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Kaminskaya YP, Ilchibaeva TV, Shcherbakova AI, Allayarova ER, Popova NK, Naumenko VS, Tsybko AS. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in the Frontal Cortex Enhances Social Interest in the BTBR Mouse Model of Autism. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2024; 89:1509-1518. [PMID: 39245458 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297924080091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024]
Abstract
A large body of evidence implies the involvement of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). A deficiency of BDNF in the hippocampus and frontal cortex of BTBR mice (a model of autism) has been noted in a number of studies. Earlier, we showed that induction of BDNF overexpression in the hippocampus of BTBR mice reduced anxiety and severity of stereotyped behavior, but did not affect social interest. Here, we induced BDNF overexpression in the frontal cortex neurons of BTBR mice using an adeno-associated viral vector, which resulted in a significant increase in the social interest in the three-chamber social test. At the same time, the stereotypy, exploratory behavior, anxiety-like behavior, and novel object recognition were not affected. Therefore, we have shown for the first time that the presence of BDNF in the frontal cortex is critical for the expression of social interest in BTBR mice, since compensation for its deficiency in this structure eliminated the autism-like deficiencies in the social behavior characteristic for these animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yana P Kaminskaya
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - Tatiana V Ilchibaeva
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - Alexandra I Shcherbakova
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - Elina R Allayarova
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - Nina K Popova
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - Vladimir S Naumenko
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - Anton S Tsybko
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia.
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Kim H, Kim E. Genetic background determines synaptic phenotypes in Arid1b-mutant mice. Front Psychiatry 2024; 14:1341348. [PMID: 38516548 PMCID: PMC10954804 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1341348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
ARID1B, a chromatin remodeler, is strongly implicated in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Two previous studies on Arid1b-mutant mice with the same exon 5 deletion in different genetic backgrounds revealed distinct synaptic phenotypes underlying the behavioral abnormalities: The first paper reported decreased inhibitory synaptic transmission in layer 5 pyramidal neurons in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) region of the heterozygous Arid1b-mutant (Arid1b+/-) brain without changes in excitatory synaptic transmission. In the second paper, in contrast, we did not observe any inhibitory synaptic change in layer 5 mPFC pyramidal neurons, but instead saw decreased excitatory synaptic transmission in layer 2/3 mPFC pyramidal neurons without any inhibitory synaptic change. In the present report, we show that when we changed the genetic background of Arid1b+/- mice from C57BL/6 N to C57BL/6 J, to mimic the mutant mice of the first paper, we observed both the decreased inhibitory synaptic transmission in layer 5 mPFC pyramidal neurons reported in the first paper, and the decreased excitatory synaptic transmission in mPFC layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons reported in the second paper. These results suggest that genetic background can be a key determinant of the inhibitory synaptic phenotype in Arid1b-mutant mice while having minimal effects on the excitatory synaptic phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyosang Kim
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunjoon Kim
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technolgoy (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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3
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Zong W, Lu X, Dong G, Zhang L, Li K. Molecular mechanisms of exercise intervention in alleviating the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder: Targeting the structural alterations of synapse. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1096503. [PMID: 37065903 PMCID: PMC10102432 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1096503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex and heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by stereotyped behaviors, specific interests, and impaired social and communication skills. Synapses are fundamental structures for transmitting information between neurons. It has been reported that synaptic deficits, such as the increased or decreased density of synapses, may contribute to the onset of ASD, which affects the synaptic function and neuronal circuits. Therefore, targeting the recovery of the synaptic normal structure and function may be a promising therapeutic strategy to alleviate ASD symptoms. Exercise intervention has been shown to regulate the structural plasticity of synapses and improve ASD symptoms, but the underlying molecular mechanisms require further exploration. In this review, we highlight the characteristics of synaptic structural alterations in the context of ASD and the beneficial effects of an exercise intervention on improving ASD symptoms. Finally, we explore the possible molecular mechanisms of improving ASD symptoms through exercise intervention from the perspective of regulating synaptic structural plasticity, which contributes to further optimizing the related strategies of exercise intervention promoting ASD rehabilitation in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Zong
