1
|
Lei L, Wang YF, Chen CY, Wang YT, Zhang Y. Novel insight into astrocyte-mediated gliotransmission modulates the synaptic plasticity in major depressive disorder. Life Sci 2024; 355:122988. [PMID: 39153595 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a form of glial cell-based synaptic dysfunction disease in which glial cells interact closely with neuronal synapses and perform synaptic information processing. Glial cells, particularly astrocytes, are active components of the brain and are responsible for synaptic activity through the release gliotransmitters. A reduced density of astrocytes and astrocyte dysfunction have both been identified the brains of patients with MDD. Furthermore, gliotransmission, i.e., active information transfer mediated by gliotransmitters between astrocytes and neurons, is thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of MDD. However, the mechanism by which astrocyte-mediated gliotransmission contributes to depression remains unknown. This review therefore summarizes the alterations in astrocytes in MDD, including astrocyte marker, connexin 43 (Cx43) expression, Cx43 gap junctions, and Cx43 hemichannels, and describes the regulatory mechanisms of astrocytes involved in synaptic plasticity. Additionally, we investigate the mechanisms acting of the glutamatergic, gamma-aminobutyric acidergic, and purinergic systems that modulate synaptic function and the antidepressant mechanisms of the related receptor antagonists. Further, we summarize the roles of glutamate, gamma-aminobutyric acid, d-serine, and adenosine triphosphate in depression, providing a basis for the identification of diagnostic and therapeutic targets for MDD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lan Lei
- Department of Anatomy, School of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Fei Wang
- Department of Anatomy, School of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Cong-Ya Chen
- Department of Anatomy, School of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ya-Ting Wang
- Department of Anatomy, School of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, School of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Pramanik S, Devi M H, Chakrabarty S, Paylar B, Pradhan A, Thaker M, Ayyadhury S, Manavalan A, Olsson PE, Pramanik G, Heese K. Microglia signaling in health and disease - Implications in sex-specific brain development and plasticity. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 165:105834. [PMID: 39084583 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Revised: 07/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Microglia, the intrinsic neuroimmune cells residing in the central nervous system (CNS), exert a pivotal influence on brain development, homeostasis, and functionality, encompassing critical roles during both aging and pathological states. Recent advancements in comprehending brain plasticity and functions have spotlighted conspicuous variances between male and female brains, notably in neurogenesis, neuronal myelination, axon fasciculation, and synaptogenesis. Nevertheless, the precise impact of microglia on sex-specific brain cell plasticity, sculpting diverse neural network architectures and circuits, remains largely unexplored. This article seeks to unravel the present understanding of microglial involvement in brain development, plasticity, and function, with a specific emphasis on microglial signaling in brain sex polymorphism. Commencing with an overview of microglia in the CNS and their associated signaling cascades, we subsequently probe recent revelations regarding molecular signaling by microglia in sex-dependent brain developmental plasticity, functions, and diseases. Notably, C-X3-C motif chemokine receptor 1 (CX3CR1), triggering receptors expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2), calcium (Ca2+), and apolipoprotein E (APOE) emerge as molecular candidates significantly contributing to sex-dependent brain development and plasticity. In conclusion, we address burgeoning inquiries surrounding microglia's pivotal role in the functional diversity of developing and aging brains, contemplating their potential implications for gender-tailored therapeutic strategies in neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Subrata Pramanik
- Jyoti and Bhupat Mehta School of Health Sciences and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India.
| | - Harini Devi M
- Jyoti and Bhupat Mehta School of Health Sciences and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
| | - Saswata Chakrabarty
- Jyoti and Bhupat Mehta School of Health Sciences and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India
| | - Berkay Paylar
- Biology, The Life Science Center, School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, Örebro 70182, Sweden
| | - Ajay Pradhan
- Biology, The Life Science Center, School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, Örebro 70182, Sweden
| | - Manisha Thaker
- Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories, Inc., 2425 New Holland Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601, USA
| | - Shamini Ayyadhury
- The Donnelly Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Arulmani Manavalan
- Department of Cariology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600077, India
| | - Per-Erik Olsson
- Biology, The Life Science Center, School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, Örebro 70182, Sweden
| | - Gopal Pramanik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi, Jharkhand 835215, India.
| | - Klaus Heese
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 133791, the Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wilson JD, Dworsky-Fried M, Ismail N. Neurodevelopmental implications of COVID-19-induced gut microbiome dysbiosis in pregnant women. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 165:104300. [PMID: 39004033 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
The global public health emergency of COVID-19 in January 2020 prompted a surge in research focusing on the pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of the virus. While numerous reports have been published on the acute effects of COVID-19 infection, the review explores the multifaceted long-term implications of COVID-19, with a particular focus on severe maternal COVID-19 infection, gut microbiome dysbiosis, and neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring. Severe COVID-19 infection has been associated with heightened immune system activation and gastrointestinal symptoms. Severe COVID-19 may also result in gut microbiome dysbiosis and a compromised intestinal mucosal barrier, often referred to as 'leaky gut'. Increased gut permeability facilitates the passage of inflammatory cytokines, originating from the inflamed intestinal mucosa and gut, into the bloodstream, thereby influencing fetal development during pregnancy and potentially elevating the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and schizophrenia. The current review discusses the role of cytokine signaling molecules, microglia, and synaptic pruning, highlighting their potential involvement in the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental disorders following maternal COVID-19 infection. Additionally, this review addresses the potential of probiotic interventions to mitigate gut dysbiosis and inflammatory responses associated with COVID-19, offering avenues for future research in optimizing maternal and fetal health outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob D Wilson
- NISE Laboratory, School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 9A4, Canada
| | - Michaela Dworsky-Fried
- NISE Laboratory, School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 9A4, Canada
| | - Nafissa Ismail
- NISE Laboratory, School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 9A4, Canada; LIFE Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada; University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Qu L, Xu S, Lan Z, Fang S, Xu Y, Zhu X. Apolipoprotein E in Alzheimer's Disease: Focus on Synaptic Function and Therapeutic Strategy. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04449-1. [PMID: 39214953 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04449-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Synaptic dysfunction is a critical pathological feature in the early phase of Alzheimer's disease (AD) that precedes typical hallmarks of AD, including beta-amyloid (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. However, the underlying mechanism of synaptic dysfunction remains incompletely defined. Apolipoprotein E (APOE) has been shown to play a key role in the pathogenesis of AD, and the ε4 allele of APOE remains the strongest genetic risk factor for sporadic AD. It is widely recognized that APOE4 accelerates the development of Aβ and tau pathology in AD. Recent studies have indicated that APOE affects synaptic function through a variety of pathways. Here, we summarize the mechanism of modulating synapses by various APOE isoforms and demonstrate the therapeutic potential by targeting APOE4 for AD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Longjie Qu
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Shuai Xu
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Zhen Lan
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Shuang Fang
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yun Xu
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, China
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Institute of Translational Medicine for Brain Critical Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
- Nanjing Neurology Clinical Medical Center, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Xiaolei Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, China.
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Institute of Translational Medicine for Brain Critical Diseases, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China.
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China.
- Nanjing Neurology Clinical Medical Center, Nanjing, 210008, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Akinlaja YO, Nishiyama A. Glial modulation of synapse development and plasticity: oligodendrocyte precursor cells as a new player in the synaptic quintet. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1418100. [PMID: 39258226 PMCID: PMC11385347 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1418100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Synaptic communication is an important process in the central nervous system that allows for the rapid and spatially specified transfer of signals. Neurons receive various synaptic inputs and generate action potentials required for information transfer, and these inputs can be excitatory or inhibitory, which collectively determines the output. Non-neuronal cells (glial cells) have been identified as crucial participants in influencing neuronal activity and synaptic transmission, with astrocytes forming tripartite synapses and microglia pruning synapses. While it has been known that oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) receive neuronal inputs, whether they also influence neuronal activity and synaptic transmission has remained unknown for two decades. Recent findings indicate that OPCs, too, modulate neuronal synapses. In this review, we discuss the roles of different glial cell types at synapses, including the recently discovered involvement of OPCs in synaptic transmission and synapse refinement, and discuss overlapping roles played by multiple glial cell types.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yetunde O Akinlaja
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- Institute of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- Institute of Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Akiko Nishiyama
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- Institute of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- Institute of Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mendoza-Romero HN, Biddinger JE, Bedenbaugh MN, Simerly RB. Microglia are Required for Developmental Specification of AgRP Innervation in the Hypothalamus of Offspring Exposed to Maternal High Fat Diet During Lactation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.12.607566. [PMID: 39185162 PMCID: PMC11343114 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.12.607566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Nutritional fluctuations that occur early in life dictate metabolic adaptations that will affect susceptibility to weight gain and obesity later in life. The postnatal period in mice represents a time of dynamic changes in hypothalamic development and maternal consumption of a high fat diet during the lactation period (MHFD) changes the composition of milk and leads to enhanced susceptibility to obesity in offspring. Agouti-related peptide (AgRP) neurons in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus (ARH) react to changes in multiple metabolic signals and distribute neuroendocrine information to other brain regions, such as the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus (PVH), which is known to integrate a variety of signals that regulate body weight. Development of neural projections from AgRP neurons to the PVH occurs during the lactation period and these projections are reduced in MHFD offspring, but underlying developmental mechanisms remain largely unknown. Microglia are the resident immune cells of the central nervous system and are involved in refinement of neural connections and modulation of synaptic transmission. Because high fat diet exposure causes activation of microglia in adults, a similar activation may occur in offspring exposed to MHFD and play a role in sculpting hypothalamic feeding circuitry. Genetically targeted axonal labeling and immunohistochemistry were used to visualize AgRP axons and microglia in postnatal mice derived from MHFD dams and morphological changes quantified. The results demonstrate regionally localized changes to microglial morphology in the PVH of MHFD offspring that suggest enhanced surveillance activity and are temporally restricted to the period when AgRP neurons innervate the PVH. In addition, axon labeling experiments confirm a significant decrease in AgRP innervation of the PVH in MHFD offspring and provide direct evidence of synaptic pruning of AgRP inputs to the PVH. Microglial depletion with the Colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor inhibitor PLX5622 determined that the decrease in AgRP innervation observed in MHFD offspring is dependent on microglia, and that microglia are required for weight gain that emerges as early as weaning in offspring of MHFD dams. However, these changes do not appear to be dependent on the degree of microglial mediated synaptic pruning. Together, these findings suggest that microglia are activated by exposure to MHFD and interact directly with AgRP axons during development to permanently alter their density, with implications for developmental programming of metabolic phenotype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jessica E. Biddinger
