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Lohr C, Beiersdorfer A, Fischer T, Hirnet D, Rotermund N, Sauer J, Schulz K, Gee CE. Using Genetically Encoded Calcium Indicators to Study Astrocyte Physiology: A Field Guide. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:690147. [PMID: 34177468 PMCID: PMC8226001 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.690147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Ca2+ imaging is the most frequently used technique to study glial cell physiology. While chemical Ca2+ indicators served to visualize and measure changes in glial cell cytosolic Ca2+ concentration for several decades, genetically encoded Ca2+ indicators (GECIs) have become state of the art in recent years. Great improvements have been made since the development of the first GECI and a large number of GECIs with different physical properties exist, rendering it difficult to select the optimal Ca2+ indicator. This review discusses some of the most frequently used GECIs and their suitability for glial cell research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Lohr
- Division of Neurophysiology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Timo Fischer
- Division of Neurophysiology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Hirnet
- Division of Neurophysiology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Natalie Rotermund
- Division of Neurophysiology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jessica Sauer
- Division of Neurophysiology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kristina Schulz
- Division of Neurophysiology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christine E Gee
- Institute of Synaptic Physiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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2
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Peng Q, Weng K, Li S, Xu R, Wang Y, Wu Y. A Perspective of Epigenetic Regulation in Radiotherapy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:624312. [PMID: 33681204 PMCID: PMC7930394 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.624312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiation therapy (RT) has been employed as a tumoricidal modality for more than 100 years and on 470,000 patients each year in the United States. The ionizing radiation causes genetic changes and results in cell death. However, since the biological mechanism of radiation remains unclear, there is a pressing need to understand this mechanism to improve the killing effect on tumors and reduce the side effects on normal cells. DNA break and epigenetic remodeling can be induced by radiotherapy. Hence the modulation of histone modification enzymes may tune the radiosensitivity of cancer cells. For instance, histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors sensitize irradiated cancer cells by amplifying the DNA damage signaling and inhibiting double-strand DNA break repair to influence the irradiated cells’ survival. However, the combination of epigenetic drugs and radiotherapy has only been evaluated in several ongoing clinical trials for limited cancer types, partly due to a lack of knowledge on the potential mechanisms on how radiation induces epigenetic regulation and chromatin remodeling. Here, we review recent advances of radiotherapy and radiotherapy-induced epigenetic remodeling and introduce related technologies for epigenetic monitoring. Particularly, we exploit the application of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) biosensors to visualize dynamic epigenetic regulations in single living cells and tissue upon radiotherapy and drug treatment. We aim to bridge FRET biosensor, epigenetics, and radiotherapy, providing a perspective of using FRET to assess epigenetics and provide guidance for radiotherapy to improve cancer treatment. In the end, we discuss the feasibility of a combination of epigenetic drugs and radiotherapy as new approaches for cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Peng
- Institute of Systems and Physical Biology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States.,Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Kegui Weng
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States.,Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States.,Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing Cancer Institute, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Shitian Li
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States.,Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Richard Xu
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States.,Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Yingxiao Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States.,Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Yongzhong Wu
- Chongqing Cancer Hospital, Chongqing Cancer Institute, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
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3
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Liang Y, Walczak P. Long term intravital single cell tracking under multiphoton microscopy. J Neurosci Methods 2020; 349:109042. [PMID: 33340557 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2020.109042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Visualizing and tracking cells over time in a living organism has been a much-coveted dream before the invention of intravital microscopy. The opaque nature of tissue was a major hurdle that was remedied by the multiphoton microscopy. With the advancement of optical imaging and fluorescent labeling tools, intravital high resolution imaging has become increasingly accessible over the past few years. Long-term intravital tracking of single cells (LIST) under multiphoton microscopy provides a unique opportunity to gain insight into the longitudinal changes in the morphology, migration, or function of cells or subcellular structures. It is particularly suitable for studying slow-evolving cellular and molecular events during normal development or disease progression, without losing the opportunity of catching fast events such as calcium signals. Here, we review the application of LIST under 2-photon microscopy in various fields of neurobiology and discuss challenges and new directions in labeling and imaging methods for LIST. Overall, this review provides an overview of current applications of LIST in mammals, which is an emerging field that will contribute to a better understanding of essential molecular and cellular events in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajie Liang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Piotr Walczak
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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4
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Liu L, He F, Yu Y, Wang Y. Application of FRET Biosensors in Mechanobiology and Mechanopharmacological Screening. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:595497. [PMID: 33240867 PMCID: PMC7680962 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.595497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Extensive studies have shown that cells can sense and modulate the biomechanical properties of the ECM within their resident microenvironment. Thus, targeting the mechanotransduction signaling pathways provides a promising way for disease intervention. However, how cells perceive these mechanical cues of the microenvironment and transduce them into biochemical signals remains to be answered. Förster or fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) based biosensors are a powerful tool that can be used in live-cell mechanotransduction imaging and mechanopharmacological drug screening. In this review, we will first introduce FRET principle and FRET biosensors, and then, recent advances on the integration of FRET biosensors and mechanobiology in normal and pathophysiological conditions will be discussed. Furthermore, we will summarize the current applications and limitations of FRET biosensors in high-throughput drug screening and the future improvement of FRET biosensors. In summary, FRET biosensors have provided a powerful tool for mechanobiology studies to advance our understanding of how cells and matrices interact, and the mechanopharmacological screening for disease intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yingxiao Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
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5
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Rabah Y, Rubino B, Moukarzel E, Agulhon C. Characterization of transgenic mouse lines for selectively targeting satellite glial cells and macrophages in dorsal root ganglia. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229475. [PMID: 32915783 PMCID: PMC7485865 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The importance of glial cells in the modulation of neuronal processes is now generally accepted. In particular, enormous progress in our understanding of astrocytes and microglia physiology in the central nervous system (CNS) has been made in recent years, due to the development of genetic and molecular toolkits. However, the roles of satellite glial cells (SGCs) and macrophages-the peripheral counterparts of astrocytes and microglia-remain poorly studied despite their involvement in debilitating conditions, such as pain. Here, we characterized in dorsal root ganglia (DRGs), different genetically-modified mouse lines previously used for studying astrocytes and microglia, with the goal to implement them for investigating DRG SGC and macrophage functions. Although SGCs and astrocytes share some molecular properties, most tested transgenic lines were found to not be suitable for studying selectively a large number of SGCs within DRGs. Nevertheless, we identified and validated two mouse lines: (i) a CreERT2 recombinase-based mouse line allowing transgene expression almost exclusively in SGCs and in the vast majority of SGCs, and (ii) a GFP-expressing line allowing the selective visualization of macrophages. In conclusion, among the tools available for exploring astrocyte functions, a few can be used for studying selectively a great proportion of SGCs. Thus, efforts remain to be made to characterize other available mouse lines as well as to develop, rigorously characterize and validate new molecular tools to investigate the roles of DRG SGCs, but also macrophages, in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmine Rabah
- Integrative Neuroscience and Cognition Center (CNRS UMR8002), Glia-Glia & Glia-Neuron Interactions Laboratory, Faculty of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Bruna Rubino
- Integrative Neuroscience and Cognition Center (CNRS UMR8002), Glia-Glia & Glia-Neuron Interactions Laboratory, Faculty of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Elsie Moukarzel
- Integrative Neuroscience and Cognition Center (CNRS UMR8002), Glia-Glia & Glia-Neuron Interactions Laboratory, Faculty of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Cendra Agulhon
- Integrative Neuroscience and Cognition Center (CNRS UMR8002), Glia-Glia & Glia-Neuron Interactions Laboratory, Faculty of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
- * E-mail:
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6
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Semyanov A, Henneberger C, Agarwal A. Making sense of astrocytic calcium signals — from acquisition to interpretation. Nat Rev Neurosci 2020; 21:551-564. [DOI: 10.1038/s41583-020-0361-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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7
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Gammon ST, Liu TW, Piwnica-Worms D. Interrogating Cellular Communication in Cancer with Genetically Encoded Imaging Reporters. Radiol Imaging Cancer 2020; 2:e190053. [PMID: 32803164 PMCID: PMC7398120 DOI: 10.1148/rycan.2020190053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Cells continuously communicate changes in their microenvironment, both locally and globally, with other cells in the organism. Integration of information arising from signaling networks impart continuous, time-dependent changes of cell function and phenotype. Use of genetically encoded reporters enable researchers to noninvasively monitor time-dependent changes in intercellular and intracellular signaling, which can be interrogated by macroscopic and microscopic optical imaging, nuclear medicine imaging, MRI, and even photoacoustic imaging techniques. Reporters enable noninvasive monitoring of changes in cell-to-cell proximity, transcription, translation, protein folding, protein association, protein degradation, drug action, and second messengers in real time. Because of their positive impact on preclinical research, attempts to improve the sensitivity and specificity of these reporters, and to develop new types and classes of reporters, remain an active area of investigation. A few reporters have migrated to proof-of-principle clinical demonstrations, and recent advances in genome editing technologies may enable the use of reporters in the context of genome-wide analysis and the imaging of complex genomic regulation in vivo that cannot be readily investigated through standard methodologies. The combination of genetically encoded imaging reporters with continuous improvements in other molecular biology techniques may enhance and expedite target discovery and drug development for cancer interventions and treatment. © RSNA, 2020.
