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Tang X, Chen H, Zhao M, Yang W, Shuang R, Xu S. α7nAChR-mediated astrocytic activation: A novel mechanism of Xiongzhi Dilong decoction in ameliorating chronic migraine. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 334:118509. [PMID: 38971346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Alpha 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR)-mediated astrocytic activation is closely related to central sensitization of chronic migraine (CM). Xiongzhi Dilong decoction (XZDL), originated from Xiongzhi Shigao decoction of Yi-zong-jin-jian, has been confirmed to relieve CM in experiment and clinic. However, its underlying mechanism for treating CM has not been elucidated. AIM OF THE STUDY To reveal the underlying mechanisms of XZDL to alleviate CM in vivo focusing mainly on α7nAChR-mediated astrocytic activation and central sensitization in TNC. MATERIALS AND METHODS CM rat model was established by subcutaneous injection of nitroglycerin (NTG) recurrently, and treated with XZDL simultaneously. Migraine-like behaviors of rats (ear redness, head scratching, and cage climbing) and pain-related reactions (mechanical hind-paw withdrawal threshold) of rats were evaluated before and after NTG injection and XZDL administration at different points in time for nine days. The immunofluorescence single and double staining were applied to detect the levels of CGRP, c-Fos, GFAP and α7nAChR in NTG-induced CM rats. ELISA kits were employed to quantify levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in medulla oblongata of CM rats. The expression levels of target proteins were examined using western blotting. Finally, methyllycaconitine citrate (MLA, a specific antagonist of α7nAChR) was applied to further validate the mechanisms of XZDL in vivo. RESULTS XZDL significantly attenuated the pain-related behaviors of the NTG-induced CM rats, manifesting as constraints of aberrant migraine-like behaviors including elongated latency of ear redness and decreased numbers of head scratching and cage climbing, and increment of mechanical withdrawal threshold. Moreover, XZDL markedly lowered levels of CGRP and c-Fos, as well as inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α) in CM rats. Furthermore, XZDL significantly enhanced α7nAChR expression and its co-localization with GFAP, while markedly inhibited the expression of GFAP and the activation of JAK2/STAT3/NF-κB pathway in the TNC of CM rats. Finally, blocking α7nAChR with MLA reversed the effects of XZDL on astrocytic activation, central sensitization, and the pain-related behaviors in vivo. CONCLUSION XZDL inhibited astrocytic activation and central sensitization in NTG-induced CM rats by facilitating α7nAChR expression and suppressing JAK2/STAT3/NF-κB pathway, implying that the regulation of α7nAChR-mediated astrocytic activation represents a novel mechanism of XZDL for relieving CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueqian Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China; Institute of Meterial Medica Integration and Transformation for Brain Disorders, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China
| | - Hao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China; Institute of Meterial Medica Integration and Transformation for Brain Disorders, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China
| | - Meihuan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China; Institute of Meterial Medica Integration and Transformation for Brain Disorders, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China
| | - Wenqin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China; Institute of Meterial Medica Integration and Transformation for Brain Disorders, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China
| | - Ruonan Shuang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China; Institute of Meterial Medica Integration and Transformation for Brain Disorders, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China
| | - Shijun Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China; Institute of Meterial Medica Integration and Transformation for Brain Disorders, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China.
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Tan X, Neslund EM, Fentis K, Ding ZM. Fluorocitrate inhibition of astrocytes reduces nicotine self-administration and alters extracellular levels of glutamate and dopamine within the nucleus accumbens in male wistar rats. Neuropharmacology 2024; 255:110001. [PMID: 38750804 PMCID: PMC11156530 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.110001] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests an important role of astrocytes in mediating behavioral and molecular effects of commonly misused drugs. Passive exposure to nicotine alters molecular, morphological, and functional properties of astrocytes. However, a potential involvement of astrocytes in nicotine reinforcement remains largely unexplored. The overall hypothesis tested in the current study is that astrocytes play a critical role in nicotine reinforcement. Protein levels of the astrocyte marker glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) were examined in key mesocorticolimbic regions following chronic nicotine intravenous self-administration. Fluorocitrate, a metabolic inhibitor of astrocytes, was tested for its effects on behaviors related to nicotine reinforcement and relapse. Effects of fluorocitrate on extracellular neurotransmitter levels, including glutamate, GABA, and dopamine, were determined with microdialysis. Chronic nicotine intravenous self-administration increased GFAP expression in the nucleus accumbens core (NACcr), but not other key mesocorticolimbic regions, compared to saline intravenous self-administration. Both intra-ventricular and intra-NACcr microinjection of fluorocitrate decreased nicotine self-administration. Intra-NACcr fluorocitrate microinjection also inhibited cue-induced reinstatement of nicotine seeking. Local perfusion of fluorocitrate decreased extracellular glutamate levels, elevated extracellular dopamine levels, but did not alter extracellular GABA levels in the NACcr. Fluorocitrate did not alter basal locomotor activity. These results indicate that nicotine reinforcement upregulates the astrocyte marker GFAP expression in the NACcr, metabolic inhibition of astrocytes attenuates nicotine reinforcement and relapse, and metabolic inhibition of astrocytes disrupts extracellular dopamine and glutamate transmission. Overall, these findings suggest that astrocytes play an important role in nicotine reinforcement and relapse, potentially through regulation of extracellular glutamate and dopamine neurotransmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Tan
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Neslund
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
| | - Khawla Fentis
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
| | - Zheng-Ming Ding
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
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3
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Abbondanza A, Urushadze A, Alves-Barboza AR, Janickova H. Expression and function of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in specific neuronal populations: Focus on striatal and prefrontal circuits. Pharmacol Res 2024; 204:107190. [PMID: 38704107 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107190] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are widely expressed in the central nervous system and play an important role in the control of neural functions including neuronal activity, transmitter release and synaptic plasticity. Although the common subtypes of nAChRs are abundantly expressed throughout the brain, their expression in different brain regions and by individual neuronal types is not homogeneous or incidental. In recent years, several studies have emerged showing that particular subtypes of nAChRs are expressed by specific neuronal populations in which they have major influence on the activity of local circuits and behavior. It has been demonstrated that even nAChRs expressed by relatively rare neuronal types can induce significant changes in behavior and contribute to pathological processes. Depending on the identity and connectivity of the particular nAChRs-expressing neuronal populations, the activation of nAChRs can have distinct or even opposing effects on local neuronal signaling. In this review, we will summarize the available literature describing the expression of individual nicotinic subunits by different neuronal types in two crucial brain regions, the striatum and the prefrontal cortex. The review will also briefly discuss nicotinic expression in non-neuronal, glial cells, as they cannot be ignored as potential targets of nAChRs-modulating drugs. The final section will discuss options that could allow us to target nAChRs in a neuronal-type-specific manner, not only in the experimental field, but also eventually in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Abbondanza
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 14200, Czech Republic
| | - Anna Urushadze
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 14200, Czech Republic
| | - Amanda Rosanna Alves-Barboza
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 14200, Czech Republic
| | - Helena Janickova
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague 14200, Czech Republic.
