1
|
Wei X, Iao WC, Zhang Y, Lin Z, Lin H. Retinal Microvasculature Causally Affects the Brain Cortical Structure: A Mendelian Randomization Study. OPHTHALMOLOGY SCIENCE 2024; 4:100465. [PMID: 39149712 PMCID: PMC11324828 DOI: 10.1016/j.xops.2024.100465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Purpose To reveal the causality between retinal vascular density (VD), fractal dimension (FD), and brain cortex structure using Mendelian randomization (MR). Design Cross-sectional study. Participants Genome-wide association studies of VD and FD involving 54 813 participants from the United Kingdom Biobank were used. The brain cortical features, including the cortical thickness (TH) and surface area (SA), were extracted from 51 665 patients across 60 cohorts. Surface area and TH were measured globally and in 34 functional regions using magnetic resonance imaging. Methods Bidirectional univariable MR (UVMR) was used to detect the causality between FD, VD, and brain cortex structure. Multivariable MR (MVMR) was used to adjust for confounding factors, including body mass index and blood pressure. Main Outcome Measures The global and regional measurements of brain cortical SA and TH. Results At the global level, higher VD is related to decreased TH (β = -0.0140 mm, 95% confidence interval: -0.0269 mm to -0.0011 mm, P = 0.0339). At the functional level, retinal FD is related to the TH of banks of the superior temporal sulcus and transverse temporal region without global weighted, as well as the SA of the posterior cingulate after adjustment. Vascular density is correlated with the SA of subregions of the frontal lobe and temporal lobe, in addition to the TH of the inferior temporal, entorhinal, and pars opercularis regions in both UVMR and MVMR. Bidirectional MR studies showed a causation between the SA of the parahippocampal and cauda middle frontal gyrus and retinal VD. No pleiotropy was detected. Conclusions Fractal dimension and VD causally influence the cortical structure and vice versa, indicating that the retinal microvasculature may serve as a biomarker for cortex structural changes. Our study provides insights into utilizing noninvasive fundus images to predict cortical structural deteriorations and neuropsychiatric disorders. Financial Disclosures The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyue Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Precision Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wai Cheng Iao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Precision Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zijie Lin
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Haotian Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Center for Precision Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Hainan Eye Hospital and Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Huang Y, Yang D, Liao S, Guan X, Zhou F, Liu Y, Wang Y, Zhang Y. Ginsenoside Rg1 protects the blood-brain barrier and myelin sheath to prevent postoperative cognitive dysfunction in aged mice. Neuroreport 2024; 35:925-935. [PMID: 39166417 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000002083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
In this study, the postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) mouse model was established to observe the changes in inflammation, blood-brain barrier permeability, and myelin sheath, and we explore the effect of ginsenoside Rg1 pretreatment on improving POCD syndrome. The POCD model of 15- to 18-month-old mice was carried out with internal fixation of tibial fractures under isoflurane anesthesia. Pretreatment was performed by continuous intraperitoneal injection of ginsenoside Rg1(40 mg/kg/day) for 14 days before surgery. The cognitive function was detected by the Morris water maze. The contents of interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α in the hippocampus, cortex, and serum were detected by ELISA. The permeability of blood-brain barrier was observed by Evans blue. The mRNA levels and protein expression levels of 2',3'-cyclic nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase (CNPase), myelin basic protein (MBP), beta-catenin, and cyclin D1 in the hippocampus were analyzed by quantitative PCR and western blotting. The protein expression levels of ZO-1 and Wnt1 in the hippocampus were analyzed by western blotting. Finally, the localizations of CNPase and MBP in the hippocampus were detected by immunofluorescence. Ginsenoside Rg1 can prevent POCD, peripheral and central inflammation, and blood-brain barrier leakage, and reverse the downregulation of ZO-1, CNPase, MBP, and Wnt pathway-related molecules in aged mice. Preclinical studies suggest that ginsenoside Rg1 improves postoperative cognitive function in aged mice by protecting the blood-brain barrier and myelin sheath, and its specific mechanism may be related to the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Hospital, Southwest Medical University
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University
| | - Dianping Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University
| | - Sijing Liao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University
| | - Xilin Guan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University
| | - Feiran Zhou
- Department of Pain, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Hospital, Southwest Medical University
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University
- Department of Anesthesiology, Heiiang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Grätz L, Voss JH, Schulte G. Class-Wide Analysis of Frizzled-Dishevelled Interactions Using BRET Biosensors Reveals Functional Differences among Receptor Paralogs. ACS Sens 2024; 9:4626-4636. [PMID: 39213612 PMCID: PMC11443525 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.4c00806] [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] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Wingless/Int-1 (WNT) signaling is mediated by WNT binding to 10 Frizzleds (FZD1-10), which propagate the signal inside the cell by interacting with different transducers, most prominently the phosphoprotein Dishevelled (DVL). Despite recent progress, questions about WNT/FZD selectivity and paralog-dependent differences in the FZD/DVL interaction remain unanswered. Here, we present a class-wide analysis of the FZD/DVL interaction using the DEP domain of DVL as a proxy in bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) techniques. Most FZDs engage in a constitutive high-affinity interaction with DEP. Stimulation of unimolecular FZD/DEP BRET sensors with different ligands revealed that most paralogs are dynamic in the FZD/DEP interface, showing distinct profiles in terms of ligand selectivity and signal kinetics. This study underlines mechanistic differences in terms of how allosteric communication between FZDs and their main signal transducer DVL occurs. Moreover, the unimolecular sensors represent the first receptor-focused biosensors to surpass the requirements for high-throughput screening, facilitating FZD-targeted drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Grätz
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Biomedicum, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan H Voss
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Biomedicum, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Schulte
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Section of Receptor Biology & Signaling, Biomedicum, Karolinska Institutet, S-17165 Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Qian Y, Ma Z, Xu Z, Duan Y, Xiong Y, Xia R, Zhu X, Zhang Z, Tian X, Yin H, Liu J, Song J, Lu Y, Zhang A, Guo C, Jin L, Kim WJ, Ke J, Xu F, Huang Z, He Y. Structural basis of Frizzled 4 in recognition of Dishevelled 2 unveils mechanism of WNT signaling activation. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7644. [PMID: 39223191 PMCID: PMC11369211 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-52174-z] [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: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
WNT signaling is fundamental in development and homeostasis, but how the Frizzled receptors (FZDs) propagate signaling remains enigmatic. Here, we present the cryo-EM structure of FZD4 engaged with the DEP domain of Dishevelled 2 (DVL2), a key WNT transducer. We uncover a distinct binding mode where the DEP finger-loop inserts into the FZD4 cavity to form a hydrophobic interface. FZD4 intracellular loop 2 (ICL2) additionally anchors the complex through polar contacts. Mutagenesis validates the structural observations. The DEP interface is highly conserved in FZDs, indicating a universal mechanism by which FZDs engage with DVLs. We further reveal that DEP mimics G-protein/β-arrestin/GRK to recognize an active conformation of receptor, expanding current GPCR engagement models. Finally, we identify a distinct FZD4 dimerization interface. Our findings delineate the molecular determinants governing FZD/DVL assembly and propagation of WNT signaling, providing long-sought answers underlying WNT signal transduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Qian
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Zhengxiong Ma
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Zhenmei Xu
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Yaning Duan
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Yangjie Xiong
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Ruixue Xia
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Xinyan Zhu
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Zongwei Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Xinyu Tian
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Han Yin
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Jing Song
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Yang Lu
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Anqi Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Changyou Guo
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Lihua Jin
- Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Woo Jae Kim
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Jiyuan Ke
- Institute of Health and Medicine, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, China
| | - Fei Xu
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiwei Huang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Yuanzheng He
- Laboratory of Receptor Structure and Signaling, HIT Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Qiu P, Chang Y, Chen X, Wang S, Nie H, Hong Y, Zhang M, Wang H, Xiao C, Chen Y, Liu L, Zhao Q. Dihydroartemisinin Modulates Enteric Glial Cell Heterogeneity to Alleviate Colitis. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2403461. [PMID: 38992955 PMCID: PMC11425232 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202403461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
The precise mechanism underlying the therapeutic effects of dihydroartemisinin (DHA) in alleviating colitis remains incompletely understood. A strong correlation existed between the elevation of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)+/S100 calcium binding protein B (S100β)+ enteric glial cells (EGCs) in inflamed colonic tissues and the disruption of the intestinal epithelial barrier (IEB) and gut vascular barrier (GVB) observed in chronic colitis. DHA demonstrated efficacy in restoring the functionality of the dual gut barrier while concurrently attenuating intestinal inflammation. Mechanistically, DHA inhibited the transformation of GFAP+ EGCs into GFAP+/S100β+ EGCs while promoting the differentiation of GFAP+/S100β+ EGCs back into GFAP+ EGCs. Furthermore, DHA induced apoptosis in GFAP+/S100β+ EGCs by inducing cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. The initial mechanism is further validated that DHA regulates EGC heterogeneity by improving dysbiosis in colitis. These findings underscore the multifaceted therapeutic potential of DHA in ameliorating colitis by improving dysbiosis, modulating EGC heterogeneity, and preserving gut barrier integrity, thus offering promising avenues for novel therapeutic strategies for inflammatory bowel diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peishan Qiu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center & Key Lab of Intestinal & Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Ying Chang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center & Key Lab of Intestinal & Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Xiaoyu Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center & Key Lab of Intestinal & Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Shaoqi Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center & Key Lab of Intestinal & Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Haihang Nie
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center & Key Lab of Intestinal & Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yuntian Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center & Key Lab of Intestinal & Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center & Key Lab of Intestinal & Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Haizhou Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center & Key Lab of Intestinal & Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Cong Xiao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center & Key Lab of Intestinal & Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yuhua Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center & Key Lab of Intestinal & Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Lan Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center & Key Lab of Intestinal & Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Qiu Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Clinical Center & Key Lab of Intestinal & Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, 430071, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Okamoto M, Matsushita I, Nagata T, Fujino Y, Kondo H. Angiographic Characteristics in Mild Familial Exudative Vitreoretinopathy with Genetically Confirmed Autosomal Dominant Inheritance. Ophthalmol Retina 2024:S2468-6530(24)00399-3. [PMID: 39197492 DOI: 10.1016/j.oret.2024.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the ultra-widefield fluorescein angiographic (UWFA) characteristics of patients with mild familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) who had been confirmed to have pathogenic variants of the autosomal dominant (AD) genes of FEVR. DESIGN Single center, observational case series. SUBJECTS AND CONTROLS Thirty-seven patients with mild FEVR from 27 families who had pathogenic variants of the Norrin/β-catenin genes were studied. The controls consisted of 32 family members who had been confirmed not to carry the pathogenic variants or had heterozygous variants of the autosomal recessive inheritance gene. METHODS Sixty-four UWFA images from the patients were compared with 60 UWFA images from the controls. The relative length of the temporal retina to the peripheral avascular retina was determined. The cut-off ratio of the relative lengths for a clinically significant avascular retina (csAR) associated with AD-FEVR was determined using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The presence or absence of 6 peripheral vascular changes (csAR, V-shaped vascular notch, brushy vascular ends, vascular stain, loop vessels or anastomosis, and capillary telangiectasia) were compared between the patients and the controls. RESULTS The csAR was set at > 12% of the length from the ora serrata to the optic disc. The patients with AD-FEVR had more frequent retinal changes than the controls for the V-shaped vascular notch (69% vs. 2%; P < 0.001), brushy vascular ends (78% vs. 3%; P < 0.001), csAR (83% vs. 22%; P < 0.001), and vascular stain (70% vs. 35%, P < 0.001). Loop vessels and/or anastomosis of peripheral vessels were found significantly less frequently in the patients than in the controls (39% vs. 73%; P < 0.001). No significant difference was found for capillary telangiectasia between the 2 groups. The combination of the V-shaped vascular notches, brushy vascular ends, and csAR had a sensitivity of 82.8% and specificity of 98.3%, with the highest ROC curve of 0.9. CONCLUSIONS The combination of V-shaped vascular notch, brushy vascular ends, and csAR can be used as a biomarker for patients with AD-FEVR who have pathogenic variants of the Norrin/β-catenin genes. These findings will allow more accurate segregation analysis in FEVR families and allow better genetic counseling. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Misato Okamoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan; Department of Ophthalmology, Kyushu University Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Itsuka Matsushita