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Terai K, Imanishi A, Li C, Matsuda M. Two Decades of Genetically Encoded Biosensors Based on Förster Resonance Energy Transfer. Cell Struct Funct 2019; 44:153-169. [DOI: 10.1247/csf.18035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Terai
- Laboratory of Bioimaging and Cell Signaling, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University
- Research Center for Dynamic Living Systems, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University
| | - Ayako Imanishi
- Laboratory of Bioimaging and Cell Signaling, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University
| | - Chunjie Li
- Laboratory of Bioimaging and Cell Signaling, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University
| | - Michiyuki Matsuda
- Laboratory of Bioimaging and Cell Signaling, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University
- Research Center for Dynamic Living Systems, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University
- Department of Pathology and Biology of Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University
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9
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Thy1 transgenic mice expressing the red fluorescent calcium indicator jRGECO1a for neuronal population imaging in vivo. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0205444. [PMID: 30308007 PMCID: PMC6181368 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0205444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium imaging is commonly used to measure the neural activity of large groups of neurons in mice. Genetically encoded calcium indicators (GECIs) can be delivered for this purpose using non-invasive genetic methods. Compared to viral gene transfer, transgenic targeting of GECIs provides stable long-term expression and obviates the need for invasive viral injections. Transgenic mice expressing the green GECI GCaMP6 are already widely used. Here we present the generation and characterization of transgenic mice expressing the sensitive red GECI jRGECO1a, driven by the Thy1 promoter. Four transgenic lines with different expression patterns showed sufficiently high expression for cellular in vivo imaging. We used two-photon microscopy to characterize visual responses of individual neurons in the visual cortex in vivo. The signal-to-noise ratio in transgenic mice was comparable to, or better than, mice transduced with adeno-associated virus. In addition, we show that Thy1-jRGECO1a transgenic mice are useful for transcranial population imaging and functional mapping using widefield fluorescence microscopy. We also demonstrate imaging of visual responses in retinal ganglion cells in vitro. Thy1-jRGECO1a transgenic mice are therefore a useful addition to the toolbox for imaging activity in intact neural networks.
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10
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Neuronal Activity-Dependent Activation of Astroglial Calcineurin in Mouse Primary Hippocampal Cultures. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19102997. [PMID: 30274399 PMCID: PMC6213389 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19102997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes respond to neuronal activity by generating calcium signals which are implicated in the regulation of astroglial housekeeping functions and/or in modulation of synaptic transmission. We hypothesized that activity-induced calcium signals in astrocytes may activate calcineurin (CaN), a calcium/calmodulin-regulated protein phosphatase, implicated in neuropathology, but whose role in astroglial physiology remains unclear. We used a lentiviral vector expressing NFAT-EYFP (NY) fluorescent calcineurin sensor and a chemical protocol of LTP induction (cLTP) to show that, in mixed neuron-astrocytic hippocampal cultures, cLTP induced robust NY translocation into astrocyte nuclei and, hence, CaN activation. NY translocation was abolished by the CaN inhibitor FK506, and was not observed in pure astroglial cultures. Using Fura-2 single cell calcium imaging, we found sustained Ca2+ elevations in juxtaneuronal, but not distal, astrocytes. Pharmacological analysis revealed that both the Ca2+ signals and the nuclear NY translocation in astrocytes required NMDA and mGluR5 receptors and depended on extracellular Ca2+ entry via a store-operated mechanism. Our results provide a proof of principle that calcineurin in astrocytes may be activated in response to neuronal activity, thereby delineating a framework for investigating the role of astroglial CaN in the physiology of central nervous system.
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11
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Stobart JL, Ferrari KD, Barrett MJP, Stobart MJ, Looser ZJ, Saab AS, Weber B. Long-term In Vivo Calcium Imaging of Astrocytes Reveals Distinct Cellular Compartment Responses to Sensory Stimulation. Cereb Cortex 2018; 28:184-198. [PMID: 28968832 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhw366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Localized, heterogeneous calcium transients occur throughout astrocytes, but the characteristics and long-term stability of these signals, particularly in response to sensory stimulation, remain unknown. Here, we used a genetically encoded calcium indicator and an activity-based image analysis scheme to monitor astrocyte calcium activity in vivo. We found that different subcellular compartments (processes, somata, and endfeet) displayed distinct signaling characteristics. Closer examination of individual signals showed that sensory stimulation elevated the number of specific types of calcium peaks within astrocyte processes and somata, in a cortical layer-dependent manner, and that the signals became more synchronous upon sensory stimulation. Although mice genetically lacking astrocytic IP3R-dependent calcium signaling (Ip3r2-/-) had fewer signal peaks, the response to sensory stimulation was sustained, suggesting other calcium pathways are also involved. Long-term imaging of astrocyte populations revealed that all compartments reliably responded to stimulation over several months, but that the location of the response within processes may vary. These previously unknown characteristics of subcellular astrocyte calcium signals provide new insights into how astrocytes may encode local neuronal circuit activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian L Stobart
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kim David Ferrari
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthew J P Barrett
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael J Stobart
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Zoe J Looser
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Aiman S Saab
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bruno Weber
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
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12
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Abstract
Genetically encoded calcium indicators (GECIs) enable imaging of in vivo brain cell activity with high sensitivity and specificity. In contrast to viral infection or in utero electroporation, indicator expression in transgenic reporter lines is induced noninvasively, reliably, and homogenously. Recently, Cre/tTA-dependent reporter mice were introduced, which provide high-level expression of green fluorescent GECIs in a cell-type-specific and inducible manner when crossed with Cre and tTA driver mice. Here, we generated and characterized the first red-shifted GECI reporter line of this type using R-CaMP1.07, a red fluorescent indicator that is efficiently two-photon excited above 1000 nm. By crossing the new R-CaMP1.07 reporter line to Cre lines driving layer-specific expression in neocortex we demonstrate its high fidelity for reporting action potential firing in vivo, long-term stability over months, and versatile use for functional imaging of excitatory neurons across all cortical layers, especially in the previously difficult to access layers 4 and 6.
