1
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Bonosi L, Benigno UE, Musso S, Giardina K, Gerardi RM, Brunasso L, Costanzo R, Paolini F, Buscemi F, Avallone C, Gulino V, Iacopino DG, Maugeri R. The Role of Aquaporins in Epileptogenesis-A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11923. [PMID: 37569297 PMCID: PMC10418736 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241511923] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Aquaporins (AQPs) are a family of membrane proteins involved in the transport of water and ions across cell membranes. AQPs have been shown to be implicated in various physiological and pathological processes in the brain, including water homeostasis, cell migration, and inflammation, among others. Epileptogenesis is a complex and multifactorial process that involves alterations in the structure and function of neuronal networks. Recent evidence suggests that AQPs may also play a role in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. In animal models of epilepsy, AQPs have been shown to be upregulated in regions of the brain that are involved in seizure generation, suggesting that they may contribute to the hyperexcitability of neuronal networks. Moreover, genetic studies have identified mutations in AQP genes associated with an increased risk of developing epilepsy. Our review aims to investigate the role of AQPs in epilepsy and seizure onset from a pathophysiological point of view, pointing out the potential molecular mechanism and their clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Rosario Maugeri
- Neurosurgical Clinic, AOUP “Paolo Giaccone”, Post Graduate Residency Program in Neurologic Surgery, Department of Biomedicine Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (L.B.); (U.E.B.); (S.M.); (K.G.); (R.M.G.); (L.B.); (R.C.); (F.P.); (F.B.); (C.A.); (V.G.); (D.G.I.)
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2
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Yan H, Wang Y, Huo F, Yin C. Fast-Specific Fluorescent Probes to Visualize Norepinephrine Signaling Pathways and Its Flux in the Epileptic Mice Brain. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:3229-3237. [PMID: 36701205 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c13223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Norepinephrine (NE) is synthesized in the locus coeruleus and widely projected throughout the brain and spinal cord. It regulates various actions and consciousness linked to a variety of neurological diseases. A "hunting-shooting" strategy was proposed in this work to improve the specificity and response rate of an NE fluorescent probe: 2-(cyclohex-2-en-1-ylidene)malononitrile derivatives were chosen as a fluorophore. To create a dual-site probe, an aldehyde group was added to the ortho of the ester group (or benzene sulfonate). Because of its excellent electrophilic activity, the aldehyde group could rapidly "hunt" the amino group and then form an intramolecular five-membered ring via the nucleophilic reaction with the β-hydroxyl group. The -NH- in the five-membered ring "shoots" the adjacent ester group, releasing the fluorophore and allowing for rapid and specific NE detection. The NE release and reuptake ″emetic″-″swallow″ transient process is captured and visualized under the action of the primary NE receptor drug. Furthermore, by introducing halogen into the fluorophore to lengthen the absorption wavelength, improve lipid solubility, and adjust the pKa appropriately, the probe successfully penetrated the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In situ synchronous probe imaging was used to detect the NE level in the brains of epileptic and normal mice, and abnormal expression of NE in the brain was discovered during epilepsy. Brain anatomy was used to examine the distribution and level changes of NE in various brain regions before and after epilepsy. This research provides useful tools and a theoretical foundation for diagnosing and treating central nervous system diseases early.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huming Yan
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage of Shanxi Province, Institute of Molecular Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Yuting Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage of Shanxi Province, Institute of Molecular Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Fangjun Huo
- Research Institute of Applied Chemistry, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
| | - Caixia Yin
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage of Shanxi Province, Institute of Molecular Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030006, China
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3
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Cho FS, Vainchtein ID, Voskobiynyk Y, Morningstar AR, Aparicio F, Higashikubo B, Ciesielska A, Broekaart DWM, Anink JJ, van Vliet EA, Yu X, Khakh BS, Aronica E, Molofsky AV, Paz JT. Enhancing GAT-3 in thalamic astrocytes promotes resilience to brain injury in rodents. Sci Transl Med 2022; 14:eabj4310. [PMID: 35857628 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abj4310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Inflammatory processes induced by brain injury are important for recovery; however, when uncontrolled, inflammation can be deleterious, likely explaining why most anti-inflammatory treatments have failed to improve neurological outcomes after brain injury in clinical trials. In the thalamus, chronic activation of glial cells, a proxy of inflammation, has been suggested as an indicator of increased seizure risk and cognitive deficits that develop after cortical injury. Furthermore, lesions in the thalamus, more than other brain regions, have been reported in patients with viral infections associated with neurological deficits, such as SARS-CoV-2. However, the extent to which thalamic inflammation is a driver or by-product of neurological deficits remains unknown. Here, we found that thalamic inflammation in mice was sufficient to phenocopy the cellular and circuit hyperexcitability, enhanced seizure risk, and disruptions in cortical rhythms that develop after cortical injury. In our model, down-regulation of the GABA transporter GAT-3 in thalamic astrocytes mediated this neurological dysfunction. In addition, GAT-3 was decreased in regions of thalamic reactive astrocytes in mouse models of cortical injury. Enhancing GAT-3 in thalamic astrocytes prevented seizure risk, restored cortical states, and was protective against severe chemoconvulsant-induced seizures and mortality in a mouse model of traumatic brain injury, emphasizing the potential of therapeutically targeting this pathway. Together, our results identified a potential therapeutic target for reducing negative outcomes after brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances S Cho
- Gladstone Institute of Neurological Disease, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Ilia D Vainchtein
- Department of Psychiatry/Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Yuliya Voskobiynyk
- Gladstone Institute of Neurological Disease, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | | | - Francisco Aparicio
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Bryan Higashikubo
- Gladstone Institute of Neurological Disease, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | | | - Diede W M Broekaart
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam 1105 AZ, Netherlands
| | - Jasper J Anink
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam 1105 AZ, Netherlands
| | - Erwin A van Vliet
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam 1105 AZ, Netherlands.,Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1098 XH, Netherlands
| | - Xinzhu Yu
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.,Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Baljit S Khakh
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.,Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam 1105 AZ, Netherlands.,Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede 2103 SW, Netherlands
| | - Anna V Molofsky
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Department of Psychiatry/Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Jeanne T Paz
- Gladstone Institute of Neurological Disease, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
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4
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Cable DM, Murray E, Zou LS, Goeva A, Macosko EZ, Chen F, Irizarry RA. Robust decomposition of cell type mixtures in spatial transcriptomics. Nat Biotechnol 2022; 40:517-526. [PMID: 33603203 PMCID: PMC8606190 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-021-00830-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 371] [Impact Index Per Article: 185.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A limitation of spatial transcriptomics technologies is that individual measurements may contain contributions from multiple cells, hindering the discovery of cell-type-specific spatial patterns of localization and expression. Here, we develop robust cell type decomposition (RCTD), a computational method that leverages cell type profiles learned from single-cell RNA-seq to decompose cell type mixtures while correcting for differences across sequencing technologies. We demonstrate the ability of RCTD to detect mixtures and identify cell types on simulated datasets. Furthermore, RCTD accurately reproduces known cell type and subtype localization patterns in Slide-seq and Visium datasets of the mouse brain. Finally, we show how RCTD's recovery of cell type localization enables the discovery of genes within a cell type whose expression depends on spatial environment. Spatial mapping of cell types with RCTD enables the spatial components of cellular identity to be defined, uncovering new principles of cellular organization in biological tissue. RCTD is publicly available as an open-source R package at https://github.com/dmcable/RCTD .
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan M. Cable
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, MIT, Cambridge, MA, 02139,Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, 02142,Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215
| | - Evan Murray
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, 02142
| | - Luli S. Zou
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, 02142,Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215,Department of Biostatistics, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115
| | | | - Evan Z. Macosko
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, 02142,Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114
| | - Fei Chen
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, 02142,Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge MA 02138
| | - Rafael A. Irizarry
- Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215,Department of Biostatistics, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115
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5
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Aldabbagh Y, Islam A, Zhang W, Whiting P, Ali AB. Alzheimer’s Disease Enhanced Tonic Inhibition is Correlated With Upregulated Astrocyte GABA Transporter-3/4 in a Knock-In APP Mouse Model. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:822499. [PMID: 35185574 PMCID: PMC8850407 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.822499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive decline is a major symptom in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), which is strongly associated with synaptic excitatory-inhibitory imbalance. Here, we investigated whether astrocyte-specific GABA transporter 3/4 (GAT3/4) is altered in APP knock-in mouse model of AD and whether this is correlated with changes in principal cell excitability. Using the APPNL-F/NL-F knock-in mouse model of AD, aged-matched to wild-type mice, we performed in vitro electrophysiological whole-cell recordings combined with immunohistochemistry in the CA1 and dentate gyrus (DG) regions of the hippocampus. We observed a higher expression of GAD67, an enzyme that catalyses GABA production, and GAT3/4 in reactive astrocytes labelled with GFAP, which correlated with an enhanced tonic inhibition in the CA1 and DG of 12–16 month-old APPNL-F/NL-F mice compared to the age-matched wild-type animals. Comparative neuroanatomy experiments performed using post-mortem brain tissue from human AD patients, age-matched to healthy controls, mirrored the results obtained using mice tissue. Blocking GAT3/4 associated tonic inhibition recorded in CA1 and DG principal cells resulted in an increased membrane input resistance, enhanced firing frequency and synaptic excitation in both wild-type and APPNL-F/NL-F mice. These effects exacerbated synaptic hyperactivity reported previously in the APPNL-F/NL-F mice model. Our data suggest that an alteration in astrocyte GABA homeostasis is correlated with increased tonic inhibition in the hippocampus, which probably plays an important compensatory role in restoring AD-associated synaptic hyperactivity. Therefore, reducing tonic inhibition through GAT3/4 may not be a good therapeutic strategy for AD
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anam Islam
- UCL School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Paul Whiting
- Alzheimer’s Research UK Drug Discovery Institute, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Afia B. Ali
- UCL School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Afia B. Ali,
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6
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Pasieka A, Panek D, Jończyk J, Godyń J, Szałaj N, Latacz G, Tabor J, Mezeiova E, Chantegreil F, Dias J, Knez D, Lu J, Pi R, Korabecny J, Brazzolotto X, Gobec S, Höfner G, Wanner K, Więckowska A, Malawska B. Discovery of multifunctional anti-Alzheimer's agents with a unique mechanism of action including inhibition of the enzyme butyrylcholinesterase and γ-aminobutyric acid transporters. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 218:113397. [PMID: 33838585 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113397] [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: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Looking for an effective anti-Alzheimer's agent is very challenging; however, a multifunctional ligand strategy may be a promising solution for the treatment of this complex disease. We herein present the design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel hydroxyethylamine derivatives displaying unique, multiple properties that have not been previously reported. The original mechanism of action combines inhibitory activity against disease-modifying targets: β-secretase enzyme (BACE1) and amyloid β (Aβ) aggregation, along with an effect on targets associated with symptom relief - inhibition of butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) and γ-aminobutyric acid transporters (GATs). Among the obtained molecules, compound 36 exhibited the most balanced and broad activity profile (eeAChE IC50 = 2.86 μM; eqBuChE IC50 = 60 nM; hBuChE IC50 = 20 nM; hBACE1 IC50 = 5.9 μM; inhibition of Aβ aggregation = 57.9% at 10 μM; mGAT1 IC50 = 10.96 μM; and mGAT2 IC50 = 19.05 μM). Moreover, we also identified 31 as the most potent mGAT4 and hGAT3 inhibitor (IC50 = 5.01 μM and IC50 = 2.95 μM, respectively), with high selectivity over other subtypes. Compounds 36 and 31 represent new anti-Alzheimer agents that can ameliorate cognitive decline and modify the progress of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Pasieka
- Department of Physicochemical Drug Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688, Kraków, Poland
| | - Dawid Panek
- Department of Physicochemical Drug Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688, Kraków, Poland
| | - Jakub Jończyk
- Department of Physicochemical Drug Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688, Kraków, Poland
| | - Justyna Godyń
- Department of Physicochemical Drug Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688, Kraków, Poland
| | - Natalia Szałaj
- Department of Physicochemical Drug Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688, Kraków, Poland
| | - Gniewomir Latacz
- Department of Technology and Biotechnology of Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688, Kraków, Poland
| | - Julia Tabor
- Department of Physicochemical Drug Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688, Kraków, Poland
| | - Eva Mezeiova
- Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Sokolska 581, 500 05, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Fabien Chantegreil
- Département de Toxicologie et Risques Chimiques, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91223, Brétigny sur Orge, France
| | - José Dias
- Département de Toxicologie et Risques Chimiques, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91223, Brétigny sur Orge, France
| | - Damijan Knez
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Junfeng Lu
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Rongbiao Pi
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jan Korabecny
- Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Sokolska 581, 500 05, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Xavier Brazzolotto
- Département de Toxicologie et Risques Chimiques, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91223, Brétigny sur Orge, France
| | - Stanislav Gobec
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Georg Höfner
- Department of Pharmacy - Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Butenandtstr, 5-13, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Klaus Wanner
- Department of Pharmacy - Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Butenandtstr, 5-13, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Anna Więckowska
- Department of Physicochemical Drug Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688, Kraków, Poland
| | - Barbara Malawska
- Department of Physicochemical Drug Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Medyczna 9, 30-688, Kraków, Poland.
