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Bonzano S, Dallorto E, Bovetti S, Studer M, De Marchis S. Mitochondrial regulation of adult hippocampal neurogenesis: Insights into neurological function and neurodevelopmental disorders. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 199:106604. [PMID: 39002810 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106604] [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: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are essential regulators of cellular energy metabolism and play a crucial role in the maintenance and function of neuronal cells. Studies in the last decade have highlighted the importance of mitochondrial dynamics and bioenergetics in adult neurogenesis, a process that significantly influences cognitive function and brain plasticity. In this review, we examine the mechanisms by which mitochondria regulate adult neurogenesis, focusing on the impact of mitochondrial function on the behavior of neural stem/progenitor cells and the maturation and plasticity of newborn neurons in the adult mouse hippocampus. In addition, we explore the link between mitochondrial dysfunction, adult hippocampal neurogenesis and genes associated with cognitive deficits in neurodevelopmental disorders. In particular, we provide insights into how alterations in the transcriptional regulator NR2F1 affect mitochondrial dynamics and may contribute to the pathophysiology of the emerging neurodevelopmental disorder Bosch-Boonstra-Schaaf optic atrophy syndrome (BBSOAS). Understanding how genes involved in embryonic and adult neurogenesis affect mitochondrial function in neurological diseases might open new directions for therapeutic interventions aimed at boosting mitochondrial function during postnatal life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bonzano
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology (DBIOS), University of Turin, Via Accademia Albertina 13, Turin 10123, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole 10, Orbassano 10043, Italy
| | - Eleonora Dallorto
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology (DBIOS), University of Turin, Via Accademia Albertina 13, Turin 10123, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole 10, Orbassano 10043, Italy; Institute de Biologie Valrose (iBV), Université Cote d'Azur (UCA), CNRS 7277, Inserm 1091, Avenue Valrose 28, Nice 06108, France
| | - Serena Bovetti
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology (DBIOS), University of Turin, Via Accademia Albertina 13, Turin 10123, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole 10, Orbassano 10043, Italy
| | - Michèle Studer
- Institute de Biologie Valrose (iBV), Université Cote d'Azur (UCA), CNRS 7277, Inserm 1091, Avenue Valrose 28, Nice 06108, France
| | - Silvia De Marchis
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology (DBIOS), University of Turin, Via Accademia Albertina 13, Turin 10123, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole 10, Orbassano 10043, Italy.
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Lobato-Camacho FJ, López JC, Vargas JP. Enhancing spatial memory and pattern separation: Long-term effects of stimulant treatment in individuals with ADHD. Behav Brain Res 2024; 475:115211. [PMID: 39182623 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2024.115211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
This study explores the under-researched domain of long-term stimulant treatment in children and adolescents diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The necessity for extended treatment duration, often accompanied by safety concerns and side effects leading to treatment discontinuation, underscores the significance of this investigation. Concurrently, comparative studies have revealed adverse impacts on vulnerable regions within the hippocampal formation, accompanied by behavioral perturbations. We employed computerized tests and virtual reality to assess spatial memory, pattern separation, and object recognition memory in a cohort of children diagnosed with ADHD receiving stimulant treatment. We compared their performance to a group of neurotypical peers. Our findings indicate that the ADHD group exhibited a lower performance in spatial memory, pattern separation, and object recognition memory than ND group. Intriguingly, a positive relationship emerged between the duration of stimulant treatment and performance in these variables. Notably, this improvement was not immediate to MPH treatment but becomes significant after 24 months of treatment. In contrast to previous comparative investigations, our study did not reveal a detrimental impact on spatial navigation, object recognition memory, or pattern separation, despite the known interplay of these cognitive processes with the hippocampal formation. These results shed new light on the nuanced effects of stimulant treatment in ADHD, underscoring the need for a more comprehensive understanding of long-term treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco José Lobato-Camacho
- Departamento de psicología experimental, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Sevilla, Calle Camilo José Cela, S/N, Sevilla 41018, Spain.
| | - Juan Carlos López
- Departamento de psicología experimental, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Sevilla, Calle Camilo José Cela, S/N, Sevilla 41018, Spain
| | - Juan Pedro Vargas
- Departamento de psicología experimental, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Sevilla, Calle Camilo José Cela, S/N, Sevilla 41018, Spain
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Lobato-Camacho FJ, Vargas JP, López JC. Effects of the Regular Use of Virtual Environments on Spatial Navigation and Memory. Games Health J 2024. [PMID: 39093833 DOI: 10.1089/g4h.2023.0210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The cognitive effects of video games have garnered increasing attention due to their potential applications in cognitive rehabilitation and evaluation. However, the underlying mechanisms driving these cognitive modifications remain poorly understood. Objectives: This study investigates the fundamental mnemonic processes of spatial navigation, pattern separation, and recognition memory, closely associated with the hippocampus. Our objective is to elucidate the interaction of these cognitive processes and shed light on rehabilitation mechanisms that could inform the design of video games aimed at stimulating the hippocampus. Method: In this study, we assessed 48 young adults, including both video game players and non-players. We utilized virtual reality and cognitive tasks such as the Lobato Virtual Water Maze and the Mnemonic Similarity Task to evaluate their cognitive abilities. Results: Our key findings highlight that gamers exhibit heightened pattern separation abilities and demonstrate quicker and more accurate spatial learning, attributed to the cognitive stimulation induced by video games. Additionally, we uncovered a significant relationship between spatial memory, guided by environmental cues, and pattern separation, which serves as the foundation for more efficient spatial navigation. Conclusions: These results provide valuable insights into the cognitive impact of video games and offer potential for monitoring changes in rehabilitation processes and early signs of cognitive decline through virtual reality-based assessments. Ultimately, we propose that examining the relationships between cognitive processes represents an effective method for evaluating neurodegenerative conditions, offering new possibilities for early diagnosis and intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juan Pedro Vargas
- Departamento de Psicología Experimental, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos López
- Departamento de Psicología Experimental, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
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Khalil MH. Environmental enrichment: a systematic review on the effect of a changing spatial complexity on hippocampal neurogenesis and plasticity in rodents, with considerations for translation to urban and built environments for humans. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1368411. [PMID: 38919908 PMCID: PMC11196820 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1368411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hippocampal neurogenesis is critical for improving learning, memory, and spatial navigation. Inhabiting and navigating spatial complexity is key to stimulating adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) in rodents because they share similar hippocampal neuroplasticity characteristics with humans. AHN in humans has recently been found to persist until the tenth decade of life, but it declines with aging and is influenced by environmental enrichment. This systematic review investigated the impact of spatial complexity on neurogenesis and hippocampal plasticity in rodents, and discussed the translatability of these findings to human interventions. Methods Comprehensive searches were conducted on three databases in English: PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. All literature published until December 2023 was screened and assessed for eligibility. A total of 32 studies with original data were included, and the process is reported in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement and checklist. Results The studies evaluated various models of spatial complexity in rodents, including environmental enrichment, changes to in-cage elements, complex layouts, and navigational mazes featuring novelty and intermittent complexity. A regression equation was formulated to synthesize key factors influencing neurogenesis, such as duration, physical activity, frequency of changes, diversity of complexity, age, living space size, and temperature. Conclusion Findings underscore the cognitive benefits of spatial complexity interventions and inform future translational research from rodents to humans. Home-cage enrichment and models like the Hamlet complex maze and the Marlau cage offer insight into how architectural design and urban navigational complexity can impact neurogenesis in humans. In-space changing complexity, with and without physical activity, is effective for stimulating neurogenesis. While evidence on intermittent spatial complexity in humans is limited, data from the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns provide preliminary evidence. Existing equations relating rodent and human ages may allow for the translation of enrichment protocol durations from rodents to humans.
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Maltsev DI, Aniol VA, Golden MA, Petrina AD, Belousov VV, Gulyaeva NV, Podgorny OV. Aging Modulates the Ability of Quiescent Radial Glia-Like Stem Cells in the Hippocampal Dentate Gyrus to be Recruited into Division by Pro-neurogenic Stimuli. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:3461-3476. [PMID: 37995077 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03746-5] [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: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
A delicate balance between quiescence and division of the radial glia-like stem cells (RGLs) ensures continuation of adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) over the lifespan. Transient or persistent perturbations of this balance due to a brain pathology, drug administration, or therapy can lead to unfavorable long-term outcomes such as premature depletion of the RGLs, decreased AHN, and cognitive deficit. Memantine, a drug used for alleviating the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, and electroconvulsive seizure (ECS), a procedure used for treating drug-resistant major depression or bipolar disorder, are known strong AHN inducers; they were earlier demonstrated to increase numbers of dividing RGLs. Here, we demonstrated that 1-month stimulation of quiescent RGLs by either memantine or ECS leads to premature exhaustion of their pool and altered AHN at later stages of life and that aging of the brain modulates the ability of the quiescent RGLs to be recruited into the cell cycle by these AHN inducers. Our findings support the aging-related divergence of functional features of quiescent RGLs and have a number of implications for the practical assessment of drugs and treatments with respect to their action on quiescent RGLs at different stages of life in animal preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry I Maltsev
- Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, 117997, Russia
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997, Russia
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Victor A Aniol
- Laboratory of Functional Biochemistry of Nervous System, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117485, Russia
| | | | | | - Vsevolod V Belousov
- Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, 117997, Russia
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997, Russia
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, 117997, Russia
- Life Improvement By Future Technologies (LIFT) Center, Skolkovo, Moscow, 143025, Russia
| | - Natalia V Gulyaeva
- Laboratory of Functional Biochemistry of Nervous System, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117485, Russia
- Research and Clinical Center for Neuropsychiatry of Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, 115419, Russia
| | - Oleg V Podgorny
- Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, 117997, Russia.
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997, Russia.
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, 117997, Russia.
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119334, Russia.
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Ventura S, Duncan S, Ainge JA. Increased flexibility of CA3 memory representations following environmental enrichment. Curr Biol 2024; 34:2011-2019.e7. [PMID: 38636511 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.03.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Environmental enrichment (EE) improves memory, particularly the ability to discriminate similar past experiences.1,2,3,4,5,6 The hippocampus supports this ability via pattern separation, the encoding of similar events using dissimilar memory representations.7 This is carried out in the dentate gyrus (DG) and CA3 subfields.8,9,10,11,12 Upregulation of adult neurogenesis in the DG improves memory through enhanced pattern separation.1,2,3,4,5,6,11,13,14,15,16 Adult-born granule cells (abGCs) in DG are suggested to contribute to pattern separation by driving inhibition in regions such as CA3,13,14,15,16,17,18 leading to sparser, nonoverlapping representations of similar events (although a role for abGCs in driving excitation in the hippocampus has also been reported16). Place cells in the hippocampus contribute to pattern separation by remapping to spatial and contextual alterations to the environment.19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27 How spatial responses in CA3 are affected by EE and input from increased numbers of abGCs in DG is, however, unknown. Here, we investigate the neural mechanisms facilitating improved memory following EE using associative recognition memory tasks that model the automatic and integrative nature of episodic memory. We find that EE-dependent improvements in difficult discriminations are related to increased neurogenesis and sparser memory representations across the hippocampus. Additionally, we report for the first time that EE changes how CA3 place cells discriminate similar contexts. CA3 place cells of enriched rats show greater spatial tuning, increased firing rates, and enhanced remapping to contextual changes. These findings point to more precise and flexible CA3 memory representations in enriched rats, which provides a putative mechanism for EE-dependent improvements in fine memory discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Ventura
- School of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of St. Andrews, St. Mary's Quad, South Street, St. Andrews, Fife, Scotland KY16 9JP, UK
| | - Stephen Duncan
- School of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of St. Andrews, St. Mary's Quad, South Street, St. Andrews, Fife, Scotland KY16 9JP, UK; School of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Indiana University, 1101 E 10th Street, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - James A Ainge
- School of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of St. Andrews, St. Mary's Quad, South Street, St. Andrews, Fife, Scotland KY16 9JP, UK.
