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Methods to Study the Myenteric Plexus of Rat Small Intestine. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023; 43:315-325. [PMID: 34932174 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-021-01181-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The close interaction between the enteric nervous system, microbiome, and brain in vertebrates is an emerging topic of recent studies. Different species such as rat, mouse, and human are currently being used for this purpose, among others. The transferability of protocols for tissue isolation and sample collection is not always straightforward. Thus, the present work presents a new protocol for isolation and sample collection of rat myenteric plexus cells for in vivo as well as in vitro studies. With the methods and chemicals described in detail, a wide variety of investigations can be performed with regard to normal physiological as well as pathological processes in the postnatal developing enteric nervous system. The fast and efficient preparation of the intestine as the first step is particularly important. We have developed and described a LIENS chamber to obtain optimal tissue quality during intestinal freezing. Cryosections of the flat, snap-frozen intestine can then be prepared for histological examination of the various wall layers of the intestine, e.g. by immunohistochemistry. In addition, these cryosections are suitable for the preparation of defined regions, as shown here using the ganglia of the mesenteric plexus. This specific tissue was obtained by laser microdissection, making the presented methodology also suitable for subsequent analyses that require high quality (specificity) of the samples. Furthermore, we present here a fully modernized protocol for the cultivation of myenteric neurons from the rat intestine, which is suitable for a variety of in vitro studies.
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Okada Y, Hosoi N, Matsuzaki Y, Fukai Y, Hiraga A, Nakai J, Nitta K, Shinohara Y, Konno A, Hirai H. Development of microglia-targeting adeno-associated viral vectors as tools to study microglial behavior in vivo. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1224. [DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-04200-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractHere we describe the microglia-targeting adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors containing a 1.7-kb putative promoter region of microglia/macrophage-specific ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1), along with repeated miRNA target sites for microRNA (miR)-9 and miR-129-2-3p. The 1.7-kb genomic sequence upstream of the start codon in exon 1 of the Iba1 (Aif1) gene, functions as microglia preferential promoter in the striatum and cerebellum. Furthermore, ectopic transgene expression in non-microglial cells is markedly suppressed upon adding two sets of 4-repeated miRNA target sites for miR-9 and miR-129-2-3p, which are expressed exclusively in non-microglial cells and sponged AAV-derived mRNAs. Our vectors transduced ramified microglia in healthy tissues and reactive microglia in lipopolysaccharide-treated mice and a mouse model of neurodegenerative disease. Moreover, live fluorescent imaging allowed the monitoring of microglial motility and intracellular Ca2+ mobilization. Thus, microglia-targeting AAV vectors are valuable for studying microglial pathophysiology and therapies, particularly in the striatum and cerebellum.
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Eickhoff A, Tjaden J, Stahlke S, Vorgerd M, Theis V, Matschke V, Theiss C. Effects of progesterone on T-type-Ca 2+-channel expression in Purkinje cells. Neural Regen Res 2022; 17:2465-2471. [PMID: 35535898 PMCID: PMC9120685 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.339008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasticity of cerebellar Purkinje cells (PC) is influenced by progesterone via the classical progesterone receptors PR-A and PR-B by stimulating dendritogenesis, spinogenesis, and synaptogenesis in these cells. Dissociated PC cultures were used to analyze progesterone effects at a molecular level on the voltage-gated T-type-Ca2+-channels Cav3.1, Cav3.2, and Cav3.3 as they helped determine neuronal plasticity by regulating Ca2+-influx in neuronal cells. The results showed direct effects of progesterone on the mRNA expression of T-type-Ca2+-channels, as well as on the protein kinases A and C being involved in downstream signaling pathways that play an important role in neuronal plasticity. For the mRNA expression studies of T-type-Ca2+-channels and protein kinases of the signaling cascade, laser microdissection and purified PC cultures of different maturation stages were used. Immunohistochemical staining was also performed to characterize the localization of T-type-Ca2+-channels in PC. Experimental progesterone treatment was performed on the purified PC culture for 24 and 48 hours. Our results show that progesterone increases the expression of Cav3.1 and Cav3.3 and associated protein kinases A and C in PC at the mRNA level within 48 hours after treatment at latest. These effects extend the current knowledge of the function of progesterone in the central nervous system and provide an explanatory approach for its influence on neuronal plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Eickhoff
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jonas Tjaden
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sarah Stahlke
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Matthias Vorgerd
