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Bai T, Duan H, Zhang B, Hao P, Zhao W, Gao Y, Yang Z, Li X. Neuronal differentiation and functional maturation of neurons from neural stem cells induced by bFGF-chitosan controlled release system. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2023:10.1007/s13346-023-01322-x. [PMID: 36943630 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01322-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Available methods for differentiating stem cells into neurons require a large number of cytokines and neurotrophic factors, with complex steps and slow processes, and are inefficient to produce functional neurons and form synaptic contacts, which is expensive and impractical in clinical application. Here, we demonstrated a bioactive material, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)-chitosan controlled release system, for facilitating neuronal differentiation from NSCs and the functional maturation of the induced neurons with high efficiency. We illustrated by immunostaining that the neurons derived from NSCs expressed mature immunomarkers of interneurons and excitatory neurons. And we found by patch-clamp that the induced neurons exhibited diverse electrophysiological properties as well as formed functional synapses. In vivo, we implanted bFGF-chitosan into lesion area in traumatic brain injury (TBI) mice and similarly observed abundance of neuroblasts in SVZ and the presence of newborn functional neurons in injury area, which integrated into synaptic networks. Taken together, our efficient and rapid tissue engineering approach may be a potential method for the generation of functional neuronal lineage cells from stem cells and a therapy of brain injury and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyu Bai
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, No. 37 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongmei Duan
- Department of Neurobiology, Fengtai District, Capital Medical University, No. 10 Xitoutiao Strip, Beijing, 100069, People's Republic of China
| | - Boya Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Fengtai District, Capital Medical University, No. 10 Xitoutiao Strip, Beijing, 100069, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Hao
- Department of Neurobiology, Fengtai District, Capital Medical University, No. 10 Xitoutiao Strip, Beijing, 100069, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, Fengtai District, Capital Medical University, No. 10 Xitoutiao Strip, Beijing, 100069, People's Republic of China
| | - Yudan Gao
- Department of Neurobiology, Fengtai District, Capital Medical University, No. 10 Xitoutiao Strip, Beijing, 100069, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaoyang Yang
- Department of Neurobiology, Fengtai District, Capital Medical University, No. 10 Xitoutiao Strip, Beijing, 100069, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaoguang Li
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, No. 37 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100083, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Neurobiology, Fengtai District, Capital Medical University, No. 10 Xitoutiao Strip, Beijing, 100069, People's Republic of China.
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Sibuea S, Ho JK, Pouton CW, Haynes JM. TGFβ3, dibutyryl cAMP and a notch inhibitor modulate phenotype late in stem cell-derived dopaminergic neuron maturation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1111705. [PMID: 36819101 PMCID: PMC9928866 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1111705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The generation of midbrain dopaminergic neurons (mDAs) from pluripotent stem cells (hPSC) holds much promise for both disease modelling studies and as a cell therapy for Parkinson's disease (PD). Generally, dopaminergic neuron differentiation paradigms rely on inhibition of smad signalling for neural induction followed by hedgehog signalling and an elevation of β-catenin to drive dopaminergic differentiation. Post-patterning, differentiating dopaminergic neuron cultures are permitted time for maturation after which the success of these differentiation paradigms is usually defined by expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the rate limiting enzyme in the synthesis of dopamine. However, during maturation, culture media is often supplemented with additives to promote neuron survival and or promote cell differentiation. These additives include dibutyryl cyclic adenosine monophosphate (dbcAMP), transforming growth factor β3 (TGFβ3) and or the γ-secretase inhibitor (DAPT). While these factors are routinely added to cultures, their impact upon pluripotent stem cell-derived mDA phenotype is largely unclear. In this study, we differentiate pluripotent stem cells toward a dopaminergic phenotype and investigate how the omission of dbcAMP, TGFβ3 or DAPT, late in maturation, affects the regulation of multiple dopaminergic neuron phenotype markers. We now show that the removal of dbcAMP or TGFβ3 significantly and distinctly impacts multiple markers of the mDA phenotype (FOXA2, EN1, EN2, FOXA2, SOX6), while commonly increasing both MSX2 and NEUROD1 and reducing expression of both tyrosine hydroxylase and WNT5A. Removing DAPT significantly impacted MSX2, OTX2, EN1, and KCNJ6. In the absence of any stressful stimuli, we suggest that these culture additives should be viewed as mDA phenotype-modifying, rather than neuroprotective. We also suggest that their addition to cultures is likely to confound the interpretation of both transplantation and disease modelling studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanti Sibuea
- Stem Cell Biology Group, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia,National Agency of Drug and Food Control, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Joan K. Ho
- Stem Cell Biology Group, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Colin W. Pouton
- Stem Cell Biology Group, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - John M. Haynes
- Stem Cell Biology Group, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia,*Correspondence: John M. Haynes,
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Baldassari S, Cervetto C, Amato S, Fruscione F, Balagura G, Pelassa S, Musante I, Iacomino M, Traverso M, Corradi A, Scudieri P, Maura G, Marcoli M, Zara F. Vesicular Glutamate Release from Feeder-FreehiPSC-Derived Neurons. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810545. [PMID: 36142455 PMCID: PMC9501332 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) represent one of the main and powerful tools for the in vitro modeling of neurological diseases. Standard hiPSC-based protocols make use of animal-derived feeder systems to better support the neuronal differentiation process. Despite their efficiency, such protocols may not be appropriate to dissect neuronal specific properties or to avoid interspecies contaminations, hindering their future translation into clinical and drug discovery approaches. In this work, we focused on the optimization of a reproducible protocol in feeder-free conditions able to generate functional glutamatergic neurons. This protocol is based on a generation of neuroprecursor cells differentiated into human neurons with the administration in the culture medium of specific neurotrophins in a Geltrex-coated substrate. We confirmed the efficiency of this protocol through molecular analysis (upregulation of neuronal markers and neurotransmitter receptors assessed by gene expression profiling and expression of the neuronal markers at the protein level), morphological analysis, and immunfluorescence detection of pre-synaptic and post-synaptic markers at synaptic boutons. The hiPSC-derived neurons acquired Ca2+-dependent glutamate release properties as a hallmark of neuronal maturation. In conclusion, our study describes a new methodological approach to achieve feeder-free neuronal differentiation from hiPSC and adds a new tool for functional characterization of hiPSC-derived neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Baldassari
- Unit of Medical Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Chiara Cervetto
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
- Interuniversity Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching and Research (Centro 3R), 56100 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.C.); (M.M.)