- School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Department of Sports, Quzhou University, Quzhou, China
- College of Sports and Health, Shandong Sport University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaowen Lu
- Department of Sports, Quzhou University, Quzhou, China
| | - Guijun Dong
- Department of Sports, Quzhou University, Quzhou, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Guangdong-HongKong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kefeng Li
- Department of Medicine, Quzhou College of Technology, Quzhou, China
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On the role of serotonin 5-HT 1A receptor in autistic-like behavior: сross talk of 5-HT and BDNF systems. Behav Brain Res 2023; 438:114168. [PMID: 36280010 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2022.114168] [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: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are some of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders; however, the mechanisms underlying ASDs are still poorly understood. Serotonin (5-HT) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are known as key players in brain and behavioral plasticity and interact with each other. 5-HT1A receptor is a principal regulator of the brain 5-HT system, which modulates normal and pathological behavior. Here we investigated effects of adeno-associated-virus-based 5-HT1A receptor overexpression in the hippocampus of BTBR mice (which are a model of autism) on various types of behavior and on the expression of 5-HT7 receptor, proBDNF, mature BDNF, and BDNF receptors (TrkB and p75NTR). The 5-HT1A receptor overexpression in BTBR mice reduced stereotyped behavior in the marble-burying test and extended the time spent in the center in the open field test. Meanwhile, this overexpression failed to affect social behavior in the three-chambered test, immobility time in the tail suspension test, locomotor activity in the open field test, and associative learning within the "operant wall" paradigm. The 5-HT1A receptor overexpression in the hippocampus raised hippocampal 5-HT7 receptor mRNA and protein levels. Additionally, the 5-HT1A receptor overexpression lowered both mRNA and protein levels of TrkB receptor but failed to affect proBDNF, mature BDNF, and p75NTR receptor expression in the hippocampus of BTBR mice. Thus, obtained results suggest the involvement of the 5-HT and BDNF systems' interaction mediated by 5-HT1A and TrkB receptors in the mechanisms underlying autistic-like behavior in BTBR mice.
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Bove M, Schiavone S, Tucci P, Sikora V, Dimonte S, Colia AL, Morgese MG, Trabace L. Ketamine administration in early postnatal life as a tool for mimicking Autism Spectrum Disorders core symptoms. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 117:110560. [PMID: 35460811 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2022.110560] [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: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) core symptoms include deficits of social interaction, stereotyped behaviours, dysfunction in language and communication. Beyond them, several additional symptoms, such as cognitive impairment, anxiety-like states and hyperactivity are often occurring, mainly overlapping with other neuropsychiatric diseases. To untangle mechanisms underlying ASD etiology, and to identify possible pharmacological approaches, different factors, such as environmental, immunological and genetic ones, need to be considered. In this context, ASD animal models, aiming to reproduce the wide range of behavioural phenotypes of this uniquely human disorder, represent a very useful tool. Ketamine administration in early postnatal life of mice has already been studied as a suitable animal model resembling psychotic-like symptoms. Here, we investigated whether ketamine administration, at postnatal days 7, 9 and 11, might induce behavioural features able to mimic ASD typical symptoms in adult mice. To this aim, we developed a 4-days behavioural tests battery, including Marble Burying, Hole Board, Olfactory and Social tests, to assess repetitive and stereotyped behaviour, social deficits and anxiety-like symptoms. Moreover, by using this mouse model, we performed neurochemical and biomolecular analyses, quantifying neurotransmitters belonging to excitatory-inhibitory pathways, such as glutamate, glutamine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), as well as immune activation biomarkers related to ASD, such as CD11b and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), in the hippocampus and amygdala. Possible alterations in levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in the hippocampus and amygdala were also evaluated. Our results showed an increase in stereotyped behaviours, together with social impairments and anxiety-like behaviour in adult mice, receiving ketamine administration in early postnatal life. In addition, we found decreased BDNF and enhanced GFAP hippocampal expression levels, accompanied by elevations in glutamate amount, as well as reduction in GABA content in amygdala and hippocampus. In conclusion, early ketamine administration may represent a suitable animal model of ASD, exhibiting face validity to mimic specific ASD symptoms, such as social deficits, repetitive repertoire and anxiety-like behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Bove
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Stefania Schiavone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Paolo Tucci
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Vladyslav Sikora
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy; Department of Pathology, Sumy State University, Sumy, Ukraine
| | - Stefania Dimonte
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Anna Laura Colia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Morgese
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Luigia Trabace
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy.
