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Lagarde S, Modolo J, Yochum M, Carvallo A, Ballabeni A, Scavarda D, Carron R, Villeneuve N, Bartolomei F, Wendling F. Modification of brain conductivity in human focal epilepsy: A model-based estimation from stereoelectroencephalography. Epilepsia 2024; 65:1744-1755. [PMID: 38491955 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We have developed a novel method for estimating brain tissue electrical conductivity using low-intensity pulse stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) stimulation coupled with biophysical modeling. We evaluated the hypothesis that brain conductivity is correlated with the degree of epileptogenicity in patients with drug-resistant focal epilepsy. METHODS We used bipolar low-intensity biphasic pulse stimulation (.2 mA) followed by a postprocessing pipeline for estimating brain conductivity. This processing is based on biophysical modeling of the electrical potential induced in brain tissue between the stimulated contacts in response to pulse stimulation. We estimated the degree of epileptogenicity using a semi-automatic method quantifying the dynamic of fast discharge at seizure onset: the epileptogenicity index (EI). We also investigated how the location of stimulation within specific anatomical brain regions or within lesional tissue impacts brain conductivity. RESULTS We performed 1034 stimulations of 511 bipolar channels in 16 patients. We found that brain conductivity was lower in the epileptogenic zone (EZ; unpaired median difference = .064, p < .001) and inversely correlated with the epileptogenic index value (p < .001, Spearman rho = -.32). Conductivity values were also influenced by anatomical site, location within lesion, and delay between SEEG electrode implantation and stimulation, and had significant interpatient variability. Mixed model multivariate analysis showed that conductivity is significantly associated with EI (F = 13.45, p < .001), anatomical regions (F = 5.586, p < .001), delay since implantation (F = 14.71, p = .003), and age at SEEG (F = 6.591, p = .027), but not with the type of lesion (F = .372, p = .773) or the delay since last seizure (F = 1.592, p = .235). SIGNIFICANCE We provide a novel model-based method for estimating brain conductivity from SEEG low-intensity pulse stimulations. The brain tissue conductivity is lower in EZ as compared to non-EZ. Conductivity also varies significantly across anatomical brain regions. Involved pathophysiological processes may include changes in the extracellular space (especially volume or tortuosity) in epileptic tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanislas Lagarde
- Epileptology and Cerebral Rhythmology Department (member of the ERN EpiCARE Network), APHM, Timone Hospital, Marseille, France
- INS, Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Aix Marseille University, INSERM, Marseille, France
- University Hospitals (HUG) and University of Geneva (UNIGE), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Julien Modolo
- LTSI - U1099, University of Rennes, INSERM, Rennes, France
| | - Maxime Yochum
- LTSI - U1099, University of Rennes, INSERM, Rennes, France
| | | | - Alice Ballabeni
- Epileptology and Cerebral Rhythmology Department (member of the ERN EpiCARE Network), APHM, Timone Hospital, Marseille, France
- University of Modena and Reggio-Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Didier Scavarda
- INS, Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Aix Marseille University, INSERM, Marseille, France
- Pediatric Neurosurgery Department, APHM, Timone Hospital, Marseille, France
| | - Romain Carron
- INS, Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Aix Marseille University, INSERM, Marseille, France
- Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery Department, APHM, Timone Hospital, Marseille, France
| | | | - Fabrice Bartolomei
- Epileptology and Cerebral Rhythmology Department (member of the ERN EpiCARE Network), APHM, Timone Hospital, Marseille, France
- INS, Institut de Neurosciences des Systèmes, Aix Marseille University, INSERM, Marseille, France
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Szabo E, Ashina S, Melo-Carrillo A, Bolo NR, Borsook D, Burstein R. Peripherally acting anti-CGRP monoclonal antibodies alter cortical gray matter thickness in migraine patients: A prospective cohort study. Neuroimage Clin 2023; 40:103531. [PMID: 37866119 PMCID: PMC10623369 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2023.103531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Migraine is underpinned by central nervous system neuroplastic alterations thought to be caused by the repetitive peripheral afferent barrage the brain receives during the headache phase (cortical hyperexcitability). Calcitonin gene-related peptide monoclonal antibodies (anti-CGRP-mAbs) are highly effective migraine preventative treatments. Their ability to alter brain morphometry in treatment-responders vs. non-responders is not well understood. Our aim was to determine the effects of the anti-CGRP-mAb galcanezumab on cortical thickness after 3-month treatment of patients with high-frequency episodic or chronic migraine. High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging was performed pre- and post-treatment in 36 migraine patients. In this group, 19 patients were classified responders (≥50 % reduction in monthly migraine days) and 17 were considered non-responders (<50 % reduction in monthly migraine days). Following cross-sectional processing to analyze the baseline differences in cortical thickness, two-stage longitudinal processing and symmetrized percent change were conducted to investigate treatment-related brain changes. At baseline, no significant differences were found between the responders and non-responders. After 3-month treatment, decreased cortical thickness (compared to baseline) was observed in the responders in regions of the somatosensory cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, medial frontal cortex, superior frontal gyrus, and supramarginal gyrus. Non-responders demonstrated decreased cortical thickness in the left dorsomedial cortex and superior frontal gyrus. We interpret the cortical thinning seen in the responder group as suggesting that reduction in head pain could lead to changes in neural swelling and dendritic complexity and that such changes reflect the recovery process from maladaptive neural activity. This conclusion is further supported by our recent study showing that 3 months after treatment initiation, the incidence of premonitory symptoms and prodromes that are followed by headache decreases but not the incidence of the premonitory symptoms or prodromes themselves (that is, cortical thinning relates to reductions in the nociceptive signals in the responders). We speculate that a much longer recovery period is required to allow the brain to return to a more 'normal' functioning state whereby prodromes and premonitory symptoms no longer occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edina Szabo
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Department of Anaesthesiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Sait Ashina
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Department of Anaesthesiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Comprehensive Headache Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Agustin Melo-Carrillo
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Department of Anaesthesiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Nicolas R Bolo
- Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - David Borsook
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Rami Burstein
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Department of Anaesthesiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Comprehensive Headache Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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Çarçak N, Onat F, Sitnikova E. Astrocytes as a target for therapeutic strategies in epilepsy: current insights. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1183775. [PMID: 37583518 PMCID: PMC10423940 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1183775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are specialized non-neuronal glial cells of the central nervous system, contributing to neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission (gliotransmission). Astrocytes play a key roles in epileptogenesis and seizure generation. Epilepsy, as a chronic disorder characterized by neuronal hyperexcitation and hypersynchronization, is accompanied by substantial disturbances of glial cells and impairment of astrocytic functions and neuronal signaling. Anti-seizure drugs that provide symptomatic control of seizures primarily target neural activity. In epileptic patients with inadequate control of seizures with available anti-seizure drugs, novel therapeutic candidates are needed. These candidates should treat epilepsy with anti-epileptogenic and disease-modifying effects. Evidence from human and animal studies shows that astrocytes have value for developing new anti-seizure and anti-epileptogenic drugs. In this review, we present the key functions of astrocytes contributing to neuronal hyperexcitability and synaptic activity following an etiology-based approach. We analyze the role of astrocytes in both development (epileptogenesis) and generation of seizures (ictogenesis). Several promising new strategies that attempted to modify astroglial functions for treating epilepsy are being developed: (1) selective targeting of glia-related molecular mechanisms of glutamate transport; (2) modulation of tonic GABA release from astrocytes; (3) gliotransmission; (4) targeting the astrocytic Kir4.1-BDNF system; (5) astrocytic Na+/K+/ATPase activity; (6) targeting DNA hypo- or hypermethylation of candidate genes in astrocytes; (7) targeting astrocytic gap junction regulators; (8) targeting astrocytic adenosine kinase (the major adenosine-metabolizing enzyme); and (9) targeting microglia-astrocyte communication and inflammatory pathways. Novel disease-modifying therapeutic strategies have now been developed, such as astroglia-targeted gene therapy with a broad spectrum of genetic constructs to target astroglial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nihan Çarçak
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Filiz Onat
- Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Evgenia Sitnikova
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology of Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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Shiva S, Khanzadeh S, Rashidi F, Lucke-Wold B. Association of anticardiolipin antibodies with epilepsy in children. TRENDS IN IMMUNOTHERAPY 2023; 7:2021. [PMID: 37981986 PMCID: PMC10655207 DOI: 10.24294/ti.v7.i1.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the association of anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) with epilepsy development and characteristics in children. This prospective case-control study included 40 epileptic children and 40 sex- and age-matched controls. Epileptic children had higher levels of aCL compared to healthy controls (5.66 ± 5.41 versus 2.37 ± 2.28; p value = 0.001). The novel finding of elevated levels of aCL predicted response to IVIg therapy (p value = 0.009). Patients with normal EEG had lower levels of aCL compared to those with EEG abnormal findings (p value = 0.015). Patients with the combined type of epilepsy had statistically significant higher levels of aCL compared to other types (p value = 0.046). Also, aCL levels were correlated with seizure frequency (p value = 0.019). These results declare the possible involvement of such antibodies in the onset or pathogenesis of epilepsy. Screening for aCL may help in the timely diagnosis of epilepsy and initiation of appropriate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shadi Shiva
- Pediatric Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 51368, Iran
| | | | - Farzad Rashidi
- Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 51368, Iran
| | - Brandon Lucke-Wold
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