| | - Sarah Amato
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
| | - Floriana Fruscione
- Unit of Medical Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Ganna Balagura
- Unit of Medical Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Largo Paolo Daneo 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Simone Pelassa
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
| | - Ilaria Musante
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Largo Paolo Daneo 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Michele Iacomino
- Unit of Medical Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Monica Traverso
- Paediatric Neurology and Neuromuscular Disorders Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy
| | - Anna Corradi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Paolo Scudieri
- Unit of Medical Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Largo Paolo Daneo 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Guido Maura
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
| | - Manuela Marcoli
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy
- Interuniversity Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching and Research (Centro 3R), 56100 Pisa, Italy
- Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research, Viale Benedetto XV, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.C.); (M.M.)
| | - Federico Zara
- Unit of Medical Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Largo Paolo Daneo 3, 16132 Genova, Italy
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Schick R, Farah N, Markus A, Korngreen A, Mandel Y. Electrophysiologic Characterization of Developing Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Photoreceptor Precursors. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:44. [PMID: 32991686 PMCID: PMC7533729 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.11.44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Photoreceptor precursor cells (PRPs) differentiated from human embryonic stem cells can serve as a source for cell replacement therapy aimed at vision restoration in patients suffering from degenerative diseases of the outer retina, such as retinitis pigmentosa and AMD. In this work, we studied the electrophysiologic maturation of PRPs throughout the differentiation process. Methods Human embryonic stem cells were differentiated into PRPs and whole-cell recordings were performed for electrophysiologic characterization at days 0, 30, 60, and 90 along with quantitative PCR analysis to characterize the expression level of various ion channels, which shape the electrophysiologic response. Finally, to characterize the electrically induced calcium currents, we employed calcium imaging (rhod4) to visualize intracellular calcium dynamics in response to electrical activation. Results Our results revealed an early and steady presence (approximately 100% of responsive cells) of the delayed potassium rectifier current. In contrast, the percentage of cells exhibiting voltage-gated sodium currents increased with maturation (from 0% to almost 90% of responsive cells at 90 days). Moreover, calcium imaging revealed the presence of voltage-gated calcium currents, which play a major role in vision formation. These results were further supported by quantitative PCR analysis, which revealed a significant and continuous (3- to 50-fold) increase in the expression of various voltage-gated channels concomitantly with the increase in the expression of the photoreceptor marker CRX. Conclusions These results can shed light on the electrophysiologic maturation of neurons in general and PRP in particular and can form the basis for devising and optimizing cell replacement-based vision restoration strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Revital Schick
- School of Optometry and Visual Science, Faculty of Life Science and Bar-Ilan Institute for Nanotechnology and Advanced material (BINA), Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Nairouz Farah
- School of Optometry and Visual Science, Faculty of Life Science and Bar-Ilan Institute for Nanotechnology and Advanced material (BINA), Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Amos Markus
- School of Optometry and Visual Science, Faculty of Life Science and Bar-Ilan Institute for Nanotechnology and Advanced material (BINA), Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Alon Korngreen
- Faculty of Life Science and The Leslie and Susan Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Yossi Mandel
- School of Optometry and Visual Science, Faculty of Life Science and Bar-Ilan Institute for Nanotechnology and Advanced material (BINA), Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
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Current State-of-the-Art and Unresolved Problems in Using Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Dopamine Neurons for Parkinson's Disease Drug Development. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073381. [PMID: 33806103 PMCID: PMC8037675 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells have the potential to give rise to a new era in Parkinson's disease (PD) research. As a unique source of midbrain dopaminergic (DA) neurons, iPS cells provide unparalleled capabilities for investigating the pathogenesis of PD, the development of novel anti-parkinsonian drugs, and personalized therapy design. Significant progress in developmental biology of midbrain DA neurons laid the foundation for their efficient derivation from iPS cells. The introduction of 3D culture methods to mimic the brain microenvironment further expanded the vast opportunities of iPS cell-based research of the neurodegenerative diseases. However, while the benefits for basic and applied studies provided by iPS cells receive widespread coverage in the current literature, the drawbacks of this model in its current state, and in particular, the aspects of differentiation protocols requiring further refinement are commonly overlooked. This review summarizes the recent data on general and subtype-specific features of midbrain DA neurons and their development. Here, we review the current protocols for derivation of DA neurons from human iPS cells and outline their general weak spots. The associated gaps in the contemporary knowledge are considered and the possible directions for future research that may assist in improving the differentiation conditions and increase the efficiency of using iPS cell-derived neurons for PD drug development are discussed.
