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Wu Y, Zhang D, Liu J, Jiang J, Xie K, Wu L, Leng Y, Liang P, Zhu T, Zhou C. Activity of the Sodium Leak Channel Maintains the Excitability of Paraventricular Thalamus Glutamatergic Neurons to Resist Anesthetic Effects of Sevoflurane in Mice. Anesthesiology 2024; 141:56-74. [PMID: 38625708 DOI: 10.1097/aln.0000000000005015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stimulation of the paraventricular thalamus has been found to enhance anesthesia recovery; however, the underlying molecular mechanism by which general anesthetics modulate paraventricular thalamus is unclear. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that the sodium leak channel (NALCN) maintains neuronal activity in the paraventricular thalamus to resist anesthetic effects of sevoflurane in mice. METHODS Chemogenetic and optogenetic manipulations, in vivo multiple-channel recordings, and electroencephalogram recordings were used to investigate the role of paraventricular thalamus neuronal activity in sevoflurane anesthesia. Virus-mediated knockdown and/or overexpression was applied to determine how NALCN influenced excitability of paraventricular thalamus glutamatergic neurons under sevoflurane. Viral tracers and local field potentials were used to explore the downstream pathway. RESULTS Single neuronal spikes in the paraventricular thalamus were suppressed by sevoflurane anesthesia and recovered during emergence. Optogenetic activation of paraventricular thalamus glutamatergic neurons shortened the emergence period from sevoflurane anesthesia, while chemogenetic inhibition had the opposite effect. Knockdown of the NALCN in the paraventricular thalamus delayed the emergence from sevoflurane anesthesia (recovery time: from 24 ± 14 to 64 ± 19 s, P < 0.001; concentration for recovery of the righting reflex: from 1.13% ± 0.10% to 0.97% ± 0.13%, P < 0.01). As expected, the overexpression of the NALCN in the paraventricular thalamus produced the opposite effects. At the circuit level, knockdown of the NALCN in the paraventricular thalamus decreased the neuronal activity of the nucleus accumbens, as indicated by the local field potential and decreased single neuronal spikes in the nucleus accumbens. Additionally, the effects of NALCN knockdown in the paraventricular thalamus on sevoflurane actions were reversed by optical stimulation of the nucleus accumbens. CONCLUSIONS Activity of the NALCN maintains the excitability of paraventricular thalamus glutamatergic neurons to resist the anesthetic effects of sevoflurane in mice. EDITOR’S PERSPECTIVE
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Donghang Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jingyao Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Keyu Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yu Leng
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Peng Liang
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tao Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Cheng Zhou
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Steponenaite A, Lalic T, Atkinson L, Tanday N, Brown L, Mathie A, Cader ZM, Lall GS. TASK-3, two-pore potassium channels, contribute to circadian rhythms in the electrical properties of the suprachiasmatic nucleus and play a role in driving stable behavioural photic entrainment. Chronobiol Int 2024; 41:802-816. [PMID: 38757583 DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2024.2351515] [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: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Stable and entrainable physiological circadian rhythms are crucial for overall health and well-being. The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the primary circadian pacemaker in mammals, consists of diverse neuron types that collectively generate a circadian profile of electrical activity. However, the mechanisms underlying the regulation of endogenous neuronal excitability in the SCN remain unclear. Two-pore domain potassium channels (K2P), including TASK-3, are known to play a significant role in maintaining SCN diurnal homeostasis by inhibiting neuronal activity at night. In this study, we investigated the role of TASK-3 in SCN circadian neuronal regulation and behavioural photoentrainment using a TASK-3 global knockout mouse model. Our findings demonstrate the importance of TASK-3 in maintaining SCN hyperpolarization during the night and establishing SCN sensitivity to glutamate. Specifically, we observed that TASK-3 knockout mice lacked diurnal variation in resting membrane potential and exhibited altered glutamate sensitivity both in vivo and in vitro. Interestingly, despite these changes, the mice lacking TASK-3 were still able to maintain relatively normal circadian behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tatjana Lalic
- Translational Molecular Neuroscience Group, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Neil Tanday
- Medway School of Pharmacy, University of Kent, Kent, UK
| | - Lorna Brown
- Medway School of Pharmacy, University of Kent, Kent, UK
| | | | - Zameel M Cader
- Translational Molecular Neuroscience Group, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Lucas-Romero J, Rivera-Arconada I, Lopez-Garcia JA. Noise or signal? Spontaneous activity of dorsal horn neurons: patterns and function in health and disease. Pflugers Arch 2024:10.1007/s00424-024-02971-8. [PMID: 38822875 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-024-02971-8] [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: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Spontaneous activity refers to the firing of action potentials by neurons in the absence of external stimulation. Initially considered an artifact or "noise" in the nervous system, it is now recognized as a potential feature of neural function. Spontaneous activity has been observed in various brain areas, in experimental preparations from different animal species, and in live animals and humans using non-invasive imaging techniques. In this review, we specifically focus on the spontaneous activity of dorsal horn neurons of the spinal cord. We use a historical perspective to set the basis for a novel classification of the different patterns of spontaneous activity exhibited by dorsal horn neurons. Then we examine the origins of this activity and propose a model circuit to explain how the activity is generated and transmitted to the dorsal horn. Finally, we discuss possible roles of this activity during development and during signal processing under physiological conditions and pain states. By analyzing recent studies on the spontaneous activity of dorsal horn neurons, we aim to shed light on its significance in sensory processing. Understanding the different patterns of activity, the origins of this activity, and the potential roles it may play, will contribute to our knowledge of sensory mechanisms, including pain, to facilitate the modeling of spinal circuits and hopefully to explore novel strategies for pain treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Lucas-Romero
- Department of Systems Biology, University of Alcala, 28805, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Physical Therapy, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63108, USA
| | | | - Jose Antonio Lopez-Garcia
- Department of Systems Biology, University of Alcala, 28805, Madrid, Spain.
- Departamento de Biologia de Sistemas, Edificio de Medicina, Universidad de Alcala, Ctra. Madrid-Barcelona, Km 33,600, 28805, Alcala de Henares, Madrid, Spain.
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4
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Yu Y, Chen Z, Zheng B, Huang M, Li J, Li G. Molecular distinctions of bronchoalveolar and alveolar organoids under differentiation conditions. Physiol Rep 2024; 12:e16057. [PMID: 38825580 PMCID: PMC11144550 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.16057] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The bronchoalveolar organoid (BAO) model is increasingly acknowledged as an ex-vivo platform that accurately emulates the structural and functional attributes of proximal airway tissue. The transition from bronchoalveolar progenitor cells to alveolar organoids is a common event during the generation of BAOs. However, there is a pressing need for comprehensive analysis to elucidate the molecular distinctions characterizing the pre-differentiated and post-differentiated states within BAO models. This study established a murine BAO model and subsequently triggered its differentiation. Thereafter, a suite of multidimensional analytical procedures was employed, including the morphological recognition and examination of organoids utilizing an established artificial intelligence (AI) image tracking system, quantification of cellular composition, proteomic profiling and immunoblots of selected proteins. Our investigation yielded a detailed evaluation of the morphologic, cellular, and molecular variances demarcating the pre- and post-differentiation phases of the BAO model. We also identified of a potential molecular signature reflective of the observed morphological transformations. The integration of cutting-edge AI-driven image analysis with traditional cellular and molecular investigative methods has illuminated key features of this nascent model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yu
- Nanfang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Zexin Chen
- Guangdong Research Center of Organoid Engineering and TechnologyGuangzhouChina
| | - Bin Zheng
- Guangdong Research Center of Organoid Engineering and TechnologyGuangzhouChina
| | - Min Huang
- Guangdong Research Center of Organoid Engineering and TechnologyGuangzhouChina
| | - Junlang Li
- Guangzhou No.3 High SchoolGuangzhouChina
| | - Gang Li
- Nanfang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
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Chen HW, Ma CP, Chin E, Chen YT, Wang TC, Kuo YP, Su CH, Huang PJ, Tan BCM. Imbalance in Unc80 RNA Editing Disrupts Dynamic Neuronal Activity and Olfactory Perception. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5985. [PMID: 38892173 PMCID: PMC11172567 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115985] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
A-to-I RNA editing, catalyzed by the ADAR protein family, significantly contributes to the diversity and adaptability of mammalian RNA signatures, aligning with developmental and physiological needs. Yet, the functions of many editing sites are still to be defined. The Unc80 gene stands out in this context due to its brain-specific expression and the evolutionary conservation of its codon-altering editing event. The precise biological functions of Unc80 and its editing, however, are still largely undefined. In this study, we first demonstrated that Unc80 editing occurs in an ADAR2-dependent manner and is exclusive to the brain. By employing the CRISPR/Cas9 system to generate Unc80 knock-in mouse models that replicate the natural editing variations, our findings revealed that mice with the "gain-of-editing" variant (Unc80G/G) exhibit heightened basal neuronal activity in critical olfactory regions, compared to the "loss-of-editing" (Unc80S/S) counterparts. Moreover, an increase in glutamate levels was observed in the olfactory bulbs of Unc80G/G mice, indicating altered neurotransmitter dynamics. Behavioral analysis of odor detection revealed distinctive responses to novel odors-both Unc80 deficient (Unc80+/-) and Unc80S/S mice demonstrated prolonged exploration times and heightened dishabituation responses. Further elucidating the olfactory connection of Unc80 editing, transcriptomic analysis of the olfactory bulb identified significant alterations in gene expression that corroborate the behavioral and physiological findings. Collectively, our research advances the understanding of Unc80's neurophysiological functions and the impact of its editing on the olfactory sensory system, shedding light on the intricate molecular underpinnings of olfactory perception and neuronal activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Wen Chen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-W.C.); (C.-P.M.); (E.C.); (Y.-T.C.); (P.-J.H.)
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Chung-Pei Ma
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-W.C.); (C.-P.M.); (E.C.); (Y.-T.C.); (P.-J.H.)
| | - En Chin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-W.C.); (C.-P.M.); (E.C.); (Y.-T.C.); (P.-J.H.)
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Yi-Tung Chen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-W.C.); (C.-P.M.); (E.C.); (Y.-T.C.); (P.-J.H.)
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Teh-Cheng Wang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Yu-Ping Kuo
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Chia-Hao Su
- Center for General Education, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Po-Jung Huang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-W.C.); (C.-P.M.); (E.C.); (Y.-T.C.); (P.-J.H.)
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
- Genomic Medicine Core Laboratory, Lin-Kou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Bertrand Chin-Ming Tan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-W.C.); (C.-P.M.); (E.C.); (Y.-T.C.); (P.-J.H.)