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Nagata
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Fujino
- Department of Environmental Epidemiology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kondo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hatch K, Lischka F, Wang M, Xu X, Stimpson CD, Barvir T, Cramer NP, Perl DP, Yu G, Browne CA, Dickstein DL, Galdzicki Z. The role of microglia in neuronal and cognitive function during high altitude acclimatization. Sci Rep 2024; 14:18981. [PMID: 39152179 PMCID: PMC11329659 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-69694-9] [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: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Due to their interactions with the neurovasculature, microglia are implicated in maladaptive responses to hypobaric hypoxia at high altitude (HA). To explore these interactions at HA, pharmacological depletion of microglia with the colony-stimulating factor-1 receptor inhibitor, PLX5622, was employed in male C57BL/6J mice maintained at HA or sea level (SL) for 3-weeks, followed by assessment of ex-vivo hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP), fear memory recall and microglial dynamics/physiology. Our findings revealed that microglia depletion decreased LTP and reduced glucose levels by 25% at SL but did not affect fear memory recall. At HA, the absence of microglia did not significantly alter HA associated deficits in fear memory or HA mediated decreases in peripheral glucose levels. In regard to microglial dynamics in the cortex, HA enhanced microglial surveillance activity, ablation of microglia resulted in increased chemotactic responses and decreased microglia tip proliferation during ball formation. In contrast, vessel ablation increased cortical microglia tip path tortuosity. In the hippocampus, changes in microglial dynamics were only observed in response to vessel ablation following HA. As the hippocampus is critical for learning and memory, poor hippocampal microglial context-dependent adaptation may be responsible for some of the enduring neurological deficits associated with HA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Hatch
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc. (HJF), 6720A Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD, 20817, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Fritz Lischka
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc. (HJF), 6720A Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD, 20817, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Mengfan Wang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Virginia Tech, Arlington, VA, USA
| | - Xiufen Xu
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc. (HJF), 6720A Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD, 20817, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Cheryl D Stimpson
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc. (HJF), 6720A Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD, 20817, USA
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Tara Barvir
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc. (HJF), 6720A Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD, 20817, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Nathan P Cramer
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc. (HJF), 6720A Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD, 20817, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 W. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Daniel P Perl
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Guoqiang Yu
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Virginia Tech, Arlington, VA, USA
| | - Caroline A Browne
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc. (HJF), 6720A Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD, 20817, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Dara L Dickstein
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc. (HJF), 6720A Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD, 20817, USA
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Zygmunt Galdzicki
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhang Y, Shen X, Deng S, Chen Q, Xu B. Neural Regulation of Vascular Development: Molecular Mechanisms and Interactions. Biomolecules 2024; 14:966. [PMID: 39199354 PMCID: PMC11353022 DOI: 10.3390/biom14080966] [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: 07/18/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
As a critical part of the circulatory system, blood vessels transport oxygen and nutrients to every corner of the body, nourishing each cell, and also remove waste and toxins. Defects in vascular development and function are closely associated with many diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, and atherosclerosis. In the nervous system, the nervous and vascular systems are intricately connected in both development and function. First, peripheral blood vessels and nerves exhibit parallel distribution patterns. In the central nervous system (CNS), nerves and blood vessels form a complex interface known as the neurovascular unit. Second, the vascular system employs similar cellular and molecular mechanisms as the nervous system for its development. Third, the development and function of CNS vasculature are tightly regulated by CNS-specific signaling pathways and neural activity. Additionally, vascular endothelial cells within the CNS are tightly connected and interact with pericytes, astrocytes, neurons, and microglia to form the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The BBB strictly controls material exchanges between the blood and brain, maintaining the brain's microenvironmental homeostasis, which is crucial for the normal development and function of the CNS. Here, we comprehensively summarize research on neural regulation of vascular and BBB development and propose directions for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Xinyu Shen
- School of Life Sciences, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Shunze Deng
- School of Life Sciences, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Qiurong Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Bing Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zheng S, Sheng R. The emerging understanding of Frizzled receptors. FEBS Lett 2024; 598:1939-1954. [PMID: 38744670 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14903] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The Wnt signaling pathway is a huge network governing development and homeostasis, dysregulation of which is associated with a myriad of human diseases. The Frizzled receptor (FZD) family comprises receptors for Wnt ligands, which indispensably mediate Wnt signaling jointly with a variety of co-receptors. Studies of FZDs have revealed that 10 FZD subtypes play diverse roles in physiological processes. At the same time, dysregulation of FZDs is also responsible for various diseases, in particular human cancers. Enormous attention has been paid to the molecular understanding and targeted therapy of FZDs in the past decade. In this review, we summarize the latest research on FZD structure, function, regulation and targeted therapy, providing a basis for guiding future research in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaoqin Zheng
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ren Sheng
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rao F, Cao J, Wang C, Xiang S, Wu K, Lin D, Lv J, Wang X, Wang M, Xiang L. Overexpression of miR-96 leads to retinal degeneration in mice. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 719:150048. [PMID: 38763044 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.150048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Double knockout of miR-183 and miR-96 results in retinal degeneration in mice; however, single knockout of miR-96 leads to developmental delay but not substantial retinal degeneration. To further explore the role of miR-96, we overexpressed this miRNA in mouse retinas. Interestingly, we found that overexpression of miR-96 at a safe dose results in retinal degeneration in the mouse retina. The retinal photoreceptors dramatically degenerated in the miR-96-overexpressing group, as shown by OCT, ERG and cryosectioning at one month after subretinal injection. Degenerative features such as TUNEL signals and reactive gliosis were observed in the miR-96-overexpressing retina. RNA-seq data revealed that immune responses and microglial activation occurred in the degenerating retina. Further qRT‒PCR and immunostaining experiments verified the microglial activation. Moreover, the number of microglia in the miR-96-overexpressing retinas was significantly increased. Our findings demonstrate that appropriate miR-96 expression is required for mouse retinal homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fengqin Rao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai 317000, China; Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; College of Nursing, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Jianbin Cao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai 317000, China
| | - Chenyu Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health & Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shengjin Xiang
- Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Kunchao Wu
- Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China; Department of Ophthalmology, The First People's Hospital of Guiyang, China
| | - Dan Lin
- Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Jineng Lv
- Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Xiaojie Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
| | - Mingcang Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai 317000, China.
| | - Lue Xiang
- Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Qin L, Liu Z, Guo S, Han Y, Wang X, Ren W, Chen J, Zhen H, Nie C, Xing KK, Chen T, Südhof TC, Sun Y, Zhang B. Astrocytic Neuroligin-3 influences gene expression and social behavior, but is dispensable for synapse number. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02659-6. [PMID: 39003414 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02659-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Neuroligin-3 (Nlgn3) is an autism-associated cell-adhesion molecule that interacts with neurexins and is robustly expressed in both neurons and astrocytes. Neuronal Nlgn3 is an essential regulator of synaptic transmission but the function of astrocytic Nlgn3 is largely unknown. Given the high penetrance of Nlgn3 mutations in autism and the emerging role of astrocytes in neuropsychiatric disorders, we here asked whether astrocytic Nlgn3 might shape neural circuit properties in the cerebellum similar to neuronal Nlgn3. Imaging of tagged Nlgn3 protein produced by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing showed that Nlgn3 is enriched in the cell body but not the fine processes of cerebellar astrocytes (Bergmann glia). Astrocyte-specific knockout of Nlgn3 did not detectably alter the number of synapses, synaptic transmission, or astrocyte morphology in mouse cerebellum. However, spatial transcriptomic analyses revealed a significant shift in gene expression among multiple cerebellar cell types after the deletion of astrocytic Nlgn3. Hence, in contrast to neuronal Nlgn3, astrocytic Nlgn3 in the cerebellum is not involved in shaping synapses but may modulate gene expression in specific brain areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liming Qin
- School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Institute of Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China
| | - Zhili Liu
- BGI Research, Shenzhen, 518083, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Sile Guo
- School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Institute of Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China
| | - Ying Han
- School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Institute of Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China
| | - Xiankun Wang
- School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Institute of Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China
| | - Wen Ren
- School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Institute of Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China
| | - Jiewen Chen
- School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Institute of Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China
| | - Hefu Zhen
- BGI Research, Shenzhen, 518083, China
| | - Chao Nie
- BGI Research, Shenzhen, 518083, China
| | - Ke-Ke Xing
- Department of Anatomy and K.K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Tao Chen
- Department of Anatomy and K.K. Leung Brain Research Centre, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Thomas C Südhof
- Department of molecular and cellular physiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94043, USA.
| | - Yuzhe Sun
- BGI Research, Shenzhen, 518083, China.
- BGI Research, 102601, Beijing, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Neurogenomics, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518120, China.
| | - Bo Zhang
- School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
- Institute of Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Manukjan N, Chau S, Caiment F, van Herwijnen M, Smeets HJ, Fulton D, Ahmed Z, Blankesteijn WM, Foulquier S. Wnt7a Decreases Brain Endothelial Barrier Function Via β-Catenin Activation. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:4854-4867. [PMID: 38147228 PMCID: PMC11236883 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03872-0] [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: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier consists of tightly connected endothelial cells protecting the brain's microenvironment from the periphery. These endothelial cells are characterized by specific tight junction proteins such as Claudin-5 and Occludin, forming the endothelial barrier. Disrupting these cells might lead to blood-brain barrier dysfunction. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway can regulate the expression of these tight junction proteins and subsequent barrier permeability. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro effects of Wnt7a mediated β-catenin signaling on endothelial barrier integrity. Mouse brain endothelial cells, bEnd.3, were treated with recombinant Wnt7a protein or XAV939, a selective inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin mediated transcription to modulate the Wnt signaling pathway. The involvement of Wnt/HIF1α signaling was investigated by inhibiting Hif1α signaling with Hif1α siRNA. Wnt7a stimulation led to activation and nuclear translocation of β-catenin, which was inhibited by XAV939. Wnt7a stimulation decreased Claudin-5 expression mediated by β-catenin and decreased endothelial barrier formation. Wnt7a increased Hif1α and Vegfa expression mediated by β-catenin. However, Hif1α signaling pathway did not regulate tight junction proteins Claudin-5 and Occludin. Our data suggest that Wnt7a stimulation leads to a decrease in tight junction proteins mediated by the nuclear translocation of β-catenin, which hampers proper endothelial barrier formation. This process might be crucial in initiating endothelial cell proliferation and angiogenesis. Although HIF1α did not modulate the expression of tight junction proteins, it might play a role in brain angiogenesis and underlie pathogenic mechanisms in Wnt/HIF1α signaling in diseases such as cerebral small vessel disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Narek Manukjan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Maastricht University, 50 Universiteitssingel, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
- CARIM-School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK
| | - Steven Chau
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Maastricht University, 50 Universiteitssingel, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
| | - Florian Caiment
- Department of Toxicogenomics, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel van Herwijnen
- Department of Toxicogenomics, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
| | - Hubert J Smeets
- Department of Toxicogenomics, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
- MHeNs-School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel Fulton
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK
| | - Zubair Ahmed
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK.
