1
|
Bamford RA, Zuko A, Eve M, Sprengers JJ, Post H, Taggenbrock RLRE, Fäβler D, Mehr A, Jones OJR, Kudzinskas A, Gandawijaya J, Müller UC, Kas MJH, Burbach JPH, Oguro-Ando A. CNTN4 modulates neural elongation through interplay with APP. Open Biol 2024; 14:240018. [PMID: 38745463 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.240018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The neuronal cell adhesion molecule contactin-4 (CNTN4) is genetically associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other psychiatric disorders. Cntn4-deficient mouse models have previously shown that CNTN4 plays important roles in axon guidance and synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus. However, the pathogenesis and functional role of CNTN4 in the cortex has not yet been investigated. Our study found a reduction in cortical thickness in the motor cortex of Cntn4 -/- mice, but cortical cell migration and differentiation were unaffected. Significant morphological changes were observed in neurons in the M1 region of the motor cortex, indicating that CNTN4 is also involved in the morphology and spine density of neurons in the motor cortex. Furthermore, mass spectrometry analysis identified an interaction partner for CNTN4, confirming an interaction between CNTN4 and amyloid-precursor protein (APP). Knockout human cells for CNTN4 and/or APP revealed a relationship between CNTN4 and APP. This study demonstrates that CNTN4 contributes to cortical development and that binding and interplay with APP controls neural elongation. This is an important finding for understanding the physiological function of APP, a key protein for Alzheimer's disease. The binding between CNTN4 and APP, which is involved in neurodevelopment, is essential for healthy nerve outgrowth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary A Bamford
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter , Exeter EX2 5DW, UK
| | - Amila Zuko
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour and Faculty of Science, Radboud University , Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Madeline Eve
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter , Exeter EX2 5DW, UK
| | - Jan J Sprengers
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, UMC Utrecht , Utrecht 3508 AB, The Netherlands
| | - Harm Post
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht, Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University , Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Netherlands Proteomics Centre , Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Renske L R E Taggenbrock
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, UMC Utrecht , Utrecht 3508 AB, The Netherlands
| | - Dominique Fäβler
- Institute for Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology (IPMB), Functional Genomics, University of Heidelberg , Heidelberg 69120, Germany
| | - Annika Mehr
- Institute for Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology (IPMB), Functional Genomics, University of Heidelberg , Heidelberg 69120, Germany
| | - Owen J R Jones
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter , Exeter EX2 5DW, UK
| | - Aurimas Kudzinskas
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter , Exeter EX2 5DW, UK
| | - Josan Gandawijaya
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter , Exeter EX2 5DW, UK
| | - Ulrike C Müller
- Institute for Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology (IPMB), Functional Genomics, University of Heidelberg , Heidelberg 69120, Germany
| | - Martien J H Kas
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, UMC Utrecht , Utrecht 3508 AB, The Netherlands
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen , Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - J Peter H Burbach
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, UMC Utrecht , Utrecht 3508 AB, The Netherlands
| | - Asami Oguro-Ando
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter , Exeter EX2 5DW, UK
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science , Noda, Chiba, Japan
- Research Institute for Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science , Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Santos Musachio EA, da Silva Andrade S, Meichtry LB, Fernandes EJ, de Almeida PP, Janner DE, Dahleh MMM, Guerra GP, Prigol M. Exposure to Bisphenol F and Bisphenol S during development induces autism-like endophenotypes in adult Drosophila melanogaster. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2024; 103:107348. [PMID: 38554851 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2024.107348] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Bisphenol F (BPF) and Bisphenol S (BPS) are being widely used by the industry with the claim of "safer substances", even with the scarcity of toxicological studies. Given the etiological gap of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the environment may be a causal factor, so we investigated whether exposure to BPF and BPS during the developmental period can induce ASD-like modeling in adult flies. Drosophila melanogaster flies were exposed during development (embryonic and larval period) to concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, and 1 mM of BPF and BPS, separately inserted into the food. When they transformed into pupae were transferred to a standard diet, ensuring that the flies (adult stage) did not have contact with bisphenols. Thus, after hatching, consolidated behavioral tests were carried out for studies with ASD-type models in flies. It was observed that 1 mM BPF and BPS caused hyperactivity (evidenced by open-field test, negative geotaxis, increased aggressiveness and reproduction of repetitive behaviors). The flies belonging to the 1 mM groups of BPF and BPS also showed reduced cognitive capacity, elucidated by the learning behavior through aversive stimulus. Within the population dynamics that flies exposed to 1 mM BPF and 0.5 and 1 mM BPS showed a change in social interaction, remaining more distant from each other. Exposure to 1 mM BPF, 0.5 and 1 mM BPS increased brain size and reduced Shank immunoreactivity of adult flies. These findings complement each other and show that exposure to BPF and BPS during the development period can elucidate a model with endophenotypes similar to ASD in adult flies. Furthermore, when analyzing comparatively, BPS demonstrated a greater potential for damage when compared to BPF. Therefore, in general these data sets contradict the idea that these substances can be used freely.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elize A Santos Musachio
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Stefani da Silva Andrade
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Luana Barreto Meichtry
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Eliana Jardim Fernandes
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Pamela Piardi de Almeida
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Dieniffer Espinosa Janner
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Mustafa Munir Mustafa Dahleh
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Petri Guerra
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil; Department of Food Science and Technology, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Marina Prigol
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil; Department of Nutrition, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Willinger Y, Friedland Cohen DR, Turgeman G. Exogenous IL-17A Alleviates Social Behavior Deficits and Increases Neurogenesis in a Murine Model of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:432. [PMID: 38203599 PMCID: PMC10779042 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010432] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Among the proposed mechanisms for autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is immune dysregulation. The proinflammatory cytokine Interleukine-17A (IL-17A) was shown to play a key role in mediating immune-related neurodevelopmental impairment of social behavior. Nevertheless, post-developmental administration of IL-17A was found to increase social behavior. In the present study, we explored the effect of post-developmental administration of IL-17A on ASD-like behaviors induced by developmental exposure to valproic acid (VPA) at postnatal day 4. At the age of seven weeks, VPA-exposed mice were intravenously injected twice with recombinant murine IL-17A (8 μg), and a week later, they were assessed for ASD-like behavior. IL-17A administration increased social behavior and alleviated the ASD-like phenotype. Behavioral changes were associated with increased serum levels of IL-17 and Th17-related cytokines. Exogenous IL-17A also increased neuritogenesis in the dendritic tree of doublecortin-expressing newly formed neurons in the dentate gyrus. Interestingly, the effect of IL-17A on neuritogenesis was more noticeable in females than in males, suggesting a sex-dependent effect of IL-17A. In conclusion, our study suggests a complex role for IL-17A in ASD. While contributing to its pathology at the developmental stage, IL-17 may also promote the alleviation of behavioral deficits post-developmentally by promoting neuritogenesis and synaptogenesis in the dentate gyrus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yehoshua Willinger
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel; (Y.W.); (D.R.F.C.)
| | - Daniella R. Friedland Cohen
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel; (Y.W.); (D.R.F.C.)
| | - Gadi Turgeman
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel; (Y.W.); (D.R.F.C.)