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7
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Sills GJ, Rogawski MA. Mechanisms of action of currently used antiseizure drugs. Neuropharmacology 2020; 168:107966. [PMID: 32120063 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.107966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 241] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Antiseizure drugs (ASDs) prevent the occurrence of seizures; there is no evidence that they have disease-modifying properties. In the more than 160 years that orally administered ASDs have been available for epilepsy therapy, most agents entering clinical practice were either discovered serendipitously or with the use of animal seizure models. The ASDs originating from these approaches act on brain excitability mechanisms to interfere with the generation and spread of epileptic hyperexcitability, but they do not address the specific defects that are pathogenic in the epilepsies for which they are prescribed, which in most cases are not well understood. There are four broad classes of such ASD mechanisms: (1) modulation of voltage-gated sodium channels (e.g. phenytoin, carbamazepine, lamotrigine), voltage-gated calcium channels (e.g. ethosuximide), and voltage-gated potassium channels [e.g. retigabine (ezogabine)]; (2) enhancement of GABA-mediated inhibitory neurotransmission (e.g. benzodiazepines, tiagabine, vigabatrin); (3) attenuation of glutamate-mediated excitatory neurotransmission (e.g. perampanel); and (4) modulation of neurotransmitter release via a presynaptic action (e.g. levetiracetam, brivaracetam, gabapentin, pregabalin). In the past two decades there has been great progress in identifying the pathophysiological mechanisms of many genetic epilepsies. Given this new understanding, attempts are being made to engineer specific small molecule, antisense and gene therapies that functionally reverse or structurally correct pathogenic defects in epilepsy syndromes. In the near future, these new therapies will begin a paradigm shift in the treatment of some rare genetic epilepsy syndromes, but targeted therapies will remain elusive for the vast majority of epilepsies until their causes are identified. This article is part of the special issue entitled 'New Epilepsy Therapies for the 21st Century - From Antiseizure Drugs to Prevention, Modification and Cure of Epilepsy'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graeme J Sills
- School of Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
| | - Michael A Rogawski
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
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8
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Nikolic L, Nobili P, Shen W, Audinat E. Role of astrocyte purinergic signaling in epilepsy. Glia 2019; 68:1677-1691. [DOI: 10.1002/glia.23747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ljiljana Nikolic
- Institute for Biological Research Siniša Stanković, University of Belgrade Serbia
| | | | - Weida Shen
- Zhejiang University City College Zhejiang Hangzhou China
| | - Etienne Audinat
- Institute for Functional Genomics (IGF), University of Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM Montpellier France
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9
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Héja L, Simon Á, Szabó Z, Kardos J. Feedback adaptation of synaptic excitability via Glu:Na + symport driven astrocytic GABA and Gln release. Neuropharmacology 2019; 161:107629. [PMID: 31103619 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 03/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Glutamatergic transmission composed of the arriving of action potential at the axon terminal, fast vesicular Glu release, postsynaptic Glu receptor activation, astrocytic Glu clearance and Glu→Gln shuttle is an abundantly investigated phenomenon. Despite its essential role, however, much less is known about the consequences of the mechanistic connotations of Glu:Na+ symport. Due to the coupled Na+ transport, Glu uptake results in significantly elevated intracellular astrocytic [Na+] that markedly alters the driving force of other Na+-coupled astrocytic transporters. The resulting GABA and Gln release by reverse transport through the respective GAT-3 and SNAT3 transporters help to re-establish the physiological Na+ homeostasis without ATP dissipation and consequently leads to enhanced tonic inhibition and replenishment of axonal glutamate pool. Here, we place this emerging astrocytic adjustment of synaptic excitability into the centre of future perspectives. This article is part of the issue entitled 'Special Issue on Neurotransmitter Transporters'.
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Affiliation(s)
- László Héja
- Functional Pharmacology Research Group, Institute of Organic Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Magyar tudósok körútja 2, 1117, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ágnes Simon
- Functional Pharmacology Research Group, Institute of Organic Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Magyar tudósok körútja 2, 1117, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Szabó
- Functional Pharmacology Research Group, Institute of Organic Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Magyar tudósok körútja 2, 1117, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Julianna Kardos
- Functional Pharmacology Research Group, Institute of Organic Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Magyar tudósok körútja 2, 1117, Budapest, Hungary.
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10
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Souza DG, Almeida RF, Souza DO, Zimmer ER. The astrocyte biochemistry. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2019; 95:142-150. [PMID: 30951895 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2019.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are a unique and dynamic subtype of glial cells in the central nervous system (CNS). Understanding their biochemical reactions and their influence in the surrounding cells is extremely important in the neuroscience field. They exert important influence in the neurotransmission, ionic homeostasis and also release neuroactive molecules termed gliotransmitters. Additionally, they metabolize, store and release metabolic substrates to meet high brain energy requirements. In this review, we highlight the main biochemical reactions regarding energy metabolism that take place in astrocytes. Special attention is given to synthesis, storage and catabolism of glucose, release of lactate, oxidation of fatty acids, production of ketone bodies, and metabolism of the main neurotransmitters, glutamate and GABA. The recent findings allow proposing these cells as key players controlling the energetic homeostasis in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Débora G Souza
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Roberto F Almeida
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Exact and Biological Sciences Institute, Biological Sciences Department, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Brazil
| | - Diogo O Souza
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Department of Biochemistry, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Eduardo R Zimmer
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil; Department of Pharmacology, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Pharmacology and Therapeutics, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Brain Institute of Rio Grande do Sul (BraIns), Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
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11
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Vargas-Sánchez K, Mogilevskaya M, Rodríguez-Pérez J, Rubiano MG, Javela JJ, González-Reyes RE. Astroglial role in the pathophysiology of status epilepticus: an overview. Oncotarget 2018; 9:26954-26976. [PMID: 29928494 PMCID: PMC6003549 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.25485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Status epilepticus is a medical emergency with elevated morbidity and mortality rates, and represents a leading cause of epilepsy-related deaths. Though status epilepticus can occur at any age, it manifests more likely in children and elderly people. Despite the common prevalence of epileptic disorders, a complete explanation for the mechanisms leading to development of self-limited or long lasting seizures (as in status epilepticus) are still lacking. Apart from neurons, research evidence suggests the involvement of immune and glial cells in epileptogenesis. Among glial cells, astrocytes represent an ideal target for the study of the pathophysiology of status epilepticus, due to their key role in homeostatic balance of the central nervous system. During status epilepticus, astroglial cells are activated by the presence of cytokines, damage associated molecular patterns and reactive oxygen species. The persistent activation of astrocytes leads to a decrease in glutamate clearance with a corresponding accumulation in the synaptic extracellular space, increasing the chance of neuronal excitotoxicity. Moreover, major alterations in astrocytic gap junction coupling, inflammation and receptor expression, facilitate the generation of seizures. Astrocytes are also involved in dysregulation of inhibitory transmission in the central nervous system and directly participate in ionic homeostatic alterations during status epilepticus. In the present review, we focus on the functional and structural changes in astrocytic activity that participate in the development and maintenance of status epilepticus, with special attention on concurrent inflammatory alterations. We also include potential astrocytic treatment targets for status epilepticus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Vargas-Sánchez
- Biomedical Sciences Research Group, School of Medicine, Universidad Antonio Nariño, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - John Rodríguez-Pérez
- Biomedical Sciences Research Group, School of Medicine, Universidad Antonio Nariño, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - María G Rubiano
- Biomedical Sciences Research Group, School of Medicine, Universidad Antonio Nariño, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - José J Javela
- Grupo de Clínica y Salud Mental, Programa de Psicología, Universidad Católica de Pereira, Pereira, Colombia
| | - Rodrigo E González-Reyes
- Universidad del Rosario, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, GI en Neurociencias-NeURos, Bogotá, Colombia
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12
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Impaired expression of GABA transporters in the human Alzheimer’s disease hippocampus, subiculum, entorhinal cortex and superior temporal gyrus. Neuroscience 2017; 351:108-118. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2017.03.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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13
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Dossi E, Vasile F, Rouach N. Human astrocytes in the diseased brain. Brain Res Bull 2017; 136:139-156. [PMID: 28212850 PMCID: PMC5766741 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2017.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Revised: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are key active elements of the brain that contribute to information processing. They not only provide neurons with metabolic and structural support, but also regulate neurogenesis and brain wiring. Furthermore, astrocytes modulate synaptic activity and plasticity in part by controlling the extracellular space volume, as well as ion and neurotransmitter homeostasis. These findings, together with the discovery that human astrocytes display contrasting characteristics with their rodent counterparts, point to a role for astrocytes in higher cognitive functions. Dysfunction of astrocytes can thereby induce major alterations in neuronal functions, contributing to the pathogenesis of several brain disorders. In this review we summarize the current knowledge on the structural and functional alterations occurring in astrocytes from the human brain in pathological conditions such as epilepsy, primary tumours, Alzheimer's disease, major depressive disorder and Down syndrome. Compelling evidence thus shows that dysregulations of astrocyte functions and interplay with neurons contribute to the development and progression of various neurological diseases. Targeting astrocytes is thus a promising alternative approach that could contribute to the development of novel and effective therapies to treat brain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Dossi
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiopathology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris, France.