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Coppi E, Cherchi F, Sarchielli E, Fusco I, Guarnieri G, Gallina P, Corradetti R, Pedata F, Vannelli GB, Pugliese AM, Morelli A. Acetylcholine modulates K + and Na + currents in human basal forebrain cholinergic neuroblasts through an autocrine/paracrine mechanism. J Neurochem 2020; 157:1182-1195. [PMID: 33030215 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The Nucleus Basalis of Meynert (NBM) is the main source of cholinergic neurons in the basal forebrain to be crucially involved in cognitive functions and whose degeneration correlates with cognitive decline in major degenerative pathologies as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. However, knowledge concerning NBM neurons derived from human brain is very limited to date. We recently characterized a primary culture of proliferating neuroblasts isolated from the human fetal NBM (hfNBM) as immature cholinergic neurons expressing the machinery to synthetize and release acetylcholine. Here we studied in detail electrophysiological features and cholinergic effects in this cell culture by patch-clamp recordings. Our data demonstrate that atropine-blocked muscarinic receptor activation by acetylcholine or carbachol enhanced IK and reduced INa currents by stimulating Gi -coupled M2 or phospholipase C-coupled M3 receptors, respectively. Inhibition of acetylcholine esterase activity by neostigmine unveiled a spontaneous acetylcholine release from hfNBM neuroblasts that might account for an autocrine/paracrine signaling during human brain development. Present data provide the first description of cholinergic effects in human NBM neurons and point to a role of acetylcholine as an autocrine/paracrine modulator of voltage-dependent channels. Our research could be of relevance in understanding the mechanisms of cholinergic system development and functions in the human brain, either in health or disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Coppi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Firenze, Italy
| | - Federica Cherchi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Firenze, Italy
| | - Erica Sarchielli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Irene Fusco
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Firenze, Italy
| | - Giulia Guarnieri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pasquale Gallina
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Firenze, Italy
| | - Renato Corradetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Firenze, Italy
| | - Felicita Pedata
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Firenze, Italy
| | - Gabriella B Vannelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Pugliese
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Firenze, Italy
| | - Annamaria Morelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Ojeda J, Ávila A. Early Actions of Neurotransmitters During Cortex Development and Maturation of Reprogrammed Neurons. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2019; 11:33. [PMID: 31824293 PMCID: PMC6881277 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2019.00033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of the brain is shaped by a myriad of factors among which neurotransmitters play remarkable roles before and during the formation and maturation of synaptic circuits. Cellular processes such as neurogenesis, morphological development, synaptogenesis and maturation of synapses are temporary and spatially regulated by the local or distal influence of neurotransmitters in the developing cortex. Thus, research on this area has contributed to the understanding of fundamental mechanisms of brain development and to shed light on the etiology of various human neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and Rett syndrome (RTT), among others. Recently, the field of neuroscience has been shaken by an explosive advance of experimental approaches linked to the use of induced pluripotent stem cells and reprogrammed neurons. This new technology has allowed researchers for the first time to model in the lab the unique events that take place during early human brain development and to explore the mechanisms that cause synaptopathies. In this context, the role of neurotransmitters during early stages of cortex development is beginning to be re-evaluated and a revision of the state of the art has become necessary in a time when new protocols are being worked out to differentiate stem cells into functional neurons. New perspectives on reconsidering the function of neurotransmitters include opportunities for methodological advances, a better understanding of the origin of mental disorders and the potential for development of new treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Ojeda
- Developmental Neurobiology Unit, Biomedical Sciences Research Laboratory, Basic Sciences Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Ariel Ávila
- Developmental Neurobiology Unit, Biomedical Sciences Research Laboratory, Basic Sciences Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, Concepción, Chile
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Batista CM, Mariano ED, Dale CS, Cristante AF, Britto LR, Otoch JP, Teixeira MJ, Morgalla M, Lepski G. Pain inhibition through transplantation of fetal neuronal progenitors into the injured spinal cord in rats. Neural Regen Res 2019; 14:2011-2019. [PMID: 31290460 PMCID: PMC6676883 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.259624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury (SCI) is a complex condition that responds poorly to usual treatments. Cell transplantation represents a promising therapy; nevertheless, the ideal cell type in terms of neurogenic potential and effectiveness against pain remains largely controversial. Here, we evaluated the ability of fetal neural stem cells (fNSC) to relieve chronic pain and, secondarily, their effects on motor recovery. Adult Wistar rats with traumatic SCI were treated, 10 days after injury, with intra-spinal injections of culture medium (sham) or fNSCs extracted from telencephalic vesicles (TV group) or the ventral medulla (VM group) of E/14 embryos. Sensory (von Frey filaments and hot plate) and motor (the Basso, Beattie, Bresnahan locomotor rating scale and inclined plane test) assessments were performed during 8 weeks. Thereafter, spinal cords were processed for immunofluorescence and transplanted cells were quantified by stereology. The results showed improvement of thermal hyperalgesia in the TV and VM groups at 4 and 5 weeks after transplantation, respectively. Moreover, mechanical allodynia improved in both the TV and VM groups at 8 weeks. No significant motor recovery was observed in the TV or VM groups compared with sham. Stereological analyses showed that ~70% of TV and VM cells differentiated into NeuN+ neurons, with a high proportion of enkephalinergic and GABAergic cells in the TV group and enkephalinergic and serotoninergic cells in the VM group. Our study suggests that neuronal precursors from TV and VM, once implanted into the injured spinal cord, maturate into different neuronal subtypes, mainly GABAergic, serotoninergic, and enkephalinergic, and all subtypes alleviate pain, despite no significant motor recovery. The study was approved by the Animal Ethics Committee of the Medical School of the University of São Paulo (protocol number 033/14) on March 4, 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chary M Batista
