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Feng S, Li J, Liu T, Huang S, Chen X, Liu S, Zhou J, Zhao H, Hong Y. Overexpression of low-density lipoprotein receptor prevents neurotoxic polarization of astrocytes via inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation in experimental ischemic stroke. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:491-502. [PMID: 38819062 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202502000-00027/figure1/v/2024-05-28T214302Z/r/image-tiff Neurotoxic astrocytes are a promising therapeutic target for the attenuation of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. Low-density lipoprotein receptor, a classic cholesterol regulatory receptor, has been found to inhibit NLR family pyrin domain containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation in neurons following ischemic stroke and to suppress the activation of microglia and astrocytes in individuals with Alzheimer's disease. However, little is known about the effects of low-density lipoprotein receptor on astrocytic activation in ischemic stroke. To address this issue in the present study, we examined the mechanisms by which low-density lipoprotein receptor regulates astrocytic polarization in ischemic stroke models. First, we examined low-density lipoprotein receptor expression in astrocytes via immunofluorescence staining and western blotting analysis. We observed significant downregulation of low-density lipoprotein receptor following middle cerebral artery occlusion reperfusion and oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation. Second, we induced the astrocyte-specific overexpression of low-density lipoprotein receptor using astrocyte-specific adeno-associated virus. Low-density lipoprotein receptor overexpression in astrocytes improved neurological outcomes in middle cerebral artery occlusion mice and reversed neurotoxic astrocytes to create a neuroprotective phenotype. Finally, we found that the overexpression of low-density lipoprotein receptor inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation in oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation injured astrocytes and that the addition of nigericin, an NLRP3 agonist, restored the neurotoxic astrocyte phenotype. These findings suggest that low-density lipoprotein receptor could inhibit the NLRP3-meidiated neurotoxic polarization of astrocytes and that increasing low-density lipoprotein receptor in astrocytes might represent a novel strategy for treating cerebral ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Feng
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Juanji Li
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shiqi Huang
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiangliang Chen
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shen Liu
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Junshan Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Hongdong Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ye Hong
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
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2
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Zhang Y, Liu Z, Chopp M, Millman M, Li Y, Cepparulo P, Kemper A, Li C, Zhang L, Zhang ZG. Small extracellular vesicles derived from cerebral endothelial cells with elevated microRNA 27a promote ischemic stroke recovery. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:224-233. [PMID: 38767487 PMCID: PMC11246145 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-22-01292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202501000-00030/figure1/v/2024-05-14T021156Z/r/image-tiff Axonal remodeling is a critical aspect of ischemic brain repair processes and contributes to spontaneous functional recovery. Our previous in vitro study demonstrated that exosomes/small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) isolated from cerebral endothelial cells (CEC-sEVs) of ischemic brain promote axonal growth of embryonic cortical neurons and that microRNA 27a (miR-27a) is an elevated miRNA in ischemic CEC-sEVs. In the present study, we investigated whether normal CEC-sEVs engineered to enrich their levels of miR-27a (27a-sEVs) further enhance axonal growth and improve neurological outcomes after ischemic stroke when compared with treatment with non-engineered CEC-sEVs. 27a-sEVs were isolated from the conditioned medium of healthy mouse CECs transfected with a lentiviral miR-27a expression vector. Small EVs isolated from CECs transfected with a scramble vector (Scra-sEVs) were used as a control. Adult male mice were subjected to permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion and then were randomly treated with 27a-sEVs or Scra-sEVs. An array of behavior assays was used to measure neurological function. Compared with treatment of ischemic stroke with Scra-sEVs, treatment with 27a-sEVs significantly augmented axons and spines in the peri-infarct zone and in the corticospinal tract of the spinal grey matter of the denervated side, and significantly improved neurological outcomes. In vitro studies demonstrated that CEC-sEVs carrying reduced miR-27a abolished 27a-sEV-augmented axonal growth. Ultrastructural analysis revealed that 27a-sEVs systemically administered preferentially localized to the pre-synaptic active zone, while quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western Blot analysis showed elevated miR-27a, and reduced axonal inhibitory proteins Semaphorin 6A and Ras Homolog Family Member A in the peri-infarct zone. Blockage of the Clathrin-dependent endocytosis pathway substantially reduced neuronal internalization of 27a-sEVs. Our data provide evidence that 27a-sEVs have a therapeutic effect on stroke recovery by promoting axonal remodeling and improving neurological outcomes. Our findings also suggest that suppression of axonal inhibitory proteins such as Semaphorin 6A may contribute to the beneficial effect of 27a-sEVs on axonal remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Zhongwu Liu
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Michael Chopp
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Physics, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, USA
| | - Michael Millman
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Yanfeng Li
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | | | - Amy Kemper
- Department of Pathology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Chao Li
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
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3
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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.
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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
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4
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Clain J, Couret D, Bringart M, Lecadieu A, Meilhac O, Lefebvre d'Hellencourt C, Diotel N. Metabolic disorders exacerbate the formation of glial scar after stroke. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:3009-3029. [PMID: 38576159 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16325] [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: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic disorders are risk factors for stroke exacerbating subsequent complications. Rapidly after brain injury, a glial scar forms, preventing excessive inflammation and limiting axonal regeneration. Despite the growing interest in wound healing following brain injury, the formation of a glial scar in the context of metabolic disorders is poorly documented. In this study, we used db/db mice to investigate the impact of metabolic perturbations on brain repair mechanisms, with a focus on glial scarring. First, we confirmed the development of obesity, poor glucose regulation, hyperglycaemia and liver steatosis in these mice. Then, we observed that 3 days after a 30-min middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), db/db mice had larger infarct area compared with their control counterparts. We next investigated reactive gliosis and glial scar formation in db/+ and db/db mice. We demonstrated that astrogliosis and microgliosis were exacerbated 3 days after stroke in db/db mice. Furthermore, we also showed that the synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins (i.e., chondroitin sulphate proteoglycan, collagen IV and tenascin C) was increased in db/db mice. Consequently, we demonstrated for the first time that metabolic disorders impair reactive gliosis post-stroke and increase ECM deposition. Given that the damage size is known to influence glial scar, this study now raises the question of the direct impact of hyperglycaemia/obesity on reactive gliosis and glia scar. It paves the way to promote the development of new therapies targeting glial scar formation to improve functional recovery after stroke in the context of metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Clain
- Université de la Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète Athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Pierre, France
| | - David Couret
- Université de la Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète Athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Pierre, France
- CHU de La Réunion, Saint-Denis, France
| | - Matthieu Bringart
- Université de la Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète Athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Pierre, France
| | - Arnaud Lecadieu
- Université de la Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète Athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Pierre, France
- CHU de La Réunion, Saint-Denis, France
| | - Olivier Meilhac
- Université de la Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète Athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Pierre, France
- CHU de La Réunion, Saint-Denis, France
| | - Christian Lefebvre d'Hellencourt
- Université de la Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète Athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Pierre, France
| | - Nicolas Diotel
- Université de la Réunion, INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète Athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Saint-Pierre, France
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Yang Y, Duan Y, Jiang H, Li J, Bai W, Zhang Q, Li J, Shao J. Bioinformatics-driven identification and validation of diagnostic biomarkers for cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28565. [PMID: 38601664 PMCID: PMC11004763 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This article aims to identify genetic features associated with immune cell infiltration in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) development through bioinformatics, with the goal of discovering diagnostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets. Methods We obtained two datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to identify immune-related differentially expressed genes (IRDEGs). These genes' functions were analyzed via Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Tools such as CIBERSORT and ssGSEA assessed immune cell infiltration. The Starbase and miRDB databases predicted miRNAs interacting with hub genes, and Cytoscape software mapped mRNA-miRNA interaction networks. The ENCORI database was employed to predict RNA binding proteins interacting with hub genes. Key genes were identified using a random forest algorithm and constructing a Support Vector Machine (SVM) model. LASSO regression analysis constructed a diagnostic model for hub genes to determine their diagnostic value, and PCR analysis validated their expression in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion. Results We identified 10 IRDEGs (C1qa, Ccl4, Cd74, Cd8a, Cxcl10, Gmfg, Grp, Lgals3bp, Timp1, Vim). The random forest algorithm, and SVM model intersection revealed three key genes (Ccl4, Gmfg, C1qa) as diagnostic biomarkers for CIRI. LASSO regression analysis, further refined this to two key genes (Ccl4 and C1qa), With ROC curve, analysis confirming their diagnostic efficacy (C1qa AUC = 0.75, Ccl4 AUC = 0.939). PCR analysis corroborated these findings. Conclusions Our study elucidates immune and metabolic response mechanisms in CIRI, identifying two immune-related genes as key biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets in response to cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Yushan Duan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Huan Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Junjie Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Wenya Bai
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Junming Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Jianlin Shao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
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6
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Koukalova L, Chmelova M, Amlerova Z, Vargova L. Out of the core: the impact of focal ischemia in regions beyond the penumbra. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1336886. [PMID: 38504666 PMCID: PMC10948541 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1336886] [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: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The changes in the necrotic core and the penumbra following induction of focal ischemia have been the focus of attention for some time. However, evidence shows, that ischemic injury is not confined to the primarily affected structures and may influence the remote areas as well. Yet many studies fail to probe into the structures beyond the penumbra, and possibly do not even find any significant results due to their short-term design, as secondary damage occurs later. This slower reaction can be perceived as a therapeutic opportunity, in contrast to the ischemic core defined as irreversibly damaged tissue, where the window for salvation is comparatively short. The pathologies in remote structures occur relatively frequently and are clearly linked to the post-stroke neurological outcome. In order to develop efficient therapies, a deeper understanding of what exactly happens in the exo-focal regions is necessary. The mechanisms of glia contribution to the ischemic damage in core/penumbra are relatively well described and include impaired ion homeostasis, excessive cell swelling, glutamate excitotoxic mechanism, release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and phagocytosis or damage propagation via astrocytic syncytia. However, little is known about glia involvement in post-ischemic processes in remote areas. In this literature review, we discuss the definitions of the terms "ischemic core", "penumbra" and "remote areas." Furthermore, we present evidence showing the array of structural and functional changes in the more remote regions from the primary site of focal ischemia, with a special focus on glia and the extracellular matrix. The collected information is compared with the processes commonly occurring in the ischemic core or in the penumbra. Moreover, the possible causes of this phenomenon and the approaches for investigation are described, and finally, we evaluate the efficacy of therapies, which have been studied for their anti-ischemic effect in remote areas in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludmila Koukalova
- Department of Neuroscience, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Martina Chmelova
- Department of Neuroscience, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
- Department of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Zuzana Amlerova
- Department of Neuroscience, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Lydia Vargova
- Department of Neuroscience, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
- Department of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
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Li Y, Xin Y, Qi MM, Wu ZY, Wang H, Zheng WC, Wang JX, Zhang DX, Zhang LM. VX-765 Alleviates Circadian Rhythm Disorder in a Rodent Model of Traumatic Brain Injury Plus Hemorrhagic Shock and Resuscitation. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2024; 19:3. [PMID: 38300393 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-024-10102-4] [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: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result in persistent complications, including circadian rhythm disorder, that substantially affect not only the injured people, but also the mood and social interactions with the family and the community. Pyroptosis in GFAP-positive astrocytes plays a vital role in inflammatory changes post-TBI. We determined whether VX-765, a low molecular weight caspase-1 inhibitor, has potential therapeutic value against astrocytic inflammation and pyroptosis in a rodent model of TBI plus hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation (HSR). A weight-drop plus bleeding and refusion model was used to establish traumatic exposure in rats. VX-765 (50 mg/kg) was injected via the femoral vein after resuscitation. Wheel-running activity was assessed, brain magnetic resonance images were evaluated, the expression of pyroptosis-associated molecules including cleaved caspase-1, gasdermin D (GSDMD), and interleukin-18 (IL-18) in astrocytes in the region of anterior hypothalamus, were explored 30 days post-trauma. VX-765-treated rats had significant improvement in circadian rhythm disorder, decreased mean diffusivity (MD) and mean kurtosis (MK), increased fractional anisotropy (FA), an elevated number and branches of astrocytes, and lower cleaved caspase-1, GSDMD, and IL-18 expression in astrocytes than TBI + HSR-treated rats. These results demonstrated that inhibition of pyroptosis-associated astrocytic activations in the anterior hypothalamus using VX-765 may ameliorate circadian rhythm disorder after trauma. In conclusion, we suggest that interventions targeting caspase-1-induced astrocytic pyroptosis by VX-765 are promising strategies to alleviate circadian rhythm disorder post-TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Cangzhou, China
| | - Yue Xin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Graduated School, Hebei Medical University, Cangzhou, China
| | - Man-Man Qi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Cangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-You Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Graduated School, Hebei Medical University, Cangzhou, China
| | - Han Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hebei Province Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine (Cangzhou No.2 Hospital), Cangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Chao Zheng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Graduated School, Hebei Medical University, Cangzhou, China
| | - Jie-Xia Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Graduated School, Hebei Medical University, Cangzhou, China
| | - Dong-Xue Zhang
- Department of Gerontology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, Cangzhou, China
| | - Li-Min Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hebei Province Cangzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine (Cangzhou No.2 Hospital), Cangzhou, China.
