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Camacho-Morales A, Cárdenas-Tueme M. Prenatal Programming of Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-1 Signaling in Autism Susceptibility. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:6119-6134. [PMID: 38277116 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-03940-z] [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: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that involves functional and structural defects in selective central nervous system (CNS) regions, harming the individual capability to process and respond to external stimuli, including impaired verbal and non-verbal communications. Etiological causes of ASD have not been fully clarified; however, prenatal activation of the innate immune system by external stimuli might infiltrate peripheral immune cells into the fetal CNS and activate cytokine secretion by microglia and astrocytes. For instance, genomic and postmortem histological analysis has identified proinflammatory gene signatures, microglia-related expressed genes, and neuroinflammatory markers in the brain during ASD diagnosis. Active neuroinflammation might also occur during the developmental stage, promoting the establishment of a defective brain connectome and increasing susceptibility to ASD after birth. While still under investigation, we tested the hypothesis whether the monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) signaling is prenatally programmed to favor peripheral immune cell infiltration and activate microglia into the fetal CNS, setting susceptibility to autism-like behavior. In this review, we will comprehensively provide the current understanding of the prenatal activation of MCP-1 signaling by external stimuli during the developmental stage as a new selective node to promote neuroinflammation, brain structural alterations, and behavioral defects associated to ASD diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Camacho-Morales
- College of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, NL, Mexico.
- Center for Research and Development in Health Sciences, Neurometabolism Unit, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo Leon, San Nicolás de los Garza, Monterrey, NL, Mexico.
| | - Marcela Cárdenas-Tueme
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de La Salud and The Institute for Obesity Research, 64710, Monterrey, Mexico
- Nutrition Unit, Center for Research and Development in Health Sciences, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, 64460, Monterrey, Mexico
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2
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Kim J, Pavlidis P, Ciernia AV. Development of a High-Throughput Pipeline to Characterize Microglia Morphological States at a Single-Cell Resolution. eNeuro 2024; 11:ENEURO.0014-24.2024. [PMID: 39029952 PMCID: PMC11289588 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0014-24.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
As rapid responders to their environments, microglia engage in functions that are mirrored by their cellular morphology. Microglia are classically thought to exhibit a ramified morphology under homeostatic conditions which switches to an ameboid form during inflammatory conditions. However, microglia display a wide spectrum of morphologies outside of this dichotomy, including rod-like, ramified, ameboid, and hypertrophic states, which have been observed across brain regions, neurodevelopmental timepoints, and various pathological contexts. We applied dimensionality reduction and clustering to consider contributions of multiple morphology measures together to define a spectrum of microglial morphological states in a mouse dataset that we used to demonstrate the utility of our toolset. Using ImageJ, we first developed a semiautomated approach to characterize 27 morphology features from hundreds to thousands of individual microglial cells in a brain region-specific manner. Within this pool of features, we defined distinct sets of highly correlated features that describe different aspects of morphology, including branch length, branching complexity, territory span, and circularity. When considered together, these sets of features drove different morphological clusters. Our tools captured morphological states similarly and robustly when applied to independent datasets and using different immunofluorescent markers for microglia. We have compiled our morphology analysis pipeline into an accessible, easy-to-use, and fully open-source ImageJ macro and R package that the neuroscience community can expand upon and directly apply to their own analyses. Outcomes from this work will supply the field with new tools to systematically evaluate the heterogeneity of microglia morphological states across various experimental models and research questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Kim
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Paul Pavlidis
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Michael Smith Laboratories, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Annie Vogel Ciernia
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
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Darwish M, El Hajj R, Khayat L, Alaaeddine N. Stem Cell Secretions as a Potential Therapeutic Agent for Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Narrative Review. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:1252-1272. [PMID: 38630359 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-024-10724-4] [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] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental illness characterized by impaired social interaction and restricted repetitive behaviors or interests. The rising prevalence of ASD diagnosis has triggered a surge in research into investigating the underlying neuropathological processes and finding new therapeutic approaches. ASD is characterized by neuroinflammation and dysregulation of neuro-immune cross-talk, which suggests that stem cell treatment might be a potential therapeutic approach. The beneficial and restorative effects of stem cells are mainly due to their paracrine activity, in which stem cells generate and release extracellular vesicles such as exosomes and distinct secreted non-vesicle soluble proteins, including, growth factors, chemokines, cytokines, and immunomodulatory molecules referred to as the Secretome. In this paper, we reviewed the existing research exploring the therapeutic potential of stem cell secretome focusing on their role in addressing ASD pathology. Furthermore, we proposed a comprehensive mechanism of action for stem cell secretions, encompassing the broader secretome as well as the specific contribution of exosomes, in alleviating ASD neuropathology. Across the reviewed studies, exosomes and secreted soluble factors of the transplanted stem cell demonstrate a potential efficacy in ameliorating autistic-like behaviors. The proposed mechanism of action involves the modulation of signaling pathways implicated in neuroinflammation, angiogenesis, cellular apoptosis, and immunomodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Darwish
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Neuroscience Research Center, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | | | - Nada Alaaeddine
- Dean of Health Sciences, Modern University for Business & Science, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Zhang W, Mou Z, Zhong Q, Liu X, Yan L, Gou L, Chen Z, So KF, Zhang L. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation improves social deficits through the inhibition of IL-17a signaling in a mouse model of autism. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1393549. [PMID: 38993386 PMCID: PMC11237520 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1393549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Maternal exposure to inflammation is one of the causes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve exerts a neuroprotective effect via its anti-inflammatory action. We thus investigated whether transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) can enhance social abilities in a mouse model of ASD induced by maternal immune activation (MIA). Methods ASD mouse model were constructed by intraperitoneal injection of polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly (I:C)). TaVNS with different parameters were tested in ASD mouse model and in C57BL/6 mice, then various behavioral tests and biochemical analyses related to autism were conducted. ASD model mice were injected with an interleukin (IL)-17a antibody into the brain, followed by behavioral testing and biochemical analyses. Results TaVNS reduced anxiety, improved social function, decreased the number of microglia, and inhibited M1 polarization of microglia. Additionally, taVNS attenuated the expression of the IL-17a protein in the prefrontal cortex and blood of ASD model mice. To examine the possible involvement of IL-17a in taVNS-induced neuroprotection, we injected an IL-17a antibody into the prefrontal cortex of ASD model mice and found that neutralizing IL-17a decreased the number of microglia and inhibited M1 polarization. Furthermore, neutralizing IL-17a improved social function in autism model mice. Conclusion Our study revealed that reduced neuroinflammation is an important mechanism of taVNS-mediated social improvement and neuroprotection against autism. This effect of taVNS could be attributed to the inhibition of the IL-17a pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiwei Mou
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Heyuan, China
| | - Qi Zhong
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaocao Liu
- Lab of Regenerative Medicine in Sports Science, School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lan Yan
- Key Laboratory of Central Nervous System (CNS) Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macau Institute of Central Nervous System (CNS) Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Gou
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Heyuan, China
| | - Zhuoming Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- Key Laboratory of Central Nervous System (CNS) Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macau Institute of Central Nervous System (CNS) Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Central Nervous System (CNS) Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macau Institute of Central Nervous System (CNS) Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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Bar E, Fischer I, Rokach M, Elad-Sfadia G, Shirenova S, Ophir O, Trangle SS, Okun E, Barak B. Neuronal deletion of Gtf2i results in developmental microglial alterations in a mouse model related to Williams syndrome. Glia 2024; 72:1117-1135. [PMID: 38450767 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Williams syndrome (WS) is a genetic neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a heterozygous microdeletion, characterized by hypersociability and unique neurocognitive abnormalities. Of the deleted genes, GTF2I has been linked to hypersociability in WS. We have recently shown that Gtf2i deletion from forebrain excitatory neurons, referred to as Gtf2i conditional knockout (cKO) mice leads to multi-faceted myelination deficits associated with the social behaviors affected in WS. These deficits were potentially mediated also by microglia, as they present a close relationship with oligodendrocytes. To study the impact of altered myelination, we characterized these mice in terms of microglia over the course of development. In postnatal day 30 (P30) Gtf2i cKO mice, cortical microglia displayed a more ramified state, as compared with wild type (controls). However, postnatal day 4 (P4) microglia exhibited high proliferation rates and an elevated activation state, demonstrating altered properties related to activation and inflammation in Gtf2i cKO mice compared with control. Intriguingly, P4 Gtf2i cKO-derived microglial cells exhibited significantly elevated myelin phagocytosis in vitro compared to control mice. Lastly, systemic injection of clemastine to P4 Gtf2i cKO and control mice until P30, led to a significant interaction between genotypes and treatments on the expression levels of the phagocytic marker CD68, and a significant reduction of the macrophage/microglial marker Iba1 transcript levels in the cortex of the Gtf2i cKO treated mice. Our data thus implicate microglia as important players in WS, and that early postnatal manipulation of microglia might be beneficial in treating inflammatory and myelin-related pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ela Bar
- The School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- The School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry & Biophysics, Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Inbar Fischer
- The Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - May Rokach
- The Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Galit Elad-Sfadia
- The School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Sophie Shirenova
- The Leslie and Susan Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- The Paul Feder Laboratory on Alzheimer's Disease Research, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Omer Ophir
- The Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Sari Schokoroy Trangle
- The School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Eitan Okun
- The Leslie and Susan Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- The Paul Feder Laboratory on Alzheimer's Disease Research, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Boaz Barak
- The School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- The Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Meng J, Zhang L, Zhang YW. Microglial Dysfunction in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neuroscientist 2024:10738584241252576. [PMID: 38712859 DOI: 10.1177/10738584241252576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder with onset in childhood. The molecular mechanisms underlying ASD have not yet been elucidated completely. Evidence has emerged to support a link between microglial dysfunction and the etiology of ASD. This review summarizes current research on microglial dysfunction in neuroinflammation and synaptic pruning, which are associated with altered transcriptomes and autophagy in ASD. Dysbiosis of gut microbiota in ASD and its correlation with microglial dysfunction are also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Meng
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disease and Aging Research, Institute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Brain Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Lingliang Zhang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disease and Aging Research, Institute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Brain Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yun-Wu Zhang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disease and Aging Research, Institute of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Brain Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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7
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Lazzarini G, Gatta A, Miragliotta V, Vaglini F, Viaggi C, Pirone A. Glial cells are affected more than interneurons by the loss of Engrailed 2 gene in the mouse cerebellum. J Anat 2024; 244:667-675. [PMID: 38009365 PMCID: PMC10941518 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Glial cells play a pivotal role in the inflammatory processes, which are common features of several neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. Their major role in modulating neuroinflammation underscores their significance in these conditions. Engrailed-2 knockout mice (En2-/- ) are considered a valuable model for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) due to their distinctive neuroanatomical and behavioral traits. Given the higher prevalence of ASD in males, our objective was to investigate glial and interneuron alterations in the cerebellum of En2-/- mice compared with wild-type (WT) mice in both sexes. We employed immunohistochemical analysis to assess cell density for all cell types studied and analyzed the area (A) and shape factor (SF) of microglia cell bodies. Our findings revealed the following: (a) In WT mice, the density of microglia and astrocytes was higher in females than in males, while interneuron density was lower in females. Notably, in En2-mutant mice, these differences between males and females were not present. (b) In both male and female En2-/- mice, astrocyte density exceeded that in WT mice, with microglia density being greater only in females. (c) In WT females, microglia cell bodies exhibited a larger area and a lower shape factor compared to WT males. Remarkably, the En2 mutation did not appear to influence these sex-related differences. (d) In both male and female En2-/- mice, we observed a consistent pattern: microglia cell bodies displayed a larger area and a smaller shape factor. Given the ongoing debate surrounding the roles of glia and sex-related factors in ASD, our observations provide valuable insights into understanding how an ASD-associated gene En2 affects specific cell types in the cerebellum.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Francesca Vaglini
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical TechnologiesUniversity of PisaPisaItaly
| | - Cristina Viaggi
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical TechnologiesUniversity of PisaPisaItaly
| | - Andrea Pirone
- Department of Veterinary SciencesUniversity of PisaPisaItaly
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Hughes HK, Moreno RJ, Ashwood P. Innate Immune Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). FOCUS (AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC PUBLISHING) 2024; 22:229-241. [PMID: 38680981 PMCID: PMC11046725 DOI: 10.1176/appi.focus.24022004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by communication and social behavior deficits. The presence of restricted and repetitive behaviors often accompanies these deficits, and these characteristics can range from mild to severe. The past several decades have seen a significant rise in the prevalence of ASD. The etiology of ASD remains unknown; however, genetic and environmental risk factors play a role. Multiple hypotheses converge to suggest that neuroinflammation, or at least the interaction between immune and neural systems, may be involved in the etiology of some ASD cases or groups. Repeated evidence of innate immune dysfunction has been seen in ASD, often associated with worsening behaviors. This evidence includes data from circulating myeloid cells and brain resident macrophages/microglia in both human and animal models. This comprehensive review presents recent findings of innate immune dysfunction in ASD, including aberrant innate cellular function, evidence of neuroinflammation, and microglia activation. Appeared originally in Brain Behav Immun 2023; 108:245-254.