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Qi C, Chen A, Mao H, Hu E, Ge J, Ma G, Ren K, Xue Q, Wang W, Wu S. Excitatory and Inhibitory Synaptic Imbalance Caused by Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Deficits During Development in a Valproic Acid Mouse Model of Autism. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:860275. [PMID: 35465089 PMCID: PMC9019547 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.860275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental factors, such as medication during pregnancy, are one of the major causes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Valproic acid (VPA) intake during pregnancy has been reported to dramatically elevate autism risk in offspring. Recently, researchers have proposed that VPA exposure could induce excitatory or inhibitory synaptic dysfunction. However, it remains to be determined whether and how alterations in the excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) balance contribute to VPA-induced ASD in a mouse model. In the present study, we explored changes in the E/I balance during different developmental periods in a VPA mouse model. We found that typical markers of pre- and postsynaptic excitatory and inhibitory function involved in E/I balance markedly decreased during development, reflecting difficulties in the development of synaptic plasticity in VPA-exposed mice. The expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a neurotrophin that promotes the formation and maturation of glutamatergic and GABAergic synapses during postnatal development, was severely reduced in the VPA-exposed group. Treatment with exogenous BDNF during the critical E/I imbalance period rescued synaptic functions and autism-like behaviors, such as social defects. With these results, we experimentally showed that social dysfunction in the VPA mouse model of autism might be caused by E/I imbalance stemming from BDNF deficits during the developmental stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuchu Qi
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Andi Chen
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Honghui Mao
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Erling Hu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Junye Ge
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Center for Teacher Professional Ability Development, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an, China
| | - Guaiguai Ma
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Yan’an University, Yan’an, China
| | - Keke Ren
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Qian Xue
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Wenting Wang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Wenting Wang,
| | - Shengxi Wu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Shengxi Wu,
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7
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Fu Y, Zhou Y, Zhang YL, Zhao B, Zhang XL, Zhang WT, Lu YJ, Lu A, Zhang J, Zhang J. Loss of neurodevelopmental-associated miR-592 impairs neurogenesis and causes social interaction deficits. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:292. [PMID: 35365601 PMCID: PMC8976077 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04721-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
microRNA-592 (miR-592) has been linked to neurogenesis, but the influence of miR-592 knockout in vivo remains unknown. Here, we report that miR-592 knockout represses IPC-to-mature neuron transition, impairs motor coordination and reduces social interaction. Combining the RNA-seq and tandem mass tagging-based quantitative proteomics analysis (TMT protein quantification) and luciferase reporter assays, we identified MeCP2 as the direct targetgene of miR-592 in the mouse cortex. In Tg(MECP2) mice, lipofection of miR-592 efficiently reduced MECP2 expression in the brains of Tg(MECP2) mice at E14.5. Furthermore, treatment with miR-592 partially ameliorated the autism-like phenotypes observed in adult Tg(MECP2) mice. The findings demonstrate that miR-592 might play a novel role in treating the neurodevelopmental-associated disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Fu
- Research Centre for Translational Medicine at East Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, 200010, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Orthopaedic Department of Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 200065, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan-Lin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Orthopaedic Department of Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 200065, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Zhao
- Research Centre for Translational Medicine at East Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, 200010, Shanghai, China
| | - Xing-Liao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Orthopaedic Department of Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 200065, Shanghai, China
| | - Wan-Ting Zhang
- Research Centre for Translational Medicine at East Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, 200010, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-Jun Lu
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Orthopaedic Department of Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 200065, Shanghai, China
| | - Aiping Lu
- Research Centre for Translational Medicine at East Hospital, School of Life Science and Technology, Tongji University, 200010, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Orthopaedic Department of Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 200065, Shanghai, China.
- Research Centre for Translational Medicine at East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 200010, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Institute of Stem Cell Research and Clinical Translation, 200092, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Orthopaedic Department of Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 200065, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Institute of Stem Cell Research and Clinical Translation, 200092, Shanghai, China.
