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Thomazeau A, Lassalle O, Manzoni OJ. Glutamatergic synaptic deficits in the prefrontal cortex of the Ts65Dn mouse model for Down syndrome. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1171797. [PMID: 37841687 PMCID: PMC10569174 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1171797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS), the most prevalent cause of intellectual disability, stems from a chromosomal anomaly resulting in an entire or partial extra copy of chromosome 21. This leads to intellectual disability and a range of associated symptoms. While there has been considerable research focused on the Ts65Dn mouse model of DS, particularly in the context of the hippocampus, the synaptic underpinnings of prefrontal cortex (PFC) dysfunction in DS, including deficits in working memory, remain largely uncharted territory. In a previous study featuring mBACtgDyrk1a mice, which manifest overexpression of the Dyrk1a gene, a known candidate gene linked to intellectual disability and microcephaly in DS, we documented adverse effects on spine density, alterations in the molecular composition of synapses, and the presence of synaptic plasticity deficits within the PFC. The current study aimed to enrich our understanding of the roles of different genes in DS by studying Ts65Dn mice, which overexpress several genes including Dyrk1a, to compare with our previous work on mBACtgDyrk1a mice. Through ex-vivo electrophysiological experiments, including patch-clamp and extracellular field potential recordings, we identified alterations in the intrinsic properties of PFC layer V/VI pyramidal neurons in Ts65Dn male mice. Additionally, we observed changes in the synaptic plasticity range. Notably, long-term depression was absent in Ts65Dn mice, while synaptic or pharmacological long-term potentiation remained fully expressed in these mice. These findings provide valuable insights into the intricate synaptic mechanisms contributing to PFC dysfunction in DS, shedding light on potential therapeutic avenues for addressing the neurocognitive symptoms associated with this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurore Thomazeau
- Côte d’Azur, CNRS UMR7275, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Valbonne, France
- Université Aix-Marseille, Marseille, France
- INMED, INSERM U1249, Marseille, France
| | - Olivier Lassalle
- Université Aix-Marseille, Marseille, France
- INMED, INSERM U1249, Marseille, France
| | - Olivier J. Manzoni
- Université Aix-Marseille, Marseille, France
- INMED, INSERM U1249, Marseille, France
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2
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Bartesaghi R. Brain circuit pathology in Down syndrome: from neurons to neural networks. Rev Neurosci 2022; 34:365-423. [PMID: 36170842 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2022-0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS), a genetic pathology caused by triplication of chromosome 21, is characterized by brain hypotrophy and impairment of cognition starting from infancy. While studies in mouse models of DS have elucidated the major neuroanatomical and neurochemical defects of DS, comparatively fewer investigations have focused on the electrophysiology of the DS brain. Electrical activity is at the basis of brain functioning. Therefore, knowledge of the way in which brain circuits operate in DS is fundamental to understand the causes of behavioral impairment and devise targeted interventions. This review summarizes the state of the art regarding the electrical properties of the DS brain, starting from individual neurons and culminating in signal processing in whole neuronal networks. The reported evidence derives from mouse models of DS and from brain tissues and neurons derived from individuals with DS. EEG data recorded in individuals with DS are also provided as a key tool to understand the impact of brain circuit alterations on global brain activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Bartesaghi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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3
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Kleschevnikov AM. Enhanced GIRK2 channel signaling in Down syndrome: A feasible role in the development of abnormal nascent neural circuits. Front Genet 2022; 13:1006068. [PMID: 36171878 PMCID: PMC9510977 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1006068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The most distinctive feature of Down syndrome (DS) is moderate to severe cognitive impairment. Genetic, molecular, and neuronal mechanisms of this complex DS phenotype are currently under intensive investigation. It is becoming increasingly clear that the abnormalities arise from a combination of initial changes caused by triplication of genes on human chromosome 21 (HSA21) and later compensatory adaptations affecting multiple brain systems. Consequently, relatively mild initial cognitive deficits become pronounced with age. This pattern of changes suggests that one approach to improving cognitive function in DS is to target the earliest critical changes, the prevention of which can change the ‘trajectory’ of the brain development and reduce the destructive effects of the secondary alterations. Here, we review the experimental data on the role of KCNJ6 in DS-specific brain abnormalities, focusing on a putative role of this gene in the development of abnormal neural circuits in the hippocampus of genetic mouse models of DS. It is suggested that the prevention of these early abnormalities with pharmacological or genetic means can ameliorate cognitive impairment in DS.
