Preconditioning injury-induced neurite outgrowth of adult rat sensory neurons on fibronectin is mediated by mobilisation of axonal α5 integrin

Schwann cells acquire a repair phenotype after assembling into spheroids and show enhanced in vivo therapeutic potential for promoting peripheral nerve repair

The prognosis for postinjury peripheral nerve regeneration remains suboptimal. Although transplantation of exogenous Schwann cells (SCs) has been considered a promising treatment to promote nerve repair, this strategy has been hampered in practice by the limited availability of SC sources and an insufficient postengraftment cell retention rate. In this study, to address these challenges, SCs were aggregated into spheroids before being delivered to an injured rat sciatic nerve. We found that the three-dimensional aggregation of SCs induced their acquisition of a repair phenotype, as indicated by enhanced levels of c-Jun expression/activation and decreased expression of myelin sheath protein. Furthermore, our in vitro results demonstrated the superior potential of the SC spheroid-derived secretome in promoting neurite outgrowth of dorsal root ganglion neurons, enhancing the proliferation and migration of endogenous SCs, and recruiting macrophages. Moreover, transplantation of SC spheroids into rats after sciatic nerve transection effectively increased the postinjury nerve structure restoration and motor functional recovery rates, demonstrating the therapeutic potential of SC spheroids. In summary, transplantation of preassembled SC spheroids may hold great potential for enhancing the cell delivery efficiency and the resultant therapeutic outcome, thereby improving SC-based transplantation approaches for promoting peripheral nerve regeneration.

25-Hydroxycholesterol as a Signaling Molecule of the Nervous System

Cholesterol is an essential component of plasma membrane and precursor of biological active compounds, including hydroxycholesterols (HCs). HCs regulate cellular homeostasis of cholesterol; they can pass across the membrane and vascular barriers and act distantly as para- and endocrine agents. A small amount of 25-hydroxycholesterol (25-HC) is produced in the endoplasmic reticulum of most cells, where it serves as a potent regulator of the synthesis, intracellular transport, and storage of cholesterol. Production of 25-HC is strongly increased in the macrophages, dendrite cells, and microglia at the inflammatory response. The synthesis of 25-HC can be also upregulated in some neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spastic paraplegia type 5, and X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy. However, it is unclear whether 25-HC aggravates these pathologies or has the protective properties. The molecular targets for 25-HC are transcriptional factors (LX receptors, SREBP2, ROR), G protein-coupled receptor (GPR183), ion channels (NMDA receptors, SLO1), adhesive molecules (α5β1 and ανβ3 integrins), and oxysterol-binding proteins. The diversity of 25-HC-binding proteins points to the ability of HC to affect many physiological and pathological processes. In this review, we focused on the regulation of 25-HC production and its universal role in the control of cellular cholesterol homeostasis, as well as the effects of 25-HC as a signaling molecule mediating the influence of inflammation on the processes in the neuromuscular system and brain. Based on the evidence collected, it can be suggested that 25-HC prevents accumulation of cellular cholesterol and serves as a potent modulator of neuroinflammation, synaptic transmission, and myelinization. An increased production of 25-HC in response to a various type of damage can have a protective role and reduce neuronal loss. At the same time, an excess of 25-HC may exert the neurotoxic effects.

The Integrin Signaling Network Promotes Axon Regeneration via the Src-Ephexin-RhoA GTPase Signaling Axis

Axon regeneration is an evolutionarily conserved process essential for restoring the function of damaged neurons. In Caenorhabditis elegans hermaphrodites, initiation of axon regeneration is regulated by the RhoA GTPase-ROCK (Rho-associated coiled-coil kinase)-regulatory nonmuscle myosin light-chain phosphorylation signaling pathway. However, the upstream mechanism that activates the RhoA pathway remains unknown. Here, we show that axon injury activates TLN-1/talin via the cAMP-Epac (exchange protein directly activated by cAMP)-Rap GTPase cascade and that TLN-1 induces multiple downstream events, one of which is integrin inside-out activation, leading to the activation of the RhoA-ROCK signaling pathway. We found that the nonreceptor tyrosine kinase Src, a key mediator of integrin signaling, activates the Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor EPHX-1/ephexin by phosphorylating the Tyr-568 residue in the autoinhibitory domain. Our results suggest that the C. elegans integrin signaling network regulates axon regeneration via the Src-RhoGEF-RhoA axis.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The ability of axons to regenerate after injury is governed by cell-intrinsic regeneration pathways. We have previously demonstrated that the Caenorhabditis elegans RhoA GTPase-ROCK (Rho-associated coiled-coil kinase) pathway promotes axon regeneration by inducing MLC-4 phosphorylation. In this study, we found that axon injury activates TLN-1/talin through the cAMP-Epac (exchange protein directly activated by cAMP)-Rap GTPase cascade, leading to integrin inside-out activation, which promotes axonal regeneration by activating the RhoA signaling pathway. In this pathway, SRC-1/Src acts downstream of integrin activation and subsequently activates EPHX-1/ephexin RhoGEF by phosphorylating the Tyr-568 residue in the autoinhibitory domain. Our results suggest that the C. elegans integrin signaling network regulates axon regeneration via the Src-RhoGEF-RhoA axis.

Biomimetic Approaches for Separated Regeneration of Sensory and Motor Fibers in Amputee People: Necessary Conditions for Functional Integration of Sensory-Motor Prostheses With the Peripheral Nerves

The regenerative capacity of the peripheral nervous system after an injury is limited, and a complete function is not recovered, mainly due to the loss of nerve tissue after the injury that causes a separation between the nerve ends and to the disorganized and intermingled growth of sensory and motor nerve fibers that cause erroneous reinnervations. Even though the development of biomaterials is a very promising field, today no significant results have been achieved. In this work, we study not only the characteristics that should have the support that will allow the growth of nerve fibers, but also the molecular profile necessary for a specific guidance. To do this, we carried out an exhaustive study of the molecular profile present during the regeneration of the sensory and motor fibers separately, as well as of the effect obtained by the administration and inhibition of different factors involved in the regeneration. In addition, we offer a complete design of the ideal characteristics of a biomaterial, which allows the growth of the sensory and motor neurons in a differentiated way, indicating (1) size and characteristics of the material; (2) necessity to act at the microlevel, on small groups of neurons; (3) combination of molecules and specific substrates; and (4) temporal profile of those molecules expression throughout the regeneration process. The importance of the design we offer is that it respects the complexity and characteristics of the regeneration process; it indicates the appropriate temporal conditions of molecular expression, in order to obtain a synergistic effect; it takes into account the importance of considering the process at the group of neuron level; and it gives an answer to the main limitations in the current studies.

Age-dependent increase in Thy-1 protein in the rat supraoptic nucleus

Mature mammalian CNS neurons often do not recover successfully following injury. To this point, unilateral lesion of the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial tract results in collateral sprouting from uninjured axons of the supraoptic nucleus (SON) in 35-day-old but not in 125-day-old rats. Thus, it appears that there are age-related changes within the SON that preclude the older rat from recovering following axotomy. We hypothesize that the intrinsic capacity for axon reorganization may depend, in part, on age-related alterations in cell adhesion molecules that allow normal astrocyte-neuron interactions in the SON. In support of our hypothesis, numerous reports have shown that Thy-1 is increased in neurons at the cessation of axon outgrowth. Therefore, we compared protein levels of Thy-1 and the Thy-1 interacting integrin subunits, alpha-v (α_v), beta-3 (ß₃), and beta-5 (ß₅), in 35- and 125-day-old SON using western blot analysis. Our results demonstrated that there was significantly more Thy-1 protein in the 125-day-old SON compared to 35-day-old SON, but no change in the protein levels of the integrin subunits. Furthermore, we localized Thy-1-, α_v integrin-, ß₃ integrin-, and ß₅ integrin-immunoreactivity to both neurons and astrocytes in the SON. Altogether, our results suggest that the observed increase in Thy-1 protein levels in the SON with age may contribute to an environment that prevents collateral axonal sprouting in the SON of the 125-day-old rat.