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eric D Mariano
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Camila S Dale
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alexandre F Cristante
- Department of Orthopedic and Traumatology, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz R Britto
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jose P Otoch
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Manoel J Teixeira
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Matthias Morgalla
- Department of Neurosurgery, Eberhard-Karls University, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Guilherme Lepski
- Department of Neurosurgery, Eberhard-Karls University, Tuebingen, Germany; Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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9
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Morelli A, Sarchielli E, Guarnieri G, Coppi E, Pantano D, Comeglio P, Nardiello P, Pugliese AM, Ballerini L, Matucci R, Ambrosini S, Castronovo G, Valente R, Mazzanti B, Bucciantini S, Maggi M, Casamenti F, Gallina P, Vannelli GB. Young Human Cholinergic Neurons Respond to Physiological Regulators and Improve Cognitive Symptoms in an Animal Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:339. [PMID: 29163051 PMCID: PMC5666298 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The degeneration of cholinergic neurons of the nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM) in the basal forebrain (BF) is associated to the cognitive decline of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. To date no resolutive therapies exist. Cell-based replacement therapy is a strategy currently under consideration, although the mechanisms underlying the generation of stem cell-derived NBM cholinergic neurons able of functional integration remain to be clarified. Since fetal brain is an optimal source of neuronal cells committed towards a specific phenotype, this study is aimed at isolating cholinergic neurons from the human fetal NBM (hfNBMs) in order to study their phenotypic, maturational and functional properties. Extensive characterization confirmed the cholinergic identity of hfNBMs, including positivity for specific markers (such as choline acetyltransferase) and acetylcholine (Ach) release. Electrophysiological measurements provided the functional validation of hfNBM cells, which exhibited the activation of peculiar sodium (INa) and potassium (IK) currents, as well as the presence of functional cholinergic receptors. Accordingly, hfNBMs express both nicotinic and muscarinic receptors, which were activated by Ach. The hfNBMs cholinergic phenotype was regulated by the nerve growth factor (NGF), through the activation of the high-affinity NGF receptor TrkA, as well as by 17-β-estradiol through a peculiar recruitment of its own receptors. When intravenously administered in NBM-lesioned rats, hfNBMs determined a significant improvement in memory functions. Histological examination of brain sections showed that hfNBMs (labeled with PKH26 fluorescent dye prior to administration) reached the damaged brain areas. The study provides a useful model to study the ontogenetic mechanisms regulating the development and maintenance of the human brain cholinergic system and to assess new lines of research, including disease modeling, drug discovery and cell-based therapy for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Morelli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Erica Sarchielli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Guarnieri
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Coppi
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Daniela Pantano
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Paolo Comeglio
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pamela Nardiello
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Anna M Pugliese
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Lara Ballerini
- Cell Therapy and Transfusion Medicine Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Rosanna Matucci
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Stefano Ambrosini
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Castronovo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", Section of Clinical Physiopathology, Florence, Italy
| | - Rosa Valente
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Benedetta Mazzanti
- Cell Therapy and Transfusion Medicine Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Mario Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Fiorella Casamenti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pasquale Gallina
- Neurosurgery School of Tuscany, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gabriella B Vannelli
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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10
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Halliwell RF. Electrophysiological properties of neurons derived from human stem cells and iNeurons in vitro. Neurochem Int 2016; 106:37-47. [PMID: 27742467 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2016.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Functional studies of neurons have traditionally used nervous system tissues from a variety of non-human vertebrate and invertebrate species, even when the focus of much of this research has been directed at understanding human brain function. Over the last decade, the identification and isolation of human stem cells from embryonic, tissue (or adult) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) has revolutionized the availability of human neurons for experimental studies in vitro. In addition, the direct conversion of terminally differentiated fibroblasts into Induced neurons (iN) has generated great excitement because of the likely value of such human stem cell derived neurons (hSCNs) and iN cells in drug discovery, neuropharmacology, neurotoxicology and regenerative medicine. This review addresses the current state of our knowledge of functional receptors and ion channels expressed in neurons derived from human stem cells and iNeurons and identifies gaps and questions that might be investigated in future studies; it focusses almost exclusively on what is known about the electrophysiological properties of neurons derived from human stem cells and iN cells in vitro with an emphasis on voltage and ligand gated ion channels, since these mediate synaptic signalling in the nervous system and they are at the heart of neuropharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert F Halliwell
- Schools of Pharmacy & Dentistry, University of the Pacific, 751 Brookside Road, Stockton, CA, USA.