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine in Osteoarthrosis Research (Preparing), Cangzhou, China.
- Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine in Neurological Rehabilitation, Cangzhou, China.
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Janeckova L, Knotek T, Kriska J, Hermanova Z, Kirdajova D, Kubovciak J, Berkova L, Tureckova J, Camacho Garcia S, Galuskova K, Kolar M, Anderova M, Korinek V. Astrocyte-like subpopulation of NG2 glia in the adult mouse cortex exhibits characteristics of neural progenitor cells. Glia 2024; 72:245-273. [PMID: 37772368 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24471] [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: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Glial cells expressing neuron-glial antigen 2 (NG2), also known as oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs), play a critical role in maintaining brain health. However, their ability to differentiate after ischemic injury is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the properties and functions of NG2 glia in the ischemic brain. Using transgenic mice, we selectively labeled NG2-expressing cells and their progeny in both healthy brain and after focal cerebral ischemia (FCI). Using single-cell RNA sequencing, we classified the labeled glial cells into five distinct subpopulations based on their gene expression patterns. Additionally, we examined the membrane properties of these cells using the patch-clamp technique. Of the identified subpopulations, three were identified as OPCs, whereas the fourth subpopulation had characteristics indicative of cells likely to develop into oligodendrocytes. The fifth subpopulation of NG2 glia showed astrocytic markers and had similarities to neural progenitor cells. Interestingly, this subpopulation was present in both healthy and post-ischemic tissue; however, its gene expression profile changed after ischemia, with increased numbers of genes related to neurogenesis. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed the temporal expression of neurogenic genes and showed an increased presence of NG2 cells positive for Purkinje cell protein-4 at the periphery of the ischemic lesion 12 days after FCI, as well as NeuN-positive NG2 cells 28 and 60 days after injury. These results suggest the potential development of neuron-like cells arising from NG2 glia in the ischemic tissue. Our study provides insights into the plasticity of NG2 glia and their capacity for neurogenesis after stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Janeckova
- Laboratory of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Knotek
- Department of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Kriska
- Department of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Hermanova
- Department of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Denisa Kirdajova
- Department of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Kubovciak
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Linda Berkova
- Laboratory of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Tureckova
- Department of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Sara Camacho Garcia
- Department of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Katerina Galuskova
- Laboratory of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Kolar
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslava Anderova
- Department of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Vladimir Korinek
- Laboratory of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
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9
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Huang L, Yi L, Huang H, Zhan S, Chen R, Yue Z. Corticospinal tract: a new hope for the treatment of post-stroke spasticity. Acta Neurol Belg 2024; 124:25-36. [PMID: 37704780 PMCID: PMC10874326 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-023-02377-w] [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: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Stroke is the third leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Post-stroke spasticity (PSS) is the most common complication of stroke but represents only one of the many manifestations of upper motor neuron syndrome. As an upper motor neuron, the corticospinal tract (CST) is the only direct descending motor pathway that innervates the spinal motor neurons and is closely related to the recovery of limb function in patients with PSS. Therefore, promoting axonal remodeling in the CST may help identify new therapeutic strategies for PSS. In this review, we outline the pathological mechanisms of PSS, specifically their relationship with CST, and therapeutic strategies for axonal regeneration of the CST after stroke. We found it to be closely associated with astroglial scarring produced by astrocyte activation and its secretion of neurotrophic factors, mainly after the onset of cerebral ischemia. We hope that this review offers insight into the relationship between CST and PSS and provides a basis for further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linxing Huang
- College of Acupuncture, Massage and Rehabilitation, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, China
| | - Lizhen Yi
- College of Acupuncture, Massage and Rehabilitation, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, China
| | - Huiyuan Huang
- College of Acupuncture, Massage and Rehabilitation, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, China
| | - Sheng Zhan
- College of Acupuncture, Massage and Rehabilitation, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, China
| | - Ruixue Chen
- College of Acupuncture, Massage and Rehabilitation, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, China
| | - Zenghui Yue
- College of Acupuncture, Massage and Rehabilitation, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410208, China.
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10
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Fernández-Albarral JA, Ramírez AI, de Hoz R, Matamoros JA, Salobrar-García E, Elvira-Hurtado L, López-Cuenca I, Sánchez-Puebla L, Salazar JJ, Ramírez JM. Glaucoma: from pathogenic mechanisms to retinal glial cell response to damage. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1354569. [PMID: 38333055 PMCID: PMC10850296 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1354569] [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: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease of the retina characterized by the irreversible loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) leading to visual loss. Degeneration of RGCs and loss of their axons, as well as damage and remodeling of the lamina cribrosa are the main events in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. Different molecular pathways are involved in RGC death, which are triggered and exacerbated as a consequence of a number of risk factors such as elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), age, ocular biomechanics, or low ocular perfusion pressure. Increased IOP is one of the most important risk factors associated with this pathology and the only one for which treatment is currently available, nevertheless, on many cases the progression of the disease continues, despite IOP control. Thus, the IOP elevation is not the only trigger of glaucomatous damage, showing the evidence that other factors can induce RGCs death in this pathology, would be involved in the advance of glaucomatous neurodegeneration. The underlying mechanisms driving the neurodegenerative process in glaucoma include ischemia/hypoxia, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. In glaucoma, like as other neurodegenerative disorders, the immune system is involved and immunoregulation is conducted mainly by glial cells, microglia, astrocytes, and Müller cells. The increase in IOP produces the activation of glial cells in the retinal tissue. Chronic activation of glial cells in glaucoma may provoke a proinflammatory state at the retinal level inducing blood retinal barrier disruption and RGCs death. The modulation of the immune response in glaucoma as well as the activation of glial cells constitute an interesting new approach in the treatment of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose A. Fernández-Albarral
- Ramon Castroviejo Ophthalmological Research Institute, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Grupo UCM 920105, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana I. Ramírez
- Ramon Castroviejo Ophthalmological Research Institute, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Grupo UCM 920105, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa de Hoz
- Ramon Castroviejo Ophthalmological Research Institute, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Grupo UCM 920105, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José A. Matamoros
- Ramon Castroviejo Ophthalmological Research Institute, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Grupo UCM 920105, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Salobrar-García
- Ramon Castroviejo Ophthalmological Research Institute, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Grupo UCM 920105, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lorena Elvira-Hurtado
- Ramon Castroviejo Ophthalmological Research Institute, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Grupo UCM 920105, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inés López-Cuenca
- Ramon Castroviejo Ophthalmological Research Institute, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Grupo UCM 920105, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lidia Sánchez-Puebla
- Ramon Castroviejo Ophthalmological Research Institute, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Grupo UCM 920105, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, School of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan J. Salazar
- Ramon Castroviejo Ophthalmological Research Institute, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Grupo UCM 920105, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José M. Ramírez
- Ramon Castroviejo Ophthalmological Research Institute, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Grupo UCM 920105, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, School of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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11
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Zheng X, Yang J, Hou Y, Shi X, Liu K. Prediction of clinical progression in nervous system diseases: plasma glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Eur J Med Res 2024; 29:51. [PMID: 38216970 PMCID: PMC10785482 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01631-4] [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: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), an intracellular type III intermediate filament protein, provides structural support and maintains the mechanical integrity of astrocytes. It is predominantly found in the astrocytes which are the most abundant subtypes of glial cells in the brain and spinal cord. As a marker protein of astrocytes, GFAP may exert a variety of physiological effects in neurological diseases. For example, previous published literatures showed that autoimmune GFAP astrocytopathy is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Moreover, the studies of GFAP in brain tumors mainly focus on the predictive value of tumor volume. Furthermore, using biomarkers in the early setting will lead to a simplified and standardized way to estimate the poor outcome in traumatic brain injury (TBI) and ischemic stroke. Recently, observational studies revealed that cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) GFAP, as a valuable potential diagnostic biomarker for neurosyphilis, had a sensitivity of 76.60% and specificity of 85.56%. The reason plasma GFAP could serve as a promising biomarker for diagnosis and prediction of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is that it effectively distinguished AD dementia from multiple neurodegenerative diseases and predicted the individual risk of AD progression. In addition, GFAP can be helpful in differentiating relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) versus progressive MS (PMS). This review article aims to provide an overview of GFAP in the prediction of clinical progression in neuroinflammation, brain tumors, TBI, ischemic stroke, genetic disorders, neurodegeneration and other diseases in the CNS and to explore the potential therapeutic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Zheng
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Xinmin Street 1#, Changchun, China
| | - Jingyao Yang
- Institute of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yiwei Hou
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Xinmin Street 1#, Changchun, China
| | - Xinye Shi
- Department of Cardiology, Shanxi Yingkang Yisheng General Hospital, Renmin North Road 5188#, Yuncheng, China
| | - Kangding Liu
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Xinmin Street 1#, Changchun, China.