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Center Ruhrgebiet, University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Verena Theis
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Veronika Matschke
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Carsten Theiss
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Tjaden J, Eickhoff A, Stahlke S, Gehmeyr J, Vorgerd M, Theis V, Matschke V, Theiss C. Expression Pattern of T-Type Ca 2+ Channels in Cerebellar Purkinje Cells after VEGF Treatment. Cells 2021; 10:2277. [PMID: 34571926 PMCID: PMC8470219 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
T-type Ca2+ channels, generating low threshold calcium influx in neurons, play a crucial role in the function of neuronal networks and their plasticity. To further investigate their role in the complex field of research in plasticity of neurons on a molecular level, this study aimed to analyse the impact of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) on these channels. VEGF, known as a player in vasculogenesis, also shows potent influence in the central nervous system, where it elicits neuronal growth. To investigate the influence of VEGF on the three T-type Ca2+ channel isoforms, Cav3.1 (encoded by Cacna1g), Cav3.2 (encoded by Cacna1h), and Cav3.3 (encoded by Cacna1i), lasermicrodissection of in vivo-grown Purkinje cells (PCs) was performed, gene expression was analysed via qPCR and compared to in vitro-grown PCs. We investigated the VEGF receptor composition of in vivo- and in vitro-grown PCs and underlined the importance of VEGF receptor 2 for PCs. Furthermore, we performed immunostaining of T-type Ca2+ channels with in vivo- and in vitro-grown PCs and showed the distribution of T-type Ca2+ channel expression during PC development. Overall, our findings provide the first evidence that the mRNA expression of Cav3.1, Cav3.2, and Cav3.3 increases due to VEGF stimulation, which indicates an impact of VEGF on neuronal plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Tjaden
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (J.T.); (A.E.); (S.S.); (J.G.); (V.T.); (V.M.)
| | - Annika Eickhoff
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (J.T.); (A.E.); (S.S.); (J.G.); (V.T.); (V.M.)
| | - Sarah Stahlke
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (J.T.); (A.E.); (S.S.); (J.G.); (V.T.); (V.M.)
| | - Julian Gehmeyr
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (J.T.); (A.E.); (S.S.); (J.G.); (V.T.); (V.M.)
| | - Matthias Vorgerd
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Center Ruhrgebiet, University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Buerkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789 Bochum, Germany;
| | - Verena Theis
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (J.T.); (A.E.); (S.S.); (J.G.); (V.T.); (V.M.)
| | - Veronika Matschke
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (J.T.); (A.E.); (S.S.); (J.G.); (V.T.); (V.M.)
| | - Carsten Theiss
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (J.T.); (A.E.); (S.S.); (J.G.); (V.T.); (V.M.)
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5
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Gehmeyr J, Maghnouj A, Tjaden J, Vorgerd M, Hahn S, Matschke V, Theis V, Theiss C. Disabling VEGF-Response of Purkinje Cells by Downregulation of KDR via miRNA-204-5p. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2173. [PMID: 33671638 PMCID: PMC7926311 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22042173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is well known for its wide-ranging functions, not only in the vascular system, but also in the central (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS). To study the role of VEGF in neuronal protection, growth and maturation processes have recently attracted much interest. These effects are mainly mediated by VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR-2). Current studies have shown the age-dependent expression of VEGFR-2 in Purkinje cells (PC), promoting dendritogenesis in neonatal, but not in mature stages. We hypothesize that microRNAs (miRNA/miR) might be involved in the regulation of VEGFR-2 expression during the development of PC. In preliminary studies, we performed a miRNA profiling and identified miR204-5p as a potential regulator of VEGFR-2 expression. In the recent study, organotypic slice cultures of rat cerebella (postnatal day (p) 1 and 9) were cultivated and VEGFR-2 expression in PC was verified via immunohistochemistry. Additionally, PC at age p9 and p30 were isolated from cryosections by laser microdissection (LMD) to analyse VEGFR-2 expression by quantitative RT-PCR. To investigate the influence of miR204-5p on VEGFR-2 levels in PC, synthetic constructs including short hairpin (sh)-miR204-5p cassettes (miRNA-mimics), were microinjected into PC. The effects were analysed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and morphometric analysis. For the first time, we could show that miR204-5p has a negative effect on VEGF sensitivity in juvenile PC, resulting in a significant decrease of dendritic growth compared to untreated juvenile PC. In mature PC, the overexpression of miR204-5p leads to a shrinkage of dendrites despite VEGF treatment. The results of this study illustrate, for the first time, which miR204-5p expression has the potential to play a key role in cerebellar development by inhibiting VEGFR-2 expression in PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Gehmeyr
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitaetsstr. 150, Building MA, Level 5, 44780 Bochum, Germany; (J.G.); (J.T.); (V.M.); (V.T.)
