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Moreno RJ, Amara R, Ashwood P. Toward a better understanding of T cell dysregulation in autism: An integrative review. Brain Behav Immun 2024:S0889-1591(24)00649-4. [PMID: 39378971 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2024.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 10/05/2024] [Indexed: 10/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly heterogeneous disorder characterized by impairments in social, communicative, and restrictive behaviors. Over the past 20 years, research has highlighted the role of the immune system in regulating neurodevelopment and behavior. In ASD, immune abnormalities are frequently observed, such as elevations in pro-inflammatory cytokines, alterations in immune cell frequencies, and dysregulated mechanisms of immune suppression. The adaptive immune system - the branch of the immune system conferring cellular immunity - may be involved in the etiology of ASD. Specifically, dysregulated T cell activity, characterized by altered cellular function and increased cytokine release, presence of inflammatory phenotypes and altered cellular signaling, has been consistently observed in several studies across multiple laboratories and geographic regions. Similarly, mechanisms regulating their activation are also disrupted. T cells at homeostasis coordinate the healthy development of the central nervous system (CNS) during early prenatal and postnatal development, and aid in CNS maintenance into adulthood. Thus, T cell dysregulation may play a role in neurodevelopment and the behavioral and cognitive manifestations observed in ASD. Outside of the CNS, aberrant T cell activity may also be responsible for the increased frequency of immune based conditions in the ASD population, such as allergies, gut inflammation and autoimmunity. In this review, we will discuss the current understanding of T cell biology in ASD and speculate on mechanisms behind their dysregulation. This review also evaluates how aberrant T cell biology affects gastrointestinal issues and behavior in the context of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Moreno
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, UC Davis, CA, USA; The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis, CA, USA
| | - R Amara
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, UC Davis, CA, USA; The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis, CA, USA
| | - P Ashwood
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, UC Davis, CA, USA; The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis, CA, USA.
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Luo J, Luo Y, Zhao M, Liu Y, Liu J, Du Z, Gong H, Wang L, Zhao J, Wang X, Gu Z, Zhao W, Liu T, Fan X. Fullerenols Ameliorate Social Deficiency and Rescue Cognitive Dysfunction of BTBR T +Itpr3 tf/J Autistic-Like Mice. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:6035-6055. [PMID: 38911505 PMCID: PMC11192297 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s459511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects social interaction and communication and can cause stereotypic behavior. Fullerenols, a type of carbon nanomaterial known for its neuroprotective properties, have not yet been studied for their potential in treating ASD. We aimed to investigate its role in improving autistic behaviors in BTBR T+Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mice and its underlying mechanism, which could provide reliable clues for future ASD treatments. Methods Our research involved treating C57BL/6J (C57) and BTBR mice with either 0.9% NaCl or fullerenols (10 mg/kg) daily for one week at seven weeks of age. We then conducted ASD-related behavioral tests in the eighth week and used RNA-seq to screen for vital pathways in the mouse hippocampus. Additionally, we used real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) to verify related pathway genes and evaluated the number of stem cells in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) by Immunofluorescence staining. Results Our findings revealed that fullerenols treatment significantly improved the related ASD-like behaviors of BTBR mice, manifested by enhanced social ability and improved cognitive deficits. Immunofluorescence results showed that fullerenols treatment increased the number of DCX+ and SOX2+/GFAP+ cells in the DG region of BTBR mice, indicating an expanded neural progenitor cell (NPC) pool of BTBR mice. RNA-seq analysis of the mouse hippocampus showed that VEGFA was involved in the rescued hippocampal neurogenesis by fullerenols treatment. Conclusion In conclusion, our findings suggest that fullerenols treatment improves ASD-like behavior in BTBR mice by upregulating VEGFA, making nanoparticle- fullerenols a promising drug for ASD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Luo
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Luo
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, People’s Republic of China
| | - Maoru Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety and CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Institute of High Energy Physics and National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yulong Liu
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiayin Liu
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhulin Du
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hong Gong
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lian Wang
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jinghui Zhao
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaqing Wang
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhanjun Gu
- Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety and CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Institute of High Energy Physics and National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenhui Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tianyao Liu
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaotang Fan
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, People’s Republic of China
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Ryabushkina YA, Ayriyants KA, Sapronova AA, Mutovina AS, Kolesnikova MM, Mezhlumyan EV, Bondar NP, Reshetnikov VV. Effects of different types of induced neonatal inflammation on development and behavior of C57BL/6 and BTBR mice. Physiol Behav 2024; 280:114550. [PMID: 38614416 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2024.114550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation in the early postnatal period can disturb trajectories of the completion of normal brain development and can lead to mental illnesses, such as depression, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders later in life. In our study, we focused on evaluating short- and long-term effects of neonatal inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide, poly(I:C), or their combination in female and male C57BL/6 and BTBR mice. We chose the BTBR strain as potentially more susceptible to neonatal inflammation because these mice have behavioral, neuroanatomical, and physiological features of autism spectrum disorders, an abnormal immune response, and several structural aberrations in the brain. Our results indicated that BTBR mice are more sensitive to the influence of the neonatal immune activation (NIA) on the formation of neonatal reflexes than C57BL/6 mice are. In these experiments, the injection of lipopolysaccharide had an effect on the formation of the cliff aversion reflex in female BTBR mice. Nonetheless, NIA had no delayed effects on either social behavior or anxiety-like behavior in juvenile and adolescent BTBR and C57BL/6 mice. Altogether, our data show that NIA has mimetic-, age-, and strain-dependent effects on the development of neonatal reflexes and on exploratory activity in BTBR and C57BL/6 mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuliya A Ryabushkina
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Kseniya A Ayriyants
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Anna A Sapronova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Anastasia S Mutovina
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia; Novosibirsk State University, Pirogova Street 2, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Maria M Kolesnikova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia; Novosibirsk State University, Pirogova Street 2, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Eva V Mezhlumyan
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia; Novosibirsk State University, Pirogova Street 2, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Natalya P Bondar
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia; Novosibirsk State University, Pirogova Street 2, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia.
| | - Vasiliy V Reshetnikov
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia; Department of Biotechnology, Sirius University of Science and Technology, 1 Olympic Avenue, Sochi 354340, Russia.