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Affiliation(s)
- H K Hughes
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, UC Davis, CA, USA (all authors);The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis, CA, USA (all authors)
| | - R J Moreno
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, UC Davis, CA, USA (all authors);The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis, CA, USA (all authors)
| | - P Ashwood
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, UC Davis, CA, USA (all authors);The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis, CA, USA (all authors)
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Tian Y, Xiao X, Liu W, Cheng S, Qian N, Wang L, Liu Y, Ai R, Zhu X. TREM2 improves microglia function and synaptic development in autism spectrum disorders by regulating P38 MAPK signaling pathway. Mol Brain 2024; 17:12. [PMID: 38409127 PMCID: PMC10898105 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-024-01081-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompasses a diverse range of neurodevelopmental disorders, but the precise underlying pathogenesis remains elusive. This study aim to explore the potential mechanism of TREM2 in regulating microglia function in ASD. MATERIALS AND METHODS The offspring rat model of ASD was established through prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA), and the behavioral symptoms of the ASD model were observed. On postnatal day (PND) 7 and PND 28, the effects of prenatally exposure to VPA on synaptic development and microglia phenotype of offspring rats were observed. Primary microglia were cultured in vitro. Lentivirus and adenovirus were utilized to interfere with TREM2 and overexpress TREM2. RESULTS Prenatally VPA exposure induced offspring rats to show typical ASD core symptoms, which led to abnormal expression of synapse-related proteins in the prefrontal cortex of offspring rats, changed the phenotype of microglia in offspring rats, promoted the polarization of microglia to pro-inflammatory type, and increased inflammatory response. The experimental results in vitro showed that overexpression of TREM2 could increase the expression of Gephyrin, decrease the content of CD86 protein and increase the content of CD206 protein. In addition, after the expression of TREM2 was interfered, the content of p-P38 MAPK protein increased and the content of p-ELK-1 protein decreased. CONCLUSION The protective influence of TREM2 on the VPA-induced ASD model is attributed to its inhibition of the P38 MAPK pathway, this protective effect may be achieved by promoting the polarization of microglia to anti-inflammatory phenotype and improving the neuronal synaptic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Tian
- School of Pediatrics, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang City, China
- Department of Pediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No. 28 Guiyi Street, Yunyan District, 550004, Guiyang City, China
| | - Xiao Xiao
- School of Pediatrics, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang City, China
- Department of Pediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No. 28 Guiyi Street, Yunyan District, 550004, Guiyang City, China
| | - Weiliang Liu
- School of Pediatrics, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang City, China
- Department of Pediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No. 28 Guiyi Street, Yunyan District, 550004, Guiyang City, China
| | - Shanqing Cheng
- School of Pediatrics, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang City, China
- Department of Pediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No. 28 Guiyi Street, Yunyan District, 550004, Guiyang City, China
| | - Na Qian
- School of Pediatrics, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang City, China
- Department of Pediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No. 28 Guiyi Street, Yunyan District, 550004, Guiyang City, China
| | - Ling Wang
- School of Pediatrics, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang City, China
- Department of Pediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No. 28 Guiyi Street, Yunyan District, 550004, Guiyang City, China
| | - Yang Liu
- School of Pediatrics, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang City, China
- Department of Pediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No. 28 Guiyi Street, Yunyan District, 550004, Guiyang City, China
| | - Rong Ai
- School of Pediatrics, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang City, China.
- Department of Pediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No. 28 Guiyi Street, Yunyan District, 550004, Guiyang City, China.
| | - Xiaoping Zhu
- School of Pediatrics, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang City, China.
- Department of Pediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, No. 28 Guiyi Street, Yunyan District, 550004, Guiyang City, China.
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Vacharasin JM, Ward JA, McCord MM, Cox K, Imitola J, Lizarraga SB. Neuroimmune mechanisms in autism etiology - untangling a complex problem using human cellular models. OXFORD OPEN NEUROSCIENCE 2024; 3:kvae003. [PMID: 38665176 PMCID: PMC11044813 DOI: 10.1093/oons/kvae003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects 1 in 36 people and is more often diagnosed in males than in females. Core features of ASD are impaired social interactions, repetitive behaviors and deficits in verbal communication. ASD is a highly heterogeneous and heritable disorder, yet its underlying genetic causes account only for up to 80% of the cases. Hence, a subset of ASD cases could be influenced by environmental risk factors. Maternal immune activation (MIA) is a response to inflammation during pregnancy, which can lead to increased inflammatory signals to the fetus. Inflammatory signals can cross the placenta and blood brain barriers affecting fetal brain development. Epidemiological and animal studies suggest that MIA could contribute to ASD etiology. However, human mechanistic studies have been hindered by a lack of experimental systems that could replicate the impact of MIA during fetal development. Therefore, mechanisms altered by inflammation during human pre-natal brain development, and that could underlie ASD pathogenesis have been largely understudied. The advent of human cellular models with induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) and organoid technology is closing this gap in knowledge by providing both access to molecular manipulations and culturing capability of tissue that would be otherwise inaccessible. We present an overview of multiple levels of evidence from clinical, epidemiological, and cellular studies that provide a potential link between higher ASD risk and inflammation. More importantly, we discuss how stem cell-derived models may constitute an ideal experimental system to mechanistically interrogate the effect of inflammation during the early stages of brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janay M Vacharasin
- Department of Biological Sciences, and Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, Univ. of South Carolina, 715 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Francis Marion University, 4822 East Palmetto Street, Florence, S.C. 29506, USA
| | - Joseph A Ward
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, & Biochemistry, Brown University, 185 Meeting Street, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Center for Translational Neuroscience, Carney Institute of Brain Science, Brown University, 70 Ship Street, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Mikayla M McCord
- Department of Biological Sciences, and Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, Univ. of South Carolina, 715 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Kaitlin Cox
- Department of Biological Sciences, and Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, Univ. of South Carolina, 715 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Jaime Imitola
- Laboratory of Neural Stem Cells and Functional Neurogenetics, UConn Health, Departments of Neuroscience, Neurology, Genetics and Genome Sciences, UConn Health, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030-5357, USA
| | - Sofia B Lizarraga
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, & Biochemistry, Brown University, 185 Meeting Street, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Center for Translational Neuroscience, Carney Institute of Brain Science, Brown University, 70 Ship Street, Providence, RI 02903, USA
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11
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Goikolea-Vives A, Fernandes C, Thomas MSC, Thornton C, Stolp HB. Sex-specific behavioural deficits in adulthood following acute activation of the GABAA receptor in the neonatal mouse. Dev Neurosci 2024:000536641. [PMID: 38325353 DOI: 10.1159/000536641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sex differences exist in the prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Part of the aetiology of NDDs has been proposed to be alterations in the balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission, leading to the question of whether males and females respond differently to altered neurotransmitter balance. We investigated whether pharmacological alteration of GABAA signalling in early development results in sex-dependent changes in adult behaviours associated with NDDs. METHODS Male and female C57BL/6J mice received intraperitoneal injections of 0.5mg/kg muscimol or saline on postnatal days (P) 3-5 and were subjected to behavioural testing, specifically open field, light dark box, marble burying, sucralose preference, social interaction and olfactory habituation/dishabituation tests between P60-90. RESULTS Early postnatal administration of muscimol resulted in reduced anxiety in the light dark box test in both male and female adult mice. Muscimol reduced sucralose preference in males, but not females, whereas female mice showed reduced social behaviours. Regional alterations in cortical thickness were observed in the weeks following GABAA receptor activation, pointing to an evolving structural difference in the brain underlying adult behaviour. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that activation of the GABAA receptor in the first week of life resulted in long-lasting changes in a range of behaviours in adulthood following altered neurodevelopment. Sex of the individual affected the nature and severity of these abnormalities, explaining part of the varied pathophysiology and neurodevelopmental diagnosis that derive from excitatory/inhibitory imbalance.
