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Oishi R, Takeda I, Ode Y, Okada Y, Kato D, Nakashima H, Imagama S, Wake H. Neuromodulation with transcranial direct current stimulation contributes to motor function recovery via microglia in spinal cord injury. Sci Rep 2024; 14:18031. [PMID: 39098975 PMCID: PMC11298548 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-69127-7] [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: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is damage or trauma to the spinal cord, which often results in loss of function, sensation, or mobility below the injury site. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive and affordable brain stimulation technique used to modulate neuronal circuits, which changes the morphology and activity of microglia in the cerebral cortex. However, whether similar morphological changes can be observed in the spinal cord remains unclear. Therefore, we evaluated neuronal population activity in layer 5 (L5) of M1 following SCI and investigated whether changes in the activities of L5 neurons affect microglia-axon interactions using C57BL/6J mice. We discovered that L5 of the primary motor cortex (corticospinal neurons) exhibited reduced synchronized activity after SCI that correlates with microglial morphology, which was recovered using tDCS. This indicates that tDCS promotes changes in the morphological properties and recovery of microglia after SCI. Combining immunotherapy with tDCS may be effective in treating SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryotaro Oishi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
- Department of Anatomy and Molecular Cell Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Ikuko Takeda
- Department of Anatomy and Molecular Cell Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
- Division of Multicellular Circuit Dynamics, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Myodaiji, Okazaki, 444-8585, Japan
| | - Yukihito Ode
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
- Department of Anatomy and Molecular Cell Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yuya Okada
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
- Department of Anatomy and Molecular Cell Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kato
- Department of Anatomy and Molecular Cell Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Nakashima
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Shiro Imagama
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Wake
- Department of Anatomy and Molecular Cell Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan.
- Division of Multicellular Circuit Dynamics, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Myodaiji, Okazaki, 444-8585, Japan.
- Center for Optical Scattering Image Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan.
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Graduate University for Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI, Shonan, Hayama, Kanagawa, 240-0193, Japan.
- Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology, Japan Science and Technology Agency, 4-1-8 Honcho, Kawaguchi, Saitama, 332-0012, Japan.
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Delucenay-Clarke R, Niérat MC, Frugière A, Similowski T, Cayetanot F, Bodineau L. Direct current stimulation as a non-invasive therapeutic alternative for treating autonomic or non-autonomic neurological disorders affecting breathing. Clin Auton Res 2024; 34:395-411. [PMID: 39133345 DOI: 10.1007/s10286-024-01055-y] [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: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
Direct current stimulation (DCS) is a non-invasive approach to stimulate the nervous system that is now considered a powerful tool for treating neurological diseases such as those affecting cognitive or locomotor functions. DCS, as applied clinically today, is an approach built on early uses in antiquity and knowledge gained over time. Its current use makes use of specific devices and takes into account knowledge of the mechanisms by which this approach modulates functioning of the nervous system at the cellular level. Over the last 20 years, although there are few studies, it has been shown that DCS can also modulate the breathing autonomic function. In this narrative review, after briefly providing the historical perspective and describing the principles and the main cellular and molecular effects, we summarize the currently available data regarding the modulation of ventilation, and propose that DCS could be used to treat autonomic or non-autonomic neurological disorders affecting breathing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Delucenay-Clarke
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, UMR_S1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Marie-Cécile Niérat
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, UMR_S1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Alain Frugière
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, UMR_S1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Similowski
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, UMR_S1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Florence Cayetanot
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, UMR_S1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Laurence Bodineau
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, UMR_S1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, 75005, Paris, France.