Urokinase receptor regulates nerve regeneration through its interaction with α5β1-integrin

PURPOSE

Urokinase receptor (uPAR) promotes extracellular matrix proteolysis, regulates adhesion and cell migration, transduces intracellular signals through interactions with the lateral partners. The expression of uPAR and urokinase (uPA) is significantly upregulated in peripheral nerves after injury, however, little is known about uPAR function in nerve regeneration or the molecular mechanisms involved. The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of uPAR in nerve regeneration after traumatic injury of n. Peroneus communis in uPA-/-, uPAR-/- or control mice (WT) and in neuritogenesis in an in vitro Neuro 2A cell model.

RESULTS

Electrophysiological analysis indicates that nerve recovery is significantly impaired in uPAR-/- mice, but not in uPA-/- mice. These data correlate with the reduced amount of NF200-positive axons in regenerating nerves from uPAR-/- mice compared to uPA-/- or control mice. There is an increase in uPAR expression and remarkable colocalization of uPAR with α5 and β1 integrin in uPA-/- mice in recovering nerves, pointing to a potential link between uPAR and its lateral partner α5β1-integrin. Using an in vitro model of neuritogenesis and α325 blocking peptide, which abrogates uPAR-α5β1 interaction in Neuro 2A cells but has no effect on their function, we have further confirmed the significance of uPAR-α5β1 interaction.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, we report evidence pointing to an important role of uPAR, rather than uPA, in peripheral nerve recovery and neuritogenesis.

Self-Assembling Peptide Hydrogel Matrices Improve the Neurotrophic Potential of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells

Despite advances in microsurgical techniques, treatment options to restore prior function following peripheral nerve injury remain unavailable, and autologous nerve grafting remains the therapy of choice. Recent experimental work has focused on the development of artificial constructs incorporating smart biomaterials and stem cells, aspiring to match/improve the outcomes of nerve autografting. Chemically stimulated human adipose-derived stem cells (dhASC) can improve nerve regeneration outcomes; however, these properties are lost when chemical stimulation is withdrawn, and survival rate upon transplantation is low. It is hypothesized that interactions with synthetic hydrogel matrices could maintain and improve neurotrophic characteristics of dhASC. dhASC are cultured on PeptiGel-Alpha 1 and PeptiGel-Alpha 2 self-assembling peptide hydrogels, showing comparable viability to collagen I control gels. Culturing dhASC on Alpha 1 and Alpha 2 substrates allow the maintenance of neurotrophic features, such as the expression of growth factors and neuroglial markers. Both Alpha 1 and Alpha 2 substrates are suitable for the culture of peripheral sensory neurons, permitting sprouting of neuronal extensions without the need of biological extracellular matrices, and preserving neuronal function. PeptiGel substrates loaded with hdASC are proposed as promising candidates for the development of tissue engineering therapies for the repair of peripheral nerve injuries.

Different epidermal growth factor receptor signaling pathways in neurons and astrocytes activated by extracellular matrix after spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a serious central nervous system (CNS) trauma that results in permanent and severe disability. The extracellular matrix (ECM) can affect the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK_1/2) by interacting with the ERK integrin subunits. In this study, we built a model of SCI with glial fibrillary acidic protein-green fluorescent protein (GFAP-GFP) and thymus cell antigen 1-yellow fluorescent protein-H (Thy1-YFPH) in mice that express specific transgenes in their astrocytes or neurons. Then, we collected spinal cord neurons or astrocytes by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). In this way, we investigated the SCI-induced phosphorylation of ERK_1/2 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in neurons and astrocytes, and we discovered that the SCI-induced EGFR signaling pathways differed between neurons and astrocytes. In the present study, we found that the Src-dependent phosphorylation of EGFR induced by SCI occurred only in neurons, not in astrocytes. This phenomenon may be due to the involvement of Thy-1, which promoted the binding between Src and EGFR in neurons after SCI. In addition, the expression of the integrin subunits after SCI differed between neurons and astrocytes. Our present study shows that the EGFR signaling pathway triggered by SCI in neurons differed from the EGFR signaling pathway triggered in astrocytes, a finding that may help to pave the way for clinical trials of therapies that inhibit EGFR signaling pathways after SCI.

Distinct relaxation timescales of neurites revealed by rate-dependent indentation, relaxation and micro-rheology tests

Although the dynamic response of neurites is believed to play crucial roles in processes like axon outgrowth and formation of the neural network, the dynamic mechanical properties of such protrusions remain poorly understood. In this study, by using AFM (atomic force microscopy) indentation, we systematically examined the dynamic behavior of well-developed neurites on primary neurons under different loading modes (step loading, oscillating loading and ramp loading). Interestingly, the response was found to be strongly rate-dependent, with an apparent initial and long-term elastic modulus around 800 and 80 Pa, respectively. To better analyze the measurement data and extract information of key interest, the finite element simulation method (FEM) was also conducted where the neurite was treated as a viscoelastic solid consisting of multiple characteristic relaxation times. It was found that a minimum of three relaxation timescales, i.e. ∼0.01, 0.1 and 1 seconds, are needed to explain the observed relaxation curve as well as fit simulation results to the indentation and rheology data under different loading rates and driving frequencies. We further demonstrated that these three characteristic relaxation times likely originate from the thermal fluctuations of the microtubule, membrane relaxation and cytosol viscosity, respectively. By identifying key parameters describing the time-dependent behavior of neurites, as well as revealing possible physical mechanisms behind, this study could greatly help us understand how neural cells perform their biological duties over a wide spectrum of timescales.

Therapeutic strategies for peripheral nerve injury: decellularized nerve conduits and Schwann cell transplantation

In recent years, the use of Schwann cell transplantation to repair peripheral nerve injury has attracted much attention. Animal-based studies show that the transplantation of Schwann cells in combination with nerve scaffolds promotes the repair of injured peripheral nerves. Autologous Schwann cell transplantation in humans has been reported recently. This article reviews current methods for removing the extracellular matrix and analyzes its composition and function. The development and secretory products of Schwann cells are also reviewed. The methods for the repair of peripheral nerve injuries that use myelin and Schwann cell transplantation are assessed. This survey of the literature data shows that using a decellularized nerve conduit combined with Schwann cells represents an effective strategy for the treatment of peripheral nerve injury. This analysis provides a comprehensive basis on which to make clinical decisions for the repair of peripheral nerve injury.

An In Vitro Model for Conditioning Lesion Effect

Axons of a peripheral nerve grow faster after an axotomy if it attains a prior injury a few days earlier. This is called conditioning lesion effect (CLE) and very much valued since it may provide new insights into neuron biology and axonal regeneration. There are established in vivo experimental paradigms to study CLE, however, there is a need to have an in vitro conditioning technique where CLE occurs in a maximally controlled environment. Mouse primary sensory neurons were isolated from lumbar 4-5 dorsal root ganglia and incubated at 37 °C on a silicon-coated watch glass that prevents cell attachment. After this conditioning period they were transferred to laminin coated culture dishes. Similar cultures were set up with freshly isolated neurons from control animals and from the animals that received a sciatic nerve cut 3 days earlier. All preparations were placed on a live cell imaging microscopy providing physiological conditions and photographed for 48 h. Axonal regeneration and neuronal survival was assessed. During the conditioning incubation period neurons remained in suspended aggregates and did not grow axons. The regeneration rate of the in vitro conditioned neurons was much higher than the in vivo conditioned and control preparations during the first day of normal incubation. However, higher regeneration rates were compromised by progressive substantial neuronal death in both types of conditioned cultures but not in the control preparations. By using neutralizing antibodies, we demonstrated that activity of endogenous leukemia inhibitory factor is essential for induction of CLE in this model.