- Dept of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Michelle N. Bedenbaugh
- Dept of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Richard B. Simerly
- Dept of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Crews FT, Coleman LG, Macht VA, Vetreno RP. Alcohol, HMGB1, and Innate Immune Signaling in the Brain. Alcohol Res 2024; 44:04. [PMID: 39135668 PMCID: PMC11318841 DOI: 10.35946/arcr.v44.1.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Binge drinking (i.e., consuming enough alcohol to achieve a blood ethanol concentration of 80 mg/dL, approximately 4-5 drinks within 2 hours), particularly in early adolescence, can promote progressive increases in alcohol drinking and alcohol-related problems that develop into compulsive use in the chronic relapsing disease, alcohol use disorder (AUD). Over the past decade, neuroimmune signaling has been discovered to contribute to alcohol-induced changes in drinking, mood, and neurodegeneration. This review presents a mechanistic hypothesis supporting high mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB1) and Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling as key elements of alcohol-induced neuroimmune signaling across glia and neurons, which shifts gene transcription and synapses, altering neuronal networks that contribute to the development of AUD. This hypothesis may help guide further research on prevention and treatment. SEARCH METHODS The authors used the search terms "HMGB1 protein," "alcohol," and "brain" across PubMed, Scopus, and Embase to find articles published between 1991 and 2023. SEARCH RESULTS The database search found 54 references in PubMed, 47 in Scopus, and 105 in Embase. A total of about 100 articles were included. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS In the brain, immune signaling molecules play a role in normal development that differs from their functions in inflammation and the immune response, although cellular receptors and signaling are shared. In adults, pro-inflammatory signals have emerged as contributing to brain adaptation in stress, depression, AUD, and neurodegenerative diseases. HMGB1, a cytokine-like signaling protein released from activated cells, including neurons, is hypothesized to activate pro-inflammatory signals through TLRs that contribute to adaptations to binge and chronic heavy drinking. HMGB1 alone and in heteromers with other molecules activates TLRs and other immune receptors that spread signaling across neurons and glia. Both blood and brain levels of HMGB1 increase with ethanol exposure. In rats, an adolescent intermittent ethanol (AIE) binge drinking model persistently increases brain HMGB1 and its receptors; alters microglia, forebrain cholinergic neurons, and neuronal networks; and increases alcohol drinking and anxiety while disrupting cognition. Studies of human postmortem AUD brain have found elevated levels of HMGB1 and TLRs. These signals reduce cholinergic neurons, whereas microglia, the brain's immune cells, are activated by binge drinking. Microglia regulate synapses through complement proteins that can change networks affected by AIE that increase drinking, contributing to risks for AUD. Anti-inflammatory drugs, exercise, cholinesterase inhibitors, and histone deacetylase epigenetic inhibitors prevent and reverse the AIE-induced pathology. Further, HMGB1 antagonists and other anti-inflammatory treatments may provide new therapies for alcohol misuse and AUD. Collectively, these findings suggest that restoring the innate immune signaling balance is central to recovering from alcohol-related pathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fulton T. Crews
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Leon G. Coleman
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Victoria A. Macht
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Ryan P. Vetreno
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Brockie S, Zhou C, Fehlings MG. Resident immune responses to spinal cord injury: role of astrocytes and microglia. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1678-1685. [PMID: 38103231 PMCID: PMC10960308 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.389630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury can be traumatic or non-traumatic in origin, with the latter rising in incidence and prevalence with the aging demographics of our society. Moreover, as the global population ages, individuals with co-existent degenerative spinal pathology comprise a growing number of traumatic spinal cord injury cases, especially involving the cervical spinal cord. This makes recovery and treatment approaches particularly challenging as age and comorbidities may limit regenerative capacity. For these reasons, it is critical to better understand the complex milieu of spinal cord injury lesion pathobiology and the ensuing inflammatory response. This review discusses microglia-specific purinergic and cytokine signaling pathways, as well as microglial modulation of synaptic stability and plasticity after injury. Further, we evaluate the role of astrocytes in neurotransmission and calcium signaling, as well as their border-forming response to neural lesions. Both the inflammatory and reparative roles of these cells have eluded our complete understanding and remain key therapeutic targets due to their extensive structural and functional roles in the nervous system. Recent advances have shed light on the roles of glia in neurotransmission and reparative injury responses that will change how interventions are directed. Understanding key processes and existing knowledge gaps will allow future research to effectively target these cells and harness their regenerative potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sydney Brockie
- Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Cindy Zhou
- Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael G. Fehlings
- Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery and Spine Program, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Leavy A, Phelan J, Jimenez-Mateos EM. Contribution of microglia to the epileptiform activity that results from neonatal hypoxia. Neuropharmacology 2024; 253:109968. [PMID: 38692453 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.109968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Microglia are described as the immune cells of the brain, their immune properties have been extensively studied since first described, however, their neural functions have only been explored over the last decade. Microglia have an important role in maintaining homeostasis in the central nervous system by surveying their surroundings to detect pathogens or damage cells. While these are the classical functions described for microglia, more recently their neural functions have been defined; they are critical to the maturation of neurons during embryonic and postnatal development, phagocytic microglia remove excess synapses during development, a process called synaptic pruning, which is important to overall neural maturation. Furthermore, microglia can respond to neuronal activity and, together with astrocytes, can regulate neural activity, contributing to the equilibrium between excitation and inhibition through a feedback loop. Hypoxia at birth is a serious neurological condition that disrupts normal brain function resulting in seizures and epilepsy later in life. Evidence has shown that microglia may contribute to this hyperexcitability after neonatal hypoxia. This review will summarize the existing data on the role of microglia in the pathogenesis of neonatal hypoxia and the plausible mechanisms that contribute to the development of hyperexcitability after hypoxia in neonates. This article is part of the Special Issue on "Microglia".
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aisling Leavy
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jessie Phelan
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Eva M Jimenez-Mateos
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Dolan K, Liao SM, Crowley M, Xiang C, Adams CM, Brown A, Vo N, Chen A, Delgado O, Buchanan N, Guo C, Prasanna G. Complement Factor B Inhibition or Deletion Is Not Sufficient to Prevent Neurodegeneration in a Murine Model of Glaucoma. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2024. [PMID: 38976487 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2024.0046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Activation of the classical complement pathway is thought to contribute to the development and progression of glaucoma. The role of alternative complement or amplification pathways in glaucoma is not well understood. We evaluated complement factor B (FB) expression in postmortem human ocular tissues with or without glaucoma and the effect of FB inhibition and deletion in a mouse ocular hypertensive model of glaucoma induced by photopolymerized hyaluronic acid glycidyl methacrylate (HAGM). Methods: Human CFB mRNA in human eyes was assessed by RNAscope and TaqMan. HAGM model was performed on C57BL6/J mice. The effect of FB in HAGM model was evaluated with an oral FB inhibitor and Cfb-/- mice. Complement mRNA and proteins in mouse eyes were assessed by TaqMan and western blot, respectively. Results: CFB mRNA in human glaucomatous macular neural retina and optic nerve head was upregulated. Cfb mRNA is also upregulated in the HAGM model. Oral FB inhibitor, ED-79-GX17, dosed daily at 200 mg/kg for 3 days after intraocular pressure (IOP) induction in wild-type mice showed complement inhibition in ocular tissues and significantly inhibited systemic complement levels. Daily dosing of ED-79-GX17 for 30 days or Cfb deletion was also unable to prevent retinal ganglion cell or axon loss 30 days after IOP induction in mice. Conclusion: The alternative complement component FB may not substantially contribute to RGC loss in the HAGM mouse glaucoma model despite upregulation of Cfb expression and activation of the alternative pathway. The relevance of these findings to human glaucoma remains to be determined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katie Dolan
- Ophthalmology, Novartis BioMedical Research (NBR), Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Sha-Mei Liao
- Ophthalmology, Novartis BioMedical Research (NBR), Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Maura Crowley
- Ophthalmology, Novartis BioMedical Research (NBR), Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Chuanxi Xiang
- Ophthalmology, Novartis BioMedical Research (NBR), Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Christopher M Adams
- Global Discovery Chemistry, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research NBR, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Ann Brown
- Discovery/Bioanalytics, Translational Medicine, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research NBR, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Nhi Vo
- Ophthalmology, Novartis BioMedical Research (NBR), Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Amy Chen
- Ophthalmology, Novartis BioMedical Research (NBR), Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Omar Delgado
- Ophthalmology, Novartis BioMedical Research (NBR), Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Natasha Buchanan
- Ophthalmology, Novartis BioMedical Research (NBR), Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Chenying Guo
- Ophthalmology, Novartis BioMedical Research (NBR), Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Ganesh Prasanna
- Ophthalmology, Novartis BioMedical Research (NBR), Cambridge, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Hinkle JJ, Olschowka JA, Williams JP, O'Banion MK. Pharmacologic Manipulation of Complement Receptor 3 Prevents Dendritic Spine Loss and Cognitive Impairment After Acute Cranial Radiation. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2024; 119:912-923. [PMID: 38142839 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cranial irradiation induces healthy tissue damage that can lead to neurocognitive complications, negatively affecting patient quality of life. One damage indicator associated with cognitive impairment is loss of neuronal spine density. We previously demonstrated that irradiation-mediated spine loss is microglial complement receptor 3 (CR3) and sex dependent. We hypothesized that these changes are associated with late-delayed cognitive deficits and amenable to pharmacologic intervention. METHODS AND MATERIALS Our model of cranial irradiation (acute, 10 Gy gamma) used male and female CR3-wild type and CR3-deficient Thy-1 YFP mice of C57BL/6 background. Forty-five days after irradiation and behavioral testing, we quantified spine density and markers of microglial reactivity in the hippocampal dentate gyrus. In a separate experiment, male Thy-1 YFP C57BL/6 mice were treated with leukadherin-1, a modulator of CR3 function. RESULTS We found that male mice demonstrate irradiation-mediated spine loss and cognitive deficits but that female and CR3 knockout mice do not. These changes were associated with greater reactivity of microglia in male mice. Pharmacologic manipulation of CR3 with LA1 prevented spine loss and cognitive deficits in irradiated male mice. CONCLUSIONS This work improves our understanding of irradiation-mediated mechanisms and sex dependent responses and may help identify novel therapeutics to reduce irradiation-induced cognitive decline and improve patient quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua J Hinkle
- Department of Neuroscience and Del Monte Neuroscience Institute
| | | | | | - M Kerry O'Banion