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Markowska A, Tarnacka B. Molecular Changes in the Ischemic Brain as Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation Targets-TMS and tDCS Mechanisms, Therapeutic Challenges, and Combination Therapies. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1560. [PMID: 39062133 PMCID: PMC11274560 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071560] [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: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability. As the currently used neurorehabilitation methods present several limitations, the ongoing research focuses on the use of non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). NIBS methods were demonstrated to modulate neural excitability and improve motor and cognitive functioning in neurodegenerative diseases. However, their mechanisms of action are not fully elucidated, and the clinical outcomes are often unpredictable. This review explores the molecular processes underlying the effects of TMS and tDCS in stroke rehabilitation, including oxidative stress reduction, cell death, stimulation of neurogenesis, and neuroprotective phenotypes of glial cells. A highlight is put on the newly emerging therapeutic targets, such as ferroptotic and pyroptotic pathways. In addition, the issue of interindividual variability is discussed, and the role of neuroimaging techniques is investigated to get closer to personalized medicine. Furthermore, translational challenges of NIBS techniques are analyzed, and limitations of current clinical trials are investigated. The paper concludes with suggestions for further neurorehabilitation stroke treatment, putting the focus on combination and personalized therapies, as well as novel protocols of brain stimulation techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Markowska
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Warsaw Medical University, Spartańska 1, 02-637 Warsaw, Poland;
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Carrier M, Hui CW, Watters V, Šimončičová E, Picard K, González Ibáñez F, Vernoux N, Droit A, Desjardins M, Tremblay MÈ. Behavioral as well as hippocampal transcriptomic and microglial responses differ across sexes in adult mouse offspring exposed to a dual genetic and environmental challenge. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 116:126-139. [PMID: 38016491 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A wide range of positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms compose the clinical presentation of schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is a multifactorial disorder in which genetic and environmental risk factors interact for a full emergence of the disorder. Infectious challenges during pregnancy are a well-known environmental risk factor for schizophrenia. Also, genetic variants affecting the function of fractalkine signaling between neurons and microglia were linked to schizophrenia. Translational animal models recapitulating these complex gene-environment associations have a great potential to untangle schizophrenia neurobiology and propose new therapeutic strategies. METHODS Given that genetic variants affecting the function of fractalkine signaling between neurons and microglia were linked to schizophrenia, we compared the outcomes of a well-characterized model of maternal immune activation induced using the viral mimetic polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C) in wild-type versus fractalkine receptor knockout mice. Possible behavioral and immune alterations were assessed in male and female offspring during adulthood. Considering the role of the hippocampus in schizophrenia, microglial analyses and bulk RNA sequencing were performed within this region to assess the neuroimmune dynamics at play. Males and females were examined separately. RESULTS Offspring exposed to the dual challenge paradigm exhibited symptoms relevant to schizophrenia and unpredictably to mood disorders. Males displayed social and cognitive deficits related to schizophrenia, while females mainly presented anxiety-like behaviors related to mood disorders. Hippocampal microglia in females exposed to the dual challenge were hypertrophic, indicative of an increased surveillance, whereas those in males showed on the other end of the spectrum blunted morphologies with a reduced phagocytosis. Hippocampal bulk-RNA sequencing further revealed a downregulation in females of genes related to GABAergic transmission, which represents one of the main proposed causes of mood disorders. CONCLUSIONS Building on previous results, we identified in the current study distinctive behavioral phenotypes in female mice exposed to a dual genetic and environmental challenge, thus proposing a new model of neurodevelopmentally-associated mood and affective symptoms. This paves the way to future sex-specific investigations into the susceptibility to developmental challenges using animal models based on genetic and immune vulnerability as presented here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micaël Carrier
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada; Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Chin W Hui
- Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Valérie Watters
- Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Eva Šimončičová
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Katherine Picard
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada; Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada; Département de médecine moléculaire, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Fernando González Ibáñez
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada; Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada; Département de médecine moléculaire, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Nathalie Vernoux
- Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Arnaud Droit
- Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada; Département de médecine moléculaire, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Michèle Desjardins
- Department of Physics, Physical Engineering and Optics, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada; Oncology Axis, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Marie-Ève Tremblay
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada; Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.