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12
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Guerin SP, Melbourne JK, Dang HQ, Shaji CA, Nixon K. Astrocyte Reactivity and Neurodegeneration in the Female Rat Brain Following Alcohol Dependence. Neuroscience 2023; 529:183-199. [PMID: 37598836 PMCID: PMC10810177 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2023.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that alcohol use disorder (AUD) may manifest itself differently in women compared to men. Women experience AUDs on an accelerated timeline and may have certain regional vulnerabilities. In male rats, neuronal cell death and astrocyte reactivity are noted following induction of alcohol dependence in an animal model of an AUD. However, the regional and temporal patterns of neurodegeneration and astrocyte reactivity have yet to be fully examined in females using this model. Therefore, adult female rats were exposed to a 4-day binge model of alcohol dependence followed by different periods of abstinence. Histological markers for FluoroJade B, a label of degenerating neurons, and vimentin, a marker for reactive astrocytes, were utilized. The expression of these markers in cortical and limbic regions was quantified immediately after their last dose (e.g., T0), or 2, 7, and 14 days later. Significant neuronal cell death was noted in the entorhinal cortex and the hippocampus, similar to previous reports in males, but also in several cortical regions not previously observed. Vimentin immunoreactivity was noted in the same regions as previously reported, in addition to three novel regions. Vimentin immunoreactivity also occurred at earlier and later time points in some cortical and hippocampal regions. These data suggest that both neuronal cell death and astrocyte reactivity could be more widespread in females compared to males. Therefore, this study provides a framework for specific regions and time points which should be examined in future studies of alcohol-induced damage that include female rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven P Guerin
- The University of Texas at Austin, Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Austin, TX 78712, United States
| | - Jennifer K Melbourne
- The University of Texas at Austin, Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Austin, TX 78712, United States
| | - Huy Q Dang
- The University of Texas at Austin, Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Austin, TX 78712, United States
| | - Chinchusha Anasooya Shaji
- The University of Texas at Austin, Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Austin, TX 78712, United States
| | - Kimberly Nixon
- The University of Texas at Austin, Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
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13
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Teder T, Haeggström JZ, Airavaara M, Lõhelaid H. Cross-talk between bioactive lipid mediators and the unfolded protein response in ischemic stroke. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2023; 168:106760. [PMID: 37331425 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2023.106760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Ischemic cerebral stroke is a severe medical condition that affects about 15 million people every year and is the second leading cause of death and disability globally. Ischemic stroke results in neuronal cell death and neurological impairment. Current therapies may not adequately address the deleterious metabolic changes and may increase neurological damage. Oxygen and nutrient depletion along with the tissue damage result in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, including the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR), and neuroinflammation in the affected area and cause cell death in the lesion core. The spatio-temporal production of lipid mediators, either pro-inflammatory or pro-resolving, decides the course and outcome of stroke. The modulation of the UPR as well as the resolution of inflammation promotes post-stroke cellular viability and neuroprotection. However, studies about the interplay between the UPR and bioactive lipid mediators remain elusive and this review gives insights about the crosstalk between lipid mediators and the UPR in ischemic stroke. Overall, the treatment of ischemic stroke is often inadequate due to lack of effective drugs, thus, this review will provide novel therapeutical strategies that could promote the functional recovery from ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarvi Teder
- Division of Physiological Chemistry II, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jesper Z Haeggström
- Division of Physiological Chemistry II, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mikko Airavaara
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Finland; Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Helike Lõhelaid
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Finland; Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Finland.
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14
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Xie X, Liu J. New role of astrocytes in neuroprotective mechanisms after ischemic stroke. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2023; 81:748-755. [PMID: 37647906 PMCID: PMC10468254 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1770352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are the most abundant cell subtypes in the central nervous system. Previous studies believed that astrocytes are supporting cells in the brain, which only provide nutrients for neurons. However, recent studies have found that astrocytes have more crucial and complex functions in the brain, such as neurogenesis, phagocytosis, and ischemic tolerance. After an ischemic stroke, the activated astrocytes can exert neuroprotective or neurotoxic effects through a variety of pathways. In this review, we will discuss the neuroprotective mechanisms of astrocytes in cerebral ischemia, and mainly focus on reactive astrocytosis or glial scar, neurogenesis, phagocytosis, and cerebral ischemic tolerance, for providing new strategies for the clinical treatment of stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyun Xie
- Guangxi Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Neurology, Nanning, Guangxi, China.
| | - Jingli Liu
- Guangxi Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Neurology, Nanning, Guangxi, China.
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15
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Abstract
Astrocyte endfeet enwrap the entire vascular tree within the central nervous system, where they perform important functions in regulating the blood-brain barrier (BBB), cerebral blood flow, nutrient uptake, and waste clearance. Accordingly, astrocyte endfeet contain specialized organelles and proteins, including local protein translation machinery and highly organized scaffold proteins, which anchor channels, transporters, receptors, and enzymes critical for astrocyte-vascular interactions. Many neurological diseases are characterized by the loss of polarization of specific endfoot proteins, vascular dysregulation, BBB disruption, altered waste clearance, or, in extreme cases, loss of endfoot coverage. A role for astrocyte endfeet has been demonstrated or postulated in many of these conditions. This review provides an overview of the development, composition, function, and pathological changes of astrocyte endfeet and highlights the gaps in our knowledge that future research should address.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca Díaz-Castro
- UK Dementia Research Institute and Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK;
| | - Stefanie Robel
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA;
| | - Anusha Mishra
- Department of Neurology Jungers Center for Neurosciences Research and Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA;
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16
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Kodati B, Zhang W, He S, Pham JH, Beall KJ, Swanger ZE, Krishnamoorthy VR, Harris PE, Hall T, Tran AV, Chaphalkar RM, Chavala SH, Stankowska DL, Krishnamoorthy RR. The endothelin receptor antagonist macitentan ameliorates endothelin-mediated vasoconstriction and promotes the survival of retinal ganglion cells in rats. FRONTIERS IN OPHTHALMOLOGY 2023; 3:1185755. [PMID: 38464735 PMCID: PMC10921982 DOI: 10.3389/fopht.2023.1185755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a chronic and progressive eye disease, commonly associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and characterized by optic nerve degeneration, cupping of the optic disc, and loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). The pathological changes in glaucoma are triggered by multiple mechanisms and both mechanical effects and vascular factors are thought to contribute to the etiology of glaucoma. Various studies have shown that endothelin-1 (ET-1), a vasoactive peptide, acting through its G protein coupled receptors, ETA and ETB, plays a pathophysiologic role in glaucoma. However, the mechanisms by which ET-1 contribute to neurodegeneration remain to be completely understood. Our laboratory and others demonstrated that macitentan (MAC), a pan endothelin receptor antagonist, has neuroprotective effects in rodent models of IOP elevation. The current study aimed to determine if oral administration of a dual endothelin antagonist, macitentan, could promote neuroprotection in an acute model of intravitreal administration of ET-1. We demonstrate that vasoconstriction following the intravitreal administration of ET-1 was attenuated by dietary administration of the ETA/ETB dual receptor antagonist, macitentan (5 mg/kg body weight) in retired breeder Brown Norway rats. ET-1 intravitreal injection produced a 40% loss of RGCs, which was significantly lower in macitentan-treated rats. We also evaluated the expression levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) at 24 h and 7 days post intravitreal administration of ET-1 in Brown Norway rats as well as following ET-1 treatment in cultured human optic nerve head astrocytes. We observed that at the 24 h time point the expression levels of GFAP was upregulated (indicative of glial activation) following intravitreal ET-1 administration in both retina and optic nerve head regions. However, following macitentan administration for 7 days after intravitreal ET-1 administration, we observed an upregulation of GFAP expression, compared to untreated rats injected intravitreally with ET-1 alone. Macitentan treatment in ET-1 administered rats showed protection of RGC somas but was not able to preserve axonal integrity and functionality. The endothelin receptor antagonist, macitentan, has neuroprotective effects in the retinas of Brown Norway rats acting through different mechanisms, including enhancement of RGC survival and reduction of ET-1 mediated vasoconstriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bindu Kodati
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Shaoqing He
- Department of Pathology, Children’s Health at Dallas, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Jennifer H. Pham
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Kallen J. Beall
- Department of General Surgery, Honor Health, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Zoe E. Swanger
- Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | | | - Payton E. Harris
- Department of Graduate Medical Education, Medical City, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Trent Hall
- Williams College, Williamstown, MA, United States
| | - Ashley V. Tran
- School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, United States
| | - Renuka M. Chaphalkar
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Sai H. Chavala
- Department of Surgery, Burnett School of Medicine at Texas Christian University (TCU), Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Dorota L. Stankowska
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Raghu R. Krishnamoorthy
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
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17
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Esmaeilzadeh A, Mohammadi V, Elahi R. Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) pathway in the immunopathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS); molecular approaches. Mol Biol Rep 2023:10.1007/s11033-023-08419-z. [PMID: 37204543 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08419-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an acute demyelinating disease with an autoimmune nature, followed by gradual neurodegeneration and enervating scar formation. Dysregulated immune response is a crucial dilemma contributing to the pathogenesis of MS. The role of chemokines and cytokines, such as transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), have been recently highlighted regarding their altered expressions in MS. TGF-β has three isoforms, TGF-β1, TGF-β2, and TGF-β3, that are structurally similar; however, they can show different functions. RESULTS All three isoforms are known to induce immune tolerance by modifying Foxp3+ regulatory T cells. Nevertheless, there are controversial reports concerning the role of TGF-β1 and 2 in the progression of scar formation in MS. At the same time, these proteins also improve oligodendrocyte differentiation and have shown neuroprotective behavior, two cellular processes that suppress the pathogenesis of MS. TGF-β3 shares the same properties but is less likely contributes to scar formation, and its direct role in MS remains elusive. DISCUSSION To develop novel neuroimmunological treatment strategies for MS, the optimal strategy could be the one that causes immune modulation, induces neurogenesis, stimulates remyelination, and prevents excessive scar formation. Therefore, regarding its immunological properties, TGF-β could be an appropriate candidate; however, contradictory results of previous studies have questioned its role and therapeutic potential in MS. In this review article, we provide an overview of the role of TGF-β in immunopathogenesis of MS, related clinical and animal studies, and the treatment potential of TGF-β in MS, emphasizing the role of different TGF-β isoforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdolreza Esmaeilzadeh
- Department of Immunology, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran.