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Yilmaz E, Acar G, Onal U, Erdogan E, Baltaci AK, Mogulkoc R. Effect of 2-Week Naringin Supplementation on Neurogenesis and BDNF Levels in Ischemia-Reperfusion Model of Rats. Neuromolecular Med 2024; 26:4. [PMID: 38457013 PMCID: PMC10924031 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-023-08771-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ischemic stroke is the leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide with more than half of survivors living with serious neurological sequelae; thus, it has recently attracted a lot of attention in the field of medical study. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to determine the effect of naringin supplementation on neurogenesis and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in the brain in experimental brain ischemia-reperfusion. STUDY DESIGN The research was carried out on 40 male Wistar-type rats (10-12 weeks old) obtained from the Experimental Animals Research and Application Center of Selçuk University. Experimental groups were as follows: (1) Control group, (2) Sham group, (3) Brain ischemia-reperfusion group, (4) Brain ischemia-reperfusion + vehicle group (administered for 14 days), and (5) Brain ischemia-reperfusion + Naringin group (100 mg/kg/day administered for 14 days). METHODS In the ischemia-reperfusion groups, global ischemia was performed in the brain by ligation of the right and left carotid arteries for 30 min. Naringin was administered to experimental animals by intragastric route for 14 days following reperfusion. The training phase of the rotarod test was started 4 days before ischemia-reperfusion, and the test phase together with neurological scoring was performed the day before and 1, 7, and 14 days after the operation. At the end of the experiment, animals were sacrificed, and then hippocampus and frontal cortex tissues were taken from the brain. Double cortin marker (DCX), neuronal nuclear antigen marker (NeuN), and BDNF were evaluated in hippocampus and frontal cortex tissues by Real-Time qPCR analysis and immunohistochemistry methods. RESULTS While ischemia-reperfusion increased the neurological score values, DCX, NeuN, and BDNF levels decreased significantly after ischemia in the hippocampus and frontal cortex tissues. However, naringin supplementation restored the deterioration to a certain extent. CONCLUSION The results of the study show that 2 weeks of naringin supplementation may have protective effects on impaired neurogenesis and BDNF levels after brain ischemia and reperfusion in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esen Yilmaz
- Department of Medical Physiology, Selcuk University, 42250, Konya, Turkey
| | - Gozde Acar
- Department of Medical Physiology, Selcuk University, 42250, Konya, Turkey
| | - Ummugulsum Onal
- Department of Histology, Selcuk University, 42250, Konya, Turkey
| | - Ender Erdogan
- Department of Histology, Selcuk University, 42250, Konya, Turkey
| | | | - Rasim Mogulkoc
- Department of Medical Physiology, Selcuk University, 42250, Konya, Turkey.
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Chang WL, Hen R. Adult Neurogenesis, Context Encoding, and Pattern Separation: A Pathway for Treating Overgeneralization. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 38:163-193. [PMID: 39008016 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-62983-9_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
In mammals, the subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus is one of two brain regions (with the subventricular zone of the olfactory bulb) that continues to generate new neurons throughout adulthood, a phenomenon known as adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) (Eriksson et al., Nat Med 4:1313-1317, 1998; García-Verdugo et al., J Neurobiol 36:234-248, 1998). The integration of these new neurons into the dentate gyrus (DG) has implications for memory encoding, with unique firing and wiring properties of immature neurons that affect how the hippocampal network encodes and stores attributes of memory. In this chapter, we will describe the process of AHN and properties of adult-born cells as they integrate into the hippocampal circuit and mature. Then, we will discuss some methodological considerations before we review evidence for the role of AHN in two major processes supporting memory that are performed by the DG. First, we will discuss encoding of contextual information for episodic memories and how this is facilitated by AHN. Second, will discuss pattern separation, a major role of the DG that reduces interference for the formation of new memories. Finally, we will review clinical and translational considerations, suggesting that stimulation of AHN may help decrease overgeneralization-a common endophenotype of mood, anxiety, trauma-related, and age-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Li Chang
- Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Systems Neuroscience, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rene Hen
- Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
- Division of Systems Neuroscience, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA.
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Marzola P, Melzer T, Pavesi E, Gil-Mohapel J, Brocardo PS. Exploring the Role of Neuroplasticity in Development, Aging, and Neurodegeneration. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1610. [PMID: 38137058 PMCID: PMC10741468 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13121610] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroplasticity refers to the ability of the brain to reorganize and modify its neural connections in response to environmental stimuli, experience, learning, injury, and disease processes. It encompasses a range of mechanisms, including changes in synaptic strength and connectivity, the formation of new synapses, alterations in the structure and function of neurons, and the generation of new neurons. Neuroplasticity plays a crucial role in developing and maintaining brain function, including learning and memory, as well as in recovery from brain injury and adaptation to environmental changes. In this review, we explore the vast potential of neuroplasticity in various aspects of brain function across the lifespan and in the context of disease. Changes in the aging brain and the significance of neuroplasticity in maintaining cognitive function later in life will also be reviewed. Finally, we will discuss common mechanisms associated with age-related neurodegenerative processes (including protein aggregation and accumulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation) and how these processes can be mitigated, at least partially, by non-invasive and non-pharmacologic lifestyle interventions aimed at promoting and harnessing neuroplasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Marzola
- Department of Morphological Sciences and Graduate Neuroscience Program, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis 88040-900, SC, Brazil; (P.M.); (T.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Thayza Melzer
- Department of Morphological Sciences and Graduate Neuroscience Program, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis 88040-900, SC, Brazil; (P.M.); (T.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Eloisa Pavesi
- Department of Morphological Sciences and Graduate Neuroscience Program, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis 88040-900, SC, Brazil; (P.M.); (T.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Joana Gil-Mohapel
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
- Island Medical Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Patricia S. Brocardo
- Department of Morphological Sciences and Graduate Neuroscience Program, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis 88040-900, SC, Brazil; (P.M.); (T.M.); (E.P.)
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Mansk LMZ, Jaimes LF, Dias TL, Pereira GS. Social recognition memory differences between mouse strains: On the effects of social isolation, adult neurogenesis, and environmental enrichment. Brain Res 2023; 1819:148535. [PMID: 37595660 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Remembering conspecifics is paramount for the establishment and maintenance of groups. Here we asked whether the variability in social behavior caused by different breeding strategies affects social recognition memory (SRM). We tested the hypothesis that the inbred Swiss and the outbred C57BL/6 mice behave differently on SRM. Social memory in C57BL/6 mice endured at least 14 days, while in Swiss mice lasted 24 h but not ten days. We showed previously that an enriched environment enhanced the persistence of SRM in Swiss mice. Here we reproduced this result and added that it also increases the survival of adult-born neurons in the hippocampus. Next, we tested whether prolonged SRM observed in C57BL/6 mice could be changed by diminishing the trial duration or using an interference stimulus after learning. Neither short acquisition time nor interference during consolidation affected it. However, social isolation impaired SRM in C57BL/6 mice, similar to what was previously observed in Swiss mice. Our results demonstrate that SRM expression can vary according to the mouse strain, which shows the importance of considering this variable when choosing the most suitable model to answer specific questions about this memory system. We also demonstrate the suitability of both C57BL/6 and Swiss strains for exploring the impact of environmental conditions and adult neurogenesis on social memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara M Z Mansk
- Núcleo de Neurociências, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Laura F Jaimes
- Núcleo de Neurociências, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Thomaz L Dias
- Núcleo de Neurociências, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Grace S Pereira
- Núcleo de Neurociências, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
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Power SD, Stewart E, Zielke LG, Byrne EP, Douglas A, Ortega-de San Luis C, Lynch L, Ryan TJ. Immune activation state modulates infant engram expression across development. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadg9921. [PMID: 37939176 PMCID: PMC10631722 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adg9921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Infantile amnesia is possibly the most ubiquitous form of memory loss in mammals. We investigated how memories are stored in the brain throughout development by integrating engram labeling technology with mouse models of infantile amnesia. Here, we found a phenomenon in which male offspring in maternal immune activation models of autism spectrum disorder do not experience infantile amnesia. Maternal immune activation altered engram ensemble size and dendritic spine plasticity. We rescued the same apparently forgotten infantile memories in neurotypical mice by optogenetically reactivating dentate gyrus engram cells labeled during complex experiences in infancy. Furthermore, we permanently reinstated lost infantile memories by artificially updating the memory engram, demonstrating that infantile amnesia is a reversible process. Our findings suggest not only that infantile amnesia is due to a reversible retrieval deficit in engram expression but also that immune activation during development modulates innate, and reversible, forgetting switches that determine whether infantile amnesia will occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah D. Power
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity College Institute for Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Center for Lifespan Psychology, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany
| | - Erika Stewart
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity College Institute for Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Louisa G. Zielke
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity College Institute for Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Eric P. Byrne
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aaron Douglas
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity College Institute for Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Clara Ortega-de San Luis
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity College Institute for Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lydia Lynch
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tomás J. Ryan
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity College Institute for Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne Brain Centre, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Child & Brain Development Program, Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR), Toronto, ON, Canada
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Emery BA, Hu X, Khanzada S, Kempermann G, Amin H. High-resolution CMOS-based biosensor for assessing hippocampal circuit dynamics in experience-dependent plasticity. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 237:115471. [PMID: 37379793 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115471] [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: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Experiential richness creates tissue-level changes and synaptic plasticity as patterns emerge from rhythmic spatiotemporal activity of large interconnected neuronal assemblies. Despite numerous experimental and computational approaches at different scales, the precise impact of experience on network-wide computational dynamics remains inaccessible due to the lack of applicable large-scale recording methodology. We here demonstrate a large-scale multi-site biohybrid brain circuity on-CMOS-based biosensor with an unprecedented spatiotemporal resolution of 4096 microelectrodes, which allows simultaneous electrophysiological assessment across the entire hippocampal-cortical subnetworks from mice living in an enriched environment (ENR) and standard-housed (SD) conditions. Our platform, empowered with various computational analyses, reveals environmental enrichment's impacts on local and global spatiotemporal neural dynamics, firing synchrony, topological network complexity, and large-scale connectome. Our results delineate the distinct role of prior experience in enhancing multiplexed dimensional coding formed by neuronal ensembles and error tolerance and resilience to random failures compared to standard conditions. The scope and depth of these effects highlight the critical role of high-density, large-scale biosensors to provide a new understanding of the computational dynamics and information processing in multimodal physiological and experience-dependent plasticity conditions and their role in higher brain functions. Knowledge of these large-scale dynamics can inspire the development of biologically plausible computational models and computational artificial intelligence networks and expand the reach of neuromorphic brain-inspired computing into new applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett Addison Emery
- Research Group "Biohybrid Neuroelectronics", German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tatzberg 41, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Xin Hu
- Research Group "Biohybrid Neuroelectronics", German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tatzberg 41, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Shahrukh Khanzada
- Research Group "Biohybrid Neuroelectronics", German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tatzberg 41, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Gerd Kempermann
- Research Group "Adult Neurogenesis", German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tatzberg 41, 01307, Dresden, Germany; Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden (CRTD), Fetscherstraße 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Hayder Amin
- Research Group "Biohybrid Neuroelectronics", German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tatzberg 41, 01307, Dresden, Germany; TU Dresden, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Bergstraße 53, 01069, Dresden, Germany.