The Virtuous Cycle of Axon Growth: Axonal Transport of Growth-Promoting Machinery as an Intrinsic Determinant of Axon Regeneration

Injury to the brain and spinal cord has devastating consequences because adult central nervous system (CNS) axons fail to regenerate. Injury to the peripheral nervous system (PNS) has a better prognosis, because adult PNS neurons support robust axon regeneration over long distances. CNS axons have some regenerative capacity during development, but this is lost with maturity. Two reasons for the failure of CNS regeneration are extrinsic inhibitory molecules, and a weak intrinsic capacity for growth. Extrinsic inhibitory molecules have been well characterized, but less is known about the neuron-intrinsic mechanisms which prevent axon re-growth. Key signaling pathways and genetic/epigenetic factors have been identified which can enhance regenerative capacity, but the precise cellular mechanisms mediating their actions have not been characterized. Recent studies suggest that an important prerequisite for regeneration is an efficient supply of growth-promoting machinery to the axon; however, this appears to be lacking from non-regenerative axons in the adult CNS. In the first part of this review, we summarize the evidence linking axon transport to axon regeneration. We discuss the developmental decline in axon regeneration capacity in the CNS, and comment on how this is paralleled by a similar decline in the selective axonal transport of regeneration-associated receptors such as integrins and growth factor receptors. In the second part, we discuss the mechanisms regulating selective polarized transport within neurons, how these relate to the intrinsic control of axon regeneration, and whether they can be targeted to enhance regenerative capacity. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 00: 000-000, 2018.

Integrins promote axonal regeneration after injury of the nervous system

Integrins are cell surface receptors that form the link between extracellular matrix molecules of the cell environment and internal cell signalling and the cytoskeleton. They are involved in several processes, e.g. adhesion and migration during development and repair. This review focuses on the role of integrins in axonal regeneration. Integrins participate in spontaneous axonal regeneration in the peripheral nervous system through binding to various ligands that either inhibit or enhance their activation and signalling. Integrin biology is more complex in the central nervous system. Integrins receptors are transported into growing axons during development, but selective polarised transport of integrins limits the regenerative response in adult neurons. Manipulation of integrins and related molecules to control their activation state and localisation within axons is a promising route towards stimulating effective regeneration in the central nervous system.

Integrin Activation: Implications for Axon Regeneration

Integrin activation is essential for creating functional transmembrane receptors capable of inducing downstream cellular effects such as cell migration, cell spreading, neurite outgrowth and axon regeneration. Integrins are bidirectional signalling molecules that mediate their effects by 'inside-out' and 'outside-in' signalling. This review will provide a detailed overview of integrin activation focusing on intracellular activation in neurons and discussing direct implications in the regulation of neurite outgrowth and axon regeneration.

α6 and β1 Integrin Heterodimer Mediates Schwann Cell Interactions with Axons and Facilitates Axonal Regeneration after Peripheral Nerve Injury

Several isoforms of integrin subunits are expressed in Schwann cells and mediate Schwann cell interactions with axons. Here, we identify α6 and β1 integrins as heterodimeric proteins expressed in Schwann cells and define their functions in axonal regeneration. α6 and β1 integrins are induced in Schwann cells in the sciatic nerve after a crush injury, and the blocking of integrin activity by siRNA expression and by treatment with anti-integrin antibodies attenuates Schwann cell contact with cultured neurons and decreases neurite outgrowth. After nerve transection, the levels of α6 and β1 integrins in the distal nerve stump are lower than those in the corresponding nerve area after a crush injury. Schwann cells prepared from the distal nerves 7 days after transection are less supportive of neurite outgrowth in co-cultured neurons than those prepared from the nerves 7 days after a crush injury. When the transected nerves are reconnected after a delay of 1 to 2 weeks, the induced levels of α6 and β1 integrins in the reconnected distal nerves are significantly reduced compared to those in the nerves after a crush injury. These changes correlate with retarded axonal regeneration in animals that have experienced nerve transections and delayed coaptation, which implies an attenuated Schwann cell capacity to support axonal regeneration due to delayed Schwann cell contact with axons. The present data suggest that α6 and β1 integrins induced in Schwann cells after nerve injury may play a role in mediating Schwann cell interactions with axons and promote axonal regeneration.

Effects of repeated nerve injuries at different time intervals on functional recovery and nerve innervation

Effects of repeated nerve injuries on functional recovery and nerve innervation were examined in rodents. Crush injuries of the sciatic nerve were inflicted on adult rats and repeated twice or thrice at different time intervals of 1, 2, 3, and 4 weeks. Motor function was assessed by the static sciatic index at 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, 49, and 56 days after the final crush. The rates of nerve innervation of the tibialis anterior muscle, a main muscle innervated by the common peroneal nerve, were evaluated by the quantification of βIII-tubulin-positive nerve terminals and α-bungarotoxin-positive acetylcholine receptors 21 and 56 days after the final crush of triple nerve injuries at 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-week intervals. Compared with single nerve crush injury, delayed recovery of motor function was observed in repeated crush injuries. In addition, recoveries in the triple crush groups were slower than those in the double crush groups. The rates of reinnervation were lower in the triple crush groups than in the single crush groups, both at 21 days (single: 59.7%; triple: 54.1%-56.1%) and 56 days (single: 88.8%; triple: 72.5%-83.0%) after the final crush, except in the groups with 1-week (triple: 73.8%) and 2-week (triple: 70.5%) intervals at 21 days after the final crush. We concluded that the recovery of motor function was delayed according to the number of repetitions of crush injuries, and that the rates of nerve innervation were still low in the triple crush groups 8 weeks after the final crush.

Selective rab11 transport and the intrinsic regenerative ability of CNS axons

Neurons lose intrinsic axon regenerative ability with maturation, but the mechanism remains unclear. Using an in-vitro laser axotomy model, we show a progressive decline in the ability of cut CNS axons to form a new growth cone and then elongate. Failure of regeneration was associated with increased retraction after axotomy. Transportation into axons becomes selective with maturation; we hypothesized that selective exclusion of molecules needed for growth may contribute to regeneration decline. With neuronal maturity rab11 vesicles (which carry many molecules involved in axon growth) became selectively targeted to the somatodendritic compartment and excluded from axons by predominant retrograde transport However, on overexpression rab11 was mistrafficked into proximal axons, and these axons showed less retraction and enhanced regeneration after axotomy. These results suggest that the decline of intrinsic axon regenerative ability is associated with selective exclusion of key molecules, and that manipulation of transport can enhance regeneration.

The nerves in the brain and spinal cord can be damaged by trauma, stroke and other conditions. Damage to these nerve fibres can destroy the connections they form with each other, which may lead to paralysis, loss of sensation and loss of body control. If we could stimulate the regeneration and reconnection of the damaged nerve fibres then neurological function could be restored. However, although embryonic nerve fibres can regenerate when they are transplanted into the adult central nervous system, this regenerative ability appears to be lost as the nerve fibres mature.

To investigate when and why nerve fibres lose the ability to regenerate, Koseki et al. first developed a tissue culture assay in which individual nerve fibres were cut with a laser and imaged for several hours to track their regeneration (or failure to regenerate). The results demonstrate that nerve fibres from the central nervous system progressively lose the ability to grow and regenerate as they mature.

To investigate why mature nerve fibres cannot regenerate, Koseki et al. measured whether nerve fibres can transport some of the molecules needed for growth and regeneration to sites of damage. This showed that the compartments in which some key growth molecules are transported become excluded from mature nerve fibres. These compartments are marked by a protein called rab11, and Koseki et al. found that forcing rab11 back into mature nerve fibres restored their ability to regenerate.

There is still a lot of work needed before these findings can lead to a new regeneration treatment for patients, but it is a crucial step forwards. Furthermore, the assay developed by Koseki et al. could be used to develop and test such treatments.

Stabilization, Rolling, and Addition of Other Extracellular Matrix Proteins to Collagen Hydrogels Improve Regeneration in Chitosan Guides for Long Peripheral Nerve Gaps in Rats

BACKGROUND: Autograft is still the gold standard technique for the repair of long peripheral nerve injuries. The addition of biologically active scaffolds into the lumen of conduits to mimic the endoneurium of peripheral nerves may increase the final outcome of artificial nerve devices. Furthermore, the control of the orientation of the collagen fibers may provide some longitudinal guidance architecture providing a higher level of mesoscale tissue structure.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the regenerative capabilities of chitosan conduits enriched with extracellular matrix-based scaffolds to bridge a critical gap of 15 mm in the rat sciatic nerve.