- Centre for Trauma Sciences Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - W Matthijs Blankesteijn
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Maastricht University, 50 Universiteitssingel, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
- CARIM-School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
| | - Sébastien Foulquier
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Maastricht University, 50 Universiteitssingel, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
- CARIM-School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
- MHeNs-School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, P.O. Box 5800, Maastricht, 6202 AZ, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Mehta K, Daghsni M, Raeisossadati R, Xu Z, Davis E, Naidich A, Wang B, Tao S, Pi S, Chen W, Kostka D, Liu S, Gross JM, Kuwajima T, Aldiri I. A cis-regulatory module underlies retinal ganglion cell genesis and axonogenesis. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114291. [PMID: 38823017 PMCID: PMC11238474 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114291] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Atoh7 is transiently expressed in retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) and is required for retinal ganglion cell (RGC) differentiation. In humans, a deletion in a distal non-coding regulatory region upstream of ATOH7 is associated with optic nerve atrophy and blindness. Here, we functionally interrogate the significance of the Atoh7 regulatory landscape to retinogenesis in mice. Deletion of the Atoh7 enhancer structure leads to RGC deficiency, optic nerve hypoplasia, and retinal blood vascular abnormalities, phenocopying inactivation of Atoh7. Further, loss of the Atoh7 remote enhancer impacts ipsilaterally projecting RGCs and disrupts proper axonal projections to the visual thalamus. Deletion of the Atoh7 remote enhancer is also associated with the dysregulation of axonogenesis genes, including the derepression of the axon repulsive cue Robo3. Our data provide insights into how Atoh7 enhancer elements function to promote RGC development and optic nerve formation and highlight a key role of Atoh7 in the transcriptional control of axon guidance molecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kamakshi Mehta
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Marwa Daghsni
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Reza Raeisossadati
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Zhongli Xu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Emily Davis
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Abigail Naidich
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Bingjie Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Shiyue Tao
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Shaohua Pi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Dennis Kostka
- Department of Computational & Systems Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Silvia Liu
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Gross
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Takaaki Kuwajima
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Issam Aldiri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Department of Computational & Systems Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Post Y, Lu C, Fletcher RB, Yeh WC, Nguyen H, Lee SJ, Li Y. Design principles and therapeutic applications of novel synthetic WNT signaling agonists. iScience 2024; 27:109938. [PMID: 38832011 PMCID: PMC11145361 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Wingless-related integration site or Wingless and Int-1 or Wingless-Int (WNT) signaling is crucial for embryonic development, and adult tissue homeostasis and regeneration, through its essential roles in cell fate, patterning, and stem cell regulation. The biophysical characteristics of WNT ligands have hindered efforts to interrogate ligand activity in vivo and prevented their development as therapeutics. Recent breakthroughs have enabled the generation of synthetic WNT signaling molecules that possess characteristics of natural ligands and potently activate the pathway, while also providing distinct advantages for therapeutic development and manufacturing. This review provides a detailed discussion of the protein engineering of these molecular platforms for WNT signaling agonism. We discuss the importance of WNT signaling in several organs and share insights from the initial application of these new classes of molecules in vitro and in vivo. These molecules offer a unique opportunity to enhance our understanding of how WNT signaling agonism promotes tissue repair, enabling targeted development of tailored therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yorick Post
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Chenggang Lu
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Russell B. Fletcher
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Wen-Chen Yeh
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Huy Nguyen
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Sung-Jin Lee
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Yang Li
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Hashimoto Y, Campbell M. Eyes on glutamate in angiogenesis and barrier formation. Neuron 2024; 112:1895-1897. [PMID: 38901398 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2024.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
In this issue of Neuron, Biswas et al.1 demonstrate the roles of glutamatergic neuronal activity in the regulation of angiogenesis and retinal vascular endothelial barrier maturation using three different knockout mouse models. Their findings shed light on how aberrant glutamatergic activity can impact neural vascular function and barrier integrity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Hashimoto
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, D02 VF25 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Matthew Campbell
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, D02 VF25 Dublin, Ireland; FutureNeuro, Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Biswas S, Shahriar S, Bachay G, Arvanitis P, Jamoul D, Brunken WJ, Agalliu D. Glutamatergic neuronal activity regulates angiogenesis and blood-retinal barrier maturation via Norrin/β-catenin signaling. Neuron 2024; 112:1978-1996.e6. [PMID: 38599212 PMCID: PMC11189759 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2024.03.011] [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: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Interactions among neuronal, glial, and vascular components are crucial for retinal angiogenesis and blood-retinal barrier (BRB) maturation. Although synaptic dysfunction precedes vascular abnormalities in many retinal pathologies, how neuronal activity, specifically glutamatergic activity, regulates retinal angiogenesis and BRB maturation remains unclear. Using in vivo genetic studies in mice, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), and functional validation, we show that deep plexus angiogenesis and paracellular BRB maturation are delayed in Vglut1-/- retinas where neurons fail to release glutamate. By contrast, deep plexus angiogenesis and paracellular BRB maturation are accelerated in Gnat1-/- retinas, where constitutively depolarized rods release excessive glutamate. Norrin expression and endothelial Norrin/β-catenin signaling are downregulated in Vglut1-/- retinas and upregulated in Gnat1-/- retinas. Pharmacological activation of endothelial Norrin/β-catenin signaling in Vglut1-/- retinas rescues defects in deep plexus angiogenesis and paracellular BRB maturation. Our findings demonstrate that glutamatergic neuronal activity regulates retinal angiogenesis and BRB maturation by modulating endothelial Norrin/β-catenin signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saptarshi Biswas
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Sanjid Shahriar
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA; Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Galina Bachay
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Panos Arvanitis
- Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Danny Jamoul
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA; John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, New York, NY 10019, USA
| | - William J Brunken
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Dritan Agalliu
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA; Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kakogiannos N, Scalise AA, Martini E, Maderna C, Benvenuto AF, D’Antonio M, Carmignani L, Magni S, Gullotta GS, Lampugnani MG, Iannelli F, Beznoussenko GV, Mironov AA, Cerutti C, Bentley K, Philippides A, Zanardi F, Bacigaluppi M, Sigismund S, Bassani C, Farina C, Martino G, De Giovanni M, Dejana E, Iannacone M, Inverso D, Giannotta M. GPR126 is a specifier of blood-brain barrier formation in the mouse central nervous system. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e165368. [PMID: 39087467 PMCID: PMC11290973 DOI: 10.1172/jci165368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) acquires unique properties to regulate neuronal function during development. The formation of the BBB, which occurs in tandem with angiogenesis, is directed by the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Yet the exact molecular interplay remains elusive. Our study reveals the G protein-coupled receptor GPR126 as a critical target of canonical Wnt signaling, essential for the development of the BBB's distinctive vascular characteristics and its functional integrity. Endothelial cell-specific deletion of the Gpr126 gene in mice induced aberrant vascular morphogenesis, resulting in disrupted BBB organization. Simultaneously, heightened transcytosis in vitro compromised barrier integrity, resulting in enhanced vascular permeability. Mechanistically, GPR126 enhanced endothelial cell migration, pivotal for angiogenesis, acting through an interaction between LRP1 and β1 integrin, thereby balancing the levels of β1 integrin activation and recycling. Overall, we identified GPR126 as a specifier of an organotypic vascular structure, which sustained angiogenesis and guaranteed the acquisition of the BBB properties during development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Emanuele Martini
- IFOM ETS, the AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hematology-Oncology, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudio Maderna
- IFOM ETS, the AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Michele D’Antonio
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Carmignani
- IFOM ETS, the AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Serena Magni
- IFOM ETS, the AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgia Serena Gullotta
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS, San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Fabio Iannelli
- IFOM ETS, the AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Camilla Cerutti
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology (IEO) IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Katie Bentley
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Informatics, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Philippides
- Department of Informatics, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Federica Zanardi
- IFOM ETS, the AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Bacigaluppi
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS, San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Sigismund
- Department of Oncology and Hematology-Oncology, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology (IEO) IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Bassani
- Immunobiology of Neurological Disorders Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Cinthia Farina
- Immunobiology of Neurological Disorders Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianvito Martino
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS, San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco De Giovanni
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Matteo Iannacone
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Donato Inverso
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Giannotta
- IFOM ETS, the AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Kwapong WR, Tang F, Liu P, Zhang Z, Cao L, Feng Z, Yang S, Shu Y, Xu H, Lu Y, Zhao X, Chong B, Wu B, Liu M, Lei P, Zhang S. Choriocapillaris reduction accurately discriminates against early-onset Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimers Dement 2024; 20:4185-4198. [PMID: 38747519 PMCID: PMC11180859 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13871] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study addresses the urgent need for non-invasive early-onset Alzheimer's disease (EOAD) prediction. Using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), we present a choriocapillaris model sensitive to EOAD, correlating with serum biomarkers. METHODS Eighty-four EOAD patients and 73 controls were assigned to swept-source OCTA (SS-OCTA) or the spectral domain OCTA (SD-OCTA) cohorts. Our hypothesis on choriocapillaris predictive potential in EOAD was tested and validated in these two cohorts. RESULTS Both cohorts revealed diminished choriocapillaris signals, demonstrating the highest discriminatory capability (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve: SS-OCTA 0.913, SD-OCTA 0.991; P < 0.001). A sparser SS-OCTA choriocapillaris correlated with increased serum amyloid beta (Aβ)42, Aβ42/40, and phosphorylated tau (p-tau)181 levels (all P < 0.05). Apolipoprotein E status did not affect choriocapillaris measurement. DISCUSSION The choriocapillaris, observed in both cohorts, proves sensitive to EOAD diagnosis, and correlates with serum Aβ and p-tau181 levels, suggesting its potential as a diagnostic tool for identifying and tracking microvascular changes in EOAD. HIGHLIGHTS Optical coherence tomography angiography may be applied for non-invasive screening of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Choriocapillaris demonstrates high sensitivity and specificity for early-onset AD diagnosis. Microvascular dynamics abnormalities are associated with AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Fei Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
| | - Peng Liu
- Department of EmergencyWest China Hospital of Sichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
| | - Ziyi Zhang
- Department of NeurologyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
| | - Le Cao
- Department of NeurologyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
| | - Zijuan Feng
- Department of NeurologyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
| | - Shiyun Yang
- Department of NeurologyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
| | - Yang Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
| | - Heng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
| | - Ying Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
| | - Xinjun Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
| | - Baochen Chong
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
| | - Bo Wu
- Department of NeurologyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of NeurologyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
| | - Peng Lei
- Department of NeurologyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
| | - Shuting Zhang
- Department of NeurologyWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Toma K, Zhao M, Zhang S, Wang F, Graham HK, Zou J, Modgil S, Shang WH, Tsai NY, Cai Z, Liu L, Hong G, Kriegstein AR, Hu Y, Körbelin J, Zhang R, Liao YJ, Kim TN, Ye X, Duan X. Perivascular neurons instruct 3D vascular lattice formation via neurovascular contact. Cell 2024; 187:2767-2784.e23. [PMID: 38733989 PMCID: PMC11223890 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.04.010] [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: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
The vasculature of the central nervous system is a 3D lattice composed of laminar vascular beds interconnected by penetrating vessels. The mechanisms controlling 3D lattice network formation remain largely unknown. Combining viral labeling, genetic marking, and single-cell profiling in the mouse retina, we discovered a perivascular neuronal subset, annotated as Fam19a4/Nts-positive retinal ganglion cells (Fam19a4/Nts-RGCs), directly contacting the vasculature with perisomatic endfeet. Developmental ablation of Fam19a4/Nts-RGCs led to disoriented growth of penetrating vessels near the ganglion cell layer (GCL), leading to a disorganized 3D vascular lattice. We identified enriched PIEZO2 expression in Fam19a4/Nts-RGCs. Piezo2 loss from all retinal neurons or Fam19a4/Nts-RGCs abolished the direct neurovascular contacts and phenocopied the Fam19a4/Nts-RGC ablation deficits. The defective vascular structure led to reduced capillary perfusion and sensitized the retina to ischemic insults. Furthermore, we uncovered a Piezo2-dependent perivascular granule cell subset for cerebellar vascular patterning, indicating neuronal Piezo2-dependent 3D vascular patterning in the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Toma