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4
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Lombardi AM, Wong H, Bower ME, Milstead R, Borski C, Schmitt E, Griffioen M, LaPlante L, Ehringer MA, Stitzel J, Hoeffer CA. AKT2 modulates astrocytic nicotine responses in vivo. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.31.596856. [PMID: 38854016 PMCID: PMC11160815 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.31.596856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
A better understanding of nicotine neurobiology is needed to reduce or prevent chronic addiction, ameliorate the detrimental effects of nicotine withdrawal, and increase successful cessation of use. Nicotine binds and activates two astrocyte-expressed nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), α4β2 and α7. We recently found that Protein kinase B-β (Pkb-β or Akt2) expression is restricted to astrocytes in mice and humans. To determine if AKT2 plays a role in astrocytic nicotinic responses, we generated astrocyte-specific Akt2 conditional knockout (cKO) and full Akt2 KO mice for in vivo and in vitro experiments. For in vivo studies, we examined mice exposed to chronic nicotine for two weeks in drinking water (200 μg/mL) and following acute nicotine challenge (0.09, 0.2 mg/kg) after 24 hrs. Our in vitro studies used cultured mouse astrocytes to measure nicotine-dependent astrocytic responses. We validated our approaches using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure inducing astrogliosis. Sholl analysis was used to measure glial fibrillary acidic protein responses in astrocytes. Our data show that wild-type (WT) mice exhibit increased astrocyte morphological complexity during acute nicotine exposure, with decreasing complexity during chronic nicotine use, whereas Akt2 cKO mice showed increased astrocyte morphology complexity. In culture, we found that 100μM nicotine was sufficient for morphological changes and blocking α7 or α4β2 nAChRs prevented observed morphologic changes. Finally, we performed conditioned place preference (CPP) in Akt2 cKO mice and found that astrocytic AKT2 deficiency reduced nicotine preference compared to controls. These findings show the importance of nAChRs and Akt2 signaling in the astrocytic response to nicotine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M. Lombardi
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303
| | - Helen Wong
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309
| | - Myra E. Bower
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309
| | - Ryan Milstead
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309
| | - Curtis Borski
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309
| | - Emily Schmitt
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303
| | - Mina Griffioen
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309
| | - Lauren LaPlante
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309
| | - Marissa A. Ehringer
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309
| | - Jerry Stitzel
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309
| | - Charles A. Hoeffer
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309
- Linda Crnic Institute, Anschutz Medical Center, Aurora, CO 80045
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5
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Holt LM, Nestler EJ. Astrocytic transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms of drug addiction. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:409-424. [PMID: 37940687 PMCID: PMC11066772 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02716-4] [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: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Addiction is a leading cause of disease burden worldwide and remains a challenge in current neuroscience research. Drug-induced lasting changes in gene expression are mediated by transcriptional and epigenetic regulation in the brain and are thought to underlie behavioral adaptations. Emerging evidence implicates astrocytes in regulating drug-seeking behaviors and demonstrates robust transcriptional response to several substances of abuse. This review focuses on the astrocytic transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms of drug action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne M Holt
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Eric J Nestler
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
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6
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Soares AR, Picciotto MR. Nicotinic regulation of microglia: potential contributions to addiction. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:425-435. [PMID: 37778006 PMCID: PMC11189589 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02703-9] [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: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Clinical and preclinical studies have identified immunosuppressive effects of nicotine, with potential implications for treating nicotine addiction. Here we review how nicotine can regulate microglia, the resident macrophages in the brain, and corresponding effects of nicotine on neuroimmune signaling. There is significant evidence that activation of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) on microglia can trigger an anti-inflammatory cascade that alters microglial polarization and activity, cytokine release, and intracellular calcium concentrations, leading to neuroprotection. These anti-inflammatory effects of nicotine-dependent α7 nAChR signaling are lost during withdrawal, suggesting that neuroimmune signaling is potentiated during abstinence, and thus, heightened microglial activity may drive circuit disruption that contributes to withdrawal symptoms and hyperkatifeia. In sum, the clinical literature has highlighted immunomodulatory effects of nicotine and the potential for anti-inflammatory compounds to treat addiction. The preclinical literature investigating the underlying mechanisms points to a role of microglial engagement in the circuit dysregulation and behavioral changes that occur during nicotine addiction and withdrawal, driven, at least in part, by activation of α7 nAChRs on microglia. Specifically targeting microglial signaling may help alleviate withdrawal symptoms in people with nicotine dependence and help to promote abstinence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexa R Soares
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, 34 Park Street-3rd floor Research, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA
| | - Marina R Picciotto
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, 34 Park Street-3rd floor Research, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA.
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06508, USA.