| | - Flora Vasile
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiopathology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris, France.
| | - Nathalie Rouach
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiopathology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris, France.
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14
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Glial GABA Transporters as Modulators of Inhibitory Signalling in Epilepsy and Stroke. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2017; 16:137-167. [PMID: 28828609 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-55769-4_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Imbalances in GABA-mediated tonic inhibition are involved in several pathophysiological conditions. A classical way of controlling tonic inhibition is through pharmacological intervention with extrasynaptic GABAA receptors that sense ambient GABA and mediate a persistent GABAergic conductance. An increase in tonic inhibition may, however, also be obtained indirectly by inhibiting glial GABA transporters (GATs). These are sodium-coupled membrane transport proteins that normally act to terminate GABA neurotransmitter action by taking up GABA into surrounding astrocytes. The aim of the review is to provide an overview of glial GATs in regulating tonic inhibition, especially in epilepsy and stroke. This entails a comprehensive summary of changes known to occur in GAT expression levels and signalling following epileptic and ischemic insults. Further, we discuss the accumulating pharmacological evidence for targeting GATs in these diseases.
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15
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Albrecht A, Ivens S, Papageorgiou IE, Çalışkan G, Saiepour N, Brück W, Richter-Levin G, Heinemann U, Stork O. Shifts in excitatory/inhibitory balance by juvenile stress: A role for neuron-astrocyte interaction in the dentate gyrus. Glia 2016; 64:911-22. [PMID: 26875694 DOI: 10.1002/glia.22970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Revised: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Childhood trauma is a well-described risk factor for the development of stress-related psychopathology such as posttraumatic stress disorder or depression later in life. Childhood adversity can be modeled in rodents by juvenile stress (JS) protocols, resulting in impaired coping with stressful challenges in adulthood. In the current study, we investigated the long-lasting impact of JS on the expression of molecular factors for glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) uptake and turnover in sublayers of the dentate gyrus (DG) using laser microdissection and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. We observed reduced mRNA expression levels after JS for factors mediating astrocytic glutamate and GABA uptake and degradation. These alterations were prominently observed in the dorsal but not ventral DG granule cell layer, indicating a lasting change in astrocytic GABA and glutamate metabolism that may affect dorsal DG network activity. Indeed, we observed increased inhibition and a lack of facilitation in response to paired-pulse stimulation at short interstimulus intervals in the dorsal DG after JS, while no alterations were evident in basal synaptic transmission or forms of long-term plasticity. The shift in paired-pulse response was mimicked by pharmacologically blocking the astrocytic GABA transporter GAT-3 in naïve animals. Accordingly, reduced expression levels of GAT-3 were confirmed at the protein level in the dorsal granule cell layer of rats stressed in juvenility. Together, these data demonstrate a lasting shift in the excitatory/inhibitory balance of dorsal DG network activity by JS that appears to be mediated by decreased GABA uptake into astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Albrecht
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.,The Institute for the Study of Affective Neuroscience (ISAN), Haifa, Israel.,Institute of Biology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Ivens
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Neuroscience Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ismini E Papageorgiou
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Gürsel Çalışkan
- Institute of Biology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.,Neuroscience Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nasrin Saiepour
- Institute of Neuropathology, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Brück
- Institute of Neuropathology, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Gal Richter-Levin
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.,The Institute for the Study of Affective Neuroscience (ISAN), Haifa, Israel.,Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Uwe Heinemann
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Oliver Stork
- Institute of Biology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Universitätsplatz 2, Germany
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16
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Kirischuk S, Héja L, Kardos J, Billups B. Astrocyte sodium signaling and the regulation of neurotransmission. Glia 2015; 64:1655-66. [DOI: 10.1002/glia.22943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/28/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sergei Kirischuk
- University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Institute of Physiology; Mainz Germany
| | - László Héja
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Hungarian Academy of Sciences; Budapest Hungary
| | - Julianna Kardos
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Hungarian Academy of Sciences; Budapest Hungary
| | - Brian Billups
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University; Acton ACT Australia
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Computational dissection of human episodic memory reveals mental process-specific genetic profiles. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:E4939-48. [PMID: 26261317 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1500860112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Episodic memory performance is the result of distinct mental processes, such as learning, memory maintenance, and emotional modulation of memory strength. Such processes can be effectively dissociated using computational models. Here we performed gene set enrichment analyses of model parameters estimated from the episodic memory performance of 1,765 healthy young adults. We report robust and replicated associations of the amine compound SLC (solute-carrier) transporters gene set with the learning rate, of the collagen formation and transmembrane receptor protein tyrosine kinase activity gene sets with the modulation of memory strength by negative emotional arousal, and of the L1 cell adhesion molecule (L1CAM) interactions gene set with the repetition-based memory improvement. Furthermore, in a large functional MRI sample of 795 subjects we found that the association between L1CAM interactions and memory maintenance revealed large clusters of differences in brain activity in frontal cortical areas. Our findings provide converging evidence that distinct genetic profiles underlie specific mental processes of human episodic memory. They also provide empirical support to previous theoretical and neurobiological studies linking specific neuromodulators to the learning rate and linking neural cell adhesion molecules to memory maintenance. Furthermore, our study suggests additional memory-related genetic pathways, which may contribute to a better understanding of the neurobiology of human memory.
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Schijns O, Karaca Ü, Andrade P, de Nijs L, Küsters B, Peeters A, Dings J, Pannek H, Ebner A, Rijkers K, Hoogland G. Hippocampal GABA transporter distribution in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy and hippocampal sclerosis. J Chem Neuroanat 2015. [PMID: 26212582 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2015.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine hippocampal expression of neuronal GABA-transporter (GAT-1) and glial GABA-transporter (GAT-3) in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and hippocampal sclerosis (HS). METHODS Hippocampal sections were immunohistochemically stained for GABA-transporter 1 and GABA-transporter-3, followed by quantification of the immunoreactivity in the hilus by optical density measurements. GABA-transporter 3 positive hilar cells were counted and GABA-transporter protein expression in sections that included all hippocampal subfields was quantified by Western blot. RESULTS The hilar GABA-transporter 1 expression of patients with severe hippocampal sclerosis was about 7% lower compared to that in the mild hippocampal sclerosis/control group (p<0.001). The hilar GABA-transporter 3 expression was about 5% lower in the severe hippocampal sclerosis group than in the mild hippocampal sclerosis/control group (non-significant). Also, severe hippocampal sclerosis samples contained 34% less (non-significant) GABA-transporter 3 positive cells compared to that of controls. Protein expression as assessed by Western blot showed that GABA-transporter 1 was equally expressed in mild and severe hippocampal sclerosis samples, whereas GABA-transporter 3 was reduced by about 62% in severe hippocampal sclerosis samples (p<0.0001). CONCLUSION These data confirm that GABA-transporter expression is spatially and isoform-specific reduced and GABA-transporter 3 positive cell numbers are unchanged in hippocampal sclerosis. Implications for the use of GABAergic antiepileptic therapies in hippocampal sclerosis vs non-hippocampal sclerosis patients remain to be studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olaf Schijns
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, The Netherlands.