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Lawrence JM, Schardien K, Wigdahl B, Nonnemacher MR. Roles of neuropathology-associated reactive astrocytes: a systematic review. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2023; 11:42. [PMID: 36915214 PMCID: PMC10009953 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-023-01526-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 80.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
In the contexts of aging, injury, or neuroinflammation, activated microglia signaling with TNF-α, IL-1α, and C1q induces a neurotoxic astrocytic phenotype, classified as A1, A1-like, or neuroinflammatory reactive astrocytes. In contrast to typical astrocytes, which promote neuronal survival, support synapses, and maintain blood-brain barrier integrity, these reactive astrocytes downregulate supportive functions and begin to secrete neurotoxic factors, complement components like C3, and chemokines like CXCL10, which may facilitate recruitment of immune cells across the BBB into the CNS. The proportion of pro-inflammatory reactive astrocytes increases with age through associated microglia activation, and these pro-inflammatory reactive astrocytes are particularly abundant in neurodegenerative disorders. As the identification of astrocyte phenotypes progress, their molecular and cellular effects are characterized in a growing array of neuropathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill M Lawrence
- Molecular and Cell Biology and Genetics Graduate Program, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Molecular Virology and Translational Neuroscience, Institute for Molecular Medicine and Infectious Disease, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kayla Schardien
- Molecular and Cell Biology and Genetics Graduate Program, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Brian Wigdahl
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Molecular Virology and Translational Neuroscience, Institute for Molecular Medicine and Infectious Disease, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michael R Nonnemacher
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Center for Molecular Virology and Translational Neuroscience, Institute for Molecular Medicine and Infectious Disease, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Pawlik M, Czarnecka AM, Kołodziej M, Skowrońska K, Węgrzynowicz M, Podgajna M, Czuczwar SJ, Albrecht J. Attenuation of initial pilocarpine-induced electrographic seizures by methionine sulfoximine pretreatment tightly correlates with the reduction of extracellular taurine in the hippocampus. Epilepsia 2023; 64:1390-1402. [PMID: 36808593 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Initiation and development of early seizures by chemical stimuli is associated with brain cell swelling resulting in edema of seizure-vulnerable brain regions. We previously reported that pretreatment with a nonconvulsive dose of glutamine (Gln) synthetase inhibitor methionine sulfoximine (MSO) mitigates the intensity of initial pilocarpine (Pilo)-induced seizures in juvenile rats. We hypothesized that MSO exerts its protective effect by preventing the seizure-initiating and seizure-propagating increase of cell volume. Taurine (Tau) is an osmosensitive amino acid, whose release reflects increased cell volume. Therefore, we tested whether the poststimulus rise of amplitude of Pilo-induced electrographic seizures and their attenuation by MSO are correlated with the release of Tau from seizure-affected hippocampus. METHODS Lithium-pretreated animals were administered MSO (75 mg/kg ip) 2.5 h before the induction of convulsions by Pilo (40 mg/kg ip). Electroencephalographic (EEG) power was analyzed during 60 min post-Pilo, at 5-min intervals. Extracellular accumulation of Tau (eTau) served as a marker of cell swelling. eTau, extracellular Gln (eGln), and extracellular glutamate (eGlu) were assayed in the microdialysates of the ventral hippocampal CA1 region collected at 15-min intervals during the whole 3.5-h observation period. RESULTS The first EEG signal became apparent at ~10 min post-Pilo. The EEG amplitude across most frequency bands peaked at ~40 min post-Pilo, and showed strong (r ~ .72-.96) temporal correlation with eTau, but no correlation with eGln or eGlu. MSO pretreatment delayed the first EEG signal in Pilo-treated rats by ~10 min, and depressed the EEG amplitude across most frequency bands, to values that remained strongly correlated with eTau (r > .92) and moderately correlated (r ~ -.59) with eGln, but not with eGlu. SIGNIFICANCE Strong correlation between attenuation of Pilo-induced seizures and Tau release indicates that the beneficial effect of MSO is due to the prevention of cell volume increase concurrent with the onset of seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek Pawlik
- Department of Neurotoxicology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Maria Czarnecka
- Department of Neurotoxicology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Kołodziej
- Institute of Theory of Electrical Engineering, Measurement, and Information Systems, Warsaw University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Skowrońska
- Department of Neurotoxicology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Węgrzynowicz
- Laboratory of Molecular Basis of Neurodegeneration, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Martyna Podgajna
- Laboratory of Molecular Basis of Neurodegeneration, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Jan Albrecht
- Department of Neurotoxicology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
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Tønnesen J, Hrabĕtová S, Soria FN. Local diffusion in the extracellular space of the brain. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 177:105981. [PMID: 36581229 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The brain extracellular space (ECS) is a vast interstitial reticulum of extreme morphological complexity, composed of narrow gaps separated by local expansions, enabling interconnected highways between neural cells. Constituting on average 20% of brain volume, the ECS is key for intercellular communication, and understanding its diffusional properties is of paramount importance for understanding the brain. Within the ECS, neuroactive substances travel predominantly by diffusion, spreading through the interstitial fluid and the extracellular matrix scaffold after being focally released. The nanoscale dimensions of the ECS render it unresolvable by conventional live tissue compatible imaging methods, and historically diffusion of tracers has been used to indirectly infer its structure. Novel nanoscopic imaging techniques now show that the ECS is a highly dynamic compartment, and that diffusivity in the ECS is more heterogeneous than anticipated, with great variability across brain regions and physiological states. Diffusion is defined primarily by the local ECS geometry, and secondarily by the viscosity of the interstitial fluid, including the obstructive and binding properties of the extracellular matrix. ECS volume fraction and tortuosity both strongly determine diffusivity, and each can be independently regulated e.g. through alterations in glial morphology and the extracellular matrix composition. Here we aim to provide an overview of our current understanding of the ECS and its diffusional properties. We highlight emerging technological advances to respectively interrogate and model diffusion through the ECS, and point out how these may contribute in resolving the remaining enigmas of the ECS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Tønnesen
- Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Leioa, Spain; Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA
| | - Sabina Hrabĕtová
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York, Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA; The Robert F. Furchgott Center for Neural and Behavioral Science, State University of New York Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Federico N Soria
- Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Leioa, Spain; Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Spain; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Spain.
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Mulkey DK, Milla BM. Perspectives on the basis of seizure-induced respiratory dysfunction. Front Neural Circuits 2022; 16:1033756. [PMID: 36605420 PMCID: PMC9807672 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2022.1033756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is an umbrella term used to define a wide variety of seizure disorders and sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is the leading cause of death in epilepsy. Although some SUDEP risk factors have been identified, it remains largely unpredictable, and underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Most seizures start in the cortex, but the high mortality rate associated with certain types of epilepsy indicates brainstem involvement. Therefore, to help understand SUDEP we discuss mechanisms by which seizure activity propagates to the brainstem. Specifically, we highlight clinical and pre-clinical evidence suggesting how seizure activation of: (i) descending inhibitory drive or (ii) spreading depolarization might contribute to brainstem dysfunction. Furthermore, since epilepsy is a highly heterogenous disorder, we also considered factors expected to favor or oppose mechanisms of seizure propagation. We also consider whether epilepsy-associated genetic variants directly impact brainstem function. Because respiratory failure is a leading cause of SUDEP, our discussion of brainstem dysfunction focuses on respiratory control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel K. Mulkey
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
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Serpe C, Michelucci A, Monaco L, Rinaldi A, De Luca M, Familiari P, Relucenti M, Di Pietro E, Di Castro MA, D’Agnano I, Catacuzzeno L, Limatola C, Catalano M. Astrocytes-Derived Small Extracellular Vesicles Hinder Glioma Growth. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10112952. [PMID: 36428520 PMCID: PMC9688032 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10112952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
All cells are capable of secreting extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are not a means to eliminate unneeded cellular compounds but represent a process to exchange material (nucleic acids, lipids and proteins) between different cells. This also happens in the brain, where EVs permit the crosstalk between neuronal and non-neuronal cells, functional to homeostatic processes or cellular responses to pathological stimuli. In brain tumors, EVs are responsible for the bidirectional crosstalk between glioblastoma cells and healthy cells, and among them, astrocytes, that assume a pro-tumoral or antitumoral role depending on the stage of the tumor progression. In this work, we show that astrocyte-derived small EVs (sEVs) exert a defensive mechanism against tumor cell growth and invasion. The effect is mediated by astrocyte-derived EVs (ADEVs) through the transfer to tumor cells of factors that hinder glioma growth. We identified one of these factors, enriched in ADEVs, that is miR124. It reduced both the expression and function of the volume-regulated anion channel (VRAC), that, in turn, decreased the cell migration and invasion of murine glioma GL261 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmela Serpe
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Michelucci
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Lucia Monaco
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Rinaldi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Mariassunta De Luca
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Pietro Familiari
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Human Neurosciences, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Relucenti
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Erika Di Pietro
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Igea D’Agnano
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, CNR, 20054 Segrate, Italy
| | - Luigi Catacuzzeno
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Cristina Limatola
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (M.C.); Tel.: +39-06-49690243 (C.L.); +39-06-49910467 (M.C.)