- Cancer Gene Therapy Research Center (CGRC), Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran.
| | - Vahid Mohammadi
- School of Medicine, Zanjan University of medical sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Reza Elahi
- School of Medicine, Zanjan University of medical sciences, Zanjan, Iran
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Grover L, Sklioutovskaya-Lopez K, Parkman JK, Wang K, Hendricks E, Adams-Duffield J, Kim JH. Diet, sex, and genetic predisposition to obesity and type 2 diabetes modulate motor and anxiety-related behaviors in mice, and alter cerebellar gene expression. Behav Brain Res 2023; 445:114376. [PMID: 36868363 PMCID: PMC10065959 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
Obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are serious health problems linked to neurobehavioral alterations. We compared motor function, anxiety-related behavior, and cerebellar gene expression in TALLYHO/Jng (TH), a polygenic model prone to insulin resistance, obesity, and T2D, and normal C57BL/6 J (B6) mice. Male and female mice were weaned onto chow or high fat (HF) diet at 4 weeks of age (wk), and experiments conducted at young (5 wk) and old (14 - 20 wk) ages. In the open field, distance traveled was significantly lower in TH (vs. B6). For old mice, anxiety-like behavior (time in edge zone) was significantly increased for TH (vs B6), females (vs males), and for both ages HF diet (vs chow). In Rota-Rod testing, latency to fall was significantly shorter in TH (vs B6). For young mice, longer latencies to fall were observed for females (vs males) and HF (vs chow). Grip strength in young mice was greater in TH (vs B6), and there was a diet-strain interaction, with TH on HF showing increased strength, whereas B6 on HF showed decreased strength. For older mice, there was a strain-sex interaction, with B6 males (but not TH males) showing increased strength compared to the same strain females. There were significant sex differences in cerebellar mRNA levels, with Tnfα higher, and Glut4 and Irs2 lower in females (vs males). There were significant strain effects for Gfap and Igf1 mRNA levels with lower in TH (vs B6). Altered cerebellar gene expression may contribute to strain differences in coordination and locomotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence Grover
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA
| | | | - Jacaline K Parkman
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA
| | - Katherine Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA
| | - Emily Hendricks
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA
| | - Jessica Adams-Duffield
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA
| | - Jung Han Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25755, USA.
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19
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Mot YY, Moses EJ, Mohd Yusoff N, Ling KH, Yong YK, Tan JJ. Mesenchymal Stromal Cells-Derived Exosome and the Roles in the Treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023; 43:469-489. [PMID: 35103872 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-022-01201-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) could result in life-long disabilities and death. Though the mechanical insult causes primary injury, the secondary injury due to dysregulated responses following neuronal apoptosis and inflammation is often the cause for more detrimental consequences. Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) has been extensively investigated as the emerging therapeutic for TBI, and the functional properties are chiefly attributed to their secretome, especially the exosomes. Delivering these nanosize exosomes have shown to ameliorate post-traumatic injury and restore brain functions. Recent technology advances also allow engineering MSC-derived exosomes to carry specific biomolecules of interest to augment their therapeutic outcome. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiology of TBI and summarize the recent progress in the applications of MSCs-derived exosomes, the roles and the signalling mechanisms underlying the protective effects in the treatment of the TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yee Yik Mot
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, BertamKepala Batas, 13200, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Emmanuel Jairaj Moses
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, BertamKepala Batas, 13200, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
| | - Narazah Mohd Yusoff
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, BertamKepala Batas, 13200, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - King-Hwa Ling
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Yoke Keong Yong
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Jun Jie Tan
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, BertamKepala Batas, 13200, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
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20
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Alamri FF, Karamyan ST, Karamyan VT. A Low-Budget Photothrombotic Rodent Stroke Model. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2616:21-28. [PMID: 36715924 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2926-0_3] [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] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
A number of animal stroke models have been developed and used over the years to study the pathological mechanisms of this disorder and develop new therapies. Among them, the photothrombotic model of ischemic stroke has been central in various studies focusing on understanding of the basic biology of neural repair, identification and validation of key molecular targets involved in post-stroke recovery, and preclinical testing of various therapeutic approaches. To facilitate uniformity among various experimental groups using this expert-recommended mouse model of choice for stroke recovery studies, in this chapter we describe in detail a low-budget technique to induce photothrombosis in the mouse primary motor cortex. Additionally, we provide tips for conducting this procedure in other cerebral cortical regions of the mouse brain and in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faisal F Alamri
- College of Sciences and Health Profession, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Serob T Karamyan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yerevan State Medical University, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Vardan T Karamyan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, USA.
- Department of Foundational Medical Studies, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI, USA.
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Britsch DRS, Syeara N, Stowe AM, Karamyan VT. Rodent Stroke Models to Study Functional Recovery and Neural Repair. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2616:3-12. [PMID: 36715922 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2926-0_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] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Rodent ischemic stroke models are essential research tools for studying this highly prevalent disease and represent a critical element in the translational pipeline for development of new therapies. The majority of ischemic stroke models have been developed to study the acute phase of the disease and neuroprotective strategies, but a subset of models is better suited for studying stroke recovery. Each model therefore has characteristics that lend itself to certain types of investigations and outcome measures, and it is important to consider both explicit and implicit details when designing experiments that utilize each model. The following chapter briefly summarizes the known aspects of the main rodent stroke models with emphasis on their clinical relevance and suitability for studying recovery and neural repair following stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daimen R S Britsch
- Department of Neurology, Department of Neuroscience, The University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Nausheen Syeara
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, USA
| | - Ann M Stowe
- Department of Neurology, Department of Neuroscience, The University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Vardan T Karamyan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, USA.
- Department of Foundational Medical Studies, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI, USA.
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22
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Liang Z, Lou Y, Hao Y, Li H, Feng J, Liu S. The Relationship of Astrocytes and Microglia with Different Stages of Ischemic Stroke. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:2465-2480. [PMID: 37464832 PMCID: PMC10616922 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230718104634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is the predominant cause of severe morbidity and mortality worldwide. Post-stroke neuroinflammation has recently received increasing attention with the aim of providing a new effective treatment strategy for ischemic stroke. Microglia and astrocytes are major components of the innate immune system of the central nervous system. They can be involved in all phases of ischemic stroke, from the early stage, contributing to the first wave of neuronal cell death, to the late stage involving phagocytosis and repair. In the early stage of ischemic stroke, a vicious cycle exists between the activation of microglia and astrocytes (through astrocytic connexin 43 hemichannels), aggravating neuroinflammatory injury post-stroke. However, in the late stage of ischemic stroke, repeatedly activated microglia can induce the formation of glial scars by triggering reactive astrogliosis in the peri-infarct regions, which may limit the movement of activated microglia in reverse and restrict the diffusion of inflammation to healthy brain tissues, alleviating the neuroinflammatory injury poststroke. In this review, we elucidated the various roles of astrocytes and microglia and summarized their relationship with neuroinflammation. We also examined how astrocytes and microglia influence each other at different stages of ischemic stroke. Several potential therapeutic approaches targeting astrocytes and microglia in ischemic stroke have been reviewed. Understanding the details of astrocytemicroglia interaction processes will contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying ischemic stroke, contributing to the identification of new therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Liang
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yingyue Lou
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yulei Hao
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiachun Feng
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Songyan Liu
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Steliga A, Lietzau G, Wójcik S, Kowiański P. Transient cerebral ischemia induces the neuroglial proliferative activity and the potential to redirect neuroglial differentiation. J Chem Neuroanat 2023; 127:102192. [PMID: 36403746 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2022.102192] [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: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Brain injury triggers a complex response involving morphological changes, cellular proliferation, and differentiation of newly formed neuroglial subpopulations. These processes have been extensively studied in animal stroke models with permanent large vessel occlusion. However, less is known about neuroglial response after transient cerebral ischemia. Herein, we aimed to determine an astrocytic and NG2 glial proliferative response, potential changes in expression of developmental neuroglial markers: vimentin, nestin, oligodendrocyte transcription marker (Olig2), and a role of neuroglial subpopulations as a source of cells replenishing structural deficiencies in the ischemic brain. Results showed an induction of a proliferative neuroglial response in the peri-infarct area reflected in an increased percentage of GFAP/Ki67 + and NG2/Ki67 + cells within 4 weeks after transient MCAO. The peak of GFAP+ astrocytes proliferation of 30.3 ± 10.3% was observed in the first week, and a peak of NG2 + cells proliferation of 23.1 ± 11.8% in the second week after stroke. The presence of GFAP/Vimentin+ and GFAP/Nestin+ cells, as well as GFAP/Olig2 + and NG2/Olig2 + cells indicated an induction of developmental phenotypes with a differentiation potential. Finally, observed between day 1 and week 3 transient GFAP/NG2 + colocalization suggests the heterogeneous source of the reactive neuroglia after transient MCAO. Altogether, one-hour MCAO is a sufficient pathological stimulus to trigger a strong proliferative response of GFAP+ and NG2 + neuroglial cells and induce their early developmental phenotype. Our results suggest that transient ischemia may initiate a change in the direction of differentiation within the neuroglia cell population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Steliga
- Institute of Health Sciences, Pomeranian University in Słupsk, Bohaterów Westerplatte 64, 76-200 Słupsk, Poland
| | - Grazyna Lietzau
- Division of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1, 80-211 Gdańsk, Poland.
| | - Sławomir Wójcik
- Division of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1, 80-211 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Przemysław Kowiański
- Institute of Health Sciences, Pomeranian University in Słupsk, Bohaterów Westerplatte 64, 76-200 Słupsk, Poland; Division of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1, 80-211 Gdańsk, Poland.