| | - Ümit Karaca
- Departments of School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Pablo Andrade
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, The Netherlands; Departments of School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Laurence de Nijs
- Departments of School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Benno Küsters
- Departments of Pathology, Maastricht University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea Peeters
- Departments of Clinical Epidemiology and Medical Technology Assessment, Maastricht University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Jim Dings
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Heinz Pannek
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Epilepsy Center, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Alois Ebner
- Departments of Epileptology, Epilepsy Center, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Kim Rijkers
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Govert Hoogland
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, The Netherlands; Departments of School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Center, The Netherlands
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19
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Moreira-Filho CA, Bando SY, Bertonha FB, Iamashita P, Silva FN, Costa LDF, Silva AV, Castro LHM, Wen HT. Community structure analysis of transcriptional networks reveals distinct molecular pathways for early- and late-onset temporal lobe epilepsy with childhood febrile seizures. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0128174. [PMID: 26011637 PMCID: PMC4444281 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Age at epilepsy onset has a broad impact on brain plasticity and epilepsy pathomechanisms. Prolonged febrile seizures in early childhood (FS) constitute an initial precipitating insult (IPI) commonly associated with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE). FS-MTLE patients may have early disease onset, i.e. just after the IPI, in early childhood, or late-onset, ranging from mid-adolescence to early adult life. The mechanisms governing early (E) or late (L) disease onset are largely unknown. In order to unveil the molecular pathways underlying E and L subtypes of FS-MTLE we investigated global gene expression in hippocampal CA3 explants of FS-MTLE patients submitted to hippocampectomy. Gene coexpression networks (GCNs) were obtained for the E and L patient groups. A network-based approach for GCN analysis was employed allowing: i) the visualization and analysis of differentially expressed (DE) and complete (CO) - all valid GO annotated transcripts - GCNs for the E and L groups; ii) the study of interactions between all the system's constituents based on community detection and coarse-grained community structure methods. We found that the E-DE communities with strongest connection weights harbor highly connected genes mainly related to neural excitability and febrile seizures, whereas in L-DE communities these genes are not only involved in network excitability but also playing roles in other epilepsy-related processes. Inversely, in E-CO the strongly connected communities are related to compensatory pathways (seizure inhibition, neuronal survival and responses to stress conditions) while in L-CO these communities harbor several genes related to pro-epileptic effects, seizure-related mechanisms and vulnerability to epilepsy. These results fit the concept, based on fMRI and behavioral studies, that early onset epilepsies, although impacting more severely the hippocampus, are associated to compensatory mechanisms, while in late MTLE development the brain is less able to generate adaptive mechanisms, what has implications for epilepsy management and drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvia Yumi Bando
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Bernardi Bertonha
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Priscila Iamashita
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Luiz Henrique Martins Castro
- Department of Neurology, FMUSP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Clinical Neurology Division, Hospital das Clínicas, FMUSP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Hung-Tzu Wen
- Epilepsy Surgery Group, Hospital das Clínicas, FMUSP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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20
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Deidda G, Bozarth IF, Cancedda L. Modulation of GABAergic transmission in development and neurodevelopmental disorders: investigating physiology and pathology to gain therapeutic perspectives. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:119. [PMID: 24904277 PMCID: PMC4033255 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 04/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
During mammalian ontogenesis, the neurotransmitter GABA is a fundamental regulator of neuronal networks. In neuronal development, GABAergic signaling regulates neural proliferation, migration, differentiation, and neuronal-network wiring. In the adult, GABA orchestrates the activity of different neuronal cell-types largely interconnected, by powerfully modulating synaptic activity. GABA exerts these functions by binding to chloride-permeable ionotropic GABAA receptors and metabotropic GABAB receptors. According to its functional importance during development, GABA is implicated in a number of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, Fragile X, Rett syndrome, Down syndrome, schizophrenia, Tourette's syndrome and neurofibromatosis. The strength and polarity of GABAergic transmission is continuously modulated during physiological, but also pathological conditions. For GABAergic transmission through GABAA receptors, strength regulation is achieved by different mechanisms such as modulation of GABAA receptors themselves, variation of intracellular chloride concentration, and alteration in GABA metabolism. In the never-ending effort to find possible treatments for GABA-related neurological diseases, of great importance would be modulating GABAergic transmission in a safe and possibly physiological way, without the dangers of either silencing network activity or causing epileptic seizures. In this review, we will discuss the different ways to modulate GABAergic transmission normally at work both during physiological and pathological conditions. Our aim is to highlight new research perspectives for therapeutic treatments that reinstate natural and physiological brain functions in neuro-pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Deidda
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Genova, Italy
| | - Ignacio F Bozarth
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Genova, Italy
| | - Laura Cancedda
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Genova, Italy
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21
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DiNuzzo M, Mangia S, Maraviglia B, Giove F. Physiological bases of the K+ and the glutamate/GABA hypotheses of epilepsy. Epilepsy Res 2014; 108:995-1012. [PMID: 24818957 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2014.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Revised: 03/20/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a heterogeneous family of neurological disorders that manifest as seizures, i.e. the hypersynchronous activity of large population of neurons. About 30% of epileptic patients do not respond to currently available antiepileptic drugs. Decades of intense research have elucidated the involvement of a number of possible signaling pathways, however, at present we do not have a fundamental understanding of epileptogenesis. In this paper, we review the literature on epilepsy under a wide-angle perspective, a mandatory choice that responds to the recurrent and unanswered question about what is epiphenomenal and what is causal to the disease. While focusing on the involvement of K+ and glutamate/GABA in determining neuronal hyperexcitability, emphasis is given to astrocytic contribution to epileptogenesis, and especially to loss-of-function of astrocytic glutamine synthetase following reactive astrogliosis, a hallmark of epileptic syndromes. We finally introduce the potential involvement of abnormal glycogen synthesis induced by excess glutamate in increasing susceptibility to seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro DiNuzzo
- MARBILab, Museo storico della fisica e Centro di studi e ricerche "Enrico Fermi", Rome, Italy.
| | - Silvia Mangia
- Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Bruno Maraviglia
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy; Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Federico Giove
- MARBILab, Museo storico della fisica e Centro di studi e ricerche "Enrico Fermi", Rome, Italy; Dipartimento di Fisica, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
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22
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Li ZX, Yu HM, Jiang KW. Tonic GABA inhibition in hippocampal dentate granule cells: its regulation and function in temporal lobe epilepsies. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2013; 209:199-211. [PMID: 23865761 DOI: 10.1111/apha.12148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2013] [Revised: 05/06/2013] [Accepted: 07/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Both human and experimental evidence strongly supports the view of brain region- and cell-specific changes in tonic GABA inhibition in temporal lobe epilepsies (TLE). This 'tonic' form of signalling is not time-locked to presynaptic action potentials, which depends upon detection of ambient GABA by extrasynaptic GABAA receptors (GABAA Rs). Extrasynaptic GABAA Rs have distinct physiological and pharmacological features, including high GABA-binding affinity and low desensitization and a variety of the specific subunit combinations (α4δ-,α6δ-,α5γ-,ε-containing receptors). These features closely contribute to the function of tonic GABA current, which is preserved properly or increased in dentate gyrus in models of TLE, even in the face of a loss of synaptic inhibition and inhibitory interneurones. Markedly reduced tonic GABA inhibition may facilitate an episode of epilepsy, while persistent elevated tonic inhibition may contribute to the onset of spontaneous recurrent seizures. In dentate granule cells, tonic GABA inhibition is positively modulated by endogenous neurosteroids and other factors, which undergo changes related to hormonal status after TLE. Tonic inhibition regulates neuronal excitability through its effects on membrane potential by both offsetting the threshold and reducing the frequency of action potentials and input resistance. Therefore, extrasynaptic GABAA Rs are expected to be the most important pharmacological targets in TLE. It is likely that both elevate the ambient GABA concentration and potentiate the tonic currents, contributing to the antiepileptic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z.-X. Li
- Department of Neurology; The Children's Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine; Hangzhou; China
| | - H.-M. Yu
- Department of Neonatology; The Children's Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine; Hangzhou; China
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23
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Creevy KE, Gagnepain JF, Platt SR, Edwards GL, Kent M. Comparison of concentrations of γ-aminobutyric acid and glutamate in cerebrospinal fluid of dogs with idiopathic epilepsy with and without seizure-related magnetic resonance imaging hyperintense areas in the limbic system. Am J Vet Res 2013; 74:1118-25. [PMID: 23879850 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.74.8.1118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate differences in CSF concentrations of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters in dogs with and without T2-weighted (T2W) MRI hyperintense areas in the limbic system. SAMPLE Archived CSF samples and stored brain MRI images of 5 healthy research dogs (group 1), 8 dogs with idiopathic epilepsy (IE) with no abnormal MRI findings (group 2), and 4 dogs with IE with hyperintense areas in the limbic system detected by means of T2W MRI (group 3). PROCEDURES Archived CSF samples and stored MRI images obtained from all dogs were evaluated. Dogs in groups 2 and 3 were matched on the basis of age and breed. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to evaluate glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) concentrations in CSF samples. RESULTS Glutamate concentrations were higher in CSF of both groups of dogs with IE than in healthy dogs. However, glutamate concentrations in CSF were not significantly higher in dogs with IE and with hyperintense areas than in dogs with IE but no abnormal MRI findings. Concentrations of GABA in CSF were higher in group 3 than in group 2 and in group 2 than in group 1. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE No significant difference was evident between glutamate concentrations in CSF of dogs with IE and with and without hyperintense areas detected by means of T2W MRI. However, glutamate concentrations typically were higher in CSF of dogs with IE and MRI hyperintense areas. Future studies with larger sample sizes should be conducted to confirm this finding and to determine the clinical importance of high glutamate concentrations in CSF of dogs with IE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate E Creevy
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
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24
