1
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Cleary CM, Browning JL, Armbruster M, Sobrinho CR, Strain ML, Jahanbani S, Soto-Perez J, Hawkins VE, Dulla CG, Olsen ML, Mulkey DK. Kir4.1 channels contribute to astrocyte CO 2/H +-sensitivity and the drive to breathe. Commun Biol 2024; 7:373. [PMID: 38548965 PMCID: PMC10978993 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06065-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes in the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) stimulate breathing in response to CO2/H+, however, it is not clear how these cells detect changes in CO2/H+. Considering Kir4.1/5.1 channels are CO2/H+-sensitive and important for several astrocyte-dependent processes, we consider Kir4.1/5.1 a leading candidate CO2/H+ sensor in RTN astrocytes. To address this, we show that RTN astrocytes express Kir4.1 and Kir5.1 transcripts. We also characterized respiratory function in astrocyte-specific inducible Kir4.1 knockout mice (Kir4.1 cKO); these mice breathe normally under room air conditions but show a blunted ventilatory response to high levels of CO2, which could be partly rescued by viral mediated re-expression of Kir4.1 in RTN astrocytes. At the cellular level, astrocytes in slices from astrocyte-specific inducible Kir4.1 knockout mice are less responsive to CO2/H+ and show a diminished capacity for paracrine modulation of respiratory neurons. These results suggest Kir4.1/5.1 channels in RTN astrocytes contribute to respiratory behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin M Cleary
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Jack L Browning
- School of Neuroscience and Genetics, Genomics and Computational Biology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Moritz Armbruster
- Department of Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Cleyton R Sobrinho
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Monica L Strain
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Sarvin Jahanbani
- School of Neuroscience and Genetics, Genomics and Computational Biology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Jaseph Soto-Perez
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Virginia E Hawkins
- Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Chris G Dulla
- Department of Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michelle L Olsen
- School of Neuroscience and Genetics, Genomics and Computational Biology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Daniel K Mulkey
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
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2
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Ahmadzadeh E, Polglase GR, Stojanovska V, Herlenius E, Walker DW, Miller SL, Allison BJ. Does fetal growth restriction induce neuropathology within the developing brainstem? J Physiol 2023; 601:4667-4689. [PMID: 37589339 PMCID: PMC10953350 DOI: 10.1113/jp284191] [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: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a complex obstetric issue describing a fetus that does not reach its genetic growth potential. The primary cause of FGR is placental dysfunction resulting in chronic fetal hypoxaemia, which in turn causes altered neurological, cardiovascular and respiratory development, some of which may be pathophysiological, particularly for neonatal life. The brainstem is the critical site of cardiovascular, respiratory and autonomic control, but there is little information describing how chronic hypoxaemia and the resulting FGR may affect brainstem neurodevelopment. This review provides an overview of the brainstem-specific consequences of acute and chronic hypoxia, and what is known in FGR. In addition, we discuss how brainstem structural alterations may impair functional control of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Finally, we highlight the clinical and translational findings of the potential roles of the brainstem in maintaining cardiorespiratory adaptation in the transition from fetal to neonatal life under normal conditions and in response to the pathological environment that arises during development in growth-restricted infants. This review emphasises the crucial role that the brainstem plays in mediating cardiovascular and respiratory responses during fetal and neonatal life. We assess whether chronic fetal hypoxaemia might alter structure and function of the brainstem, but this also serves to highlight knowledge gaps regarding FGR and brainstem development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Ahmadzadeh
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical ResearchClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Graeme R. Polglase
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical ResearchClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Vanesa Stojanovska
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical ResearchClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Eric Herlenius
- Department of Women's and Children's HealthKarolinska InstitutetSolnaSweden
- Astrid Lindgren Children´s HospitalKarolinska University Hospital StockholmSolnaSweden
| | - David W. Walker
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical ResearchClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- Neurodevelopment in Health and Disease Research Program, School of Health and Biomedical SciencesRoyal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT)MelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Suzanne L. Miller
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical ResearchClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Beth J. Allison