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12
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Duarte-Campos JF, Vázquez-Moreno CN, Martínez-Marcial M, Chavarría A, Ramírez-Carreto RJ, Velasco Velázquez MA, De La Fuente-Granada M, González-Arenas A. Changes in neuroinflammatory markers and microglial density in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of the C58/J mouse model of autism. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:154-173. [PMID: 38057955 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a diverse group of neurodevelopmental conditions with complex origins. Individuals with ASD present various neurobiological abnormalities, including an altered immune response in the central nervous system and other tissues. Animal models like the C58/J inbred mouse strain are used to study biological characteristics of ASD. This strain is considered an idiopathic autism model because of its demonstrated reduced social preference and repetitive behaviours. Notably, C58/J mice exhibit alterations in dendritic arbour complexity, density and dendritic spines maturation in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC), but inflammatory-related changes have not been explored in these mice. In this study, we investigated proinflammatory markers in the hippocampus and PFC of adult male C58/J mice. We discovered elevated levels of interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) in the hippocampus, suggesting increased inflammation, alongside a reduction in the anti-inflammatory enzyme arginase 1 (ARG1). Conversely, the PFC displayed reduced levels of TNF-α and MCP-1. Microglial analysis revealed higher levels of transmembrane protein 119 (TMEM119) and increased microglial density in a region-specific manner of the autistic-like mice, particularly in the PFC and hippocampus. Additionally, an augmented expression of the fractalkine receptor CX3CR1 was observed in the hippocampus and PFC of C58/J mice. Microglial morphological analysis shows no evident changes in the hippocampus of mice with autistic-like behaviours versus wild-type strain. These region-specific changes can contribute to modulate processes like inflammation or synaptic pruning in the C58/J mouse model of idiopathic autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan F Duarte-Campos
- Departamento de Medicina Genómica y Toxicología Ambiental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - C Noé Vázquez-Moreno
- Departamento de Medicina Genómica y Toxicología Ambiental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mónica Martínez-Marcial
- Unidad de Modelos Biológicos, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Anahí Chavarría
- Unidad de Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ricardo Jair Ramírez-Carreto
- Unidad de Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Marco A Velasco Velázquez
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Marisol De La Fuente-Granada
- Departamento de Medicina Genómica y Toxicología Ambiental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Aliesha González-Arenas
- Departamento de Medicina Genómica y Toxicología Ambiental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
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13
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Bordt EA, Moya HA, Jo YC, Ravichandran CT, Bankowski IM, Ceasrine AM, McDougle CJ, Carlezon WA, Bilbo SD. Gonadal hormones impart male-biased behavioral vulnerabilities to immune activation via microglial mitochondrial function. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 115:680-695. [PMID: 37972878 PMCID: PMC10996880 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a strong male bias in the prevalence of many neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder. However, the mechanisms underlying this sex bias remain elusive. Infection during the perinatal period is associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorder development. Here, we used a mouse model of early-life immune activation that reliably induces deficits in social behaviors only in males. We demonstrate that male-biased alterations in social behavior are dependent upon microglial immune signaling and are coupled to alterations in mitochondrial morphology, gene expression, and function specifically within microglia, the innate immune cells of the brain. Additionally, we show that this behavioral and microglial mitochondrial vulnerability to early-life immune activation is programmed by the male-typical perinatal gonadal hormone surge. These findings demonstrate that social behavior in males over the lifespan are regulated by microglia-specific mechanisms that are shaped by events that occur in early development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan A Bordt
- Department of Pediatrics, Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA
| | - Haley A Moya
- Department of Pediatrics, Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA
| | - Young Chan Jo
- Department of Pediatrics, Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Caitlin T Ravichandran
- Department of Pediatrics, Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA; McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
| | - Izabella M Bankowski
- Department of Pediatrics, Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA
| | - Alexis M Ceasrine
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Christopher J McDougle
- Department of Pediatrics, Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | - Staci D Bilbo
- Department of Pediatrics, Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
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Ferrucci L, Cantando I, Cordella F, Di Angelantonio S, Ragozzino D, Bezzi P. Microglia at the Tripartite Synapse during Postnatal Development: Implications for Autism Spectrum Disorders and Schizophrenia. Cells 2023; 12:2827. [PMID: 38132147 PMCID: PMC10742295 DOI: 10.3390/cells12242827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Synapses are the fundamental structures of neural circuits that control brain functions and behavioral and cognitive processes. Synapses undergo formation, maturation, and elimination mainly during postnatal development via a complex interplay with neighboring astrocytes and microglia that, by shaping neural connectivity, may have a crucial role in the strengthening and weakening of synaptic functions, that is, the functional plasticity of synapses. Indeed, an increasing number of studies have unveiled the roles of microglia and astrocytes in synapse formation, maturation, and elimination as well as in regulating synaptic function. Over the past 15 years, the mechanisms underlying the microglia- and astrocytes-dependent regulation of synaptic plasticity have been thoroughly studied, and researchers have reported that the disruption of these glial cells in early postnatal development may underlie the cause of synaptic dysfunction that leads to neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Ferrucci
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
| | - Iva Cantando
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland;
| | - Federica Cordella
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science, IIT, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Di Angelantonio
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science, IIT, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Ragozzino
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Bezzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland;
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15
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Fan G, Ma J, Ma R, Suo M, Chen Y, Zhang S, Zeng Y, Chen Y. Microglia Modulate Neurodevelopment in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Schizophrenia. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17297. [PMID: 38139124 PMCID: PMC10743577 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) include various neurological disorders with high genetic heterogeneity, characterized by delayed or impaired cognition, communication, adaptive behavior, and psychomotor skills. These disorders result in significant morbidity for children, thus burdening families and healthcare/educational systems. However, there is a lack of early diagnosis and effective therapies. Therefore, a more connected approach is required to explore these disorders. Microglia, the primary phagocytic cells within the central nervous system, are crucial in regulating neuronal viability, influencing synaptic dynamics, and determining neurodevelopmental outcomes. Although the neurobiological basis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia (SZ) has attracted attention in recent decades, the role of microglia in ASD and SZ remains unclear and requires further discussion. In this review, the important and frequently multifaceted roles that microglia play during neurodevelopment are meticulously emphasized and potential microglial mechanisms that might be involved in conditions such as ASD and SZ are postulated. It is of utmost importance to acquire a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of the interplay between microglia and neurons to design effective, targeted therapeutic strategies to mitigate the effects of NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Yan Zeng
- Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Yushan Chen
- Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
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16
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Lopez-Ortiz AO, Eyo UB. Astrocytes and microglia in the coordination of CNS development and homeostasis. J Neurochem 2023:10.1111/jnc.16006. [PMID: 37985374 PMCID: PMC11102936 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.16006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Glia have emerged as important architects of central nervous system (CNS) development and maintenance. While traditionally glial contributions to CNS development and maintenance have been studied independently, there is growing evidence that either suggests or documents that glia may act in coordinated manners to effect developmental patterning and homeostatic functions in the CNS. In this review, we focus on astrocytes, the most abundant glia in the CNS, and microglia, the earliest glia to colonize the CNS highlighting research that documents either suggestive or established coordinated actions by these glial cells in various CNS processes including cell and/or debris clearance, neuronal survival and morphogenesis, synaptic maturation, and circuit function, angio-/vasculogenesis, myelination, and neurotransmission. Some molecular mechanisms underlying these processes that have been identified are also described. Throughout, we categorize the available evidence as either suggestive or established interactions between microglia and astrocytes in the regulation of the respective process and raise possible avenues for further research. We conclude indicating that a better understanding of coordinated astrocyte-microglial interactions in the developing and mature brain holds promise for developing effective therapies for brain pathologies where these processes are perturbed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aída Oryza Lopez-Ortiz
- Center for Brain Immunology and Glia, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Ukpong B Eyo
- Center for Brain Immunology and Glia, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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17
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Guerrin CG, Prasad K, Vazquez-Matias DA, Zheng J, Franquesa-Mullerat M, Barazzuol L, Doorduin J, de Vries EF. Prenatal infection and adolescent social adversity affect microglia, synaptic density, and behavior in male rats. Neurobiol Stress 2023; 27:100580. [PMID: 37920548 PMCID: PMC10618826 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2023.100580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal infection during pregnancy and childhood social trauma have been associated with neurodevelopmental and affective disorders, such as schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder and depression. These disorders are characterized by changes in microglial cells, which play a notable role in synaptic pruning, and synaptic deficits. Here, we investigated the effect of prenatal infection and social adversity during adolescence - either alone or in combination - on behavior, microglia, and synaptic density. Male offspring of pregnant rats injected with poly I:C, mimicking prenatal infection, were exposed to repeated social defeat during adolescence. We found that maternal infection during pregnancy prevented the reduction in social behavior and increase in anxiety induced by social adversity during adolescence. Furthermore, maternal infection and social adversity, alone or in combination, induced hyperlocomotion in adulthood. Longitudinal in vivo imaging with [11C]PBR28 positron emission tomography revealed that prenatal infection alone and social adversity during adolescence alone induced a transient increase in translocator protein TSPO density, an indicator of glial reactivity, whereas their combination induced a long-lasting increase that remained until adulthood. Furthermore, only the combination of prenatal infection and social adversity during adolescence induced an increase in microglial cell density in the frontal cortex. Prenatal infection increased proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β protein levels in hippocampus and social adversity reduced anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 protein levels in hippocampus during adulthood. This reduction in IL-10 was prevented if rats were previously exposed to prenatal infection. Adult offspring exposed to prenatal infection or adolescent social adversity had a higher synaptic density in the frontal cortex, but not hippocampus, as evaluated by synaptophysin density. Interestingly, such an increase in synaptic density was not observed in rats exposed to the combination of prenatal infection and social adversity, perhaps due to the long-lasting increase in microglial density, which may lead to an increase in microglial synaptic pruning. These findings suggest that changes in microglia activity and cytokine release induced by prenatal infection and social adversity during adolescence may be related to a reduced synaptic pruning, resulting in a higher synaptic density and behavioral changes in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyprien G.J. Guerrin
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Kavya Prasad
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Daniel A. Vazquez-Matias
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Jing Zheng
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Maria Franquesa-Mullerat
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Lara Barazzuol
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Janine Doorduin
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Erik F.J. de Vries
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
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18
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Matuleviciute R, Akinluyi ET, Muntslag TAO, Dewing JM, Long KR, Vernon AC, Tremblay ME, Menassa DA. Microglial contribution to the pathology of neurodevelopmental disorders in humans. Acta Neuropathol 2023; 146:663-683. [PMID: 37656188 PMCID: PMC10564830 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-023-02629-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Microglia are the brain's resident macrophages, which guide various developmental processes crucial for brain maturation, activity, and plasticity. Microglial progenitors enter the telencephalic wall by the 4th postconceptional week and colonise the fetal brain in a manner that spatiotemporally tracks key neurodevelopmental processes in humans. However, much of what we know about how microglia shape neurodevelopment comes from rodent studies. Multiple differences exist between human and rodent microglia warranting further focus on the human condition, particularly as microglia are emerging as critically involved in the pathological signature of various cognitive and neurodevelopmental disorders. In this article, we review the evidence supporting microglial involvement in basic neurodevelopmental processes by focusing on the human species. We next concur on the neuropathological evidence demonstrating whether and how microglia contribute to the aetiology of two neurodevelopmental disorders: autism spectrum conditions and schizophrenia. Next, we highlight how recent technologies have revolutionised our understanding of microglial biology with a focus on how these tools can help us elucidate at unprecedented resolution the links between microglia and neurodevelopmental disorders. We conclude by reviewing which current treatment approaches have shown most promise towards targeting microglia in neurodevelopmental disorders and suggest novel avenues for future consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rugile Matuleviciute
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Elizabeth T Akinluyi
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Tim A O Muntslag
- Princess Maxima Centre for Paediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Katherine R Long
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King's College London, London, UK
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Anthony C Vernon
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - David A Menassa
- Department of Neuropathology & The Queen's College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden.