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Gellner AK, Reis J, Fiebich BL, Fritsch B. Cx3cr1 deficiency interferes with learning- and direct current stimulation-mediated neuroplasticity of the motor cortex. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:177-191. [PMID: 38049944 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16206] [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: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Microglia are essential contributors to synaptic transmission and stability and communicate with neurons via the fractalkine pathway. Transcranial direct current stimulation [(t)DCS], a form of non-invasive electrical brain stimulation, modulates cortical excitability and promotes neuroplasticity, which has been extensively demonstrated in the motor cortex and for motor learning. The role of microglia and their fractalkine receptor CX3CR1 in motor cortical neuroplasticity mediated by DCS or motor learning requires further elucidation. We demonstrate the effects of pharmacological microglial depletion and genetic Cx3cr1 deficiency on the induction of DCS-induced long-term potentiation (DCS-LTP) ex vivo. The relevance of microglia-neuron communication for DCS response and structural neuroplasticity underlying motor learning are assessed via 2-photon in vivo imaging. The behavioural consequences of impaired CX3CR1 signalling are investigated for both gross and fine motor learning. We show that DCS-mediated neuroplasticity in the motor cortex depends on the presence of microglia and is driven in part by CX3CR1 signalling ex vivo and provide the first evidence of microglia interacting with neurons during DCS in vivo. Furthermore, CX3CR1 signalling is required for motor learning and underlying structural neuroplasticity in concert with microglia interaction. Although we have recently demonstrated the microglial response to DCS in vivo, we now provide a link between microglial integrity and neuronal activity for the expression of DCS-dependent neuroplasticity. In addition, we extend the knowledge on the relevance of CX3CR1 signalling for motor learning and structural neuroplasticity. The underlying molecular mechanisms and the potential impact of DCS in rescuing CX3CR1 deficits remain to be addressed in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Kathrin Gellner
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Institute of Physiology II, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Janine Reis
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Bernd L Fiebich
- Neurochemistry and Neuroimmunology Research Group, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Brita Fritsch
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Shaner S, Lu H, Lenz M, Garg S, Vlachos A, Asplund M. Brain stimulation-on-a-chip: a neuromodulation platform for brain slices. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:4967-4985. [PMID: 37909911 PMCID: PMC10661668 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00492a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Electrical stimulation of ex vivo brain tissue slices has been a method used to understand mechanisms imparted by transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), but there are significant direct current electric field (dcEF) dosage and electrochemical by-product concerns in conventional experimental setups that may impact translational findings. Therefore, we developed an on-chip platform with fluidic, electrochemical, and magnetically-induced spatial control. Fluidically, the chamber geometrically confines precise dcEF delivery to the enclosed brain slice and allows for tissue recovery in order to monitor post-stimulation effects. Electrochemically, conducting hydrogel electrodes mitigate stimulation-induced faradaic reactions typical of commonly-used metal electrodes. Magnetically, we applied ferromagnetic substrates beneath the tissue and used an external permanent magnet to enable in situ rotational control in relation to the dcEF. By combining the microfluidic chamber with live-cell calcium imaging and electrophysiological recordings, we showcased the potential to study the acute and lasting effects of dcEFs with the potential of providing multi-session stimulation. This on-chip bioelectronic platform presents a modernized yet simple solution to electrically stimulate explanted tissue by offering more environmental control to users, which unlocks new opportunities to conduct thorough brain stimulation mechanistic investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Shaner
- Department of Microsystems Engineering, University of Freiburg, Georges-Köhler-Allee 103, 79110 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- BrainLinks-BrainTools Center, University of Freiburg, Georges-Köhler-Allee 201, 79110 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Han Lu
- BrainLinks-BrainTools Center, University of Freiburg, Georges-Köhler-Allee 201, 79110 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Albertstraße 17, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.
| | - Maximilian Lenz
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Albertstraße 17, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.
- Hannover Medical School, Institute of Neuroanatomy and Cell Biology, Carl-Neuberg-Straße 1, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Shreyash Garg
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Albertstraße 17, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.
- MSc Neuroscience Program, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Andreas Vlachos
- BrainLinks-BrainTools Center, University of Freiburg, Georges-Köhler-Allee 201, 79110 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Albertstraße 17, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.
- Center for Basics in Neuromodulation (NeuroModulBasics), Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Maria Asplund
- Department of Microsystems Engineering, University of Freiburg, Georges-Köhler-Allee 103, 79110 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- BrainLinks-BrainTools Center, University of Freiburg, Georges-Köhler-Allee 201, 79110 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience, Chalmers University of Technology, Chalmersplatsen 4, 41258 Gothenburg, Sweden.