- The Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bennison SA, Blazejewski SM, Liu X, Hacohen-Kleiman G, Sragovich S, Zoidou S, Touloumi O, Grigoriadis N, Gozes I, Toyo-Oka K. The cytoplasmic localization of ADNP through 14-3-3 promotes sex-dependent neuronal morphogenesis, cortical connectivity, and calcium signaling. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:1946-1959. [PMID: 36631597 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01939-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Defective neuritogenesis is a contributing pathogenic mechanism underlying a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders. Single gene mutations in activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP) are the most frequent among autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) leading to the ADNP syndrome. Previous studies showed that during neuritogenesis, Adnp localizes to the cytoplasm/neurites, and Adnp knockdown inhibits neuritogenesis in culture. Here, we hypothesized that Adnp is localized in the cytoplasm during neurite formation and that this process is mediated by 14-3-3. Indeed, applying the 14-3-3 inhibitor, difopein, blocked Adnp cytoplasmic localization. Furthermore, co-immunoprecipitations showed that Adnp bound 14-3-3 proteins and proteomic analysis identified several potential phosphorylation-dependent Adnp/14-3-3 binding sites. We further discovered that knockdown of Adnp using in utero electroporation of mouse layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons in the somatosensory cortex led to previously unreported changes in neurite formation beginning at P0. Defects were sustained throughout development, the most notable included increased basal dendrite number and axon length. Paralleling the observed morphological aberrations, ex vivo calcium imaging revealed that Adnp deficient neurons had greater and more frequent spontaneous calcium influx in female mice. GRAPHIC, a novel synaptic tracing technology substantiated this finding, revealing increased interhemispheric connectivity between female Adnp deficient layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons. We conclude that Adnp is localized to the cytoplasm by 14-3-3 proteins, where it regulates neurite formation, maturation, and functional cortical connectivity significantly building on our current understanding of Adnp function and the etiology of ADNP syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Bennison
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19129, USA
| | - Sara M Blazejewski
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19129, USA
| | - Xiaonan Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA
| | - Gal Hacohen-Kleiman
- The Elton Laboratory for Neuroendocrinology; Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Shlomo Sragovich
- The Elton Laboratory for Neuroendocrinology; Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Sofia Zoidou
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Olga Touloumi
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Grigoriadis
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Illana Gozes
- The Elton Laboratory for Neuroendocrinology; Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Kazuhito Toyo-Oka
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19129, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bennison SA, Liu X, Toyo-Oka K. Nuak kinase signaling in development and disease of the central nervous system. Cell Signal 2022; 100:110472. [PMID: 36122883 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Protein kinases represent important signaling hubs for a variety of biological functions. Many kinases are traditionally studied for their roles in cancer cell biology, but recent advances in neuroscience research show repurposed kinase function to be important for nervous system development and function. Two members of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) related family, NUAK1 and NUAK2, have drawn attention in neuroscience due to their mutations in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia, and intellectual disability (ID). Furthermore, Nuak kinases have also been implicated in tauopathy and other disorders of aging. This review highlights what is known about the Nuak kinases in nervous system development and disease and explores the possibility of Nuak kinases as targets for therapeutic innovation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Bennison
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
| | - Xiaonan Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA
| | - Kazuhito Toyo-Oka
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Triana-Del Rio R, Ranade S, Guardado J, LeDoux J, Klann E, Shrestha P. The modulation of emotional and social behaviors by oxytocin signaling in limbic network. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1002846. [PMID: 36466805 PMCID: PMC9714608 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1002846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptides can exert volume modulation in neuronal networks, which account for a well-calibrated and fine-tuned regulation that depends on the sensory and behavioral contexts. For example, oxytocin (OT) and oxytocin receptor (OTR) trigger a signaling pattern encompassing intracellular cascades, synaptic plasticity, gene expression, and network regulation, that together function to increase the signal-to-noise ratio for sensory-dependent stress/threat and social responses. Activation of OTRs in emotional circuits within the limbic forebrain is necessary to acquire stress/threat responses. When emotional memories are retrieved, OTR-expressing cells act as gatekeepers of the threat response choice/discrimination. OT signaling has also been implicated in modulating social-exposure elicited responses in the neural circuits within the limbic forebrain. In this review, we describe the cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie the neuromodulation by OT, and how OT signaling in specific neural circuits and cell populations mediate stress/threat and social behaviors. OT and downstream signaling cascades are heavily implicated in neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by emotional and social dysregulation. Thus, a mechanistic understanding of downstream cellular effects of OT in relevant cell types and neural circuits can help design effective intervention techniques for a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sayali Ranade
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Jahel Guardado
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Joseph LeDoux
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Eric Klann
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Prerana Shrestha
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Cheon S, Culver AM, Bagnell AM, Ritchie FD, Vacharasin JM, McCord MM, Papendorp CM, Chukwurah E, Smith AJ, Cowen MH, Moreland TA, Ghate PS, Davis SW, Liu JS, Lizarraga SB. Counteracting epigenetic mechanisms regulate the structural development of neuronal circuitry in human neurons. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:2291-2303. [PMID: 35210569 PMCID: PMC9133078 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01474-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are associated with defects in neuronal connectivity and are highly heritable. Genetic findings suggest that there is an overrepresentation of chromatin regulatory genes among the genes associated with ASD. ASH1 like histone lysine methyltransferase (ASH1L) was identified as a major risk factor for ASD. ASH1L methylates Histone H3 on Lysine 36, which is proposed to result primarily in transcriptional activation. However, how mutations in ASH1L lead to deficits in neuronal connectivity associated with ASD pathogenesis is not known. We report that ASH1L regulates neuronal morphogenesis by counteracting the catalytic activity of Polycomb Repressive complex 2 group (PRC2) in stem cell-derived human neurons. Depletion of ASH1L decreases neurite outgrowth and decreases expression of the gene encoding the neurotrophin receptor TrkB whose signaling pathway is linked to neuronal morphogenesis. The neuronal morphogenesis defect is overcome by inhibition of PRC2 activity, indicating that a balance between the Trithorax group protein ASH1L and PRC2 activity determines neuronal morphology. Thus, our work suggests that ASH1L may epigenetically regulate neuronal morphogenesis by modulating pathways like the BDNF-TrkB signaling pathway. Defects in neuronal morphogenesis could potentially impair the establishment of neuronal connections which could contribute to the neurodevelopmental pathogenesis associated with ASD in patients with ASH1L mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seonhye Cheon
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Allison M Culver
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Anna M Bagnell
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Foster D Ritchie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Janay M Vacharasin
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Mikayla M McCord
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Carin M Papendorp
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Evelyn Chukwurah
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Austin J Smith
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Mara H Cowen
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Trevor A Moreland
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Pankaj S Ghate
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Shannon W Davis
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Judy S Liu
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Center for Translational Neuroscience, Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science and Brown Institute for Translational Science, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Neurology, Rhode Island Hospital and Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Sofia B Lizarraga
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA.
- Center for Childhood Neurotherapeutics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Atherton J, Stouffer M, Francis F, Moores CA. Visualising the cytoskeletal machinery in neuronal growth cones using cryo-electron tomography. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:274968. [PMID: 35383828 PMCID: PMC9016625 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurons extend axons to form the complex circuitry of the mature brain. This depends on the coordinated response and continuous remodelling of the microtubule and F-actin networks in the axonal growth cone. Growth cone architecture remains poorly understood at nanoscales. We therefore investigated mouse hippocampal neuron growth cones using cryo-electron tomography to directly visualise their three-dimensional subcellular architecture with molecular detail. Our data showed that the hexagonal arrays of actin bundles that form filopodia penetrate and terminate deep within the growth cone interior. We directly observed the modulation of these and other growth cone actin bundles by alteration of individual F-actin helical structures. Microtubules with blunt, slightly flared or gently curved ends predominated in the growth cone, frequently contained lumenal particles and exhibited lattice defects. Investigation of the effect of absence of doublecortin, a neurodevelopmental cytoskeleton regulator, on growth cone cytoskeleton showed no major anomalies in overall growth cone organisation or in F-actin subpopulations. However, our data suggested that microtubules sustained more structural defects, highlighting the importance of microtubule integrity during growth cone migration. Summary: Cryo-electron tomographic reconstruction of neuronal growth cone subdomains reveals distinctive F-actin and microtubule cytoskeleton architectures and modulation at molecular detail.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Atherton
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King's College, London SE1 1YR, UK.,Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of London, London WC1E 7HX, UK
| | - Melissa Stouffer
- INSERM UMR-S 1270, 17 Rue du Fer à Moulin, 75005 Paris, France.,Sorbonne University UMR-S 1270, 4 Place Jussieu, 75005 Paris, France.,Institut du Fer à Moulin, 17 Rue du Fer à Moulin, 75005 Paris, France.,Institute of Science and Technology Austria, Am campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuberg, Austria
| | - Fiona Francis
- INSERM UMR-S 1270, 17 Rue du Fer à Moulin, 75005 Paris, France.,Sorbonne University UMR-S 1270, 4 Place Jussieu, 75005 Paris, France.,Institut du Fer à Moulin, 17 Rue du Fer à Moulin, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Carolyn A Moores
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of London, London WC1E 7HX, UK
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Behavioral, Anti-Inflammatory, and Neuroprotective Effects of a Novel FPR2 Agonist in Two Mouse Models of Autism. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15020161. [PMID: 35215274 PMCID: PMC8875614 DOI: 10.3390/ph15020161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of heterogeneous neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by social deficits, repetitive stereotyped behaviors, and altered inflammatory responses. Accordingly, children with ASD show decreased plasma levels of lipoxin A4 (LXA4), a mediator involved in the resolution of inflammation, which is the endogenous ligand of the formyl peptide receptor 2 (FPR2). To investigate the role of FPR2 in ASDs, we have used a new ureidopropanamide derivative able to activate the receptor, named MR-39. The effects of MR-39 (10 mg/kg, for 8 days) on hippocampal pro-inflammatory profile, neuronal plasticity, and social behavior were evaluated in two validated animal models of ASD: BTBR mouse strain and mice prenatally exposed to valproic acid (VPA). Primary cultures of hippocampal neurons from BTBR mice were also used to evaluate the effect of MR-39 on neurite elongation. Our results show that MR-39 treatment reduced several inflammatory markers, restored the low expression of LXA4, and modulated FPR2 expression in hippocampal tissues of both ASD animal models. These findings were accompanied by a significant positive effect of MR-39 on social behavioral tests of ASD mice. Finally, MR-39 stimulates neurite elongation in isolated hippocampal neurons of BTBR mice. In conclusion, these data indicate FPR2 as a potential target for an innovative therapeutical approach for the cure of ASD.