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11
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Antonov SA, Novosadova EV, Arsenyeva EL, Grefenstein MA, Zykova AA, Kobylyansky AG, Manuilova ES, Grivennikov IA, Illarioshkin SN, Myasoedov NF. Investigation of the effects of GABA receptor agonists in the differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells into dopaminergic neurons. DOKLADY BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES : PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE USSR, BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES SECTIONS 2016; 470:244-246. [PMID: 27822752 DOI: 10.1134/s0012496616050045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The influence of GABA receptor agonists on the terminal differentiation in vitro of dopaminergic (DA) neurons derived from IPS cells was investigated. GABA-A agonist muscimol induced transient elevation of intracellular Ca2+ level ([Ca2+] i ) in the investigated cells at days 5 to 21 of differentiation. Differentiation of cells in the presence of muscimol reduced tyrosine hydroxylase expression. Thus, the presence of active GABA-A receptors, associated with phenotype determination via Ca2+-signalling was demonstrated in differentiating human DA neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Antonov
- Instiute of molecular genetics of Russian Academy of sciences, Moscow, Russia.
| | - E V Novosadova
- Instiute of molecular genetics of Russian Academy of sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - E L Arsenyeva
- Instiute of molecular genetics of Russian Academy of sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - M A Grefenstein
- Instiute of molecular genetics of Russian Academy of sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - A A Zykova
- Instiute of molecular genetics of Russian Academy of sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - A G Kobylyansky
- Instiute of molecular genetics of Russian Academy of sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - E S Manuilova
- Instiute of molecular genetics of Russian Academy of sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - I A Grivennikov
- Instiute of molecular genetics of Russian Academy of sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - N F Myasoedov
- Instiute of molecular genetics of Russian Academy of sciences, Moscow, Russia
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12
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Advancing the understanding of autism disease mechanisms through genetics. Nat Med 2016; 22:345-61. [PMID: 27050589 DOI: 10.1038/nm.4071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 513] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 02/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Progress in understanding the genetic etiology of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has fueled remarkable advances in our understanding of its potential neurobiological mechanisms. Yet, at the same time, these findings highlight extraordinary causal diversity and complexity at many levels ranging from molecules to circuits and emphasize the gaps in our current knowledge. Here we review current understanding of the genetic architecture of ASD and integrate genetic evidence, neuropathology and studies in model systems with how they inform mechanistic models of ASD pathophysiology. Despite the challenges, these advances provide a solid foundation for the development of rational, targeted molecular therapies.
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13
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Sequential regulatory loops as key gatekeepers for neuronal reprogramming in human cells. Nat Neurosci 2016; 19:807-15. [PMID: 27110916 PMCID: PMC4882254 DOI: 10.1038/nn.4297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Direct conversion of somatic cells into neurons holds great promise for regenerative medicine. However, as neuronal conversion is relatively inefficient on human cells compared to mouse cells, it has been unclear what might be key barriers to reprogramming in human cells. We recently elucidated an RNA program mediated by the polypyrimidine tract binding protein PTB to convert mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) into functional neurons. On human adult fibroblasts (HAFs), however, we unexpectedly find that invoke of the documented PTB-REST-miR-124 loop only generates immature neurons. We now report that the functionality requires sequential inactivation of PTB and the PTB paralog nPTB in HAFs. Inactivation of nPTB triggers another self-enforcing loop essential for neuronal maturation, which comprises nPTB, the transcription factor BRN2, and miR-9. These findings suggest two separate gatekeepers to control neuronal conversion and maturation and consecutively overcoming these gatekeepers enables deterministic reprogramming of HAFs into functional neurons.
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14
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Ma Q, Chen C, Deng P, Zhu G, Lin M, Zhang L, Xu S, He M, Lu Y, Duan W, Pi H, Cao Z, Pei L, Li M, Liu C, Zhang Y, Zhong M, Zhou Z, Yu Z. Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields Promote In Vitro Neuronal Differentiation and Neurite Outgrowth of Embryonic Neural Stem Cells via Up-Regulating TRPC1. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0150923. [PMID: 26950212 PMCID: PMC4780708 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0150923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs) can enhance hippocampal neurogenesis in adult mice. However, little is focused on the effects of ELF-EMFs on embryonic neurogenesis. Here, we studied the potential effects of ELF-EMFs on embryonic neural stem cells (eNSCs). We exposed eNSCs to ELF-EMF (50 Hz, 1 mT) for 1, 2, and 3 days with 4 hours per day. We found that eNSC proliferation and maintenance were significantly enhanced after ELF-EMF exposure in proliferation medium. ELF-EMF exposure increased the ratio of differentiated neurons and promoted the neurite outgrowth of eNSC-derived neurons without influencing astrocyes differentiation and the cell apoptosis. In addition, the expression of the proneural genes, NeuroD and Ngn1, which are crucial for neuronal differentiation and neurite outgrowth, was increased after ELF-EMF exposure. Moreover, the expression of transient receptor potential canonical 1 (TRPC1) was significantly up-regulated accompanied by increased the peak amplitude of intracellular calcium level induced by ELF-EMF. Furthermore, silencing TRPC1 expression eliminated the up-regulation of the proneural genes and the promotion of neuronal differentiation and neurite outgrowth induced by ELF-EMF. These results suggest that ELF-EMF exposure promotes the neuronal differentiation and neurite outgrowth of eNSCs via up-regulation the expression of TRPC1 and proneural genes (NeuroD and Ngn1). These findings also provide new insights in understanding the effects of ELF-EMF exposure on embryonic brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinlong Ma