- The Ritchie CentreHudson Institute of Medical ResearchClaytonVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash UniversityClaytonVictoriaAustralia
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3
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Gonye EC, Bayliss DA. Criteria for central respiratory chemoreceptors: experimental evidence supporting current candidate cell groups. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1241662. [PMID: 37719465 PMCID: PMC10502317 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1241662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
An interoceptive homeostatic system monitors levels of CO2/H+ and provides a proportionate drive to respiratory control networks that adjust lung ventilation to maintain physiologically appropriate levels of CO2 and rapidly regulate tissue acid-base balance. It has long been suspected that the sensory cells responsible for the major CNS contribution to this so-called respiratory CO2/H+ chemoreception are located in the brainstem-but there is still substantial debate in the field as to which specific cells subserve the sensory function. Indeed, at the present time, several cell types have been championed as potential respiratory chemoreceptors, including neurons and astrocytes. In this review, we advance a set of criteria that are necessary and sufficient for definitive acceptance of any cell type as a respiratory chemoreceptor. We examine the extant evidence supporting consideration of the different putative chemoreceptor candidate cell types in the context of these criteria and also note for each where the criteria have not yet been fulfilled. By enumerating these specific criteria we hope to provide a useful heuristic that can be employed both to evaluate the various existing respiratory chemoreceptor candidates, and also to focus effort on specific experimental tests that can satisfy the remaining requirements for definitive acceptance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth C. Gonye
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
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4
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Zhang C, Guo J. Diverse functions of the inward-rectifying potassium channel Kir5.1 and its relationship with human diseases. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1127893. [PMID: 36923292 PMCID: PMC10008857 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1127893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The inward-rectifying potassium channel subunit Kir5.1, encoded by Kcnj16, can form functional heteromeric channels (Kir4.1/5.1 and Kir4.2/5.1) with Kir4.1 (encoded by Kcnj10) or Kir4.2 (encoded by Kcnj15). It is expressed in the kidneys, pancreas, thyroid, brain, and other organs. Although Kir5.1 cannot form functional homomeric channels in most cases, an increasing number of studies in recent years have found that the functions of this subunit should not be underestimated. Kir5.1 can confer intracellular pH sensitivity to Kir4.1/5.1 channels, which can act as extracellular potassium sensors in the renal distal convoluted tubule segment. This segment plays an important role in maintaining potassium and acid-base balances. This review summarizes the various pathophysiological processes involved in Kir5.1 and the expression changes of Kir5.1 as a differentially expressed gene in various cancers, as well as describing several other disease phenotypes caused by Kir5.1 dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaojie Zhang
- Nephrology Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Province Research Center for Kidney Disease, Zhengzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Chronic Kidney Disease in Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jia Guo
- Nephrology Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Province Research Center for Kidney Disease, Zhengzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Chronic Kidney Disease in Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
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5
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Staruschenko A, Hodges MR, Palygin O. Kir5.1 channels: potential role in epilepsy and seizure disorders. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 323:C706-C717. [PMID: 35848616 PMCID: PMC9448276 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00235.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Inwardly rectifying potassium (Kir) channels are broadly expressed in many mammalian organ systems, where they contribute to critical physiological functions. However, the importance and function of the Kir5.1 channel (encoded by the KCNJ16 gene) have not been fully recognized. This review focuses on the recent advances in understanding the expression patterns and functional roles of Kir5.1 channels in fundamental physiological systems vital to potassium homeostasis and neurological disorders. Recent studies have described the role of Kir5.1-forming Kir channels in mouse and rat lines with mutations in the Kcnj16 gene. The animal research reveals distinct renal and neurological phenotypes, including pH and electrolyte imbalances, blunted ventilatory responses to hypercapnia/hypoxia, and seizure disorders. Furthermore, it was confirmed that these phenotypes are reminiscent of those in patient cohorts in which mutations in the KCNJ16 gene have also been identified, further suggesting a critical role for Kir5.1 channels in homeostatic/neural systems health and disease. Future studies that focus on the many functional roles of these channels, expanded genetic screening in human patients, and the development of selective small-molecule inhibitors for Kir5.1 channels, will continue to increase our understanding of this unique Kir channel family member.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Staruschenko