Collapse
|
10
|
Matsuo K, Shinoda Y, Abolhassani N, Nakabeppu Y, Fukunaga K. Transcriptome Analysis in Hippocampus of Rats Prenatally Exposed to Valproic Acid and Effects of Intranasal Treatment of Oxytocin. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:859198. [PMID: 35432011 PMCID: PMC9005872 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.859198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous disorder characterized by repetitive behaviors and social impairments, often accompanied by learning disabilities. It has been documented that the neuropeptide oxytocin (OXT) ameliorates core symptoms in patients with ASD. We recently reported that chronic administration of intranasal OXT reversed social and learning impairments in prenatally valproic acid (VPA)-exposed rats. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we explored molecular alterations in the hippocampus of rats and the effects of chronic administration of intranasal OXT (12 μg/kg/d). Microarray analyses revealed that prenatal VPA exposure altered gene expression, a part of which is suggested as a candidate in ASD and is involved in key features including memory, developmental processes, and epilepsy. OXT partly improved the expression of these genes, which were predicted to interact with those involved in social behaviors and hippocampal-dependent memory. Collectively, the present study documented molecular profiling in the hippocampus related to ASD and improvement by chronic treatment with OXT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuya Matsuo
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yasuharu Shinoda
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Nona Abolhassani
- Division of Neurofunctional Genomics, Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yusaku Nakabeppu
- Division of Neurofunctional Genomics, Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kohji Fukunaga
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ghosh A, Singh S. Regulation Of Microtubule: Current Concepts And Relevance To Neurodegenerative Diseases. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS 2021; 21:656-679. [PMID: 34323203 DOI: 10.2174/1871527320666210728144043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are abnormalities linked to neuronal structure and irregularities associated with the proliferation of cells, transportation, and differentiation. NDD also involves synaptic circuitry and neural network alterations known as synaptopathies. Microtubules (MTs) and MTs-associated proteins help to maintain neuronal health as well as their development. The microtubular dynamic structure plays a crucial role in the division of cells and forms mitotic spindles, thus take part in initiating stages of differentiation and polarization for various types of cells. The MTs also take part in the cellular death but MT-based cellular degenerations are not yet well excavated. In the last few years, studies have provided the protagonist activity of MTs in neuronal degeneration. In this review, we largely engrossed our discussion on the change of MT cytoskeleton structure, describing their organization, dynamics, transportation, and their failure causing NDDs. At end of this review, we are targeting the therapeutic neuroprotective strategies on clinical priority and also try to discuss the clues for the development of new MT-based therapy as a new pharmacological intervention. This will be a new potential site to block not only neurodegeneration but also promotes the regeneration of neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anirban Ghosh
- Neuroscience Division, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga-142001 Punjab, India
| | - Shamsher Singh
- Neuroscience Division, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga-142001 Punjab, India
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bahado-Singh RO, Vishweswaraiah S, Aydas B, Radhakrishna U. Placental DNA methylation changes and the early prediction of autism in full-term newborns. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253340. [PMID: 34260616 PMCID: PMC8279352 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with abnormal brain development during fetal life. Overall, increasing evidence indicates an important role of epigenetic dysfunction in ASD. The placenta is critical to and produces neurotransmitters that regulate fetal brain development. We hypothesized that placental DNA methylation changes are a feature of the fetal development of the autistic brain and importantly could help to elucidate the early pathogenesis and prediction of these disorders. Genome-wide methylation using placental tissue from the full-term autistic disorder subtype was performed using the Illumina 450K array. The study consisted of 14 cases and 10 control subjects. Significantly epigenetically altered CpG loci (FDR p-value <0.05) in autism were identified. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) was further used to identify molecular pathways that were over-represented (epigenetically dysregulated) in autism. Six Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms including Deep Learning (DL) to determine the predictive accuracy of CpG markers for autism detection. We identified 9655 CpGs differentially methylated in autism. Among them, 2802 CpGs were inter- or non-genic and 6853 intragenic. The latter involved 4129 genes. AI analysis of differentially methylated loci appeared highly accurate for autism detection. DL yielded an AUC (95% CI) of 1.00 (1.00-1.00) for autism detection using intra- or intergenic markers by themselves or combined. The biological functional enrichment showed, four significant functions that were affected in autism: quantity of synapse, microtubule dynamics, neuritogenesis, and abnormal morphology of neurons. In this preliminary study, significant placental DNA methylation changes. AI had high accuracy for the prediction of subsequent autism development in newborns. Finally, biologically functional relevant gene pathways were identified that may play a significant role in early fetal neurodevelopmental influences on later cognition and social behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ray O. Bahado-Singh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Royal Oak, MI, United States of America
| | - Sangeetha Vishweswaraiah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Royal Oak, MI, United States of America
| | - Buket Aydas
- Department of Healthcare Analytics, Meridian Health Plans, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Uppala Radhakrishna
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Royal Oak, MI, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
GABA Signaling Pathway-associated Gene PLCL1 Rare Variants May be Associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Neurosci Bull 2021; 37:1240-1245. [PMID: 34089506 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-021-00707-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
|
14
|
Srancikova A, Bacova Z, Bakos J. The epigenetic regulation of synaptic genes contributes to the etiology of autism. Rev Neurosci 2021; 32:791-802. [PMID: 33939901 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2021-0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms greatly affect the developing brain, as well as the maturation of synapses with pervasive, long-lasting consequences on behavior in adults. Substantial evidence exists that implicates dysregulation of epigenetic mechanisms in the etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. Therefore, this review explains the role of enzymes involved in DNA methylation and demethylation in neurodevelopment by emphasizing changes of synaptic genes and proteins. Epigenetic causes of sex-dependent differences in the brain are analyzed in conjunction with the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorders. Special attention is devoted to the epigenetic regulation of the melanoma-associated antigen-like gene 2 (MAGEL2) found in Prader-Willi syndrome, which is known to be accompanied by autistic symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Srancikova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 05 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Bacova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 05 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Jan Bakos
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 05 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Catusi I, Garzo M, Capra AP, Briuglia S, Baldo C, Canevini MP, Cantone R, Elia F, Forzano F, Galesi O, Grosso E, Malacarne M, Peron A, Romano C, Saccani M, Larizza L, Recalcati MP. 8p23.2-pter Microdeletions: Seven New Cases Narrowing the Candidate Region and Review of the Literature. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12050652. [PMID: 33925474 PMCID: PMC8146486 DOI: 10.3390/genes12050652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
To date only five patients with 8p23.2-pter microdeletions manifesting a mild-to-moderate cognitive impairment and/or developmental delay, dysmorphisms and neurobehavioral issues were reported. The smallest microdeletion described by Wu in 2010 suggested a critical region (CR) of 2.1 Mb including several genes, out of which FBXO25, DLGAP2, CLN8, ARHGEF10 and MYOM2 are the main candidates. Here we present seven additional patients with 8p23.2-pter microdeletions, ranging from 71.79 kb to 4.55 Mb. The review of five previously reported and nine Decipher patients confirmed the association of the CR with a variable clinical phenotype characterized by intellectual disability/developmental delay, including language and speech delay and/or motor impairment, behavioral anomalies, autism spectrum disorder, dysmorphisms, microcephaly, fingers/toes anomalies and epilepsy. Genotype analysis allowed to narrow down the 8p23.3 candidate region which includes only DLGAP2, CLN8 and ARHGEF10 genes, accounting for the main signs of the broad clinical phenotype associated to 8p23.2-pter microdeletions. This region is more restricted compared to the previously proposed CR. Overall, our data favor the hypothesis that DLGAP2 is the actual strongest candidate for neurodevelopmental/behavioral phenotypes. Additional patients will be necessary to validate the pathogenic role of DLGAP2 and better define how the two contiguous genes, ARHGEF10 and CLN8, might contribute to the clinical phenotype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Catusi
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Laboratory of Medical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics, 20145 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Garzo
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Laboratory of Medical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics, 20145 Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Paola Capra
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy
| | - Silvana Briuglia
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy
| | - Chiara Baldo
- UOC Laboratorio di Genetica Umana, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Canevini
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit-Epilepsy Center, Department of Health Sciences, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, San Paolo Hospital, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy
| | - Rachele Cantone
- Medical Genetics Unit, Città della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Flaviana Elia
- Unit of Psychology, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy
| | - Francesca Forzano
- Clinical Genetics Department, Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Ornella Galesi
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy
| | - Enrico Grosso
- Medical Genetics Unit, Città della Salute e della Scienza University Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Michela Malacarne
- UOC Laboratorio di Genetica Umana, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Angela Peron
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit-Epilepsy Center, Department of Health Sciences, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, San Paolo Hospital, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy