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Dremencov E, Jezova D, Barak S, Gaburjakova J, Gaburjakova M, Kutna V, Ovsepian SV. Trophic factors as potential therapies for treatment of major mental disorders. Neurosci Lett 2021; 764:136194. [PMID: 34433100 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Notwithstanding major advances in psychotherapeutics, their efficacy and specificity remain limited. The slow onset of beneficial outcomes and numerous adverse effects of widely used medications remain of chief concern, warranting in-depth studies. The majority of frontline therapies are thought to enhance the endogenous monoaminergic drive, to initiate a cascade of molecular events leading to lasting functional and structural plasticity. They also involve alterations in trophic factor signalling, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), VGF (non-acronymic), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), and others. In several major mental disorders, emerging data suggest protective and restorative effects of trophic factors in preclinical models, when applied on their own. Antidepressant outcomes of VGF and FGF2, for instance, were shown in experimental animals, while BDNF and GDNF prove useful in the treatment of addiction, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorders. The main challenge with the effective translation of these and other findings in the clinic is the knowledge gap in action mechanisms with potential risks, as well as the lack of effective platforms for validation under clinical settings. Herein, we review the state-of-the-art and advances in the therapeutic use of trophic factors in several major neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliyahu Dremencov
- Institute of Molecular Physiology and Genetics, Center of Biosciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Daniela Jezova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Segev Barak
- School of Psychological Sciences and the Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Jana Gaburjakova
- Institute of Molecular Physiology and Genetics, Center of Biosciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Marta Gaburjakova
- Institute of Molecular Physiology and Genetics, Center of Biosciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Viera Kutna
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Saak V Ovsepian
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, 250 67 Klecany, Czech Republic
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9
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Murasawa H, Kobayashi H, Imai J, Nagase T, Soumiya H, Fukumitsu H. Substantial acetylcholine reduction in multiple brain regions of Mecp2-deficient female rats and associated behavioral abnormalities. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258830. [PMID: 34673817 PMCID: PMC8530288 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with X-linked dominant inheritance caused mainly by mutations in the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene. The effects of various Mecp2 mutations have been extensively assessed in mouse models, but none adequately mimic the symptoms and pathological changes of RTT. In this study, we assessed the effects of Mecp2 gene deletion on female rats (Mecp2+/−) and found severe impairments in social behavior [at 8 weeks (w), 12 w, and 23 w of age], motor function [at 16 w and 26 w], and spatial cognition [at 29 w] as well as lower plasma insulin-like growth factor (but not brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and markedly reduced acetylcholine (30%–50%) in multiple brain regions compared to female Mecp2+/+ rats [at 29 w]. Alternatively, changes in brain monoamine levels were relatively small, in contrast to reports on mouse Mecp2 mutants. Female Mecp2-deficient rats express phenotypes resembling RTT and so may provide a robust model for future research on RTT pathobiology and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyasu Murasawa
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biofunctional Analysis, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
- Hashima Laboratory, Nihon Bioresearch Inc, Gifu, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kobayashi
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biofunctional Analysis, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
- Hashima Laboratory, Nihon Bioresearch Inc, Gifu, Japan
| | - Jun Imai
- Hashima Laboratory, Nihon Bioresearch Inc, Gifu, Japan
| | | | - Hitomi Soumiya
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biofunctional Analysis, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Hidefumi Fukumitsu
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biofunctional Analysis, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
- * E-mail:
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10
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Bicker F, Nardi L, Maier J, Vasic V, Schmeisser MJ. Criss-crossing autism spectrum disorder and adult neurogenesis. J Neurochem 2021; 159:452-478. [PMID: 34478569 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comprises a group of multifactorial neurodevelopmental disorders primarily characterized by deficits in social interaction and repetitive behavior. Although the onset is typically in early childhood, ASD poses a lifelong challenge for both patients and caretakers. Adult neurogenesis (AN) is the process by which new functional neurons are created from neural stem cells existing in the post-natal brain. The entire event is based on a sequence of cellular processes, such as proliferation, specification of cell fate, maturation, and ultimately, synaptic integration into the existing neural circuits. Hence, AN is implicated in structural and functional brain plasticity throughout life. Accumulating evidence shows that impaired AN may underlie some of the abnormal behavioral phenotypes seen in ASD. In this review, we approach the interconnections between the molecular pathways related to AN and ASD. We also discuss existing therapeutic approaches targeting such pathways both in preclinical and clinical studies. A deeper understanding of how ASD and AN reciprocally affect one another could reveal important converging pathways leading to the emergence of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Bicker