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Bettag J, Goldenberg D, Carter J, Morfin S, Borsotti A, Fox J, ReVeal M, Natrop D, Gosser D, Kolli S, Jain AK. Gut Microbiota to Microglia: Microbiome Influences Neurodevelopment in the CNS. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1767. [PMID: 38002858 PMCID: PMC10670365 DOI: 10.3390/children10111767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
The brain is traditionally viewed as an immunologically privileged site; however, there are known to be multiple resident immune cells that influence the CNS environment and are reactive to extra-CNS signaling. Microglia are an important component of this system, which influences early neurodevelopment in addition to modulating inflammation and regenerative responses to injury and infection. Microglia are influenced by gut microbiome-derived metabolites, both as part of their normal function and potentially in pathological patterns that may induce neurodevelopmental disabilities or behavioral changes. This review aims to summarize the mounting evidence indicating that, not only is the Gut-Brain axis mediated by metabolites and microglia throughout an organism's lifetime, but it is also influenced prenatally by maternal microbiome and diet, which holds implications for both early neuropathology and neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffery Bettag
- Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO 63103, USA; (D.G.); (J.C.); (S.M.); (A.B.); (J.F.); (M.R.); (D.G.); (S.K.); (A.K.J.)
| | - Daniel Goldenberg
- Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO 63103, USA; (D.G.); (J.C.); (S.M.); (A.B.); (J.F.); (M.R.); (D.G.); (S.K.); (A.K.J.)
| | - Jasmine Carter
- Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO 63103, USA; (D.G.); (J.C.); (S.M.); (A.B.); (J.F.); (M.R.); (D.G.); (S.K.); (A.K.J.)
| | - Sylvia Morfin
- Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO 63103, USA; (D.G.); (J.C.); (S.M.); (A.B.); (J.F.); (M.R.); (D.G.); (S.K.); (A.K.J.)
| | - Alison Borsotti
- Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO 63103, USA; (D.G.); (J.C.); (S.M.); (A.B.); (J.F.); (M.R.); (D.G.); (S.K.); (A.K.J.)
| | - James Fox
- Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO 63103, USA; (D.G.); (J.C.); (S.M.); (A.B.); (J.F.); (M.R.); (D.G.); (S.K.); (A.K.J.)
| | - Matthew ReVeal
- Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO 63103, USA; (D.G.); (J.C.); (S.M.); (A.B.); (J.F.); (M.R.); (D.G.); (S.K.); (A.K.J.)
| | - Dylan Natrop
- Medical College of Wisconsin-Green Bay, De Pere, WI 54115, USA;
| | - David Gosser
- Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO 63103, USA; (D.G.); (J.C.); (S.M.); (A.B.); (J.F.); (M.R.); (D.G.); (S.K.); (A.K.J.)
| | - Sree Kolli
- Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO 63103, USA; (D.G.); (J.C.); (S.M.); (A.B.); (J.F.); (M.R.); (D.G.); (S.K.); (A.K.J.)
| | - Ajay K. Jain
- Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO 63103, USA; (D.G.); (J.C.); (S.M.); (A.B.); (J.F.); (M.R.); (D.G.); (S.K.); (A.K.J.)
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20
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Bukatova S, Bacova Z, Osacka J, Bakos J. Mini review of molecules involved in altered postnatal neurogenesis in autism. Int J Neurosci 2023:1-15. [PMID: 37815399 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2023.2269304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
The neurobiology of autism is complex, but emerging research points to potential abnormalities and alterations in neurogenesis. The aim of the present review is to describe the advances in the understanding of the role of selected neurotrophins, neuropeptides, and other compounds secreted by neuronal cells in the processes of postnatal neurogenesis in conjunction with autism. We characterize the fundamental mechanisms of neuronal cell proliferation, generation of major neuronal cell types with special emphasis on neurogenic niches - the subventricular zone and hippocampal areas. We also discuss changes in intracellular calcium levels and calcium-dependent transcription factors in the context of the regulation of neurogenesis and cell fate determination. To sum up, this review provides specific insight into the known association between alterations in the function of the entire spectrum of molecules involved in neurogenesis and the etiology of autism pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanislava Bukatova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Bacova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Jana Osacka
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Jan Bakos
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
- Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
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21
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Liao X, Chen M, Li Y. The glial perspective of autism spectrum disorder convergent evidence from postmortem brain and PET studies. Front Neuroendocrinol 2023; 70:101064. [PMID: 36889545 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to systematically and quantitatively review evidence derived from both postmortem brain and PET studies to explore the pathological role of glia induced neuroinflammation in the pathogenesis of ASD, and discuss the implications of these findings in relation to disease pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies. METHOD An online databases search was performed to collate postmortem studies and PET studies regarding glia induced neuroinflammation in ASD as compared to controls. Two authors independently conducted the literature search, study selection and data extraction. The discrepancies generated in these processes was resolved through robust discussions among all authors. RESULT The literature search yielded the identification of 619 records, from which 22 postmortem studies and 3 PET studies were identified as eligible for the qualitative synthesis. Meta-analysis of postmortem studies reported increased microglial number and microglia density as well as increased GFAP protein expression and GFAP mRNA expression in ASD subjects as compared to controls. Three PET studies produced different outcomes and emphasized different details, with one reported increased and two reported decreased TSPO expression in ASD subjects as compared to controls. CONCLUSION Both postmortem evidences and PET studies converged to support the involvement of glia induced neuroinflammation in the pathogenesis of ASD. The limited number of included studies along with the considerable heterogeneity of these studies prevented the development of firm conclusions and challenged the explanation of variability. Future research should prioritize the replication of current studies and the validation of current observations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Liao
- Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Nursing Teaching and Research Section, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Miao Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yamin Li
- Clinical Nursing Teaching and Research Section, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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22
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Zhang Z, Wiencke JK, Kelsey KT, Koestler DC, Molinaro AM, Pike SC, Karra P, Christensen BC, Salas LA. Hierarchical deconvolution for extensive cell type resolution in the human brain using DNA methylation. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1198243. [PMID: 37404460 PMCID: PMC10315586 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1198243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The human brain comprises heterogeneous cell types whose composition can be altered with physiological and pathological conditions. New approaches to discern the diversity and distribution of brain cells associated with neurological conditions would significantly advance the study of brain-related pathophysiology and neuroscience. Unlike single-nuclei approaches, DNA methylation-based deconvolution does not require special sample handling or processing, is cost-effective, and easily scales to large study designs. Existing DNA methylation-based methods for brain cell deconvolution are limited in the number of cell types deconvolved. Methods Using DNA methylation profiles of the top cell-type-specific differentially methylated CpGs, we employed a hierarchical modeling approach to deconvolve GABAergic neurons, glutamatergic neurons, astrocytes, microglial cells, oligodendrocytes, endothelial cells, and stromal cells. Results We demonstrate the utility of our method by applying it to data on normal tissues from various brain regions and in aging and diseased tissues, including Alzheimer's disease, autism, Huntington's disease, epilepsy, and schizophrenia. Discussion We expect that the ability to determine the cellular composition in the brain using only DNA from bulk samples will accelerate understanding brain cell type composition and cell-type-specific epigenetic states in normal and diseased brain tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - John K. Wiencke
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Karl T. Kelsey
- Department of Epidemiology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Devin C. Koestler
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Annette M. Molinaro
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Steven C. Pike
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
- Department of Neurology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Prasoona Karra
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Brock C. Christensen
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Lucas A. Salas
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
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23
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Sun Y, Che J, Zhang J. Emerging non-proinflammatory roles of microglia in healthy and diseased brains. Brain Res Bull 2023; 199:110664. [PMID: 37192719 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.110664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Microglia, the resident myeloid cells of the central nervous system, are the first line of defense against foreign pathogens, thereby confining the extent of brain injury. However, the role of microglia is not limited to macrophage-like functions. In addition to proinflammatory response mediation, microglia are involved in neurodevelopmental remodeling and homeostatic maintenance in the absence of disease. An increasing number of studies have also elucidated microglia-mediated regulation of tumor growth and neural repair in diseased brains. Here, we review the non-proinflammatory roles of microglia, with the aim of promoting a deeper understanding of the functions of microglia in healthy and diseased brains and contributing to the development of novel therapeutics that target microglia in neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinying Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 200032, Shanghai China.
| | - Ji Che
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 200032, Shanghai China.
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 200032, Shanghai China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai China.
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24
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Delorme TC, Ozell-Landry W, Cermakian N, Srivastava LK. Behavioral and cellular responses to circadian disruption and prenatal immune activation in mice. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7791. [PMID: 37179433 PMCID: PMC10182998 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34363-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Most individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders, experience disruptions in sleep and circadian rhythms. Epidemiological studies indicate that exposure to prenatal infection increases the risk of developing NDDs. We studied how environmental circadian disruption contributes to NDDs using maternal immune activation (MIA) in mice, which models prenatal infection. Pregnant dams were injected with viral mimetic poly IC (or saline) at E9.5. Adult poly IC- and saline-exposed offspring were subjected to 4 weeks of each of the following: standard lighting (LD1), constant light (LL) and standard lighting again (LD2). Behavioral tests were conducted in the last 12 days of each condition. Poly IC exposure led to significant behavioral differences, including reduced sociability (males only) and deficits in prepulse inhibition. Interestingly, poly IC exposure led to reduced sociability specifically when males were tested after LL exposure. Mice were exposed again to either LD or LL for 4 weeks and microglia were characterized. Notably, poly IC exposure led to increased microglial morphology index and density in dentate gyrus, an effect attenuated by LL exposure. Our findings highlight interactions between circadian disruption and prenatal infection, which has implications in informing the development of circadian-based therapies for individuals with NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara C Delorme
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, 6875 Boulevard LaSalle, Montréal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - William Ozell-Landry
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, 6875 Boulevard LaSalle, Montréal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada
| | - Nicolas Cermakian
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, 6875 Boulevard LaSalle, Montréal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A1, Canada.
| | - Lalit K Srivastava
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, 6875 Boulevard LaSalle, Montréal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A1, Canada.