| | - Abdelouahid Maghnouj
- Clinical Research Centre (ZKF), Department of Molecular Gastrointestinal Oncology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitaetsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (A.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Jonas Tjaden
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitaetsstr. 150, Building MA, Level 5, 44780 Bochum, Germany; (J.G.); (J.T.); (V.M.); (V.T.)
| | - Matthias Vorgerd
- Neuromuscular Center Ruhrgebiet, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Buerkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789 Bochum, Germany;
| | - Stephan Hahn
- Clinical Research Centre (ZKF), Department of Molecular Gastrointestinal Oncology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitaetsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (A.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Veronika Matschke
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitaetsstr. 150, Building MA, Level 5, 44780 Bochum, Germany; (J.G.); (J.T.); (V.M.); (V.T.)
| | - Verena Theis
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitaetsstr. 150, Building MA, Level 5, 44780 Bochum, Germany; (J.G.); (J.T.); (V.M.); (V.T.)
| | - Carsten Theiss
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitaetsstr. 150, Building MA, Level 5, 44780 Bochum, Germany; (J.G.); (J.T.); (V.M.); (V.T.)
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In Search of Molecular Markers for Cerebellar Neurons. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041850. [PMID: 33673348 PMCID: PMC7918299 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The cerebellum, the region of the brain primarily responsible for motor coordination and balance, also contributes to non-motor functions, such as cognition, speech, and language comprehension. Maldevelopment and dysfunction of the cerebellum lead to cerebellar ataxia and may even be associated with autism, depression, and cognitive deficits. Hence, normal development of the cerebellum and its neuronal circuitry is critical for the cerebellum to function properly. Although nine major types of cerebellar neurons have been identified in the cerebellar cortex to date, the exact functions of each type are not fully understood due to a lack of cell-specific markers in neurons that renders cell-specific labeling and functional study by genetic manipulation unfeasible. The availability of cell-specific markers is thus vital for understanding the role of each neuronal type in the cerebellum and for elucidating the interactions between cell types within both the developing and mature cerebellum. This review discusses various technical approaches and recent progress in the search for cell-specific markers for cerebellar neurons.
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Segaran RC, Chan LY, Wang H, Sethi G, Tang FR. Neuronal Development-Related miRNAs as Biomarkers for Alzheimer's Disease, Depression, Schizophrenia and Ionizing Radiation Exposure. Curr Med Chem 2021; 28:19-52. [PMID: 31965936 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327666200121122910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Radiation exposure may induce Alzheimer's disease (AD), depression or schizophrenia. A number of experimental and clinical studies suggest the involvement of miRNA in the development of these diseases, and also in the neuropathological changes after brain radiation exposure. The current literature review indicated the involvement of 65 miRNAs in neuronal development in the brain. In the brain tissue, blood, or cerebral spinal fluid (CSF), 11, 55, or 28 miRNAs are involved in the development of AD respectively, 89, 50, 19 miRNAs in depression, and 102, 35, 8 miRNAs in schizophrenia. We compared miRNAs regulating neuronal development to those involved in the genesis of AD, depression and schizophrenia and also those driving radiation-induced brain neuropathological changes by reviewing the available data. We found that 3, 11, or 8 neuronal developmentrelated miRNAs from the brain tissue, 13, 16 or 14 miRNAs from the blood of patient with AD, depression and schizophrenia respectively were also involved in radiation-induced brain pathological changes, suggesting a possibly specific involvement of these miRNAs in radiation-induced development of AD, depression and schizophrenia respectively. On the other hand, we noted that radiationinduced changes of two miRNAs, i.e., miR-132, miR-29 in the brain tissue, three miRNAs, i.e., miR- 29c-5p, miR-106b-5p, miR-34a-5p in the blood were also involved in the development of AD, depression and schizophrenia, thereby suggesting that these miRNAs may be involved in the common brain neuropathological changes, such as impairment of neurogenesis and reduced learning memory ability observed in these three diseases and also after radiation exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renu Chandra Segaran
- Radiation Physiology Lab, Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Initiative, National University of Singapore, CREATE Tower, Singapore 138602, Singapore
| | - Li Yun Chan
- Radiation Physiology Lab, Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Initiative, National University of Singapore, CREATE Tower, Singapore 138602, Singapore
| | - Hong Wang