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Pandit S, Jeong JA, Jo JY, Cho HS, Kim DW, Kim JM, Ryu PD, Lee SY, Kim HW, Jeon BH, Park JB. Dual mechanisms diminishing tonic GABAA inhibition of dentate gyrus granule cells in Noda epileptic rats. J Neurophysiol 2013; 110:95-102. [PMID: 23576696 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00727.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The Noda epileptic rat (NER), a Wistar colony mutant, spontaneously has tonic-clonic convulsions with paroxysmal discharges. In the present study, we measured phasic and tonic γ-aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) current (I tonic) in NER hippocampal dentate gyrus granule cells and compared the results with those of normal parent strain Wistar rats (WIS). I tonic, revealed by a bicuculline-induced outward shift in holding current, was significantly smaller in NER than in WIS (P < 0.01). The frequency of inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) was also significantly lower in NER than in WIS (P < 0.05), without significant differences in the IPSC amplitude or decay time between WIS and NER. I tonic attenuation in NER was further confirmed in the presence of GABA transporter blockers, NO-711 and nipecotic acid, with no difference in neuronal GABA transporter expression between WIS and NER. I tonic responses to extrasynaptic GABAA receptor agonists (THIP and DS-2) were significantly reduced in NER compared with WIS (P < 0.05). Allopregnanolone caused less I tonic increase in NER than in WIS, while it prolonged the IPSC decay time to a similar rate in the two groups. Expression of the GABAA receptor δ-subunit was decreased in the dentate gyrus of NER relative to that of WIS. Taken together, our results showed that a combination of attenuated presynaptic GABA release and extrasynaptic GABAA receptor expression reduced I tonic amplitude and its sensitivity to neurosteroids, which likely diminishes the gating function of dentate gyrus granule cells and renders NER more susceptible to seizure propagation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudip Pandit
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine and Brain Research Institute, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
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25
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Abstract
The mammalian genome contains four genes encoding GABA transporters (GAT1, slc6a1; GAT2, slc6a13; GAT3, slc6a11; BGT1, slc6a12) and five glutamate transporter genes (EAAT1, slc1a3; EAAT2, slc1a2; EAAT3, slc1a1; EAAT4, slc1a6; EAAT5, slc1a7). These transporters keep the extracellular levels of GABA and excitatory amino acids low and provide amino acids for metabolic purposes. The various transporters have different properties both with respect to their transport functions and with respect to their ability to act as ion channels. Further, they are differentially regulated. To understand the physiological roles of the individual transporter subtypes, it is necessary to obtain information on their distributions and expression levels. Quantitative data are important as the functional capacity is limited by the number of transporter molecules. The most important and most abundant transporters for removal of transmitter glutamate in the brain are EAAT2 (GLT-1) and EAAT1 (GLAST), while GAT1 and GAT3 are the major GABA transporters in the brain. EAAT3 (EAAC1) does not appear to play a role in signal transduction, but plays other roles. Due to their high uncoupled anion conductance, EAAT4 and EAAT5 seem to be acting more like inhibitory glutamate receptors than as glutamate transporters. GAT2 and BGT1 are primarily expressed in the liver and kidney, but are also found in the leptomeninges, while the levels in brain tissue proper are too low to have any impact on GABA removal, at least in normal young adult mice. The present review will provide summary of what is currently known and will also discuss some methodological pitfalls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhou
- The Neurotransporter Group, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Niels Christian Danbolt
- The Neurotransporter Group, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- *Correspondence: Niels Christian Danbolt, The Neurotransporter Group, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1105 Blindern, Oslo N-0317, Norway e-mail:
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26
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Ferando I, Mody I. GABAAreceptor modulation by neurosteroids in models of temporal lobe epilepsies. Epilepsia 2012; 53 Suppl 9:89-101. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.12038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Yatsenko L, Pozdnyakova N, Dudarenko M, Himmelreich N. The dynamics of changes in hippocampal GABAergic system in rats exposed to early-life hypoxia-induced seizures. Neurosci Lett 2012; 524:69-73. [PMID: 22841699 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2012.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2011] [Revised: 07/02/2012] [Accepted: 07/11/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia-evoked seizures (H/S) early in life lead to multiple chronic neurological deficits. Here, we present the results of studying GABA release and uptake in hippocampal axon terminals of rats exposed to H/S at 10-12 days of age. We characterized (i) exocytotic release of GABA; (ii) the initial rate of GABA uptake; (iii) the regulation of GABA release by presynaptic GABA(B) receptors. Rats were used for experiments 2, 4 and 8 weeks after H/S. We found that exocytotic [(3)H]GABA release was higher in rats exposed to H/S, and a maximal difference in the release was observed between the control and experimental rats tested 2 weeks after H/S. In contrast, the initial rate of GABA uptake decreased with age, and this tendency was more pronounced in rats exposed to H/S. Using (±)-baclofen and SKF 97541 as agonists of GABA(B) receptor, we revealed that a significant difference in the auto-inhibition of exocytotic [(3)H]GABA release was detected only between the control and experimental adult rats (8 weeks after hypoxia). The inhibitory effect dropped dramatically in the control adults, but only slightly decreased in adult rats exposed to H/S, thus becoming threefold more potent after hypoxic injury. Together, the results show that H/S affects the dynamics of age-dependent changes in the GABAergic system, and that the enhanced GABA(B) receptor-mediated auto-inhibition can be an important factor in weakening the postsynaptic inhibition and in the development of hyperexcitability in rats exposed to H/S.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Yatsenko
- Department of Neurochemistry, Palladin Institute of Biochemistry, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Leontovich Str. 9, Kyiv 01601, Ukraine
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28
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Medina-Ceja L, Sandoval-García F, Morales-Villagrán A, López-Pérez SJ. Rapid compensatory changes in the expression of EAAT-3 and GAT-1 transporters during seizures in cells of the CA1 and dentate gyrus. J Biomed Sci 2012; 19:78. [PMID: 22931236 PMCID: PMC3438021 DOI: 10.1186/1423-0127-19-78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Accepted: 08/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy is a neurological disorder produced by an imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission, in which transporters of both glutamate and GABA have been implicated. Hence, at different times after local administration of the convulsive drug 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) we analyzed the expression of EAAT-3 and GAT-1 transporter proteins in cells of the CA1 and dentate gyrus. METHODS Dual immunofluorescence was used to detect the co-localization of transporters and a neuronal marker. In parallel, EEG recordings were performed and convulsive behavior was rated using a modified Racine Scale. RESULTS By 60 min after 4-AP injection, EAAT-3/NeuN co-labelling had increased in dentate granule cells and decreased in CA1 pyramidal cells. In the latter, this decrease persisted for up to 180 min after 4-AP administration. In both the DG and CA1, the number of GAT-1 labeled cells increased 60 min after 4-AP administration, although by 180 min GAT-1 labeled cells decreased in the DG alone. The increase in EAAT-3/NeuN colabelling in DG was correlated with maximum epileptiform activity and convulsive behavior. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that a compensatory mechanism exists to protect against acute seizures induced by 4-AP, whereby EAAT-3/NeuN cells is rapidly up regulated in order to enhance the removal of glutamate from the extrasynaptic space, and attenuating seizure activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Medina-Ceja
- Laboratorio de Neurofisiología y Neuroquímica, Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Universidad de Guadalajara, Km, 15,5 Carretera Guadalajara-Nogales Predio "Las Agujas", Nextipac, Zapopan, Jalisco CP 45110, Mexico.
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29
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Witcher MR, Ellis TL. Astroglial networks and implications for therapeutic neuromodulation of epilepsy. Front Comput Neurosci 2012; 6:61. [PMID: 22952462 PMCID: PMC3429855 DOI: 10.3389/fncom.2012.00061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2012] [Accepted: 07/30/2012] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a common chronic neurologic disorder affecting approximately 1% of the world population. More than one-third of all epilepsy patients have incompletely controlled seizures or debilitating medication side effects in spite of optimal medical management. Medically refractory epilepsy is associated with excess injury and mortality, psychosocial dysfunction, and significant cognitive impairment. Effective treatment options for these patients can be limited. The cellular mechanisms underlying seizure activity are incompletely understood, though we here describe multiple lines of evidence supporting the likely contribution of astroglia to epilepsy, with focus on individual astrocytes and their network functions. Of the emerging therapeutic modalities for epilepsy, one of the most intriguing is the field of neuromodulation. Neuromodulatory treatment, which consists of administering electrical pulses to neural tissue to modulate its activity leading to a beneficial effect, may be an option for these patients. Current modalities consist of vagal nerve stimulation, open and closed-loop stimulation, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. Due to their unique properties, we here present astrocytes as likely important targets for the developing field of neuromodulation in the treatment of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark R Witcher
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wake Forest University Winston-Salem, NC, USA
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30
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Zhou Y, Holmseth S, Guo C, Hassel B, Höfner G, Huitfeldt HS, Wanner KT, Danbolt NC. Deletion of the γ-aminobutyric acid transporter 2 (GAT2 and SLC6A13) gene in mice leads to changes in liver and brain taurine contents. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:35733-35746. [PMID: 22896705 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.368175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The GABA transporters (GAT1, GAT2, GAT3, and BGT1) have mostly been discussed in relation to their potential roles in controlling the action of transmitter GABA in the nervous system. We have generated the first mice lacking the GAT2 (slc6a13) gene. Deletion of GAT2 (both mRNA and protein) neither affected growth, fertility, nor life span under nonchallenging rearing conditions. Immunocytochemistry showed that the GAT2 protein was predominantly expressed in the plasma membranes of periportal hepatocytes and in the basolateral membranes of proximal tubules in the renal cortex. This was validated by processing tissue from wild-type and knockout mice in parallel. Deletion of GAT2 reduced liver taurine levels by 50%, without affecting the expression of the taurine transporter TAUT. These results suggest an important role for GAT2 in taurine uptake from portal blood into liver. In support of this notion, GAT2-transfected HEK293 cells transported [(3)H]taurine. Furthermore, most of the uptake of [(3)H]GABA by cultured rat hepatocytes was due to GAT2, and this uptake was inhibited by taurine. GAT2 was not detected in brain parenchyma proper, excluding a role in GABA inactivation. It was, however, expressed in the leptomeninges and in a subpopulation of brain blood vessels. Deletion of GAT2 increased brain taurine levels by 20%, suggesting a taurine-exporting role for GAT2 in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhou
- Centre of Molecular Biology and Neuroscience, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, N-0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Silvia Holmseth
- Centre of Molecular Biology and Neuroscience, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, N-0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Caiying Guo
- HHMI, Janelia Farm Research Campus, Ashburn, Virginia 20147
| | - Bjørnar Hassel
- Department for Neurohabilitation, Oslo University Hospital, N-0372 Oslo, Norway; Norwegian Defense Research Establishment, N-2027 Kjeller, Norway
| | - Georg Höfner
- Department für Pharmazie, Zentrum für Pharmaforschung, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, D-81377 München, Germany
| | - Henrik S Huitfeldt
- Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, N-0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Klaus T Wanner
- Department für Pharmazie, Zentrum für Pharmaforschung, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, D-81377 München, Germany
| | - Niels C Danbolt
- Centre of Molecular Biology and Neuroscience, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, N-0317 Oslo, Norway.