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13
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Losi G, Mariotti L, Sessolo M, Carmignoto G. New Tools to Study Astrocyte Ca 2+ Signal Dynamics in Brain Networks In Vivo. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:134. [PMID: 28536505 PMCID: PMC5422467 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensory information processing is a fundamental operation in the brain that is based on dynamic interactions between different neuronal populations. Astrocytes, a type of glial cells, have been proposed to represent active elements of brain microcircuits that, through dynamic interactions with neurons, provide a modulatory control of neuronal network activity. Specifically, astrocytes in different brain regions have been described to respond to neuronal signals with intracellular Ca2+ elevations that represent a key step in the functional recruitment of astrocytes to specific brain circuits. Accumulating evidence shows that Ca2+ elevations regulate the release of gliotransmitters that, in turn, modulate synaptic transmission and neuronal excitability. Recent studies also provided new insights into the spatial and temporal features of astrocytic Ca2+ elevations revealing a surprising complexity of Ca2+ signal dynamics in astrocytes. Here we discuss how recently developed experimental tools such as the genetically encoded Ca2+ indicators (GECI), optogenetics and chemogenetics can be applied to the study of astrocytic Ca2+ signals in the living brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Losi
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR) and Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of PadovaPadova, Italy
| | - Letizia Mariotti
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR) and Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of PadovaPadova, Italy.,Division of Neurobiology, MRC Laboratory of Molecular BiologyCambridge, UK
| | - Michele Sessolo
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR) and Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of PadovaPadova, Italy.,Center for Drug Discovery & Development, Aptuit inc.Verona, Italy
| | - Giorgio Carmignoto
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR) and Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of PadovaPadova, Italy
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14
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Masgrau R, Guaza C, Ransohoff RM, Galea E. Should We Stop Saying 'Glia' and 'Neuroinflammation'? Trends Mol Med 2017; 23:486-500. [PMID: 28499701 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2017.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) therapeutics based on the theoretical framework of neuroinflammation have only barely succeeded. We argue that a problem may be the wrong use of the term 'neuroinflammation' as a distinct nosological entity when, based on recent evidence, it may not explain CNS disease pathology. Indeed, the terms 'neuroinflammation' and 'glia' could be obsolete. First, unbiased molecular profiling of CNS cell populations and individual cells reveals striking phenotypic heterogeneity in health and disease. Second, astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, and NG2 cells may contribute to higher-brain functions by performing actions beyond housekeeping. We propose that CNS diseases be viewed as failed circuits caused in part by disease-specific dysfunction of cells traditionally called 'glia', and hence, favor therapies promoting their functional recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roser Masgrau
- Institut de Neurociències and Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Unitat de Bioquímica de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Guaza
- Neuroimmunology Group, Functional and Systems Neurobiology Department, Instituto Cajal, Agencia Estatal del Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, España; Spanish Network of Multiple Sclerosis, RETICS, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, España
| | | | - Elena Galea
- Institut de Neurociències and Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Unitat de Bioquímica de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; ICREA, Pg. Lluís Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain.
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15
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Shigetomi E, Koizumi S. Visualization of diversity of calcium signals in astrocytes. Nihon Yakurigaku Zasshi 2017; 148:75-80. [PMID: 27478045 DOI: 10.1254/fpj.148.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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16
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Silva AC. Anatomical and functional neuroimaging in awake, behaving marmosets. Dev Neurobiol 2016; 77:373-389. [PMID: 27706916 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Revised: 09/28/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) is a small New World monkey that has gained significant recent interest in neuroscience research, not only because of its compatibility with gene editing techniques, but also due to its tremendous versatility as an experimental animal model. Neuroimaging modalities, including anatomical (MRI) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), complemented by two-photon laser scanning microscopy and electrophysiology, have been at the forefront of unraveling the anatomical and functional organization of the marmoset brain. High-resolution anatomical MRI of the marmoset brain can be obtained with remarkable cytoarchitectonic detail. Functional MRI of the marmoset brain has been used to study various sensory systems, including somatosensory, auditory, and visual pathways, while resting-state fMRI studies have unraveled functional brain networks that bear great correspondence to those previously described in humans. Two-photon laser scanning microscopy of the marmoset brain has enabled the simultaneous recording of neuronal activity from thousands of neurons with single cell spatial resolution. In this article, we aim to review the main results obtained by our group and by our colleagues in applying neuroimaging techniques to study the marmoset brain. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 77: 373-389, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afonso C Silva
- Cerebral Microcirculation Section, Laboratory of Functional and Molecular Imaging, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892
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17
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Park JE, Zhang XF, Choi SH, Okahara J, Sasaki E, Silva AC. Generation of transgenic marmosets expressing genetically encoded calcium indicators. Sci Rep 2016; 6:34931. [PMID: 27725685 PMCID: PMC5057151 DOI: 10.1038/srep34931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/20/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic monitoring of neuronal activity in the living brain with optical imaging techniques became feasible owing to the continued development of genetically encoded calcium indicators (GECIs). Here we report for the first time the successful generation of transgenic marmosets (Callithrix jacchus), an important nonhuman primate model in neurophysiological research, which were engineered to express the green fluorescent protein (GFP)-based family of GECIs, GCaMP, under control of either the CMV or the hSyn promoter. High titer lentiviral vectors were produced, and injected into embryos collected from donor females. The infected embryos were then transferred to recipient females. Eight transgenic animals were born and shown to have stable and functional GCaMP expression in several different tissues. Germline transmission of the transgene was confirmed in embryos generated from two of the founder transgenic marmosets that reached sexual maturity. These embryos were implanted into six recipient females, three of which became pregnant and are in advanced stages of gestation. We believe these transgenic marmosets will be invaluable non-human primate models in neuroscience, allowing chronic in vivo monitoring of neural activity with functional confocal and multi-photon optical microscopy imaging of intracellular calcium dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Eun Park
- Cerebral Microcirculation Section, Laboratory of Functional and Molecular Imaging, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Xian Feng Zhang
- Cerebral Microcirculation Section, Laboratory of Functional and Molecular Imaging, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sang-Ho Choi
- Cerebral Microcirculation Section, Laboratory of Functional and Molecular Imaging, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Junko Okahara
- Department of Applied Developmental Biology, Central Institute for Experimental Animals, Tonomachi, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 210-0821, Japan
| | - Erika Sasaki
- Department of Applied Developmental Biology, Central Institute for Experimental Animals, Tonomachi, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 210-0821, Japan.,Keio advanced Research Center, Keio University, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Afonso C Silva
- Cerebral Microcirculation Section, Laboratory of Functional and Molecular Imaging, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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18
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Shigetomi E, Patel S, Khakh BS. Probing the Complexities of Astrocyte Calcium Signaling. Trends Cell Biol 2016; 26:300-312. [PMID: 26896246 PMCID: PMC4946798 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2016.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Revised: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are abundant glial cells that tile the entire central nervous system and mediate well-established functions for neurons, blood vessels, and other glia. These ubiquitous cells display intracellular Ca(2+) signals, which have been intensely studied for 25 years. Recently, the use of improved methods has unearthed the panoply of astrocyte Ca(2+) signals and a variable landscape of basal Ca(2+) levels. In vivo studies have started to reveal the settings under which astrocytes display behaviorally relevant Ca(2+) signaling. Studies in mice have emphasized how astrocyte Ca(2+) signaling is altered in distinct neurodegenerative diseases. Progress in the past few years, fueled by methodological advances, has thus reignited interest in astrocyte Ca(2+) signaling for brain function and dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiji Shigetomi
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan
| | - Sandip Patel
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Baljit S Khakh
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA.