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chunhai Chen
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Electromagnetic Radiation Protection, Ministry of Education of China, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ping Deng
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Gang Zhu
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Min Lin
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Electromagnetic Radiation Protection, Ministry of Education of China, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shangcheng Xu
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Electromagnetic Radiation Protection, Ministry of Education of China, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Mindi He
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Electromagnetic Radiation Protection, Ministry of Education of China, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yonghui Lu
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Electromagnetic Radiation Protection, Ministry of Education of China, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Weixia Duan
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Huifeng Pi
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhengwang Cao
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Liping Pei
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Electromagnetic Radiation Protection, Ministry of Education of China, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chuan Liu
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yanwen Zhang
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Electromagnetic Radiation Protection, Ministry of Education of China, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Min Zhong
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Electromagnetic Radiation Protection, Ministry of Education of China, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhou Zhou
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Electromagnetic Radiation Protection, Ministry of Education of China, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- * E-mail: (ZY); (ZZ)
| | - Zhengping Yu
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Electromagnetic Radiation Protection, Ministry of Education of China, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- * E-mail: (ZY); (ZZ)
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15
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Rashid MA, Kim HY. N-Docosahexaenoylethanolamine ameliorates ethanol-induced impairment of neural stem cell neurogenic differentiation. Neuropharmacology 2015; 102:174-85. [PMID: 26586023 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2015.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Revised: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies demonstrated that prenatal exposure to ethanol interferes with embryonic and fetal development, and causes abnormal neurodevelopment. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid highly enriched in the brain, was shown to be essential for proper brain development and function. Recently, we found that N-docosahexenoyethanolamine (synaptamide), an endogenous metabolite of DHA, is a potent PKA-dependent neurogenic factor for neural stem cell (NSC) differentiation. In this study, we demonstrate that ethanol at pharmacologically relevant concentrations downregulates cAMP signaling in NSC and impairs neurogenic differentiation. In contrast, synaptamide reverses ethanol-impaired NSC neurogenic differentiation through counter-acting on the cAMP production system. NSC exposure to ethanol (25-50 mM) for 4 days dose-dependently decreased the number of Tuj-1 positive neurons and PKA/CREB phosphorylation with a concomitant reduction of cellular cAMP. Ethanol-induced cAMP reduction was accompanied by the inhibition of G-protein activation and expression of adenylyl cyclase (AC) 7 and AC8, as well as PDE4 upregulation. In contrast to ethanol, synaptamide increased cAMP production, GTPγS binding, and expression of AC7 and AC8 isoforms in a cAMP-dependent manner, offsetting the ethanol-induced impairment in neurogenic differentiation. These results indicate that synaptamide can reduce ethanol-induced impairment of neuronal differentiation by counter-affecting shared targets in G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR)/cAMP signaling. The synaptamide-mediated mechanism observed in this study may offer a possible avenue for ameliorating the adverse impact of fetal alcohol exposure on neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Abdur Rashid
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, DICBR, NIAAA, NIH, 5625 Fishers Lane, Bethesda, MD 20892-9410, USA
| | - Hee-Yong Kim
- Laboratory of Molecular Signaling, DICBR, NIAAA, NIH, 5625 Fishers Lane, Bethesda, MD 20892-9410, USA.
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16
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Batista CEM, Mariano ED, Marie SKN, Teixeira MJ, Morgalla M, Tatagiba M, Li J, Lepski G. Stem cells in neurology--current perspectives. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2014; 72:457-65. [PMID: 24964114 DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x20140045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 04/17/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Central nervous system (CNS) restoration is an important clinical challenge and stem cell transplantation has been considered a promising therapeutic option for many neurological diseases. OBJECTIVE The present review aims to briefly describe stem cell biology, as well as to outline the clinical application of stem cells in the treatment of diseases of the CNS. METHOD Literature review of animal and human clinical experimental trials, using the following key words: "stem cell", "neurogenesis", "Parkinson", "Huntington", "amyotrophic lateral sclerosis", "traumatic brain injury", "spinal cord injury", "ischemic stroke", and "demyelinating diseases". CONCLUSION Major recent advances in stem cell research have brought us several steps closer to their effective clinical application, which aims to develop efficient ways of regenerating the damaged CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eric Domingos Mariano
- Departamento de Neurologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Manoel Jacobsen Teixeira
- Departamento de Neurologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Matthias Morgalla
- Department of Neurosurgery, Eberhard-Karls University, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Marcos Tatagiba
- Department of Neurosurgery, Eberhard-Karls University, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Eberhard-Karls University, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Guilherme Lepski
- Departamento de Neurologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
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17