- Department of Neuroscience and Del Monte Neuroscience Institute; Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Berki P, Cserép C, Környei Z, Pósfai B, Szabadits E, Domonkos A, Kellermayer A, Nyerges M, Wei X, Mody I, Kunihiko A, Beck H, Kaikai H, Ya W, Lénárt N, Wu Z, Jing M, Li Y, Gulyás AI, Dénes Á. Microglia contribute to neuronal synchrony despite endogenous ATP-related phenotypic transformation in acute mouse brain slices. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5402. [PMID: 38926390 PMCID: PMC11208608 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49773-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute brain slices represent a workhorse model for studying the central nervous system (CNS) from nanoscale events to complex circuits. While slice preparation inherently involves tissue damage, it is unclear how microglia, the main immune cells and damage sensors of the CNS react to this injury and shape neuronal activity ex vivo. To this end, we investigated microglial phenotypes and contribution to network organization and functioning in acute brain slices. We reveal time-dependent microglial phenotype changes influenced by complex extracellular ATP dynamics through P2Y12R and CX3CR1 signalling, which is sustained for hours in ex vivo mouse brain slices. Downregulation of P2Y12R and changes of microglia-neuron interactions occur in line with alterations in the number of excitatory and inhibitory synapses over time. Importantly, functional microglia modulate synapse sprouting, while microglial dysfunction results in markedly impaired ripple activity both ex vivo and in vivo. Collectively, our data suggest that microglia are modulators of complex neuronal networks with important roles to maintain neuronal network integrity and activity. We suggest that slice preparation can be used to model time-dependent changes of microglia-neuron interactions to reveal how microglia shape neuronal circuits in physiological and pathological conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Péter Berki
- János Szentágothai Doctoral School of Neuroscience, Semmelweis University, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
- Laboratory of Cerebral Cortex Research, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
- Laboratory of Neuronal Network and Behaviour, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Csaba Cserép
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Zsuzsanna Környei
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Balázs Pósfai
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Eszter Szabadits
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Andor Domonkos
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
- Laboratory of Thalamus Research, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Anna Kellermayer
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Miklós Nyerges
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Xiaofei Wei
- Department of Neurology, The David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Istvan Mody
- Department of Neurology, The David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Araki Kunihiko
- Institute of Experimental Epileptology and Cognition Research, Medical University of Bonn, Bonn, 53127, Germany
- University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Heinz Beck
- Institute of Experimental Epileptology and Cognition Research, Medical University of Bonn, Bonn, 53127, Germany
- University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - He Kaikai
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, China
| | - Wang Ya
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, 102206, Beijing, China
| | - Nikolett Lénárt
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Zhaofa Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China
| | - Miao Jing
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, 102206, Beijing, China
| | - Yulong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, China
| | - Attila I Gulyás
- Laboratory of Cerebral Cortex Research, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Ádám Dénes
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
He D, Shi X, Liang L, Zhao Y, Ma S, Cao S, Liu B, Gao Z, Zhang X, Fan Z, Kuang F, Zhang H. Microglial EPOR Contribute to Sevoflurane-induced Developmental Fine Motor Deficits Through Synaptic Pruning in Mice. Neurosci Bull 2024:10.1007/s12264-024-01248-5. [PMID: 38907076 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-024-01248-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Clinical researches including the Mayo Anesthesia Safety in Kids (MASK) study have found that children undergoing multiple anesthesia may have a higher risk of fine motor control difficulties. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we report that erythropoietin receptor (EPOR), a microglial receptor associated with phagocytic activity, was significantly downregulated in the medial prefrontal cortex of young mice after multiple sevoflurane anesthesia exposure. Importantly, we found that the inhibited erythropoietin (EPO)/EPOR signaling axis led to microglial polarization, excessive excitatory synaptic pruning, and abnormal fine motor control skills in mice with multiple anesthesia exposure, and those above-mentioned situations were fully reversed by supplementing EPO-derived peptide ARA290 by intraperitoneal injection. Together, the microglial EPOR was identified as a key mediator regulating early synaptic development in this study, which impacted sevoflurane-induced fine motor dysfunction. Moreover, ARA290 might serve as a new treatment against neurotoxicity induced by general anesthesia in clinical practice by targeting the EPO/EPOR signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danyi He
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, Department of Anesthesiology, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Xiaotong Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, Department of Anesthesiology, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Lirong Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, Department of Anesthesiology, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Youyi Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, Department of Anesthesiology, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Sanxing Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, Department of Anesthesiology, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Shuhui Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, Department of Anesthesiology, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Bing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, Department of Anesthesiology, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Zhenzhen Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, Department of Anesthesiology, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, Department of Anesthesiology, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Ze Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, Department of Anesthesiology, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
- Department of Neurobiology and Institute of Neurosciences, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
| | - Fang Kuang
- Department of Neurobiology and Institute of Neurosciences, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
| | - Hui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, Department of Anesthesiology, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ge Q, Zhou S, Porras J, Fu P, Wang T, Du J, Li K. SARS-CoV-2 neurotropism-induced anxiety/depression-like behaviors require Microglia activation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.10.02.560570. [PMID: 37873397 PMCID: PMC10592887 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.02.560570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has been associated with a wide range of "long COVID" neurological symptoms. However, the mechanisms governing SARS-CoV-2 neurotropism and its effects on long-term behavioral changes remain poorly understood. Using a highly virulent mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2 strain, denoted as SARS2-N501Y MA30 , we demonstrated that intranasal inoculation of SARS2-N501Y MA30 results in viral dissemination to multiple brain regions, including the amygdala and hippocampus. Behavioral assays indicated a marked elevation in anxiety- and depression-like behaviors post infection. A comparative analysis of RNA expression profiles disclosed alterations in the post-infected brains. Additionally, we observed dendritic spine remodeling on neurons within the amygdala after infection. Infection with SARS2-N501Y MA30 was associated with microglial activation and a subsequent increase in microglia-dependent neuronal activity in the amygdala. Pharmacological inhibition of microglial activity subsequent to viral spike inoculation mitigates microglia-dependent neuronal hyperactivity. Transcriptomic analysis of infected brains revealed the upregulation of inflammatory and cytokine-related pathways, implicating microglia-driven neuroinflammation in the pathogenesis of neuronal hyperactivity and behavioral abnormality. Overall, these data provide critical insights into the neurological consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection and underscore microglia as a potential therapeutic target for ameliorating virus-induced neurobehavioral abnormalities.
Collapse
|
15
|
Perez-Pouchoulen M, Holley AS, Reinl EL, VanRyzin JW, Mehrabani A, Dionisos C, Mirza M, McCarthy MM. Viral-mediated inflammation by Poly I:C induces the chemokine CCL5 in NK cells and its receptors CCR1 and CCR5 in microglia in the neonatal rat cerebellum. NEUROIMMUNE PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS 2024; 3:155-168. [PMID: 39175524 PMCID: PMC11338497 DOI: 10.1515/nipt-2024-0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Objectives To study the effect of viral inflammation induced by Polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (PIC) on the cerebellum during a critical period of development in rats. Methods Neonatal rat pups were treated with PIC on postnatal days (PN) 8 and 10 after which we quantified RNA using Nanostring, qRT-PCR and RNAscope and analyzed immune cells through flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry on PN11. Using the same paradigm, we also analyzed play juvenile behavior, anxiety-like behavior, motor balance using the balance beam and the rotarod assays as well as fine motor behavior using the sunflower seed opening test. Results We determined that male and female pups treated with PIC reacted with a significant increase in CCL5, a chemotactic cytokine that attracts T-cells, eosinophils and basophils to the site of inflammation, at PN11. PIC treatment also increased the expression of two receptors for CCL5, CCR1 and CCR5 in the cerebellar vermis in both males and females at PN11. In-situ hybridization (RNAscope®) for specific transcripts revealed that microglia express both CCL5 receptors under inflammatory and non-inflammatory conditions in both males and females. PIC treatment also increased the total number of CCL5+ cells in the developing cerebellum which were determined to be both natural killer cells and T-cells. There were modest but significant impacts of PIC treatment on large and fine motor skills and juvenile play behavior. Conclusions Our findings suggest an important role for CCL5 and other immune cells in mediating inflammation in the developing cerebellum that potentially impact the maturation of cerebellar neurons during a critical period of development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Amanda S. Holley
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Erin L. Reinl
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jonathan W. VanRyzin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Amir Mehrabani
- Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Christie Dionisos
- Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Muhammed Mirza
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Margaret M. McCarthy
- Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- UM-MIND, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Beaver M, Bergdolt L, Dunaevsky A, Kielian T, Skar GL. C1q is elevated during chronic Staphylococcus epidermidis central nervous system catheter infection. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1342467. [PMID: 38881889 PMCID: PMC11176433 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1342467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Significant neurologic morbidity is caused by pediatric cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt infections. The underlying mechanisms leading to impaired school performance and increased risk of seizures are unknown, however, a better understanding of these mechanisms may allow us to temper their consequences. Recent evidence has demonstrated important roles for complement proteins in neurodevelopment and neuroinflammation. Methods We examined complement activation throughout Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis) central nervous system (CNS) catheter infection. In addition, based on accumulating evidence that C3 plays a role in synaptic pruning in other neuroinflammatory states we determined if C3 and downstream C5 led to alterations in synaptic protein levels. Using our murine model of S. epidermidis catheter infection we quantified levels of the complement components C1q, Factor B, MASP2, C3, and C5 over the course of infection along with bacterial burdens. Results We found that MASP2 predominated early in catheter infection, but that Factor B was elevated at intermediate time points. Unexpectedly C1q was elevated at late timepoints when bacterial burdens were low or undetectable. Based on these findings and the wealth of information regarding the emerging roles of C1q in the CNS, this suggests functions beyond pathogen elimination during S. epidermidis CNS catheter infection. To identify if C3 impacted synaptic protein levels we performed synaptosome isolation and quantified levels of VGLUT1 and PSD95 as well as pre-, post- and total synaptic puncta in cortical layer V of C3 knockout (KO) and wild type mice. We also used C5 KO and wild type mice to determine if there was any difference in pre-, post- and total synaptic puncta. Discussion Neither C3 nor C5 impacted synaptic protein abundance. These findings suggest that chronic elevations in C1q in the brain that persist once CNS catheter infection has resolved may be modulating disease sequalae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Beaver
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Lara Bergdolt
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Anna Dunaevsky
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Tammy Kielian
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Gwenn L Skar
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Pandya VA, Patani R. The role of glial cells in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:381-450. [PMID: 38802179 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has traditionally been considered a neuron-centric disease. This view is now outdated, with increasing recognition of cell autonomous and non-cell autonomous contributions of central and peripheral nervous system glia to ALS pathomechanisms. With glial research rapidly accelerating, we comprehensively interrogate the roles of astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, ependymal cells, Schwann cells and satellite glia in nervous system physiology and ALS-associated pathology. Moreover, we highlight the inter-glial, glial-neuronal and inter-system polylogue which constitutes the healthy nervous system and destabilises in disease. We also propose classification based on function for complex glial reactive phenotypes and discuss the pre-requisite for integrative modelling to advance translation. Given the paucity of life-enhancing therapies currently available for ALS patients, we discuss the promising potential of harnessing glia in driving ALS therapeutic discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virenkumar A Pandya