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Lin-Kou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Lin-Kou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
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Schott K, Usher SG, Serra O, Carnevale V, Pless SA, Chua HC. Unplugging lateral fenestrations of NALCN reveals a hidden drug binding site within the pore region. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2401591121. [PMID: 38787877 PMCID: PMC11145269 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2401591121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The sodium (Na+) leak channel (NALCN) is a member of the four-domain voltage-gated cation channel family that includes the prototypical voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels (NaVs and CaVs, respectively). Unlike NaVs and CaVs, which have four lateral fenestrations that serve as routes for lipophilic compounds to enter the central cavity to modulate channel function, NALCN has bulky residues (W311, L588, M1145, and Y1436) that block these openings. Structural data suggest that occluded fenestrations underlie the pharmacological resistance of NALCN, but functional evidence is lacking. To test this hypothesis, we unplugged the fenestrations of NALCN by substituting the four aforementioned residues with alanine (AAAA) and compared the effects of NaV, CaV, and NALCN blockers on both wild-type (WT) and AAAA channels. Most compounds behaved in a similar manner on both channels, but phenytoin and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB) elicited additional, distinct responses on AAAA channels. Further experiments using single alanine mutants revealed that phenytoin and 2-APB enter the inner cavity through distinct fenestrations, implying structural specificity to their modes of access. Using a combination of computational and functional approaches, we identified amino acid residues critical for 2-APB activity, supporting the existence of drug binding site(s) within the pore region. Intrigued by the activity of 2-APB and its analogues, we tested compounds containing the diphenylmethane/amine moiety on WT channels. We identified clinically used drugs that exhibited diverse activity, thus expanding the pharmacological toolbox for NALCN. While the low potencies of active compounds reiterate the pharmacological resistance of NALCN, our findings lay the foundation for rational drug design to develop NALCN modulators with refined properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Schott
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen2100, Denmark
| | - Samuel George Usher
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen2100, Denmark
| | - Oscar Serra
- Department of Biology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA19122
- Institute for Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA19122
- Institute of Computational Molecular Science, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA19122
| | - Vincenzo Carnevale
- Department of Biology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA19122
- Institute for Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA19122
- Institute of Computational Molecular Science, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA19122
| | - Stephan Alexander Pless
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen2100, Denmark
| | - Han Chow Chua
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen2100, Denmark
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Wu L, Zhang D, Wu Y, Liu J, Jiang J, Zhou C. Sodium Leak Channel in Glutamatergic Neurons of the Lateral Parabrachial Nucleus Helps to Maintain Respiratory Frequency Under Sevoflurane Anesthesia. Neurosci Bull 2024:10.1007/s12264-024-01223-0. [PMID: 38767833 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-024-01223-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The lateral parabrachial nucleus (PBL) is implicated in the regulation of respiratory activity. Sodium leak channel (NALCN) mutations disrupt the respiratory rhythm and influence anesthetic sensitivity in both rodents and humans. Here, we investigated whether the NALCN in PBL glutamatergic neurons maintains respiratory function under general anesthesia. Our results showed that chemogenetic activation of PBL glutamatergic neurons increased the respiratory frequency (RF) in mice; whereas chemogenetic inhibition suppressed RF. NALCN knockdown in PBL glutamatergic neurons but not GABAergic neurons significantly reduced RF under physiological conditions and caused more respiratory suppression under sevoflurane anesthesia. NALCN knockdown in PBL glutamatergic neurons did not further exacerbate the respiratory suppression induced by propofol or morphine. Under sevoflurane anesthesia, painful stimuli rapidly increased the RF, which was not affected by NALCN knockdown in PBL glutamatergic neurons. This study suggested that the NALCN is a key ion channel in PBL glutamatergic neurons that maintains respiratory frequency under volatile anesthetic sevoflurane but not intravenous anesthetic propofol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Donghang Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Yujie Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jingyao Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Cheng Zhou
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Tian J, Bavencoffe AG, Zhu MX, Walters ET. Readiness of nociceptor cell bodies to generate spontaneous activity results from background activity of diverse ion channels and high input resistance. Pain 2024; 165:893-907. [PMID: 37862056 PMCID: PMC10950548 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Nociceptor cell bodies generate "spontaneous" discharge that can promote ongoing pain in persistent pain conditions. Little is known about the underlying mechanisms. Recordings from nociceptor cell bodies (somata) dissociated from rodent and human dorsal root ganglia have shown that previous pain in vivo is associated with low-frequency discharge controlled by irregular depolarizing spontaneous fluctuations of membrane potential (DSFs), likely produced by transient inward currents across the somal input resistance. Using mouse nociceptors, we show that DSFs are associated with high somal input resistance over a wide range of membrane potentials, including depolarized levels where DSFs approach action potential (AP) threshold. Input resistance and both the amplitude and frequency of DSFs were increased in neurons exhibiting spontaneous activity. Ion substitution experiments indicated that the depolarizing phase of DSFs is generated by spontaneous opening of channels permeable to Na + or Ca 2+ and that Ca 2+ -permeable channels are especially important for larger DSFs. Partial reduction of the amplitude or frequency of DSFs by perfusion of pharmacological inhibitors indicated small but significant contributions from Nav1.7, Nav1.8, TRPV1, TRPA1, TRPM4, and N-type Ca 2+ channels. Less specific blockers suggested a contribution from NALCN channels, and global knockout suggested a role for Nav1.9. The combination of high somal input resistance plus background activity of diverse ion channels permeable to Na + or Ca 2+ produces DSFs that are poised to reach AP threshold if resting membrane potential depolarizes, AP threshold decreases, or DSFs become enhanced-all of which can occur under painful neuropathic and inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinbin Tian
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Alexis G. Bavencoffe
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Michael X. Zhu
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Edgar T. Walters
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
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9
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Zheng Y, Kang S, O'Neill J, Bojak I. Spontaneous slow wave oscillations in extracellular field potential recordings reflect the alternating dominance of excitation and inhibition. J Physiol 2024; 602:713-736. [PMID: 38294945 DOI: 10.1113/jp284587] [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: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
In the resting state, cortical neurons can fire action potentials spontaneously but synchronously (Up state), followed by a quiescent period (Down state) before the cycle repeats. Extracellular recordings in the infragranular layer of cortex with a micro-electrode display a negative deflection (depth-negative) during Up states and a positive deflection (depth-positive) during Down states. The resulting slow wave oscillation (SWO) has been studied extensively during sleep and under anaesthesia. However, recent research on the balanced nature of synaptic excitation and inhibition has highlighted our limited understanding of its genesis. Specifically, are excitation and inhibition balanced during SWOs? We analyse spontaneous local field potentials (LFPs) during SWOs recorded from anaesthetised rats via a multi-channel laminar micro-electrode and show that the Down state consists of two distinct synaptic states: a Dynamic Down state associated with depth-positive LFPs and a prominent dipole in the extracellular field, and a Static Down state with negligible (≈ 0 mV $ \approx 0{\mathrm{\;mV}}$ ) LFPs and a lack of dipoles extracellularly. We demonstrate that depth-negative and -positive LFPs are generated by a shift in the balance of synaptic excitation and inhibition from excitation dominance (depth-negative) to inhibition dominance (depth-positive) in the infragranular layer neurons. Thus, although excitation and inhibition co-tune overall, differences in their timing lead to an alternation of dominance, manifesting as SWOs. We further show that Up state initiation is significantly faster if the preceding Down state is dynamic rather than static. Our findings provide a coherent picture of the dependence of SWOs on synaptic activity. KEY POINTS: Cortical neurons can exhibit repeated cycles of spontaneous activity interleaved with periods of relative silence, a phenomenon known as 'slow wave oscillation' (SWO). During SWOs, recordings of local field potentials (LFPs) in the neocortex show depth-negative deflection during the active period (Up state) and depth-positive deflection during the silent period (Down state). Here we further classified the Down state into a dynamic phase and a static phase based on a novel method of classification and revealed non-random, stereotypical sequences of the three states occurring with significantly different transitional kinetics. Our results suggest that the positive and negative deflections in the LFP reflect the shift of the instantaneous balance between excitatory and inhibitory synaptic activity of the local cortical neurons. The differences in transitional kinetics may imply distinct synaptic mechanisms for Up state initiation. The study may provide a new approach for investigating spontaneous brain rhythms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zheng
- School of Biological Sciences, Whiteknights, University of Reading, Reading, UK
- Centre for Integrative Neuroscience and Neurodynamics (CINN), University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - Sungmin Kang
- School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Ingo Bojak
- Centre for Integrative Neuroscience and Neurodynamics (CINN), University of Reading, Reading, UK
- School of Psychology and Clinical Language Science, Whiteknights, University of Reading, Reading, UK
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Schott K, Usher SG, Serra O, Carnevale V, Pless SA, Chua HC. Unplugging lateral fenestrations of NALCN reveals a hidden drug binding site within the pore module. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.04.12.536537. [PMID: 38328210 PMCID: PMC10849497 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.12.536537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The sodium (Na + ) leak channel (NALCN) is a member of the four-domain voltage-gated cation channel family that includes the prototypical voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels (Na V s and Ca V s, respectively). Unlike Na V s and Ca V s, which have four lateral fenestrations that serve as routes for lipophilic compounds to enter the central cavity to modulate channel function, NALCN has bulky residues (W311, L588, M1145 and Y1436) that block these openings. Structural data suggest that oc-cluded lateral fenestrations underlie the pharmacological resistance of NALCN to lipophilic compounds, but functional evidence is lacking. To test this hypothesis, we unplugged the fenestrations of NALCN by substituting the four aforementioned resi-dues with alanine (AAAA) and compared the effects of Na V , Ca V and NALCN block-ers on both wild-type (WT) and AAAA channels. Most compounds behaved in a simi-lar manner on both channels, but phenytoin and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB) elicited additional, distinct responses on AAAA channels. Further experiments using single alanine mutants revealed that phenytoin and 2-APB enter the inner cav-ity through distinct fenestrations, implying structural specificity to their modes of ac-cess. Using a combination of computational and functional approaches, we identified amino acid residues critical for 2-APB activity, supporting the existence of drug bind-ing site(s) within the pore region. Intrigued by the activity of 2-APB and its ana-logues, we tested additional compounds containing the diphenylmethane/amine moiety on WT channels. We identified compounds from existing clinically used drugs that exhibited diverse activity, thus expanding the pharmacological toolbox for NALCN. While the low potencies of active compounds reiterate the resistance of NALCN to pharmacological targeting, our findings lay the foundation for rational drug design to develop NALCN modulators with refined properties. Significance statement The sodium leak channel (NALCN) is essential for survival: mutations cause life-threatening developmental disorders in humans. However, no treatment is currently available due to the resistance of NALCN to pharmacological targeting. One likely reason is that the lateral fenestrations, a common route for clinically used drugs to enter and block related ion channels, are occluded in NALCN. Using a combination of computational and functional approaches, we unplugged the fenestrations of NALCN which led us to the first molecularly defined drug binding site within the pore region. Besides that, we also identified additional NALCN modulators from existing clinically used therapeutics, thus expanding the pharmacological toolbox for this leak channel.