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7
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Cao H, Li B, Mu M, Li S, Chen H, Tao H, Wang W, Zou Y, Zhao Y, Liu Y, Tao X. Nicotine suppresses crystalline silica-induced astrocyte activation and neuronal death by inhibiting NF-κB in the mouse hippocampus. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14508. [PMID: 37864452 PMCID: PMC11017465 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Exposure to crystalline silica (CS) in occupational settings induces chronic inflammation in the respiratory system and, potentially, the brain. Some workers are frequently concurrently exposed to both CS and nicotine. Here, we explored the impact of nicotine on CS-induced neuroinflammation in the mouse hippocampus. METHODS In this study, we established double-exposed models of CS and nicotine in C57BL/6 mice. To assess depression-like behavior, experiments were conducted at 3, 6, and 9 weeks. Serum inflammatory factors were analyzed by ELISA. Hippocampus was collected for RNA sequencing analysis and examining the gene expression patterns linked to inflammation and cell death. Microglia and astrocyte activation and hippocampal neuronal death were assessed using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining. Western blotting was used to analyze the NF-κB expression level. RESULTS Mice exposed to CS for 3 weeks showed signs of depression. This was accompanied by elevated IL-6 in blood, destruction of the blood-brain barrier, and activation of astrocytes caused by an increased NF-κB expression in the CA1 area of the hippocampus. The elevated levels of astrocyte-derived Lcn2 and upregulated genes related to inflammation led to higher neuronal mortality. Moreover, nicotine mitigated the NF-κB expression, astrocyte activation, and neuronal death, thereby ameliorating the associated symptoms. CONCLUSION Silica exposure induces neuroinflammation and neuronal death in the mouse hippocampal CA1 region and depressive behavior. However, nicotine inhibits CS-induced neuroinflammation and neuronal apoptosis, alleviating depressive-like behaviors in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hangbing Cao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Control and Occupational Health of the Ministry of EducationAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Deep Reduction and Occupational Health and Safety of Anhui Higher Education InstitutesAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory of Occupational Health and SafetyAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- School of Medicine, Department of Medical Frontier Experimental CenterAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
| | - Bing Li
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Control and Occupational Health of the Ministry of EducationAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Deep Reduction and Occupational Health and Safety of Anhui Higher Education InstitutesAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory of Occupational Health and SafetyAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- School of Medicine, Department of Medical Frontier Experimental CenterAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
| | - Min Mu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Control and Occupational Health of the Ministry of EducationAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Deep Reduction and Occupational Health and Safety of Anhui Higher Education InstitutesAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory of Occupational Health and SafetyAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- School of Medicine, Department of Medical Frontier Experimental CenterAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
| | - Shanshan Li
- School of PharmacyBengbu Medical CollegeBengbuChina
| | - Haoming Chen
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Control and Occupational Health of the Ministry of EducationAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Deep Reduction and Occupational Health and Safety of Anhui Higher Education InstitutesAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory of Occupational Health and SafetyAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- School of Medicine, Department of Medical Frontier Experimental CenterAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
| | - Huihui Tao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Control and Occupational Health of the Ministry of EducationAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Deep Reduction and Occupational Health and Safety of Anhui Higher Education InstitutesAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory of Occupational Health and SafetyAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- School of Medicine, Department of Medical Frontier Experimental CenterAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
| | - Wenyang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Control and Occupational Health of the Ministry of EducationAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Deep Reduction and Occupational Health and Safety of Anhui Higher Education InstitutesAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory of Occupational Health and SafetyAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- School of Medicine, Department of Medical Frontier Experimental CenterAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
| | - Yuanjie Zou
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Control and Occupational Health of the Ministry of EducationAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Deep Reduction and Occupational Health and Safety of Anhui Higher Education InstitutesAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory of Occupational Health and SafetyAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- School of Medicine, Department of Medical Frontier Experimental CenterAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
| | - Yehong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Control and Occupational Health of the Ministry of EducationAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Deep Reduction and Occupational Health and Safety of Anhui Higher Education InstitutesAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory of Occupational Health and SafetyAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- School of Medicine, Department of Medical Frontier Experimental CenterAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
| | - Yang Liu
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory of Occupational Health and SafetyAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- School of Medicine, Department of Medical Frontier Experimental CenterAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
| | - Xinrong Tao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Control and Occupational Health of the Ministry of EducationAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Deep Reduction and Occupational Health and Safety of Anhui Higher Education InstitutesAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- Anhui Province Engineering Laboratory of Occupational Health and SafetyAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
- School of Medicine, Department of Medical Frontier Experimental CenterAnhui University of Science and TechnologyHuainanChina
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Soares ÉN, Costa ACDS, Ferrolho GDJ, Ureshino RP, Getachew B, Costa SL, da Silva VDA, Tizabi Y. Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in Glial Cells as Molecular Target for Parkinson's Disease. Cells 2024; 13:474. [PMID: 38534318 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by resting tremor, bradykinesia, rigidity, and postural instability that also includes non-motor symptoms such as mood dysregulation. Dopamine (DA) is the primary neurotransmitter involved in this disease, but cholinergic imbalance has also been implicated. Current intervention in PD is focused on replenishing central DA, which provides remarkable temporary symptomatic relief but does not address neuronal loss and the progression of the disease. It has been well established that neuronal nicotinic cholinergic receptors (nAChRs) can regulate DA release and that nicotine itself may have neuroprotective effects. Recent studies identified nAChRs in nonneuronal cell types, including glial cells, where they may regulate inflammatory responses. Given the crucial role of neuroinflammation in dopaminergic degeneration and the involvement of microglia and astrocytes in this response, glial nAChRs may provide a novel therapeutic target in the prevention and/or treatment of PD. In this review, following a brief discussion of PD, we focus on the role of glial cells and, specifically, their nAChRs in PD pathology and/or treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Érica Novaes Soares