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Leonardo Nardi
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jannik Maier
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Verica Vasic
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael J Schmeisser
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany.,Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
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11
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Eckert P, Marchetta P, Manthey MK, Walter MH, Jovanovic S, Savitska D, Singer W, Jacob MH, Rüttiger L, Schimmang T, Milenkovic I, Pilz PKD, Knipper M. Deletion of BDNF in Pax2 Lineage-Derived Interneuron Precursors in the Hindbrain Hampers the Proportion of Excitation/Inhibition, Learning, and Behavior. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:642679. [PMID: 33841098 PMCID: PMC8033028 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.642679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies indicate that deficits in the proper integration or migration of specific GABAergic precursor cells from the subpallium to the cortex can lead to severe cognitive dysfunctions and neurodevelopmental pathogenesis linked to intellectual disabilities. A different set of GABAergic precursors cells that express Pax2 migrate to hindbrain regions, targeting, for example auditory or somatosensory brainstem regions. We demonstrate that the absence of BDNF in Pax2-lineage descendants of BdnfPax2KOs causes severe cognitive disabilities. In BdnfPax2KOs, a normal number of parvalbumin-positive interneurons (PV-INs) was found in the auditory cortex (AC) and hippocampal regions, which went hand in hand with reduced PV-labeling in neuropil domains and elevated activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (Arc/Arg3.1; here: Arc) levels in pyramidal neurons in these same regions. This immaturity in the inhibitory/excitatory balance of the AC and hippocampus was accompanied by elevated LTP, reduced (sound-induced) LTP/LTD adjustment, impaired learning, elevated anxiety, and deficits in social behavior, overall representing an autistic-like phenotype. Reduced tonic inhibitory strength and elevated spontaneous firing rates in dorsal cochlear nucleus (DCN) brainstem neurons in otherwise nearly normal hearing BdnfPax2KOs suggests that diminished fine-grained auditory-specific brainstem activity has hampered activity-driven integration of inhibitory networks of the AC in functional (hippocampal) circuits. This leads to an inability to scale hippocampal post-synapses during LTP/LTD plasticity. BDNF in Pax2-lineage descendants in lower brain regions should thus be considered as a novel candidate for contributing to the development of brain disorders, including autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Eckert
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Philine Marchetta
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marie K Manthey
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Michael H Walter
- Department for Animal Physiology, Institute of Neurobiology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sasa Jovanovic
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Daria Savitska
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Wibke Singer
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Michele H Jacob
- Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lukas Rüttiger
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Schimmang
- Instituto de Biología y Genética Molecular, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Ivan Milenkovic
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Peter K D Pilz
- Department for Animal Physiology, Institute of Neurobiology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marlies Knipper
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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12
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Molecular, physiological and behavioral characterization of the heterozygous Df[h15q13]/+ mouse model associated with the human 15q13.3 microdeletion syndrome. Brain Res 2020; 1746:147024. [PMID: 32712126 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2020.147024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The human 15q13.3 microdeletion syndrome (DS) is caused by a heterozygous microdeletion (MD) affecting six genes: FAN1; MTMR10; TRPM1; KLF13; OTUD7A; and CHRNA7. Carriers are at risk for intellectual disability, epilepsy, autism spectrum disorder, and schizophrenia. Here we used the Df[h15q13]/+ mouse model with an orthologous deletion to further characterize molecular, neurophysiological, and behavioral parameters that are relevant to the 15q13.3 DS. First, we verified the expression and distribution of the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR), a gene product of the CHRNA7, in cortical and subcortical areas. Results revealed similar mRNA distribution pattern in wildtype (WT) and heterozygous (Het) mice, with about half the number of α7 nAChR binding sites in mutants. Hippocampal recordings showed similar input/output responses of field excitatory post-synaptic potentials and theta-burst induced long-term potentiation in WT and Het mice. Het males exhibited impaired spatial learning acquisition in the Barnes Maze. Indicative of increased seizure susceptibility, Het mice developed secondary seizures after 6-Hz corneal stimulation, and had significantly increased sensitivity to the chemoconvulsant pentylenetetrazol resulting in increased spiking in hippocampal EEG recordings. Basal mRNA expression of brain derived neurotrophic factor and activity regulated immediate early genes (c-fos, Arc, Erg-1 and Npas4) during adolescence, a critical period of brain maturation, was unaffected by genotype. Thus, the MD did not show gross neuroanatomical, molecular, and neurophysiological abnormalities despite deficits in spatial learning and increased susceptibility to seizures. Altogether, our results verify the phenotypic profile of the heterozygous Df[h15q13]/+ mouse model and underscore its translational relevance for human 15q13.3 DS.