- University College London Medical School, London, United Kingdom; The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Rickie Patani
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, University College London Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Danis AB, Gallagher AA, Anderson AN, Isakharov A, Beeson KA, Schnell E. Altered Hippocampal Activation in Seizure-Prone CACNA2D2 Knock-out Mice. eNeuro 2024; 11:ENEURO.0486-23.2024. [PMID: 38749701 PMCID: PMC11097259 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0486-23.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The voltage-gated calcium channel subunit α2δ-2 controls calcium-dependent signaling in neurons, and loss of this subunit causes epilepsy in both mice and humans. To determine whether mice without α2δ-2 demonstrate hippocampal activation or histopathological changes associated with seizure activity, we measured expression of the activity-dependent gene c-fos and various histopathological correlates of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) in hippocampal tissue from wild-type (WT) and α2δ-2 knock-out (CACNA2D2 KO) mice using immunohistochemical staining and confocal microscopy. Both genotypes demonstrated similarly sparse c-fos and ΔFosB expressions within the hippocampal dentate granule cell layer (GCL) at baseline, consistent with no difference in basal activity of granule cells between genotypes. Surprisingly, when mice were assayed 1 h after handling-associated convulsions, KO mice had fewer c-fos-positive cells but dramatically increased ΔFosB expression in the dentate gyrus compared with WT mice. After administration of a subthreshold pentylenetetrazol dose, however, KO mice dentate had significantly more c-fos expression compared with WT mice. Other histopathological markers of TLE in these mice, including markers of neurogenesis, glial activation, and mossy fiber sprouting, were similar between WT and KO mice, apart from a small but statistically significant increase in hilar mossy cell density, opposite to what is typically found in mice with TLE. This suggests that the differences in seizure-associated dentate gyrus function in the absence of α2δ-2 protein are likely due to altered functional properties of the network without associated structural changes in the hippocampus at the typical age of seizure onset.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa B Danis
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
- Research and Development Service, Portland VA Health Care System, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Ashlynn A Gallagher
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
- Research and Development Service, Portland VA Health Care System, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Ashley N Anderson
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
- Research and Development Service, Portland VA Health Care System, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Arielle Isakharov
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Kathleen A Beeson
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Eric Schnell
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
- Research and Development Service, Portland VA Health Care System, Portland, Oregon 97239
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wu X, Liu Y, Wang X, Zheng L, Pan L, Wang H. Developmental Impairments of Synaptic Refinement in the Thalamus of a Mouse Model of Fragile X Syndrome. Neurosci Bull 2024; 40:439-450. [PMID: 38015349 PMCID: PMC11004103 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-023-01142-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
While somatosensory over-reactivity is a common feature of autism spectrum disorders such as fragile X syndrome (FXS), the thalamic mechanisms underlying this remain unclear. Here, we found that the developmental elimination of synapses formed between the principal nucleus of V (PrV) and the ventral posterior medial nucleus (VPm) of the somatosensory system was delayed in fragile X mental retardation 1 gene knockout (Fmr1 KO) mice, while the developmental strengthening of these synapses was disrupted. Immunohistochemistry showed excessive VGluT2 puncta in mutants at P12-13, but not at P7-8 or P15-16, confirming a delay in somatic pruning of PrV-VPm synapses. Impaired synaptic function was associated with a reduction in the frequency of quantal AMPA events, as well as developmental deficits in presynaptic vesicle size and density. Our results uncovered the developmental impairment of thalamic relay synapses in Fmr1 KO mice and suggest that a thalamic contribution to the somatosensory over-reactivity in FXS should be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotong Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery of Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Education Ministry, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Nanhu Brain-computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou, 311100, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain Machine Integration, Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological Diseases, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yali Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery of Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Education Ministry, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain Machine Integration, Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological Diseases, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xiaomeng Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery of Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Education Ministry, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Nanhu Brain-computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou, 311100, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain Machine Integration, Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological Diseases, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Lu Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery of Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Education Ministry, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain Machine Integration, Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological Diseases, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Libiao Pan
- Department of Neurosurgery of Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Education Ministry, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain Machine Integration, Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological Diseases, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery of Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Education Ministry, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Nanhu Brain-computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou, 311100, China.
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain Machine Integration, Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological Diseases, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, 200031, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Gauer C, Battis K, Schneider Y, Florio JB, Mante M, Kim HY, Rissman RA, Hoffmann A, Winkler J. CSF1R-mediated myeloid cell depletion shifts the ratio of motor cortical excitatory to inhibitory neurons in a multiple system atrophy model. Exp Neurol 2024; 374:114706. [PMID: 38311020 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Motor cortical circuit functions depend on the coordinated fine-tuning of two functionally diverse neuronal populations: glutamatergic pyramidal neurons providing synaptic excitation and GABAergic interneurons adjusting the response of pyramidal neurons through synaptic inhibition. Microglia are brain resident macrophages which dynamically refine cortical circuits by monitoring perineuronal extracellular matrix and remodelling synapses. Previously, we showed that colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R)-mediated myeloid cell depletion extended the lifespan, but impaired motor functions of MBP29 mice, a mouse model for multiple system atrophy. In order to better understand the mechanisms underlying these motor deficits we characterized the microglial involvement in the cortical balance of GABAergic interneurons and glutamatergic pyramidal neurons in 4-months-old MBP29 mice following CSF1R inhibition for 12 weeks. Lack of myeloid cells resulted in a decreased number of COUP TF1 interacting protein 2-positive (CTIP2+) layer V pyramidal neurons, however in a proportional increase of calretinin-positive GABAergic interneurons in MBP29 mice. While myeloid cell depletion did not alter the expression of important presynaptic and postsynaptic proteins, the loss of cortical perineuronal net area was attenuated by CSF1R inhibition in MBP29 mice. These cortical changes may restrict synaptic plasticity and potentially modify parvalbumin-positive perisomatic input. Collectively, this study suggests, that the lack of myeloid cells shifts the neuronal balance toward an increased inhibitory connectivity in the motor cortex of MBP29 mice thereby potentially deteriorating motor functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Gauer
- Department of Molecular Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - K Battis
- Department of Molecular Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Y Schneider
- Department of Molecular Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - J B Florio
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - M Mante
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - H Y Kim
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - R A Rissman
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - A Hoffmann
- Department of Molecular Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany; UK Dementia Research Institute at The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science and Barlo Multiple Sclerosis Centre, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - J Winkler
- Department of Molecular Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ryan KS, Karpf JA, Chan CN, Hagen OL, McFarland TJ, Urian JW, Wang X, Boniface ER, Hakar MH, Terrobias JJD, Graham JA, Passmore S, Grant KA, Sullivan EL, Grafe MR, Saugstad JA, Kroenke CD, Lo JO. Prenatal delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol exposure alters fetal neurodevelopment in rhesus macaques. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5808. [PMID: 38461359 PMCID: PMC10924959 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56386-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Prenatal cannabis use is associated with adverse offspring neurodevelopmental outcomes, however the underlying mechanisms are relatively unknown. We sought to determine the impact of chronic delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) exposure on fetal neurodevelopment in a rhesus macaque model using advanced imaging combined with molecular and tissue studies. Animals were divided into two groups, control (n = 5) and THC-exposed (n = 5), which received a daily THC edible pre-conception and throughout pregnancy. Fetal T2-weighted MRI was performed at gestational days 85 (G85), G110, G135 and G155 to assess volumetric brain development. At G155, animals underwent cesarean delivery with collection of fetal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for microRNA (miRNA) studies and fetal tissue for histologic analysis. THC exposure was associated with significant age by sex interactions in brain growth, and differences in fetal brain histology suggestive of brain dysregulation. Two extracellular vesicle associated-miRNAs were identified in THC-exposed fetal CSF; pathway analysis suggests that these miRNAs are associated with dysregulated axonal guidance and netrin signaling. This data is indicative of subtle molecular changes consistent with the observed histological data, suggesting a potential role for fetal miRNA regulation by THC. Further studies are needed to determine whether these adverse findings correlate with long-term offspring neurodevelopmental health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly S Ryan
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Mail Code L458, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Joshua A Karpf
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Chi Ngai Chan
- Tissue Technologies Unit, Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Olivia L Hagen
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Trevor J McFarland
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - J Wes Urian
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Mail Code L458, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Xiaojie Wang
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Emily R Boniface
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Mail Code L458, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Melanie H Hakar
- Department of Pathology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Jose Juanito D Terrobias
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Jason A Graham
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Scarlet Passmore
- Integrated Pathology Core, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Kathleen A Grant
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Elinor L Sullivan
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Marjorie R Grafe
- Department of Pathology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Julie A Saugstad
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Christopher D Kroenke
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Jamie O Lo