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40110-902, BA, Brazil
| | - Ana Carla Dos Santos Costa
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40110-902, BA, Brazil
| | - Gabriel de Jesus Ferrolho
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40110-902, BA, Brazil
- Laboratory of Neurosciences, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40110-902, BA, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Portes Ureshino
- Department of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Diadema 09961-400, SP, Brazil
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Endocrinology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo 04039-032, SP, Brazil
| | - Bruk Getachew
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Howard University, 520 W Street NW, Washington, DC 20059, USA
| | - Silvia Lima Costa
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40110-902, BA, Brazil
| | - Victor Diogenes Amaral da Silva
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40110-902, BA, Brazil
- Laboratory of Neurosciences, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40110-902, BA, Brazil
| | - Yousef Tizabi
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Howard University, 520 W Street NW, Washington, DC 20059, USA
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9
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Rieder AS, Wyse ATS. Regulation of Inflammation by IRAK-M Pathway Can Be Associated with nAchRalpha7 Activation and COVID-19. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:581-592. [PMID: 37640915 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03567-6] [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: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
In spite of the vaccine development and its importance, the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is still impacting the world. It is known that the COVID-19 severity is related to the cytokine storm phenomenon, being inflammation a common disease feature. The nicotinic cholinergic system has been widely associated with COVID-19 since it plays a protective role in inflammation via nicotinic receptor alpha 7 (nAchRalpha7). In addition, SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (Spro) subunits can interact with nAchRalpha7. Moreover, Spro causes toll-like receptor (TLR) activation, leading to pro- and anti-inflammatory pathways. The increase and maturation of the IL-1 receptor-associated kinase (IRAK) family are mediated by activation of membrane receptors, such as TLRs. IRAK-M, a member of this family, is responsible for negatively regulating the activity of other active IRAKs. In addition, IRAK-M can regulate microglia phenotype by specific protein expression. Furthermore, there exists an antagonist influence of SARS-CoV-2 Spro and the cholinergic system action on the IRAK-M pathway and microglia phenotype. We discuss the overexpression and suppression of IRAK-M in inflammatory cell response to inflammation in SARS-CoV-2 infection when the cholinergic system is constantly activated via nAchRalpha7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessanda S Rieder
- Laboratory of Neuroprotection and Neurometabolic Diseases (Wyse's Lab), Department of Biochemistry, ICBS, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, Porto Alegre RS, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Angela T S Wyse
- Laboratory of Neuroprotection and Neurometabolic Diseases (Wyse's Lab), Department of Biochemistry, ICBS, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, Porto Alegre RS, 90035-003, Brazil.
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10
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Harder EV, Franklin JP, VanRyzin JW, Reissner KJ. Astrocyte-Neuron Interactions in Substance Use Disorders. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 39:165-191. [PMID: 39190075 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-64839-7_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Engagement of astrocytes within the brain's reward circuitry has been apparent for approximately 30 years, when noncontingent drug administration was observed to lead to cytological markers of reactive astrocytes. Since that time, advanced approaches in rodent behavior and astrocyte monitoring have revealed complex interactions between astrocytes with drug type, animal sex, brain region, and dose and duration of drug administration. A number of studies now collectively reveal that rodent drug self-administration followed by prolonged abstinence results in decreased features of structure and synaptic colocalization of astrocytes. In addition, stimulation of astrocytes in the nucleus accumbens with DREADD receptors or pharmacological compounds opposes drug-seeking behavior. These findings provide a clear path for ongoing investigation into astrocytes as mediators of drug action in the brain and underscore the potential therapeutic utility of astrocytes in the regulation of drug craving and relapse vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eden V Harder
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Neuroscience Center, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Janay P Franklin
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Neuroscience Center, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jonathan W VanRyzin
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Neuroscience Center, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kathryn J Reissner
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Neuroscience Center, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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11
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Ramírez-Cruz A, Gómez-González B, Baiza-Gutman LA, Manuel-Apolinar L, Ángeles-Mejía S, López-Cervantes SP, Ortega-Camarillo C, Cruz-López M, Gómez-Olivares JL, Díaz-Flores M. Nicotinamide, an acetylcholinesterase uncompetitive inhibitor, protects the blood‒brain barrier and improves cognitive function in rats fed a hypercaloric diet. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 959:176068. [PMID: 37775016 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress and inflammation induced by abundant consumption of high-energy foods and caloric overload are implicated in the dysfunction of the blood‒brain barrier (BBB), cognitive impairment, and overactivation of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). These enzymes hydrolyse acetylcholine, affecting anti-inflammatory cholinergic signalling. Our aim was to evaluate whether nicotinamide (NAM) attenuates the impairment of the BBB and cognitive function, improving cholinergic signalling. Forty male rats were distributed into five groups: one group was fed a standard diet, and the remaining groups were fed a high-fat diet and a beverage with 40% sucrose (HFS; high-fat sucrose). In three of the HFS groups, the carbohydrate was replaced by drinking water containing different concentrations of NAM for 5 h every morning for 12 weeks. The biochemical profile, levels of stress and inflammation markers, cholinesterase activities, BBB permeability, and cognitive capacity were evaluated. The results showed that the HFS diet disturbed the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids, causing insulin resistance. Simultaneously, AChE and BChE activities, levels of proinflammatory cytokines, oxidation of proteins and lipoperoxidation increased along with decreased antioxidant capacity in serum. In the hippocampus, increased activity of cholinesterases, protein carbonylation and lipoperoxidation were associated with decreased antioxidant capacity. Systemic and hippocampal changes were reflected in increased BBB permeability and cognitive impairment. In contrast, NAM attenuated the above changes by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation through decreasing cholinesterase activities, especially by uncompetitive inhibition. NAM may be a potential systemic and neuroprotective agent to mitigate cognitive damage due to hypercaloric diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ramírez-Cruz
- Posgrado en Biología Experimental, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Unidad Iztapalapa, Ciudad de México, Mexico; Unidad de Investigación Médica en Bioquímica, Hospital de Especialidades "Bernardo Sepúlveda Gutiérrez" Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano Del Seguro Social, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - B Gómez-González
- Departamento de Biología de La Reproducción, División de Ciencias Biológicas y de La Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Unidad Iztapalapa, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - L A Baiza-Gutman
- Laboratorio de Biología Del Desarrollo, Unidad de Morfología y Función, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Estado de México, Mexico.