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Li R, Wang B, Cao X, Li C, Hu Y, Yan D, Yang Y, Wang L, Meng L, Hu Z. Sevoflurane Exposure in the Developing Brain Induces Hyperactivity, Anxiety-Free, and Enhancement of Memory Consolidation in Mice. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:934230. [PMID: 35847668 PMCID: PMC9278137 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.934230] [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: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sevoflurane exposure at brain developmental stages has been reported to induce neurotoxicity and, subsequently, results in learning deficits at the juvenile age. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of prior early-age sevoflurane exposure on locomotor activity, anxiety, CA1-dependent learning, and spatial memory, as well as synapse changes in mice. Methods Totally, 3% sevoflurane was given to neonatal mice at postnatal day 7 for 4 h. These sevoflurane-treated mice were later subjected to open field and Morris water maze tests at their adult age (postnatal days 60–90) to assess their motor activity and spatial learning ability, respectively. The brain slices of sevoflurane-treated and control mice were examined for dendritic spine density and long-term potentiation (LTP) features following behavior tests (postnatal day 60). Protein levels of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subtypes and PSD95 in brain lysate were measured by using immunoblotting at the same age (postnatal day 60). Results Prior early-age sevoflurane exposure increased the overall moving distance, prolonged the central-area lingering time, and increased the central-area entries of adult mice. Sevoflurane-treated mice spent more time in the target quadrant during the probe test. An increase of the spine density of pyramidal neurons in the CA1 region was observed in sevoflurane-treated mice. NMDA receptor GluN2A subunit, but not the GluN2B or PSD95, was increased in the brain lysate of sevoflurane-treated mice compared with that of control mice. LTP in the hippocampus did not significantly differ between sevoflurane-treated and control mice. Conclusion Exposure to sevoflurane for mice during an early brain developmental stage (P7) induces later-on hyperactivity, anxiety-free, and enhancement of memory retention. These observations shed light on future investigations on the underlying mechanisms of sevoflurane’s effect on neuronal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bei Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Children Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohong Cao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, Jiaxing Hospital of Traditional China Medicine, Jiaxing, China
| | - Chao Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, Lishui Municipal Central Hospital, Lishui, China
| | - Yuhan Hu
- Cell Biology Department, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Dandan Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanchang Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liqing Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lingzhong Meng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyong Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Kleschevnikov A. GIRK2 Channels in Down Syndrome and Alzheimer's Disease. Curr Alzheimer Res 2022; 19:819-829. [PMID: 36567290 DOI: 10.2174/1567205020666221223122110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment in Down syndrome (DS) results from the abnormal expression of hundreds of genes. However, the impact of KCNJ6, a gene located in the middle of the 'Down syndrome critical region' of chromosome 21, seems to stand out. KCNJ6 encodes GIRK2 (KIR3.2) subunits of G protein-gated inwardly rectifying potassium channels, which serve as effectors for GABAB, m2, 5HT1A, A1, and many other postsynaptic metabotropic receptors. GIRK2 subunits are heavily expressed in neocortex, cerebellum, and hippocampus. By controlling resting membrane potential and neuronal excitability, GIRK2 channels may thus affect both synaptic plasticity and stability of neural circuits in the brain regions important for learning and memory. Here, we discuss recent experimental data regarding the role of KCNJ6/GIRK2 in neuronal abnormalities and cognitive impairment in models of DS and Alzheimer's disease (AD). The results compellingly show that signaling through GIRK2 channels is abnormally enhanced in mouse genetic models of Down syndrome and that partial suppression of GIRK2 channels with pharmacological or genetic means can restore synaptic plasticity and improve impaired cognitive functions. On the other hand, signaling through GIRK2 channels is downregulated in AD models, such as models of early amyloidopathy. In these models, reduced GIRK2 channel signaling promotes neuronal hyperactivity, causing excitatory-inhibitory imbalance and neuronal death. Accordingly, activation of GABAB/GIRK2 signaling by GIRK channel activators or GABAB receptor agonists may reduce Aβ-induced hyperactivity and subsequent neuronal death, thereby exerting a neuroprotective effect in models of AD.