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19
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Abstract
Genetically-encoded fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) reporters are powerful tools to analyze cell signaling and function at single cell resolution in standard two-dimensional cell cultures, but these reporters rarely have been applied to three-dimensional environments. FRET interactions between donor and acceptor molecules typically are determined by changes in relative fluorescence intensities, but wavelength-dependent differences in absorption of light complicate this analysis method in three-dimensional settings. Here we report fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) with phasor analysis, a method that displays fluorescence lifetimes on a pixel-wise basis in real time, to quantify apoptosis in breast cancer cells stably expressing a genetically encoded FRET reporter. This microscopic imaging technology allowed us to identify treatment-induced apoptosis in single breast cancer cells in environments ranging from two-dimensional cell culture, spheroids with cancer and bone marrow stromal cells, and living mice with orthotopic human breast cancer xenografts. Using this imaging strategy, we showed that combined metabolic therapy targeting glycolysis and glutamine pathways significantly reduced overall breast cancer metabolism and induced apoptosis. We also determined that distinct subpopulations of bone marrow stromal cells control resistance of breast cancer cells to chemotherapy, suggesting heterogeneity of treatment responses of malignant cells in different bone marrow niches. Overall, this study establishes FLIM with phasor analysis as an imaging tool for apoptosis in cell-based assays and living mice, enabling real-time, cellular-level assessment of treatment efficacy and heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Gary D. Luker
- Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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20
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Diversity of astrocyte functions and phenotypes in neural circuits. Nat Neurosci 2015; 18:942-52. [PMID: 26108722 DOI: 10.1038/nn.4043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 749] [Impact Index Per Article: 83.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes tile the entire CNS. They are vital for neural circuit function, but have traditionally been viewed as simple, homogenous cells that serve the same essential supportive roles everywhere. Here, we summarize breakthroughs that instead indicate that astrocytes represent a population of complex and functionally diverse cells. Physiological diversity of astrocytes is apparent between different brain circuits and microcircuits, and individual astrocytes display diverse signaling in subcellular compartments. With respect to injury and disease, astrocytes undergo diverse phenotypic changes that may be protective or causative with regard to pathology in a context-dependent manner. These new insights herald the concept that astrocytes represent a diverse population of genetically tractable cells that mediate neural circuit-specific roles in health and disease.
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21
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Kamioka Y, Sumiyama K, Mizuno R, Matsuda M. Live imaging of transgenic mice expressing FRET biosensors. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2015; 2013:125-8. [PMID: 24109640 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2013.6609453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, fluorescence imaging has received particular attention, due to increasing availabilities of fluorescent proteins and dyes, which had driven the development of novel biosensors. Genetically-encoded biosensors based on the principle of Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) have been widely used in biology to visualize the spatiotemporal dynamics of signaling molecules. Despite the increasing multitude of these biosensors, their application has been mostly limited to cultured cells with transient biosensor expression, due to difficulties in stable expression of FRET biosensors. In this study, we report efficient generation of transgenic mouse lines expressing heritable and functional biosensors for ERK and PKA. These transgenic mice were generated by the cytoplasmic co-injection of Tol2 transposase mRNA and a circular plasmid harboring Tol2 recombination sites. Observation of these transgenic mice by two-photon excitation microscopy yielded real-time activity maps of ERK and PKA in various tissues, with greatly improved signal-to-background ratios. Our transgenic mice may be bred into diverse genetic backgrounds; moreover, the protocol we have developed paves the way for the generation of transgenic mice that express other FRET biosensors, with important applications in the characterization of physiological and pathological signal transduction events in addition to drug development and screening.
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22
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Khakh BS, McCarthy KD. Astrocyte calcium signaling: from observations to functions and the challenges therein. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2015; 7:a020404. [PMID: 25605709 PMCID: PMC4382738 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a020404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
We provide an overview of recent progress on the study of astrocyte intracellular Ca(2+) signaling. We consider the methods that have been used to monitor astrocyte Ca(2+) signals, the various types of Ca(2+) signals that have been discovered (waves, microdomains, and intrinsic fluctuations), the approaches used to broadly trigger and block Ca(2+) signals, and, where possible, the proposed and demonstrated physiological roles for astrocyte Ca(2+) signals within neuronal microcircuits. Although important progress has been made, we suggest that further detailed work is needed to explore the biophysics and molecular mechanisms of Ca(2+) signaling within entire astrocytes, including their fine distal extensions, such as processes that interact spatially with neurons and blood vessels. Improved methods are also needed to mimic and block molecularly defined types of Ca(2+) signals within genetically specified populations of astrocytes. Moreover, it will be essential to study astrocyte Ca(2+) activity in vivo to distinguish between pharmacological and physiological activity, and to study Ca(2+) activity in situ to rigorously explore mechanisms. Once methods to reliably measure, mimic, and block specific astrocyte Ca(2+) signals with high temporal and spatial precision are available, researchers will be able to carefully explore the correlative and causative roles that Ca(2+) signals may play in the functions of astrocytes, blood vessels, neurons, and microcircuits in the healthy and diseased brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baljit S Khakh
- Departments of Physiology and Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Ken D McCarthy
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7365
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23
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Broussard GJ, Liang R, Tian L. Monitoring activity in neural circuits with genetically encoded indicators. Front Mol Neurosci 2014; 7:97. [PMID: 25538558 PMCID: PMC4256991 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2014.00097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2014] [Accepted: 11/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent developments in genetically encoded indicators of neural activity (GINAs) have greatly advanced the field of systems neuroscience. As they are encoded by DNA, GINAs can be targeted to genetically defined cellular populations. Combined with fluorescence microscopy, most notably multi-photon imaging, GINAs allow chronic simultaneous optical recordings from large populations of neurons or glial cells in awake, behaving mammals, particularly rodents. This large-scale recording of neural activity at multiple temporal and spatial scales has greatly advanced our understanding of the dynamics of neural circuitry underlying behavior—a critical first step toward understanding the complexities of brain function, such as sensorimotor integration and learning. Here, we summarize the recent development and applications of the major classes of GINAs. In particular, we take an in-depth look at the design of available GINA families with a particular focus on genetically encoded calcium indicators (GCaMPs), sensors probing synaptic activity, and genetically encoded voltage indicators. Using the family of the GCaMP as an example, we review established sensor optimization pipelines. We also discuss practical considerations for end users of GINAs about experimental methods including approaches for gene delivery, imaging system requirements, and data analysis techniques. With the growing toolbox of GINAs and with new microscopy techniques pushing beyond their current limits, the age of light can finally achieve the goal of broad and dense sampling of neuronal activity across time and brain structures to obtain a dynamic picture of brain function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard J Broussard
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California Davis Davis, CA, USA ; Neuroscience Graduate Group, University of California Davis Davis, CA, USA
| | - Ruqiang Liang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California Davis Davis, CA, USA
| | - Lin Tian
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California Davis Davis, CA, USA ; Neuroscience Graduate Group, University of California Davis Davis, CA, USA
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24
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Chew LJ, DeBoy CA, Senatorov VV. Finding degrees of separation: experimental approaches for astroglial and oligodendroglial cell isolation and genetic targeting. J Neurosci Methods 2014; 236:125-47. [PMID: 25169049 PMCID: PMC4171043 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2014.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2014] [Revised: 08/15/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The study of CNS glial cell function requires experimental methods to detect, purify, and manipulate each cell population with fidelity and specificity. With the identification and cloning of cell- and stage-specific markers, glial cell analysis techniques have grown beyond physical methods of tissue dissociation and cell culture, and become highly specific with immunoselection of cell cultures in vitro and genetic targeting in vivo. The unique plasticity of glial cells offers the potential for cell replacement therapies in neurological disease that utilize neural cells derived from transplanted neural stem and progenitor cells. In this mini-review, we outline general physical and genetic approaches for macroglial cell generation. We summarize cell culture methods to obtain astrocytes and oligodendrocytes and their precursors, from developing and adult tissue, as well as approaches to obtain human neural progenitor cells through the establishment of stem cells. We discuss popular targeting rodent strains designed for cell-specific detection, selection and manipulation of neuroglial cell progenitors and their committed progeny. Based on shared markers between astrocytes and stem cells, we discuss genetically modified mouse strains with overlapping expression, and highlight SOX-expressing strains available for targeting of stem and progenitor cell populations. We also include recently established mouse strains for detection, and tag-assisted RNA and miRNA analysis. This discussion aims to provide a brief overview of the rapidly expanding collection of experimental approaches and genetic resources for the isolation and targeting of macroglial cells, their sources, progeny and gene products to facilitate our understanding of their properties and potential application in pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Jin Chew
- Center for Neuroscience Research, Children's Research Institute, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States.