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24
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Brandebura AN, Paumier A, Onur TS, Allen NJ. Astrocyte contribution to dysfunction, risk and progression in neurodegenerative disorders. Nat Rev Neurosci 2023; 24:23-39. [PMID: 36316501 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-022-00641-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 105.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
There is increasing appreciation that non-neuronal cells contribute to the initiation, progression and pathology of diverse neurodegenerative disorders. This Review focuses on the role of astrocytes in disorders including Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, Huntington disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The important roles astrocytes have in supporting neuronal function in the healthy brain are considered, along with studies that have demonstrated how the physiological properties of astrocytes are altered in neurodegenerative disorders and may explain their contribution to neurodegeneration. Further, the question of whether in neurodegenerative disorders with specific genetic mutations these mutations directly impact on astrocyte function, and may suggest a driving role for astrocytes in disease initiation, is discussed. A summary of how astrocyte transcriptomic and proteomic signatures are altered during the progression of neurodegenerative disorders and may relate to functional changes is provided. Given the central role of astrocytes in neurodegenerative disorders, potential strategies to target these cells for future therapeutic avenues are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley N Brandebura
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Adrien Paumier
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Tarik S Onur
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Nicola J Allen
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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25
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Chen KZ, Liu SX, Li YW, He T, Zhao J, Wang T, Qiu XX, Wu HF. Vimentin as a potential target for diverse nervous system diseases. Neural Regen Res 2022; 18:969-975. [PMID: 36254976 PMCID: PMC9827761 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.355744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Vimentin is a major type III intermediate filament protein that plays important roles in several basic cellular functions including cell migration, proliferation, and division. Although vimentin is a cytoplasmic protein, it also exists in the extracellular matrix and at the cell surface. Previous studies have shown that vimentin may exert multiple physiological effects in different nervous system injuries and diseases. For example, the studies of vimentin in spinal cord injury and stroke mainly focus on the formation of reactive astrocytes. Reduced glial scar, increased axonal regeneration, and improved motor function have been noted after spinal cord injury in vimentin and glial fibrillary acidic protein knockout (GFAP-/-VIM-/-) mice. However, attenuated glial scar formation in post-stroke in GFAP-/- VIM-/- mice resulted in abnormal neuronal network restoration and worse neurological recovery. These opposite results have been attributed to the multiple roles of glial scar in different temporal and spatial conditions. In addition, extracellular vimentin may be a neurotrophic factor that promotes axonal extension by interaction with the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor. In the pathogenesis of bacterial meningitis, cell surface vimentin is a meningitis facilitator, acting as a receptor of multiple pathogenic bacteria, including E. coli K1, Listeria monocytogenes, and group B streptococcus. Compared with wild type mice, VIM-/- mice are less susceptible to bacterial infection and exhibit a reduced inflammatory response, suggesting that vimentin is necessary to induce the pathogenesis of meningitis. Recently published literature showed that vimentin serves as a double-edged sword in the nervous system, regulating axonal regrowth, myelination, apoptosis, and neuroinflammation. This review aims to provide an overview of vimentin in spinal cord injury, stroke, bacterial meningitis, gliomas, and peripheral nerve injury and to discuss the potential therapeutic methods involving vimentin manipulation in improving axonal regeneration, alleviating infection, inhibiting brain tumor progression, and enhancing nerve myelination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang-Zhen Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Guangzhou Huadu Hospital Affiliated to Guangdong Medical University (Guangzhou Huadu District Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital), Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China,Dongguan City Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shu-Xian Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Guangzhou Huadu Hospital Affiliated to Guangdong Medical University (Guangzhou Huadu District Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital), Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yan-Wei Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Guangzhou Huadu Hospital Affiliated to Guangdong Medical University (Guangzhou Huadu District Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital), Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Tao He
- Dongguan City Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jie Zhao
- Dongguan City Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Surgery, the Third Hospital of Guangdong Medical University (Longjiang Hospital of Shunde District), Foshan, Guangdong Province, China,Correspondence to: Hong-Fu Wu, ; Xian-Xiu Qiu, ; Tao Wang, .
| | - Xian-Xiu Qiu
- Dongguan City Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong Province, China,Correspondence to: Hong-Fu Wu, ; Xian-Xiu Qiu, ; Tao Wang, .
| | - Hong-Fu Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Guangzhou Huadu Hospital Affiliated to Guangdong Medical University (Guangzhou Huadu District Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital), Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China,Dongguan City Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Tissue Engineering, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong Province, China,Correspondence to: Hong-Fu Wu, ; Xian-Xiu Qiu, ; Tao Wang, .
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Three-dimensional visualization of cerebral blood vessels and neural changes in thick ischemic rat brain slices using tissue clearing. Sci Rep 2022; 12:15897. [PMID: 36151103 PMCID: PMC9508267 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19575-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood vessels are three-dimensional (3D) in structure and precisely connected. Conventional histological methods are unsuitable for their analysis because of the destruction of functionally important topological 3D vascular structures. Tissue optical clearing techniques enable extensive volume imaging and data analysis without destroying tissue. This study therefore applied a tissue clearing technique to acquire high-resolution 3D images of rat brain vasculature using light-sheet and confocal microscopies. Rats underwent middle cerebral artery occlusion for 45 min followed by 24 h reperfusion with lectin injected directly into the heart for vascular staining. For acquiring 3D images of rat brain vasculature, 3-mm-thick brain slices were reconstructed using tissue clearing and light-sheet microscopy. Subsequently, after 3D rendering, the fitting of blood vessels to a filament model was used for analysis. The results revealed a significant reduction in vessel diameter and density in the ischemic region compared to those in contralesional non-ischemic regions. Immunostaining of 0.5-mm-thick brain slices revealed considerable neuronal loss and increased astrocyte fluorescence intensity in the ipsilateral region. Thus, these methods can provide more accurate data by broadening the scope of the analyzed regions of interest for examining the 3D cerebrovascular system and neuronal changes occurring in various brain disorders.
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27
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Hemati-Gourabi M, Cao T, Romprey MK, Chen M. Capacity of astrocytes to promote axon growth in the injured mammalian central nervous system. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:955598. [PMID: 36203815 PMCID: PMC9530187 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.955598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the regulation of axon growth after injury to the adult central nervous system (CNS) is crucial to improve neural repair. Following acute focal CNS injury, astrocytes are one cellular component of the scar tissue at the primary lesion that is traditionally associated with inhibition of axon regeneration. Advances in genetic models and experimental approaches have broadened knowledge of the capacity of astrocytes to facilitate injury-induced axon growth. This review summarizes findings that support a positive role of astrocytes in axon regeneration and axon sprouting in the mature mammalian CNS, along with potential underlying mechanisms. It is important to recognize that astrocytic functions, including modulation of axon growth, are context-dependent. Evidence suggests that the local injury environment, neuron-intrinsic regenerative potential, and astrocytes’ reactive states determine the astrocytic capacity to support axon growth. An integrated understanding of these factors will optimize therapeutic potential of astrocyte-targeted strategies for neural repair.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tuoxin Cao
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Megan K. Romprey
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, Lexington, KY, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Meifan Chen
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, Lexington, KY, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
- *Correspondence: Meifan Chen,
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Chen M, Ingle L, Plautz EJ, Kong X, Tang R, Ghosh N, Romprey MK, Fenske WK, Goldberg MP. LZK-dependent stimulation of astrocyte reactivity promotes corticospinal axon sprouting. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:969261. [PMID: 36187291 PMCID: PMC9520579 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.969261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Injury to the adult mammalian central nervous system induces compensatory plasticity of spared axons—referred to as collateral axon sprouting—that can facilitate neural recovery. The contribution of reactive astrocytes to axon sprouting remains elusive. Here, we sought to investigate the role of axon degeneration-reactive astrocytes in the regulation of collateral axon sprouting that occurs in the mouse spinal cord after unilateral photothrombotic stroke of the primary motor cortex. We identified astrocytic leucine zipper-bearing kinase (LZK) as a positive regulator of astrocyte reactivity to corticospinal axon degeneration. Remarkably, genetic stimulation of astrocyte reactivity, via LZK overexpression in adult astrocytes, enhanced corticospinal axon sprouting. LZK promoted the production of astrocyte-derived ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) that likely enhanced axon growth in mice with astrocytic LZK overexpression after injury. Our finding that LZK-dependent stimulation of astrocyte reactivity promotes corticospinal axon sprouting highlights the potential of engineering astrocytes to support injury-induced axon plasticity for neural repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meifan Chen
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
- *Correspondence: Meifan Chen,
| | - Laura Ingle
- Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Erik J. Plautz
- Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Xiangmei Kong
- Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Rui Tang
- Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Neil Ghosh
- Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Megan K. Romprey
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - William K. Fenske
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Mark P. Goldberg
- Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
- Mark P. Goldberg,
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Nie QQ, Zheng ZQ, Liao J, Li YC, Chen YT, Wang TY, Yuan GQ, Wang Z, Xue Q. SPP1/AnxA1/TIMP1 as Essential Genes Regulate the Inflammatory Response in the Acute Phase of Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion in Rats. J Inflamm Res 2022; 15:4873-4890. [PMID: 36046663 PMCID: PMC9420928 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s369690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ischemic injury in stroke is followed by extensive neurovascular inflammation and changes in ischemic penumbra gene expression patterns. However, the key molecules involved in the inflammatory response during the acute phase of ischemic stroke remain unclear. Methods Gene expression profiles of two rat ischemic stroke-related data sets, GSE61616 and GSE97537, were downloaded from the GEO database for Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Then, GEO2R was used to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Furthermore, 170 differentially expressed intersection genes were screened and analyzed for Gene Ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment. Candidate genes and miRNAs were obtained by DAVID, Metascape, Cytoscape, STRING, and TargetScan. Finally, the rat middle cerebral artery occlusion-reperfusion (MCAO/R) model was constructed, and qRT-PCR was used to verify the predicted potential miRNA molecule and its target genes. Results GO and KEGG analyses showed that 170 genes were highly associated with inflammatory cell activation and cytokine production. After cluster analysis, seven hub genes highly correlated with post-stroke neuroinflammation were obtained: Cxcl1, Kng1, Il6, AnxA1, TIMP1, SPP1, and Ccl6. The results of TargetScan further suggested that miR-340-5p may negatively regulate SPP1, AnxA1, and TIMP1 simultaneously. In the ischemic penumbra of rats 24 h after MCAO/R, the level of miR-340-5p significantly decreased compared with the control group, while the concentration of SPP1, AnxA1, and TIMP1 increased. Time-course studies demonstrated that the mRNA expression levels of SPP1, AnxA1, and TIMP1 fluctuated dramatically throughout the acute phase of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R). Conclusion Our study suggests that differentially expressed genes SPP1, TIMP1, and ANXA1 may play a vital role in the inflammatory response during the acute phase of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. These genes may be negatively regulated by miR-340-5p. Our results may provide new insights into the complex pathophysiological mechanisms of secondary inflammation after stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian-Qian Nie
- Department of Neurology & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zong-Qing Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Juan Liao
- Department of Neurology & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Chao Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan-Ting Chen
- Department of Neurology & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Tian-Ye Wang
- Department of Neurology & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Gui-Qiang Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changshu Second People's Hospital, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhong Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Qun Xue
- Department of Neurology & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
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Synaptamide Modulates Astroglial Activity in Mild Traumatic Brain Injury. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20080538. [PMID: 36005540 PMCID: PMC9410022 DOI: 10.3390/md20080538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
At present, the study of the neurotropic activity of polyunsaturated fatty acid ethanolamides (N-acylethanolamines) is becoming increasingly important. N-docosahexaenoylethanolamine (synaptamide, DHEA) is a highly active metabolite of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) with neuroprotective, synaptogenic, neuritogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties in the nervous system. Synaptamide tested in the present study was obtained using a chemical modification of DHA isolated from squid Berryteuthis magister liver. The results of this study demonstrate the effects of synaptamide on the astroglial response to injury in the acute (1 day) and chronic (7 days) phases of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) development. HPLC-MS study revealed several times increase of synaptamide concentration in the cerebral cortex and serum of experimental animals after subcutaneous administration (10 mg/kg/day). Using immunohistochemistry, it was shown that synaptamide regulates the activation of GFAP- and S100β-positive astroglia, reduce nNOS-positive immunostaining, and stimulates the secretion of neurotrophin BDNF. Dynamics of superoxide dismutase production in synaptamide treatment confirm the antioxidant efficacy of the test compound. We found a decrease in TBI biomarkers such as GFAP, S100β, and IL-6 in the blood serum of synaptamide-treated experimental animals using Western blot analysis. The results indicate the high therapeutic potential of synaptamide in reducing the severity of the brain damage consequences.