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13
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Farmer AL, Lewis MH. Reduction of restricted repetitive behavior by environmental enrichment: Potential neurobiological mechanisms. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 152:105291. [PMID: 37353046 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Restricted repetitive behaviors (RRB) are one of two diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder and common in other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. The term restricted repetitive behavior refers to a wide variety of inflexible patterns of behavior including stereotypy, self-injury, restricted interests, insistence on sameness, and ritualistic and compulsive behavior. However, despite their prevalence in clinical populations, their underlying causes remain poorly understood hampering the development of effective treatments. Intriguingly, numerous animal studies have demonstrated that these behaviors are reduced by rearing in enriched environments (EE). Understanding the processes responsible for the attenuation of repetitive behaviors by EE should offer insights into potential therapeutic approaches, as well as shed light on the underlying neurobiology of repetitive behaviors. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the relationship between EE and RRB and discusses potential mechanisms for EE's attenuation of RRB based on the broader EE literature. Existing gaps in the literature and future directions are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna L Farmer
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Mark H Lewis
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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14
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Brown CJ, Jeon S, Ng YT, Lee S, Fingerman KL, Charles ST. Switching it up: Activity diversity and cognitive functioning in later life. Psychol Aging 2023; 38:483-493. [PMID: 37535516 PMCID: PMC10528947 DOI: 10.1037/pag0000770] [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: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Participating in a broad and balanced range of daily activities (i.e., activity diversity) has been associated with better cognitive functioning in later life. One possible explanation for this finding is that high levels of activity diversity are merely a proxy for being more physically active, a factor robustly linked to cognitive health. The present study examined whether activity diversity has a unique association with cognitive functioning beyond physical movement. Community-dwelling older adults (N = 252, Mage = 73.55 years, SD = 6.39) completed a cognitive battery and then responded to ecological momentary assessments of their participation in 10 common activity types (e.g., reading, chores, social visits) every 3 hr for 5-6 days. They also wore accelerometers to track daily physical movement. Multiple regression models revealed that greater diversity in daily activities was related to higher cognitive functioning even after adjusting for physical movement and other covariates such as education level. This study further clarifies the unique relationship of activity diversity, beyond physical movement, with cognition. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Colette J Brown
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine
| | - Sangha Jeon
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine
| | - Yee To Ng
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan
| | - Soomi Lee
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Pennsylvania State University
| | - Karen L Fingerman
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Texas at Austin
| | - Susan T Charles
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine
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15
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Amelchenko EM, Bezriadnov DV, Chekhov OA, Ivanova AA, Kedrov AV, Anokhin KV, Lazutkin AA, Enikolopov G. Cognitive Flexibility Is Selectively Impaired by Radiation and Is Associated with Differential Recruitment of Adult-Born Neurons. J Neurosci 2023; 43:6061-6083. [PMID: 37532464 PMCID: PMC10451007 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0161-22.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to elevated doses of ionizing radiation, such as those in therapeutic procedures, catastrophic accidents, or space exploration, increases the risk of cognitive dysfunction. The full range of radiation-induced cognitive deficits is unknown, partly because commonly used tests may be insufficiently sensitive or may not be adequately tuned for assessing the fine behavioral features affected by radiation. Here, we asked whether γ-radiation might affect learning, memory, and the overall ability to adapt behavior to cope with a challenging environment (cognitive/behavioral flexibility). We developed a new behavioral assay, the context discrimination Morris water maze (cdMWM) task, which is hippocampus-dependent and requires the integration of various contextual cues and the adjustment of search strategies. We exposed male mice to 1 or 5 Gy of γ rays and, at different time points after irradiation, trained them consecutively in spatial MWM, reversal MWM, and cdMWM tasks, and assessed their learning, navigational search strategies, and memory. Mice exposed to 5 Gy performed successfully in the spatial and reversal MWM tasks; however, in the cdMWM task 6 or 8 weeks (but not 3 weeks) after irradiation, they demonstrated transient learning deficit, decreased use of efficient spatially precise search strategies during learning, and, 6 weeks after irradiation, memory deficit. We also observed impaired neurogenesis after irradiation and selective activation of 12-week-old newborn neurons by specific components of cdMWM training paradigm. Thus, our new behavioral paradigm reveals the effects of γ-radiation on cognitive flexibility and indicates an extended timeframe for the functional maturation of new hippocampal neurons.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Exposure to radiation can affect cognitive performance and cognitive flexibility - the ability to adapt to changed circumstances and demands. The full range of consequences of irradiation on cognitive flexibility is unknown, partly because of a lack of suitable models. Here, we developed a new behavioral task requiring mice to combine various types of cues and strategies to find a correct solution. We show that animals exposed to γ-radiation, despite being able to successfully solve standard problems, show delayed learning, deficient memory, and diminished use of efficient navigation patterns in circumstances requiring adjustments of previously used search strategies. This new task could be applied in other settings for assessing the cognitive changes induced by aging, trauma, or disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgeny M Amelchenko
- Center for Developmental Genetics
- Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York 11794
| | - Dmitri V Bezriadnov
- P.K. Anokhin Research Institute of Normal Physiology, Moscow, 125315, Russian Federation
| | - Olga A Chekhov
- Center for Developmental Genetics
- Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York 11794
| | - Anna A Ivanova
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology RAS, Moscow, 117485, Russian Federation
- Institute for Advanced Brain Studies, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119234, Russian Federation
| | - Alexander V Kedrov
- P.K. Anokhin Research Institute of Normal Physiology, Moscow, 125315, Russian Federation
| | - Konstantin V Anokhin
- P.K. Anokhin Research Institute of Normal Physiology, Moscow, 125315, Russian Federation
- Institute for Advanced Brain Studies, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119234, Russian Federation
| | - Alexander A Lazutkin
- Center for Developmental Genetics
- Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York 11794
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology RAS, Moscow, 117485, Russian Federation
| | - Grigori Enikolopov
- Center for Developmental Genetics
- Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York 11794
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16
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Šlosar L, Peskar M, Pišot R, Marusic U. Environmental enrichment through virtual reality as multisensory stimulation to mitigate the negative effects of prolonged bed rest. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1169683. [PMID: 37674784 PMCID: PMC10477372 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1169683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Prolonged bed rest causes a multitude of deleterious physiological changes in the human body that require interventions even during immobilization to prevent or minimize these negative effects. In addition to other interventions such as physical and nutritional therapy, non-physical interventions such as cognitive training, motor imagery, and action observation have demonstrated efficacy in mitigating or improving not only cognitive but also motor outcomes in bedridden patients. Recent technological advances have opened new opportunities to implement such non-physical interventions in semi- or fully-immersive environments to enable the development of bed rest countermeasures. Extended Reality (XR), which covers augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), and virtual reality (VR), can enhance the training process by further engaging the kinesthetic, visual, and auditory senses. XR-based enriched environments offer a promising research avenue to investigate the effects of multisensory stimulation on motor rehabilitation and to counteract dysfunctional brain mechanisms that occur during prolonged bed rest. This review discussed the use of enriched environment applications in bedridden patients as a promising tool to improve patient rehabilitation outcomes and suggested their integration into existing treatment protocols to improve patient care. Finally, the neurobiological mechanisms associated with the positive cognitive and motor effects of an enriched environment are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luka Šlosar
- Science and Research Centre Koper, Institute for Kinesiology Research, Koper, Slovenia
- Alma Mater Europaea – ECM, Department of Health Sciences, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Manca Peskar
- Science and Research Centre Koper, Institute for Kinesiology Research, Koper, Slovenia
- Biological Psychology and Neuroergonomics, Department of Psychology and Ergonomics, Faculty V: Mechanical Engineering and Transport Systems, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rado Pišot
- Science and Research Centre Koper, Institute for Kinesiology Research, Koper, Slovenia
| | - Uros Marusic
- Science and Research Centre Koper, Institute for Kinesiology Research, Koper, Slovenia
- Alma Mater Europaea – ECM, Department of Health Sciences, Maribor, Slovenia
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17
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Amelchenko EM, Bezriadnov DV, Chekhov OA, Anokhin KV, Lazutkin AA, Enikolopov G. Age-related decline in cognitive flexibility is associated with the levels of hippocampal neurogenesis. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1232670. [PMID: 37645372 PMCID: PMC10461065 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1232670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is associated with impairments in learning, memory, and cognitive flexibility, as well as a gradual decline in hippocampal neurogenesis. We investigated the performance of 6-and 14-month-old mice (considered mature adult and late middle age, respectively) in learning and memory tasks based on the Morris water maze (MWM) and determined their levels of preceding and current neurogenesis. While both age groups successfully performed in the spatial version of MWM (sMWM), the older mice were less efficient compared to the younger mice when presented with modified versions of the MWM that required a reassessment of the previously acquired experience. This was detected in the reversal version of MWM (rMWM) and was particularly evident in the context discrimination MWM (cdMWM), a novel task that required integrating various distal cues, local cues, and altered contexts and adjusting previously used search strategies. Older mice were impaired in several metrics that characterize rMWM and cdMWM, however, they showed improvement and narrowed the performance gap with the younger mice after additional training. Furthermore, we analyzed the adult-born mature and immature neurons in the hippocampal dentate gyrus and found a significant correlation between neurogenesis levels in individual mice and their performance in the tasks demanding cognitive flexibility. These results provide a detailed description of the age-related changes in learning and memory and underscore the importance of hippocampal neurogenesis in supporting cognitive flexibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgeny M. Amelchenko
- Center for Developmental Genetics, Stony Brook, NY, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | | | - Olga A. Chekhov
- Center for Developmental Genetics, Stony Brook, NY, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Konstantin V. Anokhin
- P.K. Anokhin Research Institute of Normal Physiology RAS, Moscow, Russia
- Institute for Advanced Brain Studies, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander A. Lazutkin
- Center for Developmental Genetics, Stony Brook, NY, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology RAS, Moscow, Russia
| | - Grigori Enikolopov
- Center for Developmental Genetics, Stony Brook, NY, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
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18
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Coutens B, Lejards C, Bouisset G, Verret L, Rampon C, Guiard BP. Enriched environmental exposure reduces the onset of action of the serotonin norepinephrin reuptake inhibitor venlafaxine through its effect on parvalbumin interneurons plasticity in mice. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:227. [PMID: 37365183 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02519-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Mood disorders are associated with hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis overactivity resulting from a decreased inhibitory feedback exerted by the hippocampus on this brain structure. Growing evidence suggests that antidepressants would regulate hippocampal excitatory/inhibitory balance to restore an effective inhibition on this stress axis. While these pharmacological compounds produce beneficial clinical effects, they also have limitations including their long delay of action. Interestingly, non-pharmacological strategies such as environmental enrichment improve therapeutic outcome in depressed patients as in animal models of depression. However, whether exposure to enriched environment also reduces the delay of action of antidepressants remains unknown. We investigated this issue using the corticosterone-induced mouse model of depression, submitted to antidepressant treatment by venlafaxine, alone or in combination with enriched housing. We found that the anxio-depressive phenotype of male mice was improved after only two weeks of venlafaxine treatment when combined with enriched housing, which is six weeks earlier than mice treated with venlafaxine but housed in standard conditions. Furthermore, venlafaxine combined with exposure to enriched environment is associated with a reduction in the number of parvalbumin-positive neurons surrounded by perineuronal nets (PNN) in the mouse hippocampus. We then showed that the presence of PNN in depressed mice prevented their behavioral recovery, while pharmacological degradation of hippocampal PNN accelerated the antidepressant action of venlafaxine. Altogether, our data support the idea that non-pharmacological strategies can shorten the onset of action of antidepressants and further identifies PV interneurons as relevant actors of this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basile Coutens
- Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale (CRCA), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), CNRS UMR5169, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Camille Lejards
- Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale (CRCA), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), CNRS UMR5169, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Guillaume Bouisset
- Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale (CRCA), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), CNRS UMR5169, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Laure Verret
- Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale (CRCA), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), CNRS UMR5169, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Claire Rampon
- Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale (CRCA), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), CNRS UMR5169, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.