- Division of Nursing and Medical Technology, Luleå University of Technology, 79187 Luleå, Sweden
- Freiburg Institute for Advanced Studies (FRIAS), University of Freiburg, Albertstraße 19, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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Sharma G, Rahmatkar SN, Rana AK, Sharma P, Patial V, Singh D, Roy Chowdhury S. Preclinical Validation of Electrodes for Single Anodal Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Rat Model With Chronic Stress-Induced Depression. IEEE SENSORS JOURNAL 2023; 23:12133-12145. [DOI: 10.1109/jsen.2023.3266235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Gaurav Sharma
- Cognitive Brain Dynamics Laboratory, National Brain Research Centre (NBRC), Manesar, Haryana, India
| | - Shubham Nilkanth Rahmatkar
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Anil Kumar Rana
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Pallavi Sharma
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Vikram Patial
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Damanpreet Singh
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Shubhajit Roy Chowdhury
- Biomedical Systems Laboratory, School of Computing and Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Kamand Campus, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India
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Guo L, Guo M, Wu Y, Xu G. Anti-Disturbance of Scale-Free Spiking Neural Network against Impulse Noise. Brain Sci 2023; 13:brainsci13050837. [PMID: 37239309 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13050837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The bio-brain presents robustness function to external stimulus through its self-adaptive regulation and neural information processing. Drawing from the advantages of the bio-brain to investigate the robustness function of a spiking neural network (SNN) is conducive to the advance of brain-like intelligence. However, the current brain-like model is insufficient in biological rationality. In addition, its evaluation method for anti-disturbance performance is inadequate. To explore the self-adaptive regulation performance of a brain-like model with more biological rationality under external noise, a scale-free spiking neural network(SFSNN) is constructed in this study. Then, the anti-disturbance ability of the SFSNN against impulse noise is investigated, and the anti-disturbance mechanism is further discussed. Our simulation results indicate that: (i) our SFSNN has anti-disturbance ability against impulse noise, and the high-clustering SFSNN outperforms the low-clustering SFSNN in terms of anti-disturbance performance. (ii) The neural information processing in the SFSNN under external noise is clarified, which is a dynamic chain effect of the neuron firing, the synaptic weight, and the topological characteristic. (iii) Our discussion hints that an intrinsic factor of the anti-disturbance ability is the synaptic plasticity, and the network topology is a factor that affects the anti-disturbance ability at the level of performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reliability and Intelligence of Electrical Equipment, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetics and Neuroengineering, School of Health Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China
| | - Minxin Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reliability and Intelligence of Electrical Equipment, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetics and Neuroengineering, School of Health Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China
| | - Youxi Wu
- School of Artificial Intelligence, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, China
| | - Guizhi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reliability and Intelligence of Electrical Equipment, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Bioelectromagnetics and Neuroengineering, School of Health Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China
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Scheinok TJ, D'Haeseleer M, Nagels G, De Bundel D, Van Schependom J. Neuronal activity and NIBS in developmental myelination and remyelination - current state of knowledge. Prog Neurobiol 2023; 226:102459. [PMID: 37127087 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2023.102459] [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: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Oligodendrocytes are responsible for myelinating central nervous system (CNS) axons. and rapid electrical transmission through saltatory conduction of action potentials. Myelination and myelin repair rely partially on oligodendrogenesis, which comprises. oligodendrocyte precursor cell (OPC) migration, maturation, and differentiation into. oligodendrocytes (OL). In multiple sclerosis (MS), demyelination occurs due to an. inflammatory cascade with auto-reactive T-cells. When oligodendrogenesis fails, remyelination becomes aberrant and conduction impairments are no longer restored. Although current disease modifying therapies have achieved results in modulating the. faulty immune response, disease progression continues because of chronic. inflammation, neurodegeneration, and failure of remyelination. Therapies have been. tried to promote remyelination. Modulation of neuronal activity seems to be a very. promising strategy in preclinical studies. Additionally, studies in people with MS. (pwMS) have shown symptom improvement following non-invasive brain stimulation. (NIBS) techniques. The aforementioned mechanisms are yet unknown and probably. involve both the activation of neurons and glial cells. Noting neuronal activity. contributes to myelin plasticity and that NIBS modulates neuronal activity; we argue. that NIBS is a promising research horizon for demyelinating diseases. We review the. hypothesized pathways through which NIBS may affect both neuronal activity in the. CNS and how the resulting activity can affect oligodendrogenesis and myelination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Scheinok