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Mail Code L458, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Hartmann SM, Heider J, Wüst R, Fallgatter AJ, Volkmer H. Microglia-neuron interactions in schizophrenia. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1345349. [PMID: 38510107 PMCID: PMC10950997 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1345349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple lines of evidence implicate increased neuroinflammation mediated by glial cells to play a key role in neurodevelopmental disorders such as schizophrenia. Microglia, which are the primary innate immune cells of the brain, are crucial for the refinement of the synaptic circuitry during early brain development by synaptic pruning and the regulation of synaptic plasticity during adulthood. Schizophrenia risk factors as genetics or environmental influences may further be linked to increased activation of microglia, an increase of pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and activation of the inflammasome resulting in an overall elevated neuroinflammatory state in patients. Synaptic loss, one of the central pathological hallmarks of schizophrenia, is believed to be due to excess removal of synapses by activated microglia, primarily affecting glutamatergic neurons. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate microglia-neuron interactions, which has been done by multiple studies focusing on post-mortem brain tissues, brain imaging, animal models and patient iPSC-derived 2D culture systems. In this review, we summarize the major findings in patients and in vivo and in vitro models in the context of neuron-microglia interactions in schizophrenia and secondly discuss the potential of anti-inflammatory treatments for the alleviation of positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophia-Marie Hartmann
- Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Pharma and Biotech, NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Johanna Heider
- Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Pharma and Biotech, NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Richard Wüst
- Department of Psychiatry, Tübingen Center for Mental Health (TüCMH), University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Andreas J. Fallgatter
- Department of Psychiatry, Tübingen Center for Mental Health (TüCMH), University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Hansjürgen Volkmer
- Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Pharma and Biotech, NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Olivero G, Taddeucci A, Vallarino G, Trebesova H, Roggeri A, Gagliani MC, Cortese K, Grilli M, Pittaluga A. Complement tunes glutamate release and supports synaptic impairments in an animal model of multiple sclerosis. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38369641 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE To deepen our knowledge of the role of complement in synaptic impairment in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mice, we investigated the distribution of C1q and C3 proteins and the role of complement as a promoter of glutamate release in purified nerve endings (synaptosomes) and astrocytic processes (gliosomes) isolated from the cortex of EAE mice at the acute stage of the disease (21 ± 1 day post-immunization). EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH EAE cortical synaptosomes and gliosomes were analysed for glutamate release efficiency (measured as release of preloaded [3 H]D-aspartate ([3 H]D-ASP)), C1q and C3 protein density, and for viability and ongoing apoptosis. KEY RESULTS In healthy mice, complement releases [3 H]D-ASP from gliosomes more efficiently than from synaptosomes. The releasing activity occurs in a dilution-dependent manner and involves the reversal of the excitatory amino acid transporters (EAATs). In EAE mice, the complement-induced releasing activity is significantly reduced in cortical synaptosomes but amplified in cortical gliosomes. These adaptations are paralleled by decreased density of the EAAT2 protein in synaptosomes and increased EAAT1 staining in gliosomes. Concomitantly, PSD95, GFAP, and CD11b, but not SNAP25, proteins are overexpressed in the cortex of the EAE mice. Similarly, C1q and C3 protein immunostaining is increased in EAE cortical synaptosomes and gliosomes, although signs of ongoing apoptosis or altered viability are not detectable. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our results unveil a new noncanonical role of complement in the CNS of EAE mice relevant to disease progression and central synaptopathy that suggests new therapeutic targets for the management of MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guendalina Olivero
- Department of Pharmacy, DIFAR, Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Alice Taddeucci
- Department of Pharmacy, DIFAR, Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giulia Vallarino
- Department of Pharmacy, DIFAR, Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Hanna Trebesova
- Department of Pharmacy, DIFAR, Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Alessandra Roggeri
- Department of Pharmacy, DIFAR, Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Gagliani
- DIMES, Department of Experimental Medicine, Cellular Electron Microscopy Laboratory, Università di Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Katia Cortese
- DIMES, Department of Experimental Medicine, Cellular Electron Microscopy Laboratory, Università di Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Massimo Grilli
- Department of Pharmacy, DIFAR, Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Anna Pittaluga
- Department of Pharmacy, DIFAR, Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, 3Rs Center, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Puplampu P, Asafu-Adjaye O, Harrison M, Tetteh J, Ganu VJ. Opportunistic Infections among newly diagnosed HIV patients in the largest tertiary facility in Ghana. Ann Glob Health 2024; 90:13. [PMID: 38370863 PMCID: PMC10870955 DOI: 10.5334/aogh.4149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Opportunistic infections (OIs) among newly diagnosed HIV patients are a marker for inadequateness of HIV awareness and testing. Despite global efforts at creating awareness for early detection, late HIV diagnosis and its associated OIs still exist. This study sought to determine the prevalence and patterns of OIs and associated factors among newly diagnosed HIV patients in Ghana. Methods A retrospective study using data extraction was conducted among 423 newly diagnosed HIV patients aged ≥18 years at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital from July 1st 2018 to December 2019. Multivariate logistic regression was adopted to assess factors associated to OIs. Analysis was performed using SPSS version 16, and p-value < 0.05 was deemed significant. Results The mean age of patients with a new HIV diagnosis was 40.15 ± 11.47 years. Male versus female sex differential was 30.3% and 69.7%, respectively. The prevalence of OIs among newly diagnosed HIV patients was 33.1% (95% CI = 34.6-44.1). About 70% (120/166) of patients with OIs were classified into WHO clinical stage III and IV. The most common OIs were candidiasis (oro-pharyhngeal-esophageal) (36.9%), and cerebral toxoplasmosis (19.9%). The odds of an OI at the time of HIV diagnosis among females was 51% lower than in males (aOR = 0.49, 95% CI = 0.28-0.86). Being employed increased the odds of OIs by 2.5 compared to the unemployed (aOR = 2.5; 95% CI = 1.11-5.61). Participants classified as World Health Organization (WHO) HIV clinical stage III and IV were 15.88 (95% CI = 9.41-26.79) times more likely to experience OIs. Conclusion One in three patients newly diagnosed with HIV presented with an opportunistic infection, with men more likely to experience such infections. Significant attention should be given to improving case-finding strategies, especially among men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Puplampu
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Marian Harrison
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ghana Police Hospital, Ghana
| | - John Tetteh
- Community Health Department, University of Ghana Medical School, Ghana
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Bedolla AM, McKinsey GL, Ware K, Santander N, Arnold TD, Luo Y. A comparative evaluation of the strengths and potential caveats of the microglial inducible CreER mouse models. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113660. [PMID: 38217856 PMCID: PMC10874587 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The recent proliferation of new Cre and CreER recombinase lines provides researchers with a diverse toolkit to study microglial gene function. To determine how best to apply these lines in studies of microglial gene function, a thorough and detailed comparison of their properties is needed. Here, we examined four different microglial CreER lines (Cx3cr1YFP-CreER(Litt), Cx3cr1CreER(Jung), P2ry12CreER, and Tmem119CreER), focusing on (1) recombination specificity, (2) leakiness (the degree of tamoxifen-independent recombination in microglia and other cells), (3) the efficiency of tamoxifen-induced recombination, (4) extraneural recombination (the degree of recombination in cells outside of the CNS, particularly myelo/monocyte lineages), and (5) off-target effects in the context of neonatal brain development. We identify important caveats and strengths for these lines, which will provide broad significance for researchers interested in performing conditional gene deletion in microglia. We also provide data emphasizing the potential of these lines for injury models that result in the recruitment of splenic immune cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alicia M Bedolla
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Gabriel L McKinsey
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Kierra Ware
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Nicolas Santander
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de O'Higgins, Rancagua, Chile
| | - Thomas D Arnold
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Yu Luo
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Immunology Graduate Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Harry GJ. Developmental Associations between Neurovascularization and Microglia Colonization. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1281. [PMID: 38279280 PMCID: PMC10816009 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The temporal and spatial pattern of microglia colonization and vascular infiltration of the nervous system implies critical associated roles in early stages of nervous system development. Adding to existing reviews that cover a broad spectrum of the various roles of microglia during brain development, the current review will focus on the developmental ontogeny and interdependency between the colonization of the nervous system with yolk sac derived macrophages and vascularization. Gaining a better understanding of the timing and the interdependency of these two processes will significantly contribute to the interpretation of data generated regarding alterations in either process during early development. Additionally, such knowledge should provide a framework for understanding the influence of the early gestational environmental and the impact of genetics, disease, disorders, or exposures on the early developing nervous system and the potential for long-term and life-time effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Jean Harry
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute Environmental Health Sciences, 111 T.W. Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Luo EY, Sugimura RR. Taming microglia: the promise of engineered microglia in treating neurological diseases. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:19. [PMID: 38212785 PMCID: PMC10785527 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03015-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglia, the CNS-resident immune cells, are implicated in many neurological diseases. Nearly one in six of the world's population suffers from neurological disorders, encompassing neurodegenerative and neuroautoimmune diseases, most with dysregulated neuroinflammation involved. Activated microglia become phagocytotic and secret various immune molecules, which are mediators of the brain immune microenvironment. Given their ability to penetrate through the blood-brain barrier in the neuroinflammatory context and their close interaction with neurons and other glial cells, microglia are potential therapeutic delivery vehicles and modulators of neuronal activity. Re-engineering microglia to treat neurological diseases is, thus, increasingly gaining attention. By altering gene expression, re-programmed microglia can be utilized to deliver therapeutics to targeted sites and control neuroinflammation in various neuroinflammatory diseases. This review addresses the current development in microglial engineering, including genetic targeting and therapeutic modulation. Furthermore, we discuss limitations to the genetic engineering techniques and models used to test the functionality of re-engineered microglia, including cell culture and animal models. Finally, we will discuss future directions for the application of engineered microglia in treating neurological diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Echo Yongqi Luo
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Rio Ryohichi Sugimura
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Batista AF, Khan KA, Papavergi MT, Lemere CA. The Importance of Complement-Mediated Immune Signaling in Alzheimer's Disease Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:817. [PMID: 38255891 PMCID: PMC10815224 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
As an essential component of our innate immune system, the complement system is responsible for our defense against pathogens. The complement cascade has complex roles in the central nervous system (CNS), most of what we know about it stems from its role in brain development. However, in recent years, numerous reports have implicated the classical complement cascade in both brain development and decline. More specifically, complement dysfunction has been implicated in neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is the most common form of dementia. Synapse loss is one of the main pathological hallmarks of AD and correlates with memory impairment. Throughout the course of AD progression, synapses are tagged with complement proteins and are consequently removed by microglia that express complement receptors. Notably, astrocytes are also capable of secreting signals that induce the expression of complement proteins in the CNS. Both astrocytes and microglia are implicated in neuroinflammation, another hallmark of AD pathogenesis. In this review, we provide an overview of previously known and newly established roles for the complement cascade in the CNS and we explore how complement interactions with microglia, astrocytes, and other risk factors such as TREM2 and ApoE4 modulate the processes of neurodegeneration in both amyloid and tau models of AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- André F. Batista
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (A.F.B.); (K.A.K.); (M.-T.P.)
| | - Khyrul A. Khan
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (A.F.B.); (K.A.K.); (M.-T.P.)
| | - Maria-Tzousi Papavergi
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (A.F.B.); (K.A.K.); (M.-T.P.)