| | - Myriam Catalano
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (M.C.); Tel.: +39-06-49690243 (C.L.); +39-06-49910467 (M.C.)
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Walch E, Fiacco TA. Honey, I shrunk the extracellular space: Measurements and mechanisms of astrocyte swelling. Glia 2022; 70:2013-2031. [PMID: 35635369 PMCID: PMC9474570 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Astrocyte volume fluctuation is a physiological phenomenon tied closely to the activation of neural circuits. Identification of underlying mechanisms has been challenging due in part to use of a wide range of experimental approaches that vary between research groups. Here, we first review the many methods that have been used to measure astrocyte volume changes directly or indirectly. While the field has recently shifted towards volume analysis using fluorescence microscopy to record cell volume changes directly, established metrics corresponding to extracellular space dynamics have also yielded valuable insights. We then turn to analysis of mechanisms of astrocyte swelling derived from many studies, with a focus on volume changes tied to increases in extracellular potassium concentration ([K+ ]o ). The diverse methods that have been utilized to generate the external [K+ ]o environment highlight multiple scenarios of astrocyte swelling mediated by different mechanisms. Classical potassium buffering theories are tempered by many recent studies that point to different swelling pathways optimized at particular [K+ ]o and that depend on local/transient versus more sustained increases in [K+ ]o .
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Walch
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of MedicineUniversity of California, RiversideRiversideCaliforniaUSA
| | - Todd A. Fiacco
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Systems BiologyUniversity of California, RiversideRiversideCaliforniaUSA
- Center for Glial‐Neuronal InteractionsUniversity of California, RiversideRiversideCaliforniaUSA
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Ochoa-de la Paz LD, Gulias-Cañizo R. Glia as a key factor in cell volume regulation processes of the central nervous system. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:967496. [PMID: 36090789 PMCID: PMC9453262 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.967496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain edema is a pathological condition with potentially fatal consequences, related to cerebral injuries such as ischemia, chronic renal failure, uremia, and diabetes, among others. Under these pathological states, the cell volume control processes are fully compromised, because brain cells are unable to regulate the movement of water, mainly regulated by osmotic gradients. The processes involved in cell volume regulation are homeostatic mechanisms that depend on the mobilization of osmolytes (ions, organic molecules, and polyols) in the necessary direction to counteract changes in osmolyte concentration in response to water movement. The expression and coordinated function of proteins related to the cell volume regulation process, such as water channels, ion channels, and other cotransport systems in the glial cells, and considering the glial cell proportion compared to neuronal cells, leads to consider the astroglial network the main regulatory unit for water homeostasis in the central nervous system (CNS). In the last decade, several studies highlighted the pivotal role of glia in the cell volume regulation process and water homeostasis in the brain, including the retina; any malfunction of this astroglial network generates a lack of the ability to regulate the osmotic changes and water movements and consequently exacerbates the pathological condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenin David Ochoa-de la Paz
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico
- Asociación para Evitar la Ceguera en México (APEC), Unidad de Investigación APEC-UNAM, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Lenin David Ochoa-de la Paz
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12
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Xu Y, Fan Q. Relationship between chronic hypoxia and seizure susceptibility. CNS Neurosci Ther 2022; 28:1689-1705. [PMID: 35983626 PMCID: PMC9532927 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hypobaric hypoxia in high‐altitude areas is closely related to the occurrence of many neurological diseases. Among these diseases, epilepsy is a common disease of the nervous system that is difficult to diagnose and treat, with a long treatment cycle. As of 2019, there were more than 70 million epilepsy patients worldwide, including 10 million in China. Studies have shown that chronic hypoxia promotes the occurrence and development of epilepsy, and elucidation of the relationship between chronic hypoxia and epilepsy is important for studying the pathogenesis of epilepsy and exploring the potential characteristics of epilepsy and new drug targets for epilepsy. In this article, we review the factors that may cause increased seizure susceptibility in chronic hypoxia and consider the potential relationship between chronic hypobaric hypoxia and seizure susceptibility in high‐altitude areas and prospects surrounding related research in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- YuanHang Xu
- Qinghai University Graduate School, Xining, China.,Department of Neurology, Qinghai Provincial People's Hospital Xining, Xining, China
| | - QingLi Fan
- Department of Neurology, Qinghai Provincial People's Hospital Xining, Xining, China
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13
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The Water Transport System in Astrocytes–Aquaporins. Cells 2022; 11:cells11162564. [PMID: 36010640 PMCID: PMC9406552 DOI: 10.3390/cells11162564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Highlights (AQPs) are transmembrane proteins responsible for fast water movement across cell membranes, including those of astrocytes. The expression and subcellular localization of AQPs in astrocytes are highly dynamic under physiological and pathological conditions. Besides their primary function in water homeostasis, AQPs participate in many ancillary functions including glutamate clearance in tripartite synapses and cell migration.
Abstract Astrocytes have distinctive morphological and functional characteristics, and are found throughout the central nervous system. Astrocytes are now known to be far more than just housekeeping cells in the brain. Their functions include contributing to the formation of the blood–brain barrier, physically and metabolically supporting and communicating with neurons, regulating the formation and functions of synapses, and maintaining water homeostasis and the microenvironment in the brain. Aquaporins (AQPs) are transmembrane proteins responsible for fast water movement across cell membranes. Various subtypes of AQPs (AQP1, AQP3, AQP4, AQP5, AQP8 and AQP9) have been reported to be expressed in astrocytes, and the expressions and subcellular localizations of AQPs in astrocytes are highly correlated with both their physiological and pathophysiological functions. This review describes and summarizes the recent advances in our understanding of astrocytes and AQPs in regard to controlling water homeostasis in the brain. Findings regarding the features of different AQP subtypes, such as their expression, subcellular localization, physiological functions, and the pathophysiological roles of astrocytes are presented, with brain edema and glioma serving as two representative AQP-associated pathological conditions. The aim is to provide a better insight into the elaborate “water distribution” system in cells, exemplified by astrocytes, under normal and pathological conditions.