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mengya Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shaobo Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hannah K Graham
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jun Zou
- Department of Discovery Oncology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shweta Modgil
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Wenhao H Shang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nicole Y Tsai
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Zhishun Cai
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
| | - Liping Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Guiying Hong
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Arnold R Kriegstein
- Department of Neurology and The Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Yang Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Jakob Körbelin
- ENDomics Lab, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ruobing Zhang
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
| | - Yaping Joyce Liao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Tyson N Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Xin Ye
- Department of Discovery Oncology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Xin Duan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Physiology and Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Sullivan JM, Bagnell AM, Alevy J, Avila EM, Mihaljević L, Saavedra-Rivera PC, Kong L, Huh JS, McCray BA, Aisenberg WH, Zuberi AR, Bogdanik L, Lutz CM, Qiu Z, Quinlan KA, Searson PC, Sumner CJ. Gain-of-function mutations of TRPV4 acting in endothelial cells drive blood-CNS barrier breakdown and motor neuron degeneration in mice. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadk1358. [PMID: 38776392 PMCID: PMC11316273 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adk1358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Blood-CNS barrier disruption is a hallmark of numerous neurological disorders, yet whether barrier breakdown is sufficient to trigger neurodegenerative disease remains unresolved. Therapeutic strategies to mitigate barrier hyperpermeability are also limited. Dominant missense mutations of the cation channel transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) cause forms of hereditary motor neuron disease. To gain insights into the cellular basis of these disorders, we generated knock-in mouse models of TRPV4 channelopathy by introducing two disease-causing mutations (R269C and R232C) into the endogenous mouse Trpv4 gene. TRPV4 mutant mice exhibited weakness, early lethality, and regional motor neuron loss. Genetic deletion of the mutant Trpv4 allele from endothelial cells (but not neurons, glia, or muscle) rescued these phenotypes. Symptomatic mutant mice exhibited focal disruptions of blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB) integrity, associated with a gain of function of mutant TRPV4 channel activity in neural vascular endothelial cells (NVECs) and alterations of NVEC tight junction structure. Systemic administration of a TRPV4-specific antagonist abrogated channel-mediated BSCB impairments and provided a marked phenotypic rescue of symptomatic mutant mice. Together, our findings show that mutant TRPV4 channels can drive motor neuron degeneration in a non-cell autonomous manner by precipitating focal breakdown of the BSCB. Further, these data highlight the reversibility of TRPV4-mediated BSCB impairments and identify a potential therapeutic strategy for patients with TRPV4 mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy M. Sullivan
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Anna M. Bagnell
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jonathan Alevy
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Elvia Mena Avila
- George and Anne Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island; Kingston, RI 02881, USA
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island; Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Ljubica Mihaljević
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | | | - Lingling Kong
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jennifer S. Huh
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Brett A. McCray
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - William H. Aisenberg
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | | | | | | | - Zhaozhu Qiu
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Katharina A. Quinlan
- George and Anne Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island; Kingston, RI 02881, USA
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island; Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Peter C. Searson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Charlotte J. Sumner
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Thulasiram MR, Yamamoto R, Olszewski RT, Gu S, Morell RJ, Hoa M, Dabdoub A. Molecular differences between neonatal and adult stria vascularis from organotypic explants and transcriptomics. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.24.590986. [PMID: 38712156 PMCID: PMC11071502 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.24.590986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Summary The stria vascularis (SV), part of the blood-labyrinth barrier, is an essential component of the inner ear that regulates the ionic environment required for hearing. SV degeneration disrupts cochlear homeostasis, leading to irreversible hearing loss, yet a comprehensive understanding of the SV, and consequently therapeutic availability for SV degeneration, is lacking. We developed a whole-tissue explant model from neonatal and adult mice to create a robust platform for SV research. We validated our model by demonstrating that the proliferative behaviour of the SV in vitro mimics SV in vivo, providing a representative model and advancing high-throughput SV research. We also provided evidence for pharmacological intervention in our system by investigating the role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in SV proliferation. Finally, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing from in vivo neonatal and adult mouse SV and revealed key genes and pathways that may play a role in SV proliferation and maintenance. Together, our results contribute new insights into investigating biological solutions for SV-associated hearing loss. Significance Hearing loss impairs our ability to communicate with people and interact with our environment. This can lead to social isolation, depression, cognitive deficits, and dementia. Inner ear degeneration is a primary cause of hearing loss, and our study provides an in depth look at one of the major sites of inner ear degeneration: the stria vascularis. The stria vascularis and associated blood-labyrinth barrier maintain the functional integrity of the auditory system, yet it is relatively understudied. By developing a new in vitro model for the young and adult stria vascularis and using single cell RNA sequencing, our study provides a novel approach to studying this tissue, contributing new insights and widespread implications for auditory neuroscience and regenerative medicine. Highlights - We established an organotypic explant system of the neonatal and adult stria vascularis with an intact blood-labyrinth barrier. - Proliferation of the stria vascularis decreases with age in vitro , modelling its proliferative behaviour in vivo . - Pharmacological studies using our in vitro SV model open possibilities for testing injury paradigms and therapeutic interventions. - Inhibition of Wnt signalling decreases proliferation in neonatal stria vascularis.- We identified key genes and transcription factors unique to developing and mature SV cell types using single cell RNA sequencing.
Collapse
|
22
|
Schevenels G, Cabochette P, America M, Vandenborne A, De Grande L, Guenther S, He L, Dieu M, Christou B, Vermeersch M, Germano RFV, Perez-Morga D, Renard P, Martin M, Vanlandewijck M, Betsholtz C, Vanhollebeke B. A brain-specific angiogenic mechanism enabled by tip cell specialization. Nature 2024; 628:863-871. [PMID: 38570687 PMCID: PMC11041701 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07283-6] [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: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Vertebrate organs require locally adapted blood vessels1,2. The gain of such organotypic vessel specializations is often deemed to be molecularly unrelated to the process of organ vascularization. Here, opposing this model, we reveal a molecular mechanism for brain-specific angiogenesis that operates under the control of Wnt7a/b ligands-well-known blood-brain barrier maturation signals3-5. The control mechanism relies on Wnt7a/b-dependent expression of Mmp25, which we find is enriched in brain endothelial cells. CRISPR-Cas9 mutagenesis in zebrafish reveals that this poorly characterized glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored matrix metalloproteinase is selectively required in endothelial tip cells to enable their initial migration across the pial basement membrane lining the brain surface. Mechanistically, Mmp25 confers brain invasive competence by cleaving meningeal fibroblast-derived collagen IV α5/6 chains within a short non-collagenous region of the central helical part of the heterotrimer. After genetic interference with the pial basement membrane composition, the Wnt-β-catenin-dependent organotypic control of brain angiogenesis is lost, resulting in properly patterned, yet blood-brain-barrier-defective cerebrovasculatures. We reveal an organ-specific angiogenesis mechanism, shed light on tip cell mechanistic angiodiversity and thereby illustrate how organs, by imposing local constraints on angiogenic tip cells, can select vessels matching their distinctive physiological requirements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giel Schevenels
- Laboratory of Neurovascular Signaling, Department of Molecular Biology, ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Pauline Cabochette
- Laboratory of Neurovascular Signaling, Department of Molecular Biology, ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Michelle America
- Laboratory of Neurovascular Signaling, Department of Molecular Biology, ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Arnaud Vandenborne
- Laboratory of Neurovascular Signaling, Department of Molecular Biology, ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Line De Grande
- Laboratory of Neurovascular Signaling, Department of Molecular Biology, ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Stefan Guenther
- Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, ECCPS Bioinformatics and Deep Sequencing Platform, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Liqun He
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marc Dieu
- Mass Spectrometry Facility (MaSUN), University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | - Basile Christou
- Laboratory of Neurovascular Signaling, Department of Molecular Biology, ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Marjorie Vermeersch
- Center for Microscopy and Molecular Imaging (CMMI), Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Raoul F V Germano
- Laboratory of Neurovascular Signaling, Department of Molecular Biology, ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gosselies, Belgium
| | - David Perez-Morga
- Laboratory of Neurovascular Signaling, Department of Molecular Biology, ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gosselies, Belgium
- Center for Microscopy and Molecular Imaging (CMMI), Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Patricia Renard
- Mass Spectrometry Facility (MaSUN), University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | - Maud Martin
- Laboratory of Neurovascular Signaling, Department of Molecular Biology, ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Michael Vanlandewijck
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Medicine (Huddinge), Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Christer Betsholtz
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Medicine (Huddinge), Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Benoit Vanhollebeke
- Laboratory of Neurovascular Signaling, Department of Molecular Biology, ULB Neuroscience Institute, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gosselies, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Liu M, Dai E, Yang M, Li S, Fan L, Liu Y, Xiao H, Zhao P, Yang Z. Investigating the Impact of Dimer Interface Mutations on Norrin's Secretion and Norrin/β-Catenin Pathway Activation. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:31. [PMID: 38517429 PMCID: PMC10981164 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.3.31] [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: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to investigate the impact of 21 NDP mutations located at the dimer interface, focusing on their potential effects on protein assembly, secretion efficiency, and activation of the Norrin/β-catenin signaling pathway. Methods The expression level, secretion efficiency, and protein assembly of mutations were analyzed using Western blot. The Norrin/β-catenin signaling pathway activation ability after overexpression of mutants or supernatant incubation of mutant proteins was tested in HEK293STF cells. The mutant norrin and wild-type (WT) FZD4 were overexpressed in HeLa cells to observe their co-localization. Immunofluorescence staining was conducted in HeLa cells to analyze the subcellular localization of Norrin and the Retention Using Selective Hook (RUSH) assay was used to dynamically observe the secretion process of WT and mutant Norrin. Results Four mutants (A63S, E66K, H68P, and L103Q) exhibited no significant differences from WT in all evaluations. The other 17 mutants presented abnormalities, including inadequate protein assembly, reduced secretion, inability to bind to FZD4 on the cell membrane, and decreased capacity to activate Norrin/β-catenin signaling pathway. The RUSH assay revealed the delay in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) exit and impairment of Golgi transport. Conclusions Mutations at the Norrin dimer interface may lead to abnormal protein assembly, inability to bind to FZD4, and decreased secretion, thus contributing to compromised Norrin/β-catenin signaling. Our results shed light on the pathogenic mechanisms behind a significant proportion of NDP gene mutations in familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) or Norrie disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Liu
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Center for Medical Genetics and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Research Unit for Blindness Prevention, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026), Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Erkuan Dai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xin Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mu Yang
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Center for Medical Genetics and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Research Unit for Blindness Prevention, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026), Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shujin Li
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Center for Medical Genetics and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Research Unit for Blindness Prevention, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026), Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lin Fan
- The University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yining Liu
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Center for Medical Genetics and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Research Unit for Blindness Prevention, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026), Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Haodong Xiao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xin Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Peiquan Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xin Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenglin Yang
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Center for Medical Genetics and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Research Unit for Blindness Prevention, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026), Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- The University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Furtado J, Eichmann A. Vascular development, remodeling and maturation. Curr Top Dev Biol 2024; 159:344-370. [PMID: 38729681 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2024.02.001] [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] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