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNs), Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Cynthia A. Lemere
- Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (A.F.B.); (K.A.K.); (M.-T.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Hu Y, Tao W. Current perspectives on microglia-neuron communication in the central nervous system: Direct and indirect modes of interaction. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00006-7. [PMID: 38195039 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incessant communication that takes place between microglia and neurons is essential the development, maintenance, and pathogenesis of the central nervous system (CNS). As mobile phagocytic cells, microglia serve a critical role in surveilling and scavenging the neuronal milieu to uphold homeostasis. AIM OF REVIEW This review aims to discuss the various mechanisms that govern the interaction between microglia and neurons, from the molecular to the organ system level, and to highlight the importance of these interactions in the development, maintenance, and pathogenesis of the CNS. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW Recent research has revealed that microglia-neuron interaction is vital for regulating fundamental neuronal functions, such as synaptic pruning, axonal remodeling, and neurogenesis. The review will elucidate the intricate signaling pathways involved in these interactions, both direct and indirect, to provide a better understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of brain function. Furthermore, gaining insights into these signals could lead to the development of innovative therapies for neural disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Hu
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, and National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 220023, China; School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Weiwei Tao
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, and National and Local Collaborative Engineering Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization and Formulae Innovative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 220023, China; School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Vecchiarelli HA, Lopes LT, Paolicelli RC, Stevens B, Wake H, Tremblay MÈ. Synapse Regulation. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 37:179-208. [PMID: 39207693 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-55529-9_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Microglia are the resident immune cells of the brain. As such, they rapidly detect changes in normal brain homeostasis and accurately respond by fine-tuning in a tightly regulated manner their morphology, gene expression, and functional behavior. Depending on the nature of these changes, microglia can thicken and retract their processes, proliferate and migrate, release numerous signaling factors and compounds influencing neuronal physiology (e.g., cytokines and trophic factors), in addition to secreting proteases able to transform the extracellular matrix, and phagocytosing various types of cellular debris, etc. Because microglia also transform rapidly (on a time scale of minutes) during experimental procedures, studying these very special cells requires methods that are specifically non-invasive. The development of such methods has provided unprecedented insights into the roles of microglia during normal physiological conditions. In particular, transcranial two-photon in vivo imaging revealed that presumably "resting" microglia continuously survey the brain parenchyma with their highly motile processes, in addition to modulating their structural and functional interactions with neuronal circuits along the changes in neuronal activity and behavioral experience occurring throughout the lifespan. In this chapter, we will describe how surveillant microglia interact with synaptic elements and modulate the number, maturation, function, and plasticity of synapses in the healthy developing, mature, and aging brain, with consequences on neuronal activity, learning and memory, and the behavioral outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rosa C Paolicelli
- Division of Psychiatry Research, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Beth Stevens
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Center for Life Science, Boston Children's Hospital, F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hiroaki Wake
- Division of Brain Circuits, National Institute for Basic Biology, Myodaiji-cho, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Marie-Ève Tremblay
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Cserép C, Pósfai B, Szabadits E, Dénes Á. Contactomics of Microglia and Intercellular Communication. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 37:135-149. [PMID: 39207690 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-55529-9_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Microglia represent the main immunocompetent cell type in the parenchyma of the brain and the spinal cord, with roles extending way beyond their immune functions. While emerging data show the pivotal role of microglia in brain development, brain health and brain diseases, the exact mechanisms through which microglia contribute to complex neuroimmune interactions are still largely unclear. Understanding the communication between microglia and other cells represents an important cornerstone of these interactions, which may provide novel opportunities for therapeutic interventions in neurological or psychiatric disorders. As such, in line with studying the effects of the numerous soluble mediators that influence neuroimmune processes, attention on physical interactions between microglia and other cells in the CNS has increased substantially in recent years. In this chapter, we briefly summarize the latest literature on "microglial contactomics" and its functional implications in health and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Cserép
- "Momentum" Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Balázs Pósfai
- "Momentum" Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Eszter Szabadits
- "Momentum" Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ádám Dénes
- "Momentum" Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Wallace JL, Pollen AA. Human neuronal maturation comes of age: cellular mechanisms and species differences. Nat Rev Neurosci 2024; 25:7-29. [PMID: 37996703 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-023-00760-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The delayed and prolonged postmitotic maturation of human neurons, compared with neurons from other species, may contribute to human-specific cognitive abilities and neurological disorders. Here we review the mechanisms of neuronal maturation, applying lessons from model systems to understand the specific features of protracted human cortical maturation and species differences. We cover cell-intrinsic features of neuronal maturation, including transcriptional, epigenetic and metabolic mechanisms, as well as cell-extrinsic features, including the roles of activity and synapses, the actions of glial cells and the contribution of the extracellular matrix. We discuss evidence for species differences in biochemical reaction rates, the proposed existence of an epigenetic maturation clock and the contributions of both general and modular mechanisms to species-specific maturation timing. Finally, we suggest approaches to measure, improve and accelerate the maturation of human neurons in culture, examine crosstalk and interactions among these different aspects of maturation and propose conceptual models to guide future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenelle L Wallace
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Alex A Pollen
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Gellner AK, Reis J, Fiebich BL, Fritsch B. Cx3cr1 deficiency interferes with learning- and direct current stimulation-mediated neuroplasticity of the motor cortex. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:177-191. [PMID: 38049944 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Microglia are essential contributors to synaptic transmission and stability and communicate with neurons via the fractalkine pathway. Transcranial direct current stimulation [(t)DCS], a form of non-invasive electrical brain stimulation, modulates cortical excitability and promotes neuroplasticity, which has been extensively demonstrated in the motor cortex and for motor learning. The role of microglia and their fractalkine receptor CX3CR1 in motor cortical neuroplasticity mediated by DCS or motor learning requires further elucidation. We demonstrate the effects of pharmacological microglial depletion and genetic Cx3cr1 deficiency on the induction of DCS-induced long-term potentiation (DCS-LTP) ex vivo. The relevance of microglia-neuron communication for DCS response and structural neuroplasticity underlying motor learning are assessed via 2-photon in vivo imaging. The behavioural consequences of impaired CX3CR1 signalling are investigated for both gross and fine motor learning. We show that DCS-mediated neuroplasticity in the motor cortex depends on the presence of microglia and is driven in part by CX3CR1 signalling ex vivo and provide the first evidence of microglia interacting with neurons during DCS in vivo. Furthermore, CX3CR1 signalling is required for motor learning and underlying structural neuroplasticity in concert with microglia interaction. Although we have recently demonstrated the microglial response to DCS in vivo, we now provide a link between microglial integrity and neuronal activity for the expression of DCS-dependent neuroplasticity. In addition, we extend the knowledge on the relevance of CX3CR1 signalling for motor learning and structural neuroplasticity. The underlying molecular mechanisms and the potential impact of DCS in rescuing CX3CR1 deficits remain to be addressed in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Kathrin Gellner
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Institute of Physiology II, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Janine Reis
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Bernd L Fiebich
- Neurochemistry and Neuroimmunology Research Group, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Brita Fritsch
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Ramos D, Cruz CD. Involvement of microglia in chronic neuropathic pain associated with spinal cord injury - a systematic review. Rev Neurosci 2023; 34:933-950. [PMID: 37490300 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2023-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
In recent decade microglia have been found to have a central role in the development of chronic neuropathic pain after injury to the peripheral nervous system. It is widely accepted that peripheral nerve injury triggers microglial activation in the spinal cord, which contributes to heightened pain sensation and eventually chronic pain states. The contribution of microglia to chronic pain arising after injury to the central nervous system, such as spinal cord injury (SCI), has been less studied, but there is evidence supporting microglial contribution to central neuropathic pain. In this systematic review, we focused on post-SCI microglial activation and how it is linked to emergence and maintenance of chronic neuropathic pain arising after SCI. We found that the number of studies using animal SCI models addressing microglial activity is still small, compared with the ones using peripheral nerve injury models. We have collected 20 studies for full inclusion in this review. Many mechanisms and cellular interactions are yet to be fully understood, although several studies report an increase of density and activity of microglia in the spinal cord, both in the vicinity of the injury and in the spared spinal tissue, as well as in the brain. Changes in microglial activity come with several molecular changes, including expression of receptors and activation of signalling pathways. As with peripheral neuropathic pain, microglia seem to be important players and might become a therapeutic target in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Ramos
- Faculty of Medicine of Porto, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Biomedicine, Experimental Biology Unit, Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine of Porto, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Célia Duarte Cruz
- Department of Biomedicine, Experimental Biology Unit, Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine of Porto, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Translational Neurourology, IBMC and Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde-i3S, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Ferrucci L, Cantando I, Cordella F, Di Angelantonio S, Ragozzino D, Bezzi P. Microglia at the Tripartite Synapse during Postnatal Development: Implications for Autism Spectrum Disorders and Schizophrenia. Cells 2023; 12:2827. [PMID: 38132147 PMCID: PMC10742295 DOI: 10.3390/cells12242827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Synapses are the fundamental structures of neural circuits that control brain functions and behavioral and cognitive processes. Synapses undergo formation, maturation, and elimination mainly during postnatal development via a complex interplay with neighboring astrocytes and microglia that, by shaping neural connectivity, may have a crucial role in the strengthening and weakening of synaptic functions, that is, the functional plasticity of synapses. Indeed, an increasing number of studies have unveiled the roles of microglia and astrocytes in synapse formation, maturation, and elimination as well as in regulating synaptic function. Over the past 15 years, the mechanisms underlying the microglia- and astrocytes-dependent regulation of synaptic plasticity have been thoroughly studied, and researchers have reported that the disruption of these glial cells in early postnatal development may underlie the cause of synaptic dysfunction that leads to neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Ferrucci
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
| | - Iva Cantando
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland;
| | - Federica Cordella
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science, IIT, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Di Angelantonio
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science, IIT, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Ragozzino
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Bezzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland;