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14
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Elsherbini DMA, Ghoneim FM, El-Mancy EM, Ebrahim HA, El-Sherbiny M, El-Shafey M, Al-Serwi RH, Elsherbiny NM. Astrocytes profiling in acute hepatic encephalopathy: Possible enrolling of glial fibrillary acidic protein, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, inwardly rectifying potassium channel (Kir 4.1) and aquaporin-4 in rat cerebral cortex. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:896172. [PMID: 36060277 PMCID: PMC9428715 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.896172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a neurological disarray manifested as a sequel to chronic and acute liver failure (ALF). A potentially fatal consequence of ALF is brain edema with concomitant astrocyte enlargement. This study aims to outline the role of astrocytes in acute HE and shed light on the most critical mechanisms driving this role. Rats were allocated into two groups. Group 1, the control group, received the vehicle. Group 2, the TAA group, received TAA (300 mg/kg) for 3 days. Serum AST, ALT, and ammonia were determined. Liver and cerebral cortical sections were processed for hematoxylin and eosin staining. Additionally, mRNA expression and immunohistochemical staining of cortical GFAP, TNFα, Kir4.1, and AQP4 were performed. Cortical sections from the TAA group demonstrated neuropil vacuolation and astrocytes enlargement with focal gliosis. GFAP, TNFα, and AQP4 revealed increased mRNA expression, positive immunoreactivity, and a positive correlation to brain water content. In contrast, Kir 4.1 showed decreased mRNA expression and immunoreactivity and a negative correlation to brain water content. In conclusion, our findings revealed altered levels of TNFα, Kir 4.1, GFAP, and AQP4 in HE-associated brain edema. A more significant dysregulation of Kir 4.1 and TNFα was observed compared to AQP4 and GFAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia Mahmoud Abdelmonem Elsherbini
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
- *Correspondence: Dalia Mahmoud Abdelmonem Elsherbini,
| | - Fatma M. Ghoneim
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Eman Mohammed El-Mancy
- Deanship of Common First Year, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Women for Arts, Science and Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hasnaa Ali Ebrahim
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mohamed El-Sherbiny
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Mohamed El-Sherbiny,
| | - Mohamed El-Shafey
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rasha Hamed Al-Serwi
- Department of Basic Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nehal M. Elsherbiny
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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15
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Szu JI, Binder DK. Mechanisms Underlying Aquaporin-4 Subcellular Mislocalization in Epilepsy. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:900588. [PMID: 35734218 PMCID: PMC9207308 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.900588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder characterized by unprovoked seizures. Mechanisms underlying seizure activity have been intensely investigated. Alterations in astrocytic channels and transporters have shown to be a critical player in seizure generation and epileptogenesis. One key protein involved in such processes is the astrocyte water channel aquaporin-4 (AQP4). Studies have revealed that perivascular AQP4 redistributes away from astrocyte endfeet and toward the neuropil in both clinical and preclinical studies. This subcellular mislocalization significantly impacts neuronal hyperexcitability and understanding how AQP4 becomes dysregulated in epilepsy is beginning to emerge. In this review, we evaluate the role of AQP4 dysregulation and mislocalization in epilepsy.
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16
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Shojai S, Haeri Rohani SA, Moosavi-Movahedi AA, Habibi-Rezaei M. Human serum albumin in neurodegeneration. Rev Neurosci 2022; 33:803-817. [PMID: 35363449 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2021-0165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Serum albumin (SA) exists in relatively high concentrations, in close contact with most cells. However, in the adult brain, except for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), SA concentration is relatively low. It is mainly produced in the liver to serve as the main protein of the blood plasma. In the plasma, it functions as a carrier, chaperon, antioxidant, source of amino acids, osmoregulator, etc. As a carrier, it facilitates the stable presence and transport of the hydrophobic and hydrophilic molecules, including free fatty acids, steroid hormones, medicines, and metal ions. As a chaperon, SA binds to and protects other proteins. As an antioxidant, thanks to a free sulfhydryl group (-SH), albumin is responsible for most antioxidant properties of plasma. These functions qualify SA as a major player in, and a mirror of, overall health status, aging, and neurodegeneration. The low concentration of SA is associated with cognitive deterioration in the elderly and negative prognosis in multiple sclerosis (MS) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). SA has been shown to be structurally modified in neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). During blood-brain barrier damage albumin enters the brain tissue and could trigger epilepsy and neurodegeneration. SA is able to bind to the precursor agent of the AD, amyloid-beta (Aβ), preventing its toxic effects in the periphery, and is being tested for treating this disease. SA therapy may also be effective in brain rejuvenation. In the current review, we will bring forward the prominent properties and roles of SA in neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajjad Shojai
- School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Mehran Habibi-Rezaei
- School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
- Nano-Biomedicine Center of Excellence, Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Research Center, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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17
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Wang Z, Li Y, Zeng Z, Guo S, Chen W, Luo Y. Leucine-rich repeat containing 8A contributes to the expansion of The potential role of leucine-rich repeat-containing protein 8A in central nervous system: current situation and prospect. Neuroscience 2022; 488:122-131. [PMID: 35276302 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cell swelling usually initiates the regulatory volume decrease (RVD) process mediated mainly by volume-regulated anion channels (VRACs), which are formed by multiple different leucine-rich repeat-containing protein 8 (LRRC8) family members. VRAC currents have been widely recorded in astrocytes, neurons and microglia in the brain, and VRACs have been suggested to be involved in the important pathogenesis of cell swelling-related central nervous system (CNS) diseases, such as ischemic stroke, epilepsy and epileptogenesis, glioblastoma (GBM), and so on. Recently, the increasing studies started to focus on LRRC8A (SWELL1), an obligatory subunit of VRAC indentified in 2014, which may be the key target to regulate the VRAC functions. After cerebral ischemia, the swollen astrocytes, neurons and microglia can activate LRRC8A-dependent VRACs, which may respectively promote the release of excitatory amino acids (EAA), interaction with ionotropic glutamate receptors, and regulating inflammation, suggesting the pleiotropic roles of LRRC8A in swollen brain cells. For the treatment of cell swelling-related CNS diseases, specific targeting LRRC8A may be a superior strategy to inhibit swollen-induced VRAC hyperactivity without blocking the normal VRAC function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Wang
- Department of Neurology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, China; Wuhan Institute for Neuroscience and Neuroengineering, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, China
| | - Yunhui Li
- National Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology & Institute of Immunology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Zhikun Zeng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, China
| | - Shuang Guo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, China
| | - Yi Luo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, China.
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18
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Myo-Inositol Limits Kainic Acid-Induced Epileptogenesis in Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031198. [PMID: 35163126 PMCID: PMC8835653 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a severe neurological disease characterized by spontaneous recurrent seizures (SRS). A complex pathophysiological process referred to as epileptogenesis transforms a normal brain into an epileptic one. Prevention of epileptogenesis is a subject of intensive research. Currently, there are no clinically approved drugs that can act as preventive medication. Our previous studies have revealed highly promising antiepileptogenic properties of a compound-myo-inositol (MI) and the present research broadens previous results and demonstrates the long-term disease-modifying effect of this drug, as well as the amelioration of cognitive comorbidities. For the first time, we show that long-term treatment with MI: (i) decreases the frequency and duration of electrographic SRS in the hippocampus; (ii) has an ameliorating effect on spatial learning and memory deficit associated with epileptogenesis, and (iii) attenuates cell loss in the hippocampus. MI treatment also alters the expression of the glial fibrillary acidic protein, LRRC8A subunit of volume-regulated anion channels, and protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type R, all expected to counteract the epileptogenesis. All these effects are still present even 4 weeks after MI treatment ceased. This suggests that MI may exert multiple actions on various epileptogenesis-associated changes in the brain and, therefore, could be considered as a candidate target for prevention of epileptogenesis.
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19
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Amro Z, Yool AJ, Collins-Praino LE. The potential role of glial cells in driving the prion-like transcellular propagation of tau in tauopathies. Brain Behav Immun Health 2021; 14:100242. [PMID: 34589757 PMCID: PMC8474563 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2021.100242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Dementia is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with tauopathies, a class of diseases defined by pathology associated with the microtubule-enriched protein, tau, as the major contributor. Although tauopathies, such as Alzheimer's disease and Frontotemporal dementia, are common amongst the ageing population, current effective treatment options are scarce, primarily due to the incomplete understanding of disease pathogenesis. The mechanisms via which aggregated forms of tau are able to propagate from one anatomical area to another to cause disease spread and progression is yet unknown. The prion-like hypothesis of tau propagation proposes that tau can propagate along neighbouring anatomical areas in a similar manner to prion proteins in prion diseases, such as Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease. This hypothesis has been supported by a plethora of studies that note the ability of tau to be actively secreted by neurons, propagated and internalised by neighbouring neuronal cells, causing disease spread. Surfacing research suggests a role of reactive astrocytes and microglia in early pre-clinical stages of tauopathy through their inflammatory actions. Furthermore, both glial types are able to internalise and secrete tau from the extracellular space, suggesting a potential role in tau propagation; although understanding the physiological mechanisms by which this can occur remains poorly understood. This review will discuss the current literature around the prion-like propagation of tau, with particular emphasis on glial-mediated neuroinflammation and the contribution it may play in this propagation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zein Amro
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia
| | - Andrea J Yool
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia
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20
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Potential of Multiscale Astrocyte Imaging for Revealing Mechanisms Underlying Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910312. [PMID: 34638653 PMCID: PMC8508625 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes provide trophic and metabolic support to neurons and modulate circuit formation during development. In addition, astrocytes help maintain neuronal homeostasis through neurovascular coupling, blood-brain barrier maintenance, clearance of metabolites and nonfunctional proteins via the glymphatic system, extracellular potassium buffering, and regulation of synaptic activity. Thus, astrocyte dysfunction may contribute to a myriad of neurological disorders. Indeed, astrocyte dysfunction during development has been implicated in Rett disease, Alexander's disease, epilepsy, and autism, among other disorders. Numerous disease model mice have been established to investigate these diseases, but important preclinical findings on etiology and pathophysiology have not translated into clinical interventions. A multidisciplinary approach is required to elucidate the mechanism of these diseases because astrocyte dysfunction can result in altered neuronal connectivity, morphology, and activity. Recent progress in neuroimaging techniques has enabled noninvasive investigations of brain structure and function at multiple spatiotemporal scales, and these technologies are expected to facilitate the translation of preclinical findings to clinical studies and ultimately to clinical trials. Here, we review recent progress on astrocyte contributions to neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders revealed using novel imaging techniques, from microscopy scale to mesoscopic scale.