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Li Y, Lu J, Zhang J, Gui W, Xie W. Molecular insights into enriched environments and behavioral improvements in autism: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1328240. [PMID: 38362032 PMCID: PMC10867156 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1328240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Aims Autism is a multifaceted developmental disorder of the nervous system, that necessitates novel therapeutic approaches beyond traditional medications and psychosomatic therapy, such as appropriate sensory integration training. This systematic mapping review aims to synthesize existing knowledge on enriching environmental interventions as an alternative avenue for improving autism, guiding future research and practice. Method A comprehensive search using the terms ASD and Enriched Environment was conducted across PubMed, EMBASE, ISI, Cochrane, and OVID databases. Most of the literature included in this review was derived from animal model experiments, with a particular focus on assessing the effect of EE on autism-like behavior, along with related pathways and molecular mechanisms. Following extensive group discussion and screening, a total of 19 studies were included for analysis. Results Enriched environmental interventions exhibited the potential to induce both behavioral and biochemical changes, ameliorating autism-like behaviors in animal models. These improvements were attributed to the targeting of BDNF-related pathways, enhanced neurogenesis, and the regulation of glial inflammation. Conclusion This paper underscores the positive impact of enriched environmental interventions on autism through a review of existing literature. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the underlying brain mechanisms associated with this intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Li
- School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jing Lu
- School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Sports Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wenxin Gui
- School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Weijie Xie
- School of Mental Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, Shanghai Pudong New Area Mental Health Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Assiri MA, Albekairi TH, Ansari MA, Nadeem A, Attia SM, Bakheet SA, Shahid M, Aldossari AA, Almutairi MM, Almanaa TN, Alwetaid MY, Ahmad SF. The Exposure to Lead (Pb) Exacerbates Immunological Abnormalities in BTBR T + Itpr 3tf/J Mice through the Regulation of Signaling Pathways Relevant to T Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16218. [PMID: 38003408 PMCID: PMC10671427 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common neurodevelopmental illness characterized by abnormal social interactions, communication difficulties, and repetitive and limited behaviors or interests. The BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mice have been used extensively to research the ASD-like phenotype. Lead (Pb) is a hazardous chemical linked to organ damage in the human body. It is regarded as one of the most common metal exposure sources and has been connected to the development of neurological abnormalities. We used flow cytometry to investigate the molecular mechanism behind the effect of Pb exposure on subsets of CD4+ T cells in the spleen expressing IFN-γ, T-bet, STAT1, STAT4, IL-9, IRF4, IL-22, AhR, IL-10, and Foxp3. Furthermore, using RT-PCR, we studied the effect of Pb on the expression of numerous genes in brain tissue, including IFN-γ, T-bet, STAT1, STAT4, IL-9, IRF4, IL-22, AhR, IL-10, and Foxp3. Pb exposure increased the population of CD4+IFN-γ+, CD4+T-bet+, CD4+STAT1+, CD4+STAT4+, CD4+IL-9+, CD4+IRF4+, CD4+IL-22+, and CD4+AhR+ cells in BTBR mice. In contrast, CD4+IL-10+ and CD4+Foxp3+ cells were downregulated in the spleen cells of Pb-exposed BTBR mice compared to those treated with vehicle. Furthermore, Pb exposure led to a significant increase in IFN-γ, T-bet, STAT1, STAT4, IL-9, IRF4, IL-22, and AhR mRNA expression in BTBR mice. In contrast, IL-10 and Foxp3 mRNA expression was significantly lower in those treated with the vehicle. Our data suggest that Pb exposure exacerbates immunological dysfunctions associated with ASD. These data imply that Pb exposure may increase the risk of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A. Assiri
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia (S.A.B.)
| | - Thamer H. Albekairi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia (S.A.B.)
| | - Mushtaq A. Ansari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia (S.A.B.)
| | - Ahmed Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia (S.A.B.)
| | - Sabry M. Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia (S.A.B.)
| | - Saleh A. Bakheet
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia (S.A.B.)
| | - Mudassar Shahid
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah A. Aldossari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia (S.A.B.)
| | - Mohammed M. Almutairi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia (S.A.B.)
| | - Taghreed N. Almanaa
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia (M.Y.A.)
| | - Mohammad Y. Alwetaid
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia (M.Y.A.)
| | - Sheikh F. Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia (S.A.B.)