| | - Bruno P Guiard
- Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale (CRCA), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), CNRS UMR5169, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.
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19
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Meng H, Li Q, Wang J, Yue W, Zhang D, Sun X, Wang L, Li J. The expansion of newborn neurons in hippocampus improves social recognition deficit in a mouse model of autism. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1162179. [PMID: 37215664 PMCID: PMC10196005 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1162179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by core symptoms of impaired social interaction and communication. The pathological mechanism and treatment are not clear and need further study. Our previous study found that the deletion of high-risk gene Autism Susceptibility 2 (AUTS2) in mice led to dentate gyrus (DG) hypoplasia that highly associated with impaired social novelty recognition. Here we aim to improve the social deficit through increasing the neurogenesis in the subgranular zone (SGZ) and expanding the newborn granule neurons in DG. Methods Three approaches including repeated oxytocin administration, feeding in enriched environment and overexpression of cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (Cdk4)-CyclinD1 complex in DG neural stem cells (NSCs) at the post-weaning stage were conducted. Results We found that the number of EdU labeled proliferative NSCs or retrovirus labeled newborn neurons was significantly increased after manipulations. The social recognition deficit was also significantly improved. Discussion Our findings suggested a possible strategy to restore the social deficit through expansion of newborn neurons in hippocampus, which might provide a new insight into the treatment of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hu Meng
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Qiongwei Li
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Jinxin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Weihua Yue
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
- PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Dai Zhang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
- Institute for Brain Research and Rehabilitation (IBRR), Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Sun
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Lifang Wang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Jun Li
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
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20
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Lopes JB, Małz M, Senko AN, Zocher S, Kempermann G. Loss of individualized behavioral trajectories in adult neurogenesis-deficient cyclin D2 knockout mice. Hippocampus 2023; 33:360-372. [PMID: 36880417 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.23522] [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: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
There is still limited mechanistic insight into how the interaction of individuals with their environment results in the emergence of individuality in behavior and brain structure. Nevertheless, the idea that personal activity shapes the brain is implicit in strategies for healthy cognitive aging as well as in the idea that individuality is reflected in the brain's connectome. We have shown that even isogenic mice kept in a shared enriched environment (ENR) developed divergent and stable social and exploratory trajectories. As these trajectories-measured as roaming entropy (RE)-positively correlated with adult hippocampal neurogenesis, we hypothesized that a feedback between behavioral activity and adult hippocampal neurogenesis might be a causal factor in brain individualization. We used cyclin D2 knockout mice with constitutively extremely low levels of adult hippocampal neurogenesis and their wild-type littermates. We housed them for 3 months in a novel ENR paradigm, consisting of 70 connected cages equipped with radio frequency identification antennae for longitudinal tracking. Cognitive performance was evaluated in the Morris Water Maze task (MWM). With immunohistochemistry we confirmed that adult neurogenesis correlated with RE in both genotypes and that D2 knockout mice had the expected impaired performance in the reversal phase of the MWM. But whereas the wild-type animals developed stable exploratory trajectories with increasing variance, correlating with adult neurogenesis, this individualizing phenotype was absent in D2 knockout mice. Here the behaviors started out more random and revealed less habituation and low variance. Together, these findings suggest that adult neurogenesis contributes to experience-dependent brain individualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jadna Bogado Lopes
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- CRTD - Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Monika Małz
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- CRTD - Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Anna N Senko
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- CRTD - Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sara Zocher
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- CRTD - Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Gerd Kempermann
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- CRTD - Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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21
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Xu L, Jiao M, Cui ZL, Zhao QY, Wang Y, Chen S, Zhang JJ, Jin YH, Mu D, Yang YQ. Enriched environment during adolescence modulates lipid metabolism and emotion-related behaviors in mice. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2023; 26:218-228. [PMID: 34470518 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2021.1972421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Enriched environment (EE) is an important animal experimental paradigm to decipher gene-environment interaction. It is thought to be efficient in aiding recovery from certain metabolism disorders or cognitive impairments. Recently, the effects of EE during adolescence in mice gradually draw much attention. We first established an EE model in adolescent mice, dissected lipid metabolism, and further examined baseline level of anxiety and depression by multiple behavioral tests, including open field test (OFT), elevated zero maze (EZM), tail suspension test (TST), and forced swimming test (FST). EE mice exhibited lower weights, lower cholesterol than standard housing (SH) mice. Behaviorally, EE mice traveled more distance and had higher velocity than SH mice in OFT and EZM. Besides, EE mice showed reduced anxiety levels in OFT and EZM. Furthermore, EE mice also had less immobility time than SH mice in TST and FST. Thus, these results suggest that EE during adolescence has metabolic and behavioral benefits in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming Jiao
- Department of Laboratory Animal Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ze-Lin Cui
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing-Ya Zhao
- Department of Laboratory Animal Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shu Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun-Jie Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Animal Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yin-Hui Jin
- Department of Laboratory Animal Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Di Mu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Qin Yang
- Department of Laboratory Animal Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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22
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Dahlmanns M, Dahlmanns JK, Schmidt CC, Valero-Aracama MJ, Zheng F, Alzheimer C. Environmental enrichment recruits activin A to recalibrate neural activity in mouse hippocampus. Cereb Cortex 2023; 33:663-675. [PMID: 35257169 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhac092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The TGF-β family member activin A modulates neural underpinnings of cognitive and affective functions in an activity-dependent fashion. We have previously shown that exploration of a novel and enriched environment (EE) strongly enhanced activin signaling. Whereas the many beneficial effects of EE are amply documented, the underlying mechanisms remain largely elusive. Here, we examined the hypothesis that EE recruits activin to regulate synaptic plasticity in a coordinated, cognition-promoting manner. Elevated activin levels after EE enhanced CA1 pyramidal cell excitability, facilitated synaptic transmission, and promoted long-term potentiation. These EE-induced changes were largely absent in mice expressing a dominant-negative mutant of activin receptor IB. We then interrogated the impact of activin on network oscillations and functional connectivity, using high-speed Ca 2+ imaging to study spike routing within networks formed by dissociated primary hippocampal cultures. Activin facilitated Ca2+ signaling, enhanced the network strength, and shortened the weighted characteristic path length. In the slice preparation, activin promoted theta oscillations during cholinergic stimulation. Thus, we advance activin as an activity-dependent and very early molecular effector that translates behavioral stimuli experienced during EE exposure into a set of synchronized changes in neuronal excitability, synaptic plasticity, and network activity that are all tuned to improve cognitive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Dahlmanns
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jana Katharina Dahlmanns
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Carla C Schmidt
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Maria Jesus Valero-Aracama
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Fang Zheng
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christian Alzheimer
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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23
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Amofa-Ho PA, Stickel AM, Chen R, Kobayashi LC, Glymour MM, Eng CW. The Mediating Roles of Neurobiomarkers in the Relationship Between Education and Late-Life Cognition. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 95:1405-1416. [PMID: 37694365 PMCID: PMC10578223 DOI: 10.3233/jad-230244] [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] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mediating roles of neuropathologies and neurovascular damage in the relationship between early-life education and later-life cognitive function are unknown. OBJECTIVE To examine whether Alzheimer's and neurovascular biomarkers mediate the relationships between education and cognitive functions. METHODS Data were from 537 adults aged 55-94 in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative 3. We tested whether the relationships between education (continuous, years) and cognitive function (memory, executive functioning, and language composites) were mediated by neuroimaging biomarkers (hippocampal volumes, cortical gray matter volumes, meta-temporal tau PET standard uptake value ratio, and white matter hyperintensity volumes). Models were adjusted for age, race, sex/gender, cardiovascular history, body mass index, depression, and Apolipoprotein E-ɛ4 status. RESULTS Hippocampal volumes and white matter hyperintensities partially mediated the relationships between education and cognitive function across all domains (6.43% to 15.72% mediated). The direct effects of education on each cognitive domain were strong and statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Commonly measured neurobiomarkers only partially mediate the relationships between education and multi-domain cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla A. Amofa-Ho
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Ariana M. Stickel
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Ruijia Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lindsay C. Kobayashi
- Center for Social Epidemiology and Population Health, Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - M. Maria Glymour
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Chloe W. Eng
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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24
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Combined long-term enriched environment and caffeine supplementation improve memory function in C57Bl6 mice. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2023; 273:269-281. [PMID: 35676374 PMCID: PMC9958139 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-022-01431-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Regular physical activity has been associated with healthy brain aging, reflected by beneficial effects on cognition and learning and memory. Nutritional supplements such as caffeine have been shown to act as cognitive enhancers and may possess neuroprotective properties. Interestingly, caffeine also improves athletic capabilities and is widely used by athletes because of its performance-enhancing effect, while information on potential additive beneficial effects of physical activity and caffeine on cognitive performance is scarce. In the present study, the effects of caffeine supplementation in combination with prolonged physical and cognitive stimulation in the form of the enriched environment (EE) housing for a duration of 4 months were analyzed. We demonstrate that caffeine supplementation together with prolonged environmental enrichment led to enhanced memory function, resulting in improved recognition and spatial working memory in behavioral paradigms such as the novel object recognition task or the Morris water maze in C57Bl6 wild-type mice. Mice housed under EE conditions showed increased gene expression levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus. The present findings underscore the potential impact of continuous physical activity in the prevention of age-related cognitive decline and may offer new options for combinatorial approaches.