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Böhm MRR, Prokosch V, Brückner M, Pfrommer S, Melkonyan H, Thanos S. βB2-Crystallin Promotes Axonal Regeneration in the Injured Optic Nerve in Adult Rats. Cell Transplant 2014; 24:1829-44. [PMID: 25299378 DOI: 10.3727/096368914x684583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to further scrutinize the potential of βB2-crystallin in supporting regeneration of injured retinal ganglion cell axons both in vitro and in vivo. Retinal explants obtained from animals after treatment either with lens injury (LI) alone or with combined LI 5 days or 3 days before or simultaneously with an optic nerve crush (ONC) were cultured for 96 h under regenerative conditions, and the regenerating axons were quantified and compared with untreated controls. These measurements were then repeated with LI replaced by intravitreal injections of γ-crystallin and β-crystallin at 5 days before ONC. Finally, βB2-crystallin-overexpressing transfected neural progenitor cells (βB2-crystallin-NPCs) in the eye were studied after crushing the optic nerve in vivo. Regeneration was monitored with the aid of immunoblotting of the retina and optic nerve both distal and proximal to the lesion site, and this was compared with controls that received injections of phosphate buffer only. LI performed 5 days or 3 days before ONC significantly promoted axonal outgrowth in vitro (p < 0.001), while LI performed alone before explantation did not. Intravitreal injections of β-crystallin and γ-crystallin mimicked the effects of LI and significantly increased axonal regeneration in culture at the same time intervals (p < 0.001). Western blot analysis revealed that crystallins were present in the proximal optic nerve stump at the lesion site in ONC, but were neither expressed in the undamaged distal optic nerve nor in uninjured tissue. βB2-crystallin-NPCs supported the regeneration of cut optic nerve axons within the distal optic nerve stump in vivo. The reported data suggest that βB2-crystallin-producing "cell factories" could be used to provide novel therapeutic drugs for central nervous system injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R R Böhm
- Institute for Experimental Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Münster, Germany
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18
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Lepski G, Jannes CE, Nikkhah G, Bischofberger J. cAMP promotes the differentiation of neural progenitor cells in vitro via modulation of voltage-gated calcium channels. Front Cell Neurosci 2013; 7:155. [PMID: 24065885 PMCID: PMC3777016 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2013.00155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2013] [Accepted: 08/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms underlying the differentiation of neural progenitor cells (NPCs) remain poorly understood. In this study we investigated the role of Ca2+ and cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate) in the differentiation of NPCs extracted from the subventricular zone of E14.5 rat embryos. Patch clamp recordings revealed that increasing cAMP-signaling with Forskolin or IBMX (3-isobutyl-1-methylxantine) significantly facilitated neuronal functional maturation. A continuous application of IBMX to the differentiation medium substantially increased the functional expression of voltage-gated Na+ and K+ channels, as well as neuronal firing frequency. Furthermore, we observed an increase in the frequency of spontaneous synaptic currents and in the amplitude of evoked glutamatergic and GABAergic synaptic currents. The most prominent acute effect of applying IBMX was an increase in L-type Ca2+currents. Conversely, blocking L-type channels strongly inhibited dendritic outgrowth and synapse formation even in the presence of IBMX, indicating that voltage-gated Ca2+ influx plays a major role in neuronal differentiation. Finally, we found that nifedipine completely blocks IBMX-induced CREB phosphorylation (cAMP-response-element-binding protein), indicating that the activity of this important transcription factor equally depends on both enhanced cAMP and voltage-gated Ca2+-signaling. Taken together, these data indicate that the up-regulation of voltage-gated L-type Ca2+-channels and early electrical excitability are critical steps in the cAMP-dependent differentiation of SVZ-derived NPCs into functional neurons. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of the acute effects of cAMP on voltage-gated Ca+2channels in NPC-derived developing neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Lepski
- Department of Functional and Stereotactic Neurosurgery, University Albert-Ludwig Freiburg, Germany ; Department of Neurosurgery, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Germany
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19
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Ramos-Moreno T, Lendínez JG, Pino-Barrio MJ, Del Arco A, Martínez-Serrano A. Clonal human fetal ventral mesencephalic dopaminergic neuron precursors for cell therapy research. PLoS One 2012; 7:e52714. [PMID: 23300748 PMCID: PMC3534109 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0052714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2012] [Accepted: 11/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
A major challenge for further development of drug screening procedures, cell replacement therapies and developmental studies is the identification of expandable human stem cells able to generate the cell types needed. We have previously reported the generation of an immortalized polyclonal neural stem cell (NSC) line derived from the human fetal ventral mesencephalon (hVM1). This line has been biochemically, genetically, immunocytochemically and electrophysiologically characterized to document its usefulness as a model system for the generation of A9 dopaminergic neurons (DAn). Long-term in vivo transplantation studies in parkinsonian rats showed that the grafts do not mature evenly. We reasoned that diverse clones in the hVM1 line might have different abilities to differentiate. In the present study, we have analyzed 9 hVM1 clones selected on the basis of their TH generation potential and, based on the number of v-myc copies, v-myc down-regulation after in vitro differentiation, in vivo cell cycle exit, TH+ neuron generation and expression of a neuronal mature marker (hNSE), we selected two clones for further in vivo PD cell replacement studies. The conclusion is that homogeneity and clonality of characterized NSCs allow transplantation of cells with controlled properties, which should help in the design of long-term in vivo experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Ramos-Moreno
- Department of Molecular Biology-U.A.M. and Center of Molecular Biology "Severo Ochoa"-U.A.M.-C.S.I.C. Nicolás Cabrera, 1 Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Campus Cantoblanco, Madrid, Spain.