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de Lima MR, Campbell DCDP, da Cunha-Madeira MR, Bomfim BCM, de Paula Ayres-Silva J. Animal Welfare in Radiation Research: The Importance of Animal Monitoring System. Vet Sci 2023; 10:651. [PMID: 37999474 PMCID: PMC10674294 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10110651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Long-term research into radiation exposure significantly expanded following World War II, driven by the increasing number of individuals falling ill after the detonation of two atomic bombs in Japan. Consequently, researchers intensified their efforts to investigate radiation's effects using animal models and to study disease models that emerged post-catastrophe. As a result, several parameters have been established as essential in these models, encompassing radiation doses, regimens involving single or multiple irradiations, the injection site for transplantation, and the quantity of cells to be injected. Nonetheless, researchers have observed numerous side effects in irradiated animals, prompting the development of scoring systems to monitor these animals' well-being. The aim of this review is to delve into the historical context of using animals in radiation research and explore the ethical considerations related to animal welfare, which has become an increasingly relevant topic in recent years. These concerns have prompted research groups to adopt measures aimed at reducing animal suffering. Consequently, for animal welfare, the implementation of a scoring system for clinical and behavioral monitoring is essential. This represents one of the primary challenges and hurdles in radiation studies. It is concluded that implementing standardized criteria across all institutions is aimed at ensuring result reproducibility and fostering collaboration within the scientific community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique Ribeiro de Lima
- Center for Animal Experimentation, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro 21041-250, Brazil; (M.R.d.L.)
| | - Daiani Cotrim de Paiva Campbell
- Center for Animal Experimentation, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro 21041-250, Brazil; (M.R.d.L.)
| | | | - Barbara Cristina Marcollino Bomfim
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Health, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro 21041-250, Brazil
| | - Jackline de Paula Ayres-Silva
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Health, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro 21041-250, Brazil
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Wang L, Wang B, Wu C, Wang J, Sun M. Autism Spectrum Disorder: Neurodevelopmental Risk Factors, Biological Mechanism, and Precision Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24031819. [PMID: 36768153 PMCID: PMC9915249 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous, behaviorally defined neurodevelopmental disorder. Over the past two decades, the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders has progressively increased, however, no clear diagnostic markers and specifically targeted medications for autism have emerged. As a result, neurobehavioral abnormalities, neurobiological alterations in ASD, and the development of novel ASD pharmacological therapy necessitate multidisciplinary collaboration. In this review, we discuss the development of multiple animal models of ASD to contribute to the disease mechanisms of ASD, as well as new studies from multiple disciplines to assess the behavioral pathology of ASD. In addition, we summarize and highlight the mechanistic advances regarding gene transcription, RNA and non-coding RNA translation, abnormal synaptic signaling pathways, epigenetic post-translational modifications, brain-gut axis, immune inflammation and neural loop abnormalities in autism to provide a theoretical basis for the next step of precision therapy. Furthermore, we review existing autism therapy tactics and limits and present challenges and opportunities for translating multidisciplinary knowledge of ASD into clinical practice.
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Mutovina A, Ayriyants K, Mezhlumyan E, Ryabushkina Y, Litvinova E, Bondar N, Khantakova J, Reshetnikov V. Unique Features of the Immune Response in BTBR Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:15577. [PMID: 36555219 PMCID: PMC9779573 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation plays a considerable role in the pathogenesis of many diseases, including neurodegenerative and psychiatric ones. Elucidation of the specific features of an immune response in various model organisms, and studying the relation of these features with the behavioral phenotype, can improve the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of many psychopathologies. In this work, we focused on BTBR mice, which have a pronounced autism-like behavioral phenotype, elevated levels of oxidative-stress markers, an abnormal immune response, several structural aberrations in the brain, and other unique traits. Although some studies have already shown an abnormal immune response in BTBR mice, the existing literature data are still fragmentary. Here, we used inflammation induced by low-dose lipopolysaccharide, polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid, or their combinations, in mice of strains BTBR T+Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) and C57BL6/J. Peripheral inflammation was assessed by means of a complete blood count, lymphocyte immunophenotyping, and expression levels of cytokines in the spleen. Neuroinflammation was evaluated in the hypothalamus and prefrontal cortex by analysis of mRNA levels of proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor, Tnf), (interleukin-1 beta, Il-1β), and (interleukin-6, Il-6) and of markers of microglia activation (allograft inflammatory factor 1, Aif1) and astroglia activation (glial fibrillary acidic protein, Gfap). We found that in both strains of mice, the most severe inflammatory response was caused by the administration of polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid, whereas the combined administration of the two toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists did not enhance this response. Nonetheless, BTBR mice showed a more pronounced response to low-dose lipopolysaccharide, an altered lymphocytosis ratio due to an increase in the number of CD4+ lymphocytes, and high expression of markers of activated microglia (Aif1) and astroglia (Gfap) in various brain regions as compared to C57BL6/J mice. Thus, in addition to research into mechanisms of autism-like behavior, BTBR mice can be used as a model of TLR3/TLR4-induced neuroinflammation and a unique model for finding and evaluating the effectiveness of various TLR antagonists aimed at reducing neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Mutovina
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Kseniya Ayriyants
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Eva Mezhlumyan
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Yulia Ryabushkina
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Ekaterina Litvinova
- Physical Engineering Faculty, Novosibirsk State Technical University, Prospekt Karl Marx, 20, 630073 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Natalia Bondar
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
- Department of Natural Sciences, Novosibirsk State University, Pirogova Street 2, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Julia Khantakova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Vasiliy Reshetnikov
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
- Department of Biotechnology, Sirius University of Science and Technology, 1 Olympic Avenue, 354340 Sochi, Russia
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A common epigenetic mechanism across different cellular origins underlies systemic immune dysregulation in an idiopathic autism mouse model. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:3343-3354. [PMID: 35491410 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01566-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Immune dysregulation plays a key role in the pathogenesis of autism. Changes occurring at the systemic level, from brain inflammation to disturbed innate/adaptive immune in the periphery, are frequently observed in patients with autism; however, the intrinsic mechanisms behind them remain elusive. We hypothesize a common etiology may lie in progenitors of different types underlying widespread immune dysregulation. By single-cell RNA sequencing (sc-RNA seq), we trace the developmental origins of immune dysregulation in a mouse model of idiopathic autism. It is found that both in aorta-gonad-mesonephros (AGM) and yolk sac (YS) progenitors, the dysregulation of HDAC1-mediated epigenetic machinery alters definitive hematopoiesis during embryogenesis and downregulates the expression of the AP-1 complex for microglia development. Subsequently, these changes result in the dysregulation of the immune system, leading to gut dysbiosis and hyperactive microglia in the brain. We further confirm that dysregulated immune profiles are associated with specific microbiota composition, which may serve as a biomarker to identify autism of immune-dysregulated subtypes. Our findings elucidate a shared mechanism for the origin of immune dysregulation from the brain to the gut in autism and provide new insight to dissecting the heterogeneity of autism, as well as the therapeutic potential of targeting immune-dysregulated autism subtypes.