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25
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Mañas‐Padilla MC, Tezanos P, Cintado E, Vicente L, Sánchez‐Salido L, Gil‐Rodríguez S, Trejo JL, Santín LJ, Castilla‐Ortega E. Environmental enrichment alleviates cognitive and psychomotor alterations and increases adult hippocampal neurogenesis in cocaine withdrawn mice. Addict Biol 2023; 28:e13244. [PMID: 36577726 PMCID: PMC9786803 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cocaine is a widely used psychostimulant drug whose repeated exposure induces persistent cognitive/emotional dysregulation, which could be a predictor of relapse in users. However, there is scarce evidence on effective treatments to alleviate these symptoms. Environmental enrichment (EE) has been shown to be associated with improved synaptic function and cellular plasticity changes related to adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN), resulting in cognitive enhancement. Therefore, EE could mitigate the negative impact of chronic administration of cocaine in mice and reduce the emotional and cognitive symptoms present during cocaine abstinence. In this study, mice were chronically administered with cocaine for 14 days, and control mice received saline. After the last cocaine or saline dose, mice were submitted to control or EE housing conditions, and they stayed undisturbed for 28 days. Subsequently, mice were evaluated with a battery of behavioural tests for exploratory activity, emotional behaviour, and cognitive performance. EE attenuated hyperlocomotion, induced anxiolytic-like behaviour and alleviated cognitive impairment in spatial memory in the cocaine-abstinent mice. The EE protocol notably upregulated AHN in both control and cocaine-treated mice, though cocaine slightly reduced the number of immature neurons. Altogether, these results demonstrate that EE could enhance hippocampal neuroplasticity ameliorating the behavioural and cognitive consequences of repeated administration of cocaine. Therefore, environmental stimulation may be a useful strategy in the treatment cocaine addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Carmen Mañas‐Padilla
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga‐IBIMAMálagaSpain,Departamento de Psicobiología y Metodología de las Ciencias del ComportamientoUniversidad de MálagaMálagaSpain
| | - Patricia Tezanos
- Department of Translational NeuroscienceCajal Institute, Spanish National Research CouncilMadridSpain
| | - Elisa Cintado
- Department of Translational NeuroscienceCajal Institute, Spanish National Research CouncilMadridSpain
| | - Lucía Vicente
- Centro de Experimentación AnimalUniversidad de MálagaMálagaSpain,Departamento de PsicologíaUniversidad de DeustoBilbaoSpain
| | - Lourdes Sánchez‐Salido
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga‐IBIMAMálagaSpain,Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud MentalHospital Regional Universitario de MálagaMálagaSpain
| | - Sara Gil‐Rodríguez
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga‐IBIMAMálagaSpain,Departamento de Psicobiología y Metodología de las Ciencias del ComportamientoUniversidad de MálagaMálagaSpain
| | - José L. Trejo
- Department of Translational NeuroscienceCajal Institute, Spanish National Research CouncilMadridSpain
| | - Luis J. Santín
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga‐IBIMAMálagaSpain,Departamento de Psicobiología y Metodología de las Ciencias del ComportamientoUniversidad de MálagaMálagaSpain
| | - Estela Castilla‐Ortega
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga‐IBIMAMálagaSpain,Departamento de Psicobiología y Metodología de las Ciencias del ComportamientoUniversidad de MálagaMálagaSpain
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26
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Barth K, Vasić V, McDonald B, Heinig N, Wagner MC, Schumann U, Röhlecke C, Bicker F, Schumann L, Radyushkin K, Baumgart J, Tenzer S, Zipp F, Meinhardt M, Alitalo K, Tegeder I, Schmidt MHH. EGFL7 loss correlates with increased VEGF-D expression, upregulating hippocampal adult neurogenesis and improving spatial learning and memory. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:54. [PMID: 36715759 PMCID: PMC9886625 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04685-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Neural stem cells reside in the subgranular zone, a specialized neurogenic niche of the hippocampus. Throughout adulthood, these cells give rise to neurons in the dentate gyrus, playing an important role in learning and memory. Given that these core cognitive processes are disrupted in numerous disease states, understanding the underlying mechanisms of neural stem cell proliferation in the subgranular zone is of direct practical interest. Here, we report that mature neurons, neural stem cells and neural precursor cells each secrete the neurovascular protein epidermal growth factor-like protein 7 (EGFL7) to shape this hippocampal niche. We further demonstrate that EGFL7 knock-out in a Nestin-CreERT2-based mouse model produces a pronounced upregulation of neurogenesis within the subgranular zone. RNA sequencing identified that the increased expression of the cytokine VEGF-D correlates significantly with the ablation of EGFL7. We substantiate this finding with intraventricular infusion of VEGF-D upregulating neurogenesis in vivo and further show that VEGF-D knock-out produces a downregulation of neurogenesis. Finally, behavioral studies in EGFL7 knock-out mice demonstrate greater maintenance of spatial memory and improved memory consolidation in the hippocampus by modulation of pattern separation. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that both EGFL7 and VEGF-D affect neurogenesis in the adult hippocampus, with the ablation of EGFL7 upregulating neurogenesis, increasing spatial learning and memory, and correlating with increased VEGF-D expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Barth
- Institute of Anatomy, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden School of Medicine, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Verica Vasić
- Institute of Medical Informatics and Biometry, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden School of Medicine, Dresden, Germany ,Institute of Anatomy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Brennan McDonald
- Institute of Anatomy, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden School of Medicine, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Nora Heinig
- Institute of Anatomy, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden School of Medicine, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Marc-Christoph Wagner
- Institute of Anatomy, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden School of Medicine, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany ,Institute of Medical Informatics and Biometry, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden School of Medicine, Dresden, Germany
| | - Ulrike Schumann
- Institute of Anatomy, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden School of Medicine, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Cora Röhlecke
- Institute of Anatomy, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden School of Medicine, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Frank Bicker
- Institute of Anatomy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany ,Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Lana Schumann
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe-University Hospital Frankfurt Am Main, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Konstantin Radyushkin
- Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany ,Mouse Behavior Outcome Unit, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jan Baumgart
- Translational Animal Research Center (TARC), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Stefan Tenzer
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany ,Focus Program Immunotherapy (FZI), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Frauke Zipp
- Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany ,Focus Program Immunotherapy (FZI), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany ,Department of Neurology, Rhine-Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Matthias Meinhardt
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Kari Alitalo
- Translational Cancer Medicine Program and iCAN Digital Precision Cancer Medicine Flagship, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Irmgard Tegeder
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe-University Hospital Frankfurt Am Main, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Mirko H. H. Schmidt
- Institute of Anatomy, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden School of Medicine, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
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27
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The Molecular Effects of Environmental Enrichment on Alzheimer's Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:7095-7118. [PMID: 36083518 PMCID: PMC9616781 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-03016-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Environmental enrichment (EE) is an environmental paradigm encompassing sensory, cognitive, and physical stimulation at a heightened level. Previous studies have reported the beneficial effects of EE in the brain, particularly in the hippocampus. EE improves cognitive function as well as ameliorates depressive and anxiety-like behaviors, making it a potentially effective neuroprotective strategy against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, we summarize the current evidence for EE as a neuroprotective strategy as well as the potential molecular pathways that can explain the effects of EE from a biochemical perspective using animal models. The effectiveness of EE in enhancing brain activity against neurodegeneration is explored with a view to differences present in early and late life EE exposure, with its potential application in human being discussed. We discuss EE as one of the non pharmacological approaches in preventing or delaying the onset of AD for future research.
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28
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Restoring Age-Related Cognitive Decline through Environmental Enrichment: A Transcriptomic Approach. Cells 2022; 11:cells11233864. [PMID: 36497123 PMCID: PMC9736066 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive decline is one of the greatest health threats of old age and the maintenance of optimal brain function across a lifespan remains a big challenge. The hippocampus is considered particularly vulnerable but there is cross-species consensus that its functional integrity benefits from the early and continuous exercise of demanding physical, social and mental activities, also referred to as environmental enrichment (EE). Here, we investigated the extent to which late-onset EE can improve the already-impaired cognitive abilities of lifelong deprived C57BL/6 mice and how it affects gene expression in the hippocampus. To this end, 5- and 24-month-old mice housed in standard cages (5mSC and 24mSC) and 24-month-old mice exposed to EE in the last 2 months of their life (24mEE) were subjected to a Barnes maze task followed by next-generation RNA sequencing of the hippocampal tissue. Our analyses showed that late-onset EE was able to restore deficits in spatial learning and short-term memory in 24-month-old mice. These positive cognitive effects were reflected by specific changes in the hippocampal transcriptome, where late-onset EE affected transcription much more than age (24mSC vs. 24mEE: 1311 DEGs, 24mSC vs. 5mSC: 860 DEGs). Remarkably, a small intersection of 72 age-related DEGs was counter-regulated by late-onset EE. Of these, Bcl3, Cttnbp2, Diexf, Esr2, Grb10, Il4ra, Inhba, Rras2, Rps6ka1 and Socs3 appear to be particularly relevant as key regulators involved in dendritic spine plasticity and in age-relevant molecular signaling cascades mediating senescence, insulin resistance, apoptosis and tissue regeneration. In summary, our observations suggest that the brains of aged mice in standard cage housing preserve a considerable degree of plasticity. Switching them to EE proved to be a promising and non-pharmacological intervention against cognitive decline.
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29
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Gattas S, Collett HA, Huff AE, Creighton SD, Weber SE, Buckhalter SS, Manning SA, Ryait HS, McNaughton BL, Winters BD. A rodent obstacle course procedure controls delivery of enrichment and enhances complex cognitive functions. NPJ SCIENCE OF LEARNING 2022; 7:21. [PMID: 36057661 PMCID: PMC9440923 DOI: 10.1038/s41539-022-00134-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Enrichment in rodents affects brain structure, improves behavioral performance, and is neuroprotective. Similarly, in humans, according to the cognitive reserve concept, enriched experience is functionally protective against neuropathology. Despite this parallel, the ability to translate rodent studies to human clinical situations is limited. This limitation is likely due to the simple cognitive processes probed in rodent studies and the inability to control, with existing methods, the degree of rodent engagement with enrichment material. We overcome these two difficulties with behavioral tasks that probe, in a fine-grained manner, aspects of higher-order cognition associated with deterioration with aging and dementia, and a new enrichment protocol, the 'Obstacle Course' (OC), which enables controlled enrichment delivery, respectively. Together, these two advancements will enable better specification (and comparisons) of the nature of impairments in animal models of complex mental disorders and the potential for remediation from various types of intervention (e.g., enrichment, drugs). We found that two months of OC enrichment produced substantial and sustained enhancements in categorization memory, perceptual object invariance, and cross-modal sensory integration in mice. We also tested mice on behavioral tasks previously shown to benefit from traditional enrichment: spontaneous object recognition, object location memory, and pairwise visual discrimination. OC enrichment improved performance relative to standard housing on all six tasks and was in most cases superior to conventional home-cage enrichment and exercise track groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Gattas
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
| | - Heather A Collett
- Department of Psychology and Collaborative Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Andrew E Huff
- Department of Psychology and Collaborative Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Samantha D Creighton
- Department of Psychology and Collaborative Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Siobhon E Weber
- Department of Psychology and Collaborative Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | | | - Silas A Manning
- Department of Psychology and Collaborative Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Hardeep S Ryait
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - Bruce L McNaughton
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada.