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13
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Bonnycastle K, Davenport EC, Cousin MA. Presynaptic dysfunction in neurodevelopmental disorders: Insights from the synaptic vesicle life cycle. J Neurochem 2020; 157:179-207. [PMID: 32378740 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The activity-dependent fusion, retrieval and recycling of synaptic vesicles is essential for the maintenance of neurotransmission. Until relatively recently it was believed that most mutations in genes that were essential for this process would be incompatible with life, because of this fundamental role. However, an ever-expanding number of mutations in this very cohort of genes are being identified in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism, intellectual disability and epilepsy. This article will summarize the current state of knowledge linking mutations in presynaptic genes to neurodevelopmental disorders by sequentially covering the various stages of the synaptic vesicle life cycle. It will also discuss how perturbations of specific stages within this recycling process could translate into human disease. Finally, it will also provide perspectives on the potential for future therapy that are targeted to presynaptic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Bonnycastle
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Muir Maxwell Epilepsy Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Elizabeth C Davenport
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Muir Maxwell Epilepsy Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Michael A Cousin
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Muir Maxwell Epilepsy Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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14
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Sultana R, Shrestha A, Lee CC, Ogundele OM. Disc1 Carrier Mice Exhibit Alterations in Neural pIGF-1Rβ and Related Kinase Expression. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:94. [PMID: 32431597 PMCID: PMC7214624 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.00094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutation of the disc1 gene underlies a broad range of developmental neuropsychiatric defects, including schizophrenia, depression, and bipolar disorder. The pathophysiological phenotypes linked with disc1 mutation are due to the truncation of the DISC1 primary protein structure. This leads to a defective post-synaptic scaffolding and kinase—GSK3β and Erk1/2—signaling. As a result, synaptic function and maintenance are significantly impaired in the disc1 mutant brain. Among several other pathways, GSK3β and Erk1/2 are involved in insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1Rβ) kinase signaling. Although disc1 mutation alters these kinases, it is unclear if the mutation impacts IGF-1R expression and activity in the brain. Here, we demonstrate that the expression of active IGF-1Rβ (pIGF-1Rβ) is altered in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC) of disc1 mutant mice and vary with the dose of the mutation (homozygous and heterozygous). The expression of pIGF-1Rβ decreased significantly in 129S (hom, disc1−/−) brains. In contrast, 129S:B6 (het, disc1+/−) brains were characterized by an increase in pIGF-1Rβ when compared with the C57BL/6 (disc1+/+) level. The decrease in pIGF-1Rβ level for the 129S brains was accompanied by the loss of Akt activity (S473 pAkt) and decreased Ser9 phosphorylation of GSK3β (increased basal GSK3β). Additionally, hippocampal and cortical pErk1/2 activity increased in the 129S hippocampus and cortex. Although 129S:B6 recorded alterations in pIGF-1Rβ-pAkt-GSK3β (like 129S), there was no observable change in pErk1/2 activity for the heterozygote (disc1+/−) mutant. In addition to GSK3β inhibition, we conclude that pIGF-1R, pAkt, and pErk1/2 are potential targets in disc1−/− mutant brain. On the other hand, pIGF-1R and pAkt can be further explored in disc1+/− brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razia Sultana
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - Amita Shrestha
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - Charles C Lee
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - Olalekan M Ogundele
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
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15
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Hodges SL, Nolan SO, Tomac LA, Muhammad IDA, Binder MS, Taube JH, Lugo JN. Lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation leads to acute elevations in pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in a mouse model of Fragile X syndrome. Physiol Behav 2019; 215:112776. [PMID: 31838149 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2019.112776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a single genetic mutation in the Fmr1 gene, serving as the largest genetic cause of intellectual disability. Trinucleotide expansion mutations in Fmr1 result in silencing and hypermethylation of the gene, preventing synthesis of the RNA binding protein Fragile X mental retardation protein which functions as a translational repressor. Abnormal immune responses have been demonstrated to play a role in FXS pathophysiology, however, whether these alterations impact how those with FXS respond to an immune insult behaviorally is not entirely known. In the current study, we examine how Fmr1 knockout (KO) and wild type (WT) mice respond to the innate immune stimulus lipopolysaccharide (LPS), both on a molecular and behavioral level, to determine if Fmr1 mutations impact the normal physiological response to an immune insult. In response to LPS, Fmr1 KO mice had elevated hippocampal IL-1β and IL-6 mRNA levels 4 h post-treatment compared to WT mice, with no differences detected in any cytokines at baseline or between genotypes 24 h post-LPS administration. Fmr1 KO mice also had upregulated hippocampal BDNF gene expression 4 h post-treatment compared to WT mice, which was not dependent on LPS administration. There were no differences in hippocampal protein expression between genotypes in microglia (Iba1) or astrocyte (GFAP) reactivity. Further, both genotypes displayed the typical sickness response following LPS stimulation, demonstrated by a significant reduction in food burrowed by LPS-treated mice in a burrowing task. Additional investigation is critical to determine if the transient increases in cytokine expression could lead to long-term changes in downstream molecular signaling in FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha L Hodges