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Almutairi MM, Nadeem A, Ansari MA, Bakheet SA, Attia SM, Albekairi TH, Alhosaini K, Algahtani M, Alsaad AMS, Al-Mazroua HA, Ahmad SF. Lead (Pb) exposure exacerbates behavioral and immune abnormalities by upregulating Th17 and NF-κB-related signaling in BTBR T + Itpr3 tf/J autistic mouse model. Neurotoxicology 2022; 91:340-348. [PMID: 35760230 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2022.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder that are characterized by abnormal social interaction impairments in communication and repetitive and restricted activities or interests. Even though the exact etiology of ASD remains unknown. Lead (Pb) is a toxin known to harm many organs in the body, it is one of the most ubiquitous metal exposures which is associated with neurological deficits. Previous studies have shown that the exposure to Pb may play a role in ASD. BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mouse model is commonly used as a preclinical model for ASD. In this study, we investigated the effects of Pb exposure on sociability, self-grooming and marble burying behaviors tests in BTBR mice. We further examined the effects of Pb on IL-17A- RORγT-, STAT3-, NF-κB p65-, iNOS-, TLR-2- and TLR-4-producing CD45+ cells in spleen using flow cytometry. We also explored the effects of Pb on IL-17A, RORγT, STAT3, NF-κB p65, and TLR-2 mRNA expression in the brain tissue using RT-PCR analysis. Our results demonstrated that Pb exposure substantially increased repetitive behavior, marble burying and decrease social interactions in BTBR mice. In addition, in spleen cells, Pb exposure exaggerated CD45+IL-17A+, CD45+RORγT+, CD45+STAT3+, CD45+NF-κB p65+, CD45+iNOS+, CD45+TLR-2+ and CD45+TLR-4+ in BTBR mice. We also found that Pb significantly increased IL-17A, RORγT, STAT3, NF-κB p65, and TLR-2 mRNA in the brain tissue. Therefore, Pb exposure exacerbates behavioral and neuroimmune function in BTBR mice, suggesting a potentially strong role for Pb in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mashal M Almutairi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh-11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh-11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mushtaq A Ansari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh-11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A Bakheet
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh-11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabry M Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh-11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Thamer H Albekairi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh-11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khaled Alhosaini
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh-11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Algahtani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh-11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz M S Alsaad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh-11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haneen A Al-Mazroua
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh-11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sheikh F Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh-11451, Saudi Arabia.
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11
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Methylmercury chloride exposure exacerbates existing neurobehavioral and immune dysfunctions in the BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J mouse model of autism. Immunol Lett 2022; 244:19-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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12
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Interspecific differences in sociability, social novelty preference, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors between Brandt's voles and C57BL/6J mice. Behav Processes 2022; 197:104624. [DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2022.104624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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13
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Wang X, Gao C, Zhang Y, Hu S, Qiao Y, Zhao Z, Gou L, Song J, Wang Q. Overexpression of mGluR7 in the Prefrontal Cortex Attenuates Autistic Behaviors in Mice. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:689611. [PMID: 34335187 PMCID: PMC8319395 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.689611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with a range of abnormalities pertaining to socialization, communication, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests. Owing to its complexity, the etiology of ASD remains incompletely understood. The presynaptic G protein-coupled glutamate receptor metabotropic glutamate receptor 7 (mGluR7) is known to be essential for synaptic transmission and is also tightly linked with ASD incidence. Herein, we report that prefrontal cortex (PFC) mGluR7 protein levels were decreased in C57BL/6J mice exposed to valproic acid (VPA) and BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J mice. The overexpression of mGluR7 in the PFC of these mice using a lentiviral vector was sufficient to reduce the severity of ASD-like behavioral patterns such that animals exhibited decreases in abnormal social interactions and communication, anxiety-like, and stereotyped/repetitive behaviors. Intriguingly, patch-clamp recordings revealed that the overexpression of mGluR7 suppressed neuronal excitability by inhibiting action potential discharge frequencies, together with enhanced action potential threshold and increased rheobase. These data offer a scientific basis for the additional study of mGluR7 as a promising therapeutic target in ASD and related neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaona Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical College, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Chao Gao
- Department of Rehabilitation, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yaodong Zhang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical College, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Shunan Hu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical College, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yidan Qiao