The development of the vascular system is crucial in supporting the growth and health of all other organs in the body, and vascular system dysfunction is the major cause of human morbidity and mortality. This chapter discusses three successive processes that govern vascular system development, starting with the differentiation of the primitive vascular system in early embryonic development, followed by its remodeling into a functional circulatory system composed of arteries and veins, and its final maturation and acquisition of an organ specific semi-permeable barrier that controls nutrient uptake into tissues and hence controls organ physiology. Along these steps, endothelial cells forming the inner lining of all blood vessels acquire extensive heterogeneity in terms of gene expression patterns and function, that we are only beginning to understand. These advances contribute to overall knowledge of vascular biology and are predicted to unlock the unprecedented therapeutic potential of the endothelium as an avenue for treatment of diseases associated with dysfunctional vasculature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Furtado
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States; Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Anne Eichmann
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States; Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States; Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Inserm U970, Université Paris, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Morimoto K, Tabata H, Takahashi R, Nakajima K. Interactions between neural cells and blood vessels in central nervous system development. Bioessays 2024; 46:e2300091. [PMID: 38135890 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The sophisticated function of the central nervous system (CNS) is largely supported by proper interactions between neural cells and blood vessels. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that neurons and glial cells support the formation of blood vessels, which in turn, act as migratory scaffolds for these cell types. Neural progenitors are also involved in the regulation of blood vessel formation. This mutual interaction between neural cells and blood vessels is elegantly controlled by several chemokines, growth factors, extracellular matrix, and adhesion molecules such as integrins. Recent research has revealed that newly migrating cell types along blood vessels repel other preexisting migrating cell types, causing them to detach from the blood vessels. In this review, we discuss vascular formation and cell migration, particularly during development. Moreover, we discuss how the crosstalk between blood vessels and neurons and glial cells could be related to neurodevelopmental disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Morimoto
- Department of Anatomy, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hidenori Tabata
- Department of Anatomy, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Institute for Developmental Research, Aichi Developmental Disability Center, Kasugai, Japan
| | - Rikuo Takahashi
- Department of Anatomy, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazunori Nakajima
- Department of Anatomy, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Bruguera ES, Mahoney JP, Weis WI. The co-receptor Tspan12 directly captures Norrin to promote ligand-specific β-catenin signaling. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.03.578714. [PMID: 38352533 PMCID: PMC10862866 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.03.578714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin signaling directs animal development and tissue renewal in a tightly controlled, cell- and tissue-specific manner. In the central nervous system, the atypical ligand Norrin controls angiogenesis and maintenance of the blood-brain barrier and blood-retina barrier through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Like Wnt, Norrin activates signaling by binding and heterodimerizing the receptors Frizzled (Fzd) and Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 or 6 (LRP5/6), leading to membrane recruitment of the intracellular transducer Dishevelled (Dvl); this ultimately results in the stabilization of the transcriptional coactivator β-catenin. Unlike Wnt, the cysteine-knot ligand Norrin only signals through Fzd4 and additionally requires the co-receptor Tspan12; however, the mechanism underlying Tspan12-mediated signal enhancement is unclear. It has been proposed that Tspan12 integrates into the Norrin-Fzd4 complex to enhance Norrin-Fzd4 affinity or otherwise allosterically modulate Fzd4 signaling. Here, we measure direct, high-affinity binding between purified Norrin and Tspan12 in a lipid environment and use AlphaFold models to interrogate this interaction interface. We find that Tspan12 and Fzd4 can simultaneously bind Norrin and that a pre-formed Tspan12/Fzd4 heterodimer, as well as cells co-expressing Tspan12 and Fzd4, more efficiently capture low concentrations of Norrin than Fzd4 alone. We also show that Tspan12 competes with both heparan sulfate proteoglycans and LRP6 for Norrin binding and that Tspan12 does not impact Fzd4-Dvl affinity in the presence or absence of Norrin. Our findings suggest that Tspan12 does not allosterically enhance Fzd4 binding to Norrin or Dvl, but instead functions to directly capture Norrin upstream of signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elise S Bruguera
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Jacob P Mahoney
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - William I Weis
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Peng S, Guo M, Wu C, Liu J, Zou B, Chen Y, Su Y, Shi L, Zhu S, Xu S, Guo D, Ju R, Wei L, Wei Y, Liu C. Age and light damage influence Fzd5 regulation of ocular growth-related genes. Exp Eye Res 2024; 239:109769. [PMID: 38154732 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Genetic and environmental factors can independently or coordinatively drive ocular axis growth. Mutations in FRIZZLED5 (FZD5) have been associated with microphthalmia, coloboma, and, more recently, high myopia. The molecular mechanism of how Fzd5 participates in ocular growth remains unknown. In this study, we compiled a list of human genes associated with ocular growth abnormalities based on public databases and a literature search. We identified a set of ocular growth-related genes from the list that was altered in the Fzd5 mutant mice by RNAseq analysis at different time points. The Fzd5 regulation of this set of genes appeared to be impacted by age and light damage. Further bioinformatical analysis indicated that these genes are extracellular matrix (ECM)-related; and meanwhile an altered Wnt signaling was detected. Altogether, the data suggest that Fzd5 may regulate ocular growth through regulating ECM remodeling, hinting at a genetic-environmental interaction in gene regulation of ocular axis control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shanzhen Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Mingzhu Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Cheng Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Jinsong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Bin Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Yuanyuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Yingchun Su
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Lei Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Shiyong Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Shujuan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Dianlei Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Rong Ju
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Lai Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China.
| | - Yanhong Wei
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China.
| | - Chunqiao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Biswas S, Shahriar S, Bachay G, Arvanitis P, Jamoul D, Brunken WJ, Agalliu D. Glutamatergic neuronal activity regulates angiogenesis and blood-retinal barrier maturation via Norrin/β-catenin signaling. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.07.10.548410. [PMID: 37503079 PMCID: PMC10369888 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.10.548410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Interactions among neuronal, glial and vascular components are crucial for retinal angiogenesis and blood-retinal barrier (BRB) maturation. Although synaptic dysfunction precedes vascular abnormalities in many retinal pathologies, how neuronal activity, specifically glutamatergic activity, regulates retinal angiogenesis and BRB maturation remains unclear. Using in vivo genetic studies in mice, single-cell RNA-sequencing and functional validation, we show that deep plexus angiogenesis and paracellular BRB maturation are delayed in Vglut1 -/- retinas where neurons fail to release glutamate. In contrast, deep plexus angiogenesis and paracellular BRB maturation are accelerated in Gnat1 -/- retinas where constitutively depolarized rods release excessive glutamate. Norrin expression and endothelial Norrin/β-catenin signaling are downregulated in Vglut1 -/- retinas, and upregulated in Gnat1 -/- retinas. Pharmacological activation of endothelial Norrin/β-catenin signaling in Vglut1 -/- retinas rescued defects in deep plexus angiogenesis and paracellular BRB maturation. Our findings demonstrate that glutamatergic neuronal activity regulates retinal angiogenesis and BRB maturation by modulating endothelial Norrin/β-catenin signaling.
Collapse
|
29
|
Wood EH, Moshfeghi DM, Capone A, Williams GA, Blumenkranz MS, Sieving PA, Harper CA, Hartnett ME, Drenser KA. A Literary Pediatric Retina Fellowship With Michael T. Trese, MD. Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2023; 54:701-712. [PMID: 38113364 DOI: 10.3928/23258160-20231020-01] [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: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Michael T. Trese, MD (1946-2022), a vitreoretinal surgeon, made significant contributions to the field of retina. Although most known for his work in pediatric retina surgery, he was a pioneer in areas such as medical retina, translational research, and telemedicine. This article reviews his major contributions to spread his knowledge more widely to vitreoretinal trainees and specialists. We discuss six areas where Trese made a lasting impact: lens-sparing vitrectomy, familial exudative vitreoretinopathy, congenital X-linked retinoschisis, autologous plasmin enzyme, regenerative medicine, and telemedicine. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2023;54:701-712.].
Collapse
|
30
|
Liu G, Feng L, Liu X, Gao P, Wang F. O-GlcNAcylation Inhibition Upregulates Connexin43 Expression in the Endothelium to Protect the Tight Junction Barrier in Diabetic Retinopathy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:30. [PMID: 37982762 PMCID: PMC10668625 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.14.30] [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: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to investigate the effects of O-linked N-acetylglucosamine modification (O-GlcNAcylation) on connexin43 (Cx43) expression and its subsequent effects on tight junction properties in diabetic retinopathy (DR). Methods O-GlcNAcylation levels in primary human retinal vascular endothelial cells (HRVECs) and retinas from rats with diabetes were regulated by treatment with Thiamet G or alloxan. Immunoprecipitation was used to examine the relationship between O-GlcNAcylation and Cx43 expression. Stable overexpression and knockdown of Cx43 in HRVECs were achieved using lentivirus constructs; further, their effects on occludin and zonula occluden-1 (ZO-1) expression and tight junction barrier function were determined. Results O-GlcNAcylation level increased significantly, whereas Cx43 expression decreased in retinas from rats with diabetes and HRVECs cultured under high-glucose conditions. Immunoprecipitation revealed that Cx43 was modified by O-GlcNAcylation and phosphorylation simultaneously. O-GlcNAcylation inhibition negatively regulated both total Cx43 and phosphorylated Cx43 expression, subsequently disrupting tight junction properties. Conversely, Cx43 overexpression reversed the disruption of tight junction properties and downregulated vascular endothelial growth factor expression. Consistently, Cx43 overexpression increased transendothelial electrical resistance values in HRVEC layers. Conclusions O-GlcNAcylation negatively regulated Cx43 expression, contributing to the disruption of the blood retinal barrier. However, O-GlcNAcylation inhibition and Cx43 overexpression could reverse the tight junction disruption. Therefore, O-GlcNAcylation inhibition is a potential target for avoiding tight junction disruption through the Cx43 pathway in DR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guodong Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Le Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng Gao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Fang Wang
- Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Pokrajac NT, Tokarew NJA, Gurdita A, Ortin-Martinez A, Wallace VA. Meningeal macrophages inhibit chemokine signaling in pre-tumor cells to suppress mouse medulloblastoma initiation. Dev Cell 2023; 58:2015-2031.e8. [PMID: 37774709 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.08.033] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
The microenvironment profoundly influences tumor initiation across numerous tissues but remains understudied in brain tumors. In the cerebellum, canonical Wnt signaling controlled by Norrin/Frizzled4 (Fzd4) activation in meningeal endothelial cells is a potent inhibitor of preneoplasia and tumor progression in mouse models of Sonic hedgehog medulloblastoma (Shh-MB). Single-cell transcriptome profiling and phenotyping of the meninges indicate that Norrin/Frizzled4 sustains the activation of meningeal macrophages (mMΦs), characterized by Lyve1 and CXCL4 expression, during the critical preneoplastic period. Depleting mMΦs during this period enhances preneoplasia and tumorigenesis, phenocopying the effects of Norrin loss. The anti-tumorigenic function of mMΦs is derived from the expression of CXCL4, which counters CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling in pre-tumor cells, thereby inhibiting cell-cycle progression and promoting migration away from the pre-tumor niche. These findings identify a pivotal role for mMΦs as key mediators in chemokine-regulated anti-cancer crosstalk between the stroma and pre-tumor cells in the control of MB initiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nenad T Pokrajac
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Nicholas J A Tokarew
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada
| | - Akshay Gurdita
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Arturo Ortin-Martinez
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Valerie A Wallace
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3A9, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Bora K, Kushwah N, Maurya M, Pavlovich MC, Wang Z, Chen J. Assessment of Inner Blood-Retinal Barrier: Animal Models and Methods. Cells 2023; 12:2443. [PMID: 37887287 PMCID: PMC10605292 DOI: 10.3390/cells12202443] [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: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Proper functioning of the neural retina relies on the unique retinal environment regulated by the blood-retinal barrier (BRB), which restricts the passage of solutes, fluids, and toxic substances. BRB impairment occurs in many retinal vascular diseases and the breakdown of BRB significantly contributes to disease pathology. Understanding the different molecular constituents and signaling pathways involved in BRB development and maintenance is therefore crucial in developing treatment modalities. This review summarizes the major molecular signaling pathways involved in inner BRB (iBRB) formation and maintenance, and representative animal models of eye diseases with retinal vascular leakage. Studies on Wnt/β-catenin signaling are highlighted, which is critical for retinal and brain vascular angiogenesis and barriergenesis. Moreover, multiple in vivo and in vitro methods for the detection and analysis of vascular leakage are described, along with their advantages and limitations. These pre-clinical animal models and methods for assessing iBRB provide valuable experimental tools in delineating the molecular mechanisms of retinal vascular diseases and evaluating therapeutic drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jing Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Pauzuolyte V, Patel A, Wawrzynski JR, Ingham NJ, Leong YC, Karda R, Bitner‐Glindzicz M, Berger W, Waddington SN, Steel KP, Sowden JC. Systemic gene therapy rescues retinal dysfunction and hearing loss in a model of Norrie disease. EMBO Mol Med 2023; 15:e17393. [PMID: 37642150 PMCID: PMC10565640 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202317393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Deafness affects 5% of the world's population, yet there is a lack of treatments to prevent hearing loss due to genetic causes. Norrie disease is a recessive X-linked disorder, caused by NDP gene mutation. It manifests as blindness at birth and progressive sensorineural hearing loss, leading to debilitating dual sensory deprivation. To develop a gene therapy, we used a Norrie disease mouse model (Ndptm1Wbrg ), which recapitulates abnormal retinal vascularisation and progressive hearing loss. We delivered human NDP cDNA by intravenous injection of adeno-associated viral vector (AAV)9 at neonatal, juvenile and young adult pathological stages and investigated its therapeutic effects on the retina and cochlea. Neonatal treatment prevented the death of the sensory cochlear hair cells and rescued cochlear disease biomarkers as demonstrated by RNAseq and physiological measurements of auditory function. Retinal vascularisation and electroretinograms were restored to normal by neonatal treatment. Delivery of NDP gene therapy after the onset of the degenerative inner ear disease also ameliorated the cochlear pathology, supporting the feasibility of a clinical treatment for progressive hearing loss in people with Norrie disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valda Pauzuolyte