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
| | - Boyer D Winters
- Department of Psychology and Collaborative Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.
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30
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Améndola L, Weary D, Zobel G. Effects of personality on assessments of anxiety and cognition. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 141:104827. [PMID: 35970418 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Individual variation in responses to commonly used tests of anxiety and spatial memory is often reported. While this variation is frequently considered to be 'noise', evidence suggests that it is, at least partially, related to consistent individual differences in behavioral responses (i.e., personality). The same tests used to assess anxiety are often used to profile personality traits, but personality differences are rarely considered when testing treatment differences in anxiety. Focusing on the rat literature, we describe fundamental principles involved in anxiety and spatial memory tests and we discuss how personality differences and housing conditions can influence behavioral responses in these tests. We propose that an opportunity exists to increase stress resiliency in environmentally sensitive individuals by providing environmental enrichment. We conclude by discussing different approaches to incorporating personality measures into the design and analysis of future studies; given the potential that variation masks research outcomes, we suggest that a strategy which considers the individual and its housing can contribute to improving research reproducibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Améndola
- Animal Welfare Program, University of British Columbia, Canada.
| | - Daniel Weary
- Animal Welfare Program, University of British Columbia, Canada.
| | - Gosia Zobel
- Animal Behaviour and Welfare Team, AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, 10 Bisley Road, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton 3214, New Zealand.
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31
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Driscoll LN, Duncker L, Harvey CD. Representational drift: Emerging theories for continual learning and experimental future directions. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2022; 76:102609. [PMID: 35939861 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2022.102609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Recent work has revealed that the neural activity patterns correlated with sensation, cognition, and action often are not stable and instead undergo large scale changes over days and weeks-a phenomenon called representational drift. Here, we highlight recent observations of drift, how drift is unlikely to be explained by experimental confounds, and how the brain can likely compensate for drift to allow stable computation. We propose that drift might have important roles in neural computation to allow continual learning, both for separating and relating memories that occur at distinct times. Finally, we present an outlook on future experimental directions that are needed to further characterize drift and to test emerging theories for drift's role in computation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura N Driscoll
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Lea Duncker
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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32
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Kuga N, Sasaki T. Memory-related neurophysiological mechanisms in the hippocampus underlying stress susceptibility. Neurosci Res 2022:S0168-0102(22)00213-9. [PMID: 35931215 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2022.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Stress-induced psychiatric symptoms, such as increased anxiety, decreased sociality, and depression, differ considerably across individuals. The cognitive model of depression proposes that biased negative memory is a crucial determinant in the development of mental stress-induced disorders. Accumulating evidence from both clinical and animal studies has demonstrated that such biased memory processing could be triggered by the hippocampus, a region well known to be involved in declarative memories. This review mainly describes how memory-related neurophysiological mechanisms in the hippocampus and their interactions with other related brain regions are involved in the regulation of stress susceptibility and discusses potential interventions to prevent and treat stress-related psychiatric symptoms. Further neurophysiological insights based on memory mechanisms are expected to devise personalized prevention and therapy to confer stress resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahoko Kuga
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, 6-3 Aramaki-Aoba, Aoba-Ku, Sendai 980-8578, Japan
| | - Takuya Sasaki
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, 6-3 Aramaki-Aoba, Aoba-Ku, Sendai 980-8578, Japan.
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33
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Han Y, Yuan M, Guo YS, Shen XY, Gao ZK, Bi X. The role of enriched environment in neural development and repair. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:890666. [PMID: 35936498 PMCID: PMC9350910 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.890666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to genetic information, environmental factors play an important role in the structure and function of nervous system and the occurrence and development of some nervous system diseases. Enriched environment (EE) can not only promote normal neural development through enhancing neuroplasticity but also play a nerve repair role in restoring functional activities during CNS injury by morphological and cellular and molecular adaptations in the brain. Different stages of development after birth respond to the environment to varying degrees. Therefore, we systematically review the pro-developmental and anti-stress value of EE during pregnancy, pre-weaning, and “adolescence” and analyze the difference in the effects of EE and its sub-components, especially with physical exercise. In our exploration of potential mechanisms that promote neurodevelopment, we have found that not all sub-components exert maximum value throughout the developmental phase, such as animals that do not respond to physical activity before weaning, and that EE is not superior to its sub-components in all respects. EE affects the developing and adult brain, resulting in some neuroplastic changes in the microscopic and macroscopic anatomy, finally contributing to enhanced learning and memory capacity. These positive promoting influences are particularly prominent regarding neural repair after neurobiological disorders. Taking cerebral ischemia as an example, we analyzed the molecular mediators of EE promoting repair from various dimensions. We found that EE does not always lead to positive effects on nerve repair, such as infarct size. In view of the classic issues such as standardization and relativity of EE have been thoroughly discussed, we finally focus on analyzing the essentiality of the time window of EE action and clinical translation in order to devote to the future research direction of EE and rapid and reasonable clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Han
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Mei Yuan
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-Sha Guo
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin-Ya Shen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Department of Graduate School, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences Affiliated Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen-Kun Gao
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Department of Graduate School, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences Affiliated Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xia Bi
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Xia Bi
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Survey on the Past Decade of Technology in Animal Enrichment: A Scoping Review. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12141792. [PMID: 35883339 PMCID: PMC9311579 DOI: 10.3390/ani12141792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Enrichment is important for supporting the well-being of captive animals. Enrichment increase animal quality of life through encouraging natural behaviours. As enrichment is shifting to a more centered role in animal care, technology is becoming increasingly accessible and is becoming embedded in animal enrichment in creative ways. This review explores the trends in technology usage in animal enrichment studies. Through pulling the past decade of technology enrichment work together, we discuss gaps such as needing to include a larger variety of species (extending passed mammals), ensuring enrichment designs focus primarily on the senses an animal uses to interact with the world rather than human senses, and encouraging similar study designs across animal contexts to allow for streamlined comparisons. Abstract Environmental enrichment is adding complexity to an environment that has a positive impact on a captive animal as a necessity of care. Computing technology is being rapidly weaved throughout the space in both enrichment devices as well as evaluating enrichment outcomes. In this article, we present a scoping review of 102 captive animal enrichment studies and propose a contextual lens for exploring current practices. We discuss the importance of directed growth in species inclusion, transitioning beyond anthro-centric designs, and utilizing shared methodologies.
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Cheng ST, Liu S, Ou-Yang B, Dai XY, Cheng L. Specific Effects of Characteristics of Enriched Environment on Innovative Problem Solving by Animals. Psychol Sci 2022; 33:1097-1111. [PMID: 35776087 DOI: 10.1177/09567976211070562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have revealed that an enriched environment can enhance the survival-related behaviors and brain functions of animals. However, the effects and specific roles of the enrichment characteristics on animals' innovative capability, a cognitive ability crucial for survival in nature, are still not well known. In this study, we assigned mice to environment-manipulation groups (n = 15 each) to investigate the specific effects of environmental novelty (novel vs. familiar) and environmental complexity (complex vs. normal) on innovative problem solving and its possible neural mechanisms. Results showed that mice in only the novel-environment group performed better at innovative-problem-solving tasks and showed greater numbers of novel explorations and dopaminergic projections from the ventral tegmental area to the nucleus accumbens in the brain. These findings indicate that an enriched environment has the potential to promote the innovative capability of mice by enhancing their novel exploratory motivation, which depends on the novelty of the environment but not its complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sha-Te Cheng
- School of Psychology, Central China Normal University.,Key Laboratory of Adolescent Cyberpsychology and Behavior, Ministry of Education, Central China Normal University
| | - Sha Liu
- School of Psychology, Central China Normal University.,Key Laboratory of Adolescent Cyberpsychology and Behavior, Ministry of Education, Central China Normal University
| | - Bo Ou-Yang
- School of Psychology, Central China Normal University.,Key Laboratory of Adolescent Cyberpsychology and Behavior, Ministry of Education, Central China Normal University
| | - Xin-Yu Dai
- School of Psychology, Central China Normal University.,Key Laboratory of Adolescent Cyberpsychology and Behavior, Ministry of Education, Central China Normal University
| | - Liang Cheng
- School of Psychology, Central China Normal University.,Key Laboratory of Adolescent Cyberpsychology and Behavior, Ministry of Education, Central China Normal University
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Dos Anjos-Garcia T, Kanashiro A, de Campos AC, Coimbra NC. Environmental Enrichment Facilitates Anxiety in Conflict-Based Tests but Inhibits Predator Threat-Induced Defensive Behaviour in Male Mice. Neuropsychobiology 2022; 81:225-236. [PMID: 35026760 DOI: 10.1159/000521184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Environmental enrichment (EE) is a useful and sophisticated tool that improves rodents' well-being by stimulating social behaviour and cognitive, motor, and sensory functions. Exposure to EE induces neuroplasticity in different brain areas, including the limbic system, which has been implicated in the control of anxiety and fear. However, the effects of EE on ethologically relevant naturalistic behaviours, such as those displayed by prey in the presence of predators, remain largely unexplored. MATERIAL AND METHODS In the present study, we investigated anxiety- and panic attack-like behaviours in a predator (cat)-prey confrontation paradigm and compared them with those in classical assays, such as the elevated plus-maze (EPM), marble-burying, and open field tests (OFTs), using C57BL/6J male mice housed in enriched or standard environments for 6 weeks. RESULTS We observed that EE exposure caused enhancement of the levels of anxiety-like behaviours in the EPM and OFTs, increasing risk assessment (an anxiety-related response), and decreasing escape (a panic attack-like response) behaviours during exposure to the predator versus prey confrontation paradigm. CONCLUSION Taken together, our findings suggest that enriched external environments can modify the processing of fear- and anxiety-related stimuli in dangerous situations, changing the decision-making defensive strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayllon Dos Anjos-Garcia
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Neuropsychobiology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), São Paulo, Brazil.,NAP-USP-Neurobiology of Emotions Research Centre (NuPNE), Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), São Paulo, Brazil.,Behavioural Neurosciences Institute (INeC), São Paulo, Brazil.,Ophidiarium LNN-FMRP-USP/INeC, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Kanashiro
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Neuropsychobiology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), São Paulo, Brazil.,NAP-USP-Neurobiology of Emotions Research Centre (NuPNE), Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), São Paulo, Brazil.,Ophidiarium LNN-FMRP-USP/INeC, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Division of Neurology, Department of Neuroscience and Behavioural Sciences, Post-Graduation Program in Neurology/Neurosciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alline Cristina de Campos
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacology of Neuroplasticity Laboratory, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Norberto Cysne Coimbra
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Neuroanatomy and Neuropsychobiology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), São Paulo, Brazil.,NAP-USP-Neurobiology of Emotions Research Centre (NuPNE), Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), São Paulo, Brazil.,Behavioural Neurosciences Institute (INeC), São Paulo, Brazil.,Ophidiarium LNN-FMRP-USP/INeC, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Division of Neurology, Department of Neuroscience and Behavioural Sciences, Post-Graduation Program in Neurology/Neurosciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), São Paulo, Brazil
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Culig L, Chu X, Bohr VA. Neurogenesis in aging and age-related neurodegenerative diseases. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 78:101636. [PMID: 35490966 PMCID: PMC9168971 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Adult neurogenesis, the process by which neurons are generated in certain areas of the adult brain, declines in an age-dependent manner and is one potential target for extending cognitive healthspan. Aging is a major risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases and, as lifespans are increasing, these health challenges are becoming more prevalent. An age-associated loss in neural stem cell number and/or activity could cause this decline in brain function, so interventions that reverse aging in stem cells might increase the human cognitive healthspan. In this review, we describe the involvement of adult neurogenesis in neurodegenerative diseases and address the molecular mechanistic aspects of neurogenesis that involve some of the key aggregation-prone proteins in the brain (i.e., tau, Aβ, α-synuclein, …). We summarize the research pertaining to interventions that increase neurogenesis and regulate known targets in aging research, such as mTOR and sirtuins. Lastly, we share our outlook on restoring the levels of neurogenesis to physiological levels in elderly individuals and those with neurodegeneration. We suggest that modulating neurogenesis represents a potential target for interventions that could help in the fight against neurodegeneration and cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luka Culig
- Section on DNA Repair, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Xixia Chu
- Section on DNA Repair, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Vilhelm A Bohr
- Section on DNA Repair, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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38
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Konno D, Ikegaya Y, Sasaki T. Weak representation of awake/sleep states by local field potentials in aged mice. Sci Rep 2022; 12:7766. [PMID: 35545694 PMCID: PMC9095686 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-11888-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Senescence affects various aspects of sleep, and it remains unclear how sleep-related neuronal network activity is altered by senescence. Here, we recorded local field potential signals from multiple brain regions covering the forebrain in young (10-week-old) and aged (2-year-old) mice. Interregional LFP correlations across these brain regions could not detect pronounced differences between awake and sleep states in both young and aged mice. Multivariate analyses with machine learning algorithms with uniform manifold approximation and projection and robust continuous clustering demonstrated that LFP correlational patterns at multiple frequency bands, ranging from delta to high gamma bands, in aged mice less represented awake/sleep states than those in young mice. By housing aged mice in an enriched environment, the LFP patterns were changed to more precisely represent awake/sleep states. Our results demonstrate senescence-induced changes in neuronal activity at the network level and provide insight into the prevention of pathological symptoms associated with sleep disturbance in senescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daichi Konno
- Laboratory of Chemical Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.,Laboratory of Geriatric Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Yuji Ikegaya
- Laboratory of Chemical Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.,Institute for AI and Beyond, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.,Center for Information and Neural Networks, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, Suita City, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Takuya Sasaki
- Laboratory of Chemical Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan. .,Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, 6-3 Aramaki-Aoba, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8578, Japan.