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
- Hypertension and Kidney Research Center, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
- James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, Tampa, Florida
| | - Matthew R Hodges
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Oleg Palygin
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
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6
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Gourine AV, Dale N. Brain H + /CO 2 sensing and control by glial cells. Glia 2022; 70:1520-1535. [PMID: 35102601 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Maintenance of constant brain pH is critically important to support the activity of individual neurons, effective communication within the neuronal circuits, and, thus, efficient processing of information by the brain. This review article focuses on how glial cells detect and respond to changes in brain tissue pH and concentration of CO2 , and then trigger systemic and local adaptive mechanisms that ensure a stable milieu for the operation of brain circuits. We give a detailed account of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying sensitivity of glial cells to H+ and CO2 and discuss the role of glial chemosensitivity and signaling in operation of three key mechanisms that work in concert to keep the brain pH constant. We discuss evidence suggesting that astrocytes and marginal glial cells of the brainstem are critically important for central respiratory CO2 chemoreception-a fundamental physiological mechanism that regulates breathing in accord with changes in blood and brain pH and partial pressure of CO2 in order to maintain systemic pH homeostasis. We review evidence suggesting that astrocytes are also responsible for the maintenance of local brain tissue extracellular pH in conditions of variable acid loads associated with changes in the neuronal activity and metabolism, and discuss potential role of these glial cells in mediating the effects of CO2 on cerebral vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander V Gourine
- Centre for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nicholas Dale
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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7
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Gilles O. K + -independent Kir blockade by external Cs + and Ba 2. Physiol Rep 2022; 10:e15200. [PMID: 35274814 PMCID: PMC8915156 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cations such as Cs+ and Ba2+ are known to block K+ currents by entering an open channel and binding to the selectivity filter, where they obstruct the pore and block diffusion of the permeant ion. This obstruction is voltage- and K+ -dependent and is relieved by the trans permeant ion flux. The present patch-clamp study on Xenopus muscle cells shows that, unlike the voltage-activated K+ (Kv) channels, blockade of the inward rectifier K+ (Kir) channels by external foreign cations results from the combination of pore obstruction with a new and independent mechanism. This new blockade is independent of the K+ concentrations and flux and acts indiscriminately on both the outward and the inward Kir components. External Cs+ and Ba2+ compete for this blockade with free access to common channel sites. These features suggest that the blocking cations do not need to enter the channel for this new mechanism, and should bind to the extracellular side of the channel. When K+ fluxes are flowing outward, the pore obstruction is relieved for both Kir and Kv currents, and the K+ -independent blockade here described is responsible for a selective Kir inhibition, justifying the use of these external cations as tools in cell physiology studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ouanounou Gilles
- Université Paris‐SaclayCNRSInstitut des Neurosciences Paris‐SaclaySaclayFrance
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8
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Mulkey DK, Olsen ML, Ou M, Cleary CM, Du G. Putative Roles of Astrocytes in General Anesthesia. Curr Neuropharmacol 2022; 20:5-15. [PMID: 33588730 PMCID: PMC9199541 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666210215120755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
General anesthetics are a mainstay of modern medicine, and although much progress has been made towards identifying molecular targets of anesthetics and neural networks contributing to endpoints of general anesthesia, our understanding of how anesthetics work remains unclear. Reducing this knowledge gap is of fundamental importance to prevent unwanted and life-threatening side-effects associated with general anesthesia. General anesthetics are chemically diverse, yet they all have similar behavioral endpoints, and so for decades, research has sought to identify a single underlying mechanism to explain how anesthetics work. However, this effort has given way to the 'multiple target hypothesis' as it has become clear that anesthetics target many cellular proteins, including GABAA receptors, glutamate receptors, voltage-independent K+ channels, and voltagedependent K+, Ca2+ and Na+ channels, to name a few. Yet, despite evidence that astrocytes are capable of modulating multiple aspects of neural function and express many anesthetic target proteins, they have been largely ignored as potential targets of anesthesia. The purpose of this brief review is to highlight the effects of anesthetic on astrocyte processes and identify potential roles of astrocytes in behavioral endpoints of anesthesia (hypnosis, amnesia, analgesia, and immobilization).