| | - L Manuel-Apolinar
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Endocrinas, Hospital de Especialidades "Bernardo Sepúlveda Gutiérrez" Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano Del Seguro Social, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - S Ángeles-Mejía
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Bioquímica, Hospital de Especialidades "Bernardo Sepúlveda Gutiérrez" Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano Del Seguro Social, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - S P López-Cervantes
- Posgrado en Biología Experimental, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Unidad Iztapalapa, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - C Ortega-Camarillo
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Bioquímica, Hospital de Especialidades "Bernardo Sepúlveda Gutiérrez" Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano Del Seguro Social, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - M Cruz-López
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Bioquímica, Hospital de Especialidades "Bernardo Sepúlveda Gutiérrez" Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano Del Seguro Social, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - J L Gómez-Olivares
- Laboratorio de Biomembranas, División de Ciencias Biológicas y de La Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Unidad Iztapalapa, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - M Díaz-Flores
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Bioquímica, Hospital de Especialidades "Bernardo Sepúlveda Gutiérrez" Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano Del Seguro Social, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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12
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O'Neill J, Diaz MP, Alger JR, Pochon JB, Ghahremani D, Dean AC, Tyndale RF, Petersen N, Marohnic S, Karaiskaki A, London ED. Smoking, tobacco dependence, and neurometabolites in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:4756-4765. [PMID: 37749232 PMCID: PMC10914613 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02247-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Cigarette smoking has a major impact on global health and morbidity, and positron emission tomographic research has provided evidence for reduced inflammation in the human brain associated with cigarette smoking. Given the consequences of inflammatory dysfunction for health, the question of whether cigarette smoking affects neuroinflammation warrants further investigation. The goal of this project therefore was to validate and extend evidence of hypoinflammation related to smoking, and to examine the potential contribution of inflammation to clinical features of smoking. Using magnetic resonance spectroscopy, we measured levels of neurometabolites that are putative neuroinflammatory markers. N-acetyl compounds (N-acetylaspartate + N-acetylaspartylglutamate), glutamate, creatine, choline-compounds (phosphocholine + glycerophosphocholine), and myo-inositol, have all been linked to neuroinflammation, but they have not been examined as such with respect to smoking. We tested whether people who smoke cigarettes have brain levels of these metabolites consistent with decreased neuroinflammation, and whether clinical features of smoking are associated with levels of these metabolites. The dorsal anterior cingulate cortex was chosen as the region-of-interest because of previous evidence linking it to smoking and related states. Fifty-four adults who smoked daily maintained overnight smoking abstinence before testing and were compared with 37 nonsmoking participants. Among the smoking participants, we tested for associations of metabolite levels with tobacco dependence, smoking history, craving, and withdrawal. Levels of N-acetyl compounds and glutamate were higher, whereas levels of creatine and choline compounds were lower in the smoking group as compared with the nonsmoking group. In the smoking group, glutamate and creatine levels correlated negatively with tobacco dependence, and creatine correlated negatively with lifetime smoking, but none of the metabolite levels correlated with craving or withdrawal. The findings indicate a link between smoking and a hypoinflammatory state in the brain, specifically in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex. Smoking may thereby increase vulnerability to infection and brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph O'Neill
- Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Brain Research Institute, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Maylen Perez Diaz
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior and the Department of Psychiatry, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Biogen, Inc., Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jeffry R Alger
- Department of Neurology, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jean-Baptiste Pochon
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior and the Department of Psychiatry, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Dara Ghahremani
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior and the Department of Psychiatry, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Andrew C Dean
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior and the Department of Psychiatry, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Rachel F Tyndale
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, and Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, and Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction & Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nicole Petersen
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior and the Department of Psychiatry, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Shane Marohnic
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior and the Department of Psychiatry, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Andrea Karaiskaki
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior and the Department of Psychiatry, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Edythe D London
- Brain Research Institute, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior and the Department of Psychiatry, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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13
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Tian ZR, Sharma A, Muresanu DF, Sharma S, Feng L, Zhang Z, Li C, Buzoianu AD, Lafuente JV, Nozari A, Sjöqvisst PO, Wiklund L, Sharma HS. Nicotine neurotoxicity exacerbation following engineered Ag and Cu (50-60 nm) nanoparticles intoxication. Neuroprotection with nanowired delivery of antioxidant compound H-290/51 together with serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist ondansetron. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 172:189-233. [PMID: 37833012 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.07.002] [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] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Nicotine abuse is frequent worldwide leading to about 8 millions people die every year due to tobacco related diseases. Military personnel often use nicotine smoking that is about 12.8% higher than civilian populations. Nicotine smoking triggers oxidative stress and are linked to several neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Nicotine neurotoxicity induces significant depression and oxidative stress in the brain leading to neurovascular damages and brain pathology. Thus, details of nicotine neurotoxicity and factors influencing them require additional investigations. In this review, effects of engineered nanoparticles from metals Ag and Cu (50-60 nm) on nicotine neurotoxicity are discussed with regard to nicotine smoking. Military personnel often work in the environment where chances of nanoparticles exposure are quite common. In our earlier studies, we have shown that nanoparticles alone induces breakdown of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and exacerbates brain pathology in animal models. In present investigation, nicotine exposure in with Ag or Cu nanoparticles intoxicated group exacerbated BBB breakdown, induce oxidative stress and aggravate brain pathology. Treatment with nanowired H-290/51 a potent chain-breaking antioxidant together with nanowired ondansetron, a potent 5-HT3 receptor antagonist significantly reduced oxidative stress, BBB breakdown and brain pathology in nicotine exposure associated with Ag or Cu nanoparticles intoxication. The functional significance of this findings and possible mechanisms of nicotine neurotoxicity are discussed based on current literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Ryan Tian
- Dept. Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Aruna Sharma
- International Experimental Central Nervous System Injury & Repair (IECNSIR), Dept. of Surgical Sciences, Anesthesiology & Intensive Care Medicine, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Dafin F Muresanu
- Dept. Clinical Neurosciences, University of Medicine & Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; ''RoNeuro'' Institute for Neurological Research and Diagnostic, Mircea Eliade Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Suraj Sharma
- Blekinge Institute of Technology, BTH, Karlskrona, Sweden
| | - Lianyuan Feng