- Department of Pathology, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhengqin Zhao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical College, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Lingshan Gou
- Center for Genetic Medicine, Xuzhou Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jijun Song
- Henan Infectious Disease Hospital, The Sixth People's Hospital of Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou, China
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14
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Ciernia AV, Link VM, Careaga M, LaSalle JM, Ashwood P. Genetic variants drive altered epigenetic regulation of endotoxin response in BTBR macrophages. Brain Behav Immun 2020; 89:20-31. [PMID: 32454135 PMCID: PMC7572655 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2020.05.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The BTBR T+Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mouse has been used as a complex genetic model of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). While the specific mechanisms underlying BTBR behavioral phenotypes are poorly understood, prior studies have implicated profound differences in innate immune system control of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Innate immune activation and elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines are also detected in blood of children with ASD. In this study, we examined how underlying BTBR genetic variants correspond to strain-specific changes in chromatin accessibility, resulting in a pro-inflammatory response specifically in BTBR bone marrow derived macrophages (BMDM). In response to repeated lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatments, C57BL/6J (C57) BMDM exhibited intact endotoxin tolerance. In contrast, BTBR BMDM exhibited hyper-responsive expression of genes that were normally tolerized in C57. This failure in formation of endotoxin tolerance in BTBR was mirrored at the level of chromatin accessibility. Using ATAC-seq, we specifically identified promoter and enhancer regions with strain-specific differential chromatin accessibility both at baseline and in response to LPS. Regions with strain-specific differences in chromatin accessibility were significantly enriched for BTBR genetic variants, such that an average of 22% of the differential chromatin regions had at least one variant. Together, these results demonstrate that BTBR genetic variants contribute to altered chromatin responsiveness to endotoxin challenge resulting in hyper-responsive innate immunity in BTBR. These findings provide evidence for an interaction between complex genetic variants and differential epigenetic regulation of innate immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Vogel Ciernia
- Department Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T2A1, Canada.
| | - Verena M Link
- Metaorganism Immunity Section, Laboratory of Immune System Biology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Milo Careaga
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, MIND Institute, Genome Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Janine M LaSalle
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, MIND Institute, Genome Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Paul Ashwood
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, MIND Institute, Genome Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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15
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Uddin MN, Yao Y, Manley K, Lawrence DA. Development, phenotypes of immune cells in BTBR T +Itpr3 tf/J mice. Cell Immunol 2020; 358:104223. [PMID: 33137646 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2020.104223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that is characterized by a lack of social interaction, decreased verbal and non-verbal communication skills, and stereotyped repetitive behavior. There is strong evidence that a dysregulated immune response may influence neurodevelopment and thus may have a role in the development of ASD. This study focuses on the characterization of immune cell phenotypes in the BTBR T+Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mouse strain, a widely used animal model for autism research. Our study demonstrated that BTBR mice have a different immune profile compared to C57BL/6J (B6) mice, which do not display ASD-like characteristics. Thymic cells of BTBR mice have more single positive (SP) CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and fewer double positive (DP) T cells than B6 mice. The development of T cells is increased in BTBR mice with regard to the double negative (DN4) population being much higher in BTBR mice. The spleens and blood of BTBR mice also have more T helper type 1 (Th1), T helper type 2 (Th2) and T regulatory (Treg) cells compared to B6 mice. Aire expression in the thymus and spleen of BTBR mice compared to B6 mice was equivalent and lower, respectively. The mature natural killer (NK) innate immune cell population in blood and spleen is lower in BTBR than B6 mice; NK cell development is blocked prior to the double positive (DN) CD11b+CD27+ stage in BTBR mice. Since BTBR mice have more CD4+ T cells and elevated numbers of Th1 (T-bet+) and Th2 (GATA3+) cells, their low defense against pathogen may be explained by the lower number of NK cells and the significantly lower Th1 to Th2 ratio. The elevated number of plasma cells and autoantibodies of BTBR mice may be due to less presence and function of splenic AIRE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Nizam Uddin
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, United States
| | - Yunyi Yao
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, United States
| | - Kevin Manley
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, United States
| | - David A Lawrence
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, United States; University at Albany School of Public Health, Rensselaer, NY, United States.