- Human Pathology and Medical Genetics, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, San Paolo Hospital, 20142 Milan, Italy
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Corrado Romano
- Unit of Pediatrics and Medical Genetics, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy
| | - Monica Saccani
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit-Epilepsy Center, Department of Health Sciences, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, San Paolo Hospital, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy
| | - Lidia Larizza
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Laboratory of Medical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics, 20145 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Recalcati
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Laboratory of Medical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics, 20145 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Reichova A, Schaller F, Bukatova S, Bacova Z, Muscatelli F, Bakos J. The impact of oxytocin on neurite outgrowth and synaptic proteins in Magel2-deficient mice. Dev Neurobiol 2021; 81:366-388. [PMID: 33609001 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin contributes to the regulation of cytoskeletal and synaptic proteins and could, therefore, affect the mechanisms of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism. Both the Prader-Willi syndrome and Schaaf-Yang syndrome exhibit autistic symptoms involving the MAGEL2 gene. Magel2-deficient mice show a deficit in social behavior that is rescued following the postnatal administration of oxytocin. Here, in Magel2-deficient mice, we showed that the neurite outgrowth of primary cultures of immature hippocampal neurons is reduced. Treatment with oxytocin reversed this abnormality. In the hippocampus of Magel2-deficient pups, we further demonstrated that several transcripts of neurite outgrowth-associated proteins, synaptic vesicle proteins, and cell-adhesion molecules are decreased. In the juvenile stage, when neurons are mature, normalization or even overexpression of most of these markers was observed, suggesting a delay in the neuronal maturation of Magel2-deficient pups. Moreover, we found reduced transcripts of the excitatory postsynaptic marker, Psd95 in the hippocampus and we observed a decrease of PSD95/VGLUT2 colocalization in the hippocampal CA1 and CA3 regions in Magel2-deficient mice, indicating a defect in glutamatergic synapses. Postnatal administration of oxytocin upregulated postsynaptic transcripts in pups; however, it did not restore the level of markers of glutamatergic synapses in Magel2-deficient mice. Overall, Magel2 deficiency leads to abnormal neurite outgrowth and reduced glutamatergic synapses during development, suggesting abnormal neuronal maturation. Oxytocin stimulates the expression of numerous genes involved in neurite outgrowth and synapse formation in early development stages. Postnatal oxytocin administration has a strong effect on development that should be considered for certain neuropsychiatric conditions in infancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Reichova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Fabienne Schaller
- Mediterranean Institute of Neurobiology (INMED), Parc Scientifique de Luminy, Marseille, France
| | - 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
| | - Françoise Muscatelli
- Mediterranean Institute of Neurobiology (INMED), Parc Scientifique de Luminy, Marseille, France
| | - Jan Bakos
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia.,Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Liu X, Blazejewski SM, Bennison SA, Toyo-Oka K. Glutathione S-transferase Pi (Gstp) proteins regulate neuritogenesis in the developing cerebral cortex. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 30:30-45. [PMID: 33437989 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
GSTP proteins are metabolic enzymes involved in the removal of oxidative stress and intracellular signaling and also have inhibitory effects on JNK activity. However, the functions of Gstp proteins in the developing brain are unknown. In mice, there are three Gstp proteins, Gstp1, 2 and 3, whereas there is only one GSTP in humans. By reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis, we found that Gstp1 was expressed beginning at E15.5 in the cortex, but Gstp2 and 3 started expressing at E18.5. Gstp 1 and 2 knockdown (KD) caused decreased neurite number in cortical neurons, implicating them in neurite initiation. Using in utero electroporation (IUE) to knock down Gstp1 and 2 in layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons in vivo, we found abnormal swelling of the apical dendrite at P3 and reduced neurite number at P15. Using time-lapse live imaging, we found that the apical dendrite orientation was skewed compared with the control. We explored the molecular mechanism and found that JNK inhibition rescued reduced neurite number caused by Gstp knockdown, indicating that Gstp regulates neurite formation through JNK signaling. Thus, we found novel functions of Gstp proteins in neurite initiation during cortical development. These findings not only provide novel functions of Gstp proteins in neuritogenesis during cortical development but also help us to understand the complexity of neurite formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaonan Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129 USA
| | - Sara M Blazejewski
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129 USA
| | - Sarah A Bennison
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129 USA
| | - Kazuhito Toyo-Oka
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129 USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Emberti Gialloreti L, Enea R, Di Micco V, Di Giovanni D, Curatolo P. Clustering Analysis Supports the Detection of Biological Processes Related to Autism Spectrum Disorder. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11121476. [PMID: 33316975 PMCID: PMC7763205 DOI: 10.3390/genes11121476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome sequencing has identified a large number of putative autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk genes, revealing possible disrupted biological pathways; however, the genetic and environmental underpinnings of ASD remain mostly unanswered. The presented methodology aimed to identify genetically related clusters of ASD individuals. By using the VariCarta dataset, which contains data retrieved from 13,069 people with ASD, we compared patients pairwise to build “patient similarity matrices”. Hierarchical-agglomerative-clustering and heatmapping were performed, followed by enrichment analysis (EA). We analyzed whole-genome sequencing retrieved from 2062 individuals, and isolated 11,609 genetic variants shared by at least two people. The analysis yielded three clusters, composed, respectively, by 574 (27.8%), 507 (24.6%), and 650 (31.5%) individuals. Overall, 4187 variants (36.1%) were common to the three clusters. The EA revealed that the biological processes related to the shared genetic variants were mainly involved in neuron projection guidance and morphogenesis, cell junctions, synapse assembly, and in observational, imitative, and vocal learning. The study highlighted genetic networks, which were more frequent in a sample of people with ASD, compared to the overall population. We suggest that itemizing not only single variants, but also gene networks, might support ASD etiopathology research. Future work on larger databases will have to ascertain the reproducibility of this methodology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Emberti Gialloreti
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Roberto Enea
- IMME Research Centre, Via Giotto 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy;
| | - Valentina Di Micco
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Systems Medicine Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (V.D.M.); (P.C.)
| | - Daniele Di Giovanni
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Paolo Curatolo
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Systems Medicine Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (V.D.M.); (P.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lee EC, Hu VW. Phenotypic Subtyping and Re-Analysis of Existing Methylation Data from Autistic Probands in Simplex Families Reveal ASD Subtype-Associated Differentially Methylated Genes and Biological Functions. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6877. [PMID: 32961747 PMCID: PMC7555936 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) describes a group of neurodevelopmental disorders with core deficits in social communication and manifestation of restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped behaviors. Despite the core symptomatology, ASD is extremely heterogeneous with respect to the severity of symptoms and behaviors. This heterogeneity presents an inherent challenge to all large-scale genome-wide omics analyses. In the present study, we address this heterogeneity by stratifying ASD probands from simplex families according to the severity of behavioral scores on the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised diagnostic instrument, followed by re-analysis of existing DNA methylation data from individuals in three ASD subphenotypes in comparison to that of their respective unaffected siblings. We demonstrate that subphenotyping of cases enables the identification of over 1.6 times the number of statistically significant differentially methylated regions (DMR) and DMR-associated genes (DAGs) between cases and controls, compared to that identified when all cases are combined. Our analyses also reveal ASD-related neurological functions and comorbidities that are enriched among DAGs in each phenotypic subgroup but not in the combined case group. Moreover, relational gene networks constructed with the DAGs reveal signaling pathways associated with specific functions and comorbidities. In addition, a network comprised of DAGs shared among all ASD subgroups and the combined case group is enriched in genes involved in inflammatory responses, suggesting that neuroinflammation may be a common theme underlying core features of ASD. These findings demonstrate the value of phenotype definition in methylomic analyses of ASD and may aid in the development of subtype-directed diagnostics and therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Valerie W. Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, The George Washington University, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC 20037, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Expression of Genes Involved in Axon Guidance: How Much Have We Learned? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103566. [PMID: 32443632 PMCID: PMC7278939 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal axons are guided to their target during the development of the brain. Axon guidance allows the formation of intricate neural circuits that control the function of the brain, and thus the behavior. As the axons travel in the brain to find their target, they encounter various axon guidance cues, which interact with the receptors on the tip of the growth cone to permit growth along different signaling pathways. Although many scientists have performed numerous studies on axon guidance signaling pathways, we still have an incomplete understanding of the axon guidance system. Lately, studies on axon guidance have shifted from studying the signal transduction pathways to studying other molecular features of axon guidance, such as the gene expression. These new studies present evidence for different molecular features that broaden our understanding of axon guidance. Hence, in this review we will introduce recent studies that illustrate different molecular features of axon guidance. In particular, we will review literature that demonstrates how axon guidance cues and receptors regulate local translation of axonal genes and how the expression of guidance cues and receptors are regulated both transcriptionally and post-transcriptionally. Moreover, we will highlight the pathological relevance of axon guidance molecules to specific diseases.
