mechanisms underlying this genetically heterogeneous disorder. Transcriptomic profiling of autistic brains has revealed correlated misregulation of the neuronal splicing regulator nSR100/SRRM4 and its target microexon splicing program in more than one-third of analyzed individuals. To investigate whether nSR100 misregulation is causally linked to autism, we generated mutant mice with reduced levels of this protein and its target splicing program. Remarkably, these mice display multiple autistic-like features, including altered social behaviors, synaptic density, and signaling. Moreover, increased neuronal activity, which is often associated with autism, results in a rapid decrease in nSR100 and splicing of microexons that significantly overlap those misregulated in autistic brains. Collectively, our results provide evidence that misregulation of an nSR100-dependent splicing network controlled by changes in neuronal activity is causally linked to a substantial fraction of autism cases.
Collapse
|