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16
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Ahmad SF, Ansari MA, Nadeem A, Bakheet SA, Alqahtani F, Alhoshani AR, Alasmari F, Alsaleh NB, Attia SM. 5-aminoisoquinolinone attenuates social behavior deficits and immune abnormalities in the BTBR T + Itpr3 tf/J mouse model for autism. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2020; 189:172859. [PMID: 31982447 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2020.172859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is diagnosed by core symptoms including impaired social communication and the presence of repetitive and stereotypical behaviors. There is also evidence for immune dysfunction in individuals with ASD, but it is a disease that is still insufficiently controlled by current treatment strategies. The use of 5-aminoisoquinolinone (5-AIQ) ameliorates several immune-mediated symptoms including rheumatoid arthritis and colitis, and has neuroprotective properties; however, its role in ASD is not yet characterized. In this study, we investigated the effect of 5-AIQ on sociability tests, self-grooming, marble burying, and locomotor activities in BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mice, which serve as an ASD animal model. We further investigated the possible molecular mechanism of 5-AIQ administration on CXCR4-, CXCR6-, IFN-γ-, IL-22-, NOS2-, STAT1-, T-bet-, and RORγT-producing CD3+ T cells isolated from the spleens of treated mice. We also explored its effects on mRNA expression in brain tissue. Our results showed that in BTBR mice, 5-AIQ treatment significantly prevented self-grooming and marble burying behaviors and enhanced social interactions without any adverse effects on locomotor activity/anxiety level. Additionally, 5-AIQ treatment substantially decreased CXCR4-, CXCR6-, IFN-γ-, IL-22-, NOS2-, STAT1-, T-bet-, and RORγT-producing CD3+ T cells in the spleen. Furthermore, 5-AIQ treatment decreased CXCR4, IFN-γ, IL-22, STAT1, and RORγT mRNA expression levels in brain tissue. Our findings demonstrated that 5-AIQ improved behavioral and immune abnormalities associated with ASD, which supports the hypothesis that 5-AIQ has important therapeutic potential for the treatment of behavioral and neuroimmune dysfunctions in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheikh F Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mushtaq A Ansari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A Bakheet
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faleh Alqahtani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali R Alhoshani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fawaz Alasmari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nasser B Alsaleh
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabry M Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
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17
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Queen NJ, Boardman AA, Patel RS, Siu JJ, Mo X, Cao L. Environmental enrichment improves metabolic and behavioral health in the BTBR mouse model of autism. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2020; 111:104476. [PMID: 31648110 PMCID: PMC6914218 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2019.104476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BTBR T + Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mice are an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)-like model that exhibit behavioral and physiological deficits similar to those observed in patients with ASD. While behavioral therapy is a first line of treatment in ASD patients, comparable non-pharmacological treatments are less explored in murine models. Here, we administer a bio-behavioral intervention for BTBR mice by way of environmental enrichment (EE) - an experimental housing paradigm previously shown to improve systemic metabolism, learning/memory, anxious behavior, neurogenesis, locomotion, and immunocompetence in C57BL/6 mice. Juvenile BTBR mice were randomized to standard or EE housing and were subjected to metabolic and behavioral assessments up to 17 weeks. Following EE exposure, we report an EE-induced metabolic and behavioral phenotype. Male BTBR mice responded metabolically to EE, displaying reduced adiposity, increased lean mass, improved glycemic control, and decreased circulating leptin. The gene expressions of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf) and its receptor (Ntrk2/TrkB) were upregulated in several brain areas in EE-BTBR males. EE-BTBR females showed modest reduction of adiposity and no changes in glycemic control, circulating leptin, or Bdnf/Ntrk2 gene expression. With regard to behavior, EE resulted in decreased anxiety, and increased social affiliation. Together, these results suggest that EE improves metabolic and behavioral health in BTBR mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Queen
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Amber A Boardman
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Ripal S Patel
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jason J Siu
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Xiaokui Mo
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Lei Cao
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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18
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Liu YW, Zhao L, Zhou M, Wang H, Yang N, Dai SS. Transplantation with mGluR5 deficiency bone marrow displays antidepressant-like effect in C57BL/6J mice. Brain Behav Immun 2019; 79:114-124. [PMID: 30682501 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2019.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Antidepressant-like effects of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) have been verified by specific antagonists or whole body knock-out (KO) mice. Previous experiments indicate that blocking mGluR5 exerts antidepressant-like effects through neuronal mechanisms, like modulating NMDA receptor activity or 5-HT system. Here we found that transplanting bone marrow from mGluR5 KO mice to WT mice could also show antidepressant-like effects, which were confirmed by sucrose preference test and tail suspension test. Furthermore, mGluR5 deficiency dramatically inhibits cytokines release from bone marrow cells, such as IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6, alleviating proinflammatory responses in LPS-induced depression model. In addition, inhibited cytokines could decrease the activation of brain endothelial cells in ERK-dependent manner. These data provide the evidence that blocking mGluR5 could improve depression through inhibiting peripheral immune responses, confirming the causal relationship between peripheral immune phenotype and brain behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang-Wuyue Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, PR China
| | - Li Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, PR China
| | - Mi Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, PR China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400042, PR China
| | - Nan Yang
- Molecular Biology Center, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn, and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400042, PR China
| | - Shuang-Shuang Dai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400038, PR China; Molecular Biology Center, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn, and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400042, PR China.
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19
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Sex-Dependent Effects of Perinatal Inflammation on the Brain: Implication for Neuro-Psychiatric Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20092270. [PMID: 31071949 PMCID: PMC6539135 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals born preterm have higher rates of neurodevelopmental disorders such as schizophrenia, autistic spectrum, and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorders. These conditions are often sexually dimorphic and with different developmental trajectories. The etiology is likely multifactorial, however, infections both during pregnancy and in childhood have emerged as important risk factors. The association between sex- and age-dependent vulnerability to neuropsychiatric disorders has been suggested to relate to immune activation in the brain, including complex interactions between sex hormones, brain transcriptome, activation of glia cells, and cytokine production. Here, we will review sex-dependent effects on brain development, including glia cells, both under normal physiological conditions and following perinatal inflammation. Emphasis will be given to sex-dependent effects on brain regions which play a role in neuropsychiatric disorders and inflammatory reactions that may underlie early-life programming of neurobehavioral disturbances later in life.