- Blekinge Institute of Technology, BTH, Karlskrona, Sweden
| | - Zhiqiang Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Zhongshan Road (West), Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, P.R. China
| | - Cong Li
- Department of Neurology, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Zhongshan Road (West), Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, P.R. China
| | - Anca D Buzoianu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Dade road No.111, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, P.R. China; Department of Neurosurgery, Chinese Medicine Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Dade road No.111, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - José Vicente Lafuente
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ala Nozari
- Department of Anesthesiology, Boston University, Albany str, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Per-Ove Sjöqvisst
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars Wiklund
- International Experimental Central Nervous System Injury & Repair (IECNSIR), Dept. of Surgical Sciences, Anesthesiology & Intensive Care Medicine, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hari Shanker Sharma
- International Experimental Central Nervous System Injury & Repair (IECNSIR), Dept. of Surgical Sciences, Anesthesiology & Intensive Care Medicine, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; LaNCE, Dept. Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain.
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14
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Abstract
Diseases associated with nicotine dependence in the form of habitual tobacco use are a major cause of premature death in the United States. The majority of tobacco smokers will relapse within the first month of attempted abstinence. Smoking cessation agents increase the likelihood that smokers can achieve long-term abstinence. Nevertheless, currently available smoking cessation agents have limited utility and fail to prevent relapse in the majority of smokers. Pharmacotherapy is therefore an effective strategy to aid smoking cessation efforts but considerable risk of relapse persists even when the most efficacious medications currently available are used. The past decade has seen major breakthroughs in our understanding of the molecular, cellular, and systems-level actions of nicotine in the brain that contribute to the development and maintenance of habitual tobacco use. In parallel, large-scale human genetics studies have revealed allelic variants that influence vulnerability to tobacco use disorder. These advances have revealed targets for the development of novel smoking cessation agents. Here, we summarize current efforts to develop smoking cessation therapeutics and highlight opportunities for future efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Lengel
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Paul J. Kenny
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Drug Discovery Institute (DDI), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
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15
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Lun J, Li Y, Gao X, Gong Z, Chen X, Zou J, Zhou C, Huang Y, Zhou B, Huang P, Cao H. Kynurenic acid blunts A1 astrocyte activation against neurodegeneration in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders. J Neuroinflammation 2023; 20:87. [PMID: 36997969 PMCID: PMC10061717 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-023-02771-4] [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: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite extensive astrocyte activation in patients suffering from HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND), little is known about the contribution of astrocytes to HAND neuropathology. Here, we report that the robust activation of neurotoxic astrocytes (A1 astrocytes) in the CNS promotes neuron damage and cognitive deficits in HIV-1 gp120 transgenic mice. Notably, knockout of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (α7nAChR) blunted A1 astrocyte responses, ultimately facilitating neuronal and cognitive improvement in the gp120tg mice. Furthermore, we provide evidence that Kynurenic acid (KYNA), a tryptophan metabolite with α7nAChR inhibitory properties, attenuates gp120-induced A1 astrocyte formation through the blockade of α7nAChR/JAK2/STAT3 signaling activation. Meanwhile, compared with gp120tg mice, mice fed with tryptophan showed dramatic improvement in cognitive performance, which was related to the inhibition of A1 astrocyte responses. These initial and determinant findings mark a turning point in our understanding of the role of α7nAChR in gp120-mediated A1 astrocyte activation, opening up new opportunities to control neurotoxic astrocyte generation through KYNA and tryptophan administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingxian Lun
- Department of Microbiology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515 Guangdong China
| | - Yubin Li
- Department of Microbiology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515 Guangdong China
| | - Xuefeng Gao
- Department of Microbiology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515 Guangdong China
| | - Zelong Gong
- Department of Microbiology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515 Guangdong China
| | - Xiaoliang Chen
- Department of Microbiology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515 Guangdong China
| | - Jinhu Zou
- Department of Microbiology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515 Guangdong China
| | - Chengxing Zhou
- Department of Microbiology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515 Guangdong China
| | - Yuanyuan Huang
- Department of Microbiology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515 Guangdong China
| | - Bingliang Zhou
- Department of Microbiology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515 Guangdong China
| | - Pengwei Huang
- Department of Microbiology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515 Guangdong China
| | - Hong Cao
- Department of Microbiology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515 Guangdong China
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16
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Fan L, Chen H, Liu Y, Hou H, Hu Q. ERK signaling is required for nicotine-induced conditional place preference by regulating neuroplasticity genes expression in male mice. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2023; 222:173510. [PMID: 36565790 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2022.173510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Nicotine is an addictive compound that interacts with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), inducing a release of dopamine in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). When neurons undergo repeated exposure to nicotine, several adaptive changes in neuroplasticity occur. Activation of nAChRs involves numerous intracellular signaling cascades that likely contribute to neuroplasticity and ultimately the establishment of nicotine addiction. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms underlying this adaptation remain unclear. To explore the effects of nicotine on neuroplasticity, a stable nicotine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) model was constructed by intravenous injection in mice. Using a PCR array, we observed significant changes in the expression of synaptic plasticity-related genes in the VTA (16 mRNAs) and NAc (40 mRNAs). When mice were pre-treated with PD98059, an extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) inhibitor, more gene expression changes in the VTA (53 mRNAs) and NAc (60 mRNAs) were found. Moreover, PD98059 pre-treatment blocked the increased p-ERK/ERK and p-CREB/CREB ratios and decreased the expression of synaptic plasticity-related proteins such as SAP102, PSD95, synaptophysin, and BDNF, these changes might contribute to preventing the establishment of nicotine-induced CPP. Furthermore, neurons from the VTA and NAc of nicotine CPP mice had an increased dendritic spine density and complexity of dendritic morphology by Golgi staining. PD98059 also blocked this dynamic. These results demonstrate that repeated exposure to nicotine may remold the expression of neuroplasticity-related genes by activating the ERK signaling pathway in the VTA and NAc, and is related to the establishment of nicotine-induced CPP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Fan
- Anhui Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, PR China; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, PR China; China National Tobacco Quality Supervision & Test Center, Zhengzhou, PR China; Key Laboratory of Tobacco Biological Effects, Zhengzhou, PR China; Beijing Institute of Life Science and Technology, Beijing, China; Key Labortory of Tobacco Biological Effects and Biosynthesis, Beijing, China
| | - Huan Chen
- China National Tobacco Quality Supervision & Test Center, Zhengzhou, PR China; Key Laboratory of Tobacco Biological Effects, Zhengzhou, PR China; Beijing Institute of Life Science and Technology, Beijing, China; Key Labortory of Tobacco Biological Effects and Biosynthesis, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Anhui Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, PR China; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, PR China.