Collapse
|
21
|
Barón-Mendoza I, González-Arenas A. Relationship between the effect of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on brain plasticity and the improvement on cognition and behavior in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Nutr Neurosci 2020; 25:387-410. [PMID: 32338174 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2020.1755793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Objective: This work aimed to compile information about the neuronal processes in which polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) could modulate brain plasticity, in order to analyze the role of nutritional intervention with the ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids as a therapeutic strategy for the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)-related signs and symptoms.Methods: We reviewed different articles reporting the effect of PUFAS on neurite elongation, membrane expansion, cytoskeleton rearrangement and neurotransmission, considering the ASD-related abnormalities in these processes.Results: In accordance to the reviewed studies, it is clear that ASD is one of the neurological conditions associated with an impairment in neuronal plasticity; therefore, PUFAs-rich diet improvements on cognition and behavioral deficits in individuals with autism, could be involved with the regulation of neuronal processes implicated in the atypical brain plasticity related with this neurodevelopmental disorder.Discussion: The behavioral and cognitive improvement observed in individuals with ASD after PUFAs treatment might underlie, at least in part, in the ability of ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids to induce neurite outgrowth, probably, through the dynamic regulation of the neuronal cytoskeleton along with the expansion of neuronal membranes. Furthermore, it might also be associated with an enhancement of the efficacy of synaptic transmission and the modulation of neurotransmitters release.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Barón-Mendoza
- Departamento de Medicina Genómica y Toxicología Ambiental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, CDMX, México
| | - Aliesha González-Arenas
- Departamento de Medicina Genómica y Toxicología Ambiental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, CDMX, México
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Bennison SA, Blazejewski SM, Smith TH, Toyo-Oka K. Protein kinases: master regulators of neuritogenesis and therapeutic targets for axon regeneration. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:1511-1530. [PMID: 31659414 PMCID: PMC7166181 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03336-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Proper neurite formation is essential for appropriate neuronal morphology to develop and defects at this early foundational stage have serious implications for overall neuronal function. Neuritogenesis is tightly regulated by various signaling mechanisms that control the timing and placement of neurite initiation, as well as the various processes necessary for neurite elongation to occur. Kinases are integral components of these regulatory pathways that control the activation and inactivation of their targets. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the kinases that are notably involved in regulating neurite formation, which is a complex process that involves cytoskeletal rearrangements, addition of plasma membrane to increase neuronal surface area, coupling of cytoskeleton/plasma membrane, metabolic regulation, and regulation of neuronal differentiation. Since kinases are key regulators of these functions during neuromorphogenesis, they have high potential for use as therapeutic targets for axon regeneration after injury or disease where neurite formation is disrupted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Bennison
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19129, USA
| | - Sara M Blazejewski
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19129, USA
| | - Trevor H Smith
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19129, USA
| | - Kazuhito Toyo-Oka
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19129, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Abstract
Current understanding of the neuroanatomical abnormalities in autism includes gross anatomical changes in several brain areas and microstructural alterations in neuronal cells as well. There are many controversies in the interpretation of the imaging data, evaluation of volume and size of particular brain areas, and their functional translation into a broad autism phenotype. Critical questions of neuronal pathology in autism include the concept of the reversible plasticity of morphological changes, volume alterations of brain areas, and both short- and long-term consequences of adverse events present during the brain development. At the cellular level, remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton is considered as one of the critical factors associated with the autism spectrum disorders. Alterations in the composition of the neuronal cytoskeleton, in particular abnormalities in the polymerization of actin filaments and their associated proteins underlie the functional consequences in behavior resulting in symptoms and clinical correlates of autism spectrum disorder. In the present review, a special attention is devoted to the role of oxytocin in experimental models of neurodevelopmental disorders manifesting alterations in neuronal morphology.
Collapse
|
24
|
da Cruz Moreira-Junior E. Hyper-serotonergic state determines onset and progression of idiopathic Parkinson's disease. Med Hypotheses 2019; 133:109399. [PMID: 31542611 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2019.109399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite decades of research on Parkinson's disease (PD), the etiology of this disease remains unclear. The present manuscript introduces a new hypothesis proposing a hyper-serotonergic state as the main mechanism leading to axonal impairment both in dopaminergic and serotonergic neurons in PD. The strong serotonergic connection between the raphe nuclei and the dorsal raphe nuclei with the basal ganglia, all important brain structures associated with the pathophysiology of PD, emphasize a potential role for this neurotransmitter in PD. Importantly, a hyper-serotonergic state can lead to axonal growth impairment, an effect that seems to be selective to axons that can respond to this neurotransmitter. Serotonin seems to be a promising candidate to explain several of the poorly understood early symptoms of PD, including sleep impairment, anxiety, altered gastrointestinal motility and hallucinations. The hypothesis proposed here emphasizes that a hyper-serotonergic state would initially cause disruption of axonal transportation, an acute state in which axonal changes are reversible and the neurodegenerative process can be halted. As the hyper-serotonergic state persists, the accumulation of neurotoxic products and a sustained impairment in axonal transportation would lead to axonal death and culminate in an irreversible neurodegenerative process. The potential implications of this hypothesis are discussed, as well as how future research can be employed to further elucidate the role of serotonin on PD progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eliseu da Cruz Moreira-Junior
- Medical School Department of Health Sciences, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Rodovia Jorge Amado, Km 16, Bairro Salobrinho, Ilhéus-Bahia, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Barón-Mendoza I, Del Moral-Sánchez I, Martínez-Marcial M, García O, Garzón-Cortés D, González-Arenas A. Dendritic complexity in prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of the autistic-like mice C58/J. Neurosci Lett 2019; 703:149-155. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2019.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
26
|
Singh K, Jayaram M, Kaare M, Leidmaa E, Jagomäe T, Heinla I, Hickey MA, Kaasik A, Schäfer MK, Innos J, Lilleväli K, Philips MA, Vasar E. Neural cell adhesion molecule Negr1 deficiency in mouse results in structural brain endophenotypes and behavioral deviations related to psychiatric disorders. Sci Rep 2019; 9:5457. [PMID: 30932003 PMCID: PMC6443666 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-41991-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal growth regulator 1 (NEGR1) belongs to the immunoglobulin (IgLON) superfamily of cell adhesion molecules involved in cortical layering. Recent functional and genomic studies implicate the role of NEGR1 in a wide spectrum of psychiatric disorders, such as major depression, schizophrenia and autism. Here, we investigated the impact of Negr1 deficiency on brain morphology, neuronal properties and social behavior of mice. In situ hybridization shows Negr1 expression in the brain nuclei which are central modulators of cortical-subcortical connectivity such as the island of Calleja and the reticular nucleus of thalamus. Brain morphological analysis revealed neuroanatomical abnormalities in Negr1−/− mice, including enlargement of ventricles and decrease in the volume of the whole brain, corpus callosum, globus pallidus and hippocampus. Furthermore, decreased number of parvalbumin-positive inhibitory interneurons was evident in Negr1−/− hippocampi. Behaviorally, Negr1−/− mice displayed hyperactivity in social interactions and impairments in social hierarchy. Finally, Negr1 deficiency resulted in disrupted neurite sprouting during neuritogenesis. Our results provide evidence that NEGR1 is required for balancing the ratio of excitatory/inhibitory neurons and proper formation of brain structures, which is prerequisite for adaptive behavioral profiles. Therefore, Negr1−/− mice have a high potential to provide new insights into the neural mechanisms of neuropsychiatric disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katyayani Singh
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia. .,Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Mohan Jayaram
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia.,Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Maria Kaare
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia.,Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Este Leidmaa
- Institute of Molecular Psychiatry, University of Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str.25, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Toomas Jagomäe
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia.,Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Indrek Heinla
- Department of Psychology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Postboks 6050 Langnes, 9037, Tromso, Norway
| | - Miriam A Hickey
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Allen Kaasik
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Michael K Schäfer
- Department for Anesthesiology, University Medical Center and Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN), Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jürgen Innos
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia.,Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kersti Lilleväli
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia.,Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Mari-Anne Philips
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia.,Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Eero Vasar
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia.,Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Park SM, Plachez C, Huang S. Sex-Dependent Motor Deficit and Increased Anxiety-Like States in Mice Lacking Autism-Associated Gene Slit3. Front Behav Neurosci 2018; 12:261. [PMID: 30483073 PMCID: PMC6243047 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Altered neuronal connectivity has been implicated in the pathophysiology of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). SLIT/ROBO signaling plays an important role in developmental processes of neuronal connectivity, including axon guidance, neuronal migration, and axonal and dendritic branching. Genetic evidence supports that SLIT3, one of the genes encoding SLITs, is associated with ASD. Yet the causal link between SLIT3 mutation and autism symptoms has not been examined. Here we assessed ASD-associated behaviors in Slit3 knockout (KO) mice. Our data showed that Slit3-KO mice exhibited reduced marble burying behaviors but normal social behaviors. In addition, Slit3-KO mice displayed hypolocomotion in the open field test and impaired motor coordination in the rotarod test. Anxiety-like behaviors were mainly observed in female KO mice assessed by three types of behavioral tests, namely, the open field test, elevated plus maze test, and light/dark box test. No differences were observed between KO and wildtype mice in recognition memory in the novel object recognition test or depression-like behavior in the tail suspension test. Taken together, loss of Slit3 may result in disrupted neural circuits related to motor function and increased anxiety-like states, which are co-occurring symptoms in ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Su Mi Park
- Laboratory of Neural Circuits & Behavior, Program in Neuroscience, Hussman Institute for Autism, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Céline Plachez
- Autism & Brain Development Laboratory, Program in Neuroscience, Hussman Institute for Autism, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Shiyong Huang
- Laboratory of Neural Circuits & Behavior, Program in Neuroscience, Hussman Institute for Autism, Baltimore, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Molecular Mechanisms of Oxytocin Signaling at the Synaptic Connection. Neural Plast 2018; 2018:4864107. [PMID: 30057594 PMCID: PMC6051047 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4864107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant regulation of oxytocin signaling is associated with the etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. Synaptic dysfunctions in neurodevelopmental disorders are becoming increasingly known, and their pathogenic mechanisms could be a target of potential therapeutic intervention. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the role of oxytocin and its receptor in synapse structure, function, and neuron connectivity. An early alteration in oxytocin signaling may disturb neuronal maturation and may have short-term and long-term pathological consequences. At the molecular level, neurodevelopmental disorders include alterations in cytoskeletal rearrangement and neuritogenesis resulting in a diversity of synaptopathies. The presence of oxytocin receptors in the presynaptic and postsynaptic membranes and the direct effects of oxytocin on neuronal excitability by regulating the activity of ion channels in the cell membrane implicate that alterations in oxytocin signaling could be involved in synaptopathies. The ability of oxytocin to modulate neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and certain parameters of cytoskeletal arrangement is discussed in the present review.