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21
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Wilson CS, Dohare P, Orbeta S, Nalwalk JW, Huang Y, Ferland RJ, Sah R, Scimemi A, Mongin AA. Late adolescence mortality in mice with brain-specific deletion of the volume-regulated anion channel subunit LRRC8A. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21869. [PMID: 34469026 PMCID: PMC8639177 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002745r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The leucine-rich repeat-containing family 8 member A (LRRC8A) is an essential subunit of the volume-regulated anion channel (VRAC). VRAC is critical for cell volume control, but its broader physiological functions remain under investigation. Recent studies in the field indicate that Lrrc8a disruption in the brain astrocytes reduces neuronal excitability, impairs synaptic plasticity and memory, and protects against cerebral ischemia. In the present work, we generated brain-wide conditional LRRC8A knockout mice (LRRC8A bKO) using NestinCre -driven Lrrc8aflox/flox excision in neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendroglia. LRRC8A bKO animals were born close to the expected Mendelian ratio and developed without overt histological abnormalities, but, surprisingly, all died between 5 and 9 weeks of age with a seizure phenotype, which was confirmed by video and EEG recordings. Brain slice electrophysiology detected changes in the excitability of pyramidal cells and modified GABAergic inputs in the hippocampal CA1 region of LRRC8A bKO. LRRC8A-null hippocampi showed increased immunoreactivity of the astrocytic marker GFAP, indicating reactive astrogliosis. We also found decreased whole-brain protein levels of the GABA transporter GAT-1, the glutamate transporter GLT-1, and the astrocytic enzyme glutamine synthetase. Complementary HPLC assays identified reduction in the tissue levels of the glutamate and GABA precursor glutamine. Together, these findings suggest that VRAC provides vital control of brain excitability in mouse adolescence. VRAC deletion leads to a lethal phenotype involving progressive astrogliosis and dysregulation of astrocytic uptake and supply of amino acid neurotransmitters and their precursors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinne S Wilson
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Preeti Dohare
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Shaina Orbeta
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Julia W Nalwalk
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Yunfei Huang
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Russell J Ferland
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine, Biddeford, Maine, USA
| | - Rajan Sah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Annalisa Scimemi
- Department of Biology, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Alexander A Mongin
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
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22
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Colbourn R, Hrabe J, Nicholson C, Perkins M, Goodman JH, Hrabetova S. Rapid volume pulsation of the extracellular space coincides with epileptiform activity in mice and depends on the NBCe1 transporter. J Physiol 2021; 599:3195-3220. [PMID: 33942325 DOI: 10.1113/jp281544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Extracellular space (ECS) rapid volume pulsation (RVP) accompanying epileptiform activity is described for the first time. Such RVP occurs robustly in several in vitro and in vivo mouse models of epileptiform activity. In the in vitro 4-aminopyridine model of epileptiform activity, RVP depends on the activity of the electrogenic Na+ /HCO3 - cotransporter (NBCe1). NBCe1 pharmacological inhibition suppresses RVP and epileptiform activity. Inhibition of changes in ECS volume may be a useful target in epilepsy patients who are resistant to current treatments. ABSTRACT: The extracellular space (ECS) of the brain shrinks persistently by approximately 35% during epileptic seizures. Here we report the discovery of rapid volume pulsation (RVP), further transient drops in ECS volume which accompany events of epileptiform activity. These transient ECS contractions were observed in multiple mouse models of epileptiform activity both in vivo (bicuculline methiodide model) and in vitro (hyaluronan synthase 3 knock-out, picrotoxin, bicuculline and 4-aminopyridine models). By using the probe transients quantification (PTQ) method we show that individual pulses of RVP shrank the ECS by almost 15% in vivo. In the 4-aminopyridine in vitro model, the individual pulses of RVP shrank the ECS by more than 4%, and these transient changes were superimposed on a persistent ECS shrinkage of 36% measured with the real-time iontophoretic method. In this in vitro model, we investigated several channels and transporters that may be required for the generation of RVP and epileptiform activity. Pharmacological blockages of Na+ /K+ /2Cl- cotransporter type 1 (NKCC1), K+ /Cl- cotransporter (KCC2), the water channel aquaporin-4 (AQP4) and inwardly rectifying potassium channel 4.1 (Kir4.1) were ineffective in halting the RVP and the epileptiform activity. In contrast, pharmacological blockade of the electrogenic Na+ /HCO3 - cotransporter (NBCe1) by 4,4'-diisothiocyano-2,2'-stilbenedisulfonic acid (DIDS) eliminated both the RVP and the persistent ECS shrinkage. Importantly, this blocker also stopped the epileptiform activity. These results demonstrate that RVP is closely associated with epileptiform activity across several models of epileptiform activity and therefore the underlying mechanism could potentially represent a novel target for epilepsy management and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Colbourn
- Department of Cell Biology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA.,Neural and Behavioral Science Graduate Program, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Jan Hrabe
- Department of Cell Biology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA.,Medical Physics Laboratory, Center for Biomedical Imaging and Neuromodulation, Nathan S. Kline Institute, Orangeburg, New York, USA
| | - Charles Nicholson
- Department of Cell Biology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA.,Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Matthew Perkins
- Department of Cell Biology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Jeffrey H Goodman
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, The New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York, USA.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA.,Department of Neurology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA.,The Robert F. Furchgott Center for Neural and Behavioral Science, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Sabina Hrabetova
- Department of Cell Biology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA.,The Robert F. Furchgott Center for Neural and Behavioral Science, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
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23
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Alcoreza OB, Patel DC, Tewari BP, Sontheimer H. Dysregulation of Ambient Glutamate and Glutamate Receptors in Epilepsy: An Astrocytic Perspective. Front Neurol 2021; 12:652159. [PMID: 33828523 PMCID: PMC8019783 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.652159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Given the important functions that glutamate serves in excitatory neurotransmission, understanding the regulation of glutamate in physiological and pathological states is critical to devising novel therapies to treat epilepsy. Exclusive expression of pyruvate carboxylase and glutamine synthetase in astrocytes positions astrocytes as essential regulators of glutamate in the central nervous system (CNS). Additionally, astrocytes can significantly alter the volume of the extracellular space (ECS) in the CNS due to their expression of the bi-directional water channel, aquaporin-4, which are enriched at perivascular endfeet. Rapid ECS shrinkage has been observed following epileptiform activity and can inherently concentrate ions and neurotransmitters including glutamate. This review highlights our emerging knowledge on the various potential contributions of astrocytes to epilepsy, particularly supporting the notion that astrocytes may be involved in seizure initiation via failure of homeostatic responses that lead to increased ambient glutamate. We also review the mechanisms whereby ambient glutamate can influence neuronal excitability, including via generation of the glutamate receptor subunit GluN2B-mediated slow inward currents, as well as indirectly affect neuronal excitability via actions on metabotropic glutamate receptors that can potentiate GluN2B currents and influence neuronal glutamate release probabilities. Additionally, we discuss evidence for upregulation of System x c - , a cystine/glutamate antiporter expressed on astrocytes, in epileptic tissue and changes in expression patterns of glutamate receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar B Alcoreza
- Glial Biology in Health, Disease, and Cancer Center, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, VA, United States.,School of Medicine, Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, VA, United States.,Translational Biology, Medicine and Health, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Dipan C Patel
- Glial Biology in Health, Disease, and Cancer Center, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, VA, United States
| | - Bhanu P Tewari
- Glial Biology in Health, Disease, and Cancer Center, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, VA, United States
| | - Harald Sontheimer
- Glial Biology in Health, Disease, and Cancer Center, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, VA, United States
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24
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Binder DK, Steinhäuser C. Astrocytes and Epilepsy. Neurochem Res 2021; 46:2687-2695. [PMID: 33661442 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03236-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Changes in astrocyte channels, transporters, and metabolism play a critical role in seizure generation and epilepsy. In particular, alterations in astrocyte potassium, glutamate, water and adenosine homeostasis and gap junctional coupling have all been associated with hyperexcitability and epileptogenesis (largely in temporal lobe epilepsy). Distinct astrocytic changes have also been identified in other types of epilepsy, such as tuberous sclerosis, tumor-associated epilepsy and post-traumatic epilepsy. Together, the emerging literature on astrocytes and epilepsy provides powerful rationale for distinct new therapeutic targets that are astrocyte-specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin K Binder
- Center for Glial-Neuronal Interactions, Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA.