- AIMS Lab, Center for Neurosciences, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Brussel, Belgium; Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology (EFAR), Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Miguel D'Haeseleer
- Nationaal Multiple Sclerose Centrum, Vanheylenstraat 16, 1820 Melsbroek, Belgium
| | - Guy Nagels
- AIMS Lab, Center for Neurosciences, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Brussel, Belgium; St Edmund Hall, University of Oxford, Queen's Lane, Oxford, UK
| | - Dimitri De Bundel
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology (EFAR), Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Van Schependom
- AIMS Lab, Center for Neurosciences, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Brussel, Belgium; Department of Electronics and Informatics (ETRO), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Brussel, Belgium
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Eichler A, Kleidonas D, Turi Z, Fliegauf M, Kirsch M, Pfeifer D, Masuda T, Prinz M, Lenz M, Vlachos A. Microglial Cytokines Mediate Plasticity Induced by 10 Hz Repetitive Magnetic Stimulation. J Neurosci 2023; 43:3042-3060. [PMID: 36977586 PMCID: PMC10146500 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2226-22.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Microglia, the resident immune cells of the CNS, sense the activity of neurons and regulate physiological brain functions. They have been implicated in the pathology of brain diseases associated with alterations in neural excitability and plasticity. However, experimental and therapeutic approaches that modulate microglia function in a brain region-specific manner have not been established. In this study, we tested for the effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a clinically used noninvasive brain stimulation technique, on microglia-mediated synaptic plasticity; 10 Hz electromagnetic stimulation triggered a release of plasticity-promoting cytokines from microglia in mouse organotypic brain tissue cultures of both sexes, while no significant changes in microglial morphology or microglia dynamics were observed. Indeed, substitution of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and interleukin 6 (IL6) preserved synaptic plasticity induced by 10 Hz stimulation in the absence of microglia. Consistent with these findings, in vivo depletion of microglia abolished rTMS-induced changes in neurotransmission in the mPFC of anesthetized mice of both sexes. We conclude that rTMS affects neural excitability and plasticity by modulating the release of cytokines from microglia.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique that induces cortical plasticity. Despite its wide use in neuroscience and clinical practice (e.g., depression treatment), the cellular and molecular mechanisms of rTMS-mediated plasticity remain not well understood. Herein, we report an important role of microglia and plasticity-promoting cytokines in synaptic plasticity induced by 10 Hz rTMS in organotypic slice cultures and anesthetized mice, thereby identifying microglia-mediated synaptic adaptation as a target of rTMS-based interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelie Eichler
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dimitrios Kleidonas
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Zsolt Turi
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Maximilian Fliegauf
- Institute of Neuropathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology and Biotechnology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Kirsch
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dietmar Pfeifer
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Takahiro Masuda
- Institute of Neuropathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Molecular and System Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Marco Prinz
- Institute of Neuropathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Center for Basics in Neuromodulation (NeuroModulBasics), Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Maximilian Lenz
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Vlachos
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Center for Basics in Neuromodulation (NeuroModulBasics), Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
- Center BrainLinks-BrainTools, University of Freiburg, 79110 Freiburg, Germany
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11