| | - Cynthia A DeBoy
- Biology Department, Trinity Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Vladimir V Senatorov
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States
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25
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Dana H, Chen TW, Hu A, Shields BC, Guo C, Looger LL, Kim DS, Svoboda K. Thy1-GCaMP6 transgenic mice for neuronal population imaging in vivo. PLoS One 2014; 9:e108697. [PMID: 25250714 DOI: 10.1371/joumal.pone.0108697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2014] [Accepted: 08/11/2014] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetically-encoded calcium indicators (GECIs) facilitate imaging activity of genetically defined neuronal populations in vivo. The high intracellular GECI concentrations required for in vivo imaging are usually achieved by viral gene transfer using adeno-associated viruses. Transgenic expression of GECIs promises important advantages, including homogeneous, repeatable, and stable expression without the need for invasive virus injections. Here we present the generation and characterization of transgenic mice expressing the GECIs GCaMP6s or GCaMP6f under the Thy1 promoter. We quantified GCaMP6 expression across brain regions and neurons and compared to other transgenic mice and AAV-mediated expression. We tested three mouse lines for imaging in the visual cortex in vivo and compared their performance to mice injected with AAV expressing GCaMP6. Furthermore, we show that GCaMP6 Thy1 transgenic mice are useful for long-term, high-sensitivity imaging in behaving mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hod Dana
- Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Tsai-Wen Chen
- Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Amy Hu
- Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Brenda C Shields
- Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Caiying Guo
- Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Loren L Looger
- Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Douglas S Kim
- Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Karel Svoboda
- Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia, United States of America
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26
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Thy1-GCaMP6 transgenic mice for neuronal population imaging in vivo. PLoS One 2014; 9:e108697. [PMID: 25250714 PMCID: PMC4177405 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0108697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 358] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2014] [Accepted: 08/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetically-encoded calcium indicators (GECIs) facilitate imaging activity of genetically defined neuronal populations in vivo. The high intracellular GECI concentrations required for in vivo imaging are usually achieved by viral gene transfer using adeno-associated viruses. Transgenic expression of GECIs promises important advantages, including homogeneous, repeatable, and stable expression without the need for invasive virus injections. Here we present the generation and characterization of transgenic mice expressing the GECIs GCaMP6s or GCaMP6f under the Thy1 promoter. We quantified GCaMP6 expression across brain regions and neurons and compared to other transgenic mice and AAV-mediated expression. We tested three mouse lines for imaging in the visual cortex in vivo and compared their performance to mice injected with AAV expressing GCaMP6. Furthermore, we show that GCaMP6 Thy1 transgenic mice are useful for long-term, high-sensitivity imaging in behaving mice.
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27
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Stewart TA, Yapa KTDS, Monteith GR. Altered calcium signaling in cancer cells. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2014; 1848:2502-11. [PMID: 25150047 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2014.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2014] [Accepted: 08/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
It is the nature of the calcium signal, as determined by the coordinated activity of a suite of calcium channels, pumps, exchangers and binding proteins that ultimately guides a cell's fate. Deregulation of the calcium signal is often deleterious and has been linked to each of the 'cancer hallmarks'. Despite this, we do not yet have a full understanding of the remodeling of the calcium signal associated with cancer. Such an understanding could aid in guiding the development of therapies specifically targeting altered calcium signaling in cancer cells during tumorigenic progression. Findings from some of the studies that have assessed the remodeling of the calcium signal associated with tumorigenesis and/or processes important in invasion and metastasis are presented in this review. The potential of new methodologies is also discussed. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Membrane channels and transporters in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teneale A Stewart
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kunsala T D S Yapa
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Gregory R Monteith
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
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28
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Kanemaru K, Sekiya H, Xu M, Satoh K, Kitajima N, Yoshida K, Okubo Y, Sasaki T, Moritoh S, Hasuwa H, Mimura M, Horikawa K, Matsui K, Nagai T, Iino M, Tanaka KF. In vivo visualization of subtle, transient, and local activity of astrocytes using an ultrasensitive Ca(2+) indicator. Cell Rep 2014; 8:311-8. [PMID: 24981861 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2014.05.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2014] [Revised: 04/16/2014] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes generate local calcium (Ca(2+)) signals that are thought to regulate their functions. Visualization of these signals in the intact brain requires an imaging method with high spatiotemporal resolution. Here, we describe such a method using transgenic mice expressing the ultrasensitive ratiometric Ca(2+) indicator yellow Cameleon-Nano 50 (YC-Nano50) in astrocytes. In these mice, we detected a unique pattern of Ca(2+) signals. These occur spontaneously, predominantly in astrocytic fine processes, but not the cell body. Upon sensory stimulation, astrocytes initially responded with Ca(2+) signals at fine processes, which then propagated to the cell body. These observations suggest that astrocytic fine processes function as a high-sensitivity detector of neuronal activities. Thus, the method provides a useful tool for studying the activity of astrocytes in brain physiology and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazunori Kanemaru
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Sekiya
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Ming Xu
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Keio University, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kaname Satoh
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Nami Kitajima
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Keitaro Yoshida
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Keio University, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Yohei Okubo
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Takuya Sasaki
- Neurobiology Section and Center for Neural Circuits and Behavior, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, 92093-0357, USA
| | - Satoru Moritoh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8574, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Hasuwa
- Genome Information Research Center, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masaru Mimura
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Keio University, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kazuki Horikawa
- Support Center for Advanced Medical Sciences, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Ko Matsui
- Division of Interdisciplinary Medical Science, Center for Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Takeharu Nagai
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, Ibaraki 567-0047, Japan
| | - Masamitsu Iino
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.
| | - Kenji F Tanaka
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Keio University, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan.