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel K. Mulkey
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, StorrsCT, USA;,Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs CT, USA; E-mail:
| | | | | | - Colin M. Cleary
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, StorrsCT, USA
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9
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Gourine AV, Spyer KM. Geoff Burnstock, purinergic signalling, and chemosensory control of breathing. Auton Neurosci 2021; 235:102839. [PMID: 34198056 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2021.102839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This article is the authors' contribution to the tribute issue in honour of Geoffrey Burnstock, the founder of this journal and the field of purinergic signalling. We give a brief account of the results of experimental studies which at the beginning received valuable input from Geoff, who both directly and indirectly influenced our research undertaken over the last two decades. Research into the mechanisms controlling breathing identified ATP as the common mediator of the central and peripheral chemosensory transduction. Studies of the sources and mechanisms of chemosensory ATP release in the CNS suggested that this signalling pathway is universally engaged in conditions of increased metabolic demand by brain glial cells - astrocytes. Astrocytes appear to function as versatile CNS metabolic sensors that detect changes in brain tissue pH, CO2, oxygen, and cerebral perfusion pressure. Experimental studies on various aspects of astrocyte biology generated data indicating that the function of these omnipresent glial cells and communication between astrocytes and neurons are governed by purinergic signalling, - first discovered by Geoff Burnstock in the 70's and researched through his entire scientific career.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander V Gourine
- Centre for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, Physiology & Pharmacology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
| | - K Michael Spyer
- Centre for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, Physiology & Pharmacology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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10
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Jaudon F, Albini M, Ferroni S, Benfenati F, Cesca F. A developmental stage- and Kidins220-dependent switch in astrocyte responsiveness to brain-derived neurotrophic factor. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:jcs258419. [PMID: 34279618 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.258419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Astroglial cells are key to maintain nervous system homeostasis. Neurotrophins are known for their pleiotropic effects on neuronal physiology but also exert complex functions to glial cells. Here, we investigated (i) the signaling competence of mouse embryonic and postnatal primary cortical astrocytes exposed to brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and, (ii) the role of kinase D-interacting substrate of 220 kDa (Kidins220), a transmembrane scaffold protein that mediates neurotrophin signaling in neurons. We found a shift from a kinase-based response in embryonic cells to a response predominantly relying on intracellular Ca2+ transients [Ca2+]i within postnatal cultures, associated with a decrease in the synthesis of full-length BDNF receptor TrkB, with Kidins220 contributing to the BDNF-activated kinase and [Ca2+]i pathways. Finally, Kidins220 participates in the homeostatic function of astrocytes by controlling the expression of the ATP-sensitive inward rectifier potassium channel 10 (Kir4.1) and the metabolic balance of embryonic astrocytes. Overall, our data contribute to the understanding of the complex role played by astrocytes within the central nervous system, and identify Kidins220 as a novel actor in the increasing number of pathologies characterized by astrocytic dysfunctions. This article has an associated First Person interview with the first authors of the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanny Jaudon
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Martina Albini
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Stefano Ferroni
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132 Genova, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Fabrizia Cesca
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
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11
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Valori CF, Possenti A, Brambilla L, Rossi D. Challenges and Opportunities of Targeting Astrocytes to Halt Neurodegenerative Disorders. Cells 2021; 10:cells10082019. [PMID: 34440788 PMCID: PMC8395029 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are a heterogeneous group of disorders whose incidence is likely to duplicate in the next 30 years along with the progressive aging of the western population. Non-cell-specific therapeutics or therapeutics designed to tackle aberrant pathways within neurons failed to slow down or halt neurodegeneration. Yet, in the last few years, our knowledge of the importance of glial cells to maintain the central nervous system homeostasis in health conditions has increased exponentially, along with our awareness of their fundamental and multifaced role in pathological conditions. Among glial cells, astrocytes emerge as promising therapeutic targets in various neurodegenerative disorders. In this review, we present the latest evidence showing the astonishing level of specialization that astrocytes display to fulfill the demands of their neuronal partners as well as their plasticity upon injury. Then, we discuss the controversies that fuel the current debate on these cells. We tackle evidence of a potential beneficial effect of cell therapy, achieved by transplanting astrocytes or their precursors. Afterwards, we introduce the different strategies proposed to modulate astrocyte functions in neurodegeneration, ranging from lifestyle changes to environmental cues. Finally, we discuss the challenges and the recent advancements to develop astrocyte-specific delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara F. Valori
- Molecular Neuropathology of Neurodegenerative Diseases, German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Correspondence: (C.F.V.); (D.R.); Tel.: +49-7071-9254-122 (C.F.V.); +39-0382-592064 (D.R.)
| | - Agostino Possenti
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.P.); (L.B.)
| | - Liliana Brambilla
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.P.); (L.B.)
| | - Daniela Rossi
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.P.); (L.B.)
- Correspondence: (C.F.V.); (D.R.); Tel.: +49-7071-9254-122 (C.F.V.); +39-0382-592064 (D.R.)