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Lopez-Ortiz AO, Eyo UB. Astrocytes and microglia in the coordination of CNS development and homeostasis. J Neurochem 2023:10.1111/jnc.16006. [PMID: 37985374 PMCID: PMC11102936 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.16006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Glia have emerged as important architects of central nervous system (CNS) development and maintenance. While traditionally glial contributions to CNS development and maintenance have been studied independently, there is growing evidence that either suggests or documents that glia may act in coordinated manners to effect developmental patterning and homeostatic functions in the CNS. In this review, we focus on astrocytes, the most abundant glia in the CNS, and microglia, the earliest glia to colonize the CNS highlighting research that documents either suggestive or established coordinated actions by these glial cells in various CNS processes including cell and/or debris clearance, neuronal survival and morphogenesis, synaptic maturation, and circuit function, angio-/vasculogenesis, myelination, and neurotransmission. Some molecular mechanisms underlying these processes that have been identified are also described. Throughout, we categorize the available evidence as either suggestive or established interactions between microglia and astrocytes in the regulation of the respective process and raise possible avenues for further research. We conclude indicating that a better understanding of coordinated astrocyte-microglial interactions in the developing and mature brain holds promise for developing effective therapies for brain pathologies where these processes are perturbed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aída Oryza Lopez-Ortiz
- Center for Brain Immunology and Glia, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Ukpong B Eyo
- Center for Brain Immunology and Glia, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Danis A, Gallagher AA, Anderson AN, Isakharov A, Beeson KA, Schnell E. Altered hippocampal activation in seizure-prone CACNA2D2 knockout mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.08.565511. [PMID: 37986872 PMCID: PMC10659305 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.08.565511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
The voltage-gated calcium channel subunit α2δ-2 controls calcium-dependent signaling in neurons, and loss of this subunit causes epilepsy in both mice and humans. To determine whether mice without α2δ-2 demonstrate hippocampal activation or histopathological changes associated with seizure activity, we measured expression of the activity-dependent gene c-fos and various histopathological correlates of temporal lobe epilepsy in hippocampal tissue from wildtype (WT) and α2δ-2 knockout (CACNA2D2 KO) mice using immunohistochemical staining and confocal microscopy. Both genotypes demonstrated similarly sparse c-fos expression within the hippocampal dentate granule cell layer (GCL) at baseline, consistent with no difference in basal activity of granule cells between genotypes. Surprisingly, when mice were assayed 1 hour after handling-associated convulsions, KO mice had fewer c-fos-positive cells in the dentate gyrus, indicating that activity in the dentate gyrus actually decreased. However, the dentate was significantly more active in KO mice compared to WT after administration of a subthreshold pentylenetetrazole dose, consistent with increased susceptibility to proconvulsant stimuli. Other histopathological markers of temporal lobe epilepsy in these mice, including markers of neurogenesis, glial activation, and mossy fiber sprouting, were similar in WT and KO mice, apart from a small but significant increase in hilar mossy cell density, opposite to what is typically found in mice with temporal lobe epilepsy. This suggests that the differences in seizure-associated hippocampal function in the absence of α2δ-2 protein are likely due to altered functional properties of the network without associated structural changes in the hippocampus at the typical age of seizure onset.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Danis
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239
- Research and Development Service, Portland VA Health Care System, Portland, OR, 97239, Portland, OR, 97239
| | - Ashlynn A. Gallagher
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239
- Research and Development Service, Portland VA Health Care System, Portland, OR, 97239, Portland, OR, 97239
| | - Ashley N. Anderson
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239
- Research and Development Service, Portland VA Health Care System, Portland, OR, 97239, Portland, OR, 97239
| | - Arielle Isakharov
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239
| | - Kathleen A. Beeson
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239
| | - Eric Schnell
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239
- Research and Development Service, Portland VA Health Care System, Portland, OR, 97239, Portland, OR, 97239
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Liu CC, Wang N, Chen Y, Inoue Y, Shue F, Ren Y, Wang M, Qiao W, Ikezu TC, Li Z, Zhao J, Martens Y, Doss SV, Rosenberg CL, Jeevaratnam S, Jia L, Raulin AC, Qi F, Zhu Y, Alnobani A, Knight J, Chen Y, Linares C, Kurti A, Fryer JD, Zhang B, Wu LJ, Kim BYS, Bu G. Cell-autonomous effects of APOE4 in restricting microglial response in brain homeostasis and Alzheimer's disease. Nat Immunol 2023; 24:1854-1866. [PMID: 37857825 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-023-01640-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Microglial involvement in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology has emerged as a risk-determining pathogenic event. While apolipoprotein E (APOE) is known to modify AD risk, it remains unclear how microglial apoE impacts brain cognition and AD pathology. Here, using conditional mouse models expressing apoE isoforms in microglia and central nervous system-associated macrophages (CAMs), we demonstrate a cell-autonomous effect of apoE3-mediated microglial activation and function, which are negated by apoE4. Expression of apoE3 in microglia/CAMs improves cognitive function, increases microglia surrounding amyloid plaque and reduces amyloid pathology and associated toxicity, whereas apoE4 expression either compromises or has no effects on these outcomes by impairing lipid metabolism. Single-cell transcriptomic profiling reveals increased antigen presentation and interferon pathways upon apoE3 expression. In contrast, apoE4 expression downregulates complement and lysosomal pathways, and promotes stress-related responses. Moreover, in the presence of mouse endogenous apoE, microglial apoE4 exacerbates amyloid pathology. Finally, we observed a reduction in Lgals3-positive responsive microglia surrounding amyloid plaque and an increased accumulation of lipid droplets in APOE4 human brains and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived microglia. Our findings establish critical isoform-dependent effects of microglia/CAM-expressed apoE in brain function and the development of amyloid pathology, providing new insight into how apoE4 vastly increases AD risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Chen Liu
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Unit, Biogen, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Na Wang
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Yuanxin Chen
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Yasuteru Inoue
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Francis Shue
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Yingxue Ren
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Minghui Wang
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Mount Sinai Center for Transformative Disease Modeling, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Wenhui Qiao
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | | | - Zonghua Li
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Jing Zhao
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Yuka Martens
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Sydney V Doss
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | | | | | - Lin Jia
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | | | - Fangfang Qi
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Yiyang Zhu
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Alla Alnobani
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Joshua Knight
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Yixing Chen
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Cynthia Linares
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Aishe Kurti
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - John D Fryer
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | - Bin Zhang
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Mount Sinai Center for Transformative Disease Modeling, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Long-Jun Wu
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Betty Y S Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Brain Tumor Center, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Guojun Bu
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Sanadgol N, Miraki Feriz A, Lisboa SF, Joca SRL. Putative role of glial cells in treatment resistance depression: An updated critical literation review and evaluation of single-nuclei transcriptomics data. Life Sci 2023; 331:122025. [PMID: 37574044 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a prevalent global mental illness with diverse underlying causes. Despite the availability of first-line antidepressants, approximately 10-30 % of MDD patients do not respond to these medications, falling into the category of treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Our study aimed to elucidate the precise molecular mechanisms through which glial cells contribute to depression-like episodes in TRD. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a comprehensive literature search using the PubMed and Scopus electronic databases with search terms carefully selected to be specific to our topic. We strictly followed inclusion and exclusion criteria during the article selection process, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Additionally, we carried out an in-depth analysis of postmortem brain tissue obtained from patients with TRD using single-nucleus transcriptomics (sn-RNAseq). KEY FINDINGS Our data confirmed the involvement of multiple glia-specific markers (25 genes) associated with TRD. These differentially expressed genes (DEGs) primarily regulate cytokine signaling, and they are enriched in important pathways such as NFκB and TNF-α. Notably, DEGs showed significant interactions with the transcription factor CREB1. sn-RNAseq analysis confirmed dysregulation of nearly all designated DEGs; however, only Cx30/43, AQP4, S100β, and TNF-αR1 were significantly downregulated in oligodendrocytes (OLGs) of TRD patients. With further exploration, we identified the GLT-1 in OLGs as a hub gene involved in TRD. SIGNIFICANCE Our findings suggest that glial dysregulation may hinder the effectiveness of existing therapies for TRD. By targeting specific glial-based genes, we could develop novel interventions with minimal adverse side effects, providing new hope for TRD patients who currently experience limited benefits from invasive treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nima Sanadgol
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; Institute of Neuroanatomy, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Adib Miraki Feriz
- Student Research Committee, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Sabrina F Lisboa
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Sâmia R L Joca
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Robles-Gómez ÁA, Ordaz B, Lorea-Hernández JJ, Peña-Ortega F. Deleterious and protective effects of epothilone-D alone and in the context of amyloid β- and tau-induced alterations. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1198299. [PMID: 37900942 PMCID: PMC10603193 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1198299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyloid-β (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau (P-tau) are Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers that interact in a complex manner to induce most of the cognitive and brain alterations observed in this disease. Since the neuronal cytoskeleton is a common downstream pathological target of tau and Aβ, which mostly lead to augmented microtubule instability, the administration of microtubule stabilizing agents (MSAs) can protect against their pathological actions. However, the effectiveness of MSAs is still uncertain due to their state-dependent negative effects; thus, evaluating their specific actions in different pathological or physiological conditions is required. We evaluated whether epothilone-D (Epo-D), a clinically used MSA, rescues from the functional and behavioral alterations produced by intracerebroventricular injection of Aβ, the presence of P-tau, or their combination in rTg4510 mice. We also explored the side effects of Epo-D. To do so, we evaluated hippocampal-dependent spatial memory with the Hebb-Williams maze, hippocampal CA1 integrity and the intrinsic and synaptic properties of CA1 pyramidal neurons with the patch-clamp technique. Aβ and P-tau mildly impaired memory retrieval, but produced contrasting effects on intrinsic excitability. When Aβ and P-tau were combined, the alterations in excitability and spatial reversal learning (i.e., cognitive flexibility) were exacerbated. Interestingly, Epo-D prevented most of the impairments induced Aβ and P-tau alone and combined. However, Epo-D also exhibited some side effects depending on the prevailing pathological or physiological condition, which should be considered in future preclinical and translational studies. Although we did not perform extensive histopathological evaluations or measured microtubule stability, our findings show that MSAs can rescue the consequences of AD-like conditions but otherwise be harmful if administered at a prodromal stage of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ángel Abdiel Robles-Gómez
- Instituto de Neurobiología, UNAM Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, UNAM, Ciudad Universitaria, México City, Mexico
| | - Benito Ordaz
- Instituto de Neurobiología, UNAM Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Olivero G, Roggeri A, Pittaluga A. Anti-NMDA and Anti-AMPA Receptor Antibodies in Central Disorders: Preclinical Approaches to Assess Their Pathological Role and Translatability to Clinic. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14905. [PMID: 37834353 PMCID: PMC10573896 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoantibodies against NMDA and AMPA receptors have been identified in the central nervous system of patients suffering from brain disorders characterized by neurological and psychiatric symptoms. It has been demonstrated that these autoantibodies can affect the functions and/or the expression of the targeted receptors, altering synaptic communication. The importance to clarify, in preclinical models, the molecular mechanisms involved in the autoantibody-mediated effects has emerged in order to understand their pathogenic role in central disorders, but also to propose new therapeutic approaches for preventing the deleterious central consequences. In this review, we describe some of the available preclinical literature concerning the impact of antibodies recognizing NMDA and AMPA receptors in neurons. This review discusses the cellular events that would support the detrimental roles of the autoantibodies, also illustrating some contrasting findings that in our opinion deserve attention and further investigations before translating the preclinical observations to clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guendalina Olivero
- Department of Pharmacy (DiFar), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genoa, Italy; (G.O.); (A.R.)
| | - Alessandra Roggeri
- Department of Pharmacy (DiFar), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genoa, Italy; (G.O.); (A.R.)