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25
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Schafer ST, Mansour AA, Schlachetzki JCM, Pena M, Ghassemzadeh S, Mitchell L, Mar A, Quang D, Stumpf S, Ortiz IS, Lana AJ, Baek C, Zaghal R, Glass CK, Nimmerjahn A, Gage FH. An in vivo neuroimmune organoid model to study human microglia phenotypes. Cell 2023; 186:2111-2126.e20. [PMID: 37172564 PMCID: PMC10284271 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Microglia are specialized brain-resident macrophages that play crucial roles in brain development, homeostasis, and disease. However, until now, the ability to model interactions between the human brain environment and microglia has been severely limited. To overcome these limitations, we developed an in vivo xenotransplantation approach that allows us to study functionally mature human microglia (hMGs) that operate within a physiologically relevant, vascularized immunocompetent human brain organoid (iHBO) model. Our data show that organoid-resident hMGs gain human-specific transcriptomic signatures that closely resemble their in vivo counterparts. In vivo two-photon imaging reveals that hMGs actively engage in surveilling the human brain environment, react to local injuries, and respond to systemic inflammatory cues. Finally, we demonstrate that the transplanted iHBOs developed here offer the unprecedented opportunity to study functional human microglia phenotypes in health and disease and provide experimental evidence for a brain-environment-induced immune response in a patient-specific model of autism with macrocephaly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon T Schafer
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany; Center for Organoid Systems, Technical University of Munich, 85748 Garching, Germany; TranslaTUM - Organoid Hub, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany.
| | - Abed AlFatah Mansour
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; Department of Medical Neurobiology, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel.
| | - Johannes C M Schlachetzki
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Monique Pena
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany; Center for Organoid Systems, Technical University of Munich, 85748 Garching, Germany; TranslaTUM - Organoid Hub, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Saeed Ghassemzadeh
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Lisa Mitchell
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Amanda Mar
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Daphne Quang
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Sarah Stumpf
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Irene Santisteban Ortiz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany; Center for Organoid Systems, Technical University of Munich, 85748 Garching, Germany; TranslaTUM - Organoid Hub, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Addison J Lana
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Clara Baek
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Raghad Zaghal
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel
| | - Christopher K Glass
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Axel Nimmerjahn
- Waitt Advanced Biophotonics Center, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Fred H Gage
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
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26
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Damiani F, Cornuti S, Tognini P. The gut-brain connection: Exploring the influence of the gut microbiota on neuroplasticity and neurodevelopmental disorders. Neuropharmacology 2023; 231:109491. [PMID: 36924923 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Neuroplasticity refers to the ability of brain circuits to reorganize and change the properties of the network, resulting in alterations in brain function and behavior. It is traditionally believed that neuroplasticity is influenced by external stimuli, learning, and experience. Intriguingly, there is new evidence suggesting that endogenous signals from the body's periphery may play a role. The gut microbiota, a diverse community of microorganisms living in harmony with their host, may be able to influence plasticity through its modulation of the gut-brain axis. Interestingly, the maturation of the gut microbiota coincides with critical periods of neurodevelopment, during which neural circuits are highly plastic and potentially vulnerable. As such, dysbiosis (an imbalance in the gut microbiota composition) during early life may contribute to the disruption of normal developmental trajectories, leading to neurodevelopmental disorders. This review aims to examine the ways in which the gut microbiota can affect neuroplasticity. It will also discuss recent research linking gastrointestinal issues and bacterial dysbiosis to various neurodevelopmental disorders and their potential impact on neurological outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Cornuti
- Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Tognini
- Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy; Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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27
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Balbi M, Bonanno G, Bonifacino T, Milanese M. The Physio-Pathological Role of Group I Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors Expressed by Microglia in Health and Disease with a Focus on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065240. [PMID: 36982315 PMCID: PMC10048889 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Microglia cells are the resident immune cells of the central nervous system. They act as the first-line immune guardians of nervous tissue and central drivers of neuroinflammation. Any homeostatic alteration that can compromise neuron and tissue integrity could activate microglia. Once activated, microglia exhibit highly diverse phenotypes and functions related to either beneficial or harmful consequences. Microglia activation is associated with the release of protective or deleterious cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors that can in turn determine defensive or pathological outcomes. This scenario is complicated by the pathology-related specific phenotypes that microglia can assume, thus leading to the so-called disease-associated microglia phenotypes. Microglia express several receptors that regulate the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory features, sometimes exerting opposite actions on microglial functions according to specific conditions. In this context, group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are molecular structures that may contribute to the modulation of the reactive phenotype of microglia cells, and this is worthy of exploration. Here, we summarize the role of group I mGluRs in shaping microglia cells' phenotype in specific physio-pathological conditions, including some neurodegenerative disorders. A significant section of the review is specifically focused on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) since it represents an entirely unexplored topic of research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilde Balbi
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
| | - Giambattista Bonanno
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bonifacino
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), 56122 Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Milanese
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy
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28
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Innate immune dysfunction and neuroinflammation in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Brain Behav Immun 2023; 108:245-254. [PMID: 36494048 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by communication and social behavior deficits. The presence of restricted and repetitive behaviors often accompanies these deficits, and these characteristics can range from mild to severe. The past several decades have seen a significant rise in the prevalence of ASD. The etiology of ASD remains unknown; however, genetic and environmental risk factors play a role. Multiple hypotheses converge to suggest that neuroinflammation, or at least the interaction between immune and neural systems, may be involved in the etiology of some ASD cases or groups. Repeated evidence of innate immune dysfunction has been seen in ASD, often associated with worsening behaviors. This evidence includes data from circulating myeloid cells and brain resident macrophages/microglia in both human and animal models. This comprehensive review presents recent findings of innate immune dysfunction in ASD, including aberrant innate cellular function, evidence of neuroinflammation, and microglia activation.
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29
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Kumar S, Mehan S, Narula AS. Therapeutic modulation of JAK-STAT, mTOR, and PPAR-γ signaling in neurological dysfunctions. J Mol Med (Berl) 2023; 101:9-49. [PMID: 36478124 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-022-02272-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The cytokine-activated Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) cascade is a pleiotropic pathway that involves receptor subunit multimerization. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a ubiquitously expressed serine-threonine kinase that perceives and integrates a variety of intracellular and environmental stimuli to regulate essential activities such as cell development and metabolism. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ) is a prototypical metabolic nuclear receptor involved in neural differentiation and axon polarity. The JAK-STAT, mTOR, and PPARγ signaling pathways serve as a highly conserved signaling hub that coordinates neuronal activity and brain development. Additionally, overactivation of JAK/STAT, mTOR, and inhibition of PPARγ signaling have been linked to various neurocomplications, including neuroinflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. Emerging research suggests that even minor disruptions in these cellular and molecular processes can have significant consequences manifested as neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases. Of interest, target modulators have been proven to alleviate neuronal complications associated with acute and chronic neurological deficits. This research-based review explores the therapeutic role of JAK-STAT, mTOR, and PPARγ signaling modulators in preventing neuronal dysfunctions in preclinical and clinical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Kumar
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Punjab, Moga, India
| | - Sidharth Mehan
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Punjab, Moga, India.
| | - Acharan S Narula
- Narula Research, LLC, 107 Boulder Bluff, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516, USA
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30
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Inflammation and the Potential Implication of Macrophage-Microglia Polarization in Human ASD: An Overview. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032703. [PMID: 36769026 PMCID: PMC9916462 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous collection of neurodevelopmental disorders, difficult to diagnose and currently lacking treatment options. The possibility of finding reliable biomarkers useful for early identification would offer the opportunity to intervene with treatment strategies to improve the life quality of ASD patients. To date, there are many recognized risk factors for the development of ASD, both genetic and non-genetic. Although genetic and epigenetic factors may play a critical role, the extent of their contribution to ASD risk is still under study. On the other hand, non-genetic risk factors include pollution, nutrition, infection, psychological states, and lifestyle, all together known as the exposome, which impacts the mother's and fetus's life, especially during pregnancy. Pathogenic and non-pathogenic maternal immune activation (MIA) and autoimmune diseases can cause various alterations in the fetal environment, also contributing to the etiology of ASD in offspring. Activation of monocytes, macrophages, mast cells and microglia and high production of pro-inflammatory cytokines are indeed the cause of neuroinflammation, and the latter is involved in ASD's onset and development. In this review, we focused on non-genetic risk factors, especially on the connection between inflammation, macrophage polarization and ASD syndrome, MIA, and the involvement of microglia.
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Dutra ML, Dias P, Freiberger V, Ventura L, Comim CM, Martins DF, Bobinski F. Maternal immune activation induces autism-like behavior and reduces brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels in the hippocampus and offspring cortex of C57BL/6 mice. Neurosci Lett 2023; 793:136974. [PMID: 36414133 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2022.136974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal factors such as viral or bacterial infections occurring mainly during the first trimesters of pregnancy can increase the incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children. In an animal model, it is already known that maternal immune activation (MIA) induces autistic-like behavior. However, it is unclear whether this behavior presents itself in young animals. In this preclinical experimental study, we investigated in the offspring of C57BL/6 female mice submitted to MIA with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), typically altered behaviors in ASD, such as social interaction and stereotyped self-grooming movement, as well as the levels of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and interleukin 17A (IL-17A) in the hippocampus and cortex, at 28 and 60 days. Adult animals aged 60 days, offspring of females submitted to MIA, showed a decrease in the time of social interaction and an increase in the number of self-cleaning movements. In the hippocampus of the offspring of females submitted to MIA, a decrease in BDNF levels was found at 28 days and 60 days of life, and a decrease in IL-17A levels only at 60 days. The levels of BDNF and IL-17A did not change in the cortex of the offspring of mice submitted to MIA at the evaluated times. Young animals aged 28 days still showed typical behavior, without social deficits and stereotyped movements that characterize ASD, which suggests that at this age it is still not possible to observe the repercussions of MIA in this model. In the neurochemical issues of the hippocampal region, impairment of BDNF levels has already been demonstrated, which may be an important factor for the observation of ASD-like behaviors in adult mice at 60 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matheus Luchini Dutra
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx), Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNISUL), Palhoça, 88137-270 Santa Catarina, Brazil; Research Group in Neurodevelopment of Childhood and Adolescence, Laboratory of Experimental Neuroscience, Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, UNISUL, Palhoça, 88137-270 Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Paula Dias
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx), Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNISUL), Palhoça, 88137-270 Santa Catarina, Brazil; Research Group in Neurodevelopment of Childhood and Adolescence, Laboratory of Experimental Neuroscience, Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, UNISUL, Palhoça, 88137-270 Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Viviane Freiberger
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx), Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNISUL), Palhoça, 88137-270 Santa Catarina, Brazil; Research Group in Neurodevelopment of Childhood and Adolescence, Laboratory of Experimental Neuroscience, Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, UNISUL, Palhoça, 88137-270 Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Leticia Ventura
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx), Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNISUL), Palhoça, 88137-270 Santa Catarina, Brazil; Research Group in Neurodevelopment of Childhood and Adolescence, Laboratory of Experimental Neuroscience, Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, UNISUL, Palhoça, 88137-270 Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Clarissa Martinelli Comim
- Research Group in Neurodevelopment of Childhood and Adolescence, Laboratory of Experimental Neuroscience, Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, UNISUL, Palhoça, 88137-270 Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Daniel Fernandes Martins
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx), Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNISUL), Palhoça, 88137-270 Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Franciane Bobinski
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx), Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNISUL), Palhoça, 88137-270 Santa Catarina, Brazil.