METHODS: The right sciatic nerve of female Wistar Hannover rats was repaired with chitosan tubes functionalized with extracellular matrix-based scaffolds fully hydrated or stabilized and rolled to bridge a 15 mm nerve gap. Recovery was evaluated by means of electrophysiology and algesimetry tests and histological analysis 4 months after injury.

RESULTS: Stabilized constructs enhanced the success of regeneration compared with fully hydrated scaffolds. Moreover, fibronectin-enriched scaffolds increased muscle reinnervation and number of myelinated fibers compared with laminin-enriched constructs.

CONCLUSION: A mixed combination of collagen and fibronectin may be a promising internal filler for neural conduits for the repair of peripheral nerve injuries, and their stabilization may increase the quality of regeneration over long gaps.

Extracellular matrix from human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells as a scaffold for peripheral nerve regeneration

The extracellular matrix, which includes collagens, laminin, or fibronectin, plays an important role in peripheral nerve regeneration. Recently, a Schwann cell-derived extracellular matrix with classical biomaterial was used to mimic the neural niche. However, extensive clinical use of Schwann cells remains limited because of the limited origin, loss of an autologous nerve, and extended in vitro culture times. In the present study, human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs), which are easily accessible and more proliferative than Schwann cells, were used to prepare an extracellular matrix. We identified the morphology and function of hUCMSCs and investigated their effect on peripheral nerve regeneration. Compared with a non-coated dish tissue culture, the hUCMSC-derived extracellular matrix enhanced Schwann cell proliferation, upregulated gene and protein expression levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor in Schwann cells, and enhanced neurite outgrowth from dorsal root ganglion neurons. These findings suggest that the hUCMSC-derived extracellular matrix promotes peripheral nerve repair and can be used as a basis for the rational design of engineered neural niches.

Expression of an Activated Integrin Promotes Long-Distance Sensory Axon Regeneration in the Spinal Cord

After CNS injury, axon regeneration is blocked by an inhibitory environment consisting of the highly upregulated tenascin-C and chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs). Tenascin-C promotes growth of axons if they express a tenascin-binding integrin, particularly α9β1. Additionally, integrins can be inactivated by CSPGs, and this inhibition can be overcome by the presence of a β1-binding integrin activator, kindlin-1. We examined the synergistic effect of α9 integrin and kindlin-1 on sensory axon regeneration in adult rat spinal cord after dorsal root crush and adeno-associated virus transgene expression in dorsal root ganglia. After 12 weeks, axons from C6-C7 dorsal root ganglia regenerated through the tenascin-C-rich dorsal root entry zone into the dorsal column up to C1 level and above (>25 mm axon length) through a normal pathway. Animals also showed anatomical and electrophysiological evidence of reconnection to the dorsal horn and behavioral recovery in mechanical pressure, thermal pain, and ladder-walking tasks. Expression of α9 integrin or kindlin-1 alone promoted much less regeneration and recovery.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

The study demonstrates that long-distance sensory axon regeneration over a normal pathway and with sensory and sensory-motor recovery can be achieved. This was achieved by expressing an integrin that recognizes tenascin-C, one of the components of glial scar tissue, and an integrin activator. This enabled extensive long-distance (>25 mm) regeneration of both myelinated and unmyelinated sensory axons with topographically correct connections in the spinal cord. The extent of growth and recovery we have seen would probably be clinically significant. Restoration of sensation to hands, perineum, and genitalia would be a significant improvement for a spinal cord-injured patient.

Autocrine fibronectin from differentiating mesenchymal stem cells induces the neurite elongation in vitro and promotes nerve fiber regeneration in transected spinal cord injury

Extracellular matrix (ECM) expression is temporally and spatially regulated during the development of stem cells. We reported previously that fibronectin (FN) secreted by bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) was deposited on the surface of gelatin sponge (GS) soon after culture. In this study, we aimed to assess the function of accumulated FN on neuronal differentiating MSCs as induced by Schwann cells (SCs) in three dimensional transwell co‐culture system. The expression pattern and amount of FN of differentiating MSCs was examined by immunofluorescence, Western blot and immunoelectron microscopy. The results showed that FN accumulated inside GS scaffold, although its mRNA expression in MSCs was progressively decreased during neural induction. MSC‐derived neuron‐like cells showed spindle‐shaped cell body and long extending processes on FN‐decorated scaffold surface. However, after blocking of FN function by application of monoclonal antibodies, neuron‐like cells showed flattened cell body with short and thick neurites, together with decreased expression of integrin β1. In vivo transplantation study revealed that autocrine FN significantly facilitated endogenous nerve fiber regeneration in spinal cord transection model. Taken together, the present results showed that FN secreted by MSCs in the early stage accumulated on the GS scaffold and promoted the neurite elongation of neuronal differentiating MSCs as well as nerve fiber regeneration after spinal cord injury. This suggests that autocrine FN has a dynamic influence on MSCs in a three dimensional culture system and its potential application for treatment of traumatic spinal cord injury. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 1902–1911, 2016.

Can Diabetic Neuropathy Be Modeled In Vitro?

Diabetic neuropathy is a common secondary complication of diabetes that impacts on patient's health and well-being. Distal axon degeneration is a key feature of diabetic neuropathy, but the pathological changes which underlie axonal die-back are incompletely understood; despite decades of research a treatment has not yet been identified. Basic research must focus on understanding the complex mechanisms underlying changes that occur in the nervous system during diabetes. To this end, tissue culture techniques are invaluable as they enable researchers to examine the intricate mechanistic responses of cells to high glucose or other factors in order to better understand the pathogenesis of nerve dysfunction. This chapter describes the use of in vitro models to study a wide range of specific cellular effects pertaining to diabetic neuropathy including apoptosis, neurite outgrowth, neurodegeneration, activity, and bioenergetics. We consider problems associated with in vitro modeling and future refinement such as use of induced pluripotent stem cells and microfluidic technology.

Estradiol Facilitates Functional Integration of iPSC-Derived Dopaminergic Neurons into Striatal Neuronal Circuits via Activation of Integrin α5β1

For cell transplantation therapy for Parkinson's disease (PD) to be realized, the grafted neurons should be integrated into the host neuronal circuit to restore the lost neuronal function. Here, using wheat-germ agglutinin-based transsynaptic tracing, we show that integrin α5 is selectively expressed in striatal neurons that are innervated by midbrain dopaminergic (DA) neurons. In addition, we found that integrin α5β1 was activated by the administration of estradiol-2-benzoate (E2B) in striatal neurons of adult female rats. Importantly, we observed that the systemic administration of E2B into hemi-parkinsonian rat models facilitates the functional integration of grafted DA neurons derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells into the host striatal neuronal circuit via the activation of integrin α5β1. Finally, methamphetamine-induced abnormal rotation was recovered earlier in E2B-administered rats than in rats that received other regimens. Our results suggest that the simultaneous administration of E2B with stem cell-derived DA progenitors can enhance the efficacy of cell transplantation therapy for PD.