| | - Anna Pittaluga
- Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research, 3Rs Center, Department of Pharmacy (DiFar), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Burstyn-Cohen T, Fresia R. TAM receptors in phagocytosis: Beyond the mere internalization of particles. Immunol Rev 2023; 319:7-26. [PMID: 37596991 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
TYRO3, AXL, and MERTK constitute the TAM family of receptor tyrosine kinases, activated by their ligands GAS6 and PROS1. TAMs are necessary for adult homeostasis in the immune, nervous, reproductive, skeletal, and vascular systems. Among additional cellular functions employed by TAMs, phagocytosis is central for tissue health. TAM receptors are dominant in providing phagocytes with the molecular machinery necessary to engulf diverse targets, including apoptotic cells, myelin debris, and portions of live cells in a phosphatidylserine-dependent manner. Simultaneously, TAMs drive the release of anti-inflammatory and tissue repair molecules. Disruption of the TAM-driven phagocytic pathway has detrimental consequences, resulting in autoimmunity, male infertility, blindness, and disrupted vascular integrity, and which is thought to contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. Although structurally and functionally redundant, the TAM receptors and ligands underlie complex signaling cascades, of which several key aspects are yet to be elucidated. We discuss similarities and differences between TAMs and other phagocytic pathways, highlight future directions and how TAMs can be harnessed therapeutically to modulate phagocytosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tal Burstyn-Cohen
- The Institute for Biomedical and Oral Research, Faculty of Dental Medicine, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Roberta Fresia
- The Institute for Biomedical and Oral Research, Faculty of Dental Medicine, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Eugenín J, Eugenín-von Bernhardi L, von Bernhardi R. Age-dependent changes on fractalkine forms and their contribution to neurodegenerative diseases. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1249320. [PMID: 37818457 PMCID: PMC10561274 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1249320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The chemokine fractalkine (FKN, CX3CL1), a member of the CX3C subfamily, contributes to neuron-glia interaction and the regulation of microglial cell activation. Fractalkine is expressed by neurons as a membrane-bound protein (mCX3CL1) that can be cleaved by extracellular proteases generating several sCX3CL1 forms. sCX3CL1, containing the chemokine domain, and mCX3CL1 have high affinity by their unique receptor (CX3CR1) which, physiologically, is only found in microglia, a resident immune cell of the CNS. The activation of CX3CR1contributes to survival and maturation of the neural network during development, glutamatergic synaptic transmission, synaptic plasticity, cognition, neuropathic pain, and inflammatory regulation in the adult brain. Indeed, the various CX3CL1 forms appear in some cases to serve an anti-inflammatory role of microglia, whereas in others, they have a pro-inflammatory role, aggravating neurological disorders. In the last decade, evidence points to the fact that sCX3CL1 and mCX3CL1 exhibit selective and differential effects on their targets. Thus, the balance in their level and activity will impact on neuron-microglia interaction. This review is focused on the description of factors determining the emergence of distinct fractalkine forms, their age-dependent changes, and how they contribute to neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative diseases. Changes in the balance among various fractalkine forms may be one of the mechanisms on which converge aging, chronic CNS inflammation, and neurodegeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Eugenín
- Facultad de Química y Biología, Departamento de Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, USACH, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Rommy von Bernhardi
- Facultad de Ciencias para el Cuidado de la Salud, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Yu C, Deng XJ, Xu D. Microglia in epilepsy. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 185:106249. [PMID: 37536386 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of most common chronic neurological disorders, and the antiseizure medications developed by targeting neurocentric mechanisms have not effectively reduced the proportion of patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Further exploration of the cellular or molecular mechanism of epilepsy is expected to provide new options for treatment. Recently, more and more researches focus on brain network components other than neurons, among which microglia have attracted much attention for their diverse biological functions. As the resident immune cells of the central nervous system, microglia have highly plastic transcription, morphology and functional characteristics, which can change dynamically in a context-dependent manner during the progression of epilepsy. In the pathogenesis of epilepsy, highly reactive microglia interact with other components in the epileptogenic network by performing crucial functions such as secretion of soluble factors and phagocytosis, thus continuously reshaping the landscape of the epileptic brain microenvironment. Indeed, microglia appear to be both pro-epileptic and anti-epileptic under the different spatiotemporal contexts of disease, rendering interventions targeting microglia biologically complex and challenging. This comprehensive review critically summarizes the pathophysiological role of microglia in epileptic brain homeostasis alterations and explores potential therapeutic or modulatory targets for epilepsy targeting microglia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Yu
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430022, China
| | - Xue-Jun Deng
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430022, China
| | - Da Xu
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430022, China.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Tran I, Gellner AK. Long-term effects of chronic stress models in adult mice. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2023; 130:1133-1151. [PMID: 36786896 PMCID: PMC10460743 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02598-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric disorders, such as major depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder, tend to be long-term conditions in whose development and maintenance stress are central pathogenic factors. Translational mouse models are widely used in neuropsychiatric research, exploiting social and non-social stressors to investigate the mechanisms underlying their detrimental effects. However, most studies focus on the short-term consequences of chronic stress, whereas only a few are interested in the long-term course. This is counterintuitive given the human conditions that preclinical models are designed to mimic. In this review, we have summarized the limited work to date on long-term effects of chronic stress in mice models. First, the different models are presented and a definition of short- vs. long-term sequelae is proposed. On this basis, behavioral, endocrine, and vegetative effects are addressed before examining data on cellular and molecular alterations in the brain. Finally, future directions for research on the long-term effects of stress are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inès Tran
- Institute of Physiology II, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Anne-Kathrin Gellner
- Institute of Physiology II, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
He S, Li X, Mittra N, Bhattacharjee A, Wang H, Zhao S, Liu F, Han X. Microglial cGAS deletion protects against amyloid-β induced Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.07.552300. [PMID: 37609338 PMCID: PMC10441288 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.07.552300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Innate immune activation plays a vital role in the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias (ADRD). Among which, the DNA sensing cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)- STING pathway has been implicated in diverse aspects of AD progression. In the current study, we showed that the cGAS-STING signaling was up-regulated in AD and this elevation was mainly contributed by the microglial population other than non-microglial cell types in the brain. By establishing an inducible, microglia-specific cGAS knockout mouse model in 5xFAD background, we found that deleting microglial cGAS at the onset of amyloid-β (Aβ) pathology significantly limited plaque formation, and protected mice from Aβ-induced cognitive impairment. Mechanistically, we found cGAS was necessary for plaque-associated microglial enrichment potentially driven by IRF8, and was indispensable for the development of disease-associated microglia (DAM) phenotype. Meanwhile, the loss of microglial cGAS reduced the levels of dystrophic neurites which led to preserved synaptic integrity and neuronal function. Our study provides new insights in understanding the effects of innate immune in AD via a cell-type specific manner, and lays the foundation for potential targeted intervention of the microglial cGAS-STING pathway toward the improvement of AD.
Collapse
|
47
|
Steel D, Reid KM, Pisani A, Hess EJ, Fox S, Kurian MA. Advances in targeting neurotransmitter systems in dystonia. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 169:217-258. [PMID: 37482394 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Dystonia is characterised as uncontrolled, often painful involuntary muscle contractions that cause abnormal postures and repetitive or twisting movements. These movements can be continuous or sporadic and affect different parts of the body and range in severity. Dystonia and its related conditions present a huge cause of neurological morbidity worldwide. Although therapies are available, achieving optimal symptom control without major unwanted effects remains a challenge. Most pharmacological treatments for dystonia aim to modulate the effects of one or more neurotransmitters in the central nervous system, but doing so effectively and with precision is far from straightforward. In this chapter we discuss the physiology of key neurotransmitters, including dopamine, noradrenaline, serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine), acetylcholine, GABA, glutamate, adenosine and cannabinoids, and their role in dystonia. We explore the ways in which existing pharmaceuticals as well as novel agents, currently in clinical trial or preclinical development, target dystonia, and their respective advantages and disadvantages. Finally, we discuss current and emerging genetic therapies which may be used to treat genetic forms of dystonia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dora Steel
- UCL GOS Institute of Child Health (Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Diseases in Children), London, United Kingdom; Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kimberley M Reid
- UCL GOS Institute of Child Health (Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Diseases in Children), London, United Kingdom
| | - Antonio Pisani
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ellen J Hess
- Emory University School of Medicine, CA, United States
| | - Susan Fox
- Movement Disorders Clinic, Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Manju A Kurian
- UCL GOS Institute of Child Health (Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Diseases in Children), London, United Kingdom; Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
de la Fuente AG, Pelucchi S, Mertens J, Di Luca M, Mauceri D, Marcello E. Novel therapeutic approaches to target neurodegeneration. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:1651-1673. [PMID: 36965025 PMCID: PMC10952850 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Ageing is the main risk factor common to most primary neurodegenerative disorders. Indeed, age-related brain alterations have been long considered to predispose to neurodegeneration. Although protein misfolding and the accumulation of toxic protein aggregates have been considered as causative events in neurodegeneration, several other biological pathways affected by brain ageing also contribute to pathogenesis. Here, we discuss the evidence showing the involvement of the mechanisms controlling neuronal structure, gene expression, autophagy, cell metabolism and neuroinflammation in the onset and progression of neurodegenerative disorders. Furthermore, we review the therapeutic strategies currently under development or as future approaches designed to normalize these pathways, which may then increase brain resilience to cope with toxic protein species. In addition to therapies targeting the insoluble protein aggregates specifically associated with each neurodegenerative disorder, these novel pharmacological approaches may be part of combined therapies designed to rescue brain function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alerie G. de la Fuente
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL)AlicanteSpain
- Instituto de Neurociencias CSIC‐UMHAlicanteSpain
- Wellcome‐Wolfson Institute for Experimental MedicineQueen's University BelfastBelfastUK
| | - Silvia Pelucchi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular SciencesUniversity of MilanMilanItaly
- Institute of Molecular BiologyLeopold‐Franzens‐Universität InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
| | - Jerome Mertens
- Institute of Molecular BiologyLeopold‐Franzens‐Universität InnsbruckInnsbruckAustria
- Department of NeurosciencesUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Monica Di Luca
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular SciencesUniversity of MilanMilanItaly
| | - Daniela Mauceri
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell BiologyDepartment of Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, University of MarburgMarburgGermany
- Department of NeurobiologyInterdisciplinary Centre for Neurosciences (IZN), Heidelberg UniversityHeidelbergGermany
| | - Elena Marcello
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular SciencesUniversity of MilanMilanItaly
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Ahn YH, Tang Y, Illes P. The neuroinflammatory astrocytic P2X7 receptor: Alzheimer's disease, ischemic brain injury, and epileptic state. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:763-778. [PMID: 37712394 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2258281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Astrocytes have previously been considered as cells supporting neuronal functions, but they are now recognized as active players in maintaining central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis. Astrocytes can communicate with other CNS cells, i.e. through the gliotransmitter ATP and P2X7 receptors (Rs). AREAS COVERED In this review, we will discuss how the P2X7R initiates the release of gliotransmitters and proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines, thereby establishing a dialog between astrocytes and neurons and, in addition, causing neuroinflammation. In astrocytes, dysregulation of P2X7Rs has been associated with neurodegenerative illnesses such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), as well as the consequences of cerebral ischemic injury and status epilepticus (SE). EXPERT OPINION Although all CNS cells are possible sources of ATP release, the targets of this ATP are primarily at microglial cells. However, astrocytes also contain ATP-sensitive P2X7Rs and have in addition the peculiar property over microglia to continuously interact with neurons via not only inflammatory mediators but also gliotransmitters, such as adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP), glutamate, γ-amino butyric acid (GABA), and D-serine. Cellular damage arising during AD, cerebral ischemia, and SE via P2X7R activation is superimposed upon the original disease, and their prevention by blood-brain barrier permeable pharmacological antagonists is a valid therapeutic option.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Young Ha Ahn
- International Joint Research Center on Purinergic Signaling of Sichuan Province, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Yong Tang
- International Joint Research Center on Purinergic Signaling of Sichuan Province, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
- School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
| | - Peter Illes
- International Joint Research Center on Purinergic Signaling of Sichuan Province, Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China
- Rudolf Boehm Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Shen Y, Luo Y, Liao P, Zuo Y, Jiang R. Role of the Voltage-Gated Proton Channel Hv1 in Nervous Systems. Neurosci Bull 2023; 39:1157-1172. [PMID: 37029856 PMCID: PMC10313628 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-023-01053-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Hv1 is the only voltage-gated proton-selective channel in mammalian cells. It contains a conserved voltage-sensor domain, shared by a large class of voltage-gated ion channels, but lacks a pore domain. Its primary role is to extrude protons from the cytoplasm upon pH reduction and membrane depolarization. The best-known function of Hv1 is the regulation of cytosolic pH and the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase-dependent production of reactive oxygen species. Accumulating evidence indicates that Hv1 is expressed in nervous systems, in addition to immune cells and others. Here, we summarize the molecular properties, distribution, and physiological functions of Hv1 in the peripheral and central nervous systems. We describe the recently discovered functions of Hv1 in various neurological diseases, including brain or spinal cord injury, ischemic stroke, demyelinating diseases, and pain. We also summarize the current advances in the discovery and application of Hv1-targeted small molecules in neurological diseases. Finally, we discuss the current limitations of our understanding of Hv1 and suggest future research directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Shen
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Yuncheng Luo
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Ping Liao
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Yunxia Zuo
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Ruotian Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China.
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China.
| |
Collapse
|