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College LondonLondonUK
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research CentreLondonUK
| | - Aara Patel
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College LondonLondonUK
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research CentreLondonUK
| | - James R Wawrzynski
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College LondonLondonUK
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research CentreLondonUK
| | - Neil J Ingham
- Wolfson Centre for Age‐Related Diseases, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Yeh Chwan Leong
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College LondonLondonUK
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research CentreLondonUK
| | - Rajvinder Karda
- EGA Institute for Woman's Health, University College LondonLondonUK
| | - Maria Bitner‐Glindzicz
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College LondonLondonUK
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research CentreLondonUK
| | - Wolfgang Berger
- Institute of Medical Molecular Genetics, University of ZürichZürichSwitzerland
- Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology (ZIHP), University of ZürichZürichSwitzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, University of ZürichZürichSwitzerland
| | - Simon N Waddington
- EGA Institute for Woman's Health, University College LondonLondonUK
- MRC Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of the WitswatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Karen P Steel
- Wolfson Centre for Age‐Related Diseases, King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Jane C Sowden
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College LondonLondonUK
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research CentreLondonUK
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Liu H, Sun Z, Luo G, Hu Y, Ruan H, Tu B, Li J, Fan C. lncRNA MEG3 Promotes Osteogenic Differentiation of Tendon Stem Cells Via the miR-129-5p/TCF4/β-Catenin Axis and thus Contributes to Trauma-Induced Heterotopic Ossification. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:2311-2328. [PMID: 37284914 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10562-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heterotopic ossification (HO) is one of the most intractable conditions following injury to the musculoskeletal system. In recent years, much attention has been paid to the role of lncRNA in musculoskeletal disorders, but its role in HO was still unclear. Therefore, this study attempted to determine the role of lncRNA MEG3 in the formation of post-traumatic HO and further explore the underlying mechanisms. RESULTS On the basis of high-throughput sequencing and qPCR validation, elevated expression of the lncRNA MEG3 was shown during traumatic HO formation. Accordingly, in vitro experiments demonstrated that lncRNA MEG3 promoted aberrant osteogenic differentiation of tendon-derived stem cells (TDSCs). Mechanical exploration through RNA pulldown, luciferase reporter gene assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay identified the direct binding relationship between miR-129-5p and MEG3, or miR-129-5p and TCF4. Further rescue experiments confirmed the miR-129-5p/TCF4/β-catenin axis to be downstream molecular cascade responsible for the osteogenic-motivating effects of MEG3 on the TDSCs. Finally, experiments in a mouse burn/tenotomy model corroborated the promoting effects of MEG3 on the formation of HO through the miR-129-5p/TCF4/β-catenin axis. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrated that the lncRNA MEG3 promoted osteogenic differentiation of TDSCs and thus the formation of heterotopic ossification, which could be a potential therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hang Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Orthopaedic Material Innovation and Tissue Regeneration, Shanghai, 201306, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziyang Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Orthopaedic Material Innovation and Tissue Regeneration, Shanghai, 201306, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang Luo
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Orthopaedic Material Innovation and Tissue Regeneration, Shanghai, 201306, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuehao Hu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopaedic Implants, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongjiang Ruan
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Orthopaedic Material Innovation and Tissue Regeneration, Shanghai, 201306, People's Republic of China
| | - Bing Tu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Orthopaedic Material Innovation and Tissue Regeneration, Shanghai, 201306, People's Republic of China
| | - Juehong Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Orthopaedic Material Innovation and Tissue Regeneration, Shanghai, 201306, People's Republic of China.
| | - Cunyi Fan
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Orthopaedic Material Innovation and Tissue Regeneration, Shanghai, 201306, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
O'Brown NM, Patel NB, Hartmann U, Klein AM, Gu C, Megason SG. The secreted neuronal signal Spock1 promotes blood-brain barrier development. Dev Cell 2023; 58:1534-1547.e6. [PMID: 37437574 PMCID: PMC10525910 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.06.005] [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: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a unique set of properties of the brain vasculature which severely restrict its permeability to proteins and small molecules. Classic chick-quail chimera studies have shown that these properties are not intrinsic to the brain vasculature but rather are induced by surrounding neural tissue. Here, we identify Spock1 as a candidate neuronal signal for regulating BBB permeability in zebrafish and mice. Mosaic genetic analysis shows that neuronally expressed Spock1 is cell non-autonomously required for a functional BBB. Leakage in spock1 mutants is associated with altered extracellular matrix (ECM), increased endothelial transcytosis, and altered pericyte-endothelial interactions. Furthermore, a single dose of recombinant SPOCK1 partially restores BBB function in spock1 mutants by quenching gelatinase activity and restoring vascular expression of BBB genes including mcamb. These analyses support a model in which neuronally secreted Spock1 initiates BBB properties by altering the ECM, thereby regulating pericyte-endothelial interactions and downstream vascular gene expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natasha M O'Brown
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard Medical School, 200 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Nikit B Patel
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard Medical School, 200 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ursula Hartmann
- Center for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 52, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Allon M Klein
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard Medical School, 200 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Chenghua Gu
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Sean G Megason
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard Medical School, 200 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Tworak A, Kolesnikov AV, Hong JD, Choi EH, Luu JC, Palczewska G, Dong Z, Lewandowski D, Brooks MJ, Campello L, Swaroop A, Kiser PD, Kefalov VJ, Palczewski K. Rapid RGR-dependent visual pigment recycling is mediated by the RPE and specialized Müller glia. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112982. [PMID: 37585292 PMCID: PMC10530494 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In daylight, demand for visual chromophore (11-cis-retinal) exceeds supply by the classical visual cycle. This shortfall is compensated, in part, by the retinal G-protein-coupled receptor (RGR) photoisomerase, which is expressed in both the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and in Müller cells. The relative contributions of these two cellular pools of RGR to the maintenance of photoreceptor light responses are not known. Here, we use a cell-specific gene reactivation approach to elucidate the kinetics of RGR-mediated recovery of photoreceptor responses following light exposure. Electroretinographic measurements in mice with RGR expression limited to either cell type reveal that the RPE and a specialized subset of Müller glia contribute both to scotopic and photopic function. We demonstrate that 11-cis-retinal formed through photoisomerization is rapidly hydrolyzed, consistent with its role in a rapid visual pigment regeneration process. Our study shows that RGR provides a pan-retinal sink for all-trans-retinal released under sustained light conditions and supports rapid chromophore regeneration through the photic visual cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksander Tworak
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
| | - Alexander V Kolesnikov
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - John D Hong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Elliot H Choi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Jennings C Luu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Grazyna Palczewska
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Polgenix, Inc., Department of Medical Devices, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Zhiqian Dong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Dominik Lewandowski
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Matthew J Brooks
- Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Laura Campello
- Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Anand Swaroop
- Neurobiology, Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Philip D Kiser
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Physiology & Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Clinical Pharmacy Practice, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Research Service, VA Long Beach Healthcare System, Long Beach, CA 90822, USA
| | - Vladimir J Kefalov
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Physiology & Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Krzysztof Palczewski
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Physiology & Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Zhang L, Abedin M, Jo HN, Levey J, Dinh QC, Chen Z, Angers S, Junge HJ. A Frizzled4-LRP5 agonist promotes blood-retina barrier function by inducing a Norrin-like transcriptional response. iScience 2023; 26:107415. [PMID: 37559903 PMCID: PMC10407957 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Norrin (NDP) and WNT7A/B induce and maintain the blood-brain and blood-retina barrier (BBB, BRB) by stimulating the Frizzled4-LDL receptor related protein 5/6 (FZD4-LRP5/6) complex to induce beta-catenin-dependent signaling in endothelial cells (ECs). Recently developed agonists for the FZD4-LRP5 complex have therapeutic potential in retinal and neurological diseases. Here, we use the tetravalent antibody modality F4L5.13 to identify agonist activities in Tspan12-/- mice, which display a complex retinal pathology due to impaired NDP-signaling. F4L5.13 administration during development alleviates BRB defects, retinal hypovascularization, and restores neural function. In mature Tspan12-/- mice F4L5.13 partially induces a BRB de novo without inducing angiogenesis. In a genetic model of impaired BRB maintenance, administration of F4L5.13 rapidly and substantially restores the BRB. scRNA-seq reveals perturbations of key mediators of barrier functions in juvenile Tspan12-/- mice, which are in large parts restored after F4L5.13 administration. This study identifies transcriptional and functional activities of FZD4-LRP5 agonists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Md. Abedin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Ha-Neul Jo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Graduate Program in Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology and Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Jacklyn Levey
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Graduate Program in Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology and Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Quynh Chau Dinh
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Zhe Chen
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Stephane Angers
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Harald J. Junge
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Graduate Program in Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology and Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Yang JM, Kim SJ, Park S, Son W, Kim A, Lee J. Exosomal miR-184 in the aqueous humor of patients with central serous chorioretinopathy: a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:242. [PMID: 37507708 PMCID: PMC10375666 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02019-6] [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: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) is the fourth most prevalent retinal disease leading to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinal atrophy. However, CSC's pathogenesis and therapeutic target need to be better understood. RESULTS We investigated exosomal microRNA in the aqueous humor of CSC patients using next-generation sequencing (NGS) to identify potential biomarkers associated with CSC pathogenesis. Bioinformatic evaluations and NGS were performed on exosomal miRNAs obtained from AH samples of 62 eyes (42 CSC and 20 controls). For subgroup analysis, patients were divided into treatment responders (CSC-R, 17 eyes) and non-responders (CSC-NR, 25 eyes). To validate the functions of miRNA in CECs, primary cultured-human choroidal endothelial cells (hCEC) of the donor eyes were utilized for in vitro assays. NGS detected 376 miRNAs. Our results showed that patients with CSC had 12 significantly upregulated and 17 downregulated miRNAs compared to controls. miR-184 was significantly upregulated in CSC-R and CSC-NR patients compared to controls and higher in CSC-NR than CSC-R. In vitro assays using primary cultured-human choroidal endothelial cells (hCEC) demonstrated that miR-184 suppressed the proliferation and migration of hCECs. STC2 was identified as a strong candidate for the posttranscriptional down-regulated target gene of miR-184. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that exosomal miR-184 may serve as a biomarker reflecting the angiostatic capacity of CEC in patients with CSC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jee Myung Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Asan Medical Center, College of Medicine, University of Ulsan, 88, Olympic-Ro 43-Gil, Songpa-Gu, Seoul, 05505, South Korea
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dongguk University Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, South Korea
| | - Soo Jin Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Asan Medical Center, College of Medicine, University of Ulsan, 88, Olympic-Ro 43-Gil, Songpa-Gu, Seoul, 05505, South Korea
- Department of Medical Science, Asan Medical Center, AMIST, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Translational Biomedical Research Group, Asan Institute for Life Science, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | | | - Wonyung Son
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Anna Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Junyeop Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Asan Medical Center, College of Medicine, University of Ulsan, 88, Olympic-Ro 43-Gil, Songpa-Gu, Seoul, 05505, South Korea.