| | - Christian Steinhäuser
- Institute of Cellular Neurosciences, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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25
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Li H, Lones L, DiAntonio A. Bidirectional regulation of glial potassium buffering - glioprotection versus neuroprotection. eLife 2021; 10:62606. [PMID: 33646119 PMCID: PMC7946421 DOI: 10.7554/elife.62606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glia modulate neuronal excitability and seizure sensitivity by maintaining potassium and water homeostasis. A salt inducible kinase 3 (SIK3)-regulated gene expression program controls the glial capacity to buffer K+ and water in Drosophila, however upstream regulatory mechanisms are unknown. Here, we identify an octopaminergic circuit linking neuronal activity to glial ion and water buffering. Under basal conditions, octopamine functions through the inhibitory octopaminergic G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) OctβR to upregulate glial buffering capacity, while under pathological K+ stress, octopamine signals through the stimulatory octopaminergic GPCR OAMB1 to downregulate the glial buffering program. Failure to downregulate this program leads to intracellular glia swelling and stress signaling, suggesting that turning down this pathway is glioprotective. In the eag shaker Drosophila seizure model, the SIK3-mediated buffering pathway is inactivated. Reactivation of the glial buffering program dramatically suppresses neuronal hyperactivity, seizures, and shortened life span in this mutant. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of a glial-centric therapeutic strategy for diseases of hyperexcitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailun Li
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, United States
| | - Lorenzo Lones
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, United States
| | - Aaron DiAntonio
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, United States.,Needleman Center for Neurometabolism and Axonal Therapeutics, St. Louis, United States
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26
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Verhoog QP, Holtman L, Aronica E, van Vliet EA. Astrocytes as Guardians of Neuronal Excitability: Mechanisms Underlying Epileptogenesis. Front Neurol 2020; 11:591690. [PMID: 33324329 PMCID: PMC7726323 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.591690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are key homeostatic regulators in the central nervous system and play important roles in physiology. After brain damage caused by e.g., status epilepticus, traumatic brain injury, or stroke, astrocytes may adopt a reactive phenotype. This process of reactive astrogliosis is important to restore brain homeostasis. However, persistent reactive astrogliosis can be detrimental for the brain and contributes to the development of epilepsy. In this review, we will focus on physiological functions of astrocytes in the normal brain as well as pathophysiological functions in the epileptogenic brain, with a focus on acquired epilepsy. We will discuss the role of astrocyte-related processes in epileptogenesis, including reactive astrogliosis, disturbances in energy supply and metabolism, gliotransmission, and extracellular ion concentrations, as well as blood-brain barrier dysfunction and dysregulation of blood flow. Since dysfunction of astrocytes can contribute to epilepsy, we will also discuss their role as potential targets for new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quirijn P. Verhoog
- Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Department of Neuropathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Linda Holtman
- Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of Neuropathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, Netherlands
| | - Erwin A. van Vliet
- Department of Neuropathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Center for Neuroscience, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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27
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Trosclair K, Dhaibar HA, Gautier NM, Mishra V, Glasscock E. Neuron-specific Kv1.1 deficiency is sufficient to cause epilepsy, premature death, and cardiorespiratory dysregulation. Neurobiol Dis 2020; 137:104759. [PMID: 31978607 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2020.104759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is the leading cause of epilepsy-related mortality, but the precise cellular substrates involved remain elusive. Epilepsy-associated ion channel genes with co-expression in brain and heart have been proposed as SUDEP candidate genes since they provide a singular unifying link between seizures and lethal cardiac arrhythmias. Here, we generated a conditional knockout (cKO) mouse with neuron-specific deletion of Kcna1, a SUDEP-associated gene with brain-heart co-expression, to test whether seizure-evoked cardiac arrhythmias and SUDEP require the absence of Kv1.1 in both brain and heart or whether ablation in neurons is sufficient. To obtain cKO mice, we developed a floxed Kcna1 mouse which we crossed to mice with the Synapsin1-Cre transgene, which selectively deletes Kcna1 in most neurons. Molecular analyses confirmed neuron-specific Kcna1 deletion in cKO mice and corresponding loss of Kv1.1 except in cerebellum where Synapsin1-Cre is not highly expressed. Survival studies and electroencephalography, electrocardiography, and plethysmography recordings showed that cKO mice exhibit premature death, epilepsy, and cardiorespiratory dysregulation but to a lesser degree than global knockouts. Heart rate variability (HRV) was increased in cKO mice with peaks during daytime suggesting disturbed diurnal HRV patterns as a SUDEP biomarker. Residual Kv1.1 expression in cKO cerebellum suggests it may play an unexpected role in regulating ictal cardiorespiratory dysfunction and SUDEP risk. This work demonstrates the principle that channelopathies with brain-heart expression patterns can increase death risk by brain-driven mechanisms alone without a functionally compromised heart, reinforcing seizure control as a primary clinical strategy for SUDEP prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krystle Trosclair
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, LA 71103, United States of America.
| | - Hemangini A Dhaibar
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, LA 71103, United States of America.
| | - Nicole M Gautier
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, LA 71103, United States of America.
| | - Vikas Mishra
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, LA 71103, United States of America.
| | - Edward Glasscock
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, LA 71103, United States of America; Department of Biological Sciences, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX 75275, United States of America.