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Integrin α5 is expressed in striatal neurons innervated by nigral DA neurons

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Administration of E2B activates integrin α5β1 in the rat striatum

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E2B facilitates integration of grafted iPSC-derived DA neurons into host striatum

Substratum preferences of motor and sensory neurons in postnatal and adult rats

After peripheral nerve injuries, damaged axons can regenerate but functional recovery is limited by the specific reinnervation of targets. In this study we evaluated if motor and sensory neurites have a substrate preference for laminin and fibronectin in postnatal and adult stages. In postnatal dorsal root ganglia (DRG) explants, sensory neurons extended longer neurites on collagen matrices enriched with laminin (~50%) or fibronectin (~35%), whereas motoneurons extended longer neurites (~100%) in organotypic spinal cord slices embedded in fibronectin-enriched matrix. An increased percentage of parvalbumin-positive neurites (presumptive proprioceptive) vs. neurofilament-positive neurites was also found in DRG in fibronectin-enriched matrix. To test if the different preference of neurons for extracellular matrix components was maintained in vivo, these matrices were used to fill a chitosan guide to repair a 6-mm gap in the sciatic nerve of adult rats. However, the number of regenerating motor and sensory neurons after 1 month was similar between groups. Moreover, none of the retrotraced sensory neurons in DRG was positive for parvalbumin, suggesting that presumptive proprioceptive neurons had poor regenerative capabilities compared with other peripheral neurons. Using real-time PCR we evaluated the expression of α5β1 (receptor for fibronectin) and α7β1 integrin (receptor for laminin) in spinal cord and DRG 2 days after injury. Postnatal animals showed a higher increase of α5β1 integrin, whereas both integrins were similarly expressed in adult neurons. Therefore, we conclude that motor and sensory axons have a different substrate preference at early postnatal stages but this difference is lost in the adult.

Cell-specific translational profiling in acute kidney injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) promotes an abrupt loss of kidney function that results in substantial morbidity and mortality. Considerable effort has gone toward identification of diagnostic biomarkers and analysis of AKI-associated molecular events; however, most studies have adopted organ-wide approaches and have not elucidated the interplay among different cell types involved in AKI pathophysiology. To better characterize AKI-associated molecular and cellular events, we developed a mouse line that enables the identification of translational profiles in specific cell types. This strategy relies on CRE recombinase-dependent activation of an EGFP-tagged L10a ribosomal protein subunit, which allows translating ribosome affinity purification (TRAP) of mRNA populations in CRE-expressing cells. Combining this mouse line with cell type-specific CRE-driver lines, we identified distinct cellular responses in an ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) model of AKI. Twenty-four hours following IRI, distinct translational signatures were identified in the nephron, kidney interstitial cell populations, vascular endothelium, and macrophages/monocytes. Furthermore, TRAP captured known IRI-associated markers, validating this approach. Biological function annotation, canonical pathway analysis, and in situ analysis of identified response genes provided insight into cell-specific injury signatures. Our study provides a deep, cell-based view of early injury-associated molecular events in AKI and documents a versatile, genetic tool to monitor cell-specific and temporal-specific biological processes in disease modeling.

The role of peripheral nerve ECM components in the tissue engineering nerve construction

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is the naturally occurring substrate that provides a support structure and an attachment site for cells. It also produces a biological signal, which plays an important role in and has significant impact on cell adhesion, migration, proliferation, differentiation, and gene expression. Peripheral nerve repair is a complicated process involving Schwann cell proliferation and migration, 'bands of Büngner' formation, and newborn nerve extension. In the ECM of peripheral nerves, macromolecules are deposited among cells; these constitute the microenvironment of Schwann cell growth. Such macromolecules include collagen (I, III, IV, V), laminin, fibronectin, chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs), and other nerve factors. Collagen, the main component of ECM, provides structural support and guides newborn neurofilament extension. Laminin, fibronectin, CSPGs, and neurotrophic factors, are promoters or inhibitors, playing different roles in nerve repair after injury. By a chemical decellularization process, acellular nerve allografting eliminates the antigens responsible for allograft rejection and maintains most of the ECM components, which can effectively guide and enhance nerve regeneration. Thus, the composition and features of peripheral nerve ECM suggest its superiority as nerve repair material. This review focuses on the structure, function, and application in the tissue engineering nerve construction of the peripheral nerve ECM components.

Proregenerative properties of ECM molecules

After traumatic injuries to the nervous system, regrowing axons encounter a complex microenvironment where mechanisms that promote regeneration compete with inhibitory processes. Sprouting and axonal regrowth are key components of functional recovery but are often counteracted by inhibitory molecules. This review covers extracellular matrix molecules that support neuron axonal outgrowth.

Differentiated adipose-derived stem cells act synergistically with RGD-modified surfaces to improve neurite outgrowth in a co-culture model

Peripheral nerve damage is a problem encountered after trauma and during surgery and the development of synthetic polymer conduits may offer a promising alternative to autografts. In order to improve the performance of the polymer to be used for nerve conduits, poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) films were chemically functionalized with RGD moieties, using a chemical reaction previously developed. In vitro cultures of dissociated dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons provide a valid model to study different factors affecting axonal growth. In this work, DRG neurons were cultured on RGD-functionalized PCL films. Adult adipose-derived stem cells differentiated to Schwann cells (dASCs) were initially cultured on the functionalized PCL films, resulting in improved attachment and proliferation. dASCs were also co-cultured with DRG neurons on treated and untreated PCL to assess stimulation by dASCs on neurite outgrowth. Neuron response was generally poor on untreated PCL films, but long neurites were observed in the presence of dASCs or RGD moieties. A combination of the two factors enhanced even further neurite outgrowth, acting synergistically. Finally, in order to better understand the extracellular matrix (ECM)-cell interaction, a β1 integrin blocking experiment was carried out. Neurite outgrowth was not affected by the specific antibody blocking, showing that β1 integrin function can be compensated by other molecules present on the cell membrane. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Suppression of β1-integrin in gonadotropin-releasing hormone cells disrupts migration and axonal extension resulting in severe reproductive alterations

Reproduction in mammals is dependent on the function of hypothalamic neurons whose axons project to the hypothalamic median eminence (ME) where they release gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) into a specialized capillary network for delivery to the anterior pituitary. These neurons originate prenatally in the nasal placode and migrate into the forebrain along the olfactory-vomeronasal nerves. The complex developmental events leading to the correct establishment of the GnRH system are tightly regulated by the specific spatiotemporal expression patterns of guidance cues and extracellular matrix molecules, the functions of which, in part, are mediated by their binding to β1-subunit-containing integrins. To determine the biological role of these cell-surface proteins in reproduction, Cre/LoxP technology was used to generate GnRH neuron-specific β1-integrin conditional KO (GnRH-Itgb1(-/-)) mice. Loss of β1-integrin signaling impaired migration of GnRH neurons, their axonal extension to the ME, timing of pubertal onset, and fertility in these mice. These results identify β1-integrin as a gene involved in normal development of the GnRH system and demonstrate a fundamental role for this protein in acquisition of normal reproductive competence in female mice.

Extracellular matrix-associated gene expression in adult sensory neuron populations cultured on a laminin substrate

Background

In our previous investigations of the role of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in promoting neurite growth we have observed that a permissive laminin (LN) substrate stimulates differential growth responses in subpopulations of mature dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. DRG neurons expressing Trk and p75 receptors grow neurites on a LN substrate in the absence of neurotrophins, while isolectin B4-binding neurons (IB4⁺) do not display significant growth under the same conditions. We set out to determine whether there was an expression signature of the LN-induced neurite growth phenotype. Using a lectin binding protocol IB4⁺ neurons were isolated from dissociated DRG neurons, creating two groups - IB4⁺ and IB4^-. A small-scale microarray approach was employed to screen the expression of a panel of ECM-associated genes following dissociation (t=0) and after 24 hr culture on LN (t=24LN). This was followed by qRT-PCR and immunocytochemistry of selected genes.

Results

The microarray screen showed that 36 of the 144 genes on the arrays were consistently expressed by the neurons. The array analyses showed that six genes had lower expression in the IB4+ neurons compared to the IB4- cells at t=0 (CTSH, Icam1, Itgβ1, Lamb1, Plat, Spp1), and one gene was expressed at higher levels in the IB4⁺ cells (Plaur). qRT-PCR was carried out as an independent assessment of the array results. There were discrepancies between the two methods, with qRT-PCR confirming the differences in Lamb1, Plat and Plaur, and showing decreased expression of AdamTs1, FN, and Icam in the IB4⁺ cells at t=0. After 24 hr culture on LN, there were no significant differences detected by qRT-PCR between the IB4⁺ and IB4^- cells. However, both groups showed upregulation of Itgβ1 and Plaur after 24 hr on LN, the IB4⁺ group also had increased Plat, and the IB4^- cells showed decreased Lamb1, Icam1 and AdamTs1. Further, the array screen also detected a number of genes (not subjected to qRT-PCR) expressed similarly by both populations in relatively high levels but not detectably influenced by time in culture (Bsg, Cst3, Ctsb, Ctsd, Ctsl, Mmp14, Mmp19, Sparc. We carried out immunohistochemistry to confirm expression of proteins encoded by a number of these genes.