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32
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Breach MR, Lenz KM. Sex Differences in Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Key Role for the Immune System. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2023; 62:165-206. [PMID: 35435643 PMCID: PMC10286778 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2022_308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Sex differences are prominent defining features of neurodevelopmental disorders. Understanding the sex biases in these disorders can shed light on mechanisms leading to relative risk and resilience for the disorders, as well as more broadly advance our understanding of how sex differences may relate to brain development. The prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders is increasing, and the two most common neurodevelopmental disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) exhibit male-biases in prevalence rates and sex differences in symptomology. While the causes of neurodevelopmental disorders and their sex differences remain to be fully understood, increasing evidence suggests that the immune system plays a critical role in shaping development. In this chapter we discuss sex differences in prevalence and symptomology of ASD and ADHD, review sexual differentiation and immune regulation of neurodevelopment, and discuss findings from human and rodent studies of immune dysregulation and perinatal immune perturbation as they relate to potential mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders. This chapter will give an overview of how understanding sex differences in neuroimmune function in the context of neurodevelopmental disorders could lend insight into their etiologies and better treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela R Breach
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kathryn M Lenz
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
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33
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Mahony C, O'Ryan C. A molecular framework for autistic experiences: Mitochondrial allostatic load as a mediator between autism and psychopathology. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:985713. [PMID: 36506457 PMCID: PMC9732262 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.985713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular autism research is evolving toward a biopsychosocial framework that is more informed by autistic experiences. In this context, research aims are moving away from correcting external autistic behaviors and toward alleviating internal distress. Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASCs) are associated with high rates of depression, suicidality and other comorbid psychopathologies, but this relationship is poorly understood. Here, we integrate emerging characterizations of internal autistic experiences within a molecular framework to yield insight into the prevalence of psychopathology in ASC. We demonstrate that descriptions of social camouflaging and autistic burnout resonate closely with the accepted definitions for early life stress (ELS) and chronic adolescent stress (CAS). We propose that social camouflaging could be considered a distinct form of CAS that contributes to allostatic overload, culminating in a pathophysiological state that is experienced as autistic burnout. Autistic burnout is thought to contribute to psychopathology via psychological and physiological mechanisms, but these remain largely unexplored by molecular researchers. Building on converging fields in molecular neuroscience, we discuss the substantial evidence implicating mitochondrial dysfunction in ASC to propose a novel role for mitochondrial allostatic load in the relationship between autism and psychopathology. An interplay between mitochondrial, neuroimmune and neuroendocrine signaling is increasingly implicated in stress-related psychopathologies, and these molecular players are also associated with neurodevelopmental, neurophysiological and neurochemical aspects of ASC. Together, this suggests an increased exposure and underlying molecular susceptibility to ELS that increases the risk of psychopathology in ASC. This article describes an integrative framework shaped by autistic experiences that highlights novel avenues for molecular research into mechanisms that directly affect the quality of life and wellbeing of autistic individuals. Moreover, this framework emphasizes the need for increased access to diagnoses, accommodations, and resources to improve mental health outcomes in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Colleen O'Ryan
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Abstract
The mammalian gut contains a large, complex community of microorganisms collectively termed the microbiota. It is increasingly appreciated that gut microbes are closely integrated into mammalian physiology, participating in metabolic symbiosis, promoting immune function and signaling to a wide variety of distant cells, including the brain, via circulating metabolites. Recent advances indicate that microglia, the brain's resident immune cells, are influenced by microbial metabolites at all stages of life, under both physiological and pathological conditions. The pathways by which microbiota regulate microglial function are therefore of interest for investigating links between neurological disorders and gut microbiome changes. In this review, we discuss the effects and mechanisms of microbiota-microglia signaling in steady state, as well as evidence for the involvement of this signaling axis in CNS pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Cook
- Institute of Neuropathology, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany,CONTACT James Cook
| | - Marco Prinz
- Institute of Neuropathology, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany,Centre for NeuroModulation (Neuromodbasics), University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany,Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany,Marco Prinz Institute of Neuropathology, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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35
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Conrow-Graham M, Williams JB, Martin J, Zhong P, Cao Q, Rein B, Yan Z. A convergent mechanism of high risk factors ADNP and POGZ in neurodevelopmental disorders. Brain 2022; 145:3250-3263. [PMID: 35775424 PMCID: PMC10233273 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awac152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
ADNP and POGZ are two top-ranking risk factors for autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability, but how they are linked to these neurodevelopmental disorders is largely unknown. Both ADNP and POGZ are chromatin regulators, which could profoundly affect gene transcription and cellular function in the brain. Using post-mortem tissue from patients with autism spectrum disorder, we found diminished expression of ADNP and POGZ in the prefrontal cortex, a region highly implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders. To understand the functional role of these neurodevelopmental disorder risk factors, we used viral-based gene transfer to investigate how Adnp or Pogz deficiency in mouse prefrontal cortex affects behavioural, transcriptomic and synaptic function. Mice with prefrontal cortex deficiency of Adnp or Pogz exhibited specific impairment of cognitive task performance. RNA-sequencing revealed that Adnp or Pogz deficiency induced prominent upregulation of overlapping genes enriched in neuroinflammation, similar to the elevation of pro-inflammatory genes in humans with neurodevelopmental disorders. Concomitantly, Adnp or Pogz deficiency led to the significant increase of pro-phagocytic microglial activation in prefrontal cortex, as well as the significant decrease of glutamatergic transmission and postsynaptic protein expression. These findings have uncovered the convergent functions of two top risk factors for autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability in prefrontal cortex, providing a mechanism linking chromatin, transcriptional and synaptic dysregulation to cognitive deficits associated with neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Conrow-Graham
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Jamal B Williams
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Jennifer Martin
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Ping Zhong
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Qing Cao
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Benjamin Rein
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Zhen Yan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
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36
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Menassa DA, Muntslag TAO, Martin-Estebané M, Barry-Carroll L, Chapman MA, Adorjan I, Tyler T, Turnbull B, Rose-Zerilli MJJ, Nicoll JAR, Krsnik Z, Kostovic I, Gomez-Nicola D. The spatiotemporal dynamics of microglia across the human lifespan. Dev Cell 2022; 57:2127-2139.e6. [PMID: 35977545 PMCID: PMC9616795 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2022.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Microglia, the brain's resident macrophages, shape neural development and are key neuroimmune hubs in the pathological signatures of neurodevelopmental disorders. Despite the importance of microglia, their development has not been carefully examined in the human brain, and most of our knowledge derives from rodents. We aimed to address this gap in knowledge by establishing an extensive collection of 97 post-mortem tissues in order to enable quantitative, sex-matched, detailed analysis of microglia across the human lifespan. We identify the dynamics of these cells in the human telencephalon, describing waves in microglial density across gestation, infancy, and childhood, controlled by a balance of proliferation and apoptosis, which track key neurodevelopmental milestones. These profound changes in microglia are also observed in bulk RNA-seq and single-cell RNA-seq datasets. This study provides a detailed insight into the spatiotemporal dynamics of microglia across the human lifespan and serves as a foundation for elucidating how microglia contribute to shaping neurodevelopment in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Menassa
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Tim A O Muntslag
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Martin-Estebané
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Liam Barry-Carroll
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Mark A Chapman
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Istvan Adorjan
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Teadora Tyler
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Bethany Turnbull
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | | | - James A R Nicoll
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Zeljka Krsnik
- Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb Medical School, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivica Kostovic
- Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb Medical School, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Diego Gomez-Nicola
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.
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37
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Brisch R, Wojtylak S, Saniotis A, Steiner J, Gos T, Kumaratilake J, Henneberg M, Wolf R. The role of microglia in neuropsychiatric disorders and suicide. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2022; 272:929-945. [PMID: 34595576 PMCID: PMC9388452 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-021-01334-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This narrative review examines the possible role of microglial cells, first, in neuroinflammation and, second, in schizophrenia, depression, and suicide. Recent research on the interactions between microglia, astrocytes and neurons and their involvement in pathophysiological processes of neuropsychiatric disorders is presented. This review focuses on results from postmortem, positron emission tomography (PET) imaging studies, and animal models of schizophrenia and depression. Third, the effects of antipsychotic and antidepressant drug therapy, and of electroconvulsive therapy on microglial cells are explored and the upcoming development of therapeutic drugs targeting microglia is described. Finally, there is a discussion on the role of microglia in the evolutionary progression of human lineage. This view may contribute to a new understanding of neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Brisch
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Szymon Wojtylak
- Department of Pathomorphology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Arthur Saniotis
- Department of Anthropology, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
- Department of Pharmacy, Knowledge University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Johann Steiner
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Otto-von-Guericke-University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Tomasz Gos
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Jaliya Kumaratilake
- Biological Anthropology and Comparative Anatomy Research Unit, Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Maciej Henneberg
- Biological Anthropology and Comparative Anatomy Research Unit, Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Institute of Evolutionary Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Rainer Wolf
- Department of Nursing and Health, Hochschule Fulda, University of Applied Sciences, Fulda, Germany.