- Institute of Biomedical Studies, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798, USA
| | - Suzanne O Nolan
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, One Bear Place # 97334, Waco, TX 76798, USA
| | - Lindsay A Tomac
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, One Bear Place # 97334, Waco, TX 76798, USA
| | - Ilyasah D A Muhammad
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, One Bear Place # 97334, Waco, TX 76798, USA
| | - Matthew S Binder
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, One Bear Place # 97334, Waco, TX 76798, USA
| | - Joseph H Taube
- Institute of Biomedical Studies, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798, USA; Department of Biology, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798, USA
| | - Joaquin N Lugo
- Institute of Biomedical Studies, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798, USA; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, One Bear Place # 97334, Waco, TX 76798, USA; Department of Biology, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798, USA.
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16
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Pisu MG, Boero G, Garau A, Casula C, Cisci S, Biggio F, Concas A, Follesa P, Maciocco E, Porcu P, Serra M. Are preconceptional stressful experiences crucial elements for the aetiology of autism spectrum disorder? Insights from an animal model. Neuropharmacology 2019; 157:107686. [PMID: 31247268 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.107686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by changes in social interactions, impaired language and communication, fear responses and presence of repetitive behaviours. Although the genetic bases of ASD are well documented, the recent increase in clinical cases of idiopathic ASD indicates that several environmental risk factors could play a role in ASD aetiology. Among these, maternal exposure to psychosocial stressors during pregnancy has been hypothesized to affect the risk for ASD in offspring. Here, we tested the hypothesis that preconceptional stressful experiences might also represent crucial elements in the aetiology of ASD. We previously showed that social isolation stress during adolescence results in a marked decrease in the brain and plasma concentrations of progesterone and in the quality of maternal care that these female rats later provide to their young. Here we report that male offspring of socially isolated parents showed decreased agonistic behaviour and social transmission of flavour preference, impairment in reversal learning, increased seizure susceptibility, reduced plasma oxytocin levels, and increased plasma and brain levels of BDNF, all features resembling an ASD-like phenotype. These alterations came with no change in spatial learning, aggression, anxiety and testosterone plasma levels, and were sex-dependent. Altogether, the results suggest that preconceptional stressful experiences should be considered as crucial elements for the aetiology of ASD, and indicate that male offspring of socially isolated parents may be a useful animal model to further study the neurobiological bases of ASD, avoiding the adaptations that may occur in other genetic or pharmacologic experimental models of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giorgia Boero
- Department of Psychiatry and Pharmacology, Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Anna Garau
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences and Center of Excellence for Neurobiology of Dependence, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Claudia Casula
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences and Center of Excellence for Neurobiology of Dependence, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sonia Cisci
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences and Center of Excellence for Neurobiology of Dependence, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Francesca Biggio
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences and Center of Excellence for Neurobiology of Dependence, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Center of Excellence for Neurobiology of Dependence, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Concas
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences and Center of Excellence for Neurobiology of Dependence, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Center of Excellence for Neurobiology of Dependence, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Paolo Follesa
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences and Center of Excellence for Neurobiology of Dependence, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Center of Excellence for Neurobiology of Dependence, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Maciocco
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Patrizia Porcu
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mariangela Serra
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences and Center of Excellence for Neurobiology of Dependence, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; Center of Excellence for Neurobiology of Dependence, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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17