- Department of Medical Science, Asan Medical Center, AMIST, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
- Translational Biomedical Research Group, Asan Institute for Life Science, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Shah R, Amador C, Chun ST, Ghiam S, Saghizadeh M, Kramerov AA, Ljubimov AV. Non-canonical Wnt signaling in the eye. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 95:101149. [PMID: 36443219 PMCID: PMC10209355 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Wnt signaling comprises a group of complex signal transduction pathways that play critical roles in cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis during development, as well as in stem cell maintenance and adult tissue homeostasis. Wnt pathways are classified into two major groups, canonical (β-catenin-dependent) or non-canonical (β-catenin-independent). Most previous studies in the eye have focused on canonical Wnt signaling, and the role of non-canonical signaling remains poorly understood. Additionally, the crosstalk between canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling in the eye has hardly been explored. In this review, we present an overview of available data on ocular non-canonical Wnt signaling, including developmental and functional aspects in different eye compartments. We also discuss important changes of this signaling in various ocular conditions, such as keratoconus, aniridia-related keratopathy, diabetes, age-related macular degeneration, optic nerve damage, pathological angiogenesis, and abnormalities in the trabecular meshwork and conjunctival cells, and limbal stem cell deficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruchi Shah
- Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Regenerative Medicine Institute Eye Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Cynthia Amador
- Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Regenerative Medicine Institute Eye Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Steven T Chun
- Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Regenerative Medicine Institute Eye Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sean Ghiam
- Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Regenerative Medicine Institute Eye Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Sackler School of Medicine, New York State/American Program of Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Mehrnoosh Saghizadeh
- Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Regenerative Medicine Institute Eye Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Andrei A Kramerov
- Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Regenerative Medicine Institute Eye Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alexander V Ljubimov
- Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Regenerative Medicine Institute Eye Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Neurosurgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Ding J, Lee SJ, Vlahos L, Yuki K, Rada CC, van Unen V, Vuppalapaty M, Chen H, Sura A, McCormick AK, Tomaske M, Alwahabi S, Nguyen H, Nowatzke W, Kim L, Kelly L, Vollrath D, Califano A, Yeh WC, Li Y, Kuo CJ. Therapeutic blood-brain barrier modulation and stroke treatment by a bioengineered FZD 4-selective WNT surrogate in mice. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2947. [PMID: 37268690 PMCID: PMC10238527 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37689-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Derangements of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) or blood-retinal barrier (BRB) occur in disorders ranging from stroke, cancer, diabetic retinopathy, and Alzheimer's disease. The Norrin/FZD4/TSPAN12 pathway activates WNT/β-catenin signaling, which is essential for BBB and BRB function. However, systemic pharmacologic FZD4 stimulation is hindered by obligate palmitoylation and insolubility of native WNTs and suboptimal properties of the FZD4-selective ligand Norrin. Here, we develop L6-F4-2, a non-lipidated, FZD4-specific surrogate which significantly improves subpicomolar affinity versus native Norrin. In Norrin knockout (NdpKO) mice, L6-F4-2 not only potently reverses neonatal retinal angiogenesis deficits, but also restores BRB and BBB function. In adult C57Bl/6J mice, post-stroke systemic delivery of L6-F4-2 strongly reduces BBB permeability, infarction, and edema, while improving neurologic score and capillary pericyte coverage. Our findings reveal systemic efficacy of a bioengineered FZD4-selective WNT surrogate during ischemic BBB dysfunction, with potential applicability to adult CNS disorders characterized by an aberrant blood-brain barrier.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Ding
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Sung-Jin Lee
- Surrozen, Inc. South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Lukas Vlahos
- Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University, Columbia, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Kanako Yuki
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Cara C Rada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Vincent van Unen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Institute for Immunity, Transplantation and Infection, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | | | - Hui Chen
- Surrozen, Inc. South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Asmiti Sura
- Surrozen, Inc. South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Aaron K McCormick
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Madeline Tomaske
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Samira Alwahabi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Huy Nguyen
- Surrozen, Inc. South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - William Nowatzke
- Surrozen, Inc. South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Lily Kim
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Lisa Kelly
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Douglas Vollrath
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Andrea Califano
- Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University, Columbia, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Wen-Chen Yeh
- Surrozen, Inc. South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Yang Li
- Surrozen, Inc. South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Calvin J Kuo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Denzer L, Muranyi W, Schroten H, Schwerk C. The role of PLVAP in endothelial cells. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 392:393-412. [PMID: 36781482 PMCID: PMC10172233 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-023-03741-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Endothelial cells play a major part in the regulation of vascular permeability and angiogenesis. According to their duty to fit the needs of the underlying tissue, endothelial cells developed different subtypes with specific endothelial microdomains as caveolae, fenestrae and transendothelial channels which regulate nutrient exchange, leukocyte migration, and permeability. These microdomains can exhibit diaphragms that are formed by the endothelial cell-specific protein plasmalemma vesicle-associated protein (PLVAP), the only known protein component of these diaphragms. Several studies displayed an involvement of PLVAP in diseases as cancer, traumatic spinal cord injury, acute ischemic brain disease, transplant glomerulopathy, Norrie disease and diabetic retinopathy. Besides an upregulation of PLVAP expression within these diseases, pro-angiogenic or pro-inflammatory responses were observed. On the other hand, loss of PLVAP in knockout mice leads to premature mortality due to disrupted homeostasis. Generally, PLVAP is considered as a major factor influencing the permeability of endothelial cells and, finally, to be involved in the regulation of vascular permeability. Following these observations, PLVAP is debated as a novel therapeutic target with respect to the different vascular beds and tissues. In this review, we highlight the structure and functions of PLVAP in different endothelial types in health and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lea Denzer
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Walter Muranyi
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Horst Schroten
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christian Schwerk
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Rada CC, Yuki K, Ding J, Kuo CJ. Regulation of the Blood-Brain Barrier in Health and Disease. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2023; 13:a041191. [PMID: 36987582 PMCID: PMC10691497 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
The neurovascular unit is a dynamic microenvironment with tightly controlled signaling and transport coordinated by the blood-brain barrier (BBB). A properly functioning BBB allows sufficient movement of ions and macromolecules to meet the high metabolic demand of the central nervous system (CNS), while protecting the brain from pathogenic and noxious insults. This review describes the main cell types comprising the BBB and unique molecular signatures of these cells. Additionally, major signaling pathways for BBB development and maintenance are highlighted. Finally, we describe the pathophysiology of BBB diseases, their relationship to barrier dysfunction, and identify avenues for therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cara C Rada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - Kanako Yuki
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - Jie Ding
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - Calvin J Kuo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Li C, Saliba NB, Martin H, Losurdo NA, Kolahdouzan K, Siddiqui R, Medeiros D, Li W. Purkinje cell dopaminergic inputs to astrocytes regulate cerebellar-dependent behavior. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1613. [PMID: 36959176 PMCID: PMC10036610 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37319-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Dopamine has a significant role in motor and cognitive function. The dopaminergic pathways originating from the midbrain have received the most attention; however, the relevance of the cerebellar dopaminergic system is largely undiscovered. Here, we show that the major cerebellar astrocyte type Bergmann glial cells express D1 receptors. Dopamine can be synthesized in Purkinje cells by cytochrome P450 and released in an activity-dependent fashion. We demonstrate that activation of D1 receptors induces membrane depolarization and Ca2+ release from the internal store. These astrocytic activities in turn modify Purkinje cell output by altering its excitatory and inhibitory synaptic input. Lastly, we show that conditional knockout of D1 receptors in Bergmann glial cells results in decreased locomotor activity and impaired social activity. These results contribute to the understanding of the molecular, cellular, and circuit mechanisms underlying dopamine function in the cerebellum, revealing a critical role for the cerebellar dopaminergic system in motor and social behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang Li
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Natalie B Saliba
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Hannah Martin
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Nicole A Losurdo
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Neuroscience Program, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Kian Kolahdouzan
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Riyan Siddiqui
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Destynie Medeiros
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Wälchli T, Bisschop J, Carmeliet P, Zadeh G, Monnier PP, De Bock K, Radovanovic I. Shaping the brain vasculature in development and disease in the single-cell era. Nat Rev Neurosci 2023; 24:271-298. [PMID: 36941369 PMCID: PMC10026800 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-023-00684-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
The CNS critically relies on the formation and proper function of its vasculature during development, adult homeostasis and disease. Angiogenesis - the formation of new blood vessels - is highly active during brain development, enters almost complete quiescence in the healthy adult brain and is reactivated in vascular-dependent brain pathologies such as brain vascular malformations and brain tumours. Despite major advances in the understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms driving angiogenesis in peripheral tissues, developmental signalling pathways orchestrating angiogenic processes in the healthy and the diseased CNS remain incompletely understood. Molecular signalling pathways of the 'neurovascular link' defining common mechanisms of nerve and vessel wiring have emerged as crucial regulators of peripheral vascular growth, but their relevance for angiogenesis in brain development and disease remains largely unexplored. Here we review the current knowledge of general and CNS-specific mechanisms of angiogenesis during brain development and in brain vascular malformations and brain tumours, including how key molecular signalling pathways are reactivated in vascular-dependent diseases. We also discuss how these topics can be studied in the single-cell multi-omics era.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Wälchli
- Group of CNS Angiogenesis and Neurovascular Link, Neuroscience Center Zurich, and Division of Neurosurgery, University and University Hospital Zurich, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Division of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Group of Brain Vasculature and Perivascular Niche, Division of Experimental and Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Jeroen Bisschop
- Group of CNS Angiogenesis and Neurovascular Link, Neuroscience Center Zurich, and Division of Neurosurgery, University and University Hospital Zurich, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Division of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Group of Brain Vasculature and Perivascular Niche, Division of Experimental and Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Peter Carmeliet
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB & Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Heterogeneity, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Gelareh Zadeh
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Philippe P Monnier
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Donald K. Johnson Research Institute, Krembil Research Institute, Krembil Discovery Tower, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Katrien De Bock
- Laboratory of Exercise and Health, Department of Health Science and Technology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ivan Radovanovic