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31
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Coulter DA, Eid T. Astrocytic regulation of glutamate homeostasis in epilepsy. Glia 2012; 60:1215-26. [PMID: 22592998 PMCID: PMC3375386 DOI: 10.1002/glia.22341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 213] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2011] [Accepted: 03/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes play a critical role in regulation of extracellular neurotransmitter levels in the central nervous system. This function is particularly prominent for the excitatory amino acid glutamate, with estimates that 80-90% of extracellular glutamate uptake in brain is through astrocytic glutamate transporters. This uptake has significance both in regulation of the potential toxic accumulation of extracellular glutamate and in normal resupply of inhibitory and excitatory synapses with neurotransmitter. This resupply of neurotransmitter is accomplished by astroglial uptake of glutamate, transformation of glutamate to glutamine by the astrocytic enzyme glutamine synthetase (GS), and shuttling of glutamine back to excitatory and inhibitory neurons via specialized transporters. Once in neurons, glutamine is enzymatically converted back to glutamate, which is utilized for synaptic transmission, either directly, or following decarboxylation to γ-aminobutyric acid. Many neurologic and psychiatric conditions, particularly epilepsy, are accompanied by the development of reactive gliosis, a pathology characterized by anatomical and biochemical plasticity in astrocytes, accompanied by proliferation of these cells. Among the biochemical changes evident in reactive astrocytes is a downregulation of several of the important regulators of the glutamine-glutamate cycle, including GS, and possibly also glutamate transporters. This downregulation may have significance in contributing both to the aberrant excitability and to the altered neuropathology characterizing epilepsy. In the present review, we provide an overview of the normal function of astrocytes in regulating extracellular glutamate homeostasis, neurotransmitter supply, and excitotoxicity. We further discuss the potential role reactive gliosis may play in the pathophysiology of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A Coulter
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Tore Eid
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine and Neurosurgery, Yale University School of Medicine and the Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven, Connecticut
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32
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Abstract
Discovered more than three decades ago, vigabatrin is approved in more than 50 countries as adjunctive therapy for adult patients with refractory complex partial seizures who have responded inadequately to several alternative treatments and as monotherapy for pediatric patients aged 1 month to 2 years with infantile spasms. Contrary to a fairly common misperception, the compound's mechanism of action is very well-characterized in animal models and cell cultures. γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic synapses comprise approximately 30% of all synapses within the central nervous system, and therein underlies the primary mode of synaptic inhibition. Vigabatrin was rationally designed to have a specific effect on brain chemistry by inhibiting the GABA-degrading enzyme, GABA transaminase, resulting in a widespread increase in GABA concentrations in the brain. The increase in GABA functions as a brake on the excitatory processes that can initiate seizure activity. Despite the short half-life of vigabatrin in the body (5-7 h) and its relatively low concentration in cerebrospinal fluid (10% of the concentration observed in plasma), it has the profound effect of increasing GABA concentration in the brain for more than a week after a single dose in humans. This effect persists steadily over years of vigabatrin administration and results in significant and persistent decreases in seizure activity. Vigabatrin can be effective with once-daily dosing. Because of its specificity, vigabatrin has helped researchers explore the specific mechanisms within the brain that underlie seizure activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Ben-Menachem
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Sahlgrenska Academy, Göteborg University, Göteborg, Sweden.
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33
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Pavlov I, Walker MC. Tonic GABA(A) receptor-mediated signalling in temporal lobe epilepsy. Neuropharmacology 2012; 69:55-61. [PMID: 22538087 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2012.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2012] [Revised: 03/27/2012] [Accepted: 04/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The tonic activation of extrasynaptic GABAA receptors by extracellular GABA provides a powerful means of regulating neuronal excitability. A consistent finding from studies that have used various models of temporal lobe epilepsy is that tonic GABAA receptor-mediated conductances are largely preserved in epileptic brain (in contrast to synaptic inhibition which is often reduced). Tonic inhibition is therefore an attractive target for antiepileptic drugs. However, the network consequences of a commonly used approach to augment tonic GABAA receptor-mediated conductances by global manipulation of extracellular GABA are difficult to predict without understanding how epileptogenesis alters the pharmacology and GABA sensitivity of tonic inhibition, and how manipulation of tonic conductances modulates the output of individual neurons. Here we review the current literature on epilepsy-associated changes in tonic GABAA receptor-mediated signalling, and speculate about possible effects they have at the network level. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'New Targets and Approaches to the Treatment of Epilepsy'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Pavlov
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Institute of Neurology, London WC1N3BG, UK.
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34
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Héja L, Nyitrai G, Kékesi O, Dobolyi A, Szabó P, Fiáth R, Ulbert I, Pál-Szenthe B, Palkovits M, Kardos J. Astrocytes convert network excitation to tonic inhibition of neurons. BMC Biol 2012; 10:26. [PMID: 22420899 PMCID: PMC3342137 DOI: 10.1186/1741-7007-10-26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2011] [Accepted: 03/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transporters play important roles in balancing excitatory and inhibitory signals in the brain. Increasing evidence suggest that they may act concertedly to regulate extracellular levels of the neurotransmitters. RESULTS Here we present evidence that glutamate uptake-induced release of GABA from astrocytes has a direct impact on the excitability of pyramidal neurons in the hippocampus. We demonstrate that GABA, synthesized from the polyamine putrescine, is released from astrocytes by the reverse action of glial GABA transporter (GAT) subtypes GAT-2 or GAT-3. GABA release can be prevented by blocking glutamate uptake with the non-transportable inhibitor DHK, confirming that it is the glutamate transporter activity that triggers the reversal of GABA transporters, conceivably by elevating the intracellular Na+ concentration in astrocytes. The released GABA significantly contributes to the tonic inhibition of neurons in a network activity-dependent manner. Blockade of the Glu/GABA exchange mechanism increases the duration of seizure-like events in the low-[Mg2+] in vitro model of epilepsy. Under in vivo conditions the increased GABA release modulates the power of gamma range oscillation in the CA1 region, suggesting that the Glu/GABA exchange mechanism is also functioning in the intact hippocampus under physiological conditions. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest the existence of a novel molecular mechanism by which astrocytes transform glutamatergic excitation into GABAergic inhibition providing an adjustable, in situ negative feedback on the excitability of neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- László Héja
- Department of Functional Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular Pharmacology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Pusztaszeri 59-67, 1025 Budapest, Hungary.
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35
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Adams CE, Yonchek JC, Schulz KM, Graw SL, Stitzel J, Teschke PU, Stevens KE. Reduced Chrna7 expression in mice is associated with decreases in hippocampal markers of inhibitory function: implications for neuropsychiatric diseases. Neuroscience 2012; 207:274-82. [PMID: 22314319 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.01.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2011] [Revised: 01/04/2012] [Accepted: 01/14/2012] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The α7* nicotinic acetylcholine receptor encoded by CHRNA7 (human)/Chrna7 (mice) regulates the release of both the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA and the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate in the hippocampal formation. A heterozygous (Het) deletion at 15q13.3 containing CHRNA7 is associated with increased risk for schizophrenia, autism, and epilepsy. Each of these diseases are characterized by abnormalities in excitatory and inhibitory hippocampal circuit function. Reduced Chrna7 expression results in decreased hippocampal α7* receptor density, abnormal hippocampal auditory sensory processing, and increased hippocampal CA3 pyramidal neuron activity in C3H mice Het for a null mutation in Chrna7. These abnormalities demonstrate that decreased Chrna7 expression alters hippocampal inhibitory circuit function. The current study examined the specific impact of reduced Chrna7 expression on hippocampal inhibitory circuits by measuring the levels of GABA, GABA(A) receptors, the GABA synthetic enzyme l-glutamic acid decarboxylase-65 (GAD-65), and the vesicular GABA transporter 1 (GAT-1) in wild-type (Chrna7 +/+) and Het (Chrna7 +/-) C3H α7 mice of both genders. GAD-65 levels were significantly decreased in male and female Het C3H α7 mice, whereas GABA(A) receptors were significantly reduced only in male Het C3H α7 mice. No changes in GABA and GAT-1 levels were detected. These data suggest that reduced CHRNA7 expression may contribute to the abnormalities in hippocampal inhibitory circuits observed in schizophrenia, autism, and/or epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Adams
- Medical Research, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Denver, CO 80220, USA.
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36
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Tellez R, Gómez-Víquez L, Meneses A. GABA, glutamate, dopamine and serotonin transporters expression on memory formation and amnesia. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2011; 97:189-201. [PMID: 22183017 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2011.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2011] [Revised: 11/11/2011] [Accepted: 12/01/2011] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Notwithstanding several neurotransmission systems are frequently related to memory formation, amnesia and/or therapeutic targets for memory alterations, the role of transporters γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA, GAT1), glutamate (neuronal glutamate transporter excitatory amino acid carrier; EACC1), dopamine (DAT) and serotonin (SERT) is poorly understood. Hence, in this paper Western-blot analysis was used to evaluate expression changes on them during memory formation in trained and untrained rats treated with the selective serotonin transporter inhibitor fluoxetine, the amnesic drug d-methamphetamine (METH) and fluoxetine plus METH. Transporters expression was evaluated in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex and striatum. Data indicated that in addition of memory performance other behavioral parameters (e.g., explorative behavior, food-intake, etc.) that memory formation was recorded. Thus, memory formation in a Pavlovian/instrumental autoshaping was associated to up-regulation of prefrontal cortex GAT1 and EAAC1, striatal SERT, DAT and EACC1; while, hippocampal EACC1, GAT1 and SERT were down-regulated. METH impaired short (STM) and long-term memory (LTM), at 24 or 48h. The METH-induced amnesia down-regulated SERT, DAT, EACC1 and GAT1 in hippocampus and the GAT1 in striatum; no-changes were observed in prefrontal cortex. Post-training administration of fluoxetine improved LTM (48h), which was associated to DAT, GAT1 (prefrontal cortex) up-regulation, but GAT1 (striatum) and SERT (hippocampus) down-regulation. Fluoxetine plus METH administration was able to prevent amnesia, which was associated to DAT, EACC1 and GAT1 (prefrontal cortex), SERT and DAT (hippocampus) and EACC1 or DAT (striatal) up-regulation. Together these data show that memory formation, amnesia and anti-amnesic effects are associated to specific patters of transporters expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Tellez
- Depto. de Farmacobiología, CINVESTAV-IPN, Tenorios 235, Granjas Coapa, Mexico City 14330, Mexico
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37
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Vaz SH, Jørgensen TN, Cristóvão-Ferreira S, Duflot S, Ribeiro JA, Gether U, Sebastião AM. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) enhances GABA transport by modulating the trafficking of GABA transporter-1 (GAT-1) from the plasma membrane of rat cortical astrocytes. J Biol Chem 2011; 286:40464-76. [PMID: 21969376 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.232009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transporters (GATs) are located in the plasma membrane of neurons and astrocytes and are responsible for termination of GABAergic transmission. It has previously been shown that brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) modulates GAT-1-mediated GABA transport in nerve terminals and neuronal cultures. We now report that BDNF enhances GAT-1-mediated GABA transport in cultured astrocytes, an effect mostly due to an increase in the V(max) kinetic constant. This action involves the truncated form of the TrkB receptor (TrkB-t) coupled to a non-classic PLC-γ/PKC-δ and ERK/MAPK pathway and requires active adenosine A(2A) receptors. Transport through GAT-3 is not affected by BDNF. To elucidate if BDNF affects trafficking of GAT-1 in astrocytes, we generated and infected astrocytes with a functional mutant of the rat GAT-1 (rGAT-1) in which the hemagglutinin (HA) epitope was incorporated into the second extracellular loop. An increase in plasma membrane of HA-rGAT-1 as well as of rGAT-1 was observed when both HA-GAT-1-transduced astrocytes and rGAT-1-overexpressing astrocytes were treated with BDNF. The effect of BDNF results from inhibition of dynamin/clathrin-dependent constitutive internalization of GAT-1 rather than from facilitation of the monensin-sensitive recycling of GAT-1 molecules back to the plasma membrane. We therefore conclude that BDNF enhances the time span of GAT-1 molecules at the plasma membrane of astrocytes. BDNF may thus play an active role in the clearance of GABA from synaptic and extrasynaptic sites and in this way influence neuronal excitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra H Vaz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