Collapse
|
29
|
Barón-Mendoza I, García O, Calvo-Ochoa E, Rebollar-García JO, Garzón-Cortés D, Haro R, González-Arenas A. Alterations in neuronal cytoskeletal and astrocytic proteins content in the brain of the autistic-like mouse strain C58/J. Neurosci Lett 2018; 682:32-38. [PMID: 29885454 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Revised: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopment disorder characterized by deficient social interaction, impaired communication as well as repetitive behaviors. ASD subjects present connectivity and neuroplasticity disturbances associated with morphological alterations in axons, dendrites, and dendritic spines. Given that the neuronal cytoskeleton and astrocytes have an essential role in regulating several mechanisms of neural plasticity, the aim of this work was to study alterations in the content of neuronal cytoskeletal components actin and tubulin and their associated proteins, as well as astrocytic proteins GFAP and TSP-1 in the brain of a C58/J mouse model of ASD. We determined the expression and regulatory phosphorylation state of cytoskeletal components in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum of C58/J mice by means of Western blotting. Our results show that autistic-like mice present: 1) region-dependent altered expression and phosphorylation patterns of Tau isoforms, associated with anomalous microtubule depolymerization; 2) reduced MAP2 A content in prefrontal cortex; 3) region-dependent changes in cofilin expression and phosphorylation, associated with abnormal actin filament depolymerizing dynamics; 4) diminished synaptopodin levels in the hippocampus; and 5) reduced content of the astrocyte-secreted protein TSP-1 in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Our work demonstrates changes in the expression and phosphorylation of cytoskeletal proteins as well as in TSP-1 in the brain of the autistic-like mice C58/J, shedding light in one of the possible molecular mechanisms underpinning neuroplasticity alterations in the ASD brain and laying the foundation for future investigations in this topic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Barón-Mendoza
- Departamento de Medicina Genómica y Toxicología Ambiental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Octavio García
- Departamento de Psicobiología y Neurociencias, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Erika Calvo-Ochoa
- Department of Biological Sciences, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI, USA
| | - Jorge Omar Rebollar-García
- Unidad de Modelos Biológicos, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Daniel Garzón-Cortés
- Unidad de Modelos Biológicos, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Reyes Haro
- Instituto Mexicano de Medicina Integral de Sueño, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Aliesha González-Arenas
- Departamento de Medicina Genómica y Toxicología Ambiental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Argou-Cardozo I, Zeidán-Chuliá F. Clostridium Bacteria and Autism Spectrum Conditions: A Systematic Review and Hypothetical Contribution of Environmental Glyphosate Levels. Med Sci (Basel) 2018; 6:medsci6020029. [PMID: 29617356 PMCID: PMC6024569 DOI: 10.3390/medsci6020029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, there seems to be a consensus about the multifactorial nature of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The literature provides hypotheses dealing with numerous environmental factors and genes accounting for the apparently higher prevalence of this condition. Researchers have shown evidence regarding the impact of gut bacteria on neurological outcomes, altering behavior and potentially affecting the onset and/or severity of psychiatric disorders. Pesticides and agrotoxics are also included among this long list of ASD-related environmental stressors. Of note, ingestion of glyphosate (GLY), a broad-spectrum systemic herbicide, can reduce beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract microbiota without exerting any effects on the Clostridium population, which is highly resistant to this herbicide. In the present study, (i) we performed a systematic review to evaluate the relationship between Clostridium bacteria and the probability of developing and/or aggravating autism among children. For that purpose, electronic searches were performed on Medline/PubMed and Scielo databases for identification of relevant studies published in English up to December 2017. Two independent researches selected the studies and analyzed the data. The results of the present systematic review demonstrate an interrelation between Clostridium bacteria colonization of the intestinal tract and autism. Finally, (ii) we also hypothesize about how environmental GLY levels may deleteriously influence the gut–brain axis by boosting the growth of Clostridium bacteria in autistic toddlers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isadora Argou-Cardozo
- Specialization Course in Public Management and Regional Development, Faculty of Administration and Tourism, Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel), 96010-610 Pelotas, RS, Brazil.
| | - Fares Zeidán-Chuliá
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas Básicas, Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas y de la Salud, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain.
- These authors equally contributed to this systematic review.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Singh K, Lilleväli K, Gilbert SF, Bregin A, Narvik J, Jayaram M, Rahi M, Innos J, Kaasik A, Vasar E, Philips MA. The combined impact of IgLON family proteins Lsamp and Neurotrimin on developing neurons and behavioral profiles in mouse. Brain Res Bull 2018; 140:5-18. [PMID: 29605488 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2018.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Revised: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cell surface neural adhesion proteins are critical components in the complex orchestration of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and neuritogenesis essential for proper brain construction and behavior. We focused on the impact of two plasticity-associated IgLON family neural adhesion molecules, Neurotrimin (Ntm) and Limbic system associated membrane protein (Lsamp), on mouse behavior and its underlying neural development. Phenotyping neurons derived from the hippocampi of Lsamp-/-, Ntm-/- and Lsamp-/-Ntm-/- mice was performed in parallel with behavioral testing. While the anatomy of mutant brains revealed no gross changes, the Ntm-/- hippocampal neurons exhibited premature sprouting of neurites and manifested accelerated neurite elongation and branching. We propose that Ntm exerts an inhibitory impact on neurite outgrowth, whereas Lsamp appears to be an enhancer of the said process as premature neuritogenesis in Ntm-/- neurons is apparent only in the presence of Lsamp. We also show interplay between Lsamp and Ntm in regulating tissue homeostasis: the impact of Ntm on cellular proliferation was dependent on Lsamp, and Lsamp appeared to be a positive regulator of apoptosis in the presence of Ntm. Behavioral phenotyping indicated test-specific interactions between Lsamp and Ntm. The phenotypes of single mutant lines, such as reduced swimming speed in Morris water maze and increased activity in the elevated plus maze, were magnified in Lsamp-/-Ntm-/- mice. Altogether, evidence both from behavioral experiments and cultured hippocampal cells show combined and differential interactions between Ntm and Lsamp in the formation of hippocampal circuits and behavioral profiles. We demonstrate that mutual interactions between IgLON molecules regulate the initiation of neurite sprouting at very early ages, and even cell-autonomously, independent of their regulation of cell-cell adhesion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katyayani Singh
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia; Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kersti Lilleväli
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia; Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Scott F Gilbert
- Department of Biology, Swarthmore College, Swarthmore, PA, USA
| | - Aleksandr Bregin
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia; Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jane Narvik
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia; Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Mohan Jayaram
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia; Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Märt Rahi
- Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr.R. Kreutzwaldi 5, 51014, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jürgen Innos
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia; Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Allen Kaasik
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Eero Vasar
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia; Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Mari-Anne Philips
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia; Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, 19 Ravila Street, 50411, Tartu, Estonia.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Singh K, Loreth D, Pöttker B, Hefti K, Innos J, Schwald K, Hengstler H, Menzel L, Sommer CJ, Radyushkin K, Kretz O, Philips MA, Haas CA, Frauenknecht K, Lilleväli K, Heimrich B, Vasar E, Schäfer MKE. Neuronal Growth and Behavioral Alterations in Mice Deficient for the Psychiatric Disease-Associated Negr1 Gene. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:30. [PMID: 29479305 PMCID: PMC5811522 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal growth regulator 1 (NEGR1), a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily cell adhesion molecule subgroup IgLON, has been implicated in neuronal growth and connectivity. In addition, genetic variants in or near the NEGR1 locus have been associated with obesity and more recently with learning difficulties, intellectual disability and psychiatric disorders. However, experimental evidence is lacking to support a possible link between NEGR1, neuronal growth and behavioral abnormalities. Initial expression analysis of NEGR1 mRNA in C57Bl/6 wildtype (WT) mice by in situ hybridization demonstrated marked expression in the entorhinal cortex (EC) and dentate granule cells. In co-cultures of cortical neurons and NSC-34 cells overexpressing NEGR1, neurite growth of cortical neurons was enhanced and distal axons occupied an increased area of cells overexpressing NEGR1. Conversely, in organotypic slice co-cultures, Negr1-knockout (KO) hippocampus was less permissive for axons grown from EC of β-actin-enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) mice compared to WT hippocampus. Neuroanatomical analysis revealed abnormalities of EC axons in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) of Negr1-KO mice including increased numbers of axonal projections to the hilus. Neurotransmitter receptor ligand binding densities, a proxy of functional neurotransmitter receptor abundance, did not show differences in the DG of Negr1-KO mice but altered ligand binding densities to NMDA receptor and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors M1 and M2 were found in CA1 and CA3. Activity behavior, anxiety-like behavior and sensorimotor gating were not different between genotypes. However, Negr1-KO mice exhibited impaired social behavior compared to WT littermates. Moreover, Negr1-KO mice showed reversal learning deficits in the Morris water maze and increased susceptibility to pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced seizures. Thus, our results from neuronal growth assays, neuroanatomical analyses and behavioral assessments provide first evidence that deficiency of the psychiatric disease-associated Negr1 gene may affect neuronal growth and behavior. These findings might be relevant to further evaluate the role of NEGR1 in cognitive and psychiatric disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katyayani Singh
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.,Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Desirée Loreth
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bruno Pöttker
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Kyra Hefti
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jürgen Innos
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.,Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kathrin Schwald
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Heidi Hengstler
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lutz Menzel
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Clemens J Sommer
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany.,Focus Program Translational Neurosciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Konstantin Radyushkin
- Focus Program Translational Neurosciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany.,Mouse Behavioral Unit, Johannes Gutenberg-University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Oliver Kretz
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Mari-Anne Philips
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.,Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Carola A Haas
- Experimental Epilepsy Research, Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Katrin Frauenknecht
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany.,Institute of Neuropathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kersti Lilleväli
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.,Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Bernd Heimrich
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Eero Vasar