Conclusions

Our results show that 1B4⁺ and IB4^- neurons differ in the expression of several genes that are associated with responsiveness to the ECM prior to culturing (AdamTs1, FN, Icam1, Lamb1, Plat, Plaur). The data suggest that the genes expressed at higher levels in the IB4^- neurons could contribute to the initial growth response of these cells in a permissive environment and could also represent a common injury response that subsequently promotes axon regeneration. The differential expression of several extracellular matrix molecules (FN, Lamb1, Icam) may suggest that the IB4^- neurons are capable of maintaining /secreting their local extracellular environment which could aid in the regenerative process. Overall, these data provide new information on potential targets that could be manipulated to enhance axonal regeneration in the mature nervous system.

ARF6 directs axon transport and traffic of integrins and regulates axon growth in adult DRG neurons

Integrins are involved in axon growth and regeneration. Manipulation of integrins is a route to promoting axon regeneration and understanding regeneration failure in the CNS. Expression of α9 integrin promotes axon regeneration, so we have investigated α9β1 trafficking and transport in axons and at the growth cone. We have previously found that α9 and β1 integrins traffic via Rab11-positive recycling endosomes in peripheral axons and growth cones. However, transport via Rab11 is slow, while rapid transport occurs in vesicles lacking Rab11. We have further studied α9 and β1 integrin transport and traffic in adult rat dorsal root ganglion axons and PC12 cells. Integrins are in ARF6 vesicles during rapid axonal transport and during trafficking in the growth cone. We report that rapid axonal transport of these integrins and their trafficking at the cell surface is regulated by ARF6. ARF6 inactivation by expression of ACAP1 leads to increased recycling of β1 integrins to the neuronal surface and to increased anterograde axonal transport. ARF6 activation by expression of the neuronal guanine nucleotide exchange factors, ARNO or EFA6, increases retrograde integrin transport in axons and increases integrin internalization. ARF6 inactivation increases integrin-mediated outgrowth, while activation decreases it. The coordinated changes in integrin transport and recycling resulting from ARF6 activation or inactivation are the probable mechanism behind this regulation of axon growth. Our data suggest a novel mechanism of integrin traffic and transport in peripheral axons, regulated by the activation state of ARF6, and suggest that ARF6 might be targeted to enhance integrin-dependent axon regeneration after injury.

Interactions between ICAM-5 and β1 integrins regulate neuronal synapse formation

Intercellular adhesion molecule-5 (ICAM-5) is a dendrite-specific adhesion molecule, which functions in both the immune and nervous systems. ICAM-5 is the only negative regulator that has been identified for maturation of dendritic spines so far. Shedding of the ICAM-5 ectodomain promotes spine maturation and enhances synaptic activity. However, the mechanism by which ICAM-5 regulates spine development remains poorly understood. In this study, we found that ablation of ICAM5 expression resulted in a significant increase in the formation of synaptic contacts and the frequency of miniature excitatory post-synaptic currents, an indicator of pre-synaptic release probability. Antibodies against ICAM-5 and β1 integrins altered spine maturation. Furthermore, we found that β1 integrins serve as binding partners for ICAM-5. β1 integrins were immunoprecipitated with ICAM-5 from mouse brain and the binding region in ICAM-5 was localized to the two first Ig domains. β1 integrins were juxtaposed to filopodia tips at the early stage of synaptic formation, but as synapses matured, β1 integrins covered the mushroom spines. Loss of β1 integrins from the pre-synaptic sites affected the morphology of the post-synaptic structures. ICAM-5 ectodomain cleavage decreased or increased when the interaction between ICAM-5 and β1 integrins was potentiated or weakened, respectively, using antibodies. These results suggest that the interaction between ICAM-5 and β1 integrins is important in formation of functional synapses.

Extracellular matrix molecules enhance the neurotrophic effect of Schwann cell-like differentiated adipose-derived stem cells and increase cell survival under stress conditions

Since the first reports of induction of adipose-derived stem cells (ASC) into neuronal and glial cell phenotypes, expectations have increased regarding their use in tissue engineering applications for nerve repair. Cell adhesion to extracellular matrix (ECM) is a basic feature of survival, differentiation, and migration of Schwann cells (SC) during nerve regeneration, and fibronectin and laminin are two key molecules of this process. Interaction between ECM and SC-like differentiated ASC (dASC) could potentially improve the neurotrophic potential of the stem cells. We have investigated the effect of ECM molecules on SC-like dASC in terms of proliferation, adhesion, and cell viability. Fibronectin and laminin did not affect the proliferation of dASC when compared with cell adherent tissue culture plastic, but significantly improved viability and cell attachment when dASC were exposed to apoptotic conditions. To assess the influence of the ECM molecules on dASC neurotrophic activity, dASC were seeded onto ECM-coated culture inserts suspended above dorsal root ganglia (DRG) sensory neurons. Neurite outgrowth of DRG neurons was enhanced when dASC were seeded on fibronectin and laminin when compared with controls. When DRG neurons and dASC were in direct contact on the various surfaces there was significantly enhanced neurite outgrowth and coculture with laminin-conditioned dASC produced the longest neurites. Compared with primary SCs, dASC grown on laminin produced similar levels of neurite outgrowth in the culture insert experiments but neurite length was shorter in the direct contact groups. Anti β1 integrin blocking antibody could inhibit baseline and dASC evoked neurite elongation but had no effect on outgrowth mediated by laminin-conditioned dASC. ECM molecules had no effect on the levels of nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor secretion from dASC. The results of the study suggest that ECM molecules can significantly improve the potential of dASC for nerve regeneration.

Specificity of peripheral nerve regeneration: interactions at the axon level

Peripheral nerves injuries result in paralysis, anesthesia and lack of autonomic control of the affected body areas. After injury, axons distal to the lesion are disconnected from the neuronal body and degenerate, leading to denervation of the peripheral organs. Wallerian degeneration creates a microenvironment distal to the injury site that supports axonal regrowth, while the neuron body changes in phenotype to promote axonal regeneration. The significance of axonal regeneration is to replace the degenerated distal nerve segment, and achieve reinnervation of target organs and restitution of their functions. However, axonal regeneration does not always allows for adequate functional recovery, so that after a peripheral nerve injury, patients do not recover normal motor control and fine sensibility. The lack of specificity of nerve regeneration, in terms of motor and sensory axons regrowth, pathfinding and target reinnervation, is one the main shortcomings for recovery. Key factors for successful axonal regeneration include the intrinsic changes that neurons suffer to switch their transmitter state to a pro-regenerative state and the environment that the axons find distal to the lesion site. The molecular mechanisms implicated in axonal regeneration and pathfinding after injury are complex, and take into account the cross-talk between axons and glial cells, neurotrophic factors, extracellular matrix molecules and their receptors. The aim of this review is to look at those interactions, trying to understand if some of these molecular factors are specific for motor and sensory neuron growth, and provide the basic knowledge for potential strategies to enhance and guide axonal regeneration and reinnervation of adequate target organs.

Extrinsic cellular and molecular mediators of peripheral axonal regeneration

The ability of injured peripheral nerves to regenerate and reinnervate their original targets is a characteristic feature of the peripheral nervous system (PNS). On the other hand, neurons of the central nervous system (CNS), including retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons, are incapable of spontaneous regeneration. In the adult PNS, axonal regeneration after injury depends on well-orchestrated cellular and molecular processes that comprise a highly reproducible series of degenerative reactions distal to the site of injury. During this fine-tuned process, named Wallerian degeneration, a remodeling of the distal nerve fragment prepares a permissive microenvironment that permits successful axonal regrowth originating from the proximal nerve fragment. Therefore, a multitude of adjusted intrinsic and extrinsic factors are important for surviving neurons, Schwann cells, macrophages and fibroblasts as well as endothelial cells in order to achieve successful regeneration. The aim of this review is to summarize relevant extrinsic cellular and molecular determinants of successful axonal regeneration in rodents that contribute to the regenerative microenvironment of the PNS.