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11
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Bothe MS, Kohl T, Felmy F, Gallant J, Chagnaud BP. Timing and precision of rattlesnake spinal motoneurons are determined by the KV7 2/3 potassium channel. Curr Biol 2024; 34:286-297.e5. [PMID: 38157862 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.11.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The evolution of novel motor behaviors requires modifications in the central pattern generators (CPGs) controlling muscle activity. How such changes gradually lead to novel behaviors remains enigmatic due to the long time course of evolution. Rattlesnakes provide a unique opportunity to investigate how a locomotor CPG was evolutionarily modified to generate a novel behavior-in this case, acoustic signaling. We show that motoneurons (MNs) in the body and tail spinal cord of rattlesnakes possess fundamentally different physiological characteristics, which allow MNs in the tail to integrate and transmit CPG output for controlling superfast muscles with high temporal precision. Using patch-clamp electrophysiology, we demonstrate that these differences in locomotor and rattle MNs are mainly determined by KV72/3 potassium channels. However, although KV72/3 exerted a significantly different influence on locomotor and rattle MN physiology, single-cell RNA-seq unexpectedly did not reveal any differences in KV72/3 channels' expression. VIDEO ABSTRACT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tobias Kohl
- TUM School of Life Science, Technical University of Munich, 85354 Munich, Germany
| | - Felix Felmy
- Institute of Zoology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Jason Gallant
- Department of Integrative Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Boris P Chagnaud
- Institute of Biology, University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; Department of Biology II, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
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12
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Zhang D, Wei Y. Role of sodium leak channel (NALCN) in sensation and pain: an overview. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1349438. [PMID: 38273833 PMCID: PMC10808581 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1349438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The sodium leak channel (NALCN) is widely expressed in the central nervous system and plays a pivotal role in regulating the resting membrane potential (RMP) by mediating the Na+ leak current. NALCN was first reported in 1999, and since then, increasing evidence has provided insights into the structure and functions of NALCN. As an essential component of neuronal background currents, NALCN has been shown to be involved in many important physiological functions, particularly in the respiratory rhythm, as NALCN mutant mice have a severely disrupted respiratory rhythm and die within 24 h of birth. Many patients with NALCN mutations also develop serious clinical syndromes, such as severe hypotonia, speech impairment, and cognitive delay. Recently, emerging studies have clarified the human NALCN structure and revealed additional properties and functions of NALCN. For instance, accumulating evidence highlights that the NALCN is involved in normal sensation and pain. Here, we review the current literature and summarize the role of the NALCN in sensation and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghang Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yiyong Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology, Longgang District Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Shenzhen City (Longgang Maternity and Child Institute of Shantou University Medical College), Shenzhen, China
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13
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Ngodup T, Irie T, Elkins SP, Trussell LO. The Na + leak channel NALCN controls spontaneous activity and mediates synaptic modulation by α2-adrenergic receptors in auditory neurons. eLife 2024; 12:RP89520. [PMID: 38197879 PMCID: PMC10945507 DOI: 10.7554/elife.89520] [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] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Cartwheel interneurons of the dorsal cochlear nucleus (DCN) potently suppress multisensory signals that converge with primary auditory afferent input, and thus regulate auditory processing. Noradrenergic fibers from locus coeruleus project to the DCN, and α2-adrenergic receptors inhibit spontaneous spike activity but simultaneously enhance synaptic strength in cartwheel cells, a dual effect leading to enhanced signal-to-noise for inhibition. However, the ionic mechanism of this striking modulation is unknown. We generated a glycinergic neuron-specific knockout of the Na+ leak channel NALCN in mice and found that its presence was required for spontaneous firing in cartwheel cells. Activation of α2-adrenergic receptors inhibited both NALCN and spike generation, and this modulation was absent in the NALCN knockout. Moreover, α2-dependent enhancement of synaptic strength was also absent in the knockout. GABAB receptors mediated inhibition through NALCN as well, acting on the same population of channels as α2 receptors, suggesting close apposition of both receptor subtypes with NALCN. Thus, multiple neuromodulatory systems determine the impact of synaptic inhibition by suppressing the excitatory leak channel, NALCN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tenzin Ngodup
- Oregon Hearing Research Center and Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
| | - Tomohiko Irie
- Department of Physiology, Kitasato University School of MedicineSagamiharaJapan
| | - Seán P Elkins
- Oregon Hearing Research Center and Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
| | - Laurence O Trussell
- Oregon Hearing Research Center and Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
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14
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Monteil A, Guérineau NC, Gil-Nagel A, Parra-Diaz P, Lory P, Senatore A. New insights into the physiology and pathophysiology of the atypical sodium leak channel NALCN. Physiol Rev 2024; 104:399-472. [PMID: 37615954 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00014.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell excitability and its modulation by hormones and neurotransmitters involve the concerted action of a large repertoire of membrane proteins, especially ion channels. Unique complements of coexpressed ion channels are exquisitely balanced against each other in different excitable cell types, establishing distinct electrical properties that are tailored for diverse physiological contributions, and dysfunction of any component may induce a disease state. A crucial parameter controlling cell excitability is the resting membrane potential (RMP) set by extra- and intracellular concentrations of ions, mainly Na+, K+, and Cl-, and their passive permeation across the cell membrane through leak ion channels. Indeed, dysregulation of RMP causes significant effects on cellular excitability. This review describes the molecular and physiological properties of the Na+ leak channel NALCN, which associates with its accessory subunits UNC-79, UNC-80, and NLF-1/FAM155 to conduct depolarizing background Na+ currents in various excitable cell types, especially neurons. Studies of animal models clearly demonstrate that NALCN contributes to fundamental physiological processes in the nervous system including the control of respiratory rhythm, circadian rhythm, sleep, and locomotor behavior. Furthermore, dysfunction of NALCN and its subunits is associated with severe pathological states in humans. The critical involvement of NALCN in physiology is now well established, but its study has been hampered by the lack of specific drugs that can block or agonize NALCN currents in vitro and in vivo. Molecular tools and animal models are now available to accelerate our understanding of how NALCN contributes to key physiological functions and the development of novel therapies for NALCN channelopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud Monteil
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
- LabEx "Ion Channel Science and Therapeutics," Montpellier, France
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nathalie C Guérineau
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
- LabEx "Ion Channel Science and Therapeutics," Montpellier, France
| | - Antonio Gil-Nagel
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Program, Hospital Ruber Internacional, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paloma Parra-Diaz
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Program, Hospital Ruber Internacional, Madrid, Spain
| | - Philippe Lory
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
- LabEx "Ion Channel Science and Therapeutics," Montpellier, France
| | - Adriano Senatore
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
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15
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Ngodup T, Irie T, Elkins S, Trussell LO. The Na + leak channel NALCN controls spontaneous activity and mediates synaptic modulation by α2-adrenergic receptors in auditory neurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.23.546323. [PMID: 37987013 PMCID: PMC10659375 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.23.546323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Cartwheel interneurons of the dorsal cochlear nucleus (DCN) potently suppress multisensory signals that converge with primary auditory afferent input, and thus regulate auditory processing. Noradrenergic fibers from locus coeruleus project to the DCN, and α2-adrenergic receptors inhibit spontaneous spike activity but simultaneously enhance synaptic strength in cartwheel cells, a dual effect leading to enhanced signal-to-noise for inhibition. However, the ionic mechanism of this striking modulation is unknown. We generated a glycinergic neuron-specific knockout of the Na+ leak channel NALCN, and found that its presence was required for spontaneous firing in cartwheel cells. Activation of α2-adrenergic receptors inhibited both NALCN and spike generation, and this modulation was absent in the NALCN knockout. Moreover, α2-dependent enhancement of synaptic strength was also absent in the knockout. GABAB receptors mediated inhibition through NALCN as well, acting on the same population of channels as α2 receptors, suggesting close apposition of both receptor subtypes with NALCN. Thus, multiple neuromodulatory systems determine the impact of synaptic inhibition by suppressing the excitatory leak channel, NALCN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tenzin Ngodup
- Oregon Hearing Research Center and Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland OR USA
| | - Tomohiko Irie
- Department of Physiology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Sean Elkins
- Oregon Hearing Research Center and Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland OR USA
| | - Laurence O Trussell
- Oregon Hearing Research Center and Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland OR USA
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16
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Cobb-Lewis DE, Sansalone L, Khaliq ZM. Contributions of the Sodium Leak Channel NALCN to Pacemaking of Medial Ventral Tegmental Area and Substantia Nigra Dopaminergic Neurons. J Neurosci 2023; 43:6841-6853. [PMID: 37640554 PMCID: PMC10573758 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0930-22.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
We tested the role of the sodium leak channel, NALCN, in pacemaking of dopaminergic neuron (DAN) subpopulations from adult male and female mice. In situ hybridization revealed NALCN RNA in all DANs, with lower abundance in medial ventral tegmental area (VTA) relative to substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc). Despite lower relative abundance of NALCN, we found that acute pharmacological blockade of NALCN in medial VTA DANs slowed pacemaking by 49.08%. We also examined the electrophysiological properties of projection-defined VTA DAN subpopulations identified by retrograde labeling. Inhibition of NALCN reduced pacemaking in DANs projecting to medial nucleus accumbens (NAc) and others projecting to lateral NAc by 70.74% and 31.98%, respectively, suggesting that NALCN is a primary driver of pacemaking in VTA DANs. In SNc DANs, potentiating NALCN by lowering extracellular calcium concentration speeded pacemaking in wildtype but not NALCN conditional knockout mice, demonstrating functional presence of NALCN. In contrast to VTA DANs, however, pacemaking in SNc DANs was unaffected by inhibition of NALCN. Instead, we found that inhibition of NALCN increased the gain of frequency-current plots at firing frequencies slower than spontaneous firing. Similarly, inhibition of the hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) conductance increased gain but had little effect on pacemaking. Interestingly, simultaneous inhibition of NALCN and HCN resulted in significant reduction in pacemaker rate. Thus, we found NALCN makes substantial contributions to driving pacemaking in VTA DAN subpopulations. In SNc DANs, NALCN is not critical for pacemaking but inhibition of NALCN makes cells more sensitive to hyperpolarizing stimuli.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Pacemaking in midbrain dopaminergic neurons (DAN) relies on multiple subthreshold conductances, including a sodium leak. Whether the sodium leak channel, NALCN, contributes to pacemaking in DANs located in the VTA and the SNc has not yet been determined. Using electrophysiology and pharmacology, we show that NALCN plays a prominent role in driving pacemaking in projection-defined VTA DAN subpopulations. By contrast, pacemaking in SNc neurons does not rely on NALCN. Instead, the presence of NALCN regulates the excitability of SNc DANs by reducing the gain of the neuron's response to inhibitory stimuli. Together, these findings will inform future efforts to obtain DAN subpopulation-specific treatments for use in neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana E Cobb-Lewis
- Cellular Neurophysiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
- Institute for Neuroscience, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC 20037
| | - Lorenzo Sansalone
- Cellular Neurophysiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Zayd M Khaliq
- Cellular Neurophysiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
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17
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Stejerean‐Todoran I, Bogeski I. Malignant currents: sodium leak channel NALCN propels prostate cancer aggressiveness. EMBO J 2023; 42:e114986. [PMID: 37635635 PMCID: PMC10548164 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2023114986] [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: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Although ion transporters and channels have been extensively studied over the last couple of decades, there are still unresolved aspects with regards to their contribution to cancer cell biology. Recent work by Folcher et al (2023) reports a critical role for Na+ leak channel NALCN in metastatic prostate cancer. The study demonstrates that NALCN promotes metastatic spread to distant organs by controlling Ca2+ signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Stejerean‐Todoran
- Molecular Physiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology, University Medical CenterGeorg‐August‐UniversityGöttingenGermany
| | - Ivan Bogeski
- Molecular Physiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology, University Medical CenterGeorg‐August‐UniversityGöttingenGermany
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18