- Radiation Physiology Lab, Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Initiative, National University of Singapore, CREATE Tower, Singapore 138602, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
| | - Feng Ru Tang
- Radiation Physiology Lab, Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Initiative, National University of Singapore, CREATE Tower, Singapore 138602, Singapore
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8
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Guennoun R. Progesterone in the Brain: Hormone, Neurosteroid and Neuroprotectant. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155271. [PMID: 32722286 PMCID: PMC7432434 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone has a broad spectrum of actions in the brain. Among these, the neuroprotective effects are well documented. Progesterone neural effects are mediated by multiple signaling pathways involving binding to specific receptors (intracellular progesterone receptors (PR); membrane-associated progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1); and membrane progesterone receptors (mPRs)) and local bioconversion to 3α,5α-tetrahydroprogesterone (3α,5α-THPROG), which modulates GABAA receptors. This brief review aims to give an overview of the synthesis, metabolism, neuroprotective effects, and mechanism of action of progesterone in the rodent and human brain. First, we succinctly describe the biosynthetic pathways and the expression of enzymes and receptors of progesterone; as well as the changes observed after brain injuries and in neurological diseases. Then, we summarize current data on the differential fluctuations in brain levels of progesterone and its neuroactive metabolites according to sex, age, and neuropathological conditions. The third part is devoted to the neuroprotective effects of progesterone and 3α,5α-THPROG in different experimental models, with a focus on traumatic brain injury and stroke. Finally, we highlight the key role of the classical progesterone receptors (PR) in mediating the neuroprotective effects of progesterone after stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachida Guennoun
- U 1195 Inserm and University Paris Saclay, University Paris Sud, 94276 Le kremlin Bicêtre, France
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9
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Glaesel K, May C, Marcus K, Matschke V, Theiss C, Theis V. miR-129-5p and miR-130a-3p Regulate VEGFR-2 Expression in Sensory and Motor Neurons during Development. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113839. [PMID: 32481647 PMCID: PMC7312753 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [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: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The wide-ranging influence of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) within the central (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS), for example through effects on axonal growth or neuronal cell survival, is mainly mediated by VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR-2). However, the regulation of VEGFR-2 expression during development is not yet well understood. As microRNAs are considered to be key players during neuronal maturation and regenerative processes, we identified the two microRNAs (miRNAs)-miR-129-5p and miR-130a-3p-that may have an impact on VEGFR-2 expression in young and mature sensory and lower motor neurons. The expression level of VEGFR-2 was analyzed by using in situ hybridization, RT-qPCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry in developing rats. microRNAs were validated within the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia. To unveil the molecular impact of our candidate microRNAs, dissociated cell cultures of sensory and lower motor neurons were transfected with mimics and inhibitors. We depicted age-dependent VEGFR-2 expression in sensory and lower motor neurons. In detail, in lower motor neurons, VEGFR-2 expression was significantly reduced during maturation, in conjunction with an increased level of miR-129-5p. In sensory dorsal root ganglia, VEGFR-2 expression increased during maturation and was accompanied by an overexpression of miR-130a-3p. In a second step, the functional significance of these microRNAs with respect to VEGFR-2 expression was proven. Whereas miR-129-5p seems to decrease VEGFR-2 expression in a direct manner in the CNS, miR-130a-3p might indirectly control VEGFR-2 expression in the PNS. A detailed understanding of genetic VEGFR-2 expression control might promote new strategies for the treatment of severe neurological diseases like ischemia or peripheral nerve injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Glaesel
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany; (K.G.); (V.M.); (V.T.)
| | - Caroline May
- Medical Proteom-Center, Ruhr University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, NRW, Germany; (C.M.); (K.M.)
| | - Katrin Marcus
- Medical Proteom-Center, Ruhr University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, NRW, Germany; (C.M.); (K.M.)
| | - Veronika Matschke
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany; (K.G.); (V.M.); (V.T.)
| | - Carsten Theiss
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany; (K.G.); (V.M.); (V.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-234-32-25018
| | - Verena Theis
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany; (K.G.); (V.M.); (V.T.)