Fibronectin supports neurite outgrowth and axonal regeneration of adult brain neurons in vitro

The molecular basis of axonal regeneration of central nervous system (CNS) neurons remains to be fully elucidated. In part, this is due to the difficulty in maintaining CNS neurons in vitro. Here, we show that dissociated neurons from the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of adult mice may be maintained in culture for up to 9 days in defined medium without added growth factors. Outgrowth of neurites including axons was observed from both CNS sources and was significantly greater on plasma fibronectin than on other substrata such as laminin and merosin. Neurite outgrowth on fibronectin appears to be mediated by α5β1 integrin since a recombinant fibronectin fragment containing binding sites for this receptor was as effective as intact fibronectin in supporting neurite outgrowth. Conversely, function-blocking antibodies to α5 and β1 integrin sub-units inhibited neurite outgrowth on intact fibronectin. These results suggest that the axonal regeneration seen in in vivo studies using fibronectin-based matrices is due to the molecule itself and not a consequence of secondary events such as cellular infiltration. They also indicate the domains of fibronectin that may be responsible for eliciting this response.

Intrinsic mechanisms regulating axon regeneration: an integrin perspective

Adult central nervous system (CNS) axons fail to regenerate after injury because of inhibitory factors in the surrounding environment and a low intrinsic regenerative capacity. Axons in the adult peripheral nervous system have a higher regenerative capacity, due in part to the presence of certain integrins-receptors for the extracellular matrix. Integrins are critical for axon growth during the development of the nervous system but are absent from some adult CNS axons. Here, we discuss the intrinsic mechanisms that regulate axon regeneration and examine the role of integrins. As correct localization is paramount to integrin function, we further discuss the mechanisms that regulate integrin traffic toward the axonal growth cone.

Rab11 and its effector Rab coupling protein contribute to the trafficking of beta 1 integrins during axon growth in adult dorsal root ganglion neurons and PC12 cells

Integrins play an important part in axon growth, but integrin traffic in neurons is poorly understood. Expression of the tenascin-C-binding integrin alpha9 promotes axon regeneration. We have therefore studied the mechanism by which alpha9 integrin and its partner beta1 are trafficked along axons and at the growth cone using adult DRG neurons and PC12 cells. We have focused on the small GTPase Rab11 and its effector Rab coupling protein (RCP), as they are involved in the long-range trafficking of beta1 integrins in other cells. Rab11 colocalizes with alpha9 and other alpha integrins and with beta1 integrin in growth cones and axons, and immunopurified Rab11 vesicles contain alpha9 and beta1. Endocytosed beta1 integrins traffic via Rab11. However, Rab11 vesicles in axons are generally static, and alpha9 integrins undergo bouts of movement during which they leave the Rab11 compartment. In growth cones, alpha9 and beta1 overlap with RCP, particularly at the growth cone periphery. We show that beta1 integrin trafficking during neurite outgrowth involves Rab11 and RCP, and that manipulation of these molecules alters surface integrin levels and axon growth, and can be used to enhance alpha9 integrin-dependent neurite outgrowth. Our data suggest that manipulation of trafficking via Rab11 and RCP could be a useful strategy for promoting integrin-dependent axonal regeneration.

Expression of alpha5 integrin rescues fibronectin responsiveness in NT2N CNS neuronal cells

The extracellular matrix protein fibronectin is implicated in neuronal regeneration in the peripheral nervous system. In the central nervous system (CNS), fibronectin is up-regulated at sites of penetrating injuries and stroke; however, CNS neurons down-regulate the fibronectin receptor alpha5beta1 integrin during differentiation and generally respond poorly to fibronectin. NT2N CNS neuron-like cells (derived from NT2 precursor cells) have been used in preclinical and clinical studies for treatment of stroke and a variety of CNS injury and disease models. Here we show that, like primary CNS neurons, NT2N cells down-regulate alpha5beta1 integrin during differentiation and respond poorly to fibronectin. The poor neurite outgrowth by NT2N cells on fibronectin can be rescued by transducing NT2 precursors with a retroviral vector expressing alpha5 integrin under the control of the murine stem cell virus 5' long terminal repeat. Sustained alpha5 integrin expression is compatible with the CNS-like neuronal differentiation of NT2N cells and does not prevent robust neurite outgrowth on other integrin ligands. Thus, alpha5 integrin expression in CNS neuronal precursor cells may provide a strategy for enhancing the outgrowth and survival of implanted cells in cell-replacement therapies for CNS injury and disease.

Integrin alpha5beta1 is necessary for regulation of radial migration of cortical neurons during mouse brain development

During cerebral cortex development, post-mitotic neurons interact with radial glial fibers and the extracellular environment to migrate away from the ventricular region and form a correct laminar structure. Integrin receptors are major mediators of cell–cell and cell–extracellular matrix interactions. Several integrin heterodimers are present during formation of the cortical layers. The α5β1 receptor is expressed in the neural progenitors of the ventricular zone during cerebral cortex formation. Using in utero electroporation to introduce short hairpin RNAs in the brain at embryonic day 15.5, we were able to inhibit acutely the expression of α5 integrin in the developing cortex. The knockdown of α5 integrin expression level in neural precursors resulted in an inhibition of radial migration, without perturbing the glial scaffold. Moreover, the same inhibitory effect on neuronal migration was observed after electroporation of a Cre recombinase expression plasmid into the neural progenitors of conditional knockout mice for α5 integrin. In both types of experiments, the electroporated cells expressing reduced levels of α5 integrin accumulated in the premigratory region with an abnormal morphology. At postnatal day 2, ectopic neurons were observed in cortical layer V, while a deficit of neurons was observed in cortical layer II–IV. We show that these neurons do not express a layer V-specific marker, suggesting that they have not undergone premature differentiation. Overall, these results indicate that α5β1 integrin functions in the regulation of neural morphology and migration during cortical development, playing a role in cortical lamination.

Advanced glycation end products in extracellular matrix proteins contribute to the failure of sensory nerve regeneration in diabetes

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to characterize glycation adducts formed in both in vivo extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins of endoneurium from streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats and in vitro by glycation of laminin and fibronectin with methylglyoxal and glucose. We also investigated the impact of advanced glycation end product (AGE) residue content of ECM on neurite outgrowth from sensory neurons.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Glycation, oxidation, and nitration adducts of ECM proteins extracted from the endoneurium of control and STZ-induced diabetic rat sciatic nerve (3-24 weeks post-STZ) and of laminin and fibronectin that had been glycated using glucose or methylglyoxal were examined by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Methylglyoxal-glycated or unmodified ECM proteins were used as substrata for dissociated rat sensory neurons as in vitro models of regeneration.

RESULTS

STZ-induced diabetes produced a significant increase in early glycation N(epsilon)-fructosyl-lysine and AGE residue contents of endoneurial ECM. Glycation of laminin and fibronectin by methylglyoxal and glucose increased glycation adduct residue contents with methylglyoxal-derived hydroimidazolone and N(epsilon)-fructosyl-lysine, respectively, of greatest quantitative importance. Glycation of laminin caused a significant decrease in both neurotrophin-stimulated and preconditioned sensory neurite outgrowth. This decrease was prevented by aminoguanidine. Glycation of fibronectin also decreased preconditioned neurite outgrowth, which was prevented by aminoguanidine and nerve growth factor.

CONCLUSIONS

Early glycation and AGE residue content of endoneurial ECM proteins increase markedly in STZ-induced diabetes. Glycation of laminin and fibronectin causes a reduction in neurotrophin-stimulated neurite outgrowth and preconditioned neurite outgrowth. This may provide a mechanism for the failure of collateral sprouting and axonal regeneration in diabetic neuropathy.