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da Silva CA, Grover CJ, Picardo MCD, Del Negro CA. Role of Na V1.6-mediated persistent sodium current and bursting-pacemaker properties in breathing rhythm generation. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113000. [PMID: 37590134 PMCID: PMC10528911 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113000] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Inspiration is the inexorable active phase of breathing. The brainstem pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC) gives rise to inspiratory neural rhythm, but its underlying cellular and ionic bases remain unclear. The long-standing "pacemaker hypothesis" posits that the persistent Na+ current (INaP) that gives rise to bursting-pacemaker properties in preBötC interneurons is essential for rhythmogenesis. We tested the pacemaker hypothesis by conditionally knocking out and knocking down the Scn8a (Nav1.6 [voltage-gated sodium channel 1.6]) gene in core rhythmogenic preBötC neurons. Deleting Scn8a substantially decreases the INaP and abolishes bursting-pacemaker activity, which slows inspiratory rhythm in vitro and negatively impacts the postnatal development of ventilation. Diminishing Scn8a via genetic interference has no impact on breathing in adult mice. We argue that the Scn8a-mediated INaP is not obligatory but that it influences the development and rhythmic function of the preBötC. The ubiquity of the INaP in respiratory brainstem interneurons could underlie breathing-related behaviors such as neonatal phonation or rhythmogenesis in different physiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos A da Silva
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA
| | - Cameron J Grover
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA
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19
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Petratou D, Gjikolaj M, Kaulich E, Schafer W, Tavernarakis N. A proton-inhibited DEG/ENaC ion channel maintains neuronal ionstasis and promotes neuronal survival under stress. iScience 2023; 26:107117. [PMID: 37416472 PMCID: PMC10320524 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The nervous system participates in the initiation and modulation of systemic stress. Ionstasis is of utmost importance for neuronal function. Imbalance in neuronal sodium homeostasis is associated with pathologies of the nervous system. However, the effects of stress on neuronal Na+ homeostasis, excitability, and survival remain unclear. We report that the DEG/ENaC family member DEL-4 assembles into a proton-inactivated sodium channel. DEL-4 operates at the neuronal membrane and synapse to modulate Caenorhabditis elegans locomotion. Heat stress and starvation alter DEL-4 expression, which in turn alters the expression and activity of key stress-response transcription factors and triggers appropriate motor adaptations. Similar to heat stress and starvation, DEL-4 deficiency causes hyperpolarization of dopaminergic neurons and affects neurotransmission. Using humanized models of neurodegenerative diseases in C. elegans, we showed that DEL-4 promotes neuronal survival. Our findings provide insights into the molecular mechanisms by which sodium channels promote neuronal function and adaptation under stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dionysia Petratou
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology, Heraklion, 70013 Crete, Greece
- Department of Basic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, 71003 Crete, Greece
| | - Martha Gjikolaj
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology, Heraklion, 70013 Crete, Greece
- Department of Basic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, 71003 Crete, Greece
| | - Eva Kaulich
- Neurobiology Division, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, CB2 0QH Cambridge, UK
| | - William Schafer
- Neurobiology Division, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, CB2 0QH Cambridge, UK
| | - Nektarios Tavernarakis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology, Heraklion, 70013 Crete, Greece
- Department of Basic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, 71003 Crete, Greece
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20
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Yang ND, Mellor RL, Hermanstyne TO, Nerbonne JM. Effects of NALCN-Encoded Na + Leak Currents on the Repetitive Firing Properties of SCN Neurons Depend on K +-Driven Rhythmic Changes in Input Resistance. J Neurosci 2023; 43:5132-5141. [PMID: 37339878 PMCID: PMC10342223 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0182-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurons in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) generate circadian changes in the rates of spontaneous action potential firing that regulate and synchronize daily rhythms in physiology and behavior. Considerable evidence suggests that daily rhythms in the repetitive firing rates (higher during the day than at night) of SCN neurons are mediated by changes in subthreshold potassium (K+) conductance(s). An alternative "bicycle" model for circadian regulation of membrane excitability in clock neurons, however, suggests that an increase in NALCN-encoded sodium (Na+) leak conductance underlies daytime increases in firing rates. The experiments reported here explored the role of Na+ leak currents in regulating daytime and nighttime repetitive firing rates in identified adult male and female mouse SCN neurons: vasoactive intestinal peptide-expressing (VIP+), neuromedin S-expressing (NMS+) and gastrin-releasing peptide-expressing (GRP+) cells. Whole-cell recordings from VIP+, NMS+, and GRP+ neurons in acute SCN slices revealed that Na+ leak current amplitudes/densities are similar during the day and at night, but have a larger impact on membrane potentials in daytime neurons. Additional experiments, using an in vivo conditional knockout approach, demonstrated that NALCN-encoded Na+ currents selectively regulate daytime repetitive firing rates of adult SCN neurons. Dynamic clamp-mediated manipulation revealed that the effects of NALCN-encoded Na+ currents on the repetitive firing rates of SCN neurons depend on K+ current-driven changes in input resistances. Together, these findings demonstrate that NALCN-encoded Na+ leak channels contribute to regulating daily rhythms in the excitability of SCN neurons by a mechanism that depends on K+ current-mediated rhythmic changes in intrinsic membrane properties.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Elucidating the ionic mechanisms responsible for generating daily rhythms in the rates of spontaneous action potential firing of neurons in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the master circadian pacemaker in mammals, is an important step toward understanding how the molecular clock controls circadian rhythms in physiology and behavior. While numerous studies have focused on identifying subthreshold K+ channel(s) that mediate day-night changes in the firing rates of SCN neurons, a role for Na+ leak currents has also been suggested. The results of the experiments presented here demonstrate that NALCN-encoded Na+ leak currents differentially modulate daily rhythms in the daytime/nighttime repetitive firing rates of SCN neurons as a consequence of rhythmic changes in subthreshold K+ currents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nien-Du Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
| | | | - Tracey O Hermanstyne
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - Jeanne M Nerbonne
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Division
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
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Folcher A, Gordienko D, Iamshanova O, Bokhobza A, Shapovalov G, Kannancheri‐Puthooru D, Mariot P, Allart L, Desruelles E, Spriet C, Diez R, Oullier T, Marionneau‐Lambot S, Brisson L, Geraci S, Impheng H, Lehen'kyi V, Haustrate A, Mihalache A, Gosset P, Chadet S, Retif S, Laube M, Sobilo J, Lerondel S, Villari G, Serini G, Pla AF, Roger S, Fromont‐Hankard G, Djamgoz M, Clezardin P, Monteil A, Prevarskaya N. NALCN-mediated sodium influx confers metastatic prostate cancer cell invasiveness. EMBO J 2023; 42:e112198. [PMID: 37278161 PMCID: PMC10308360 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2022112198] [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: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
There is growing evidence that ion channels are critically involved in cancer cell invasiveness and metastasis. However, the molecular mechanisms of ion signaling promoting cancer behavior are poorly understood and the complexity of the underlying remodeling during metastasis remains to be explored. Here, using a variety of in vitro and in vivo techniques, we show that metastatic prostate cancer cells acquire a specific Na+ /Ca2+ signature required for persistent invasion. We identify the Na+ leak channel, NALCN, which is overexpressed in metastatic prostate cancer, as a major initiator and regulator of Ca2+ oscillations required for invadopodia formation. Indeed, NALCN-mediated Na+ influx into cancer cells maintains intracellular Ca2+ oscillations via a specific chain of ion transport proteins including plasmalemmal and mitochondrial Na+ /Ca2+ exchangers, SERCA and store-operated channels. This signaling cascade promotes activity of the NACLN-colocalized proto-oncogene Src kinase, actin remodeling and secretion of proteolytic enzymes, thus increasing cancer cell invasive potential and metastatic lesions in vivo. Overall, our findings provide new insights into an ion signaling pathway specific for metastatic cells where NALCN acts as persistent invasion controller.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Folcher
- Inserm U1003, Laboratory of Excellence, Ion Channels Science and Therapeutics, Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, GIS ONCO LilleUniversity of LilleLilleFrance
| | - Dmitri Gordienko
- Inserm U1003, Laboratory of Excellence, Ion Channels Science and Therapeutics, Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, GIS ONCO LilleUniversity of LilleLilleFrance
| | - Oksana Iamshanova
- Inserm U1003, Laboratory of Excellence, Ion Channels Science and Therapeutics, Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, GIS ONCO LilleUniversity of LilleLilleFrance
| | - Alexandre Bokhobza
- Inserm U1003, Laboratory of Excellence, Ion Channels Science and Therapeutics, Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, GIS ONCO LilleUniversity of LilleLilleFrance
| | - George Shapovalov
- Inserm U1003, Laboratory of Excellence, Ion Channels Science and Therapeutics, Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, GIS ONCO LilleUniversity of LilleLilleFrance
| | - Dheeraj Kannancheri‐Puthooru
- Inserm U1003, Laboratory of Excellence, Ion Channels Science and Therapeutics, Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, GIS ONCO LilleUniversity of LilleLilleFrance
| | - Pascal Mariot
- Inserm U1003, Laboratory of Excellence, Ion Channels Science and Therapeutics, Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, GIS ONCO LilleUniversity of LilleLilleFrance
| | - Laurent Allart
- Inserm U1003, Laboratory of Excellence, Ion Channels Science and Therapeutics, Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, GIS ONCO LilleUniversity of LilleLilleFrance
| | - Emilie Desruelles
- Inserm U1003, Laboratory of Excellence, Ion Channels Science and Therapeutics, Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, GIS ONCO LilleUniversity of LilleLilleFrance
| | - Corentin Spriet
- TISBio, Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle (UGSF), CNRS, UMR 8576Université de LilleLilleFrance
| | - Raquel Diez
- Cell Physiology Research Group, Department of PhysiologyUniversity of ExtremaduraCáceresSpain
| | | | | | - Lucie Brisson
- Inserm UMR1069, Nutrition Croissance et CancerUniversity of ToursToursFrance
| | - Sandra Geraci
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Inserm UMR 1033 LYOSLyonFrance
| | - Hathaichanok Impheng
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical scienceNaresuan UniversityPhitsanulokThailand
| | - V'yacheslav Lehen'kyi
- Inserm U1003, Laboratory of Excellence, Ion Channels Science and Therapeutics, Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, GIS ONCO LilleUniversity of LilleLilleFrance
| | - Aurélien Haustrate
- Inserm U1003, Laboratory of Excellence, Ion Channels Science and Therapeutics, Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, GIS ONCO LilleUniversity of LilleLilleFrance
| | - Adriana Mihalache
- Service d'Anatomie et de Cytologie PathologiquesGroupement des Hôpitaux de l'Université Catholique de LilleLilleFrance
| | - Pierre Gosset
- Service d'Anatomie et de Cytologie PathologiquesGroupement des Hôpitaux de l'Université Catholique de LilleLilleFrance
| | - Stéphanie Chadet
- EA4245 Transplantation, Immunology, InflammationUniversity of ToursToursFrance
| | - Stéphanie Retif
- PHENOMIN‐TAAM, CNRS UPS44, Centre d'Imagerie du Petit Animal (CIPA), 3B rue de la FérollerieOrléansFrance
| | - Maryline Laube
- PHENOMIN‐TAAM, CNRS UPS44, Centre d'Imagerie du Petit Animal (CIPA), 3B rue de la FérollerieOrléansFrance
| | - Julien Sobilo
- PHENOMIN‐TAAM, CNRS UPS44, Centre d'Imagerie du Petit Animal (CIPA), 3B rue de la FérollerieOrléansFrance
| | - Stéphanie Lerondel
- PHENOMIN‐TAAM, CNRS UPS44, Centre d'Imagerie du Petit Animal (CIPA), 3B rue de la FérollerieOrléansFrance
| | - Giulia Villari
- Department of OncologyUniversity of Torino School of MedicineCandioloItaly
- Candiolo Cancer Institute – Fondazione del Piemonte per l'Oncologia (FPO), Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS)CandioloItaly
| | - Guido Serini
- Department of OncologyUniversity of Torino School of MedicineCandioloItaly
- Candiolo Cancer Institute – Fondazione del Piemonte per l'Oncologia (FPO), Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS)CandioloItaly
| | | | - Sébastien Roger
- EA4245 Transplantation, Immunology, InflammationUniversity of ToursToursFrance
| | - Gaelle Fromont‐Hankard
- Inserm UMR1069, Nutrition Croissance et CancerUniversity of ToursToursFrance
- Department of PathologyCHRU de ToursToursFrance
| | - Mustafa Djamgoz
- Department of Life SciencesImperial College LondonLondonUK
- Biotechnology Research CentreCyprus International UniversityMersinTürkiye
| | - Philippe Clezardin
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Inserm UMR 1033 LYOSLyonFrance
| | - Arnaud Monteil
- LabEx “Ion Channel Science and Therapeutics”, IGF, CNRS, INSERMUniversity of MontpellierMontpellierFrance
| | - Natalia Prevarskaya
- Inserm U1003, Laboratory of Excellence, Ion Channels Science and Therapeutics, Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, GIS ONCO LilleUniversity of LilleLilleFrance
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22
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Hashemi B, Huntsman RJ, Li H, Zhang D, Xi Y. New presentation of CLIFAHDD syndrome with a novel variant in NALCN gene: A report of a rare case. Clin Case Rep 2023; 11:e7647. [PMID: 37469362 PMCID: PMC10352546 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.7647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Key Clinical Message Congenital Contractures of Limbs and Face, Hypotonia, and Developmental Delay (CLIFAHDD) syndrome is a recently described type of distal arthrogryposis which unlike other subtypes is associated with developmental delay and various neurologic presentation. Epilepsy and ataxia have been reported. We add paroxysmal dyskinesia to the clinical spectrum. Understanding the molecular mechanism can help developing targeted therapy in future. Abstract This study resulted in identification of a novel variant in NALCN gene leading to autosomal dominant CLIFAHDD syndrome. Our patient presented with a form of nonepileptic paroxysmal dyskinesia. This is a new phenotype that has not been described previously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bita Hashemi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical GeneticsUniversity of SaskatchewanSaskatoonSaskatchewanCanada
| | - Richard J. Huntsman
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of NeurologyUniversity of SaskatchewanSaskatoonSaskatchewanCanada
| | - Huan Li
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and SciencesSaint Louis UniversitySaint LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Dapeng Zhang
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and SciencesSaint Louis UniversitySaint LouisMissouriUSA
- Program of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, College of Arts and SciencesSaint Louis UniversitySaint LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Yanwei Xi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Genomics LaboratoryUniversity of SaskatchewanSaskatoonSaskatchewanCanada
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23