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29
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Conway JRW, Carragher NO, Timpson P. Developments in preclinical cancer imaging: innovating the discovery of therapeutics. Nat Rev Cancer 2014; 14:314-28. [PMID: 24739578 DOI: 10.1038/nrc3724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Integrating biological imaging into early stages of the drug discovery process can provide invaluable readouts of drug activity within complex disease settings, such as cancer. Iterating this approach from initial lead compound identification in vitro to proof-of-principle in vivo analysis represents a key challenge in the drug discovery field. By embracing more complex and informative models in drug discovery, imaging can improve the fidelity and statistical robustness of preclinical cancer studies. In this Review, we highlight how combining advanced imaging with three-dimensional systems and intravital mouse models can provide more informative and disease-relevant platforms for cancer drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R W Conway
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre Sydney, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, New South Wales 2010, Sydney, Australia
| | - Neil O Carragher
- Edinburgh Cancer Research UK Centre, MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH4 2XR, UK
| | - Paul Timpson
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre Sydney, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, New South Wales 2010, Sydney, Australia
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30
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Lozić I, Bartlett CA, Shaw JA, Iyer KS, Dunlop SA, Kilburn MR, Fitzgerald M. Changes in subtypes of Ca microdomains following partial injury to the central nervous system. Metallomics 2014; 6:455-64. [PMID: 24425149 DOI: 10.1039/c3mt00336a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Rapid changes in Ca(2+) concentration and location in response to injury play key roles in a range of biological systems. However, quantitative analysis of changes in size and distribution of Ca(2+) microdomains in specific cell types in whole tissue samples has been limited by analytical resolution and reliance on indirect Ca(2+) indicator systems. Here, we combine the unique advantages of nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS) with immunohistochemistry to directly quantify changes in number, size and intensity of Ca microdomains specific to axonal or glial regions vulnerable to spreading damage following neurotrauma. Furthermore, using NanoSIMS allows separate quantification of Ca microdomains according to their co-localization with areas enriched in P. We rapidly excise and cryopreserve optic nerve segments from adult rat at time points ranging from 5 minutes to 3 months after injury, allowing assessment of Ca microdomains dynamics with minimal disruption due to tissue processing. We demonstrate significantly more non-P co-localized Ca microdomains in glial than axonal regions in normal optic nerve. The density of Ca microdomains not co-localized with areas enriched in P rapidly, selectively and significantly decreases after injury; densities of Ca microdomains co-localized with P enriched areas are unchanged. An efflux of Ca(2+) from microdomains not co-localized with P may contribute to the structural and functional deficits observed in nerve vulnerable to spreading damage following neurotrauma. NanoSIMS analyses of Ca microdomains allow quantitative and novel insights into Ca dynamics, applicable to a range of normal, as well as diseased or injured mammalian systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Lozić
- BioNano, School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley WA 6009, Australia
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31
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Li D, Agulhon C, Schmidt E, Oheim M, Ropert N. New tools for investigating astrocyte-to-neuron communication. Front Cell Neurosci 2013; 7:193. [PMID: 24194698 PMCID: PMC3810613 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2013.00193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2013] [Accepted: 10/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Gray matter protoplasmic astrocytes extend very thin processes and establish close contacts with synapses. It has been suggested that the release of neuroactive gliotransmitters at the tripartite synapse contributes to information processing. However, the concept of calcium (Ca2+)-dependent gliotransmitter release from astrocytes, and the release mechanisms are being debated. Studying astrocytes in their natural environment is challenging because: (i) astrocytes are electrically silent; (ii) astrocytes and neurons express an overlapping repertoire of transmembrane receptors; (iii) the size of astrocyte processes in contact with synapses are below the resolution of confocal and two-photon microscopes (iv) bulk-loading techniques using fluorescent Ca2+ indicators lack cellular specificity. In this review, we will discuss some limitations of conventional methodologies and highlight the interest of novel tools and approaches for studying gliotransmission. Genetically encoded Ca2+ indicators (GECIs), light-gated channels, and exogenous receptors are being developed to selectively read out and stimulate astrocyte activity. Our review discusses emerging perspectives on: (i) the complexity of astrocyte Ca2+ signaling revealed by GECIs; (ii) new pharmacogenetic and optogenetic approaches to activate specific Ca2+ signaling pathways in astrocytes; (iii) classical and new techniques to monitor vesicle fusion in cultured astrocytes; (iv) possible strategies to express specifically reporter genes in astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongdong Li
- Biophysics of Gliotransmitter Release Team, Laboratory of Neurophysiology and New Microscopies, INSERM U603, CNRS UMR 8154, University Paris Descartes Paris, France
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32
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Shigetomi E, Bushong EA, Haustein MD, Tong X, Jackson-Weaver O, Kracun S, Xu J, Sofroniew MV, Ellisman MH, Khakh BS. Imaging calcium microdomains within entire astrocyte territories and endfeet with GCaMPs expressed using adeno-associated viruses. J Gen Physiol 2013; 141:633-47. [PMID: 23589582 PMCID: PMC3639581 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201210949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 264] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2012] [Accepted: 03/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracellular Ca(2+) transients are considered a primary signal by which astrocytes interact with neurons and blood vessels. With existing commonly used methods, Ca(2+) has been studied only within astrocyte somata and thick branches, leaving the distal fine branchlets and endfeet that are most proximate to neuronal synapses and blood vessels largely unexplored. Here, using cytosolic and membrane-tethered forms of genetically encoded Ca(2+) indicators (GECIs; cyto-GCaMP3 and Lck-GCaMP3), we report well-characterized approaches that overcome these limitations. We used in vivo microinjections of adeno-associated viruses to express GECIs in astrocytes and studied Ca(2+) signals in acute hippocampal slices in vitro from adult mice (aged ∼P80) two weeks after infection. Our data reveal a sparkling panorama of unexpectedly numerous, frequent, equivalently scaled, and highly localized Ca(2+) microdomains within entire astrocyte territories in situ within acute hippocampal slices, consistent with the distribution of perisynaptic branchlets described using electron microscopy. Signals from endfeet were revealed with particular clarity. The tools and experimental approaches we describe in detail allow for the systematic study of Ca(2+) signals within entire astrocytes, including within fine perisynaptic branchlets and vessel-associated endfeet, permitting rigorous evaluation of how astrocytes contribute to brain function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiji Shigetomi
- Department of Physiology and 2 Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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Tong X, Shigetomi E, Looger LL, Khakh BS. Genetically Encoded Calcium Indicators and Astrocyte Calcium Microdomains. Neuroscientist 2012; 19:274-91. [DOI: 10.1177/1073858412468794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of intracellular Ca2+ signals within astrocytes has changed our view of how these ubiquitous cells contribute to brain function. Classically thought merely to serve supportive functions, astrocytes are increasingly thought to respond to, and regulate, neurons. The use of organic Ca2+ indicator dyes such as Fluo-4 and Fura-2 has proved instrumental in the study of astrocyte physiology. However, progress has recently been accelerated by the use of cytosolic and membrane targeted genetically encoded calcium indicators (GECIs). Herein, we review these recent findings, discuss why studying astrocyte Ca2+ signals is important to understand brain function, and summarize work that led to the discovery of TRPA1 channel-mediated near-membrane Ca2+ signals in astrocytes and their indirect neuromodulatory roles at inhibitory synapses in the CA1 stratum radiatum region of the hippocampus. We suggest that the use of membrane-targeted and cytosolic GECIs holds great promise to explore the diversity of Ca2+ signals within single astrocytes and also to study diversity of function for astrocytes in different parts of the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping Tong
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eiji Shigetomi
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi Chuo, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Loren L. Looger
- Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Baljit S. Khakh
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Schulz K, Sydekum E, Krueppel R, Engelbrecht CJ, Schlegel F, Schröter A, Rudin M, Helmchen F. Simultaneous BOLD fMRI and fiber-optic calcium recording in rat neocortex. Nat Methods 2012; 9:597-602. [PMID: 22561989 DOI: 10.1038/nmeth.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2011] [Accepted: 03/28/2012] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) based on blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) contrast is widely used for probing brain activity, but its relationship to underlying neural activity remains elusive. Here, we combined fMRI with fiber-optic recordings of fluorescent calcium indicator signals to investigate this relationship in rat somatosensory cortex. Electrical forepaw stimulation (1-10 Hz) evoked fast calcium signals of neuronal origin that showed frequency-dependent adaptation. Additionally, slower calcium signals occurred in astrocyte networks, as verified by astrocyte-specific staining and two-photon microscopy. Without apparent glia activation, we could predict BOLD responses well from simultaneously recorded fiber-optic signals, assuming an impulse response function and taking into account neuronal adaptation. In cases with glia activation, we uncovered additional prolonged BOLD signal components. Our findings highlight the complexity of fMRI BOLD signals, involving both neuronal and glial activity. Combined fMRI and fiber-optic recordings should help to clarify cellular mechanisms underlying BOLD signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Schulz
- Department of Neurophysiology, Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, Switzerland
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35
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Abstract
Fluorescent calcium indicator proteins, such as GCaMP3, allow imaging of activity in genetically defined neuronal populations. GCaMP3 can be expressed using various gene delivery methods, such as viral infection or electroporation. However, these methods are invasive and provide inhomogeneous and nonstationary expression. Here, we developed a genetic reporter mouse, Ai38, which expresses GCaMP3 in a Cre-dependent manner from the ROSA26 locus, driven by a strong CAG promoter. Crossing Ai38 with appropriate Cre mice produced robust GCaMP3 expression in defined cell populations in the retina, cortex, and cerebellum. In the primary visual cortex, visually evoked GCaMP3 signals showed normal orientation and direction selectivity. GCaMP3 signals were rapid, compared with virally expressed GCaMP3 and synthetic calcium indicators. In the retina, Ai38 allowed imaging spontaneous calcium waves in starburst amacrine cells during development, and light-evoked responses in ganglion cells in adult tissue. Our results show that the Ai38 reporter mouse provides a flexible method for targeted expression of GCaMP3.