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38
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Medina-Ceja L, Sandoval-García F, Pardo-Peña K. Effect of Early Glutamate Exposure on EAAT-3 and GAT-1 Protein Expression in Cells of the Dentate Gyrus and CA1 Region of the Adult Rat Hippocampus. Arch Med Res 2011; 42:433-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2011.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2011] [Accepted: 08/10/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Luna-Munguia H, Orozco-Suarez S, Rocha L. Effects of high frequency electrical stimulation and R-verapamil on seizure susceptibility and glutamate and GABA release in a model of phenytoin-resistant seizures. Neuropharmacology 2011; 61:807-14. [PMID: 21645533 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2011.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2011] [Revised: 05/18/2011] [Accepted: 05/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The present study was focused to characterize the effects of intrahippocampal application of R-verapamil, a P-glycoprotein blocker, and High Frequency Electrical Stimulation (HFS) at 130 Hz, on seizure susceptibility and extracellular concentrations of glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in hippocampus of kindled rats with drug-resistant seizures. Fully kindled rats classified in responsive and non-responsive to phenytoin were used for this purpose. In contrast with responsive animals, non-responsive rats showed lower afterdischarge threshold (ADT) values in pre-kindling conditions and required less number of kindling trials to achieve the kindled state. Once the animals attained the kindled state, both epileptic groups presented high glutamate and low GABA interictal release, effect more evident in non-responsive rats. In hippocampus of responsive animals, GABA levels demonstrated two increases at 120 and 240 min after the ictal event, a situation no detected for non-responsive rats. Kindled animals receiving hippocampal HFS showed augmented ADT, an effect associated with enhanced GABA release in responsive rats. Intrahippocampal perfusion of R-verapamil (5 mM) decreased the seizure susceptibility (high ADT values), enhanced the interictal GABA release and the postictal levels of glutamate and GABA in responsive and non-responsive rats. It is conclude that alterations of glutamate and GABA release in the epileptic hippocampus of non-responsive animals resemble those found in hippocampus of patients with refractory TLE. In addition, intrahippocampal application of HFS and R-verapamil modifies the amino acid release and reduces the seizure susceptibility of both, responsive and non-responsive rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiram Luna-Munguia
- Department of Pharmacobiology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies, Mexico City, Mexico
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40
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de Lanerolle NC, Lee TS, Spencer DD. Astrocytes and epilepsy. Neurotherapeutics 2010; 7:424-38. [PMID: 20880506 PMCID: PMC5084304 DOI: 10.1016/j.nurt.2010.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2010] [Revised: 07/28/2010] [Accepted: 08/04/2010] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes form a significant constituent of seizure foci in the human brain. For a long time it was believed that astrocytes play a significant role in the causation of seizures. With the increase in our understanding of the unique biology of these cells, their precise role in seizure foci is receiving renewed attention. This article reviews the information now available on the role of astrocytes in the hippocampal seizure focus in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis. Our intent is to try to integrate the available data. Astrocytes at seizure foci seem to not be a homogeneous population of cells, and in addition to typical glial fibrillary acidic protein, positive reactive astrocytes also include a population of neuron glia-2-like cells The astrocytes in sclerotic hippocampi differ from those in nonsclerotic hippocampi in their membrane physiology, having elevated Na+ channels and reduced inwardly rectifying potassium ion channels, and some having the capacity to generate action potentials. They also have reduced glutamine synthetase and increased glutamate dehydrogenase activity. The molecular interface between the astrocyte and microvasculature is also changed. The astrocytes are also associated with increased expression of many molecules normally concerned with immune and inflammatory functions. A speculative mechanism postulates that neuron glia-2-like cells may be involved in creating a high glutamate environment, whereas the function of more typical reactive astrocytes contribute to maintain high extracellular K+ levels; both factors contributing to the hyperexcitability of subicular neurons to generate epileptiform activity. The functions of the astrocyte vascular interface may be more critical to the processes involved in epileptogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nihal C de Lanerolle
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, USA.
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Co-localisation of markers for glycinergic and GABAergic neurones in rat nucleus of the solitary tract: implications for co-transmission. J Chem Neuroanat 2010; 40:160-76. [PMID: 20434539 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2010.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2010] [Revised: 04/21/2010] [Accepted: 04/22/2010] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Immunoreactive structures visualised with antibodies to glycine were prominent in areas of the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) surrounding the tractus solitarius, but scarcer in medial and ventral areas of the nucleus. This contrasted with a higher density, more homogenous distribution of structures labelled for gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Immunolabelling of adjacent semi-thin sections nonetheless indicated a close correspondence between cells and puncta labelled by glycine and GABA antisera in certain NTS areas. With post-embedding electron microscopic immunolabelling, synaptic terminals with high, presumed transmitter levels of glycine were discriminated from terminals containing low, metabolic levels by quantitative analysis of gold particle labelling densities. In a random sample of terminals, 28.5% qualified on this basis as glycinergic (compared to 44.4% GABAergic); these glycinergic terminals targeted mainly dendritic structures and contained pleomorphic vesicles and symmetrical synapses. Serial section analysis revealed few terminals (5.2%) immunoreactive for glycine alone, with 82% of glycinergic terminals also containing high levels of GABA immunoreactivity. No evidence for co-localisation of glycine and glutamate was found. Light, confocal and electron microscopic labelling with antibodies to proteins specific for glycine and GABA synthesis, release and uptake confirmed that glycinergic terminals also containing GABA are found predominantly in more lateral areas of NTS, despite glycine receptors and the 'glial' glycine transporter (GLYT1) being expressed throughout all areas of the nucleus. The data suggest that synaptic terminals in certain functionally distinct areas of NTS co-release both inhibitory amino acids, which may account for the previously reported differential inhibitory effects of glycine and GABA on NTS neurones.
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Witcher MR, Park YD, Lee MR, Sharma S, Harris KM, Kirov SA. Three-dimensional relationships between perisynaptic astroglia and human hippocampal synapses. Glia 2010; 58:572-87. [PMID: 19908288 DOI: 10.1002/glia.20946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Perisynaptic astroglia are critical for normal synaptic development and function. Little is known, however, about perisynaptic astroglia in the human hippocampus. When mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) is refractory to medication, surgical removal is required for seizure quiescence. To investigate perisynaptic astroglia in human hippocampus, we recovered slices for several hours in vitro from three surgical specimens and then quickly fixed them to achieve high-quality ultrastructure. Histological samples from each case were found to have mesial temporal sclerosis with Blumcke Type 1a (mild, moderate) or 1b (severe) pathology. Quantitative analysis through serial section transmission electron microscopy in CA1 stratum radiatum revealed more synapses in the mild (10/10 microm(3)) than the moderate (5/10 microm(3)) or severe (1/10 microm(3)) cases. Normal spines occurred in mild and moderate cases, but a few multisynaptic spines were all that remained in the severe case. Like adult rat hippocampus, perisynaptic astroglial processes were preferentially associated with larger synapses in the mild and moderate cases, but rarely penetrated the cluster of axonal boutons surrounding multisynaptic spines. Synapse perimeters were only partially surrounded by astroglial processes such that all synapses had some access to substances in the extracellular space, similar to adult rat hippocampus. Junctions between astroglial processes were observed more frequently in moderate than mild case, but were obscured by densely packed intermediate filaments in astroglial processes of the severe case. These findings suggest that perisynaptic astroglial processes associate with synapses in human hippocampus in a manner similar to model systems and are disrupted by severe MTLE pathology.
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Gonzalez-Burgos G. GABA transporter GAT1: a crucial determinant of GABAB receptor activation in cortical circuits? ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2010; 58:175-204. [PMID: 20655483 DOI: 10.1016/s1054-3589(10)58008-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The GABA transporter 1 (GAT1), the main plasma membrane GABA transporter in brain tissue, mediates translocation of GABA from the extracellular to the intracellular space. Whereas GAT1-mediated uptake could generally terminate the synaptic effects of GABA, recent studies suggest a more complex physiological role. This chapter reviews evidence suggesting that in hippocampal and neocortical circuits, GAT1-mediated GABA transport regulates the electrophysiological effects of GABA(B) receptor (GABA(B)R) activation by synaptically-released GABA. Contrasting with synaptic GABA(A) receptors, GABA(B)Rs display high GABA binding affinity, slow G protein-coupled mediated signaling, and a predominantly extrasynaptic localization. Such GABA(B)R properties determine production of slow inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (IPSPs) and slow presynaptic effects. Such effects possibly require diffusion of GABA far away from the release sites, and consequently both GABA(B)R-mediated IPSPs and presynaptic effects are strongly enhanced when GAT1-mediated uptake is blocked. Studies are reviewed here which indicate that GABA(B)R-mediated IPSPs seem to be produced by dendrite-targeting GABA neurons including specifically, although perhaps not exclusively, the neurogliaform cell class. In contrast, the GABA interneuron subtypes that synapse onto the perisomatic membrane of pyramidal cells mostly signal via synaptic GABA(A)Rs. This chapter reviews data suggesting that neurogliaform cells produce electrophysiological effects onto other neurons in the cortical cell network via GABA(B)R-mediated volume transmission that is highly regulated by GAT1 activity. Therefore, the role of GAT1 in controlling GABA(B)R-mediated signaling is markedly different from its regulation of GABA(A)R-mediated fast synaptic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Gonzalez-Burgos
- Department of Psychiatry, Translational Neuroscience Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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GABA uptake-dependent Ca(2+) signaling in developing olfactory bulb astrocytes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2009; 106:17570-5. [PMID: 19805126 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0809513106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
We studied GABAergic signaling in astrocytes of olfactory bulb slices using confocal Ca(2+) imaging and two-photon Na(+) imaging. GABA evoked Ca(2+) transients in astrocytes that persisted in the presence of GABA(A) and GABA(B) receptor antagonists, but were suppressed by inhibition of GABA uptake by SNAP 5114. Withdrawal of external Ca(2+) blocked GABA-induced Ca(2+) transients, and depletion of Ca(2+) stores with cyclopiazonic acid reduced Ca(2+) transients by approximately 90%. This indicates that the Ca(2+) transients depend on external Ca(2+), but are mainly mediated by intracellular Ca(2+) release, conforming with Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release. Inhibition of ryanodine receptors did not affect GABA-induced Ca(2+) transients, whereas the InsP(3) receptor blocker 2-APB inhibited the Ca(2+) transients. GABA also induced Na(+) increases in astrocytes, potentially reducing Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange. To test whether reduction of Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange induces Ca(2+) signaling, we inhibited Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange with KB-R7943, which mimicked GABA-induced Ca(2+) transients. Endogenous GABA release from neurons, activated by stimulation of afferent axons or NMDA application, also triggered Ca(2+) transients in astrocytes. The significance of GABAergic Ca(2+) signaling in astrocytes for control of blood flow is demonstrated by SNAP 5114-sensitive constriction of blood vessels accompanying GABA uptake. The results suggest that GABAergic signaling is composed of GABA uptake-mediated Na(+) rises that reduce Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange, thereby leading to a Ca(2+) increase sufficient to trigger Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release via InsP(3) receptors. Hence, GABA transporters not only remove GABA from the extracellular space, but may also contribute to intracellular signaling and astrocyte function, such as control of blood flow.