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Al-Mazidi S, Al-Ayadhi L, Alqahtany F, Abualnaja A, Alzarroug A, Alharbi T, Farhat K, AlMnaizel A, El-Ansary A. The possible role of sodium leakage channel localization factor-1 in the pathophysiology and severity of autism spectrum disorders. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9747. [PMID: 37328585 PMCID: PMC10275888 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36953-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social, stereotypical, and repetitive behaviors. Neural dysregulation was proposed as an etiological factor in ASD. The sodium leakage channel (NCA), regulated by NLF-1 (NCA localization factor-1), has a major role in maintaining the physiological excitatory function of neurons. We aimed to examine the level of NLF-1 in ASD children and correlate it with the severity of the disease. We examined the plasma levels of NLF-1 in 80 ASD and neurotypical children using ELISA. The diagnosis and severity of ASD were based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV), Childhood Autism Rating Score, Social Responsiveness Scale, and Short Sensory Profile. Then, we compared the levels of NLF-1 with the severity of the disease and behavioral and sensory symptoms. Our results showed a significant decrease in the plasma levels of NLF-1 in ASD children compared to neurotypical children (p < 0.001). Additionally, NLF-1 was significantly correlated with the severity of the behavioral symptoms of ASD (p < 0.05). The low levels of NLF-1 in ASD children potentially affect the severity of their behavioral symptoms by reducing neuron excitability through NCA. These novel findings open a new venue for pharmacological and possible genetic research involving NCA in ASD children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Al-Mazidi
- Physiology Department, College of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, P.O.Box: 5701, Riyadh, 11432, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Laila Al-Ayadhi
- Physiology, King Saud University College of Medicine, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Autism Research and Treatment Center, King Saud University College of Medicine, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatmah Alqahtany
- Hematopathology Unit, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amani Abualnaja
- College of Medicine, Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Alzarroug
- College of Medicine, Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Turki Alharbi
- College of Medicine, Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Karim Farhat
- Cancer Research Chair, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad AlMnaizel
- Research office, John Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afaf El-Ansary
- Autism Research and Treatment Center, King Saud University College of Medicine, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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24
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Chung CJ, Hermes BM, Gupta Y, Ibrahim S, Belheouane M, Baines JF. Genome-wide mapping of gene-microbe interactions in the murine lung microbiota based on quantitative microbial profiling. Anim Microbiome 2023; 5:31. [PMID: 37264412 DOI: 10.1186/s42523-023-00250-y] [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: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mammalian lungs comprise a complex microbial ecosystem that interacts with host physiology. Previous research demonstrates that the environment significantly contributes to bacterial community structure in the upper and lower respiratory tract. However, the influence of host genetics on the makeup of lung microbiota remains ambiguous, largely due to technical difficulties related to sampling, as well as challenges inherent to investigating low biomass communities. Thus, innovative approaches are warranted to clarify host-microbe interactions in the mammalian lung. RESULTS Here, we aimed to characterize host genomic regions associated with lung bacterial traits in an advanced intercross mouse line (AIL). By performing quantitative microbial profiling (QMP) using the highly precise method of droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), we refined 16S rRNA gene amplicon-based traits to identify and map candidate lung-resident taxa using a QTL mapping approach. In addition, the two abundant core taxa Lactobacillus and Pelomonas were chosen for independent microbial phenotyping using genus-specific primers. In total, this revealed seven significant loci involving eight bacterial traits. The narrow confidence intervals afforded by the AIL population allowed us to identify several promising candidate genes related to immune and inflammatory responses, cell apoptosis, DNA repair, and lung functioning and disease susceptibility. Interestingly, one genomic region associated with Lactobacillus abundance contains the well-known anti-inflammatory cytokine Il10, which we confirmed through the analysis of Il10 knockout mice. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides the first evidence for a role of host genetic variation contributing to variation in the lung microbiota. This was in large part made possible through the careful curation of 16S rRNA gene amplicon data and the incorporation of a QMP-based methods. This approach to evaluating the low biomass lung environment opens new avenues for advancing lung microbiome research using animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Chung
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology, August-Thienemann-Str. 2, 24306, Plön, Germany
- Section of Evolutionary Medicine, Institute for Experimental Medicine, Kiel University, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - B M Hermes
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology, August-Thienemann-Str. 2, 24306, Plön, Germany
- Section of Evolutionary Medicine, Institute for Experimental Medicine, Kiel University, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Y Gupta
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - S Ibrahim
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Meriem Belheouane
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology, August-Thienemann-Str. 2, 24306, Plön, Germany.
- Section of Evolutionary Medicine, Institute for Experimental Medicine, Kiel University, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, 24105, Kiel, Germany.
- Research Center Borstel, Evolution of the Resistome, Leibniz Lung Center, Parkallee 1-40, 23845, Borstel, Germany.
| | - John F Baines
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology, August-Thienemann-Str. 2, 24306, Plön, Germany.
- Section of Evolutionary Medicine, Institute for Experimental Medicine, Kiel University, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, 24105, Kiel, Germany.
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25
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Copeland DS, Gugel A, Gantz SC. Potentiation of neuronal activity by tonic GluD1 current in brain slices. EMBO Rep 2023:e56801. [PMID: 37154294 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202356801] [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: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Ion channel function of native delta glutamate receptors (GluDR ) is incompletely understood. Previously, we and others have shown that activation of Gαq protein-coupled receptors (GqPCR) produces a slow inward current carried by GluD1R . GluD1R also carries a tonic cation current of unknown cause. Here, using voltage-clamp electrophysiological recordings from adult mouse brain slices containing the dorsal raphe nucleus, we find no role of ongoing G-protein-coupled receptor activity in generating or sustaining tonic GluD1R currents. Neither augmentation nor disruption of G protein activity affects tonic GluD1R currents, suggesting that ongoing G-protein-coupled receptor activity does not give rise to tonic GluD1R currents. Further, the tonic GluD1R current is unaffected by the addition of external glycine or D-serine, which influences GluD2R current at millimolar concentrations. Instead, GqPCR-stimulated and tonic GluD1R currents are regulated by physiological levels of external calcium. In current-clamp recordings, block of GluD1R channels hyperpolarizes the membrane by ~7 mV at subthreshold potentials, reducing excitability. Thus, GluD1R carries a G-protein-independent tonic current that contributes to subthreshold neuronal excitation in the dorsal raphe nucleus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S Copeland
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Aleigha Gugel
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Stephanie C Gantz
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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26
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Ragozzino FJ, Peterson B, Karatsoreos IN, Peters JH. Circadian regulation of glutamate release pathways shapes synaptic throughput in the brainstem nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS). J Physiol 2023; 601:1881-1896. [PMID: 36975145 PMCID: PMC10192157 DOI: 10.1113/jp284370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Circadian regulation of autonomic reflex pathways pairs physiological function with the daily light cycle. The brainstem nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) is a key candidate for rhythmic control of the autonomic nervous system. Here we investigated circadian regulation of NTS neurotransmission and synaptic throughput using patch-clamp electrophysiology in brainstem slices from mice. We found that spontaneous quantal glutamate release onto NTS neurons showed strong circadian rhythmicity, with the highest rate of release during the light phase and the lowest in the dark, that were sufficient to drive day/night differences in constitutive postsynaptic action potential firing. In contrast, afferent evoked action potential throughput was enhanced during the dark and diminished in the light. Afferent-driven synchronous release pathways showed a similar decrease in release probability that did not explain the enhanced synaptic throughput during the night. However, analysis of postsynaptic membrane properties revealed diurnal changes in conductance, which, when coupled with the circadian changes in glutamate release pathways, tuned synaptic throughput between the light and dark phases. These coordinated pre-/postsynaptic changes encode nuanced control over synaptic performance and pair NTS action potential firing and vagal throughput with time of day. KEY POINTS: Vagal afferent neurons relay information from peripheral organs to the brainstem nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) to initiate autonomic reflex pathways as well as providing important controls of food intake, digestive function and energy balance. Vagally mediated reflexes and behaviours are under strong circadian regulation. Diurnal fluctuations in presynaptic vesicle release pathways and postsynaptic membrane conductances provide nuanced control over NTS action potential firing and vagal synaptic throughput. Coordinated pre-/postsynaptic changes represent a fundamental mechanism mediating daily changes in vagal afferent signalling and autonomic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Forrest J. Ragozzino
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - BreeAnne Peterson
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Ilia N. Karatsoreos
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
| | - James H. Peters
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
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27
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Wang J, Yang Y, Liu J, Qiu J, Zhang D, Ou M, Kang Y, Zhu T, Zhou C. Loss of sodium leak channel (NALCN) in the ventral dentate gyrus impairs neuronal activity of the glutamatergic neurons for inflammation-induced depression in male mice. Brain Behav Immun 2023; 110:13-29. [PMID: 36796706 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The dentate gyrus (DG) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of depression. Many studies have revealed the cellular types, neural circuits, and morphological changes of the DG involved in the development of depression. However, the molecular regulating its intrinsic activity in depression is unknown. METHODS Utilizing the mode of depression induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), we investigate the involvement of the sodium leak channel (NALCN) in inflammation-induced depressive-like behaviors of male mice. The expression of NALCN was detected by immunohistochemistry and real-time polymerase chain reaction. DG microinjection of the adeno-associated virus or lentivirus was carried out using a stereotaxic instrument and followed by behavioral tests. Neuronal excitability and NALCN conductance were recorded by whole-cell patch-clamp techniques. RESULTS The expression and function of NALCN were reduced in both the dorsal and ventral DG in LPS-treated mice; whereas, only knocking down NALCN in the ventral pole produced depressive-like behaviors and this effect of NALCN was specific to ventral glutamatergic neurons. The excitability of ventral glutamatergic neurons was impaired by both the knockdown of NALCN and/or the treatment of LPS. Then, the overexpression of NALCN in the ventral glutamatergic neurons decreased the susceptibility of mice to inflammation-induced depression, and the intracranial injection of substance P (non-selective NALCN activator) into the ventral DG rapidly ameliorated inflammation-induced depression-like behaviors in an NALCN-dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS NALCN, which drives the neuronal activity of the ventral DG glutamatergic neurons, uniquely regulates depressive-like behaviors and susceptibility to depression. Therefore, the NALCN of glutamatergic neurons in the ventral DG may present a molecular target for rapid antidepressant drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinping Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yaoxin Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jingxuan Qiu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Donghang Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Mengchan Ou
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yi Kang
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Tao Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Cheng Zhou
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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28
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Yackle K. Transformation of Our Understanding of Breathing Control by Molecular Tools. Annu Rev Physiol 2023; 85:93-113. [PMID: 36323001 PMCID: PMC9918693 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-physiol-021522-094142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
The rhythmicity of breath is vital for normal physiology. Even so, breathing is enriched with multifunctionality. External signals constantly change breathing, stopping it when under water or deepening it during exertion. Internal cues utilize breath to express emotions such as sighs of frustration and yawns of boredom. Breathing harmonizes with other actions that use our mouth and throat, including speech, chewing, and swallowing. In addition, our perception of breathing intensity can dictate how we feel, such as during the slow breathing of calming meditation and anxiety-inducing hyperventilation. Heartbeat originates from a peripheral pacemaker in the heart, but the automation of breathing arises from neural clusters within the brainstem, enabling interaction with other brain areas and thus multifunctionality. Here, we document how the recent transformation of cellular and molecular tools has contributed to our appreciation of the diversity of neuronal types in the breathing control circuit and how they confer the multifunctionality of breathing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Yackle
- Department of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA;
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29
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Bauer J, Devinsky O, Rothermel M, Koch H. Autonomic dysfunction in epilepsy mouse models with implications for SUDEP research. Front Neurol 2023; 13:1040648. [PMID: 36686527 PMCID: PMC9853197 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1040648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy has a high prevalence and can severely impair quality of life and increase the risk of premature death. Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is the leading cause of death in drug-resistant epilepsy and most often results from respiratory and cardiac impairments due to brainstem dysfunction. Epileptic activity can spread widely, influencing neuronal activity in regions outside the epileptic network. The brainstem controls cardiorespiratory activity and arousal and reciprocally connects to cortical, diencephalic, and spinal cord areas. Epileptic activity can propagate trans-synaptically or via spreading depression (SD) to alter brainstem functions and cause cardiorespiratory dysfunction. The mechanisms by which seizures propagate to or otherwise impair brainstem function and trigger the cascading effects that cause SUDEP are poorly understood. We review insights from mouse models combined with new techniques to understand the pathophysiology of epilepsy and SUDEP. These techniques include in vivo, ex vivo, invasive and non-invasive methods in anesthetized and awake mice. Optogenetics combined with electrophysiological and optical manipulation and recording methods offer unique opportunities to study neuronal mechanisms under normal conditions, during and after non-fatal seizures, and in SUDEP. These combined approaches can advance our understanding of brainstem pathophysiology associated with seizures and SUDEP and may suggest strategies to prevent SUDEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Bauer