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36
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Nimmerjahn A, Helmchen F. In vivo labeling of cortical astrocytes with sulforhodamine 101 (SR101). Cold Spring Harb Protoc 2012; 2012:326-334. [PMID: 22383644 DOI: 10.1101/pdb.prot068155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Fluorescent markers that stain particular cell types in the intact brain are essential tools for fluorescence microscopy because they enable studies of structure and function of cells identified in this way. Although cell type-specific fluorescence staining can be achieved through promoter-driven expression of fluorescent proteins, this genetic approach is generally labor- and cost-intensive. Alternative viral approaches for targeted fluorophore expression are relatively invasive. For astrocytes, there is a simple alternative. This protocol describes an easy and robust method for rapid (within minutes) and high-contrast staining of astrocytes in defined regions of the intact rodent cortex using the synthetic, water-soluble but non-fixable red fluorescent dye sulforhodamine 101 (SR101). Selective staining is achieved through local uptake and gap junction-mediated spread of SR101 following its topical application or injection into tissue. Applications, technical pitfalls, and limitations of the SR101-staining technique are discussed. Given its simplicity and reliability, SR101 staining is a valuable tool for the study of astrocyte function in the intact brain and for in vivo fluorescence microscopy in general.
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Russell JT. Imaging calcium signals in vivo: a powerful tool in physiology and pharmacology. Br J Pharmacol 2012; 163:1605-25. [PMID: 20718728 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.00988.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The design and engineering of organic fluorescent Ca(2+) indicators approximately 30 years ago opened the door for imaging cellular Ca(2+) signals with a high degree of temporal and spatial resolution. Over this time, Ca(2+) imaging has revolutionized our approaches for tissue-level spatiotemporal analysis of functional organization and has matured into a powerful tool for in situ imaging of cellular activity in the living animal. In vivo Ca(2+) imaging with temporal resolution at the millisecond range and spatial resolution at micrometer range has been achieved through novel designs of Ca(2+) sensors, development of modern microscopes and powerful imaging techniques such as two-photon microscopy. Imaging Ca(2+) signals in ensembles of cells within tissue in 3D allows for analysis of integrated cellular function, which, in the case of the brain, enables recording activity patterns in local circuits. The recent development of miniaturized compact, fibre-optic-based, mechanically flexible microendoscopes capable of two-photon microscopy opens the door for imaging activity in awake, behaving animals. This development is poised to open a new chapter in physiological experiments and for pharmacological approaches in the development of novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- James T Russell
- Section on Cell Biology and Signal Transduction, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurophysiology, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/NIH, 49 Convent Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892-4480, USA.
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Kamioka Y, Sumiyama K, Mizuno R, Sakai Y, Hirata E, Kiyokawa E, Matsuda M. Live imaging of protein kinase activities in transgenic mice expressing FRET biosensors. Cell Struct Funct 2012; 37:65-73. [PMID: 22277578 DOI: 10.1247/csf.11045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetically-encoded biosensors based on the principle of Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) have been widely used in biology to visualize the spatiotemporal dynamics of signaling molecules. Despite the increasing multitude of these biosensors, their application has been mostly limited to cultured cells with transient biosensor expression, due to particular difficulties in the development of transgenic mice that express FRET biosensors. In this study, we report the efficient generation of transgenic mouse lines expressing heritable and functional biosensors for ERK and PKA. These transgenic mice were created by the cytoplasmic co-injection of Tol2 transposase mRNA and a circular plasmid harbouring Tol2 recombination sites. High expression of the biosensors in a wide range of cell types allowed us to screen newborn mice simply by inspection. Observation of these transgenic mice by two-photon excitation microscopy yielded real-time activity maps of ERK and PKA in various tissues, with greatly improved signal-to-background ratios. Our transgenic mice may be bred into diverse genetic backgrounds; moreover, the protocol we have developed paves the way for the generation of transgenic mice that express other FRET biosensors, with important applications in the characterization of physiological and pathological signal transduction events in addition to drug development and screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuji Kamioka
- Department of Pathology and Biology of Diseases, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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39
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Pfrieger FW, Slezak M. Genetic approaches to study glial cells in the rodent brain. Glia 2011; 60:681-701. [PMID: 22162024 DOI: 10.1002/glia.22283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2011] [Accepted: 11/18/2011] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The development, function, and pathology of the brain depend on interactions of neurons and different types of glial cells, namely astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, and ependymal cells. Understanding neuron-glia interactions in vivo requires dedicated experimental approaches to manipulate each cell type independently. In this review, we first summarize techniques that allow for cell-specific gene modification including targeted mutagenesis and viral transduction. In the second part, we describe the genetic models that allow to target the main glial cell types in the central nervous system. The existing arsenal of approaches to study glial cells in vivo and its expansion in the future are key to understand neuron-glia interactions under normal and pathologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank W Pfrieger
- CNRS UPR 3212, University of Strasbourg, Institute of Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences (INCI), 67084 Strasbourg, France.
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40
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Wang Y, Pan Y, Price A, Martin LJ. Generation and characterization of transgenic mice expressing mitochondrial targeted red fluorescent protein selectively in neurons: modeling mitochondriopathy in excitotoxicity and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Mol Neurodegener 2011; 6:75. [PMID: 22047141 PMCID: PMC3227596 DOI: 10.1186/1750-1326-6-75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2011] [Accepted: 11/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mitochondria have roles or appear to have roles in the pathogenesis of several chronic age-related and acute neurological disorders, including Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and cerebral ischemia, and could be critical targets for development of rational mechanism-based, disease-modifying therapeutics for treating these disorders effectively. A deeper understanding of neural tissue mitochondria pathobiologies as definitive mediators of neural injury, disease, and cell death merits further study, and the development of additional tools to study neural mitochondria will help achieve this unmet need. RESULTS We created transgenic mice that express the coral (Discosoma sp.) red fluorescent protein DsRed2 specifically in mitochondria of neurons using a construct engineered with a Thy1 promoter, specific for neuron expression, to drive expression of a fusion protein of DsRed2 with a mitochondrial targeting sequence. The biochemical and histological characterization of these mice shows the expression of mitochondrial-targeted DsRed2 to be specific for mitochondria and concentrated in distinct CNS regions, including cerebral cortex, hippocampus, thalamus, brainstem, and spinal cord. Red fluorescent mitochondria were visualized in cerebral cortical and hippocampal pyramidal neurons, ventrobasal thalamic neurons, subthalamic neurons, and spinal motor neurons. For the purpose of proof of principle application, these mice were used in excitotoxicity paradigms and double transgenic mice were generated by crossing Thy1-mitoDsRed2 mice with transgenic mice expressing enhanced-GFP (eGFP) under the control of the Hlxb9 promoter that drives eGFP expression specifically in motor neurons and by crossing Thy1-mitoDsRed2 mice to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) mice expressing human mutant superoxide dismutase-1. CONCLUSIONS These novel transgenic mice will be a useful tool for better understanding the biology of mitochondria in mouse and cellular models of human neurological disorders as exemplified by the mitochondrial swelling and fission seen in excitotoxicity and mouse ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- Department of Pathology, Division of Neuropathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, MD 21205, USA
| | - Yan Pan
- Department of Pathology, Division of Neuropathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, MD 21205, USA
| | - Ann Price
- Department of Pathology, Division of Neuropathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, MD 21205, USA
| | - Lee J Martin
- Department of Pathology, Division of Neuropathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, MD 21205, USA
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41
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Petzold GC, Murthy VN. Role of astrocytes in neurovascular coupling. Neuron 2011; 71:782-97. [PMID: 21903073 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2011.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 285] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/15/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Neural activity is intimately tied to blood flow in the brain. This coupling is specific enough in space and time that modern imaging methods use local hemodynamics as a measure of brain activity. In this review, we discuss recent evidence indicating that neuronal activity is coupled to local blood flow changes through an intermediary, the astrocyte. We highlight unresolved issues regarding the role of astrocytes and propose ways to address them using novel techniques. Our focus is on cellular level analysis in vivo, but we also relate mechanistic insights gained from ex vivo experiments to native tissue. We also review some strategies to harness advances in optical and genetic methods to study neurovascular coupling in the intact brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabor C Petzold
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Ludwig-Erhard-Allee 2, 53175 Bonn, Germany.