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He Y, Liu S, Chen L, Ke Y, Ming D. Neurophysiological mechanisms of transcranial alternating current stimulation. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1091925. [PMID: 37090788 PMCID: PMC10117687 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1091925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuronal oscillations are the primary basis for precise temporal coordination of neuronal processing and are linked to different brain functions. Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) has demonstrated promising potential in improving cognition by entraining neural oscillations. Despite positive findings in recent decades, the results obtained are sometimes rife with variance and replicability problems, and the findings translation to humans is quite challenging. A thorough understanding of the mechanisms underlying tACS is necessitated for accurate interpretation of experimental results. Animal models are useful for understanding tACS mechanisms, optimizing parameter administration, and improving rational design for broad horizons of tACS. Here, we review recent electrophysiological advances in tACS from animal models, as well as discuss some critical issues for results coordination and translation. We hope to provide an overview of neurophysiological mechanisms and recommendations for future consideration to improve its validity, specificity, and reproducibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen He
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Long Chen
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yufeng Ke
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Dong Ming
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Precision Instruments and Optoelectronics Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin International Joint Research Center for Neural Engineering, Tianjin, China
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12
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Gellner AK, Frase S, Reis J, Fritsch B. Direct current stimulation increases blood flow and permeability of cortical microvasculature in vivo. Eur J Neurol 2023; 30:362-371. [PMID: 36305221 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Transcranial direct current stimulation (DCS) structurally and functionally modulates neuronal networks and microglia dynamics. Neurovascular coupling adapts regional cerebral blood flow to neuronal activity and metabolic demands. METHODS In this study, we examined effects of anodal DCS on vessel morphology, blood flow parameters, permeability of cortical microvasculature, and perivascular microglia motility by time-lapse two-photon microscopy in anaesthetized mice. RESULTS Low-intensity DCS significantly increased vessel diameter and blood flow parameters. These effects were transient and dependent on the spontaneous vasomotion characteristics of the individual vessel. Vessel leakage increased significantly after DCS at 1.1 and was more pronounced at 2.2 A/m2 , indicating a dose-dependent increase in vascular permeability. Perivascular microglia exhibited increased soma motility post-DCS at both intensities, potentially triggered by the extravasation of intravascular substrates. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that DCS affected only vessels with spontaneous vasomotion. This rapid vascular response may occur as an adaptation of regional blood supply to neuronal excitability altered by DCS or as a direct effect on the vessel wall. In contrast to these immediate effects during stimulation, increases in cortical vessel permeability and perivascular microglia motility appeared after the stimulation had ended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Kathrin Gellner
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sibylle Frase
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Janine Reis
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Brita Fritsch
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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13
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A microfluidic perspective on conventional in vitro transcranial direct current stimulation methods. J Neurosci Methods 2023; 385:109761. [PMID: 36470469 PMCID: PMC9884911 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2022.109761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a promising non-invasive brain stimulation method to treat neurological and psychiatric diseases. However, its underlying neural mechanisms warrant further investigation. Indeed, dose-response interrelations are poorly understood. Placing explanted brain tissue, mostly from mice or rats, into a uniform direct current electric field (dcEF) is a well-established in vitro system to elucidate the neural mechanism of tDCS. Nevertheless, we will show that generating a defined, uniform, and constant dcEF throughout a brain slice is challenging. This article critically reviews the methods used to generate and calibrate a uniform dcEF. We use finite element analysis (FEA) to evaluate the widely used parallel electrode configuration and show that it may not reliably generate uniform dcEF within a brain slice inside an open interface or submerged chamber. Moreover, equivalent circuit analysis and measurements inside a testing chamber suggest that calibrating the dcEF intensity with two recording electrodes can inaccurately capture the true EF magnitude in the targeted tissue when specific criteria are not met. Finally, we outline why microfluidic chambers are an effective and calibration-free approach of generating spatiotemporally uniform dcEF for DCS in vitro studies, facilitating accurate and fine-scale dcEF adjustments. We are convinced that improving the precision and addressing the limitations of current experimental platforms will substantially improve the reproducibility of in vitro experimental results. A better mechanistic understanding of dose-response relations will ultimately facilitate more effective non-invasive stimulation therapies in patients.