- Group of Brain Vasculature and Perivascular Niche, Division of Experimental and Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Xie Y, Zhou J, Wang LL, Zhang CL, Chen B. New AAV tools fail to detect Neurod1-mediated neuronal conversion of Müller glia and astrocytes in vivo. EBioMedicine 2023; 90:104531. [PMID: 36947961 PMCID: PMC10033723 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reprogramming resident glial cells to convert them into neurons in vivo represents a potential therapeutic strategy that could replenish lost neurons, repair damaged neural circuits, and restore function. AAV (adeno-associated virus)-based expression systems are powerful tools for in vivo gene delivery in glia-to-neuron reprogramming, however, recent studies show that AAV-based gene delivery of Neurod1 into the mouse brain can cause severe leaky expression into endogenous neurons leading to misinterpretation of glia-to-neuron conversion. METHODS AAV-based delivery systems were modified for improved in vivo delivery of Neurod1, Math5, Ascl1, and Neurog2 in the adult mouse retina and brain. To examine whether bona fide glia-to-neuron conversion occurs, stringent fate mapping experiments were performed to trace the lineage of glial cells. FINDINGS The neuronal leakage is prevalent after AAV-GFAP-mediated delivery of Neurod1, Math5, Ascl1, and Neurog2. The transgene-dependent leakage cannot be corrected after lowering the AAV doses, using alterative AAV serotypes or injection routes. Importantly, we report the development of two new AAV-based tools that can significantly reduce neuronal leakage. Using the new AAV-based tools, we provide evidence that Neurod1 gene transfer fails to convert lineage traced glial cells into neurons. INTERPRETATION Stringent fate mapping techniques independently of an AAV-based expression system are the golden standard for tracing the fate of glia cells during neuronal reprogramming. The newly developed AAV-based systems are invaluable tools for glia-to-neuron reprogramming in vivo. FUNDING The work in Chen lab was supported by National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants R01 EY024986 and R01 EY028921, an unrestricted challenge grant from Research to Prevent Blindness, the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary Foundation, and The Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Family Foundation for Vision Research. The work in Zhang lab was supported by NIH (R01 NS127375 and R01 NS117065) and The Decherd Foundation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Jing Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Lei-Lei Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Chun-Li Zhang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Bo Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Cell, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Zhao R, Dai E, Wang S, Zhang X, He Y, Peng L, Zhao P, Yang Z, Yang M, Li S. A comprehensive functional analysis on the pathogenesis of novel TSPAN12 and NDP variants in familial exudative vitreoretinopathy. Clin Genet 2023; 103:320-329. [PMID: 36453149 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) is an inherited blinding disorder; however, the known FEVR-associated variants account for approximately only 50% cases. Currently, the pathogenesis of most reported variants is not well studied, we aim to identify novel variants from FEVR-associated genes and perform a comprehensive functional analysis to uncover the pathogenesis of variants that cause FEVR. Using targeted gene panel and Sanger sequencing, we identified six novel and three known variants in TSPAN12 and NDP. These variants were demonstrated to cause significant inhibition of Norrin/β-catenin pathway by dual-luciferase reporter assay and western blot analysis. Structural analysis and co-immunoprecipitation revealed compromised interactions between missense variants and binding partners in the Norrin/β-catenin pathway. Immunofluorescence and subcellular protein extraction were performed to reveal the abnormal subcellular trafficking. Additionally, over-expression of TSPAN12 successfully enhanced the Norrin/β-catenin signaling activity by strengthening the binding affinity of mutant Norrin with FZD4 or LRP5. Together, these observations expanded the spectrum of FEVR-associated variants for the genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis of FEVR, as well providing a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of FEVR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rulian Zhao
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Research Unit of Blindness Prevention, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2019RU026), Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Erkuan Dai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xin Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shiyuan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xin Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xin Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunqi He
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Research Unit of Blindness Prevention, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2019RU026), Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Peng
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Peiquan Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xin Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenglin Yang
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Research Unit of Blindness Prevention, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2019RU026), Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Mu Yang
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Research Unit of Blindness Prevention, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2019RU026), Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Shujin Li
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Research Unit of Blindness Prevention, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2019RU026), Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Chen Y, Wu C, Peng S, Guo D, Ouyang H, Wei Y, Ju R, Ding X, Xie Z, Liu C. Single-Cell Characterization of the Frizzled 5 (Fz5) Mutant Mouse and Human Persistent Fetal Vasculature (PFV). Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:8. [PMID: 36867129 PMCID: PMC9988703 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.3.8] [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] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Persistent fetal vasculature (PFV) is a pathological condition accounting for 4.8% of children's blindness in the United States. However, the PFV cell composition and pathogenetic mechanisms are poorly understood. This study aims to characterize PFV cell composition and associated molecular features and attempts to lay a foundation for further understanding the disease. Methods Immunohistochemistry was conducted to characterize cell types at the tissue level. Single-cell RNA sequencing (sc-RNAseq) was performed on the vitreous cells derived from normal and Fz5 mutant mice at two early postnatal ages and human PFV samples. Bioinformatic tools were used to cluster cells and analyze their molecular features and functions. Results The findings of this study are as follows: (1) a total of 10 defined and one undefined cell types were characterized in both the hyaloid vessel system and PFV by sc-RNAseq and immunohistochemistry; (2) neural crest-derived melanocytes, astrocytes, and fibroblasts were specifically retained in the mutant PFV; (3) Fz5 mutants were found to possess more vitreous cells at early postnatal age 3 but returned to similar levels as the wild type at postnatal age 6; (4) altered phagocytic and proliferation environments and cell-cell interactions were detected in the mutant vitreous; (5) the human PFV samples shared fibroblast, endothelial and macrophage cell types with the mouse, but having distinct immune cells including T cells, NK cells and Neutrophils; and last, (6) some neural crest features were also shared between certain mouse and human vitreous cell types. Conclusions We characterized PFV cell composition and associated molecular features in the Fz5 mutant mice and two human PFV samples. The excessively migrated vitreous cells, intrinsic molecular properties of these cells, phagocytic environment, and cell-cell interactions may together contribute to PFV pathogenesis. Human PFV shares certain cell types and molecular features with the mouse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shanzhen Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dianlei Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hong Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanhong Wei
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rong Ju
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunqiao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Novel Exon 7 Deletions in TSPAN12 in a Three-Generation FEVR Family: A Case Report and Literature Review. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14030587. [PMID: 36980859 PMCID: PMC10047926 DOI: 10.3390/genes14030587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) is a severe clinically and genetically heterogeneous disease that is characterized by vascular disorder. FEVR exhibits strikingly variable clinical phenotypes, ranging from asymptomatic to total blindness. In this case, we present a patient who was first treated as having high myopia and retinopathy but was finally diagnosed with FEVR caused by the heterozygous deletion of exon 7 in TSPAN12 with the aid of whole genome sequencing (WGS). Typical vascular changes, including vascular leakage and an avascular zone in the peripheral retina, were observed in the proband using fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA), and the macular dragging was shown to be progressing in the follow-up visit. Furthermore, the proband showed unreported TSPAN12-related phenotypes of FEVR: ERG (full-field electroretinogram) abnormalities and retinoschisis. Only mild vascular changes were exhibited in the FFA for the other three family members who carried the same deletion of exon 7 in TSPAN12. This case expands our understanding of the phenotype resulting from TSPAN12 mutations and signifies the importance of combining both clinical and molecular analysis approaches to establish a complete diagnosis.
Collapse
|
49
|
He Y, Yang M, Zhao R, Peng L, Dai E, Huang L, Zhao P, Li S, Yang Z. Novel truncating variants in CTNNB1 cause familial exudative vitreoretinopathy. J Med Genet 2023; 60:174-182. [PMID: 35361685 DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2021-108259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) is an inheritable blinding disorder with clinical and genetic heterogeneity. Heterozygous variants in the CTNNB1 gene have been reported to cause FEVR. However, the pathogenic basis of CTNNB1-associated FEVR has not been fully explored. METHODS Whole-exome sequencing was performed on the genomic DNA of probands. Dual-luciferase reporter assay, western blotting and co-immunoprecipitation were used to characterise the impacts of variants. Quantitative real-time PCR, EdU (5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine) incorporation assay and immunocytochemistry were performed on the primary human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRECs) to investigate the effect of CTNNB1 depletion on the downstream genes involved in Norrin/β-catenin signalling, cell proliferation and junctional integrity, respectively. Transendothelial electrical resistance assay was applied to measure endothelial permeability. Heterozygous endothelial-specific Ctnnb1-knockout mouse mice were generated to verify FEVR-like phenotypes in the retina. RESULTS We identified two novel heterozygous variants (p.Leu103Ter and p.Val199LeufsTer11) and one previously reported heterozygous variant (p.His369ThrfsTer2) in the CTNNB1 gene. These variants caused truncation and degradation of β-catenin that reduced Norrin/β-catenin signalling activity. Additionally, knockdown (KD) of CTNNB1 in HRECs led to diminished mRNA levels of Norrin/β-catenin targeted genes, reduced cell proliferation and compromised junctional integrity. The Cre-mediated heterozygous deletion of Ctnnb1 in mouse endothelial cells (ECs) resulted in FEVR-like phenotypes. Moreover, LiCl treatment partially rescued the defects in CTNNB1-KD HRECs and EC-specific Ctnnb1 heterozygous knockout mice. CONCLUSION Our findings reinforced the current pathogenesis of Norrin/β-catenin for FEVR and expanded the causative variant spectrum of CTNNB1 for the prenatal diagnosis and genetic counselling of FEVR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunqi He
- Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, the Department of Medical Genetics, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Research Unit for Blindness Prevention of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026), Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Mu Yang
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, the Department of Medical Genetics, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Research Unit for Blindness Prevention of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026), Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Rulian Zhao
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, the Department of Medical Genetics, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Research Unit for Blindness Prevention of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026), Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Peng
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, the Department of Medical Genetics, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Research Unit for Blindness Prevention of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026), Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Erkuan Dai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xin Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lulin Huang
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, the Department of Medical Genetics, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Research Unit for Blindness Prevention of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026), Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Peiquan Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xin Hua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shujin Li
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, the Department of Medical Genetics, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China .,Research Unit for Blindness Prevention of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026), Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhenglin Yang
- Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, Sichuan, China .,Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, the Department of Medical Genetics, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Research Unit for Blindness Prevention of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026), Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Furtado J, Geraldo LH, Leser FS, Poulet M, Park H, Pibouin-Fragner L, Eichmann A, Boyé K. Netrin-1 binding to Unc5B regulates Blood-Retina Barrier integrity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.21.525006. [PMID: 36711611 PMCID: PMC9882365 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.21.525006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Background The blood brain barrier (BBB) preserves neuronal function in the central nervous system (CNS) by tightly controlling metabolite exchanges with the blood. In the eye, the retina is likewise protected by the blood-retina barrier (BRB) to maintain phototransduction. We showed that the secreted guidance cue Netrin-1 regulated BBB integrity, by binding to endothelial Unc5B and regulating canonical β-catenin dependent expression of BBB gene expression. Objective Here, we investigated if Netrin-1-binding to endothelial Unc5B also controlled BRB integrity, and if this process involved Norrin/β-catenin signaling, which is the major known driver of BRB development and maintenance. Methods We analyzed Tamoxifen-inducible loss- and gain- of-function alleles of Unc5B, Ntn1 and Ctnnb1 in conjunction with tracer injections and biochemical signaling studies. Results Inducible endothelial Unc5B deletion, and inducible global Ntn1 deletion in postnatal mice reduced phosphorylation of the Norrin receptor LRP5, leading to reduced β-catenin and LEF1 expression, conversion of retina endothelial cells from a barrier-competent Claudin-5+/PLVAP- state to a Claudin-5-/PLVAP+ leaky phenotype, and extravasation of injected low molecular weight tracers. Inducible Ctnnb1 gain of function rescued vascular leak in Unc5B mutants, and Ntn1 overexpression induced BRB tightening. Unc5B expression in pericytes contributed to BRB permeability, via regulation of endothelial Unc5B. Mechanistically, Netrin-1-Unc5B signaling promoted β-catenin dependent BRB signaling by enhancing phosphorylation of the Norrin receptor LRP5 via the Discs large homologue 1 (Dlg1) intracellular scaffolding protein. Conclusions The data identify Netrin1-Unc5B as novel regulators of BRB integrity, with implications for diseases associated with BRB disruption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Furtado
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
| | - Luiz Henrique Geraldo
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
| | | | - Mathilde Poulet
- Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Inserm U970, Université Paris, France
| | - Hyojin Park
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
| | | | - Anne Eichmann
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Inserm U970, Université Paris, France
| | - Kevin Boyé
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Inserm U970, Université Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|