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20
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Yang Z, Zhao Y, Li Q, Shao Y, Yu X, Cong W, Jia X, Qu W, Cheng L, Xue P, Zhou Z, He M, Zhang Y. Developmental exposure to mercury chloride impairs social behavior in male offspring dependent on genetic background and maternal autoimmune environment. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2019; 370:1-13. [PMID: 30862457 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2019.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Revised: 02/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
To date, the connection between inorganic mercury (Hg) and social behavior remains incompletely understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of maternal autoimmunity by inorganic Hg (Hg2+) exposure on social behavior of offspring. Wild-type (WT) and immunoglobulin deficient (Ig-/-) B10.S dams fertilized by male WT B10.S or SJL mice were treated with 50 μM Hg chloride (HgCl2). Non-pregnant female WT B10.S mice were used to investigate factors regulating HgCl2-induced autoimmunity to brain. HgCl2 selectively impaired social behavior in male offspring, but not female offspring from WT B10.S dams × male SJL, in that only male offspring displayed reduced time distribution with the stranger mouse, decreased sniffing to the stranger mouse and increased self-grooming. HgCl2 did not disrupt social behavior of male or female offspring from WT B10.S dams × male WT B10.S or Ig-/- B10.S dams × male SJL. The offspring from WT and Ig-/- B10.S dams × male SJL had equivalent autoimmunity to brain antigens during HgCl2 exposure, indicating that maternal, but not offspring-derived anti-brain antibodies (Ab) impaired social behavior of the offspring. Non-pregnant WT B10.S mice treated with HgCl2 had increased anti-brain Ab dependent on increase in CD4 T cell activation and IFNγ signaling to macrophages. IFNγ interaction with macrophages drove B cells and plasma cells to produce IgG. Therefore, HgCl2 selectively impaired social behavior in males with certain genetic background via maternally derived anti-brain Ab production, thus providing a novel insight into our current understanding of Hg toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengli Yang
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, MOE, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yifan Zhao
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, MOE, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Qian Li
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, MOE, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yiming Shao
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, MOE, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xinchun Yu
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, MOE, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wei Cong
- Institutes of Brain Science, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiaodong Jia
- Shanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai 200336, China
| | - Weidong Qu
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, MOE, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Longzhen Cheng
- Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Peng Xue
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, MOE, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhijun Zhou
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, MOE, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Miao He
- Institutes of Brain Science, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yubin Zhang
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, MOE, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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21
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Ornoy A, Weinstein-Fudim L, Ergaz Z. Prevention or Amelioration of Autism-Like Symptoms in Animal Models: Will it Bring Us Closer to Treating Human ASD? Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20051074. [PMID: 30832249 PMCID: PMC6429371 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20051074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the first animal model of valproic acid (VPA) induced autistic-like behavior, many genetic and non-genetic experimental animal models for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have been described. The more common non-genetic animal models induce ASD in rats and mice by infection/inflammation or the prenatal or early postnatal administration of VPA. Through the establishment of these models, attempts have been made to ameliorate or even prevent ASD-like symptoms. Some of the genetic models have been successfully treated by genetic manipulations or the manipulation of neurotransmission. Different antioxidants have been used (i.e., astaxanthin, green tea, piperine) to reduce brain oxidative stress in VPA-induced ASD models. Agents affecting brain neurotransmitters (donepezil, agmatine, agomelatine, memantine, oxytocin) also successfully reduced ASD-like symptoms. However, complete prevention of the development of symptoms was achieved only rarely. In our recent study, we treated mouse offspring exposed on postnatal day four to VPA with S-adenosine methionine (SAM) for three days, and prevented ASD-like behavior, brain oxidative stress, and the changes in gene expression induced by VPA. In this review, we describe, in addition to our data, the existing literature on the prevention/amelioration of ASD-like symptoms. We also discuss the possible mechanisms underlying some of these phenomena. Finally, we describe some of the clinical trials in children with ASD that were carried out as a result of data from animal studies, especially those with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Asher Ornoy
- Laboratory of Teratology, Department of Medical Neurobiology, Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel.
| | - Liza Weinstein-Fudim
- Laboratory of Teratology, Department of Medical Neurobiology, Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel.
| | - Zivanit Ergaz
- Laboratory of Teratology, Department of Medical Neurobiology, Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel.
- Neonatology Department, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel.
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22
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Nadeem A, Ahmad SF, El-Sherbeeny AM, Al-Harbi NO, Bakheet SA, Attia SM. Systemic inflammation in asocial BTBR T + tf/J mice predisposes them to increased psoriatic inflammation. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 83:8-17. [PMID: 29287831 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Revised: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Autistic Spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurobehavioral disorder characterized by defects in communication skills leading to restricted sociability. ASD has immense dysregulation in immune responses which is thought to affect neuronal system and thus behavior. ASD patients and BTBR T+ tf/J (BTBR) autistic mice have increased systemic inflammation due to dysfunction in innate and adaptive immune responses. Recent studies suggest that ASD patients are associated with several co-morbid autoimmune disorders including psoriasis. However underlying mechanisms for this phenomenon have not been explored. In this study, we used imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriatic inflammation in social C57BL/6 (C57) mice and asocial BTBR mice to investigate whether systemic inflammation in BTBR is associated with increased susceptibility to psoriatic inflammation. Our data shows that BTBR mice have increased expression of TLR7/IL-6/IL-23 in systemic DCs but not in skin as compared to C57 mice at baseline. This leads to much greater psoriatic inflammation in BTBR mice upon IMQ application than C57 mice. Consequently, BTBR mice also have higher Th17 related immune responses in the skin and systemic compartment. Overall our study suggests that systemic innate (TLR7/IL-23/IL-6 in DCs) and adaptive (Th17 related signaling) immune responses are heightened in BTBR mice at baseline which predisposes them for greater psoriatic inflammation than C57 mice upon IMQ application. This could be one of the reasons for increased psoriatic inflammation in patients with ASD. Therapies that aim to decrease immune activation may not only benefit ASD-associated neurobehavioral abnormalities but also comorbid disorders such as psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Sheikh F Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ahmed M El-Sherbeeny