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.,Centre of Excellence in Genomics and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Michael K E Schäfer
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany.,Focus Program Translational Neurosciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Reichova A, Zatkova M, Bacova Z, Bakos J. Abnormalities in interactions of Rho GTPases with scaffolding proteins contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders. J Neurosci Res 2017; 96:781-788. [DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Revised: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Reichova
- Biomedical Research Center, Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Slovak Academy of Sciences; Bratislava Slovakia
| | - Martina Zatkova
- Biomedical Research Center, Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Slovak Academy of Sciences; Bratislava Slovakia
- Institute of Physiology; Comenius University, Faculty of Medicine; Bratislava Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Bacova
- Biomedical Research Center, Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Slovak Academy of Sciences; Bratislava Slovakia
- Department of Normal and Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine; Slovak Medical University; Bratislava Slovakia
| | - Jan Bakos
- Biomedical Research Center, Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Slovak Academy of Sciences; Bratislava Slovakia
- Institute of Physiology; Comenius University, Faculty of Medicine; Bratislava Slovakia
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Gilbert J, Man HY. Fundamental Elements in Autism: From Neurogenesis and Neurite Growth to Synaptic Plasticity. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:359. [PMID: 29209173 PMCID: PMC5701944 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a set of neurodevelopmental disorders with a high prevalence and impact on society. ASDs are characterized by deficits in both social behavior and cognitive function. There is a strong genetic basis underlying ASDs that is highly heterogeneous; however, multiple studies have highlighted the involvement of key processes, including neurogenesis, neurite growth, synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity in the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. In this review article, we focus on the major genes and signaling pathways implicated in ASD and discuss the cellular, molecular and functional studies that have shed light on common dysregulated pathways using in vitro, in vivo and human evidence. HighlightsAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) has a prevalence of 1 in 68 children in the United States. ASDs are highly heterogeneous in their genetic basis. ASDs share common features at the cellular and molecular levels in the brain. Most ASD genes are implicated in neurogenesis, structural maturation, synaptogenesis and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James Gilbert
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Heng-Ye Man
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Cdk5 Regulation of the GRAB-Mediated Rab8-Rab11 Cascade in Axon Outgrowth. J Neurosci 2017; 37:790-806. [PMID: 28123016 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2197-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Revised: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurons communicate with each other through their axons and dendrites. However, a full characterization of the molecular mechanisms involved in axon and dendrite formation is still incomplete. Neurite outgrowth requires the supply of membrane components for surface expansion. Two membrane sources for axon outgrowth are suggested: Golgi secretary vesicles and endocytic recycling endosomes. In non-neuronal cells, trafficking of secretary vesicles from Golgi is regulated by Rab8, a member of Rab small GTPases, and that of recycling endosomes is by Rab11, another member of Rabs. However, whether these vesicles are coordinately or independently transported in growing axons is unknown. Herein, we find that GRAB, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Rab8, is a novel regulator of axon outgrowth. Knockdown of GRAB suppressed axon outgrowth of cultured mouse brain cortical neurons. GRAB mediates the interaction between Rab11A and Rab8A, and this activity is regulated by phosphorylation at Ser169 and Ser180 by Cdk5-p35. The nonphosphorylatable GRAB mutant S169/180A promoted axonal outgrowth to a greater extent than did the phosphomimetic GRAB mutant S169/180D. Phosphorylation of GRAB suppressed its guanine nucleotide exchange factor activity and its ability to recruit Rab8A- to Rab11A-positive endosomes. In vivo function of GRAB and its Cdk5-phophorylation were shown in migration and process formation of developing neurons in embryonic mouse brains. These results indicate that GRAB regulates axonal outgrowth via activation and recruitment of Rab8A- to Rab11A-positive endosomes in a Cdk5-dependent manner. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT While axon outgrowth requires membrane supply for surface expansion, the molecular mechanisms regulating the membrane transport in growing axons remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that GRAB, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Rab8, is a novel regulator of axon outgrowth. GRAB promotes the axonal membrane transport by mediating the interaction between Rab11 and Rab8 in neurons. The activity of GRAB is regulated by phosphorylation with Cdk5. We describe an in vivo role for GRAB and its Cdk5 phosphorylation during neuronal migration and process formation in embryonic brains. Thus, the membrane supply for axonal outgrowth is regulated by Cdk5 through the Rab11-GRAB-Rab8 cascade.
Collapse
|
36
|
Justice ED, Barnum SJ, Kidd T. The WAGR syndrome gene PRRG4 is a functional homologue of the commissureless axon guidance gene. PLoS Genet 2017; 13:e1006865. [PMID: 28859078 PMCID: PMC5578492 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1006865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
WAGR syndrome is characterized by Wilm's tumor, aniridia, genitourinary abnormalities and intellectual disabilities. WAGR is caused by a chromosomal deletion that includes the PAX6, WT1 and PRRG4 genes. PRRG4 is proposed to contribute to the autistic symptoms of WAGR syndrome, but the molecular function of PRRG4 genes remains unknown. The Drosophila commissureless (comm) gene encodes a short transmembrane protein characterized by PY motifs, features that are shared by the PRRG4 protein. Comm intercepts the Robo axon guidance receptor in the ER/Golgi and targets Robo for degradation, allowing commissural axons to cross the CNS midline. Expression of human Robo1 in the fly CNS increases midline crossing and this was enhanced by co-expression of PRRG4, but not CYYR, Shisa or the yeast Rcr genes. In cell culture experiments, PRRG4 could re-localize hRobo1 from the cell surface, suggesting that PRRG4 is a functional homologue of Comm. Comm is required for axon guidance and synapse formation in the fly, so PRRG4 could contribute to the autistic symptoms of WAGR by disturbing either of these processes in the developing human brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth D. Justice
- Department of Biology/ms 314, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada, United States of America
| | - Sarah J. Barnum
- Department of Biology/ms 314, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada, United States of America
| | - Thomas Kidd
- Department of Biology/ms 314, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Potential Role of Microtubule Stabilizing Agents in Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18081627. [PMID: 28933765 PMCID: PMC5578018 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18081627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are characterized by neuroanatomical abnormalities indicative of corticogenesis disturbances. At the basis of NDDs cortical abnormalities, the principal developmental processes involved are cellular proliferation, migration and differentiation. NDDs are also considered “synaptic disorders” since accumulating evidence suggests that NDDs are developmental brain misconnection syndromes characterized by altered connectivity in local circuits and between brain regions. Microtubules and microtubule-associated proteins play a fundamental role in the regulation of basic neurodevelopmental processes, such as neuronal polarization and migration, neuronal branching and synaptogenesis. Here, the role of microtubule dynamics will be elucidated in regulating several neurodevelopmental steps. Furthermore, the correlation between abnormalities in microtubule dynamics and some NDDs will be described. Finally, we will discuss the potential use of microtubule stabilizing agents as a new pharmacological intervention for NDDs treatment.
Collapse
|
38
|
Catlett TS, Gomez TM. Division of labor in the growth cone by DSCR1. J Cell Biol 2017; 213:407-9. [PMID: 27216257 PMCID: PMC4878096 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201605012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Local protein synthesis directs growth cone turning of nascent axons, but mechanisms governing this process within compact, largely autonomous microenvironments remain poorly understood. In this issue, Wang et al. (2016. J. Cell Biol. http://dx.doi.org/10.1083/jcb.201510107) demonstrate that the calcineurin regulator Down syndrome critical region 1 protein modulates both basal neurite outgrowth and growth cone turning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy S Catlett
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706 Cell and Molecular Biology Training Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706
| | - Timothy M Gomez
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706 Cell and Molecular Biology Training Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Diaz-Beltran L, Esteban FJ, Varma M, Ortuzk A, David M, Wall DP. Cross-disorder comparative analysis of comorbid conditions reveals novel autism candidate genes. BMC Genomics 2017; 18:315. [PMID: 28427329 PMCID: PMC5399393 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-017-3667-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 03/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous studies have highlighted the elevated degree of comorbidity associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These comorbid conditions may add further impairments to individuals with autism and are substantially more prevalent compared to neurotypical populations. These high rates of comorbidity are not surprising taking into account the overlap of symptoms that ASD shares with other pathologies. From a research perspective, this suggests common molecular mechanisms involved in these conditions. Therefore, identifying crucial genes in the overlap between ASD and these comorbid disorders may help unravel the common biological processes involved and, ultimately, shed some light in the understanding of autism etiology. RESULTS In this work, we used a two-fold systems biology approach specially focused on biological processes and gene networks to conduct a comparative analysis of autism with 31 frequently comorbid disorders in order to define a multi-disorder subcomponent of ASD and predict new genes of potential relevance to ASD etiology. We validated our predictions by determining the significance of our candidate genes in high throughput transcriptome expression profiling studies. Using prior knowledge of disease-related biological processes and the interaction networks of the disorders related to autism, we identified a set of 19 genes not previously linked to ASD that were significantly differentially regulated in individuals with autism. In addition, these genes were of potential etiologic relevance to autism, given their enriched roles in neurological processes crucial for optimal brain development and function, learning and memory, cognition and social behavior. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our approach represents a novel perspective of autism from the point of view of related comorbid disorders and proposes a model by which prior knowledge of interaction networks may enlighten and focus the genome-wide search for autism candidate genes to better define the genetic heterogeneity of ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Diaz-Beltran
- Division of Systems Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Stanford University, 1265 Welch Road, Stanford, CA, 94305-5488, USA
- Division of Systems Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Systems Biology Unit, Department of Experimental Biology, University of Jaén, Jaén, Spain
| | - Francisco J Esteban
- Systems Biology Unit, Department of Experimental Biology, University of Jaén, Jaén, Spain
| | - Maya Varma
- Division of Systems Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Stanford University, 1265 Welch Road, Stanford, CA, 94305-5488, USA
- Division of Systems Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Alp Ortuzk
- Division of Systems Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Stanford University, 1265 Welch Road, Stanford, CA, 94305-5488, USA
- Division of Systems Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Maude David
- Division of Systems Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Stanford University, 1265 Welch Road, Stanford, CA, 94305-5488, USA
- Division of Systems Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Dennis P Wall
- Division of Systems Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Stanford University, 1265 Welch Road, Stanford, CA, 94305-5488, USA.