- Department of Epileptology and Neurology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany,Institute for Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Orrin Devinsky
- Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry, NYU Langone School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Markus Rothermel
- Institute for Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Henner Koch
- Department of Epileptology and Neurology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany,*Correspondence: Henner Koch ✉
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30
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Hahn S, Um KB, Kim SW, Kim HJ, Park MK. Proximal dendritic localization of NALCN channels underlies tonic and burst firing in nigral dopaminergic neurons. J Physiol 2023; 601:171-193. [PMID: 36398712 DOI: 10.1113/jp283716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In multipolar nigral dopamine (DA) neurons, the highly excitable proximal dendritic compartments (PDCs) and two Na+ -permeable leak channels, TRPC3 and NALCN, play a key role in pacemaking. However, the causal link between them is unknown. Here we report that the proximal dendritic localization of NALCN underlies pacemaking and burst firing in DA neurons. Our morphological analysis of nigral DA neurons reveals that TRPC3 is ubiquitously expressed in the whole somatodendritic compartment, but NALCN is localized within the PDCs. Blocking either TRPC3 or NALCN channels abolished pacemaking. However, only blocking NALCN, not TRPC3, degraded burst discharges. Furthermore, local glutamate uncaging readily induced burst discharges within the PDCs, compared with other parts of the neuron, and NALCN channel inhibition dissipated burst generation, indicating the importance of NALCN to the high excitability of PDCs. Therefore, we conclude that PDCs serve as a common base for tonic and burst firing in nigral DA neurons. KEY POINTS: Midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons are slow pacemakers that can generate tonic and burst firings, and the highly excitable proximal dendritic compartments (PDCs) and two Na+ -permeable leak channels, TRPC3 and NALCN, play a key role in pacemaking. We find that slow tonic firing depends on the basal activity of both the NALCN and TRPC3 channels, but that burst firing does not require TRPC3 channels but relies only on NALCN channels. We find that TRPC3 is ubiquitously expressed in the entire somatodendritic compartment, but that NALCN exists only within the PDCs in nigral DA neurons. We show that NALCN channel localization confers high excitability on PDCs and is essential for burst generation in nigral DA neurons. These results suggest that PDCs serve as a common base for tonic and burst firing in nigral DA neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyun Hahn
- Department of Physiology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Ki Bum Um
- Department of Physiology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - So Woon Kim
- Department of Physiology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
| | - Hyun Jin Kim
- Department of Physiology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea.,Samsung Medical Center, Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul, Korea
| | - Myoung Kyu Park
- Department of Physiology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea.,Samsung Medical Center, Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul, Korea
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31
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He J, Xu J, Chang Z, Yan J, Zhang L, Qin Y. NALCN is a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in human cancers. Front Genet 2023; 14:1164707. [PMID: 37152978 PMCID: PMC10154523 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1164707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Sodium leak channel non-selective (NALCN), known as a voltage-independent Na+ channel, is increasingly considered to play vital roles in tumorigenesis and metastasis of human cancers. However, no comprehensive pan-cancer analysis of NALCN has been conducted. Our study aims to explore the potential diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic value of NALCN in human cancers. Methods: Through comprehensive application of datasets from Human Protein Atlas (HPA), The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE), Enhanced Version of Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER2.0), Tumor and Immune System Interaction Database (TISIDB), The University of Alabama at Birmingham Cancer data analysis Portal (UALCAN), cBioPortal, GeneMANIA and Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interaction Gene/Proteins (STRING) databases, we explored the potential roles of NALCN in different cancers. The differential expression, prognostic implications, pathological stages and grades, molecular and immune subtypes, diagnostic accuracy, tumor mutation burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI), mismatch repair (MMR) genes, immune checkpoint genes, chemokine genes, major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-related genes, tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs), promoter methylation, mutations, copy number alteration (CNA), and functional enrichment related to NALCN were analyzed. Results: Most cancers lowly expressed NALCN. Upregulated NALCN expression was associated with poor or better prognosis in different cancers. Moreover, NALCN was correlated with clinicopathological features in multiple cancers. NALCN showed high diagnostic accuracy in 5 caner types. NALCN is highly linked with immune-related biomarkers, immune-related genes and TIICs. Significant methylation changes and genetic alteration of NALCN can be observed in many cancers. Enrichment analysis showed that NALCN is closely related to multiple tumor-related signaling pathways. Conclusion: Our study revealed the vital involvement of NALCN in cancer. NALCN can be used as a prognostic biomarker for immune infiltration and clinical outcomes, and has potential diagnostic and therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian He
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jie Xu
- School of Public Health, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Zhiwei Chang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiaqin Yan
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Limin Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yanru Qin
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yanru Qin,
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Rahrmann EP, Shorthouse D, Jassim A, Hu LP, Ortiz M, Mahler-Araujo B, Vogel P, Paez-Ribes M, Fatemi A, Hannon GJ, Iyer R, Blundon JA, Lourenço FC, Kay J, Nazarian RM, Hall BA, Zakharenko SS, Winton DJ, Zhu L, Gilbertson RJ. The NALCN channel regulates metastasis and nonmalignant cell dissemination. Nat Genet 2022; 54:1827-1838. [PMID: 36175792 PMCID: PMC9729110 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-022-01182-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We identify the sodium leak channel non-selective protein (NALCN) as a key regulator of cancer metastasis and nonmalignant cell dissemination. Among 10,022 human cancers, NALCN loss-of-function mutations were enriched in gastric and colorectal cancers. Deletion of Nalcn from gastric, intestinal or pancreatic adenocarcinomas in mice did not alter tumor incidence, but markedly increased the number of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and metastases. Treatment of these mice with gadolinium-a NALCN channel blocker-similarly increased CTCs and metastases. Deletion of Nalcn from mice that lacked oncogenic mutations and never developed cancer caused shedding of epithelial cells into the blood at levels equivalent to those seen in tumor-bearing animals. These cells trafficked to distant organs to form normal structures including lung epithelium, and kidney glomeruli and tubules. Thus, NALCN regulates cell shedding from solid tissues independent of cancer, divorcing this process from tumorigenesis and unmasking a potential new target for antimetastatic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric P Rahrmann
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - David Shorthouse
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
| | - Amir Jassim
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Linda P Hu
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Mariaestela Ortiz
- Molecular Pharmacology Lab, Organoid Models Research and Biology, National Cancer Institute, Leidos Biomedical Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Betania Mahler-Araujo
- Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Histopathology Core, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter Vogel
- Veterinary Pathology Core Laboratory, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Marta Paez-Ribes
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Atefeh Fatemi
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Gregory J Hannon
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Radhika Iyer
- Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jay A Blundon
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Filipe C Lourenço
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jonathan Kay
- Departments of Medicine and of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School and UMass Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Rosalynn M Nazarian
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Pathology Service, Dermatopathology Unit, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Benjamin A Hall
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
| | - Stanislav S Zakharenko
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Douglas J Winton
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Liqin Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Richard J Gilbertson
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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Li M, Liu Z, Lai K, Liu H, Gong L, Shi H, Zhang W, Wang H, Shi H. Enhanced recruitment of glutamate receptors underlies excitotoxicity of mitral cells in acute hyperammonemia. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:1002671. [DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.1002671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE)–a major complication of liver disease–has been found to increase the risk of olfactory dysfunction, which may be attributed to elevated levels of ammonia/ammonium in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid. However, the cellular mechanisms underlying hyperammonemia-induced olfactory dysfunction remain unclear. By performing patch-clamp recordings of mitral cells (MCs) in the mouse olfactory bulb (OB), we found that 3 mM ammonium (NH4+) increased the spontaneous firing frequency and attenuated the amplitude, but synaptic blockers could prevent the changes, suggesting the important role of glutamate receptors in NH4+-induced hyperexcitability of MCs. We also found NH4+ reduced the currents of voltage-gated K+ channel (Kv), which may lead to the attenuation of spontaneous firing amplitude by NH4+. Further studies demonstrated NH4+ enhanced the amplitude and integral area of long-lasting spontaneous excitatory post-synaptic currents (sEPSCs) in acute OB slices. This enhancement of excitatory neurotransmission in MCs occurred independently of pre-synaptic glutamate release and re-uptake, and was prevented by the exocytosis inhibitor TAT-NSF700. In addition, an NH4+-induced increasement in expression of NR1 and GluR1 was detected on cytoplasmic membrane, indicating that increased trafficking of glutamate receptors on membrane surface in MCs is the core mechanism. Moreover, NH4+-induced enhanced activity of glutamate receptors in acute OB slices caused cell death, which was prevented by antagonizing glutamate receptors or chelating intracellular calcium levels. Our study demonstrates that the enhancement of the activity and recruitment of glutamate receptor directly induces neuronal excitotoxicity, and contributes to the vulnerability of OB to acute hyperammonemia, thus providing a potential pathological mechanism of olfactory defects in patients with hyperammonemia and HE.
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Maselli K, Park H, Breilyn MS, Arens R. Severe central sleep apnea in a child with biallelic variants in NALCN. J Clin Sleep Med 2022; 18:2507-2513. [PMID: 35808948 PMCID: PMC9516572 DOI: 10.5664/jcsm.10146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The sodium leak channel, nonselective (NALCN), is necessary for the proper function of the neurons that play an important role in the sleep-wake cycle and regulation of breathing patterns during wakefulness and sleep. We report a 38-month-old male with developmental delay, hypotonia, and severe central sleep apnea with periodic breathing requiring noninvasive ventilation during sleep, who was found to have novel biallelic pathogenic variants in NALCN. A review of the literature illustrates 17 additional children with biallelic variants in the NALCN gene. The clinical and sleep manifestations of these children are discussed. CITATION Maselli K, Park H, Breilyn MS, Arens R. Severe central sleep apnea in a child with biallelic variants in NALCN. J Clin Sleep Med. 2022;18(10):2507-2513.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Maselli
- Sleep Wake Disorders Center, Department of Neurology, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Hyunbin Park
- Division of Pediatric Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Margo Sheck Breilyn
- Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, The Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York
| | - Raanan Arens
- Division of Pediatric Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
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35
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Singh P, Agrawal N, Maurya RK, Moirangthem A. Novel variant c.1838A>G, p.(Gln613Arg) in NALCNcauses camptodactyly and cognitive delay. Clin Dysmorphol 2022; 31:206-210. [PMID: 36094358 DOI: 10.1097/mcd.0000000000000431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Parshw Singh
- Department of Medical Genetics, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
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36
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Pathophysiology of Diverticular Disease: From Diverticula Formation to Symptom Generation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23126698. [PMID: 35743141 PMCID: PMC9223421 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Diverticular disease is a common clinical problem, particularly in industrialized countries. In most cases, colonic diverticula remain asymptomatic throughout life and sometimes are found incidentally during colonic imaging in colorectal cancer screening programs in otherwise healthy subjects. Nonetheless, roughly 25% of patients bearing colonic diverticula develop clinical manifestations. Abdominal symptoms associated with diverticula in the absence of inflammation or complications are termed symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease (SUDD). The pathophysiology of diverticular disease as well as the mechanisms involved in the shift from an asymptomatic condition to a symptomatic one is still poorly understood. It is accepted that both genetic factors and environment, as well as intestinal microenvironment alterations, have a role in diverticula development and in the different phenotypic expressions of diverticular disease. In the present review, we will summarize the up-to-date knowledge on the pathophysiology of diverticula and their different clinical setting, including diverticulosis and SUDD.