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14
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Arora Y, Dutta A. Perspective: Disentangling the effects of tES on neurovascular unit. Front Neurol 2023; 13:1038700. [PMID: 36698881 PMCID: PMC9868757 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1038700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) can modulate the neurovascular unit, including the perivascular space morphology, but the mechanisms are unclear. In this perspective article, we used an open-source "rsHRF toolbox" and an open-source functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) data set to show the effects of tDCS on the temporal profile of the haemodynamic response function (HRF). We investigated the effects of tDCS in the gray matter and at three regions of interest in the gray matter, namely, the anodal electrode (FC5), cathodal electrode (FP2), and an independent site remote from the electrodes (PZ). A "canonical HRF" with time and dispersion derivatives and a finite impulse response (FIR) model with three parameters captured the effects of anodal tDCS on the temporal profile of the HRF. The FIR model showed tDCS onset effects on the temporal profile of HRF for verum and sham tDCS conditions that were different from the no tDCS condition, which questions the validity of the sham tDCS (placebo). Here, we postulated that the effects of tDCS onset on the temporal profile of HRF are subserved by the effects on neurovascular coupling. We provide our perspective based on previous work on tES effects on the neurovascular unit, including mechanistic grey-box modeling of the effects of tES on the vasculature that can facilitate model predictive control (MPC). Future studies need to investigate grey-box modeling of online effects of tES on the neurovascular unit, including perivascular space, neurometabolic coupling, and neurovascular coupling, that can facilitate MPC of the tES dose-response to address the momentary ("state") and phenotypic ("trait") factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yashika Arora
- Neuroimaging and Neurospectroscopy (NINS) Laboratory, National Brain Research Centre, Gurugram, India
| | - Anirban Dutta
- School of Engineering, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
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15
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Walter HL, Pikhovych A, Endepols H, Rotthues S, Bärmann J, Backes H, Hoehn M, Wiedermann D, Neumaier B, Fink GR, Rüger MA, Schroeter M. Transcranial-Direct-Current-Stimulation Accelerates Motor Recovery After Cortical Infarction in Mice: The Interplay of Structural Cellular Responses and Functional Recovery. Neurorehabil Neural Repair 2022; 36:701-714. [PMID: 36124996 DOI: 10.1177/15459683221124116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) promotes recovery after stroke in humans. The underlying mechanisms, however, remain to be elucidated. Animal models suggest tDCS effects on neuroinflammation, stem cell proliferation, neurogenesis, and neural plasticity. OBJECTIVE In a longitudinal study, we employed tDCS in the subacute and chronic phase after experimental focal cerebral ischemia in mice to explore the relationship between functional recovery and cellular processes. METHODS Mice received photothrombosis in the right motor cortex, verified by Magnetic Resonance Imaging. A composite neuroscore quantified subsequent functional deficits. Mice received tDCS daily: either 5 sessions from day 5 to 9, or 10 sessions with days 12 to 16 in addition. TDCS with anodal or cathodal polarity was compared to sham stimulation. Further imaging to assess proliferation and neuroinflammation was performed by immunohistochemistry at different time points and Positron Emission Tomography at the end of the observation time of 3 weeks. RESULTS Cathodal tDCS at 198 kC/m2 (220 A/m2) between days 5 and 9 accelerated functional recovery, increased neurogenesis, decreased microglial activation, and mitigated CD16/32-expression associated with M1-phenotype. Anodal tDCS exerted similar effects on neurogenesis and microglial polarization but not on recovery of function or microglial activation. TDCS on days 12 to 16 after stroke did not induce any further effects, suggesting that the therapeutic time window was closed by then. CONCLUSION Overall, data suggest that non-invasive neuromodulation by tDCS impacts neurogenesis and microglial activation as critical cellular processes influencing functional recovery during the early phase of regeneration from focal cerebral ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene Luise Walter
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Anton Pikhovych
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Heike Endepols
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Institute of Radiochemistry and Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Nuclear Chemistry (INM-5), Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, Germany
| | - Steffen Rotthues
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Johannes Bärmann
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Heiko Backes
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mathias Hoehn
- Cognitive Neuroscience (INM-3), Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, Germany
| | - Dirk Wiedermann
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research, Cologne, Germany
| | - Bernd Neumaier
- Institute of Radiochemistry and Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Nuclear Chemistry (INM-5), Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, Germany
| | - Gereon Rudolf Fink
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cognitive Neuroscience (INM-3), Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, Germany
| | - Maria Adele Rüger
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cognitive Neuroscience (INM-3), Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, Germany
| | - Michael Schroeter
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cognitive Neuroscience (INM-3), Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, Germany
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16