| | - Hongwei Hou
- China National Tobacco Quality Supervision & Test Center, Zhengzhou, PR China; Key Laboratory of Tobacco Biological Effects, Zhengzhou, PR China; Beijing Institute of Life Science and Technology, Beijing, China; Key Labortory of Tobacco Biological Effects and Biosynthesis, Beijing, China.
| | - Qingyuan Hu
- China National Tobacco Quality Supervision & Test Center, Zhengzhou, PR China; Key Laboratory of Tobacco Biological Effects, Zhengzhou, PR China; Beijing Institute of Life Science and Technology, Beijing, China; Key Labortory of Tobacco Biological Effects and Biosynthesis, Beijing, China.
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17
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Goenaga J, Araque A, Kofuji P, Herrera Moro Chao D. Calcium signaling in astrocytes and gliotransmitter release. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2023; 15:1138577. [PMID: 36937570 PMCID: PMC10017551 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2023.1138577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glia are as numerous in the brain as neurons and widely known to serve supportive roles such as structural scaffolding, extracellular ionic and neurotransmitter homeostasis, and metabolic support. However, over the past two decades, several lines of evidence indicate that astrocytes, which are a type of glia, play active roles in neural information processing. Astrocytes, although not electrically active, can exhibit a form of excitability by dynamic changes in intracellular calcium levels. They sense synaptic activity and release neuroactive substances, named gliotransmitters, that modulate neuronal activity and synaptic transmission in several brain areas, thus impacting animal behavior. This "dialogue" between astrocytes and neurons is embodied in the concept of the tripartite synapse that includes astrocytes as integral elements of synaptic function. Here, we review the recent work and discuss how astrocytes via calcium-mediated excitability modulate synaptic information processing at various spatial and time scales.
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18
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Chen W, Meng S, Han Y, Shi J. Astrocytes: the neglected stars in the central nervous system and drug addiction. MEDICAL REVIEW (BERLIN, GERMANY) 2022; 2:417-426. [PMID: 37724324 PMCID: PMC10388769 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2022-0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
With the advent of improved tools to examine the astrocytes, which have been believed to play a supportive role in the central nervous system (CNS) for years, their participation in the operation of the CNS and drug addiction was unveiled. Assisting the formation and function of the CNS, astrocytes are involved in physiological and pathological brain activities. Drug addiction is a pervasive psychiatric disorder, characterized by compulsive drug-taking behavior and high rate of relapse, impacting individual health and society stability and safety. When exposed to drugs of abuse, astrocytes go through a series of alterations, contributing to the development of addiction. Here we review how astrocytes contribute to the CNS and drug addiction. We hope that understanding the interaction between addictive drugs and astrocytes may help discover new mechanisms underlying the addiction and produce novel therapeutic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Chen
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shiqiu Meng
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Han
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Shi
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
- The State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- The Key Laboratory for Neuroscience of the Ministry of Education and Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
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19
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Aryal SP, Xia M, Ortinski PI, Richards CI. Study of Calcium Signaling in Astrocytes with a Novel Endoplasmic Reticulum-Targeted GCaMP Sensor. Curr Protoc 2022; 2:e491. [PMID: 35938843 PMCID: PMC9373517 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.491] [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: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER), the major organelle for the storage of Ca2+ , maintains a concentration of Ca2+ much higher than in the cytosol or other subcellular organelles, such as the mitochondria. A variety of tools have been developed for measuring Ca2+ activity in neuronal and glial cells, but most of these sensors target either the plasma membrane (PM) or the cytosol. Though these sensors are important for measuring Ca2+ transients, they lack the capability to measure activity in the periphery of the ER or to measure low-amplitude events resulting from Ca2+ exchange between the ER and other organelles, such as the mitochondria. We recently developed an ER-targeted GCaMP6f anchored to the cytosolic side of the ER that can measure minute calcium exchange occurring in this region. In this article, we discuss detailed methods to characterize the ER-GCaMP6f sensor, utilize it for calcium imaging in cultured astrocytes, and assess its expression and calcium imaging in astrocytes in rodent brains. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Expression and characterization of ER-GCaMP6f Support Protocol 1: ER-GCaMP6f-expressing stable cell line generation Basic Protocol 2: In vitro calcium imaging with ER-GCaMP6f Support Protocol 2: Imaging of drug-induced calcium activity Alternate Protocol 1: Transduction of astrocytes with ER-GCaMP6f AAV Alternate Protocol 2: Calcium imaging of astrocytes with Fluo-4 AM Basic Protocol 3: In vivo ER-GCaMP6f expression and slice calcium imaging Support Protocol 3: Pharmacological studies with 2-APB in brain slices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surya P Aryal
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Mengfan Xia
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Pavel I Ortinski
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