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37
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Kang Y, Chen L. Structure and mechanism of NALCN-FAM155A-UNC79-UNC80 channel complex. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2639. [PMID: 35550517 PMCID: PMC9098444 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30403-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
NALCN channel mediates sodium leak currents and is important for maintaining proper resting membrane potential. NALCN and FAM155A form the core complex of the channel, the activity of which essentially depends on the presence of both UNC79 and UNC80, two auxiliary proteins. NALCN, FAM155A, UNC79, and UNC80 co-assemble into a large hetero-tetrameric channel complex. Genetic mutations of NALCN channel components lead to neurodevelopmental diseases. However, the structure and mechanism of the intact channel complex remain elusive. Here, we present the cryo-EM structure of the mammalian NALCN-FAM155A-UNC79-UNC80 quaternary complex. The structure shows that UNC79-UNC80 form a large piler-shaped heterodimer which was tethered to the intracellular side of the NALCN channel through tripartite interactions with the cytoplasmic loops of NALCN. Two interactions are essential for proper cell surface localization of NALCN. The other interaction relieves the self-inhibition of NALCN by pulling the auto-inhibitory CTD Interacting Helix (CIH) out of its binding site. Our work defines the structural mechanism of NALCN modulation by UNC79 and UNC80.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunlu Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, College of Future Technology, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking. University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiometabolic Molecular Medicine, Beijing, 100871, China.,National Biomedical Imaging Center, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Lei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, College of Future Technology, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking. University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Cardiometabolic Molecular Medicine, Beijing, 100871, China. .,National Biomedical Imaging Center, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China. .,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China. .,Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
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38
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Zhou C, Zhou Q, He X, He Y, Wang X, Zhu X, Zhang Y, Ma L. Differential modulation of C. elegans motor behavior by NALCN and two-pore domain potassium channels. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010126. [PMID: 35482723 PMCID: PMC9049526 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Two-pore domain potassium channels (K2P) are a large family of “background” channels that allow outward “leak” of potassium ions. The NALCN/UNC80/UNC79 complex is a non-selective channel that allows inward flow of sodium and other cations. It is unclear how K2Ps and NALCN differentially modulate animal behavior. Here, we found that loss of function (lf) in the K2P gene twk-40 suppressed the reduced body curvatures of C. elegans NALCN(lf) mutants. twk-40(lf) caused a deep body curvature and extended backward locomotion, and these phenotypes appeared to be associated with neuron-specific expression of twk-40 and distinct twk-40 transcript isoforms. To survey the functions of other less studied K2P channels, we examined loss-of-function mutants of 13 additional twk genes expressed in the motor circuit and detected defective body curvature and/or locomotion in mutants of twk-2, twk-17, twk-30, twk-48, unc-58, and the previously reported twk-7. We generated presumptive gain-of-function (gf) mutations in twk-40, twk-2, twk-7, and unc-58 and found that they caused paralysis. Further analyses detected variable genetic interactions between twk-40 and other twk genes, an interdependence between twk-40 and twk-2, and opposite behavioral effects between NALCN and twk-2, twk-7, or unc-58. Finally, we found that the hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity property of TWK-40 residue 159 could affect the channel activity. Together, our study identified twk-40 as a novel modulator of the motor behavior, uncovered potential behavioral effects of five other K2P genes and suggests that NALCN and some K2Ps can oppositely affect C. elegans behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanman Zhou
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qian Zhou
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaohui He
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yunxia He
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaoqin Wang
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaowei Zhu
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yujia Zhang
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Long Ma
- Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Molecular Precision Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
NALCN regulates the resting membrane potential by mediating the Na+ leak current in neurons, and it functions as a channelosome in complex with FAM155A, UNC79, and UNC80. Dysfunction of the NALCN channelosome causes a broad range of neurological and developmental diseases called NALCN channelopathies in humans. How the auxiliary subunits, especially the two large components UNC79 and UNC80, assemble with NALCN and regulate its function remains unclear. Here we report an overall architecture of the human NALCN channelosome. UNC79 and UNC80 each adopt an S-shape super-helical structure consisting of HEAT and armadillo repeats, forming a super-coiled heterodimeric assembly in the cytoplasmic side, which may provide a scaffold for the binding of other potential modulators of the channelosome. The UNC79-UNC80 assembly specifically associates with the NALCN-FAM155A subcomplex through the intracellular II-III linker of NALCN. Disruptions of the interaction interfaces between UNC79 and UNC80, and between the II-III linker of NALCN and the UNC79-UNC80 assembly, significantly reduce the NALCN-mediated currents in HEK293T system, suggesting the importance of the UNC79-UNC80 assembly in regulating channelosome function. Cross-linking mass spectrometry analysis identified an additional calmodulin (CaM) bound in the carboxyl-terminal domain of NALCN. Our study thus provides a structural basis for understanding the unique assembly mechanism and functional regulation of the NALCN channelosome, and also provides an opportunity for the interpretation of many disease-related mutations in UNC80.
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40
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Sheardown E, Mech AM, Petrazzini MEM, Leggieri A, Gidziela A, Hosseinian S, Sealy IM, Torres-Perez JV, Busch-Nentwich EM, Malanchini M, Brennan CH. Translational relevance of forward genetic screens in animal models for the study of psychiatric disease. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 135:104559. [PMID: 35124155 PMCID: PMC9016269 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Psychiatric disorders represent a significant burden in our societies. Despite the convincing evidence pointing at gene and gene-environment interaction contributions, the role of genetics in the etiology of psychiatric disease is still poorly understood. Forward genetic screens in animal models have helped elucidate causal links. Here we discuss the application of mutagenesis-based forward genetic approaches in common animal model species: two invertebrates, nematodes (Caenorhabditis elegans) and fruit flies (Drosophila sp.); and two vertebrates, zebrafish (Danio rerio) and mice (Mus musculus), in relation to psychiatric disease. We also discuss the use of large scale genomic studies in human populations. Despite the advances using data from human populations, animal models coupled with next-generation sequencing strategies are still needed. Although with its own limitations, zebrafish possess characteristics that make them especially well-suited to forward genetic studies exploring the etiology of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Sheardown
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK
| | - Aleksandra M Mech
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK
| | | | - Adele Leggieri
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK
| | - Agnieszka Gidziela
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK
| | - Saeedeh Hosseinian
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK
| | - Ian M Sealy
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID), Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jose V Torres-Perez
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Imperial College London and Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, 86 Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Elisabeth M Busch-Nentwich
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK
| | - Margherita Malanchini
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK
| | - Caroline H Brennan
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, England, UK.
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41
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Yu B, Wang Y, Gao S. Motor Rhythm Dissection From the Backward Circuit in C. elegans. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:845733. [PMID: 35370545 PMCID: PMC8966088 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.845733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor rhythm is initiated and sustained by oscillatory neuronal activity. We recently discovered that the A-class excitatory motor neurons (MNs) (A-MNs) function as intrinsic oscillators. They drive backward locomotion by generating rhythmic postsynaptic currents (rPSCs) in body wall muscles. Molecular underpinning of the rPSCs, however, is not fully elucidated. We report here that there are three types of the rPSC patterns, namely the phasic, tonic, and long-lasting, each with distinct kinetics and channel-dependence. The Na+ leak channel is required for all rPSC patterns. The tonic rPSCs exhibit strong dependence on the high-voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. Three K+ channels, the BK-type Ca2+-activated K+ channel, Na+-activated K+ channel, and voltage-gated K+ channel (Kv4), primarily inhibit tonic and long-lasting rPSCs with varying degrees and preferences. The elaborate regulation of rPSCs by different channels, through increasing or decreasing the rPSCs frequency and/or charge, correlates with the changes in the reversal velocity for respective channel mutants. The molecular dissection of different A-MNs-rPSC components therefore reveals different mechanisms for multiplex motor rhythm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Yu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ya Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shangbang Gao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Shangbang Gao,
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Structural architecture of the human NALCN channelosome. Nature 2022; 603:180-186. [PMID: 34929720 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-021-04313-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Depolarizing sodium (Na+) leak currents carried by the NALCN channel regulate the resting membrane potential of many neurons to modulate respiration, circadian rhythm, locomotion and pain sensitivity1-8. NALCN requires FAM155A, UNC79 and UNC80 to function, but the role of these auxiliary subunits is not understood3,7,9-12. NALCN, UNC79 and UNC80 are essential in rodents2,9,13, and mutations in human NALCN and UNC80 cause severe developmental and neurological disease14,15. Here we determined the structure of the NALCN channelosome, an approximately 1-MDa complex, as fundamental aspects about the composition, assembly and gating of this channelosome remain obscure. UNC79 and UNC80 are massive HEAT-repeat proteins that form an intertwined anti-parallel superhelical assembly, which docks intracellularly onto the NALCN-FAM155A pore-forming subcomplex. Calmodulin copurifies bound to the carboxy-terminal domain of NALCN, identifying this region as a putative modulatory hub. Single-channel analyses uncovered a low open probability for the wild-type complex, highlighting the tightly closed S6 gate in the structure, and providing a basis to interpret the altered gating properties of disease-causing variants. Key constraints between the UNC79-UNC80 subcomplex and the NALCN DI-DII and DII-DIII linkers were identified, leading to a model of channelosome gating. Our results provide a structural blueprint to understand the physiology of the NALCN channelosome and a template for drug discovery to modulate the resting membrane potential.
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Winczewska-Wiktor A, Hirschfeld AS, Badura-Stronka M, Wojsyk-Banaszak I, Sobkowiak P, Bartkowska-Śniatkowska A, Babak V, Steinborn B. Central Apneas Due to the CLIFAHDD Syndrome Successfully Treated with Pyridostigmine. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19020775. [PMID: 35055596 PMCID: PMC8776169 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19020775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
NALCN mutations lead to complex neurodevelopmental syndromes, including infantile hypotonia with psychomotor retardation and characteristic facies (IHPRF) and congenital contractures of limbs and face, hypotonia, and developmental delay (CLIFAHDD), which are recessively and dominantly inherited, respectively. We present a patient in whom congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS) was suspected due to the occurrence of hypotonia and apnea episodes requiring resuscitation. For this reason, treatment with pyridostigmine was introduced. After starting the treatment, a significant improvement was observed in reducing the apnea episodes and slight psychomotor progress. In the course of further diagnostics, CMS was excluded, and CLIFAHDD syndrome was confirmed. Thus, we try to explain a possible mechanism of clinical improvement after the introduction of treatment with pyridostigmine in a patient with a mutation in the NALCN gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Winczewska-Wiktor
- Chair and Department of Developmental Neurology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Przybyszewskiego 49, 60-355 Poznan, Poland;
- Correspondence:
| | - Adam Sebastian Hirschfeld
- Chair and Department of Medical Genetics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-352 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.H.); (M.B.-S.); (V.B.)
| | - Magdalena Badura-Stronka
- Chair and Department of Medical Genetics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-352 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.H.); (M.B.-S.); (V.B.)