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42
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Bulk loading of calcium indicator dyes to study astrocyte physiology: key limitations and improvements using morphological maps. J Neurosci 2011; 31:9353-8. [PMID: 21697385 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0127-11.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium signaling has been studied in astrocyte cell bodies using bulk loading of calcium indicator dyes, and astrocytes are known to display intracellular calcium transients. An assumption in recent data on the neuronal impact of somatic astrocyte calcium transients has been that bulk loading reflects signaling in relevant astrocyte compartments such as processes. We assessed bulk loading using Sholl analysis (Sholl, 1953) of astrocytes loaded with common calcium indicator dyes and compared these data with Sholl analysis of astrocyte morphology. In the CA1 region of the hippocampus from rats, we found that bulk loading of calcium indicator dyes only reports on calcium signals within the soma and in the most proximal processes, leaving ∼90% of the area of an astrocyte and its extensive processes unsampled. By using morphological reconstructions as "maps" after the imaging session, we present simple procedures that remedy these shortfalls and permit reliable detection of calcium transients in distal astrocyte processes. The data thus reveal limitations in the interpretation of astrocyte calcium imaging data gathered with bulk loading and provide refinements to minimize these shortcomings.
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43
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Choi M, Yoon J, Ku T, Choi K, Choi C. Label-free optical activation of astrocyte in vivo. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2011; 16:075003. [PMID: 21806260 DOI: 10.1117/1.3600774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
As the most abundant cell type in the central nervous system, astrocyte has been one of main research topics in neuroscience. Although various tools have been developed, at present, there is no tool that allows noninvasive activation of astrocyte in vivo without genetic or pharmacological perturbation. Here we report a noninvasive label-free optical method for physiological astrocyte activation in vivo using a femtosecond pulsed laser. We showed the laser stimulation robustly induced astrocytic calcium activation in vivo and further verified physiological relevance of the calcium increase by demonstrating astrocyte mediated vasodilation in the brain. This novel optical method will facilitate noninvasive physiological study on astrocyte function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myunghwan Choi
- KAIST, Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, Cell Signaling and Bioimaging Laboratory, 335 Gwahak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 305-701, Republic of Korea
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Newman RH, Fosbrink MD, Zhang J. Genetically encodable fluorescent biosensors for tracking signaling dynamics in living cells. Chem Rev 2011; 111:3614-66. [PMID: 21456512 PMCID: PMC3092831 DOI: 10.1021/cr100002u] [Citation(s) in RCA: 260] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert H. Newman
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Matthew D. Fosbrink
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205
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45
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Abstract
Microscopes using non-linear excitation of chromophores with pulsed near-IR light can generate highly localized foci of molecules in the electronic singlet state that are concentrated in volumes of less than one femtoliter. The three-dimensional confinement of excitation arises from the simultaneous absorption of two IR photons of approximately half the energy required for linear excitation. Two-photon microscopy is especially useful for two types of interrogation of neural processes. First, uncaging of signaling molecules such as glutamate, as stimulation is so refined it can be used to mimic normal unitary synaptic levels. In addition, uncaging allows complete control of the timing and position of stimulation, so the two-photon light beam provides the chemical neuroscientist with an "optical conductor's baton" which can command synaptic activity at will. A second powerful feature of two-photon microscopy is that when used for fluorescence imaging it enables the visualization of cellular structure and function in living animals at depths far beyond that possible with normal confocal microscopes. In this review I provide a survey of the many important applications of two-photon microscopy in these two fields of neuroscience, and suggest some areas for future technical development.
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46
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Fluorescent Genetically Encoded Calcium Indicators and Their In Vivo Application. FLUORESCENT PROTEINS II 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/4243_2011_29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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47
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Monitoring astrocyte calcium microdomains with improved membrane targeted GCaMP reporters. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 6:183-91. [PMID: 21205365 DOI: 10.1017/s1740925x10000219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are involved in synaptic and cerebrovascular regulation in the brain. These functions are regulated by intracellular calcium signalling that is thought to reflect a form of astrocyte excitability. In a recent study, we reported modification of the genetically encoded calcium indicator (GECI) GCaMP2 with a membrane-tethering domain, Lck, to generate Lck-GCaMP2. This GECI allowed us to detect novel microdomain calcium signals. The microdomains were random and 'spotty' in nature. In order to detect such signals more reliably, in the present study we further modified Lck-GCaMP2 to carry three mutations in the GCaMP2 moiety (M153K, T203V within EGFP and N60D in the CaM domain) to generate Lck-GCaMP3. We directly compared Lck-GCaMP2 and Lck-GCaMP3 by assessing their ability to monitor several types of astrocyte calcium signals with a focus on spotty microdomains. Our data show that Lck-GCaMP3 is between two- and four-times better than Lck-GCaMP2 in terms of its basal fluorescence intensity, signal-to-noise and its ability to detect microdomains. The use of Lck-GCaMP3 thus represents a significantly improved way to monitor astrocyte calcium signals, including microdomains, and will facilitate detailed exploration of their molecular mechanisms and physiological roles.
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48
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A genetically targeted optical sensor to monitor calcium signals in astrocyte processes. Nat Neurosci 2010; 13:759-66. [PMID: 20495558 DOI: 10.1038/nn.2557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2009] [Accepted: 04/15/2010] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Calcium signaling is studied as a potential form of astrocyte excitability that may control astrocyte involvement in synaptic and cerebrovascular regulation. Fundamental questions remain unanswered about astrocyte calcium signaling, as current methods can not resolve calcium in small volume compartments, such as near the cell membrane and in distal cell processes. We modified the genetically encoded calcium sensor GCaMP2 with a membrane-tethering domain, Lck, increasing the level of Lck-GCaMP2 near the plasma membrane tenfold as compared with conventional GCaMP2. Using Lck-GCaMP2 in rat hippocampal astrocyte-neuron cocultures, we measured near-membrane calcium signals that were evoked pharmacologically or by single action potential-mediated neurotransmitter release. Moreover, we identified highly localized and frequent spontaneous calcium signals in astrocyte somata and processes that conventional GCaMP2 failed to detect. Lck-GCaMP2 acts as a genetically targeted calcium sensor for monitoring calcium signals in previously inaccessible parts of astrocytes, including fine processes.
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49
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Contreras L, Drago I, Zampese E, Pozzan T. Mitochondria: the calcium connection. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOENERGETICS 2010; 1797:607-18. [PMID: 20470749 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbabio.2010.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 252] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2010] [Revised: 05/04/2010] [Accepted: 05/04/2010] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Calcium handling by mitochondria is a key feature in cell life. It is involved in energy production for cell activity, in buffering and shaping cytosolic calcium rises and also in determining cell fate by triggering or preventing apoptosis. Both mitochondria and the mechanisms involved in the control of calcium homeostasis have been extensively studied, but they still provide researchers with long-standing or even new challenges. Technical improvements in the tools employed for the investigation of calcium dynamics have been-and are still-opening new perspectives in this field, and more prominently for mitochondria. In this review we present a state-of-the-art toolkit for calcium measurements, with major emphasis on the advantages of genetically encoded indicators. These indicators can be efficiently and selectively targeted to specific cellular sub-compartments, allowing previously unavailable high-definition calcium dynamic studies. We also summarize the main features of cellular and, in more detail, mitochondrial calcium handling, especially focusing on the latest breakthroughs in the field, such as the recent direct characterization of the calcium microdomains that occur on the mitochondrial surface upon cellular stimulation. Additionally, we provide a major example of the key role played by calcium in patho-physiology by briefly describing the extensively reported-albeit highly controversial-alterations of calcium homeostasis in Alzheimer's disease, casting lights on the possible alterations in mitochondrial calcium handling in this pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Contreras
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Italy.
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