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12
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Van Horn MR, Benfey NJ, Shikany C, Severs LJ, Deemyad T. Neuron-astrocyte networking: astrocytes orchestrate and respond to changes in neuronal network activity across brain states and behaviors. J Neurophysiol 2021; 126:627-636. [PMID: 34259027 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00062.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are known to play many important roles in brain function. However, research underscoring the extent to which astrocytes modulate neuronal activity is still underway. Here we review the latest evidence regarding the contribution of astrocytes to neuronal oscillations across the brain, with a specific focus on how astrocytes respond to changes in brain state (e.g., sleep, arousal, stress). We then discuss the general mechanisms by which astrocytes signal to neurons to modulate neuronal activity, ultimately driving changes in behavior, followed by a discussion of how astrocytes contribute to respiratory rhythms in the medulla. Finally, we contemplate the possibility that brain stem astrocytes could modulate brainwide oscillations by communicating the status of oxygenation to higher cortical areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion R Van Horn
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nicholas J Benfey
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Colleen Shikany
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington
| | - Liza J Severs
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington.,Department of Physiology and Biophysics, The University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Tara Deemyad
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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13
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Ferreira N, Gonçalves NP, Jan A, Jensen NM, van der Laan A, Mohseni S, Vægter CB, Jensen PH. Trans-synaptic spreading of alpha-synuclein pathology through sensory afferents leads to sensory nerve degeneration and neuropathic pain. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2021; 9:31. [PMID: 33632316 PMCID: PMC7905893 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-021-01131-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Pain is a common non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s disease (PD), with current limited knowledge of its pathophysiology. Here, we show that peripheral inoculation of mouse alpha-synuclein (α-Syn) pre-formed fibrils, in a transgenic mouse model of PD, elicited retrograde trans-synaptic spreading of α-Syn pathology (pSer129) across sensory neurons and dorsal nerve roots, reaching central pain processing regions, including the spinal dorsal horn and the projections of the anterolateral system in the central nervous system (CNS). Pathological peripheral to CNS propagation of α-Syn aggregates along interconnected neuronal populations within sensory afferents, was concomitant with impaired nociceptive response, reflected by mechanical allodynia, reduced nerve conduction velocities (sensory and motor) and degeneration of small- and medium-sized myelinated fibers. Our findings show a link between the transneuronal propagation of α-Syn pathology with sensory neuron dysfunction and neuropathic impairment, suggesting promising avenues of investigation into the mechanisms underlying pain in PD.
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14
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Manis AD, Palygin O, Isaeva E, Levchenko V, LaViolette PS, Pavlov TS, Hodges MR, Staruschenko A. Kcnj16 knockout produces audiogenic seizures in the Dahl salt-sensitive rat. JCI Insight 2021; 6:143251. [PMID: 33232300 PMCID: PMC7821607 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.143251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Kir5.1 is an inwardly rectifying potassium (Kir) channel subunit abundantly expressed in the kidney and brain. We previously established the physiologic consequences of a Kcnj16 (gene encoding Kir5.1) knockout in the Dahl salt-sensitive rat (SSKcnj16-/-), which caused electrolyte/pH dysregulation and high-salt diet-induced mortality. Since Kir channel gene mutations may alter neuronal excitability and are linked to human seizure disorders, we hypothesized that SSKcnj16-/- rats would exhibit neurological phenotypes, including increased susceptibility to seizures. SSKcnj16-/- rats exhibited increased light sensitivity (fMRI) and reproducible sound-induced tonic-clonic audiogenic seizures confirmed by electroencephalography. Repeated seizure induction altered behavior, exacerbated hypokalemia, and led to approximately 38% mortality in male SSKcnj16-/- rats. Dietary potassium supplementation did not prevent audiogenic seizures but mitigated hypokalemia and prevented mortality induced by repeated seizures. These results reveal a distinct, nonredundant role for Kir5.1 channels in the brain, introduce a rat model of audiogenic seizures, and suggest that yet-to-be identified mutations in Kcnj16 may cause or contribute to seizure disorders.