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Novel Therapeutic Strategies for Ischemic Stroke: Recent Insights into Autophagy. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:3450207. [PMID: 35720192 PMCID: PMC9200548 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3450207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Autophagy is a conserved cellular catabolic pathway that maintains cellular homeostasis by removal of damaged proteins and organelles, which is critical for the maintenance of energy and function homeostasis of cells. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that autophagy plays important roles in pathophysiological mechanisms under ischemic stroke. Previous investigations show that autophagy serves as a “double-edged sword” in ischemic stroke as it can either promote the survival of neuronal cells or induce cell death in special conditions. Following ischemic stroke, autophagy is activated or inhibited in several cell types in brain, including neurons, astrocytes, and microglia, as well as microvascular endothelial cells, which involves in inflammatory activation, modulation of microglial phenotypes, and blood-brain barrier permeability. However, the exact mechanisms of underlying the role of autophagy in ischemic stroke are not fully understood. This review focuses on the recent advances regarding potential molecular mechanisms of autophagy in different cell types. The focus is also on discussing the “double-edged sword” effect of autophagy in ischemic stroke and its possible underlying mechanisms. In addition, potential therapeutic strategies for ischemic stroke targeting autophagy are also reviewed.
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Differential Regulation of the Immune System in Peripheral Blood Following Ischemic Stroke. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:2747043. [PMID: 35722467 PMCID: PMC9200570 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2747043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Method 108 IS samples and 47 matched controls were obtained from the GEO database. Immune-related genes (IRGs) and their associated drugs were collected from the ImmPort and PharmGBK databases, respectively. Random forest (RF) regression and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression were applied to identify immune-related genetic biomarkers (IRGBs) of IS, and accuracy was verified using neural network models. Finally, proportion changes of various immune cells in peripheral blood of IS patients were evaluated using CIBERSORT and xCell and correlation analyses were performed between IRGBs and differentially distributed immune cells. Results A total of 537 genes were differentially expressed between IS and control samples. Four immune-related differential expressed genes identified by regression analysis presented strong predictive power (AUC = 0.909) which we suggeseted them as immune-related genetic biomarkers (IRGBs). We also demonstrated six immune-related genes targeted by known drugs. In addition, post-IS immune system presented an increase in the proportion of innate immune cells and a decrease in adaptive immune cells in the peripheral circulation, and IRGBs showing significance were associated with this process. Conclusion The study identified CARD11, ICAM2, VIM, and CD19 as immune-related genetic biomarkers of IS. Six immune-related DEGs targeted by known drugs were found and provide new candidate drug targets for modulating the post-IS immune system. The innate immune cells and adaptive immune cells are diversified in the post-IS immune system, and IRGBs might play important role during this process.
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Hu C, Chen X, Wang M, Zhang L, Gao D, Zhang L. Analgecine protects against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion through apoptosis inhibition and anti-neuroinflammation in rats. Neuropeptides 2022; 93:102230. [PMID: 35378359 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2022.102230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Stroke influence the quality of life of patients and leave big public health issues as acute cerebrovascular disease all over the world. Analgecine (AGC) relieves pain and accelerates repair of nerve injury. This current study aims to observe the pharmacological effects and related mechanisms of AGC in cerebral ischemic stroke among middle cerebral artery ischemia-reperfusion (MCAO) rats. After seven days of AGC administration, motor function was enhanced as evidenced by the prehensile traction test. Morphological ameliorations were observed by immunohistochemistry analysis. The protein expression levels of HSP70, Bcl-2, Bax, TRAF-6, MyD88, BDNF, NGF, pCREB, CREB, pTrkB, TrkB, pAKT and AKT were estimated by western blot. Meanwhile, AGC alleviated MCAO-induced inflammation chiefly by decreasing inflammatory cytokines in rat brain tissues. These results above suggested that MCAO-caused brain infarction was obviously alleviated by AGC. The immunohistochemistry data showed that AGC reduced neuronal injury and apoptosis, and inhibited microglia and astrocytes activation. The protein results suggested the expression of apoptosis-relevant proteins decreased among AGC treated groups and the neurotrophin related proteins were obviously enhanced by CREB/BDNF/TrkB/AKT and HSP70/Bcl-2/Bax pathways. Collectively, the results demonstrated that AGC primarily promoted neuro-nutrition, reduced the injury of nerve apoptosis and ameliorated neuroinflammation. In summary, AGC played a neuroprotective role, which had provided reliable evidence for AGC to be a potential drug in treating stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoying Hu
- Department of Pharmacy, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing Engineering Research Center for Nervous System Drugs, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Diseases of Ministry of Education, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing Engineering Research Center for Nervous System Drugs, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Diseases of Ministry of Education, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Mingyang Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing Engineering Research Center for Nervous System Drugs, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Diseases of Ministry of Education, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing Engineering Research Center for Nervous System Drugs, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Diseases of Ministry of Education, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Dan Gao
- Department of Pharmacy, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing Engineering Research Center for Nervous System Drugs, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Diseases of Ministry of Education, Beijing 100053, China.
| | - Lan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Beijing Engineering Research Center for Nervous System Drugs, Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Diseases of Ministry of Education, Beijing 100053, China.
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Lawal O, Ulloa Severino FP, Eroglu C. The role of astrocyte structural plasticity in regulating neural circuit function and behavior. Glia 2022; 70:1467-1483. [PMID: 35535566 PMCID: PMC9233050 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Brain circuits undergo substantial structural changes during development, driven by the formation, stabilization, and elimination of synapses. Synaptic connections continue to undergo experience‐dependent structural rearrangements throughout life, which are postulated to underlie learning and memory. Astrocytes, a major glial cell type in the brain, are physically in contact with synaptic circuits through their structural ensheathment of synapses. Astrocytes strongly contribute to the remodeling of synaptic structures in healthy and diseased central nervous systems by regulating synaptic connectivity and behaviors. However, whether structural plasticity of astrocytes is involved in their critical functions at the synapse is unknown. This review will discuss the emerging evidence linking astrocytic structural plasticity to synaptic circuit remodeling and regulation of behaviors. Moreover, we will survey possible molecular and cellular mechanisms regulating the structural plasticity of astrocytes and their non‐cell‐autonomous effects on neuronal plasticity. Finally, we will discuss how astrocyte morphological changes in different physiological states and disease conditions contribute to neuronal circuit function and dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwadamilola Lawal
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Francesco Paolo Ulloa Severino
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Neuroscience and Psychology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Cagla Eroglu
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Houlton J, Zubkova OV, Clarkson AN. Recovery of Post-Stroke Spatial Memory and Thalamocortical Connectivity Following Novel Glycomimetic and rhBDNF Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094817. [PMID: 35563207 PMCID: PMC9101131 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Stroke-induced cognitive impairments remain of significant concern, with very few treatment options available. The involvement of glycosaminoglycans in neuroregenerative processes is becoming better understood and recent advancements in technology have allowed for cost-effective synthesis of novel glycomimetics. The current study evaluated the therapeutic potential of two novel glycomimetics, compound A and G, when administered systemically five-days post-photothrombotic stroke to the PFC. As glycosaminoglycans are thought to facilitate growth factor function, we also investigated the combination of our glycomimetics with intracerebral, recombinant human brain-derived neurotrophic factor (rhBDNF). C56BL/6J mice received sham or stroke surgery and experimental treatment (day-5), before undergoing the object location recognition task (OLRT). Four-weeks post-surgery, animals received prelimbic injections of the retrograde tracer cholera toxin B (CTB), before tissue was collected for quantification of thalamo-PFC connectivity and reactive astrogliosis. Compound A or G treatment alone modulated a degree of reactive astrogliosis yet did not influence spatial memory performance. Contrastingly, compound G+rhBDNF treatment significantly improved spatial memory, dampened reactive astrogliosis and limited stroke-induced loss of connectivity between the PFC and midline thalamus. As rhBDNF treatment had negligible effects, these findings support compound A acted synergistically to enhance rhBDNF to restrict secondary degeneration and facilitate functional recovery after PFC stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josh Houlton
- Department of Anatomy, Brain Health Research Centre and Brain Research New Zealand, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand;
| | - Olga V. Zubkova
- The Ferrier Research Institute, Gracefield Research Centre, Victoria University of Wellington, 69 Gracefield Road, Lower Hutt 5040, New Zealand;
| | - Andrew N. Clarkson
- Department of Anatomy, Brain Health Research Centre and Brain Research New Zealand, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand;
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +64-3-279-7326
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Babcock KJ, Abdolmohammadi B, Kiernan PT, Mahar I, Cherry JD, Alvarez VE, Goldstein LE, Stein TD, McKee AC, Huber BR. Interface astrogliosis in contact sport head impacts and military blast exposure. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2022; 10:52. [PMID: 35418116 PMCID: PMC9009003 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-022-01358-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to military blast and repetitive head impacts (RHI) in contact sports is associated with increased risk of long-term neurobehavioral sequelae and cognitive deficits, and the neurodegenerative disease chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). At present, the exact pathogenic mechanisms of RHI and CTE are unknown, and no targeted therapies are available. Astrocytes have recently emerged as key mediators of the multicellular response to head trauma. Here, we investigated interface astrogliosis in blast and impact neurotrauma, specifically in the context of RHI and early stage CTE. We compared postmortem brain tissue from former military veterans with a history of blast exposure with and without a neuropathological diagnosis of CTE, former American football players with a history of RHI with and without a neuropathological diagnosis of CTE, and control donors without a history of blast, RHI exposure or CTE diagnosis. Using quantitative immunofluorescence, we found that astrogliosis was higher at the grey-white matter interface in the dorsolateral frontal cortex, with mixed effects at the subpial surface and underlying cortex, in both blast and RHI donors with and without CTE, compared to controls. These results indicate that certain astrocytic alterations are associated with both impact and blast neurotrauma, and that different astroglial responses take place in distinct brain regions.
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Astroglial and oligodendroglial markers in the cuprizone animal model for de- and remyelination. Histochem Cell Biol 2022; 158:15-38. [PMID: 35380252 PMCID: PMC9246805 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-022-02096-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Myelin loss with consecutive axon degeneration and impaired remyelination are the underlying causes of progressive disease in patients with multiple sclerosis. Astrocytes are suggested to play a major role in these processes. The unmasking of distinct astrocyte identities in health and disease would help to understand the pathophysiological mechanisms in which astrocytes are involved. However, the number of specific astrocyte markers is limited. Therefore, we performed immunohistochemical studies and analyzed various markers including GFAP, vimentin, S100B, ALDH1L1, and LCN2 during de- and remyelination using the toxic murine cuprizone animal model. Applying this animal model, we were able to confirm overlapping expression of vimentin and GFAP and highlighted the potential of ALDH1L1 as a pan-astrocytic marker, in agreement with previous data. Only a small population of GFAP-positive astrocytes in the corpus callosum highly up-regulated LCN2 at the peak of demyelination and S100B expression was found in a subset of oligodendroglia as well, thus S100B turned out to have a limited use as a particular astroglial marker. Additionally, numerous GFAP-positive astrocytes in the lateral corpus callosum did not express S100B, further strengthening findings of heterogeneity in the astrocytic population. In conclusion, our results acknowledged that GFAP, vimentin, LCN2, and ALDH1L1 serve as reliable marker to identify activated astrocytes during cuprizone-induced de- and remyelination. Moreover, there were clear regional and temporal differences in protein and mRNA expression levels and patterns of the studied markers, generally between gray and white matter structures.