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28
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Babola TA, Kersbergen CJ, Wang HC, Bergles DE. Purinergic signaling in cochlear supporting cells reduces hair cell excitability by increasing the extracellular space. eLife 2020; 9:e52160. [PMID: 31913121 PMCID: PMC7015667 DOI: 10.7554/elife.52160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurons in developing sensory pathways exhibit spontaneous bursts of electrical activity that are critical for survival, maturation and circuit refinement. In the auditory system, intrinsically generated activity arises within the cochlea, but the molecular mechanisms that initiate this activity remain poorly understood. We show that burst firing of mouse inner hair cells prior to hearing onset requires P2RY1 autoreceptors expressed by inner supporting cells. P2RY1 activation triggers K+ efflux and depolarization of hair cells, as well as osmotic shrinkage of supporting cells that dramatically increased the extracellular space and speed of K+ redistribution. Pharmacological inhibition or genetic disruption of P2RY1 suppressed neuronal burst firing by reducing K+ release, but unexpectedly enhanced their tonic firing, as water resorption by supporting cells reduced the extracellular space, leading to K+ accumulation. These studies indicate that purinergic signaling in supporting cells regulates hair cell excitability by controlling the volume of the extracellular space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis A Babola
- The Solomon Snyder Department of NeuroscienceJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Calvin J Kersbergen
- The Solomon Snyder Department of NeuroscienceJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Han Chin Wang
- The Solomon Snyder Department of NeuroscienceJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Dwight E Bergles
- The Solomon Snyder Department of NeuroscienceJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreUnited States
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreUnited States
- Kavli Neuroscience Discovery InstituteJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreUnited States
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29
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Altman K, Shavit-Stein E, Maggio N. Post Stroke Seizures and Epilepsy: From Proteases to Maladaptive Plasticity. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:397. [PMID: 31607864 PMCID: PMC6755337 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Post stroke epilepsy (PSE) is the most common cause of seizures in the elderly, yet its underlying mechanism is poorly understood. The classification of PSE is confusing, and there is neither a clear agreement on its incidence and prognosis nor a consensus about specific treatments. The diagnosis of PSE requires the occurrence of late seizures: epileptic events occurring 1 week or more after an ischemic stroke. Late seizures differ from early seizures by the presence of permanent structural changes in the brain. Those structural changes cause a shift in the regulation of neuronal firing and lead to circuit dysfunctions, and thus to a long-term epileptic condition. The coagulation cascade and some of its major components, serine proteases such as thrombin, are known to participate in the acute phase of a stroke. Recent discoveries found that thrombin and its protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR1), are involved in the development of maladaptive plasticity. Therefore, we suggest that thrombin and PAR1 may have a role in the development of PSE by inducing permanent structural changes after the ischemic events toward the development of epileptic focuses. We are confident that future studies will lead to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of PSE, as well as development of more directed therapies for its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keren Altman
- Department of Neurology, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Efrat Shavit-Stein
- Department of Neurology, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Nicola Maggio
- Department of Neurology, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
- Talpiot Medical Leadership Program, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
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30
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Zhao HH, Du H, Cai Y, Liu C, Xie Z, Chen KC. Time-resolved quantification of the dynamic extracellular space in the brain: study of cortical spreading depression. J Neurophysiol 2019; 121:1735-1747. [PMID: 30786223 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00348.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular diffusion in the brain is customarily characterized by two parameters, the extracellular space (ECS) volume fraction α and the diffusion tortuosity λ. How these two parameters are temporarily modified and correlated in a physiological/pathological event remains unclear to date. Using tetramethylammonium (TMA+) as an ECS ion tracer in a newly updated iontophoretic sinusoidal method, we studied in this work the dynamic α(t) and λ(t) in rat somatosensory cortex during spreading depression (SD). Temporal variations of α(t) and λ(t), as evoked by SD, were obtained through analyses of the extracellular TMA+ diffusion waveform resulting from a sinusoidally modulated point source. Most of the time, cortical SD induced coordinated α(t) decreases and λ(t) increases. In rare occasions, SD induced sole decreases of α(t) with no changes in λ(t). The independent modulation of α(t) and λ(t) was neither associated with cortical anatomy nor with the specific shape of the SD field potential wave. Changes of α(t) and λ(t) often took place acutely at the onset of SD, followed by a more transient modulation. Compared with the prior iontophoretic methods of TMA+, the sinusoidal method provides time-resolved quantification of α(t) and λ(t) in relative terms but also raises a higher property requirement on the TMA+-selective microelectrode. The sinusoidal method could become a valuable tool in the studies of the dynamic ECS response in various brain events. NEW & NOTEWORTHY An iontophoretic sinusoidal method was applied to study the dynamic changes of two extracellular space parameters, the extracellular volume fraction α(t) and tortuosity λ(t), in the brain during cortical spreading depression. Both parameters showed coordinated (most often) and independent (rarely) modulations in spreading depression. The sinusoidal method is equally applicable to other acute pathological events and a valuable tool to study the functional role of extracellular space in brain events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Hui Zhao
- Multidisciplinary Research Center, Shantou University , Shantou, Guangdong , China
| | - Hong Du
- Multidisciplinary Research Center, Shantou University , Shantou, Guangdong , China
| | - Yujie Cai
- Multidisciplinary Research Center, Shantou University , Shantou, Guangdong , China
| | - Chao Liu
- Multidisciplinary Research Center, Shantou University , Shantou, Guangdong , China
| | - Zeyu Xie
- Neurosurgery Division, Second Affiliated Hospital of the School of Medicine, Shantou University , Shantou, Guangdong , China
| | - Kevin C Chen
- Multidisciplinary Research Center, Shantou University , Shantou, Guangdong , China.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Shantou University , Shantou, Guangdong , China
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31
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ECS Dynamism and Its Influence on Neuronal Excitability and Seizures. Neurochem Res 2019; 44:1020-1036. [DOI: 10.1007/s11064-019-02773-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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32
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Long-Term Effects of Myoinositol on Behavioural Seizures and Biochemical Changes Evoked by Kainic Acid Induced Epileptogenesis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:4518160. [PMID: 30941363 PMCID: PMC6421025 DOI: 10.1155/2019/4518160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most devastating neurological diseases and despite significant efforts there is no cure available. Occurrence of spontaneous seizures in epilepsy is preceded by numerous functional and structural pathophysiological reorganizations in the brain—a process called epileptogenesis. Treatment strategies targeting this process may be efficient for preventing spontaneous recurrent seizures (SRS) in epilepsy, or for modification of disease progression. We have previously shown that (i) myoinositol (MI) pretreatment significantly decreases severity of acute seizures (status epilepticus: SE) induced by kainic acid (KA) in experimental animals and (ii) that daily post-SE administration of MI for 4 weeks prevents certain biochemical changes triggered by SE. However it was not established whether such MI treatment also exerts long-term effects on the frequency of SRS. In the present study we have shown that, in KA-induced post-SE epilepsy model in rats, MI treatment for 28 days reduces frequency and duration of behavioural SRS not only during the treatment, but also after its termination for the following 4 weeks. Moreover, MI has significant effects on molecular changes in the hippocampus, including mi-RNA expression spectrum, as well as mRNA levels of sodium-MI transporter and LRRC8A subunit of the volume regulated anionic channel. Taken together, these data suggest that molecular changes induced by MI treatment may counteract epileptogenesis. Thus, here we provide data indicating antiepileptogenic properties of MI, which further supports the idea of developing new antiepileptogenic and disease modifying drug that targets MI system.
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33
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Min R, van der Knaap MS. Genetic defects disrupting glial ion and water homeostasis in the brain. Brain Pathol 2019; 28:372-387. [PMID: 29740942 PMCID: PMC8028498 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.12602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Electrical activity of neurons in the brain, caused by the movement of ions between intracellular and extracellular compartments, is the basis of all our thoughts and actions. Maintaining the correct ionic concentration gradients is therefore crucial for brain functioning. Ion fluxes are accompanied by the displacement of osmotically obliged water. Since even minor brain swelling leads to severe brain damage and even death, brain ion and water movement has to be tightly regulated. Glial cells, in particular astrocytes, play a key role in ion and water homeostasis. They are endowed with specific channels, pumps and carriers to regulate ion and water flow. Glial cells form a large panglial syncytium to aid the uptake and dispersal of ions and water, and make extensive contacts with brain fluid barriers for disposal of excess ions and water. Genetic defects in glial proteins involved in ion and water homeostasis disrupt brain functioning, thereby leading to neurological diseases. Since white matter edema is often a hallmark disease feature, many of these diseases are characterized as leukodystrophies. In this review we summarize our current understanding of inherited glial diseases characterized by disturbed brain ion and water homeostasis by integrating findings from MRI, genetics, neuropathology and animal models for disease. We discuss how mutations in different glial proteins lead to disease, and highlight the similarities and differences between these diseases. To come to effective therapies for this group of diseases, a better mechanistic understanding of how glial cells shape ion and water movement in the brain is crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rogier Min
- Department of Child Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marjo S van der Knaap
- Department of Child Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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34
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Bursting at the Seams: Molecular Mechanisms Mediating Astrocyte Swelling. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20020330. [PMID: 30650535 PMCID: PMC6359623 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20020330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain swelling is one of the most robust predictors of outcome following brain injury, including ischemic, traumatic, hemorrhagic, metabolic or other injury. Depending on the specific type of insult, brain swelling can arise from the combined space-occupying effects of extravasated blood, extracellular edema fluid, cellular swelling, vascular engorgement and hydrocephalus. Of these, arguably the least well appreciated is cellular swelling. Here, we explore current knowledge regarding swelling of astrocytes, the most abundant cell type in the brain, and the one most likely to contribute to pathological brain swelling. We review the major molecular mechanisms identified to date that contribute to or mitigate astrocyte swelling via ion transport, and we touch upon the implications of astrocyte swelling in health and disease.
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35
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Semyachkina-Glushkovskaya O, Postnov D, Kurths J. Blood⁻Brain Barrier, Lymphatic Clearance, and Recovery: Ariadne's Thread in Labyrinths of Hypotheses. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19123818. [PMID: 30513598 PMCID: PMC6320935 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19123818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The peripheral lymphatic system plays a crucial role in the recovery mechanisms after many pathological changes, such as infection, trauma, vascular, or metabolic diseases. The lymphatic clearance of different tissues from waste products, viruses, bacteria, and toxic proteins significantly contributes to the correspondent recovery processes. However, understanding of the cerebral lymphatic functions is a challenging problem. The exploration of mechanisms of lymphatic communication with brain fluids as well as the role of the lymphatic system in brain drainage, clearance, and recovery is still in its infancy. Here we review novel concepts on the anatomy and physiology of the lymphatics in the brain, which warrant a substantial revision of our knowledge about the role of lymphatics in the rehabilitation of the brain functions after neural pathologies. We discuss a new vision on the connective bridge between the opening of a blood–brain barrier and activation of the meningeal lymphatic clearance. The ability to stimulate the lymph flow in the brain, is likely to play an important role in developing future innovative strategies in neurorehabilitation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dmitry Postnov
- Department of Optics and Biophotonics, Saratov State University, 83 Astrakhanskaya str., 410012 Saratov, Russia.
| | - Jürgen Kurths
- Department of Human and Animal Physiology, Saratov State University, Astrakhanskaya Str. 83, 410012 Saratov, Russia.