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MESH Headings
- Acoustic Stimulation/adverse effects
- Animals
- Disease Models, Animal
- Electroencephalography
- Epilepsy, Reflex/etiology
- Epilepsy, Reflex/genetics
- Epilepsy, Reflex/physiopathology
- Female
- Gene Knockout Techniques
- Humans
- Hypokalemia/etiology
- Hypokalemia/genetics
- Male
- Mutation
- Potassium Channels, Inwardly Rectifying/deficiency
- Potassium Channels, Inwardly Rectifying/genetics
- Potassium Channels, Inwardly Rectifying/physiology
- Potassium, Dietary/administration & dosage
- Rats
- Rats, Inbred Dahl
- Rats, Transgenic
- Seizures/etiology
- Seizures/genetics
- Seizures/physiopathology
- Severity of Illness Index
- Kir5.1 Channel
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Oleg Palygin
- Department of Physiology
- Cardiovascular Center, and
| | | | | | - Peter S. LaViolette
- Department of Radiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | | | | | - Alexander Staruschenko
- Department of Physiology
- Cardiovascular Center, and
- Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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15
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Moreira TS, Sobrinho CR, Falquetto B, Oliveira LM, Lima JD, Mulkey DK, Takakura AC. The retrotrapezoid nucleus and the neuromodulation of breathing. J Neurophysiol 2020; 125:699-719. [PMID: 33427575 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00497.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Breathing is regulated by a host of arousal and sleep-wake state-dependent neuromodulators to maintain respiratory homeostasis. Modulators such as acetylcholine, norepinephrine, histamine, serotonin (5-HT), adenosine triphosphate (ATP), substance P, somatostatin, bombesin, orexin, and leptin can serve complementary or off-setting functions depending on the target cell type and signaling mechanisms engaged. Abnormalities in any of these modulatory mechanisms can destabilize breathing, suggesting that modulatory mechanisms are not overly redundant but rather work in concert to maintain stable respiratory output. The present review focuses on the modulation of a specific cluster of neurons located in the ventral medullary surface, named retrotrapezoid nucleus, that are activated by changes in tissue CO2/H+ and regulate several aspects of breathing, including inspiration and active expiration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago S Moreira
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cleyton R Sobrinho
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Barbara Falquetto
- Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz M Oliveira
- Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Janayna D Lima
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniel K Mulkey
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Ana C Takakura
- Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
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16
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Ou M, Kuo FS, Chen X, Kahanovitch U, Olsen ML, Du G, Mulkey DK. Isoflurane inhibits a Kir4.1/5.1-like conductance in neonatal rat brainstem astrocytes and recombinant Kir4.1/5.1 channels in a heterologous expression system. J Neurophysiol 2020; 124:740-749. [PMID: 32727273 PMCID: PMC7509298 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00358.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
All inhalation anesthetics used clinically including isoflurane can suppress breathing; since this unwanted side effect can persist during the postoperative period and complicate patient recovery, there is a need to better understand how isoflurane affects cellular and molecular elements of respiratory control. Considering that astrocytes in a brainstem region known as the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) contribute to the regulation of breathing in response to changes in CO2/H+ (i.e., function as respiratory chemoreceptors), and astrocytes in other brain regions are highly sensitive to isoflurane, we wanted to determine whether and how RTN astrocytes respond to isoflurane. We found that RTN astrocytes in slices from neonatal rat pups (7-12 days postnatal) respond to clinically relevant levels of isoflurane by inhibition of a CO2/H+-sensitive Kir4.1/5.1-like conductance [50% effective concentration (EC50) = 0.8 mM or ~1.7%]. We went on to confirm that similar levels of isoflurane (EC50 = 0.53 mM or 1.1%) inhibit recombinant Kir4.1/5.1 channels but not homomeric Kir4.1 channels expressed in HEK293 cells. We also found that exposure to CO2/H+ occluded subsequent effects of isoflurane on both native and recombinant Kir4.1/5.1 currents. These results identify Kir4.1/5.1 channels in astrocytes as novel targets of isoflurane. These results suggest astrocyte Kir4.1/5.1 channels contribute to certain aspects of general anesthesia including altered respiratory control.NEW & NOTEWORTHY An unwanted side effect of isoflurane anesthesia is suppression of breathing. Despite this clinical significance, effects of isoflurane on cellular and molecular elements of respiratory control are not well understood. Here, we show that isoflurane inhibits heteromeric Kir4.1/5.1 channels in a mammalian expression system and a Kir4.1/5.1-like conductance in astrocytes in a brainstem respiratory center. These results identify astrocyte Kir4.1/5.1 channels as novel targets of isoflurane and potential substrates for altered respiratory control during isoflurane anesthesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengchan Ou
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu City, China
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Fu-Shan Kuo
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Xinnian Chen
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | - Uri Kahanovitch
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Michelle L Olsen
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Guizhi Du
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu City, China
| | - Daniel K Mulkey
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
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