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Aryal SP, Xia M, Adindu E, Davis C, Ortinski PI, Richards CI. ER-GCaMP6f: An Endoplasmic Reticulum-Targeted Genetic Probe to Measure Calcium Activity in Astrocytic Processes. Anal Chem 2022; 94:2099-2108. [PMID: 35061939 PMCID: PMC9047445 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c04321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Ca2+ is a major second messenger involved in cellular and subcellular signaling in a wide range of cells, including astrocytes, which use calcium ions to communicate with other cells in the brain. Even though a variety of genetically encoded Ca2+ indicators have been developed to study astrocyte calcium signaling, understanding the dynamics of endoplasmic reticulum calcium signaling is greatly limited by the currently available tools. To address this, we developed an endoplasmic reticulum-targeted calcium indicator, ER-GCaMP6f, which is anchored to the cytosolic side of the organelle and measures signaling that occurs in close proximity to the endoplasmic reticulum of astrocytes. Using a combination of confocal and super-resolution microscopy techniques, we demonstrate the localization of the indicator in the endoplasmic reticulum in both cell soma and processes of astrocytes. Combining ER-GCaMP6f with total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy, we show that Ca2+ fluctuations in small astrocytic processes can be detected, which are otherwise not observable with existing indicators and standard wide-field and confocal techniques. We also compared the ER-GCaMP6f indicator against currently used plasma membrane-tethered and cytosolic GCaMP6f indicators. ER-GCaMP6f identifies dynamics in calcium signaling of endoplasmic reticulum resident receptors that are missed by plasma membrane-anchored indicators. We also generated an adeno-associated virus (AAV5) and demonstrate that ER-GCaMP6f can be expressed in vivo and by measured calcium activity in brain slices. ER-GCaMP6f provides a powerful tool to study calcium signaling in close proximity to the endoplasmic reticulum in astrocyte cell soma and processes both in culture and in brain slices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surya P Aryal
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA
| | - Mengfan Xia
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Ebubechi Adindu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA
| | - Caroline Davis
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA
| | - Pavel I Ortinski
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
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Ahmadpour N, Kantroo M, Stobart JL. Extracellular Calcium Influx Pathways in Astrocyte Calcium Microdomain Physiology. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1467. [PMID: 34680100 PMCID: PMC8533159 DOI: 10.3390/biom11101467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are complex glial cells that play many essential roles in the brain, including the fine-tuning of synaptic activity and blood flow. These roles are linked to fluctuations in intracellular Ca2+ within astrocytes. Recent advances in imaging techniques have identified localized Ca2+ transients within the fine processes of the astrocytic structure, which we term microdomain Ca2+ events. These Ca2+ transients are very diverse and occur under different conditions, including in the presence or absence of surrounding circuit activity. This complexity suggests that different signalling mechanisms mediate microdomain events which may then encode specific astrocyte functions from the modulation of synapses up to brain circuits and behaviour. Several recent studies have shown that a subset of astrocyte microdomain Ca2+ events occur rapidly following local neuronal circuit activity. In this review, we consider the physiological relevance of microdomain astrocyte Ca2+ signalling within brain circuits and outline possible pathways of extracellular Ca2+ influx through ionotropic receptors and other Ca2+ ion channels, which may contribute to astrocyte microdomain events with potentially fast dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jillian L. Stobart
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, 750 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MG R3E 0T5, Canada; (N.A.); (M.K.)
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Aryal SP, Neupane KR, Masud AA, Richards CI. Characterization of Astrocyte Morphology and Function Using a Fast and Reliable Tissue Clearing Technique. Curr Protoc 2021; 1:e279. [PMID: 34694747 PMCID: PMC8550103 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.279] [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: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytic processes interact with synapses throughout the brain modulating neurotransmitter signaling and synaptic communication. During conditions such as exposure to drugs of abuse and neurological diseases, astrocytes respond by altering their morphological and functional properties. Reactive astrocyte phenotypes exhibit a bushy morphology with altered soma volume and an increased number of processes compared to resting astrocytes. The reactive astrocytic phenotype also overexpresses proteins one of which can be glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Fluorescence microscopy on thin tissue sections (<20 µm) requires reconstruction, often through multiple sections, to delineate the full astrocytic morphology. In contrast, tissue clearing methods have been developed that enable imaging of larger sections including the whole brain, providing an opportunity to see in-depth changes in single cell structure. In this article, a detailed protocol for studying astrocyte morphology using tissue clearing and subsequent imaging of whole brains as well as region-specific slices is provided. This method is ideal for understanding the effect of different physiological conditions on astrocyte morphology. A standard biochemistry laboratory has the resources to accomplish tissue clearing using this protocol and most universities have the required imaging facilities. Protocols to study brains from both genetically modified mice that contain an astrocyte-specific marker and from wild-type mice using antibody labeling steps after tissue clearing are provided. We also describe general protocols to conduct fluorescence imaging of astrocytes in cleared tissue to characterize their morphology. This protocol could be useful for researchers working in the rapidly growing field of astrocyte biology. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Brain perfusion, fixation, and tissue clearing Alternate Protocol: Clearing brain tissue with passive clarity Basic Protocol 2: Antibody labeling and refractive index matching Basic Protocol 3: Fluorescence imaging and characterization of astrocyte morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surya P Aryal
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Khaga R Neupane
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Abdullah A Masud
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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