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Abstract
GABAB receptors are implicated in numerous central nervous system-based behaviours and mechanisms, including cognitive processing in preclinical animal models. Homeostatic changes in the expression and function of these receptors across brain structures have been found to affect cognitive processing. Numerous preclinical studies have focused on the role of GABAB receptors in learning, memory and cognition per se with some interesting, although sometimes contradictory, findings. The majority of the existing clinical literature focuses on alterations in GABAB receptor function in conditions and disorders whose main symptomatology includes deficits in cognitive processing. The aim of this chapter is to delineate the role of GABAB receptors in cognitive processes in health and disease of animal models and human clinical populations. More specifically, this review aims to present literature on the role of GABAB receptors in animal models with cognitive deficits, especially those of learning and memory. Further, it aims to capture the progress and advances of research studies on the effects of GABAB receptor compounds in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative conditions with cognitive dysfunctions. The neurodevelopmental conditions covered include autism spectrum disorders, fragile X syndrome and Down's syndrome and the neurodegenerative conditions discussed are Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy and autoimmune anti-GABAB encephalitis. Although some findings are contradictory, results indicate a possible therapeutic role of GABAB receptor compounds for the treatment of cognitive dysfunction and learning/memory impairments for some of these conditions, especially in neurodegeneration. Moreover, future research efforts should aim to develop selective GABAB receptor compounds with minimal, if any, side effects.
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Gennaccaro L, Fuchs C, Loi M, Roncacè V, Trazzi S, Ait-Bali Y, Galvani G, Berardi AC, Medici G, Tassinari M, Ren E, Rimondini R, Giustetto M, Aicardi G, Ciani E. A GABA B receptor antagonist rescues functional and structural impairments in the perirhinal cortex of a mouse model of CDKL5 deficiency disorder. Neurobiol Dis 2021; 153:105304. [PMID: 33621640 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2021.105304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
CDKL5 (cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5) deficiency disorder (CDD) is a severe neurodevelopmental encephalopathy characterized by early-onset epilepsy and intellectual disability. Studies in mouse models have linked CDKL5 deficiency to defects in neuronal maturation and synaptic plasticity, and disruption of the excitatory/inhibitory balance. Interestingly, increased density of both GABAergic synaptic terminals and parvalbumin inhibitory interneurons was recently observed in the primary visual cortex of Cdkl5 knockout (KO) mice, suggesting that excessive GABAergic transmission might contribute to the visual deficits characteristic of CDD. However, the functional relevance of cortical GABAergic circuits abnormalities in these mutant mice has not been investigated so far. Here we examined GABAergic circuits in the perirhinal cortex (PRC) of Cdkl5 KO mice, where we previously observed impaired long-term potentiation (LTP) associated with deficits in novel object recognition (NOR) memory. We found a higher number of GABAergic (VGAT)-immunopositive terminals in the PRC of Cdkl5 KO compared to wild-type mice, suggesting that increased inhibitory transmission might contribute to LTP impairment. Interestingly, while exposure of PRC slices to the GABAA receptor antagonist picrotoxin had no positive effects on LTP in Cdkl5 KO mice, the selective GABAB receptor antagonist CGP55845 restored LTP magnitude, suggesting that exaggerated GABAB receptor-mediated inhibition contributes to LTP impairment in mutants. Moreover, acute in vivo treatment with CGP55845 increased the number of PSD95 positive puncta as well as density and maturation of dendritic spines in PRC, and restored NOR memory in Cdkl5 KO mice. The present data show the efficacy of limiting excessive GABAB receptor-mediated signaling in improving synaptic plasticity and cognition in CDD mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gennaccaro
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudia Fuchs
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Manuela Loi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Roncacè
- Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefania Trazzi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Yassine Ait-Bali
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Galvani
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Giorgio Medici
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marianna Tassinari
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Ren
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Rimondini
- Department of Medical and Clinical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maurizio Giustetto
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Giorgio Aicardi
- Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Elisabetta Ciani