- Division of Systems Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Transcriptomic signatures of neuronal differentiation and their association with risk genes for autism spectrum and related neuropsychiatric disorders. Transl Psychiatry 2016; 6:e864. [PMID: 27483382 PMCID: PMC5022076 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2016.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Revised: 04/27/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Genes for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are also implicated in fragile X syndrome (FXS), intellectual disabilities (ID) or schizophrenia (SCZ), and converge on neuronal function and differentiation. The SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cell line, the most widely used system to study neurodevelopment, is currently discussed for its applicability to model cortical development. We implemented an optimal neuronal differentiation protocol of this system and evaluated neurodevelopment at the transcriptomic level using the CoNTeXT framework, a machine-learning algorithm based on human post-mortem brain data estimating developmental stage and regional identity of transcriptomic signatures. Our improved model in contrast to currently used SH-SY5Y models does capture early neurodevelopmental processes with high fidelity. We applied regression modelling, dynamic time warping analysis, parallel independent component analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis to identify activated gene sets and networks. Finally, we tested and compared these sets for enrichment of risk genes for neuropsychiatric disorders. We confirm a significant overlap of genes implicated in ASD with FXS, ID and SCZ. However, counterintuitive to this observation, we report that risk genes affect pathways specific for each disorder during early neurodevelopment. Genes implicated in ASD, ID, FXS and SCZ were enriched among the positive regulators, but only ID-implicated genes were also negative regulators of neuronal differentiation. ASD and ID genes were involved in dendritic branching modules, but only ASD risk genes were implicated in histone modification or axonal guidance. Only ID genes were over-represented among cell cycle modules. We conclude that the underlying signatures are disorder-specific and that the shared genetic architecture results in overlaps across disorders such as ID in ASD. Thus, adding developmental network context to genetic analyses will aid differentiating the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric disorders.
Collapse
|
41
|
Impairments in dendrite morphogenesis as etiology for neurodevelopmental disorders and implications for therapeutic treatments. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 68:946-978. [PMID: 27143622 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Revised: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Dendrite morphology is pivotal for neural circuitry functioning. While the causative relationship between small-scale dendrite morphological abnormalities (shape, density of dendritic spines) and neurodevelopmental disorders is well established, such relationship remains elusive for larger-scale dendrite morphological impairments (size, shape, branching pattern of dendritic trees). Here, we summarize published data on dendrite morphological irregularities in human patients and animal models for neurodevelopmental disorders, with focus on autism and schizophrenia. We next discuss high-risk genes for these disorders and their role in dendrite morphogenesis. We finally overview recent developments in therapeutic attempts and we discuss how they relate to dendrite morphology. We find that both autism and schizophrenia are accompanied by dendritic arbor morphological irregularities, and that majority of their high-risk genes regulate dendrite morphogenesis. Thus, we present a compelling argument that, along with smaller-scale morphological impairments in dendrites (spines and synapse), irregularities in larger-scale dendrite morphology (arbor shape, size) may be an important part of neurodevelopmental disorders' etiology. We suggest that this should not be ignored when developing future therapeutic treatments.
Collapse
|
42
|
Pérez C, Sawmiller D, Tan J. The role of heparan sulfate deficiency in autistic phenotype: potential involvement of Slit/Robo/srGAPs-mediated dendritic spine formation. Neural Dev 2016; 11:11. [PMID: 27089953 PMCID: PMC4836088 DOI: 10.1186/s13064-016-0066-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are the second most common developmental cause of disability in the United States. ASDs are accompanied with substantial economic and emotional cost. The brains of ASD patients have marked structural abnormalities, in the form of increased dendritic spines and decreased long distance connections. These structural differences may be due to deficiencies in Heparin Sulfate (HS), a proteoglycan involved in a variety of neurodevelopmental processes. Of particular interest is its role in the Slit/Robo pathway. The Slit/Robo pathway is known to be involved in the regulation of axonal guidance and dendritic spine formation. HS mediates the Slit/Robo interaction; without its presence Slit's repulsive activity is abrogated. Slit/Robo regulates dendritic spine formation through its interaction with srGAPs (slit-robo GTPase Activating Proteins), which leads to downstream signaling, actin cytoskeleton depolymerization and dendritic spine collapse. Through interference with this pathway, HS deficiency can lead to excess spine formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine Pérez
- Rashid Laboratory for Developmental Neurobiology, Silver Child Development Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 3515 E Fletcher Ave., Tampa, FL 33613 USA
| | - Darrell Sawmiller
- Rashid Laboratory for Developmental Neurobiology, Silver Child Development Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 3515 E Fletcher Ave., Tampa, FL 33613 USA
| | - Jun Tan
- Rashid Laboratory for Developmental Neurobiology, Silver Child Development Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 3515 E Fletcher Ave., Tampa, FL 33613 USA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Dallérac G, Rouach N. Astrocytes as new targets to improve cognitive functions. Prog Neurobiol 2016; 144:48-67. [PMID: 26969413 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2016.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2015] [Revised: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are now viewed as key elements of brain wiring as well as neuronal communication. Indeed, they not only bridge the gap between metabolic supplies by blood vessels and neurons, but also allow fine control of neurotransmission by providing appropriate signaling molecules and insulation through a tight enwrapping of synapses. Recognition that astroglia is essential to neuronal communication is nevertheless fairly recent and the large body of evidence dissecting such role has focused on the synaptic level by identifying neuro- and gliotransmitters uptaken and released at synaptic or extrasynaptic sites. Yet, more integrated research deciphering the impact of astroglial functions on neuronal network activity have led to the reasonable assumption that the role of astrocytes in supervising synaptic activity translates in influencing neuronal processing and cognitive functions. Several investigations using recent genetic tools now support this notion by showing that inactivating or boosting astroglial function directly affects cognitive abilities. Accordingly, brain diseases resulting in impaired cognitive functions have seen their physiopathological mechanisms revisited in light of this primary protagonist of brain processing. We here provide a review of the current knowledge on the role of astrocytes in cognition and in several brain diseases including neurodegenerative disorders, psychiatric illnesses, as well as other conditions such as epilepsy. Potential astroglial therapeutic targets are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Glenn Dallérac
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiopathology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR 7241, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris, France.
| | - Nathalie Rouach
- Neuroglial Interactions in Cerebral Physiopathology, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR 7241, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1050, Labex Memolife, PSL Research University, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
The Role of Hypothalamic Neuropeptides in Neurogenesis and Neuritogenesis. Neural Plast 2016; 2016:3276383. [PMID: 26881105 PMCID: PMC4737468 DOI: 10.1155/2016/3276383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Revised: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 11/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamus is a source of neural progenitor cells which give rise to different populations of specialized and differentiated cells during brain development. Newly formed neurons in the hypothalamus can synthesize and release various neuropeptides. Although term neuropeptide recently undergoes redefinition, small-size hypothalamic neuropeptides remain major signaling molecules mediating short- and long-term effects on brain development. They represent important factors in neurite growth and formation of neural circuits. There is evidence suggesting that the newly generated hypothalamic neurons may be involved in regulation of metabolism, energy balance, body weight, and social behavior as well. Here we review recent data on the role of hypothalamic neuropeptides in adult neurogenesis and neuritogenesis with special emphasis on the development of food intake and social behavior related brain circuits.
Collapse
|
45
|
Zeidán-Chuliá F, Salmina AB, Noda M, Verkhratsky A. Rho GTPase RAC1 at the Molecular Interface Between Genetic and Environmental Factors of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Neuromolecular Med 2015; 17:333-4. [PMID: 26305490 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-015-8366-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fares Zeidán-Chuliá
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-anexo-Bairro Santana, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil.
| | - Alla B Salmina
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical, Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Chemistry, Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Mami Noda
- Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Alexei Verkhratsky
- Faculty of Life Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain and Department of Neurosciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
- University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| |
Collapse
|