- Physics Department, Humboldt University, Newtonstrasse 15, 12489 Berlin, Germany.
- Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, Telegrafenberg A31, 14473 Potsdam, Germany.
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36
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Wilson CS, Mongin AA. Cell Volume Control in Healthy Brain and Neuropathologies. CURRENT TOPICS IN MEMBRANES 2018; 81:385-455. [PMID: 30243438 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctm.2018.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Regulation of cellular volume is a critical homeostatic process that is intimately linked to ionic and osmotic balance in the brain tissue. Because the brain is encased in the rigid skull and has a very complex cellular architecture, even minute changes in the volume of extracellular and intracellular compartments have a very strong impact on tissue excitability and function. The failure of cell volume control is a major feature of several neuropathologies, such as hyponatremia, stroke, epilepsy, hyperammonemia, and others. There is strong evidence that such dysregulation, especially uncontrolled cell swelling, plays a major role in adverse pathological outcomes. To protect themselves, brain cells utilize a variety of mechanisms to maintain their optimal volume, primarily by releasing or taking in ions and small organic molecules through diverse volume-sensitive ion channels and transporters. In principle, the mechanisms of cell volume regulation are not unique to the brain and share many commonalities with other tissues. However, because ions and some organic osmolytes (e.g., major amino acid neurotransmitters) have a strong impact on neuronal excitability, cell volume regulation in the brain is a surprisingly treacherous process, which may cause more harm than good. This topical review covers the established and emerging information in this rapidly developing area of physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinne S Wilson
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, United States
| | - Alexander A Mongin
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, United States; Department of Biophysics and Functional Diagnostics, Siberian State Medical University, Tomsk, Russian Federation
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37
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Antiphospholipid antibodies in epilepsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Autoimmun Rev 2018; 17:755-767. [PMID: 29885542 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2018.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoimmunity is believed to play an important causative role in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. There are evidences for the presence of autoantibodies in patients with epilepsy. To date, many studies have assessed the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) in epilepsy patients, though the relationship has been inconclusive. AIMS The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the presence of aPLs in epileptic patients as compared to healthy controls. METHODS Five electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus and Google Scholar) were searched systematically. Study-specific odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects model. Quality assessment was carried out by using the modified 9-star Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). L'Abbé plots were generated to visually inspect heterogeneity while publication bias was evaluated via visualization of contour- enhanced funnel plots, and Begg's and Egger's tests. RESULTS Based on the inclusion criteria, 14 studies were selected involving 1248 epilepsy patients and 800 healthy controls. The majority of epilepsy was categorised as generalised or partial and none had comorbidity with autoimmune diseases. Significant presence of both anticardiolipin (aCL) antibodies (OR: 5.16, 95% CI: 3.21-8.28, p < 0.00001) and anti-β2- glycoprotein I (anti-β2-GPI) antibodies (OR: 2.95, 95% CI: 1.07-8.11, p = 0.04) exhibited comorbid association with epilepsy patients as compared to healthy controls. Subgroup analyses revealed that presence of aCL antibodies was more specifically observed in paediatrics (OR: 4.57, 95% CI: 2.57-8.15, p < 0.00001) than adults (OR: 4.24, 95% CI: 1.80-10.01, p = 0.001). The odds of aCL antibody presence was higher in partial epilepsy patients (OR: 7.88, 95% CI: 3.23-19.24, p < 0.00001) than that of generalised (OR: 3.76, 95% CI: 2.15-6.59, p < 0.00001) and in Asian epileptic patients (OR: 9.56, 95% CI: 2.69-33.95, p = 0.0005) than Europeans (OR: 4.35, 95% CI: 2.74-6.92, p < 0.00001). The presence of anti-β2-GPI antibodies was significant in paediatric (OR: 6.44, 95% CI: 1.39-29.89, p = 0.02) and African population with epilepsies (OR: 10.59, 95% CI: 1.22-92.25, p = 0.03). NOS of the majority of the studies (11/14) indicated a high methodological quality. No substantial heterogeneity was observed either from the quantitative analysis or from the L'Abbé plots while no significant publication bias was detected from funnel plots; Begg's and Egger's tests. CONCLUSION Since none of the epilepsy subjects exhibited any comorbid autoimmune disorders, significant presence of aCL and anti-β2-GPI antibodies indicate towards their contribution in immune-mediated general pathogenesis of epilepsy.
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Vargas-Sánchez K, Mogilevskaya M, Rodríguez-Pérez J, Rubiano MG, Javela JJ, González-Reyes RE. Astroglial role in the pathophysiology of status epilepticus: an overview. Oncotarget 2018; 9:26954-26976. [PMID: 29928494 PMCID: PMC6003549 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.25485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Status epilepticus is a medical emergency with elevated morbidity and mortality rates, and represents a leading cause of epilepsy-related deaths. Though status epilepticus can occur at any age, it manifests more likely in children and elderly people. Despite the common prevalence of epileptic disorders, a complete explanation for the mechanisms leading to development of self-limited or long lasting seizures (as in status epilepticus) are still lacking. Apart from neurons, research evidence suggests the involvement of immune and glial cells in epileptogenesis. Among glial cells, astrocytes represent an ideal target for the study of the pathophysiology of status epilepticus, due to their key role in homeostatic balance of the central nervous system. During status epilepticus, astroglial cells are activated by the presence of cytokines, damage associated molecular patterns and reactive oxygen species. The persistent activation of astrocytes leads to a decrease in glutamate clearance with a corresponding accumulation in the synaptic extracellular space, increasing the chance of neuronal excitotoxicity. Moreover, major alterations in astrocytic gap junction coupling, inflammation and receptor expression, facilitate the generation of seizures. Astrocytes are also involved in dysregulation of inhibitory transmission in the central nervous system and directly participate in ionic homeostatic alterations during status epilepticus. In the present review, we focus on the functional and structural changes in astrocytic activity that participate in the development and maintenance of status epilepticus, with special attention on concurrent inflammatory alterations. We also include potential astrocytic treatment targets for status epilepticus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Vargas-Sánchez
- Biomedical Sciences Research Group, School of Medicine, Universidad Antonio Nariño, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - John Rodríguez-Pérez
- Biomedical Sciences Research Group, School of Medicine, Universidad Antonio Nariño, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - María G Rubiano
- Biomedical Sciences Research Group, School of Medicine, Universidad Antonio Nariño, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - José J Javela
- Grupo de Clínica y Salud Mental, Programa de Psicología, Universidad Católica de Pereira, Pereira, Colombia
| | - Rodrigo E González-Reyes
- Universidad del Rosario, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, GI en Neurociencias-NeURos, Bogotá, Colombia
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Sharma S, Puttachary S, Thippeswamy T. Glial source of nitric oxide in epileptogenesis: A target for disease modification in epilepsy. J Neurosci Res 2017; 97:1363-1377. [PMID: 29230865 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Epileptogenesis is the process of developing an epileptic condition and/or its progression once it is established. The molecules that initiate, promote, and propagate remarkable changes in the brain during epileptogenesis are emerging as targets for prevention/treatment of epilepsy. Epileptogenesis is a continuous process that follows immediately after status epilepticus (SE) in animal models of acquired temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Both SE and epileptogenesis are potential therapeutic targets for the discovery of anticonvulsants and antiepileptogenic or disease-modifying agents. For translational studies, SE targets are appropriate for screening anticonvulsive drugs prior to their advancement as therapeutic agents, while targets of epileptogenesis are relevant for identification and development of therapeutic agents that can either prevent or modify the disease or its onset. The acute seizure models do not reveal antiepileptogenic properties of anticonvulsive drugs. This review highlights the important components of epileptogenesis and the long-term impact of intervening one of these components, nitric oxide (NO), in rat and mouse kainate models of TLE. NO is a putative pleotropic gaseous neurotransmitter and an important contributor of nitro-oxidative stress that coexists with neuroinflammation and epileptogenesis. The long-term impact of inhibiting the glial source of NO during early epileptogenesis in the rat model of TLE is reviewed. The importance of sex as a biological variable in disease modification strategies in epilepsy is also briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaunik Sharma
- Epilepsy Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
| | | | - Thimmasettappa Thippeswamy
- Epilepsy Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
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