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Laneve P, Caffarelli E. The Non-coding Side of Medulloblastoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:275. [PMID: 32528946 PMCID: PMC7266940 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common pediatric brain tumor and a primary cause of cancer-related death in children. Until a few years ago, only clinical and histological features were exploited for MB pathological classification and outcome prognosis. In the past decade, the advancement of high-throughput molecular analyses that integrate genetic, epigenetic, and expression data, together with the availability of increasing wealth of patient samples, revealed the existence of four molecularly distinct MB subgroups. Their further classification into 12 subtypes not only reduced the well-characterized intertumoral heterogeneity, but also provided new opportunities for the design of targets for precision oncology. Moreover, the identification of tumorigenic and self-renewing subpopulations of cancer stem cells in MB has increased our knowledge of its biology. Despite these advancements, the origin of MB is still debated, and its molecular bases are poorly characterized. A major goal in the field is to identify the key genes that drive tumor growth and the mechanisms through which they are able to promote tumorigenesis. So far, only protein-coding genes acting as oncogenic drivers have been characterized in each MB subgroup. The contribution of the non-coding side of the genome, which produces a plethora of transcripts that control fundamental biological processes, as the cell choice between proliferation and differentiation, is still unappreciated. This review wants to fill this major gap by summarizing the recent findings on the impact of non-coding RNAs in MB initiation and progression. Furthermore, their potential role as specific MB biomarkers and novel therapeutic targets is also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Laneve
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Caffarelli
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
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11
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González SL, Coronel MF, Raggio MC, Labombarda F. Progesterone receptor-mediated actions and the treatment of central nervous system disorders: An up-date of the known and the challenge of the unknown. Steroids 2020; 153:108525. [PMID: 31634489 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2019.108525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone has been shown to exert a wide range of remarkable protective actions in experimental models of central nervous system injury or disease. However, the intimate mechanisms involved in each of these beneficial effects are not fully depicted. In this review, we intend to give the readers a thorough revision on what is known about the participation of diverse receptors and signaling pathways in progesterone-mediated neuroprotective, pro-myelinating and anti-inflammatory outcomes, as well as point out to novel regulatory mechanisms that could open new perspectives in steroid-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana L González
- Laboratorio de Nocicepción y Dolor Neuropático, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, C1428ADN Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155, C1121ABG Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - María F Coronel
- Laboratorio de Nocicepción y Dolor Neuropático, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, C1428ADN Buenos Aires, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Austral, Presidente Perón 1500, B1629AHJ Pilar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María C Raggio
- Laboratorio de Nocicepción y Dolor Neuropático, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, C1428ADN Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Florencia Labombarda
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica Neuroendócrina, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, C1428ADN, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155, C1121ABG Buenos Aires, Argentina
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12
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Theis V, Theiss C. Progesterone Effects in the Nervous System. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2019; 302:1276-1286. [PMID: 30951258 DOI: 10.1002/ar.24121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The sex hormone progesterone is mainly known as a key factor in establishing and maintaining pregnancy. In addition, progesterone has been shown to induce morphological changes in the central and peripheral nervous system by increasing dendrito-, spino-, and synaptogenesis in Purkinje cells (Wessel et al.: Cell Mol Life Sci (2014a) 1723-1740) and increasing axonal outgrowth in dorsal root ganglia (Olbrich et al.: Endocrinology (2013) 3784-3795). These effects mediated mainly by the classical progesterone receptors (PRs) A and B seem to be limited to young neurons. It may be assumed that microRNAs (miRNAs), which are potent regulators of nervous system maturation and degeneration, are also involved in the regulation of progesterone-mediated neuronal plasticity by altering the expression patterns of the corresponding PR A/B receptors (Theis and Theiss: Neural Regen Res (2015) 547-549, Pieczora et al.: Cerebellum (2017) 376-387). This review critically discusses current data on the neuroprotective effect of progesterone and its corresponding receptors in the nervous system, with possible regulatory processes by miRNAs. Preclinical studies on stroke and traumatic brain injury revealed neuroprotective and neuroregenerative effects of progesterone in the treatment of severe neurological diseases in animal models, but have so far failed in humans. In this context, the identification of specific miRNAs that regulate the expression of progesterone and PR could help to exploit the neuroprotective potential of progesterone for the treatment of various neurological disorders. Anat Rec, 302:1276-1286, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Theis