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Genetically modified mice for research on human diseases: A triumph for Biotechnology or a work in progress? THE EUROBIOTECH JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.2478/ebtj-2022-0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Genetically modified mice are engineered as models for human diseases. These mouse models include inbred strains, mutants, gene knockouts, gene knockins, and ‘humanized’ mice. Each mouse model is engineered to mimic a specific disease based on a theory of the genetic basis of that disease. For example, to test the amyloid theory of Alzheimer’s disease, mice with amyloid precursor protein genes are engineered, and to test the tau theory, mice with tau genes are engineered. This paper discusses the importance of mouse models in basic research, drug discovery, and translational research, and examines the question of how to define the “best” mouse model of a disease. The critiques of animal models and the caveats in translating the results from animal models to the treatment of human disease are discussed. Since many diseases are heritable, multigenic, age-related and experience-dependent, resulting from multiple gene-gene and gene-environment interactions, it will be essential to develop mouse models that reflect these genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors from a developmental perspective. Such models would provide further insight into disease emergence, progression and the ability to model two-hit and multi-hit theories of disease. The summary examines the biotechnology for creating genetically modified mice which reflect these factors and how they might be used to discover new treatments for complex human diseases such as cancers, neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Kempermann G. What Is Adult Hippocampal Neurogenesis Good for? Front Neurosci 2022; 16:852680. [PMID: 35495058 PMCID: PMC9051245 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.852680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult hippocampal neurogenesis is a unique and exceptional process in the mammalian brain that in a lifelong and activity-dependent way generates new excitatory principal neurons. A comprehensive view on their function in greater contexts has now emerged, revealing to which extent the hippocampus (and hence brain and mind) depend on these neurons. Due to a postmitotic period of heightened synaptic plasticity they bias incoming excitation to the dentate gyrus to non-overlapping subnetworks, resulting in pattern separation and the avoidance of catastrophic interference. Temporally, this promotes the flexible integration of novel information into familiar contexts and contributes to episodic memory, which in humans would be critical for autobiographic memory. Together these local effects represent a unique strategy to solve the plasticity-stability dilemma that all learning neuronal networks are facing. Neurogenesis-dependent plasticity also improves memory consolidation. This relates to the surprising involvement of adult neurogenesis in forgetting, which is also hypothesized to be critically relevant for negative plasticity, for example in post-traumatic stress disorder. In addition, adult-born neurons also directly mediate stress-resilience and take part in affective behaviors. Finally, the activity- and experience-dependent plasticity that is contributed by adult neurogenesis is associated with an individualization of the hippocampal circuitry. While a solid and largely consensual understanding of how new neurons contribute to hippocampal function has been reached, an overarching unifying theory that embeds neurogenesis-dependent functionality and effects on connectomics is still missing. More sophisticated multi-electrode electrophysiology, advanced ethologically relevant behavioral tests, and next-generation computational modeling will let us take the next steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerd Kempermann
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Dresden, Germany
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- *Correspondence: Gerd Kempermann, ;
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Maneechote C, Chunchai T, Apaijai N, Chattipakorn N, Chattipakorn SC. Pharmacological Targeting of Mitochondrial Fission and Fusion Alleviates Cognitive Impairment and Brain Pathologies in Pre-diabetic Rats. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:3690-3702. [PMID: 35364801 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02813-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
It has recently been accepted that long-term high-fat diet (HFD) intake is a significant possible cause for prediabetes and cognitive and brain dysfunction through the disruption of brain mitochondrial function and dynamic balance. Although modulation of mitochondrial dynamics by inhibiting fission and promoting fusion has been shown to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with a variety of chronic diseases, the impact of either pharmacological inhibition of mitochondrial fission (Mdivi-1) or stimulation of fusion (M1) on brain function in HFD-induced prediabetic models has never been studied. Thirty-two male Wistar rats were separated into 2 groups and fed either a normal diet (ND, n = 8) or HFD (n = 24) for 14 weeks. At week 12, HFD-fed rats were divided into 3 subgroups (n = 8/subgroup) and given an intraperitoneal injection of either saline, Mdivi-1 (1.2 mg/kg/day), or M1 (2 mg/kg/day) for 2 weeks. Cognitive function and metabolic parameters were determined toward the end of the protocol. The rats then were euthanized, and the brain was immediately removed in order to evaluate brain mitochondrial function and mitochondrial dynamics. HFD-fed rats experienced prediabetes, evidenced by elevated plasma insulin and the HOMA index, impaired mitochondrial function in the brain, altered dynamic regulation, and cognitive impairment were also found. Mdivi-1 and M1 treatment exerted neuroprotection to a similar extent by improving metabolic parameters, balancing mitochondrial dynamics, and reducing mitochondrial dysfunction, resulting in a gradual increase in cognitive function. Therefore, pharmacological targeting of mitochondrial fission and fusion protected the brain against chronic HFD-induced prediabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chayodom Maneechote
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.,Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Titikorn Chunchai
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.,Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Nattayaporn Apaijai
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.,Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.,Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Nipon Chattipakorn
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.,Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.,Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Siriporn C Chattipakorn
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand. .,Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand. .,Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
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42
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Berlet R, Galang Cabantan DA, Gonzales-Portillo D, Borlongan CV. Enriched Environment and Exercise Enhance Stem Cell Therapy for Stroke, Parkinson’s Disease, and Huntington’s Disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:798826. [PMID: 35309929 PMCID: PMC8927702 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.798826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cells, specifically embryonic stem cells (ESCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (IPSCs), and neural progenitor stem cells (NSCs), are a possible treatment for stroke, Parkinson’s disease (PD), and Huntington’s disease (HD). Current preclinical data suggest stem cell transplantation is a potential treatment for these chronic conditions that lack effective long-term treatment options. Finding treatments with a wider therapeutic window and harnessing a disease-modifying approach will likely improve clinical outcomes. The overarching concept of stem cell therapy entails the use of immature cells, while key in recapitulating brain development and presents the challenge of young grafted cells forming neural circuitry with the mature host brain cells. To this end, exploring strategies designed to nurture graft-host integration will likely enhance the reconstruction of the elusive neural circuitry. Enriched environment (EE) and exercise facilitate stem cell graft-host reconstruction of neural circuitry. It may involve at least a two-pronged mechanism whereby EE and exercise create a conducive microenvironment in the host brain, allowing the newly transplanted cells to survive, proliferate, and differentiate into neural cells; vice versa, EE and exercise may also train the transplanted immature cells to learn the neurochemical, physiological, and anatomical signals in the brain towards better functional graft-host connectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reed Berlet
- Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | | | | | - Cesar V. Borlongan
- Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Repair, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
- *Correspondence: Cesar V. Borlongan,
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43
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Hernández-Mercado K, Zepeda A. Morris Water Maze and Contextual Fear Conditioning Tasks to Evaluate Cognitive Functions Associated With Adult Hippocampal Neurogenesis. Front Neurosci 2022; 15:782947. [PMID: 35046769 PMCID: PMC8761726 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.782947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
New neurons are continuously generated and functionally integrated into the dentate gyrus (DG) network during the adult lifespan of most mammals. The hippocampus is a crucial structure for spatial learning and memory, and the addition of new neurons into the DG circuitry of rodents seems to be a key element for these processes to occur. The Morris water maze (MWM) and contextual fear conditioning (CFC) are among the most commonly used hippocampus-dependent behavioral tasks to study episodic-like learning and memory in rodents. While the functional contribution of adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) through these paradigms has been widely addressed, results have generated controversial findings. In this review, we analyze and discuss possible factors in the experimental methods that could explain the inconsistent results among AHN studies; moreover, we provide specific suggestions for the design of more sensitive protocols to assess AHN-mediated learning and memory functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Hernández-Mercado
- Departamento de Medicina Genómica y Toxicológia Ambiental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Angélica Zepeda
- Departamento de Medicina Genómica y Toxicológia Ambiental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
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Faraji J, Lotfi H, Moharrerie A, Jafari SY, Soltanpour N, Tamannaiee R, Marjani K, Roudaki S, Naseri F, Moeeini R, Metz GAS. Regional Differences in BDNF Expression and Behavior as a Function of Sex and Enrichment Type: Oxytocin Matters. Cereb Cortex 2022; 32:2985-2999. [DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhab395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The early environment is critical to brain development, but the relative contribution of physical versus social stimulation is unclear. Here, we investigated in male and female rats the response to early physical and social environmental enrichment in relation to oxytocin (OT) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression. The findings show that males and females respond differently to prolonged sensorimotor stimulation from postnatal days 21–110 in terms of functional, structural, and molecular changes in the hippocampus versus medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). Physical enrichment promoted motor and cognitive functions and hippocampal BDNF mRNA and protein expression in both sexes. Combined physical and social enrichment, however, promoted functional and structural gain in females. These changes were accompanied by elevated plasma oxytocin (OT) levels and BDNF mRNA expression in the mPFC, while the hippocampus was not affected. Administration of an OT antagonist in females blocked the beneficial effects of enrichment and led to reduced cortical BDNF signaling. These findings suggest that an OT-based mechanism selectively stimulates a region-specific BDNF response which is dependent on the type of experience.