- Industrial Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naif O Al-Harbi
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A Bakheet
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabry M Attia
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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23
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Beery AK, Christensen JD, Lee NS, Blandino KL. Specificity in Sociality: Mice and Prairie Voles Exhibit Different Patterns of Peer Affiliation. Front Behav Neurosci 2018; 12:50. [PMID: 29615879 PMCID: PMC5868120 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Social behavior is often described as a unified concept, but highly social (group-living) species exhibit distinct social structures and may make different social decisions. Prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster) are socially monogamous rodents that often reside in extended family groups, and exhibit robust preferences for familiar social partners (same- and opposite-sex) during extended choice tests, although short-term preferences are not known. Mice (Mus musculus) are gregarious and colonial, but in brief laboratory tests of social preference they typically prefer social novelty. This preference for novel vs. familiar peers may represent a species-specific difference in social decision-making between mice and prairie voles. However, the tests used to measure preferences in each species differ markedly in duration and degree of contact, such that the behaviors cannot be directly compared. We assessed whether social preferences for novelty or familiarity differed between mice and prairie voles of both sexes when assessed with matching protocols: the sociability/social preference test (SPT) typically used in mice (short, no direct contact), and the partner preference test (PPT) used in voles (long, direct contact). A subset of voles also underwent a PPT using barriers (long, no direct contact). In the short SPT, behavior did not differ between species. In the longer test, pronounced partner preferences emerged in prairie voles, but mice exhibited no social preferences and rarely huddled. No sex differences were evident in either test. Direct physical contact was required for partner preferences in huddling time in voles, but preference for the partner chamber was evident with or without contact. Both prairie voles and mice are social, but they exhibit important differences in the specificity and extent of their social behavior. While mice are often used to study social approach and other behaviors, voles are a more suitable species for the study of selective social relationships. Consideration of these differences will be important for studies examining the neural mechanisms supporting different kinds of peer social behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annaliese K Beery
- Department of Psychology and Biology, Program in Neuroscience, Smith College, Northampton, MA, United States.,Neuroscience and Behavior Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Jennifer D Christensen
- Neuroscience and Behavior Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Nicole S Lee
- Neuroscience and Behavior Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Katrina L Blandino
- Department of Psychology and Biology, Program in Neuroscience, Smith College, Northampton, MA, United States
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24
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Cataldo I, Azhari A, Esposito G. A Review of Oxytocin and Arginine-Vasopressin Receptors and Their Modulation of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:27. [PMID: 29487501 PMCID: PMC5816822 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) and arginine-vasopressin (AVP) play a key regulatory part in social and affiliative behaviors; two aspects highly compromised in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Furthermore, variants in the adjacent oxytocin-vasopressin gene regions have been found to be associated with ASD diagnosis and endophenotypes. This review focuses mainly on common OXTr single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), AVPR1a microsatellites and AVPR1b polymorphisms in relation to the development of autism. Although these genes did not surface in genome-wide association studies, evidence supports the hypothesis that these receptors and their polymorphisms are widely involved in the regulation of social behavior, and in modulating neural and physiological pathways contributing to the etiology of ASD. With a specific focus on variants considered to be among the most prevalent in the development of ASD, these issues will be discussed in-depth and suggestions to approach inconsistencies in the present literature will be provided. Translational implications and future directions are deliberated from a short-term and a forward-looking perspective. While the scientific community has made significant progress in enhancing our understanding of ASD, more research is required for the ontology of this disorder to be fully elucidated. By supplementing information related to genetics, highlighting the differences across male and female sexes, this review provides a wider view of the current state of knowledge of OXTr and AVPr mechanisms of functioning, eventually addressing future research in the identification of further risk factors, to build new strategies for early interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Cataldo
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy.,Mobile and Social Computing Lab, Fondazione Bruno Kessler, Trento, Italy
| | - Atiqah Azhari
- Division of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gianluca Esposito
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy.,Division of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
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25
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The BTBR Mouse, Sociability, and Reduced Glutamate Release: A Role for Endogenous Dynorphin? Neurochem Res 2017; 42:2435-2436. [PMID: 28303500 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-017-2231-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Revised: 03/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/10/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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26
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Meyza KZ, Blanchard DC. The BTBR mouse model of idiopathic autism - Current view on mechanisms. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2017; 76:99-110. [PMID: 28167097 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.12.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Revised: 12/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the most commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental disorder, with current estimates of more than 1% of affected children across nations. The patients form a highly heterogeneous group with only the behavioral phenotype in common. The genetic heterogeneity is reflected in a plethora of animal models representing multiple mutations found in families of affected children. Despite many years of scientific effort, for the majority of cases the genetic cause remains elusive. It is therefore crucial to include well-validated models of idiopathic autism in studies searching for potential therapeutic agents. One of these models is the BTBR T+Itpr3tf/J mouse. The current review summarizes data gathered in recent research on potential molecular mechanisms responsible for the autism-like behavioral phenotype of this strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Z Meyza
- Laboratory of Emotions' Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, 3 Pasteur Street, Warsaw, 02-093, Poland.
| | - D C Blanchard
- Department of Psychology, University of Hawaii at Manoa,1993 East-West Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
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27
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The BTBR mouse model, cholinergic transmission, and environmental exposure to nitrous oxide. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2017; 234:319-321. [PMID: 27722774 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-016-4456-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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