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Carsten Theiss
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Cultivation of Purified Primary Purkinje Cells from Rat Cerebella. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2018; 38:1399-1412. [DOI: 10.1007/s10571-018-0606-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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14
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Liu Q, Zhang L, Li H. New Insights: MicroRNA Function in CNS Development and Psychiatric Diseases. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s40495-018-0129-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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15
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Abstract
Epigenetics is a growing field of knowledge that is changing our understanding of pathologic processes. For many cerebellar disorders, recent discoveries of epigenetic mechanisms help us to understand their pathophysiology. In this chapter, a short explanation of each epigenetic mechanism (including methylation, histone modification, and miRNA) is followed by references to those cerebellar disorders in which relevant epigenetic advances have been made. The importance of normal timing and distribution of methylation during neurodevelopment is explained. Abnormal methylation and altered gene expression in the developing cerebellum have been related to neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, Rett syndrome, and fragile X syndrome. DNA packaging by histones is another important epigenetic mechanism in cerebellar functioning. Current knowledge of histone abnormalities in cerebellar diseases such as Friedreich ataxia and spinocerebellar ataxias is reviewed, including implications for new therapeutic approaches to these degenerative diseases. Finally, micro RNAs, the third mechanism to modulate DNA expression, and their role in normal cerebellar development and disease are described. Understanding how genetic and epigenetic mechanisms interact not only in normal cerebellar development but also in disease is a great challenge. However, such understanding will lead to promising new therapeutic possibilities as is already occurring in other areas of medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Serrano
- Pediatric Neurology Department and Pediatric Institute for Genetic Medicine and Rare Diseases, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu; and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain.
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Herrfurth L, Theis V, Matschke V, May C, Marcus K, Theiss C. Morphological Plasticity of Emerging Purkinje Cells in Response to Exogenous VEGF. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:2. [PMID: 28194096 PMCID: PMC5276996 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is well known as the growth factor with wide-ranging functions even in the central nervous system (CNS). Presently, most attention is given to the investigation of its role in neuronal protection, growth and maturation processes, whereby most effects are mediated through VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR-2). The purpose of our current study is to provide new insights into the impact of VEGF on immature and mature Purkinje cells (PCs) in accordance with maturity and related receptor expression. Therefore, to expand our knowledge of VEGF effects in PCs development and associated VEGFR-2 expression, we used cultivated organotypic cerebellar slice cultures in immunohistochemical or microinjection studies, followed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and morphometric analysis. Additionally, we incorporated in our study the method of laser microdissection, followed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). For the first time we could show the age-dependent VEGF sensitivity of PCs with the largest promoting effects being on dendritic length and cell soma size in neonatal and juvenile stages. Once mature, PCs were no longer susceptible to VEGF stimulation. Analysis of VEGFR-2 expression revealed its presence in PCs throughout development, which underlined its mediating functions in neuronal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard Herrfurth
- Medizinische Fakultät, Institut für Anatomie, Abteilung für Cytologie, Ruhr-Universität Bochum Bochum, Germany
| | - Verena Theis
- Medizinische Fakultät, Institut für Anatomie, Abteilung für Cytologie, Ruhr-Universität Bochum Bochum, Germany
| | - Veronika Matschke
- Medizinische Fakultät, Institut für Anatomie, Abteilung für Cytologie, Ruhr-Universität Bochum Bochum, Germany
| | - Caroline May
- Abteilung für Medizinische Proteomik/Bioanalytik, Medizinisches Proteom-Center, Ruhr-University Bochum Bochum, Germany
| | - Katrin Marcus
- Abteilung für Medizinische Proteomik/Bioanalytik, Medizinisches Proteom-Center, Ruhr-University Bochum Bochum, Germany
| | - Carsten Theiss
- Medizinische Fakultät, Institut für Anatomie, Abteilung für Cytologie, Ruhr-Universität Bochum Bochum, Germany
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