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Abstract
Mounting evidence indicates that microglia, which are the resident immune cells of the brain, play critical roles in a diverse array of neurodevelopmental processes required for proper brain maturation and function. This evidence has ultimately led to growing speculation that microglial dysfunction may play a role in neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) pathoetiology. In this review, we first provide an overview of how microglia mechanistically contribute to the sculpting of the developing brain and neuronal circuits. To provide an example of how disruption of microglial biology impacts NDD development, we also highlight emerging evidence that has linked microglial dysregulation to autism spectrum disorder pathogenesis. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in how the gut microbiome shapes microglial biology. In the last section of this review, we put a spotlight on this burgeoning area of microglial research and discuss how microbiota-dependent modulation of microglial biology is currently thought to influence NDD progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R Lukens
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA;
- Center for Brain Immunology and Glia, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Ukpong B Eyo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA;
- Center for Brain Immunology and Glia, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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39
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Wang H, He Y, Sun Z, Ren S, Liu M, Wang G, Yang J. Microglia in depression: an overview of microglia in the pathogenesis and treatment of depression. J Neuroinflammation 2022; 19:132. [PMID: 35668399 PMCID: PMC9168645 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-022-02492-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder is a highly debilitating psychiatric disorder involving the dysfunction of different cell types in the brain. Microglia are the predominant resident immune cells in the brain and exhibit a critical role in depression. Recent studies have suggested that depression can be regarded as a microglial disease. Microglia regulate inflammation, synaptic plasticity, and the formation of neural networks, all of which affect depression. In this review, we highlighted the role of microglia in the pathology of depression. First, we described microglial activation in animal models and clinically depressed patients. Second, we emphasized the possible mechanisms by which microglia recognize depression-associated stress and regulate conditions. Third, we described how antidepressants (clinical medicines and natural products) affect microglial activation. Thus, this review aimed to objectively analyze the role of microglia in depression and focus on potential antidepressants. These data suggested that regulation of microglial actions might be a novel therapeutic strategy to counteract the adverse effects of devastating mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixia Wang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, 5 Ankang Lane, Dewai Avenue, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100088, China.,Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, 10 Xi tou tiao, You An Men Wai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Yi He
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, 5 Ankang Lane, Dewai Avenue, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100088, China.,Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, 10 Xi tou tiao, You An Men Wai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Zuoli Sun
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, 5 Ankang Lane, Dewai Avenue, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100088, China.,Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, 10 Xi tou tiao, You An Men Wai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Siyu Ren
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, 5 Ankang Lane, Dewai Avenue, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100088, China.,Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, 10 Xi tou tiao, You An Men Wai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Mingxia Liu
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, 5 Ankang Lane, Dewai Avenue, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100088, China.,Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, 10 Xi tou tiao, You An Men Wai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Gang Wang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, 5 Ankang Lane, Dewai Avenue, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100088, China. .,Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, 10 Xi tou tiao, You An Men Wai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China.
| | - Jian Yang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, 5 Ankang Lane, Dewai Avenue, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100088, China. .,Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, 10 Xi tou tiao, You An Men Wai, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100069, China.
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40
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In vivo imaging translocator protein (TSPO) in autism spectrum disorder. Neuropsychopharmacology 2022; 47:1421-1427. [PMID: 35383319 PMCID: PMC9117200 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-022-01306-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Converging evidence points to the significant involvement of the immune system in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Positron emission tomography (PET) can quantify translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO), a marker with increased expression mainly in microglia and, to some extent astroglia during neuropsychiatric diseases with inflammation. This preliminary analysis explored, for the first time, whether TSPO binding was altered in male and female participants with ASD in vivo using full kinetic quantification. Thirteen individuals with ASD (IQ > 70 [n = 12], IQ = 62 [n = 1]), 5 F, 25 ± 5 years) were scanned with [18F]FEPPA PET. Data from 13 typically developing control participants with matching age and TSPO rs6971 polymorphism (9 F, age 24 ± 5 years) were chosen from previous studies for comparison. The two tissue compartment model (2TCM) was used to determine the total volume of distribution ([18F]FEPPA VT) in four previously identified regions of interest (ROI): prefrontal, temporal, cerebellar, and anterior cingulate cortices. We observe no significant difference in [18F]FEPPA VT relative to controls (F(1,26)= 1.74, p = 0.20). However, 2 ASD participants with higher VT had concurrent major depressive episodes (MDE), which has been consistently reported during MDE. After excluding those 2 ASD participants, in a post-hoc analysis, our results show lower [18F]FEPPA VT in ASD participants compared to controls (F(1,24)= 6.62, p = 0.02). This preliminary analysis provides evidence suggesting an atypical neuroimmune state in ASD.
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41
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Lv H, Gu X, Shan X, Zhu T, Ma B, Zhang HT, Bambini-Junior V, Zhang T, Li WG, Gao X, Li F. Nanoformulated Bumetanide Ameliorates Social Deficiency in BTBR Mice Model of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Immunol 2022; 13:870577. [PMID: 35693812 PMCID: PMC9179025 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.870577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder with few medication options. Bumetanide, an FDA-approved diuretic, has been proposed as a viable candidate to treat core symptoms of ASD, however, neither the brain region related to its effect nor the cell-specific mechanism(s) is clear. The availability of nanoparticles provides a viable way to identify pharmacological mechanisms for use in ASD. Here, we found that treatment with bumetanide, in a systemic and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) region-specific way, attenuated social deficits in BTBR mice. Furthermore, using poly (ethylene glycol)-poly(l-lactide) (PEG-PLA) nanoparticles [NP(bumetanide)], we showed that the administration of NP(bumetanide) in a mPFC region-specific way also alleviated the social deficits of BTBR mice. Mechanistically, the behavioral effect of NP(bumetanide) was dependent on selective microglia-specific targeting in the mPFC. Pharmacological depletion of microglia significantly reduced the effect of nanoencapsulation and depletion of microglia alone did not improve the social deficits in BTBR mice. These findings suggest the potential therapeutic capabilities of nanotechnology for ASD, as well as the relevant link between bumetanide and immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Lv
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatric & Child Primary Care, Brain and Behavioural Research Unit of Shanghai Institute for Pediatric Research and Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory for Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Gu
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Universities Collaborative Innovation Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xingyue Shan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics (Ministry of Education), School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tailin Zhu
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatric & Child Primary Care, Brain and Behavioural Research Unit of Shanghai Institute for Pediatric Research and Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory for Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bingke Ma
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics (Ministry of Education), School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao-Tian Zhang
- Brain and Behavioral Research Unit of Shanghai Institute for Pediatric Research and Ministry of Education (MOE)-Shanghai Key Laboratory for Children’s Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Victorio Bambini-Junior
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Tiantian Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics (Ministry of Education), School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Guang Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Institute for Translational Brain Research, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and Ministry of Education Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoling Gao
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Shanghai Universities Collaborative Innovation Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Fei Li, ; Xiaoling Gao,
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatric & Child Primary Care, Brain and Behavioural Research Unit of Shanghai Institute for Pediatric Research and Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory for Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Fei Li, ; Xiaoling Gao,
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42
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Kurematsu C, Sawada M, Ohmuraya M, Tanaka M, Kuboyama K, Ogino T, Matsumoto M, Oishi H, Inada H, Ishido Y, Sakakibara Y, Nguyen HB, Thai TQ, Kohsaka S, Ohno N, Yamada MK, Asai M, Sokabe M, Nabekura J, Asano K, Tanaka M, Sawamoto K. Synaptic pruning of murine adult-born neurons by microglia depends on phosphatidylserine. J Exp Med 2022; 219:213073. [PMID: 35297954 PMCID: PMC9195048 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20202304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
New neurons, continuously added in the adult olfactory bulb (OB) and hippocampus, are involved in information processing in neural circuits. Here, we show that synaptic pruning of adult-born neurons by microglia depends on phosphatidylserine (PS), whose exposure on dendritic spines is inversely correlated with their input activity. To study the role of PS in spine pruning by microglia in vivo, we developed an inducible transgenic mouse line, in which the exposed PS is masked by a dominant-negative form of milk fat globule-EGF-factor 8 (MFG-E8), MFG-E8D89E. In this transgenic mouse, the spine pruning of adult-born neurons by microglia is impaired in the OB and hippocampus. Furthermore, the electrophysiological properties of these adult-born neurons are altered in MFG-E8D89E mice. These data suggest that PS is involved in the microglial spine pruning and the functional maturation of adult-born neurons. The MFG-E8D89E-based genetic approach shown in this study has broad applications for understanding the biology of PS-mediated phagocytosis in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chihiro Kurematsu
- Department of Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Institute of Brain Science, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Masato Sawada
- Department of Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Institute of Brain Science, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan.,Division of Neural Development and Regeneration, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Masaki Ohmuraya
- Department of Genetics, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Motoki Tanaka
- Department of Disease Model, Institute for Developmental Research, Aichi Developmental Disability Center, Kasugai, Japan
| | - Kazuya Kuboyama
- Department of Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Institute of Brain Science, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Takashi Ogino
- Department of Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Institute of Brain Science, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Mami Matsumoto
- Department of Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Institute of Brain Science, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan.,Section of Electron Microscopy, Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Hisashi Oishi
- Department of Comparative and Experimental Medicine, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Inada
- Division of Homeostatic Development, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Yuri Ishido
- Department of Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Institute of Brain Science, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yukina Sakakibara
- Department of Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Institute of Brain Science, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Huy Bang Nguyen
- Section of Electron Microscopy, Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan.,Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Truc Quynh Thai
- Section of Electron Microscopy, Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan.,Department of Histology-Embryology-Genetics, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Shinichi Kohsaka
- National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko Ohno
- Department of Anatomy, Division of Histology and Cell Biology, Jichi Medical University, School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan.,Division of Ultrastructural Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Maki K Yamada
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Kagawa School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Institute of Neuroscience, Tokushima Bunri University, Sanuki, Japan
| | - Masato Asai
- Department of Disease Model, Institute for Developmental Research, Aichi Developmental Disability Center, Kasugai, Japan
| | - Masahiro Sokabe
- Mechanobiology Laboratory, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Junichi Nabekura
- Division of Homeostatic Development, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Kenichi Asano
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Japan
| | - Masato Tanaka
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Japan
| | - Kazunobu Sawamoto
- Department of Developmental and Regenerative Neurobiology, Institute of Brain Science, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan.,Division of Neural Development and Regeneration, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
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43
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Liu KE, Raymond MH, Ravichandran KS, Kucenas S. Clearing Your Mind: Mechanisms of Debris Clearance After Cell Death During Neural Development. Annu Rev Neurosci 2022; 45:177-198. [PMID: 35226828 PMCID: PMC10157384 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-neuro-110920-022431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopment and efferocytosis have fascinated scientists for decades. How an organism builds a nervous system that is precisely tuned for efficient behaviors and survival and how it simultaneously manages constant somatic cell turnover are complex questions that have resulted in distinct fields of study. Although neurodevelopment requires the overproduction of cells that are subsequently pruned back, very few studies marry these fields to elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive nervous system development through the lens of cell clearance. In this review, we discuss these fields to highlight exciting areas of future synergy. We first review neurodevelopment from the perspective of overproduction and subsequent refinement and then discuss who clears this developmental debris and the mechanisms that control these events. We then end with how a more deliberate merger of neurodevelopment and efferocytosis could reframe our understanding of homeostasis and disease and discuss areas of future study. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Neuroscience, Volume 45 is July 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendra E Liu
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA; .,Program in Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Michael H Raymond
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA; .,Center for Clearance, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Kodi S Ravichandran
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA; .,Center for Clearance, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.,Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.,VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research and the Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sarah Kucenas
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA; .,Program in Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.,Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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44
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Panisi C, Marini M. Dynamic and Systemic Perspective in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Change of Gaze in Research Opens to A New Landscape of Needs and Solutions. Brain Sci 2022; 12:250. [PMID: 35204013 PMCID: PMC8870276 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12020250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The first step for a harmonious bio-psycho-social framework in approaching autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is overcoming the conflict between the biological and the psychosocial perspective. Biological research can provide clues for a correct approach to clinical practice, assuming that it would lead to the conceptualization of a pathogenetic paradigm able to account for epidemiologic and clinical findings. The upward trajectory in ASD prevalence and the systemic involvement of other organs besides the brain suggest that the epigenetic paradigm is the most plausible one. The embryo-fetal period is the crucial window of opportunity for keeping neurodevelopment on the right tracks, suggesting that women's health in pregnancy should be a priority. Maladaptive molecular pathways beginning in utero, in particular, a vicious circle between the immune response, oxidative stress/mitochondrial dysfunction, and dysbiosis-impact neurodevelopment and brain functioning across the lifespan and are the basis for progressive multisystemic disorders that account for the substantial health loss and the increased mortality in ASD. Therefore, the biological complexity of ASD and its implications for health requires the enhancement of clinical skills on these topics, to achieve an effective multi-disciplinary healthcare model. Well-balanced training courses could be a promising starting point to make a change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Panisi
- Fondazione Istituto Sacra Famiglia ONLUS, Cesano Boscone, 20090 Milan, Italy
| | - Marina Marini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
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45
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Chokr SM, Milinkeviciute G, Cramer KS. Synapse Maturation and Developmental Impairment in the Medial Nucleus of the Trapezoid Body. Front Integr Neurosci 2022; 16:804221. [PMID: 35221938 PMCID: PMC8863736 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2022.804221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Sound localization requires rapid interpretation of signal speed, intensity, and frequency. Precise neurotransmission of auditory signals relies on specialized auditory brainstem synapses including the calyx of Held, the large encapsulating input to principal neurons in the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body (MNTB). During development, synapses in the MNTB are established, eliminated, and strengthened, thereby forming an excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) synapse profile. However, in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), E/I neurotransmission is altered, and auditory phenotypes emerge anatomically, molecularly, and functionally. Here we review factors required for normal synapse development in this auditory brainstem pathway and discuss how it is affected by mutations in ASD-linked genes.