- Centers of Medical Genetics GENESIS, 60-529 Poznan, Poland
| | - Irena Wojsyk-Banaszak
- Department of Pulmonology, Pediatric Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-572 Poznan, Poland; (I.W.-B.); (P.S.)
| | - Paulina Sobkowiak
- Department of Pulmonology, Pediatric Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-572 Poznan, Poland; (I.W.-B.); (P.S.)
| | - Alicja Bartkowska-Śniatkowska
- Department of Pediatric Anesthesiology and Intensive Therapy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-572 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Valeriia Babak
- Chair and Department of Medical Genetics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-352 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.H.); (M.B.-S.); (V.B.)
| | - Barbara Steinborn
- Chair and Department of Developmental Neurology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Przybyszewskiego 49, 60-355 Poznan, Poland;
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44
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Morris CE, Wheeler JJ, Joos B. The Donnan-dominated resting state of skeletal muscle fibers contributes to resilience and longevity in dystrophic fibers. J Gen Physiol 2022; 154:212743. [PMID: 34731883 PMCID: PMC8570295 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202112914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked dystrophin-minus muscle-wasting disease. Ion homeostasis in skeletal muscle fibers underperforms as DMD progresses. But though DMD renders these excitable cells intolerant of exertion, sodium overloaded, depolarized, and spontaneously contractile, they can survive for several decades. We show computationally that underpinning this longevity is a strikingly frugal, robust Pump-Leak/Donnan (P-L/D) ion homeostatic process. Unlike neurons, which operate with a costly “Pump-Leak–dominated” ion homeostatic steady state, skeletal muscle fibers operate with a low-cost “Donnan-dominated” ion homeostatic steady state that combines a large chloride permeability with an exceptionally small sodium permeability. Simultaneously, this combination keeps fiber excitability low and minimizes pump expenditures. As mechanically active, long-lived multinucleate cells, skeletal muscle fibers have evolved to handle overexertion, sarcolemmal tears, ischemic bouts, etc.; the frugality of their Donnan dominated steady state lets them maintain the outsized pump reserves that make them resilient during these inevitable transient emergencies. Here, P-L/D model variants challenged with DMD-type insult/injury (low pump-strength, overstimulation, leaky Nav and cation channels) show how chronic “nonosmotic” sodium overload (observed in DMD patients) develops. Profoundly severe DMD ion homeostatic insult/injury causes spontaneous firing (and, consequently, unwanted excitation–contraction coupling) that elicits cytotoxic swelling. Therefore, boosting operational pump-strength and/or diminishing sodium and cation channel leaks should help extend DMD fiber longevity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine E Morris
- Neuroscience, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada.,Center for Neural Dynamics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | | | - Béla Joos
- Center for Neural Dynamics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Department of Physics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
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45
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Liao Z, Liu Y, Wang Y, Lu Q, Peng Y, Liu Q. Case Report: A de novo Variant in NALCN Associated With CLIFAHDD Syndrome in a Chinese Infant. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:927392. [PMID: 35911839 PMCID: PMC9326163 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.927392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The NALCN encodes a sodium ion leak channel that regulates nerve-resting conductance and excitability. NALCN variants are associated with two neurodevelopmental disorders, one is CLIFAHDD (autosomal dominant congenital contractures of the limbs and face, hypotonia, and developmental delay, OMIM #616266) and another is IHPRF (infantile hypotonia with psychomotor retardation, and characteristic facies 1, OMIM #615419). CASE PRESENTATION In the current study, a Chinese infant that manifested abnormal facial features, adducted thumbs, and neurodevelopmental retardation was diagnosed with CLIFAHDD syndrome. A trio-based whole-exome sequencing revealed that the infant harbored a de novo variant of the NALCN gene (c.4300A>G, p.I1434V). CONCLUSIONS Our findings further enriched the variant spectrum of the NALCN gene and may expand the clinical range of NALCN-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu Liao
- Neonatology Department of Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Yali Liu
- Neonatology Department of Changsha Country Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Yimin Wang
- GeneMind Biosciences Company Limited, ShenZhen, China.,College of Pharmacy, Xiangnan University, Chenzhou, China
| | - Qin Lu
- College of Pharmacy, Xiangnan University, Chenzhou, China.,GeneTalks Biotech Co., Ltd., Changsha, China
| | - Yu Peng
- Pediatrics Research Institute of Hunan Province, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Qingsong Liu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China
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46
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Ferreira JJ, Amazu C, Puga-Molina LC, Ma X, England SK, Santi CM. SLO2.1/NALCN a sodium signaling complex that regulates uterine activity. iScience 2021; 24:103210. [PMID: 34746693 PMCID: PMC8551532 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Depolarization of the myometrial smooth muscle cell (MSMC) resting membrane potential is necessary for the uterus to transition from a quiescent state to a contractile state. The molecular mechanisms involved in this transition are not completely understood. Here, we report that a coupled system between the Na+-activated K+ channel (SLO2.1) and the non-selective Na+ leak channel (NALCN) determines the MSMC membrane potential. Our data indicate that Na+ entering through NALCN acts as an intracellular signaling molecule that activates SLO2.1. Potassium efflux through SLO2.1 hyperpolarizes the membrane. A decrease in SLO2.1/NALCN activity induces membrane depolarization, triggering Ca2+ entry through voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels and promoting contraction. Consistent with functional coupling, our data show that NALCN and SLO2.1 are in close proximity in human MSMCs. We propose that these arrangements of SLO2.1 and NALCN permit these channels to functionally regulate MSMC membrane potential and cell excitability and modulate uterine contractility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan J. Ferreira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, 425 S. Euclid Avenue, CB 8064, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Chinwendu Amazu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, 425 S. Euclid Avenue, CB 8064, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Lis C. Puga-Molina
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, 425 S. Euclid Avenue, CB 8064, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Xiaofeng Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, 425 S. Euclid Avenue, CB 8064, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Sarah K. England
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, 425 S. Euclid Avenue, CB 8064, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Celia M. Santi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, 425 S. Euclid Avenue, CB 8064, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
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47
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Tao Y, Han D, Wei Y, Wang L, Song W, Li X. Case Report: Complete Maternal Uniparental Disomy of Chromosome 2 With a Novel UNC80 Splicing Variant c.5609-4G> A in a Chinese Patient With Infantile Hypotonia With Psychomotor Retardation and Characteristic Facies 2. Front Genet 2021; 12:747422. [PMID: 34594366 PMCID: PMC8476880 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.747422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Infantile hypotonia with psychomotor retardation and characteristic facies 2 (IHPRF2) is a rare autosomal recessive neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the UNC80 gene. It is characterized by severe global developmental delay, poor or absent speech and absent or limited walking abilities. The current study explored a case of a Chinese patient with IHPRF2 caused by a novel splicing variant of UNC80. Case Report: The proband is a 8-year-old Chinese male manifested with global developmental delay, severe truncal hypotonia, absent speech and intellectual disability. SNP array analysis revealed a uniparental isodisomy of the entire chromosome 2 [UPD(2)] in the proband. Whole exome sequencing (WES) subsequently identified a novel mutation c.5609-4G>A in the UNC80 gene, which was inherited from his mother and was confirmed by Sanger sequencing, indicating that UPD(2) was of maternal origin. Conclusion: A novel UNC80 homozygous splicing variant c.5609-4G>A associated with maternal UPD(2) was identified. These findings indicate that UPD poses a high risk of autosomal recessive diseases, and provides information on the variant spectrum for UNC80. Our findings elucidate on understanding of the genotype-phenotype associations that occur in IHPRF2 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilun Tao
- Medical Genetic Center, Changzhi Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changzhi, China
| | - Dong Han
- Medical Genetic Center, Changzhi Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changzhi, China
| | - Yiju Wei
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State Health Hershey Medical Center, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Lihong Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Changzhi Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changzhi, China
| | - Wenxia Song
- Obstetrics Department, Changzhi Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changzhi, China
| | - Xiaoze Li
- Medical Genetic Center, Changzhi Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changzhi, China
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48
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Sodium background currents in endocrine/neuroendocrine cells: Towards unraveling channel identity and contribution in hormone secretion. Front Neuroendocrinol 2021; 63:100947. [PMID: 34592201 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2021.100947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In endocrine/neuroendocrine tissues, excitability of secretory cells is patterned by the repertoire of ion channels and there is clear evidence that extracellular sodium (Na+) ions contribute to hormone secretion. While voltage-gated channels involved in action potential generation are well-described, the background 'leak' channels operating near the resting membrane potential are much less known, and in particular the channels supporting a background entry of Na+ ions. These background Na+ currents (called here 'INab') have the ability to modulate the resting membrane potential and subsequently affect action potential firing. Here we compile and analyze the data collected from three endocrine/neuroendocrine tissues: the anterior pituitary gland, the adrenal medulla and the endocrine pancreas. We also model how INab can be functionally involved in cellular excitability. Finally, towards deciphering the physiological role of INab in endocrine/neuroendocrine cells, its implication in hormone release is also discussed.
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49
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Li J, Chen Y, Liu J, Zhang D, Liang P, Lu P, Shen J, Miao C, Zuo Y, Zhou C. Elevated Expression and Activity of Sodium Leak Channel Contributes to Neuronal Sensitization of Inflammatory Pain in Rats. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:723395. [PMID: 34512260 PMCID: PMC8430348 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.723395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory pain encompasses many clinical symptoms, and there is no satisfactory therapeutic target. Neuronal hyperexcitability and/or sensitization of the primary nociceptive neurons in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and spinal dorsal horn are critical to the development and maintenance of inflammatory pain. The sodium leak channel (NALCN), a non-selective cation channel, mediates the background Na+ leak conductance and controls neuronal excitability. It is unknown whether abnormal activity of NALCN mediates the pathological process of inflammatory pain. Complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) was injected into the left footpad of rats to induce inflammatory pain. The thresholds of mechanical and thermal sensation and spontaneous pain behaviors were assessed. The expression of NALCN in DRG and spinal dorsal cord was measured. NALCN currents and the contribution of NALCN to neuronal excitability in the DRG and spinal dorsal cord were recorded using whole-cell patch-clamping recording. NALCN was abundantly expressed in neurons of the DRG and spinal dorsal cord. In acutely isolated DRG neurons and spinal cord slices from rats with CFA-induced inflammatory pain, NALCN currents and neuronal excitability were increased. Subsequently, intrathecal and sciatic nerve injection of NALCN-small interfering RNA (siRNA) decreased NALCN mRNA and reverted NALCN currents to normal levels, and then reduced CFA-induced neuronal excitability and alleviated pain symptoms. Furthermore, pain-related symptoms were significantly prevented by the NALCN-shRNA-mediated NALCN knockdown in DRG and spinal cord. Therefore, increased expression and activity of NALCN contributed to neuronal sensitization in CFA-induced inflammatory pain. NALCN may be a novel molecular target for the control of inflammatory pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Laboratory of Anaesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Translational Neuroscience Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, Xi'an Jiaotong University-Affiliated Honghui Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Yali Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Laboratory of Anaesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Translational Neuroscience Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Laboratory of Anaesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Translational Neuroscience Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Donghang Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Laboratory of Anaesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Translational Neuroscience Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Peng Liang
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Peilin Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiefei Shen
- Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases and Department of Prosthodontics, West China Stomatology Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Changhong Miao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunxia Zuo
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Laboratory of Anaesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Translational Neuroscience Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Cheng Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Laboratory of Anaesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Translational Neuroscience Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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50
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Zhang D, Liu J, Zhu T, Zhou C. Identifying c-fos Expression as a Strategy to Investigate the Actions of General Anesthetics on the Central Nervous System. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 20:55-71. [PMID: 34503426 PMCID: PMC9199548 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666210909150200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Although general anesthetics have been used in the clinic for more than 170 years, the ways in which they induce amnesia, unconsciousness, analgesia, and immobility remain elusive. Modulations of various neural nuclei and circuits are involved in the actions of general anesthetics. The expression of the immediate-early gene c-fos and its nuclear product, c-fos protein, can be induced by neuronal depolarization; therefore, c-fos staining is commonly used to identify the activated neurons during sleep and/or wakefulness, as well as in various physiological conditions in the central nervous system. Identifying c-fos expression is also a direct and convenient method to explore the effects of general anesthetics on the activity of neural nuclei and circuits. Using c-fos staining, general anesthetics have been found to interact with sleep- and wakefulness-promoting systems throughout the brain, which may explain their ability to induce unconsciousness and emergence from general anesthesia. This review summarizes the actions of general anesthetics on neural nuclei and circuits based on a c-fos expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghang Zhang
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041. China
| | - Jin Liu
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041. China
| | - Tao Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041. China
| | - Cheng Zhou
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041. China
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