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Ogundele OM, Pardo J, Francis J, Goya RG, Lee CC. A Putative Mechanism of Age-Related Synaptic Dysfunction Based on the Impact of IGF-1 Receptor Signaling on Synaptic CaMKIIα Phosphorylation. Front Neuroanat 2018; 12:35. [PMID: 29867375 PMCID: PMC5960681 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2018.00035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) signaling regulates the activity and phosphorylation of downstream kinases linked to inflammation, neurodevelopment, aging and synaptic function. In addition to the control of Ca2+ currents, IGF-1R signaling modulates the activity of calcium-calmodulin-dependent kinase 2 alpha (CaMKIIα) and mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK/ErK) through multiple signaling pathways. These proteins (CaMKIIα and MAPK) regulate Ca2+ movement and long-term potentiation (LTP). Since IGF-1R controls the synaptic activity of Ca2+, CaMKIIα and MAPK signaling, the possible mechanism through which an age-dependent change in IGF-1R can alter the synaptic expression and phosphorylation of these proteins in aging needs to be investigated. In this study, we evaluated the relationship between an age-dependent change in brain IGF-1R and phosphorylation of CaMKIIα/MAPK. Furthermore, we elucidated possible mechanisms through which dysregulated CaMKIIα/MAPK interaction may be linked to a change in neurotransmitter processing and synaptic function. Male C57BL/6 VGAT-Venus mice at postnatal days 80 (P80), 365 and 730 were used to study age-related neural changes in two brain regions associated with cognitive function: hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC). By means of high throughput confocal imaging and quantitative immunoblotting, we evaluated the distribution and expression of IGF-1, IGF-1R, CaMKIIα, p-CaMKIIα, MAPK and p-MAPK in whole brain lysate, hippocampus and cortex. Furthermore, we compared protein expression patterns and regional changes at P80, P365 and P730. Ultimately, we determined the relative phosphorylation pattern of CaMKIIα and MAPK through quantification of neural p-CaMKIIα and p-MAPK/ErK, and IGF-1R expression for P80, P365 and P730 brain samples. In addition to a change in synaptic function, our results show a decrease in neural IGF-1/IGF-1R expression in whole brain, hippocampus and cortex of aged mice. This was associated with a significant upregulation of phosphorylated neural MAPK (p-MAPK) and decrease in total brain CaMKIIα (i.e., CaMKIIα and p-CaMKIIα) in the aged brain. Taken together, we showed that brain aging is associated with a change in neural IGF-1/IGF-1R expression and may be linked to a change in phosphorylation of synaptic kinases (CaMKIIα and MAPK) that are involved in the modulation of LTP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olalekan M. Ogundele
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - Joaquin Pardo
- Institute for Biochemical Research of La Plata, School of Medicine, National University of La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Joseph Francis
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - Rodolfo G. Goya
- Institute for Biochemical Research of La Plata, School of Medicine, National University of La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Charles C. Lee
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
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18
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Sultana R, Ghandi T, M. Davila A, Lee CC, Ogundele OM. Upregulated SK2 Expression and Impaired CaMKII Phosphorylation Are Shared Synaptic Defects Between 16p11.2del and 129S: Δdisc1 Mutant Mice. ASN Neuro 2018; 10:1759091418817641. [PMID: 33592687 PMCID: PMC6295693 DOI: 10.1177/1759091418817641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Ion channel gating and kinase regulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor 1 activity are fundamental mechanisms that govern synaptic plasticity. In this study, we showed that two mutant models (16p11.2del and Δdisc1 ) that recapitulate aspects of human cognitive disorders shared a similar defect in N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor 1-dependent synaptic function. Our results demonstrate that the expression of small-conductance potassium channels (SK2 or KCa2.2) was significantly upregulated in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of 16p11.2del and 129S:Δdisc1 mutant mice. Likewise, both mutant strains exhibited an impairment of T286 phosphorylation of calcium-calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII) in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. In vivo neural recordings revealed that increased SK2 expression and impaired T286 phosphorylation of CaMKII coincide with a prolonged interspike interval in the hippocampal cornu ammonis-1 (CA1) field for both 16p11.2del and 129S:Δdisc1 mutant mice. These findings suggest that alteration of small conductance channels and T286 phosphorylation of CaMKII are likely shared factors underlying behavioral changes in these two genetic mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razia Sultana
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Louisiana State
University School of Veterinary Medicine, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Tanya Ghandi
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Louisiana State
University School of Veterinary Medicine, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Alexandra M. Davila
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Louisiana State
University School of Veterinary Medicine, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Charles C. Lee
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Louisiana State
University School of Veterinary Medicine, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Olalekan M. Ogundele
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Louisiana State
University School of Veterinary Medicine, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
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