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Abstract
More than 27 yr ago, the vimentin knockout (Vim-/- ) mouse was reported to develop and reproduce without an obvious phenotype, implying that this major cytoskeletal protein was nonessential. Subsequently, comprehensive and careful analyses have revealed numerous phenotypes in Vim-/- mice and their organs, tissues, and cells, frequently reflecting altered responses in the recovery of tissues following various insults or injuries. These findings have been supported by cell-based experiments demonstrating that vimentin intermediate filaments (IFs) play a critical role in regulating cell mechanics and are required to coordinate mechanosensing, transduction, signaling pathways, motility, and inflammatory responses. This review highlights the essential functions of vimentin IFs revealed from studies of Vim-/- mice and cells derived from them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen M Ridge
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | - John E Eriksson
- Cell Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Åbo Akademi University, FIN-20521 Turku, Finland
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, FIN-20521 Turku, Finland
- Euro-Bioimaging European Research Infrastructure Consortium (ERIC), FIN-20521 Turku, Finland
| | - Milos Pekny
- Laboratory of Astrocyte Biology and CNS Regeneration, Center for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, 413 90 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales 2300, Australia
| | - Robert D Goldman
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
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Dzyubenko E, Manrique-Castano D, Pillath-Eilers M, Vasileiadou P, Reinhard J, Faissner A, Hermann DM. Tenascin-C restricts reactive astrogliosis in the ischemic brain. Matrix Biol 2022; 110:1-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Subretinal Implantation of Human Primary RPE Cells Cultured on Nanofibrous Membranes in Minipigs. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10030669. [PMID: 35327471 PMCID: PMC8945676 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10030669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The development of primary human retinal pigmented epithelium (hRPE) for clinical transplantation purposes on biodegradable scaffolds is indispensable. We hereby report the results of the subretinal implantation of hRPE cells on nanofibrous membranes in minipigs. Methods: The hRPEs were collected from human cadaver donor eyes and cultivated on ultrathin nanofibrous carriers prepared via the electrospinning of poly(L-lactide-co-DL-lactide) (PDLLA). “Libechov” minipigs (12–36 months old) were used in the study, supported by preoperative tacrolimus immunosuppressive therapy. The subretinal implantation of the hRPE-nanofibrous carrier was conducted using general anesthesia via a custom-made injector during standard three-port 23-gauge vitrectomy, followed by silicone oil endotamponade. The observational period lasted 1, 2, 6 and 8 weeks, and included in vivo optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the retina, as well as post mortem immunohistochemistry using the following antibodies: HNAA and STEM121 (human cell markers); Bestrophin and CRALBP (hRPE cell markers); peanut agglutining (PNA) (cone photoreceptor marker); PKCα (rod bipolar marker); Vimentin, GFAP (macroglial markers); and Iba1 (microglial marker). Results: The hRPEs assumed cobblestone morphology, persistent pigmentation and measurable trans-epithelial electrical resistance on the nanofibrous PDLLA carrier. The surgical delivery of the implants in the subretinal space of the immunosuppressed minipigs was successfully achieved and monitored by fundus imaging and OCT. The implanted hRPEs were positive for HNAA and STEM121 and were located between the minipig’s neuroretina and RPE layers at week 2 post-implantation, which was gradually attenuated until week 8. The neuroretina over the implants showed rosette or hypertrophic reaction at week 6. The implanted cells expressed the typical RPE marker bestrophin throughout the whole observation period, and a gradual diminishing of the CRALBP expression in the area of implantation at week 8 post-implantation was observed. The transplanted hRPEs appeared not to form a confluent layer and were less capable of keeping the inner and outer retinal segments intact. The cone photoreceptors adjacent to the implant scaffold were unchanged initially, but underwent a gradual change in structure after hRPE implantation; the retina above and below the implant appeared relatively healthy. The glial reaction of the transplanted and host retina showed Vimentin and GFAP positivity from week 1 onward. Microglial activation appeared in the retinal area of the transplant early after the surgery, which seemed to move into the transplant area over time. Conclusions: The differentiated hRPEs can serve as an alternative cell source for RPE replacement in animal studies. These cells can be cultivated on nanofibrous PDLLA and implanted subretinally into minipigs using standard 23-gauge vitrectomy and implantation injector. The hRPE-laden scaffolds demonstrated relatively good incorporation into the host retina over an eight-week observation period, with some indication of a gliotic scar formation, and a likely neuroinflammatory response in the transplanted area despite the use of immunosuppression.
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The Effects of Modified Curcumin Preparations on Glial Morphology in Aging and Neuroinflammation. Neurochem Res 2022; 47:813-824. [PMID: 34988899 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03499-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is characterized by reactive microglia and astrocytes (collectively called gliosis) in the central nervous system and is considered as one of the main pathological hallmarks in different neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, age-related dementia, and multiple sclerosis. Upon activation, glia undergoes structural and morphological changes such as the microglial cells swell in size and astrocytes become bushy, which play both beneficial and detrimental roles. Hence, they are unable to perform the normal physiological role in brain immunity. Curcumin, a cytokine suppressive anti-inflammatory drug, has a high proven pre-clinical potency and efficacy to reverse chronic neuroinflammation by attenuating the activation and morphological changes that occur in the microglia and astrocytes. This review will highlight the recent findings on the tree structure changes of microglia and astrocytes in neuroinflammation and the effects of curcumin against the activation and morphology of glial cells.
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Loss-of-function manipulations to identify roles of diverse glia and stromal cells during CNS scar formation. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 387:337-350. [PMID: 34164732 PMCID: PMC8975763 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-021-03487-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Scar formation is the replacement of parenchymal cells by stromal cells and fibrotic extracellular matrix. Until as recently as 25 years ago, little was known about the major functional contributions of different neural and non-neural cell types in the formation of scar tissue and tissue fibrosis in the CNS. Concepts about CNS scar formation are evolving rapidly with the availability of different types of loss-of-function technologies that allow mechanistic probing of cellular and molecular functions in models of CNS disorders in vivo. Such loss-of-function studies are beginning to reveal that scar formation and tissue fibrosis in the CNS involves complex interactions amongst multiple types of CNS glia and non-neural stromal cells. For example, attenuating functions of the CNS resident glial cells, astrocytes or microglia, can disrupt the formation of limitans borders that form around stromal cell scars, which leads to increased spread of inflammation, increased loss of neural tissue, and increased fibrosis. Insights are being gained into specific neuropathological mechanisms whereby specific dysfunctions of different types of CNS glia could cause or contribute to disorder-related tissue pathology and dysfunction. CNS glia, as well as fibrosis-producing stromal cells, are emerging as potential major contributors to diverse CNS disorders either through loss- or gain-of-functions, and are thereby emerging as important potential targets for interventions. In this article, we will review and discuss the effects on CNS scar formation and tissue repair of loss-of-function studies targeted at different specific cell types in various disorder models in vivo.
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Shen XY, Gao ZK, Han Y, Yuan M, Guo YS, Bi X. Activation and Role of Astrocytes in Ischemic Stroke. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:755955. [PMID: 34867201 PMCID: PMC8635513 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.755955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke refers to the disorder of blood supply of local brain tissue caused by various reasons. It has high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Astrocytes are the most abundant glial cells in the central nervous system (CNS). They are responsible for the homeostasis, nutrition, and protection of the CNS and play an essential role in many nervous system diseases’ physiological and pathological processes. After stroke injury, astrocytes are activated and play a protective role through the heterogeneous and gradual changes of their gene expression, morphology, proliferation, and function, that is, reactive astrocytes. However, the position of reactive astrocytes has always been a controversial topic. Many studies have shown that reactive astrocytes are a double-edged sword with both beneficial and harmful effects. It is worth noting that their different spatial and temporal expression determines astrocytes’ various functions. Here, we comprehensively review the different roles and mechanisms of astrocytes after ischemic stroke. In addition, the intracellular mechanism of astrocyte activation has also been involved. More importantly, due to the complex cascade reaction and action mechanism after ischemic stroke, the role of astrocytes is still difficult to define. Still, there is no doubt that astrocytes are one of the critical factors mediating the deterioration or improvement of ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Ya Shen
- Graduate School of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen-Kun Gao
- Graduate School of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Han
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Mei Yuan
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-Sha Guo
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Xia Bi
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
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Alia C, Cangi D, Massa V, Salluzzo M, Vignozzi L, Caleo M, Spalletti C. Cell-to-Cell Interactions Mediating Functional Recovery after Stroke. Cells 2021; 10:3050. [PMID: 34831273 PMCID: PMC8623942 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischemic damage in brain tissue triggers a cascade of molecular and structural plastic changes, thus influencing a wide range of cell-to-cell interactions. Understanding and manipulating this scenario of intercellular connections is the Holy Grail for post-stroke neurorehabilitation. Here, we discuss the main findings in the literature related to post-stroke alterations in cell-to-cell interactions, which may be either detrimental or supportive for functional recovery. We consider both neural and non-neural cells, starting from astrocytes and reactive astrogliosis and moving to the roles of the oligodendrocytes in the support of vulnerable neurons and sprouting inhibition. We discuss the controversial role of microglia in neural inflammation after injury and we conclude with the description of post-stroke alterations in pyramidal and GABAergic cells interactions. For all of these sections, we review not only the spontaneous evolution in cellular interactions after ischemic injury, but also the experimental strategies which have targeted these interactions and that are inspiring novel therapeutic strategies for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Alia
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR), Via G. Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (V.M.); (M.S.); (M.C.); (C.S.)
| | - Daniele Cangi
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drugs and Child Health Area, School of Psychology, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy;
| | - Verediana Massa
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR), Via G. Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (V.M.); (M.S.); (M.C.); (C.S.)
| | - Marco Salluzzo
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR), Via G. Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (V.M.); (M.S.); (M.C.); (C.S.)
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drugs and Child Health Area, School of Psychology, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy;
| | - Livia Vignozzi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35121 Padua, Italy;
| | - Matteo Caleo
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR), Via G. Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (V.M.); (M.S.); (M.C.); (C.S.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35121 Padua, Italy;
| | - Cristina Spalletti
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR), Via G. Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (V.M.); (M.S.); (M.C.); (C.S.)
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Central Nervous System Tissue Regeneration after Intracerebral Hemorrhage: The Next Frontier. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102513. [PMID: 34685493 PMCID: PMC8534252 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite marked advances in surgical techniques and understanding of secondary brain injury mechanisms, the prognosis of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) remains devastating. Harnessing and promoting the regenerative potential of the central nervous system may improve the outcomes of patients with hemorrhagic stroke, but approaches are still in their infancy. In this review, we discuss the regenerative phenomena occurring in animal models and human ICH, provide results related to cellular and molecular mechanisms of the repair process including by microglia, and review potential methods to promote tissue regeneration in ICH. We aim to stimulate research involving tissue restoration after ICH.