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46
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Hu C, Li H, Li J, Luo X, Hao Y. Microglia: Synaptic modulator in autism spectrum disorder. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:958661. [PMID: 36465285 PMCID: PMC9714329 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.958661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by variable impairment of social communication and repetitive behaviors, highly restricted interests, and/or sensory behaviors beginning early in life. Many individuals with ASD have dysfunction of microglia, which may be closely related to neuroinflammation, making microglia play an important role in the pathogenesis of ASD. Mounting evidence indicates that microglia, the resident immune cells of the brain, are required for proper brain function, especially in the maintenance of neuronal circuitry and control of behavior. Dysfunction of microglia will ultimately affect the neural function in a variety of ways, including the formation of synapses and alteration of excitatory-inhibitory balance. In this review, we provide an overview of how microglia actively interact with neurons in physiological conditions and modulate the fate and functions of synapses. We put a spotlight on the multi-dimensional neurodevelopmental roles of microglia, especially in the essential influence of synapses, and discuss how microglia are currently thought to influence ASD progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Hu
- Division of Child Healthcare, Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Heli Li
- Division of Child Healthcare, Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinhui Li
- Division of Child Healthcare, Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoping Luo
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Hao
- Division of Child Healthcare, Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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47
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Brusov O, Klyushnik T, Zozulya S, Karpova N, Shilov Y, Nikitina S, Simashkova N. Paired and partial correlations of immune parameters of neuro-immuno-test and coagulation parameters of thrombodynamics test in children with children’s autism. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2022; 122:68-73. [DOI: 10.17116/jnevro202212209268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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48
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Bauss J, Morris M, Shankar R, Olivero R, Buck LN, Stenger CL, Hinds D, Mills J, Eby A, Zagorski JW, Smith C, Cline S, Hartog NL, Chen B, Huss J, Carcillo JA, Rajasekaran S, Bupp CP, Prokop JW. CCR5 and Biological Complexity: The Need for Data Integration and Educational Materials to Address Genetic/Biological Reductionism at the Interface of Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications. Front Immunol 2021; 12:790041. [PMID: 34925370 PMCID: PMC8674737 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.790041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In the age of genomics, public understanding of complex scientific knowledge is critical. To combat reductionistic views, it is necessary to generate and organize educational material and data that keep pace with advances in genomics. The view that CCR5 is solely the receptor for HIV gave rise to demand to remove the gene in patients to create host HIV resistance, underestimating the broader roles and complex genetic inheritance of CCR5. A program aimed at providing research projects to undergraduates, known as CODE, has been expanded to build educational material for genes such as CCR5 in a rapid approach, exposing students and trainees to large bioinformatics databases and previous experiments for broader data to challenge commitment to biological reductionism. Our students organize expression databases, query environmental responses, assess genetic factors, generate protein models/dynamics, and profile evolutionary insights into a protein such as CCR5. The knowledgebase generated in the initiative opens the door for public educational information and tools (molecular videos, 3D printed models, and handouts), classroom materials, and strategy for future genetic ideas that can be distributed in formal, semiformal, and informal educational environments. This work highlights that many factors are missing from the reductionist view of CCR5, including the role of missense variants or expression of CCR5 with neurological phenotypes and the role of CCR5 and the delta32 variant in complex critical care patients with sepsis. When connected to genomic stories in the news, these tools offer critically needed Ethical, Legal, and Social Implication (ELSI) education to combat biological reductionism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Bauss
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Michele Morris
- HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL, United States
| | - Rama Shankar
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Rosemary Olivero
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Infectious Disease, Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Leah N Buck
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Department of Mathematics, University of North Alabama, Florence, AL, United States
| | - Cynthia L Stenger
- Department of Mathematics, University of North Alabama, Florence, AL, United States
| | - David Hinds
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL, United States
| | - Joshua Mills
- Department of Biology, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, MI, United States
| | - Alexandra Eby
- Department of Science, Davenport University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Joseph W Zagorski
- Office of Research, Spectrum Health, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Caitlin Smith
- Department of Biology, Athens State University, Athens, AL, United States
| | - Sara Cline
- Department of Biology, Athens State University, Athens, AL, United States
| | - Nicholas L Hartog
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Allergy & Immunology, Spectrum Health, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Bin Chen
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - John Huss
- Department of Philosophy, The University of Akron, Akron, OH, United States
| | - Joseph A Carcillo
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Surender Rajasekaran
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Office of Research, Spectrum Health, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Caleb P Bupp
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Medical Genetics, Spectrum Health, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Jeremy W Prokop
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, United States.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
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49
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Aramideh JA, Vidal-Itriago A, Morsch M, Graeber MB. Cytokine Signalling at the Microglial Penta-Partite Synapse. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413186. [PMID: 34947983 PMCID: PMC8708012 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglial cell processes form part of a subset of synaptic contacts that have been dubbed microglial tetra-partite or quad-partite synapses. Since tetrapartite may also refer to the presence of extracellular matrix components, we propose the more precise term microglial penta-partite synapse for synapses that show a microglial cell process in close physical proximity to neuronal and astrocytic synaptic constituents. Microglial cells are now recognised as key players in central nervous system (CNS) synaptic changes. When synaptic plasticity involving microglial penta-partite synapses occurs, microglia may utilise their cytokine arsenal to facilitate the generation of new synapses, eliminate those that are not needed anymore, or modify the molecular and structural properties of the remaining synaptic contacts. In addition, microglia–synapse contacts may develop de novo under pathological conditions. Microglial penta-partite synapses have received comparatively little attention as unique sites in the CNS where microglial cells, cytokines and other factors they release have a direct influence on the connections between neurons and their function. It concerns our understanding of the penta-partite synapse where the confusion created by the term “neuroinflammation” is most counterproductive. The mere presence of activated microglia or the release of their cytokines may occur independent of inflammation, and penta-partite synapses are not usually active in a neuroimmunological sense. Clarification of these details is the main purpose of this review, specifically highlighting the relationship between microglia, synapses, and the cytokines that can be released by microglial cells in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Abbas Aramideh
- Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
| | - Andres Vidal-Itriago
- Faculty of Medicine, Health & Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia; (A.V.-I.); (M.M.)
| | - Marco Morsch
- Faculty of Medicine, Health & Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia; (A.V.-I.); (M.M.)
| | - Manuel B. Graeber
- Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
- Correspondence:
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50
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The Effect of Valproic Acid Exposure throughout Development on Microglia Number in the Prefrontal Cortex, Hippocampus and Cerebellum. Neuroscience 2021; 481:166-177. [PMID: 34780921 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2021.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Microglia serve as resident immune cells in the brain, responding to insults and pathological developments. They have also been implicated in shaping synaptic development and regulation. The present study examined microglial cell density in a number of brain regions across select postnatal (P) ages along with the effects of valproic acid (VPA) on microglia density. Specifically, C57BL/6JCx3CR1+/GFP mice were examined for microglial cell number changes on P7, P14, P30, and P60 under baseline conditions and following 400 mg/kg VPA or saline. The prefrontal cortex (PFC), hippocampus and cerebellum were observed. Under control conditions, the results showed a shift in the number of microglia in these brain areas throughout development with a peak density in the hippocampus at P14 and an increase in PFC microglial numbers from P15 to P30. Interestingly, VPA treatment enhanced microglial numbers in a region-specific manner. VPA at P7 increased microglial cell number in the hippocampus and cerebellum whereas P14 VPA treatment altered microglial density in the cerebellum only. Cerebellar increases also occurred after VPA at P30, and were attended by an effect of increased numbers in the PFC. Finally, animals treated with VPA at P60 exhibited decreased microglia density in the hippocampus only. These results suggest rapid VPA-induced increases in microglial cell density in a developmentally-regulated fashion which differs across distinct brain areas. Furthermore, in the context of prior reports that early VPA causes excitotoxic damage, the present findings suggest early VPA exposure may provide a model for studying altered microglial responses to early toxicant challenge.
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