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Williams NP, Kushwah N, Dhawan V, Zheng XS, Cui XT. Effects of central nervous system electrical stimulation on non-neuronal cells. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:967491. [PMID: 36188481 PMCID: PMC9521315 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.967491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past few decades, much progress has been made in the clinical use of electrical stimulation of the central nervous system (CNS) to treat an ever-growing number of conditions from Parkinson's disease (PD) to epilepsy as well as for sensory restoration and many other applications. However, little is known about the effects of microstimulation at the cellular level. Most of the existing research focuses on the effects of electrical stimulation on neurons. Other cells of the CNS such as microglia, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and vascular endothelial cells have been understudied in terms of their response to stimulation. The varied and critical functions of these cell types are now beginning to be better understood, and their vital roles in brain function in both health and disease are becoming better appreciated. To shed light on the importance of the way electrical stimulation as distinct from device implantation impacts non-neuronal cell types, this review will first summarize common stimulation modalities from the perspective of device design and stimulation parameters and how these different parameters have an impact on the physiological response. Following this, what is known about the responses of different cell types to different stimulation modalities will be summarized, drawing on findings from both clinical studies as well as clinically relevant animal models and in vitro systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel P. Williams
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Neetu Kushwah
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Vaishnavi Dhawan
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Xin Sally Zheng
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Xinyan Tracy Cui
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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17
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Liu J, Ma AK, So KF, Lee VW, Chiu K. Mechanisms of electrical stimulation in eye diseases: A narrative review. ADVANCES IN OPHTHALMOLOGY PRACTICE AND RESEARCH 2022; 2:100060. [PMID: 37846384 PMCID: PMC10577855 DOI: 10.1016/j.aopr.2022.100060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Background In the last two decades, electrical stimulation (ES) has been tested in patients with various eye diseases and shows great treatment potential in retinitis pigmentosa and optic neuropathy. However, the clinical application of ES in ophthalmology is currently limited. On the one hand, optimization and standardization of ES protocols is still an unmet need. On the other hand, poor understanding of the underlying mechanisms has hindered clinical exploitation. Main Text Numerous experimental studies have been conducted to identify the treatment potential of ES in eye diseases and to explore the related cellular and molecular mechanisms. In this review, we summarized the in vitro and in vivo evidence related to cellular and tissue response to ES in eye diseases. We highlighted several pathways that may be utilized by ES to impose its effects on the diseased retina. Conclusions Therapeutic effect of ES in retinal degenerative diseases might through preventing neuronal apoptosis, promoting neuronal regeneration, increasing neurotrophic factors production in Müller cells, inhibiting microglial activation, enhancing retinal blood flow, and modulating brain plasticity. Future studies are suggested to analyse changes in specific retinal cells for optimizing the treatment parameters and choosing the best fit ES delivery method in target diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfeng Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Hong Kong, SAR, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Kwok Fai So
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Hong Kong, SAR, Hong Kong, China
- The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, SAR, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, SAR, Hong Kong, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of Central Nervous System Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Vincent W.H. Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Hong Kong, SAR, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kin Chiu
- The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, SAR, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, SAR, Hong Kong, China
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18
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Early Application of Ipsilateral Cathodal-tDCS in a Mouse Model of Brain Ischemia Results in Functional Improvement and Perilesional Microglia Modulation. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12040588. [PMID: 35454177 PMCID: PMC9027610 DOI: 10.3390/biom12040588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Early stroke therapeutic approaches rely on limited options, further characterized by a narrow therapeutic time window. In this context, the application of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in the acute phases after brain ischemia is emerging as a promising non-invasive tool. Despite the wide clinical application of tDCS, the cellular mechanisms underlying its positive effects are still poorly understood. Here, we explored the effects of cathodal tDCS (C-tDCS) 6 h after focal forelimb M1 ischemia in Cx3CR1GFP/+ mice. C-tDCS improved motor functionality of the affected forelimb, as assessed by the cylinder and foot-fault tests at 48 h, though not changing the ischemic volume. In parallel, histological analysis showed that motor recovery is associated with decreased microglial cell density in the area surrounding the ischemic core, while astrocytes were not affected. Deeper analysis of microglia morphology within the perilesional area revealed a shift toward a more ramified healthier state, with increased processes’ complexity and a less phagocytic anti-inflammatory activity. Taken together, our findings suggest a positive role for early C-tDCS after ischemia, which is able to modulate microglia phenotype and morphology in parallel to motor recovery.
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