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Héja L, Barabás P, Nyitrai G, Kékesi KA, Lasztóczi B, Toke O, Tárkányi G, Madsen K, Schousboe A, Dobolyi A, Palkovits M, Kardos J. Glutamate uptake triggers transporter-mediated GABA release from astrocytes. PLoS One 2009; 4:e7153. [PMID: 19777062 PMCID: PMC2744931 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0007153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2009] [Accepted: 09/02/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Glutamate (Glu) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transporters play important roles in regulating neuronal activity. Glu is removed from the extracellular space dominantly by glial transporters. In contrast, GABA is mainly taken up by neurons. However, the glial GABA transporter subtypes share their localization with the Glu transporters and their expression is confined to the same subpopulation of astrocytes, raising the possibility of cooperation between Glu and GABA transport processes. Methodology/Principal Findings Here we used diverse biological models both in vitro and in vivo to explore the interplay between these processes. We found that removal of Glu by astrocytic transporters triggers an elevation in the extracellular level of GABA. This coupling between excitatory and inhibitory signaling was found to be independent of Glu receptor-mediated depolarization, external presence of Ca2+ and glutamate decarboxylase activity. It was abolished in the presence of non-transportable blockers of glial Glu or GABA transporters, suggesting that the concerted action of these transporters underlies the process. Conclusions/Significance Our results suggest that activation of Glu transporters results in GABA release through reversal of glial GABA transporters. This transporter-mediated interplay represents a direct link between inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmission and may function as a negative feedback combating intense excitation in pathological conditions such as epilepsy or ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- László Héja
- Department of Neurochemistry, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Chemical Research Center, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.
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Role of glutamate and GABA transporters in development of pentylenetetrazol-kindling. Neurochem Res 2009; 34:1324-31. [PMID: 19169815 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-009-9912-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2009] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Kindling is a form of epileptogenesis that can be induced with pentylenetetrazol (PTZ). We undertook this study to evaluate the contribution of glutamate and GABA transporters to the process of PTZ kindling. Rats were injected i.p. three times per week with PTZ (40 mg/kg) until they were fully kindled. In rats who achieved full kindling, measurement of hippocampal glutamate and GABA transporters within 24 h by western blot showed that GLAST, GLT-1, and EAAC1 were elevated significantly. However, fully kindled rats at 30 days after their last seizure had no change in either glutamate or GABA transporters proteins. These sequential observations suggest that glutamate transporters may contribute to the occurrence of seizures, but were not associated with maintenance of epileptogenesis. During this experiment, we collected data from animals that had kindled easily and animals who were resistant to kindling. Easily-kindled rats reached full kindling with less than five injections of PTZ. Kindling resistant animals failed to achieve full kindling even after administration of 12 consecutive injections of PTZ. Levels of EAAC1 and GAT-1 in easily-kindled rats were decreased by 30% when compared to kindling resistant animals at 30 days after the last PTZ injection. Since decreased EAAC1 and GAT-1 would diminish GABA function, less quantity of these proteins would appear to be associated with the convulsive threshold at the beginning of kindling development. We wonder if glutamate and GABA transporters might be operant in a convulsion threshold set factor or as a pace factor for kindling.
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Perdan K, Lipnik‐Štangelj M, Kržan M. Chapter 8 The Impact of Astrocytes in the Clearance of Neurotransmitters by Uptake and Inactivation. ADVANCES IN PLANAR LIPID BILAYERS AND LIPOSOMES 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/s1554-4516(09)09008-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Williamson A, Patrylo PR. Physiological studies of human dentate granule cells. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2008; 163:183-98. [PMID: 17765719 DOI: 10.1016/s0079-6123(07)63011-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
The availability of human hippocampi obtained through surgery (usually for treatment of temporal lobe epilepsy) has allowed us to investigate the properties of the human dentate in a way that cannot be done with other brain regions. The dentate has been the primary focus of these studies because of its relative preservation in all patient specimens. Moreover, there is extensive synaptic reorganization of numerous neurotransmitter systems in this the fascia dentate (dentate gyrus and the hilus) in humans with specific forms of TLE. These changes are not evident in tissue from patients with seizure that begin outside the hippocampus, and, as a result, this tissue provides an invaluable resource for comparisons. Physiological data using both slices and acutely dissociated cells demonstrate that the granule cells have membrane properties similar to those of rodents although there are specific changes that appear to be associated with seizures. Similarly, in the non-sclerotic hippocampi, the synaptic properties are similar to those reported in rodents. There are also a number of parallels between the findings in humans and in status animal models of temporal lobe epilepsy. This review will cover analyses of membrane properties as well as of glutamatergic, GABAergic, and neuromodulatory systems. Thus, while there are a number of issues that invariably arise with studies of pathological human tissue, this tissue is ideally suited to verify and refine animal models of temporal lobe epilepsy. In addition, one can argue that human tissue provides the only resource to evaluate the ways that granule cells recorded from laboratory animals approximate human granule cell physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Williamson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06518, USA.
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Toscano CD, Prabhu VV, Langenbach R, Becker KG, Bosetti F. Differential gene expression patterns in cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 deficient mouse brain. Genome Biol 2007; 8:R14. [PMID: 17266762 PMCID: PMC1839133 DOI: 10.1186/gb-2007-8-1-r14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2006] [Revised: 11/09/2006] [Accepted: 01/31/2007] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Microarray analysis of gene expression in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of mice deficient in cyclooxygenase-1 or cyclooxygenase-2 reveals that the two enzymes differentially modulate brain gene expression. Background Cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 produce prostanoids from arachidonic acid and are thought to have important yet distinct roles in normal brain function. Deletion of COX-1 or COX-2 results in profound differences both in brain levels of prostaglandin E2 and in activation of the transcription factor nuclear factor-κB, suggesting that COX-1 and COX-2 play distinct roles in brain arachidonic acid metabolism and regulation of gene expression. To further elucidate the role of COX isoforms in the regulation of the brain transcriptome, microarray analysis of gene expression in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of mice deficient in COX-1 (COX-1-/-) or COX-2 (COX-2-/-) was performed. Results A majority (>93%) of the differentially expressed genes in both the cortex and hippocampus were altered in one COX isoform knockout mouse but not the other. The major gene function affected in all genotype comparisons was 'transcriptional regulation'. Distinct biologic and metabolic pathways that were altered in COX-/- mice included β oxidation, methionine metabolism, janus kinase signaling, and GABAergic neurotransmission. Conclusion Our findings suggest that COX-1 and COX-2 differentially modulate brain gene expression. Because certain anti-inflammatory and analgesic treatments are based on inhibition of COX activity, the specific alterations observed in this study further our understanding of the relationship of COX-1 and COX-2 with signaling pathways in brain and of the therapeutic and toxicologic consequences of COX inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D Toscano
- Brain Physiology and Metabolism Section, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bldg. 9, Rm. 1S126, 9 Memorial Drive, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Vinaykumar V Prabhu
- Gene Expression and Genomics Unit, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Gerontology Research Center, 5600 Nathan Shock Drive, Baltimore, Maryland, 21224, USA
| | - Robert Langenbach
- Laboratory of Molecular Carcinogenesis, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, 111 TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | - Kevin G Becker
- Gene Expression and Genomics Unit, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Gerontology Research Center, 5600 Nathan Shock Drive, Baltimore, Maryland, 21224, USA
| | - Francesca Bosetti
- Brain Physiology and Metabolism Section, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bldg. 9, Rm. 1S126, 9 Memorial Drive, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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Abstract
This review considers how recent advances in the physiology of ion channels and other potential molecular targets, in conjunction with new information on the genetics of idiopathic epilepsies, can be applied to the search for improved antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Marketed AEDs predominantly target voltage-gated cation channels (the alpha subunits of voltage-gated Na+ channels and also T-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels) or influence GABA-mediated inhibition. Recently, alpha2-delta voltage-gated Ca2+ channel subunits and the SV2A synaptic vesicle protein have been recognized as likely targets. Genetic studies of familial idiopathic epilepsies have identified numerous genes associated with diverse epilepsy syndromes, including genes encoding Na+ channels and GABA(A) receptors, which are known AED targets. A strategy based on genes associated with epilepsy in animal models and humans suggests other potential AED targets, including various voltage-gated Ca2+ channel subunits and auxiliary proteins, A- or M-type voltage-gated K+ channels, and ionotropic glutamate receptors. Recent progress in ion channel research brought about by molecular cloning of the channel subunit proteins and studies in epilepsy models suggest additional targets, including G-protein-coupled receptors, such as GABA(B) and metabotropic glutamate receptors; hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated cation (HCN) channel subunits, responsible for hyperpolarization-activated current Ih; connexins, which make up gap junctions; and neurotransmitter transporters, particularly plasma membrane and vesicular transporters for GABA and glutamate. New information from the structural characterization of ion channels, along with better understanding of ion channel function, may allow for more selective targeting. For example, Na+ channels underlying persistent Na+ currents or GABA(A) receptor isoforms responsible for tonic (extrasynaptic) currents represent attractive targets. The growing understanding of the pathophysiology of epilepsy and the structural and functional characterization of the molecular targets provide many opportunities to create improved epilepsy therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian S Meldrum
- Centre for Neuroscience, Division of Biomedical and Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Kings College, London, United Kingdom
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