Alpha9 integrin promotes neurite outgrowth on tenascin-C and enhances sensory axon regeneration

Damaged CNS axons are prevented from regenerating by an environment containing many inhibitory factors. They also lack an integrin that interacts with tenascin-C, the main extracellular matrix glycoprotein of the CNS, which is upregulated after injury. The alpha9beta1 integrin heterodimer is a receptor for the nonalternatively spliced region of tenascin-C, but the alpha9 subunit is absent in adult neurons. In this study, we show that PC12 cells and adult rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons do not extend neurites on tenascin-C. However, after forced expression of alpha9 integrin, extensive neurite outgrowth from PC12 cells and adult rat DRG neurons occurs. Moreover, both DRG neurons and PC12 cells secrete tenascin-C, enabling alpha9-transfected cells to grow axons on tissue culture plastic. Using adeno-associated viruses to express alpha9 integrin in vivo in DRGs, we examined axonal regeneration after cervical dorsal rhizotomy or dorsal column crush in the adult rat. After rhizotomy, significantly more dorsal root axons regrew into the dorsal root entry zone at 6 weeks after injury in alpha9 integrin-expressing animals than in green fluorescent protein (GFP) controls. Similarly, after a dorsal column crush injury, there was significantly more axonal growth into the lesion site compared with GFP controls at 6 weeks after injury. Behavioral analysis after spinal cord injury revealed that both experimental and control groups had an increased withdrawal latency in response to mechanical stimulation when compared with sham controls; however, in response to heat stimulation, normal withdrawal latencies returned after alpha9 integrin treatment but remained elevated in control groups.

Development of selective axonopathy in adult sensory neurons isolated from diabetic rats: role of glucose-induced oxidative stress

OBJECTIVE

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are pro-oxidant factors in distal neurodegeneration in diabetes. We tested the hypothesis that sensory neurons exposed to type 1 diabetes would exhibit enhanced ROS and oxidative stress and determined whether this stress was associated with abnormal axon outgrowth.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Lumbar dorsal root ganglia sensory neurons from normal or 3- to 5-month streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats were cultured with 10 or 25-50 mmol/l glucose. Cell survival and axon outgrowth were assessed. ROS were analyzed using confocal microscopy. Immunofluorescent staining detected expression of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) and adducts of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), and MitoFluor Green dye detected mitochondria.

RESULTS

Dorsal root ganglion neurons from normal rats exposed to 25-50 mmol/l glucose did not exhibit oxidative stress or cell death. Cultures from diabetic rats exhibited a twofold (P < 0.001) elevation of ROS in axons after 24 h in 25 mmol/l glucose compared with 10 mmol/l glucose or mannitol. Perikarya exhibited no change in ROS levels. Axonal outgrowth was reduced by approximately twofold (P < 0.001) in diabetic cultures compared with control, as was expression of MnSOD. The antioxidant N-acetyl-cysteine (1 mmol/l) lowered axonal ROS levels, normalized aberrant axonal structure, and prevented deficits in axonal outgrowth in diabetic neurons (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Dorsal root ganglia neurons with a history of diabetes expressed low MnSOD and high ROS in axons. Oxidative stress was initiated by high glucose concentration in neurons with an STZ-induced diabetic phenotype. Induction of ROS was associated with impaired axonal outgrowth and aberrant dystrophic structures that may precede or predispose the axon to degeneration and dissolution in human diabetic neuropathy.

Peripheral sensory axon growth: from receptor binding to cellular signaling

Regeneration following axonal injury of the adult peripheral sensory nervous system is heavily influenced by factors located in a neuron's extracellular environment. These factors include neurotrophins, such as Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and the extracellular matrix, such as laminin. The presence of these molecules in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) is a major contributing factor for the dichotomy between regenerative capacities of central vs. peripheral neurons. Although PNS neurons are capable of spontaneous regeneration, this response is critically dependent on many different factors including the type, location and severity of the injury. In this article, we will focus on the plasticity of adult dorsal root ganglion (DRG) sensory neurons and how trophic factors and the extracellular environment stimulate the activation of intracellular signaling cascades that promote axonal growth in adult dorsal root ganglion neurons.

Differences in c-jun and nNOS expression levels in motoneurons following different kinds of axonal injury in adult rats

In the peripheral nervous system (PNS), root avulsion causes motoneuron degeneration, but the majority of motoneurons can survive axotomy. In order to study the mechanism of motoneuron degeneration, we compared the expression patterns of c-jun and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), the well-known molecular players in PNS regeneration and degeneration, among adult rats having undergone axotomy (Ax), avulsion (Av), or pre-axotomy plus secondary avulsion (Ax + Av) of the brachial plexus. Our results showed that the highest and longest-lasting c-jun activation occurred in Ax, which was much stronger than those in Av and Ax + Av. The time course and intensity of c-jun expression in Ax + Av were similar to those in Av except on day 1, while the pre-axotomy condition resulted in a transient up-regulation of c-jun to a level comparable to that in Ax. Axotomy alone did not induce nNOS expression in motoneurons. Pre-axotomy left-shifted the time course of nNOS induction in Ax + Av compared to that in Av. Motoneuron loss was not evident in Ax, while it was 70% in Av and more than 85% in Ax + Av at 8 weeks postinjury. The survival of motoneurons was positively correlated with c-jun induction, but not with nNOS expression in motoneurons. Moreover, c-jun induction was negatively correlated with nNOS induction in injured motoneurons. Our results indicate that functional crosstalk between c-jun and nNOS might play an important role in avulsion-induced motoneuron degeneration, while c-jun might act as a prerequisite survival factor and nNOS might act as a predictor for the onset of motoneuron degeneration.

Interplay between adhesion turnover and cytoskeleton dynamics in the control of growth cone migration

The migration of neuronal growth cones, driving axon extension, is a fascinating process which has been subject of intense investigation over several decades. Many of the key underlying molecules, in particular adhesion proteins at the cell membrane which allow for target recognition and binding, and cytoskeleton filaments and motors which power locomotion have been identified. However, the precise mechanisms by which growth cones coordinate, in time and space, the transmission of forces generated by the cytoskeleton to the turnover of adhesion proteins are still partly unresolved. To get a better grasp at these processes, we put here in relation the turnover rate of ligand/receptor adhesions and the degree of mechanical coupling between cell adhesion receptors and the actin rearward flow. These parameters were obtained recently for N-cadherin and IgCAM based adhesions using ligand-coated microspheres in combination with optical tweezers and photo-bleaching experiments. We show that the speed of growth cone migration requires both a fairly rapid adhesion dynamics and a strong physical connection between adhesive sites and the cytoskeleton.

Integrin-laminin interactions controlling neurite outgrowth from adult DRG neurons in vitro

A prerequisite for axon regeneration is the interaction between the growth cone and the extracellular matrix (ECM). Laminins are prominent constituents of ECM throughout the body, known to support axon growth in vitro and in vivo. The regenerative capacity of adult neurons is greatly diminished compared to embryonic or early postnatal neurons. Since most lesions in the nervous system occur in the adult, we have examined neurite outgrowth from adult mouse DRG neurons on four laminin isoforms (laminin-1/LM-111, laminin-2/LM-211, laminin-8/LM-411 and laminin-10/LM-511) in vitro. The growth on laminin-1 and -10 was trophic factor-independent and superior to the one on laminin-2 and -8, where growth was very poor in the absence of neurotrophins. Among other ECM proteins, laminins were by far the most active molecules. Using function-blocking antibodies to laminin-binding integrins, we identified non-overlapping functions of integrins alpha3beta1, alpha7beta1 and alpha6beta1 on different laminin isoforms, in that alpha3beta1 and alpha7beta1 integrins appeared to be specific receptors for both laminin-1 and-2, whereas integrin alpha6beta1 was a receptor for laminin-8 and-10. Lastly, by use of immunohistochemistry, expression of subunits of laminin-1, -2, -8 and -10 in sensory organs in the human epidermis could be demonstrated, supporting an important role for these laminins in relation to primary sensory axons.