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Hodges TE, Puri TA, Blankers SA, Qiu W, Galea LAM. Steroid hormones and hippocampal neurogenesis in the adult mammalian brain. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2021; 118:129-170. [PMID: 35180925 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2021.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Hippocampal neurogenesis persists across the lifespan in many species, including rodents and humans, and is associated with cognitive performance and the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disease and psychiatric disorders. Neurogenesis is modulated by steroid hormones that change across development and differ between the sexes in rodents and humans. Here, we discuss the effects of stress and glucocorticoid exposure from gestation to adulthood as well as the effects of androgens and estrogens in adulthood on neurogenesis in the hippocampus. Throughout the review we highlight sex differences in the effects of steroid hormones on neurogenesis and how they may relate to hippocampal function and disease. These data highlight the importance of examining age and sex when evaluating the effects of steroid hormones on hippocampal neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis E Hodges
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Tanvi A Puri
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Samantha A Blankers
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Wansu Qiu
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Liisa A M Galea
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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Obermueller B, Castellani C, Till H, Reininger-Gutmann B, Singer G. An examination of nest-building behaviour using five different nesting materials in C57BL/6J and BALB/c mice. Anim Welf 2021. [DOI: 10.7120/09627286.30.4.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The aim of our study was to assess the nest-building behaviour of two mouse (Mus musculus) strains using different nesting materials and examine possible sex- and housing-specific effects. Adult mice of two strains (C57BL/6J; n = 64 and BALB/cAnNCrl; n = 99) were randomly allocated
to the following housing groups: single-housed male, single-housed female, pair-housed male and pair-housed female. One of the following nest-building materials was placed in each home-cage in a random order: nestlets (Plexx BV, The Netherlands), cocoons (Carfil, Belgium), wooden wool, crinklets
and compact (all three, Safe, Germany). The following day, nests were rated applying a nest-scoring scale ranging from 0 to 10, the nests were removed, and a different nest-building material provided. In both tested strains, nestlets achieved the highest nest-building scores when compared
to the other four nest-building materials. All nest-building materials scored higher in BALB/c mice compared to C57BL/6J animals reaching statistical significance in crinklets only. Sex comparison revealed that female C57BL/6J mice only scored significantly higher using crinklets than males
and BALB/c female mice were rated significantly higher using wooden wool, cocoons and compact than their male counterparts. While pair-housed C57BL/6J animals built higher-rated nests than single-housed mice in the C57BL/6J strain in all five materials tested, the scores were not significantly
different in the BALB/c strain. Results of the present study reveal significant strain-, sex- and housing-related influences on the complexity of nests using different standardised building materials. Such observations need to be taken into account when planning the optimal enrichment programme
for laboratory animals.
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Sekeres MJ, Bradley-Garcia M, Martinez-Canabal A, Winocur G. Chemotherapy-Induced Cognitive Impairment and Hippocampal Neurogenesis: A Review of Physiological Mechanisms and Interventions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12697. [PMID: 34884513 PMCID: PMC8657487 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A wide range of cognitive deficits, including memory loss associated with hippocampal dysfunction, have been widely reported in cancer survivors who received chemotherapy. Changes in both white matter and gray matter volume have been observed following chemotherapy treatment, with reduced volume in the medial temporal lobe thought to be due in part to reductions in hippocampal neurogenesis. Pre-clinical rodent models confirm that common chemotherapeutic agents used to treat various forms of non-CNS cancers reduce rates of hippocampal neurogenesis and impair performance on hippocampally-mediated learning and memory tasks. We review the pre-clinical rodent literature to identify how various chemotherapeutic drugs affect hippocampal neurogenesis and induce cognitive impairment. We also review factors such as physical exercise and environmental stimulation that may protect against chemotherapy-induced neurogenic suppression and hippocampal neurotoxicity. Finally, we review pharmacological interventions that target the hippocampus and are designed to prevent or reduce the cognitive and neurotoxic side effects of chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alonso Martinez-Canabal
- Cell Biology Department, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Gordon Winocur
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Center, Toronto, ON M6A 2E1, Canada;
- Department of Psychology, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G3, Canada
- Department of Psychology, Trent University, Peterborough, ON K9J 7B8, Canada
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Scabia G, Testa G, Scali M, Del Turco S, Desiato G, Berardi N, Sale A, Matteoli M, Maffei L, Maffei M, Mainardi M. Reduced ccl11/eotaxin mediates the beneficial effects of environmental stimulation on the aged hippocampus. Brain Behav Immun 2021; 98:234-244. [PMID: 34418501 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.08.222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
A deterioration in cognitive performance accompanies brain aging, even in the absence of neurodegenerative pathologies. However, the rate of cognitive decline can be slowed down by enhanced cognitive and sensorimotor stimulation protocols, such as environmental enrichment (EE). Understanding how EE exerts its beneficial effects on the aged brain pathophysiology can help in identifying new therapeutic targets. In this regard, the inflammatory chemokine ccl11/eotaxin-1 is a marker of aging with a strong relevance for neurodegenerative processes. Here, we demonstrate that EE in both elderly humans and aged mice decreases circulating levels of ccl11. Interfering, in mice, with the ccl11 decrease induced by EE ablated the beneficial effects on long-term memory retention, hippocampal neurogenesis, activation of local microglia and of ribosomal protein S6. On the other hand, treatment of standard-reared aged mice with an anti-ccl11 antibody resulted in EE-like improvements in spatial memory, hippocampal neurogenesis, and microglial activation. Taken together, our findings point to a decrease in circulating ccl11 concentration as a key mediator of the enhanced hippocampal function resulting from exposure to EE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Scabia
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council (IFC-CNR), Pisa, Italy; Obesity and Lipodystrophies Center at Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giovanna Testa
- Laboratory of Biology "Bio@SNS", Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
| | - Manuela Scali
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Serena Del Turco
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council (IFC-CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Genni Desiato
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Milan, Italy; Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Berardi
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Pisa, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, NEUROFARBA University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandro Sale
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Michela Matteoli
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Milan, Italy; Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Lamberto Maffei
- Laboratory of Biology "Bio@SNS", Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy; Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Margherita Maffei
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council (IFC-CNR), Pisa, Italy; Obesity and Lipodystrophies Center at Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Marco Mainardi
- Laboratory of Biology "Bio@SNS", Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy; Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Pisa, Italy.
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49
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Voluntary Exercise Increases Neurogenesis and Mediates Forgetting of Complex Paired Associates Memories. Neuroscience 2021; 475:1-9. [PMID: 34464663 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2021.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The hippocampus is a critical structure involved in many forms of learning and memory. It is also one of the only regions in the mammalian brain that continues to generate new neurons throughout adulthood. This process of adult neurogenesis may increase the plasticity of the hippocampus which could be beneficial for learning but has also been demonstrated to decrease the stability of previously acquired memories. Here we test whether exposure to voluntary running (which increases the production of new neurons) following the formation of a gradually acquired paired associates task will result in forgetting of this type of memory. We trained mice in a touchscreen-based object/location task and then increased neurogenesis using voluntary running. Our results indicate that running increased neurogenesis and resulted in poor recall of the previously established memory. When subsequently exposed to a reversal task we also show that running reduced the number of correction trials required to acquire the new task contingencies. This suggests that prior forgetting reduces perseveration on the now outdated memory. Together our results add to a growing body of literature which indicates the important role of adult neurogenesis in destabilizing previously acquired memories to allow for flexible encoding of new memories.
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50
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Westacott LJ, Haan N, Evison C, Marei O, Hall J, Hughes TR, Zaben M, Morgan BP, Humby T, Wilkinson LS, Gray WP. Dissociable effects of complement C3 and C3aR on survival and morphology of adult born hippocampal neurons, pattern separation, and cognitive flexibility in male mice. Brain Behav Immun 2021; 98:136-150. [PMID: 34403734 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.08.215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) is a form of ongoing plasticity in the brain that supports specific aspects of cognition. Disruptions in AHN have been observed in neuropsychiatric conditions presenting with inflammatory components and are associated with impairments in cognition and mood. Recent evidence highlights important roles of the complement system in synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis during neurodevelopment and in acute learning and memory processes. In this work we investigated the impact of the complement C3/C3aR pathway on AHN and its functional implications for AHN-related behaviours. In C3-/- mice, we found increased numbers and accelerated migration of adult born granule cells, indicating that absence of C3 leads to abnormal survival and distribution of adult born neurons. Loss of either C3 or C3aR affected the morphology of immature neurons, reducing morphological complexity, though these effects were more pronounced in the absence of C3aR. We assessed functional impacts of the cellular phenotypes in an operant spatial discrimination task that assayed AHN sensitive behaviours. Again, we observed differences in the effects of manipulating C3 or C3aR, in that whilst C3aR-/- mice showed evidence of enhanced pattern separation abilities, C3-/- mice instead demonstrated impaired behavioural flexibility. Our findings show that C3 and C3aR manipulation have distinct effects on AHN that impact at different stages in the development and maturation of newly born neurons, and that the dissociable cellular phenotypes are associated with specific alterations in AHN-related behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura J Westacott
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetic and Genomics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; Hodge Centre for Neuropsychiatric Immunology, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Niels Haan
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetic and Genomics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; Hodge Centre for Neuropsychiatric Immunology, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Claudia Evison
- National Centre for Mental Health, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Omar Marei
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetic and Genomics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Jeremy Hall
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetic and Genomics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; Hodge Centre for Neuropsychiatric Immunology, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Timothy R Hughes
- Complement Biology Group, Systems Immunity Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, CF14 4XW Cardiff, UK
| | - Malik Zaben
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetic and Genomics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; Brain Repair and Intracranial Neurotherapeutics (BRAIN), Biomedical Research Unit, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - B Paul Morgan
- Complement Biology Group, Systems Immunity Research Institute, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, CF14 4XW Cardiff, UK; Hodge Centre for Neuropsychiatric Immunology, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; UK Dementia Research Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Trevor Humby
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetic and Genomics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; Behavioural Genetics Group, Schools of Psychology and Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK; Hodge Centre for Neuropsychiatric Immunology, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Lawrence S Wilkinson
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetic and Genomics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; Behavioural Genetics Group, Schools of Psychology and Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK; Hodge Centre for Neuropsychiatric Immunology, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - William P Gray
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Research Institute, MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetic and Genomics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; Hodge Centre for Neuropsychiatric Immunology, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; Brain Repair and Intracranial Neurotherapeutics (BRAIN), Biomedical Research Unit, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, CF24 4HQ, UK.
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