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20
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Seiz EG, Ramos-Gómez M, Courtois ET, Tønnesen J, Kokaia M, Liste Noya I, Martínez-Serrano A. Human midbrain precursors activate the expected developmental genetic program and differentiate long-term to functional A9 dopamine neurons in vitro. Enhancement by Bcl-X(L). Exp Cell Res 2012; 318:2446-59. [PMID: 22884477 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2012.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2012] [Revised: 07/12/2012] [Accepted: 07/24/2012] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the molecular programs of the generation of human dopaminergic neurons (DAn) from their ventral mesencephalic (VM) precursors is of key importance for basic studies, progress in cell therapy, drug screening and pharmacology in the context of Parkinson's disease. The nature of human DAn precursors in vitro is poorly understood, their properties unstable, and their availability highly limited. Here we present positive evidence that human VM precursors retaining their genuine properties and long-term capacity to generate A9 type Substantia nigra human DAn (hVM1 model cell line) can be propagated in culture. During a one month differentiation, these cells activate all key genes needed to progress from pro-neural and pro-dopaminergic precursors to mature and functional DAn. For the first time, we demonstrate that gene cascades are correctly activated during differentiation, resulting in the generation of mature DAn. These DAn have morphological and functional properties undistinguishable from those generated by VM primary neuronal cultures. In addition, we have found that the forced expression of Bcl-X(L) induces an increase in the expression of key developmental genes (MSX1, NGN2), maintenance of PITX3 expression temporal profile, and also enhances genes involved in DAn long-term function, maintenance and survival (EN1, LMX1B, NURR1 and PITX3). As a result, Bcl-X(L) anticipates and enhances DAn generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma G Seiz
- Departmento de Biología Molecular and Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid-C.S.I.C, Cantoblanco, 28049-Madrid, Spain.
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21
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Lepski G. What do we know about the neurogenic potential of different stem cell types? ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2012; 70:540-6. [DOI: 10.1590/s0004-282x2012000700013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2012] [Accepted: 03/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Cell therapies, based on transplantation of immature cells, are being considered as a promising tool in the treatment of neurological disorders. Many efforts are being concentrated on the development of safe and effective stem cell lines. Nevertheless, the neurogenic potential of some cell lines, i.e., the ability to generate mature neurons either in vitro or in vivo, is largely unknown. Recent evidence indicate that this potential might be distinct among different cell lines, therefore limiting their broad use as replacement cells in the central nervous system. Here, we have reviewed the latest advancements regarding the electrophysiological maturation of stem cells, focusing our attention on fetal-derived-, embryonic-, and induced pluripotent stem cells. In summary, a large body of evidence supports the biological safety, high neurogenic potential, and in some diseases probable clinical efficiency related to fetal-derived cells. By contrast, reliable data regarding embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells are still missing.
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Small molecules greatly improve conversion of human-induced pluripotent stem cells to the neuronal lineage. Stem Cells Int 2012; 2012:140427. [PMID: 22567022 PMCID: PMC3339118 DOI: 10.1155/2012/140427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2011] [Accepted: 01/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Efficient in vitro differentiation into specific cell types is more important than ever after the breakthrough in nuclear reprogramming of somatic cells and its potential for disease modeling and drug screening.
Key success factors for neuronal differentiation are the yield of desired neuronal marker expression, reproducibility, length, and cost. Three main neuronal differentiation approaches are stromal-induced neuronal differentiation, embryoid body (EB) differentiation, and direct neuronal differentiation. Here, we describe our neurodifferentiation protocol using small molecules that very efficiently promote neural induction in a 5-stage EB protocol from six induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) lines from patients with Parkinson's disease and controls. This protocol generates neural precursors using Dorsomorphin and SB431542 and further maturation into dopaminergic neurons by replacing sonic hedgehog with purmorphamine or smoothened agonist. The advantage of this approach is that all patient-specific iPSC lines tested in this study were successfully and consistently coaxed into the neural lineage.
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23
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Adult neural progenitor cells reactivate superbursting in mature neural networks. Exp Neurol 2011; 234:20-30. [PMID: 22198136 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2011.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2011] [Revised: 11/30/2011] [Accepted: 12/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Behavioral recovery in animal models of human CNS syndromes suggests that transplanted stem cell derivatives can augment damaged neural networks but the mechanisms behind potentiated recovery remain elusive. Here we use microelectrode array (MEA) technology to document neural activity and network integration as rat primary neurons and rat hippocampal neural progenitor cells (NPCs) differentiate and mature. The natural transition from neuroblast to functional excitatory neuron consists of intermediate phases of differentiation characterized by coupled activity. High-frequency network-wide bursting or "superbursting" is a hallmark of early plasticity that is ultimately refined into mature stable neural network activity. Microelectrode array (MEA)-plated neurons transition through this stage of coupled superbursting before establishing mature neuronal phenotypes in vitro. When plated alone, adult rat hippocampal NPC-derived neurons fail to establish the synchronized bursting activity that neurons in primary and embryonic stem cell-derived cultures readily form. However, adult rat hippocampal NPCs evoke re-emergent superbursting in electrophysiologically mature rat primary neural cultures. Developmental superbursting is thought to accompany transient states of heightened plasticity both in culture preparations and across brain regions. Future work exploring whether NPCs can re-stimulate developmental states in injury models would be an interesting test of their regenerative potential.
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