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Wang L, Liu J, Xu J, Zhang W, Wang R. Coupling of GPR30 mediated neurogenesis and protection with astroglial Aromatase-STAT3 signaling in rat hippocampus after global cerebral ischemia. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 535:111394. [PMID: 34274445 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Our previous study revealed that G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor-30 (GPR30) agonist G1 serves as a viable alternative neuroprotectant of 17β-estradiol (E2) to attenuate neuroinflammation and improve cognitive function after global cerebral ischemia (GCI). Aromatase, the key enzyme of E2 biosynthesis, is widely expressed in animal and human brain, and its expression and activity are mediated by selective estrogen receptor modulators. In the present study, we explored the long-term protective and reparative effects of G1 in ovariectomized rats after GCI. We used the aromatase inhibitor letrozole to elucidate whether G1 and brain-derived E2 together induce beneficial effects. Our results showed that G1 administration for 28 days a) significantly increased neurogenesis in the hippocampal sub-granular zone and CA1 regions; b) declined CA1 neuronal impairment in a long-term fashion; c) enhanced expression of synaptic proteins and cognitive function; d) and prevented reactive astrocytes loss, wherein aromatase and brain-derived estrogen levels were markedly increased. Additionally, expression and activation of transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) were increased in CA1 astrocytes of G1-treated animals. Letrozole abolished all of the observed benefits of G1. Our results suggest that GPR30 activation mediates long-term neuroprotection and neurogenesis in the hippocampus following GCI, with potential mechanism coupling with the activation of astroglial aromatase-STAT3 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wang
- School of Public Health of North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China; Dementia and Dyscognitive Key Lab, Tangshan, Hebei, 063000, China; International Science & Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, Tangshan, Hebei, 063000, China
| | - Jiahao Liu
- School of Public Health of North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China; Dementia and Dyscognitive Key Lab, Tangshan, Hebei, 063000, China; International Science & Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, Tangshan, Hebei, 063000, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Dementia and Dyscognitive Key Lab, Tangshan, Hebei, 063000, China; International Science & Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, Tangshan, Hebei, 063000, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China
| | - Wenli Zhang
- School of Public Health of North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China; Dementia and Dyscognitive Key Lab, Tangshan, Hebei, 063000, China; International Science & Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, Tangshan, Hebei, 063000, China
| | - Ruimin Wang
- School of Public Health of North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China; Dementia and Dyscognitive Key Lab, Tangshan, Hebei, 063000, China; International Science & Technology Cooperation Base of Geriatric Medicine, Tangshan, Hebei, 063000, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, Hebei, 063210, China.
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Vay SU, Olschewski DN, Petereit H, Lange F, Nazarzadeh N, Gross E, Rabenstein M, Blaschke SJ, Fink GR, Schroeter M, Rueger MA. Osteopontin regulates proliferation, migration, and survival of astrocytes depending on their activation phenotype. J Neurosci Res 2021; 99:2822-2843. [PMID: 34510519 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The glycoprotein osteopontin is highly upregulated in central nervous system (CNS) disorders such as ischemic stroke. Osteopontin regulates cell growth, cell adhesion, homeostasis, migration, and survival of various cell types. Accordingly, osteopontin is considered an essential regulator of regeneration and repair in the ischemic milieu. Astrocytes are the most abundant cells in the CNS and play significant roles in health and disease. Astrocytes are involved in homeostasis, promote neuroprotection, and regulate synaptic plasticity. Upon activation, astrocytes may adopt different phenotypes, termed A1 and A2. The direct effects of osteopontin on astrocytes, especially in distinct activation states, are yet unknown. The current study aimed to elucidate the impact of osteopontin on resting and active astrocytes. We established an inflammatory in vitro model of activated (A1) primary astrocytes derived from neonatal wistar rats by exposure to a distinct combination of proinflammatory cytokines. To model ischemic stroke in vitro, astrocytes were subjected to oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) in the presence or absence of osteopontin. Osteopontin modulated the activation phenotype by attenuating A1- and restoring A2-marker expression without compromising the active astrocytes' immunocompetence. Osteopontin promoted the proliferation of active and the migration of resting astrocytes. Following transient OGD, osteopontin mitigated the delayed ongoing death of primary astrocytes, promoting their survival. Data suggest that osteopontin differentially regulates essential functions of resting and active astrocytes and confirm a significant regulatory role of osteopontin in an in vitro ischemia model. Furthermore, the data suggest that osteopontin constitutes a promising target for experimental therapies modulating neuroregeneration and repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Ulrike Vay
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Daniel Navin Olschewski
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Helena Petereit
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Felix Lange
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Nilufar Nazarzadeh
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Elena Gross
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Monika Rabenstein
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Stefan Johannes Blaschke
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany
| | - Gereon Rudolf Fink
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany
| | - Michael Schroeter
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany
| | - Maria Adele Rueger
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany
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Smit T, Deshayes NAC, Borchelt DR, Kamphuis W, Middeldorp J, Hol EM. Reactive astrocytes as treatment targets in Alzheimer's disease-Systematic review of studies using the APPswePS1dE9 mouse model. Glia 2021; 69:1852-1881. [PMID: 33634529 PMCID: PMC8247905 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes regulate synaptic communication and are essential for proper brain functioning. In Alzheimer's disease (AD) astrocytes become reactive, which is characterized by an increased expression of intermediate filament proteins and cellular hypertrophy. Reactive astrocytes are found in close association with amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposits. Synaptic communication and neuronal network function could be directly modulated by reactive astrocytes, potentially contributing to cognitive decline in AD. In this review, we focus on reactive astrocytes as treatment targets in AD in the APPswePS1dE9 AD mouse model, a widely used model to study amyloidosis and gliosis. We first give an overview of the model; that is, how it was generated, which cells express the transgenes, and the effect of its genetic background on Aβ pathology. Subsequently, to determine whether modifying reactive astrocytes in AD could influence pathogenesis and cognition, we review studies using this mouse model in which interventions were directly targeted at reactive astrocytes or had an indirect effect on reactive astrocytes. Overall, studies specifically targeting astrocytes to reduce astrogliosis showed beneficial effects on cognition, which indicates that targeting astrocytes should be included in developing novel therapies for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar Smit
- Department of Translational NeuroscienceUniversity Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Swammerdam Institute for Life SciencesCenter for Neuroscience, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Natasja A. C. Deshayes
- Department of Translational NeuroscienceUniversity Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Swammerdam Institute for Life SciencesCenter for Neuroscience, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - David R. Borchelt
- Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, McKnight Brain Institute, Department of NeuroscienceUniversity of Florida College of MedicineGainesvilleFloridaUSA
| | - Willem Kamphuis
- Netherlands Institute for NeuroscienceAn Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and SciencesAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Jinte Middeldorp
- Department of Translational NeuroscienceUniversity Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Department of ImmunobiologyBiomedical Primate Research CentreRijswijkThe Netherlands
| | - Elly M. Hol
- Department of Translational NeuroscienceUniversity Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
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Differential effects of the cell cycle inhibitor, olomoucine, on functional recovery and on responses of peri-infarct microglia and astrocytes following photothrombotic stroke in rats. J Neuroinflammation 2021; 18:168. [PMID: 34332596 PMCID: PMC8325288 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-021-02208-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Following stroke, changes in neuronal connectivity in tissue surrounding the infarct play an important role in both spontaneous recovery of neurological function and in treatment-induced improvements in function. Microglia and astrocytes influence this process through direct interactions with the neurons and as major determinants of the local tissue environment. Subpopulations of peri-infarct glia proliferate early after stroke providing a possible target to modify recovery. Treatment with cell cycle inhibitors can reduce infarct volume and improve functional recovery. However, it is not known whether these inhibitors can influence neurological function or alter the responses of peri-infarct glia without reducing infarction. The present study aimed to address these issues by testing the effects of the cell cycle inhibitor, olomoucine, on recovery and peri-infarct changes following photothrombotic stroke. Methods Stroke was induced by photothrombosis in the forelimb sensorimotor cortex in Sprague-Dawley rats. Olomoucine was administered at 1 h and 24 h after stroke induction. Forelimb function was monitored up to 29 days. The effects of olomoucine on glial cell responses in peri-infarct tissue were evaluated using immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Results Olomoucine treatment did not significantly affect maximal infarct volume. Recovery of the affected forelimb on a placing test was impaired in olomoucine-treated rats, whereas recovery in a skilled reaching test was substantially improved. Olomoucine treatment produced small changes in aspects of Iba1 immunolabelling and in the number of CD68-positive cells in cerebral cortex but did not selectively modify responses in peri-infarct tissue. The content of the astrocytic protein, vimentin, was reduced by 30% in the region of the lesion in olomoucine-treated rats. Conclusions Olomoucine treatment modified functional recovery in the absence of significant changes in infarct volume. The effects on recovery were markedly test dependent, adding to evidence that skilled tasks requiring specific training and general measures of motor function can be differentially modified by some interventions. The altered recovery was not associated with specific changes in key responses of peri-infarct microglia, even though these cells were considered a likely target for early olomoucine treatment. Changes detected in peri-infarct reactive astrogliosis could contribute to the altered patterns of functional recovery. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12974-021-02208-w.
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Role of Extracellular Vimentin in Cancer-Cell Functionality and Its Influence on Cell Monolayer Permeability Changes Induced by SARS-CoV-2 Receptor Binding Domain. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147469. [PMID: 34299089 PMCID: PMC8303762 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The cytoskeletal protein vimentin is secreted under various physiological conditions. Extracellular vimentin exists primarily in two forms: attached to the outer cell surface and secreted into the extracellular space. While surface vimentin is involved in processes such as viral infections and cancer progression, secreted vimentin modulates inflammation through reduction of neutrophil infiltration, promotes bacterial elimination in activated macrophages, and supports axonal growth in astrocytes through activation of the IGF-1 receptor. This receptor is overexpressed in cancer cells, and its activation pathway has significant roles in general cellular functions. In this study, we investigated the functional role of extracellular vimentin in non-tumorigenic (MCF-10a) and cancer (MCF-7) cells through the evaluation of its effects on cell migration, proliferation, adhesion, and monolayer permeability. Upon treatment with extracellular recombinant vimentin, MCF-7 cells showed increased migration, proliferation, and adhesion, compared to MCF-10a cells. Further, MCF-7 monolayers showed reduced permeability, compared to MCF-10a monolayers. It has been shown that the receptor binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein can alter blood-brain barrier integrity. Surface vimentin also acts as a co-receptor between the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and the cell-surface angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor. Therefore, we also investigated the permeability of MCF-10a and MCF-7 monolayers upon treatment with extracellular recombinant vimentin, and its modulation of the SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain. These findings show that binding of extracellular recombinant vimentin to the cell surface enhances the permeability of both MCF-10a and MCF-7 monolayers. However, with SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain addition, this effect is lost with MCF-7 monolayers, as the extracellular vimentin binds directly to the viral domain. This defines an influence of extracellular vimentin in SARS-CoV-2 infections.
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