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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Arima-Yoshida F, Raveau M, Shimohata A, Amano K, Fukushima A, Watanave M, Kobayashi S, Hattori S, Usui M, Sago H, Mataga N, Miyakawa T, Yamakawa K, Manabe T. Impairment of spatial memory accuracy improved by Cbr1 copy number resumption and GABA B receptor-dependent enhancement of synaptic inhibition in Down syndrome model mice. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14187. [PMID: 32843708 PMCID: PMC7447763 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71085-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Down syndrome is a complex genetic disorder caused by the presence of three copies of the chromosome 21 in humans. The most common models, carrying extra-copies of overlapping fragments of mouse chromosome 16 that is syntenic to human chromosome 21, are Ts2Cje, Ts1Cje and Ts1Rhr mice. In electrophysiological analyses using hippocampal slices, we found that the later phase of the depolarization during tetanic stimulation, which was regulated by GABAB receptors, was significantly smaller in Ts1Cje and Ts2Cje mice than that in WT controls but not in Ts1Rhr mice. Furthermore, isolated GABAB receptor-mediated inhibitory synaptic responses were larger in Ts1Cje mice. To our knowledge, this is the first report that directly shows the enhancement of GABAB receptor-mediated synaptic currents in Ts1Cje mice. These results suggest that GABAB receptor-mediated synaptic inhibition was enhanced in Ts1Cje and Ts2Cje mice but not in Ts1Rhr mice. The Cbr1 gene, which is present in three copies in Ts1Cje and Ts2Cje but not in Ts1Rhr, encodes carbonyl reductase that may facilitate GABAB-receptor activity through a reduction of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Interestingly, we found that a reduction of PGE2 and an memory impairment in Ts1Cje mice were alleviated when only Cbr1 was set back to two copies (Ts1Cje;Cbr1+/+/-). However, the GABAB receptor-dependent enhancement of synaptic inhibition in Ts1Cje was unaltered in Ts1Cje;Cbr1+/+/- mice. These results indicate that Cbr1 is one of the genes responsible for DS cognitive impairments and the gene(s) other than Cbr1, which is included in Ts1Cje but not in Ts1Rhr, is responsible for the GABAB receptor-dependent over-inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumiko Arima-Yoshida
- Division of Neuronal Network, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Matthieu Raveau
- Laboratory for Neurogenetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Atsushi Shimohata
- Laboratory for Neurogenetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Kenji Amano
- Laboratory for Neurogenetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Akihiro Fukushima
- Division of Neuronal Network, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Masashi Watanave
- Division of Neuronal Network, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Shizuka Kobayashi
- Division of Neuronal Network, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Satoko Hattori
- Division of Systems Medical Science, Institute for Comprehensive Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
| | - Masaya Usui
- Research Resources Division, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Sago
- Center for Maternal-Fetal, Neonatal and Reproductive Medicine, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, 157-8535, Japan
| | - Nobuko Mataga
- Research Resources Division, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Miyakawa
- Division of Systems Medical Science, Institute for Comprehensive Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, 470-1192, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Yamakawa
- Laboratory for Neurogenetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan. .,Department of Neurodevelopmental Disorder Genetics, Institute of Brain Sciences, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi, 467-8601, Japan.
| | - Toshiya Manabe
- Division of Neuronal Network, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan.
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9
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Lanzillotta C, Zuliani I, Tramutola A, Barone E, Blarzino C, Folgiero V, Caforio M, Valentini D, Villani A, Locatelli F, Butterfield DA, Head E, Perluigi M, Abisambra JF, Di Domenico F. Chronic PERK induction promotes Alzheimer-like neuropathology in Down syndrome: Insights for therapeutic intervention. Prog Neurobiol 2020; 196:101892. [PMID: 32795489 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2020.101892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
A major challenge in neurobiology is the identification of the mechanisms by which protein misfolding leads to cellular toxicity. Many neurodegenerative disorders, in which aberrant protein conformers aggregate into pathological inclusions, present the chronic activation of the PERK branch of the unfolded protein response. The adaptive effects of the PERK pathway include reduction of translation by transient inhibition of eIF2α and antioxidant protein production via induction of Nrf2 transcription factor. In contrast, PERK prolonged activation leads to sustained reduction in protein synthesis and induction of cell death pathways. To further investigate the role of the PERK pathway in neurodegenerative disorders, we focused on Down syndrome (DS), in which aging confers a high risk of Alzheimer disease (AD). By investigating human DS frontal cortices, we found early and sustained PERK activation associated with the induction of eIF2α and ATF4 downstream signals. We also observed that the Nrf2 response is uncoupled from PERK and its antioxidant effects are repressed in a mechanism implicating the transcription repressor Bach1. The pharmacological inhibition of PERK in DS mice reduced eIF2α-related translational repression and promoted Nrf2 nuclear translocation, favoring the rescue of Nrf2/Bach1 imbalance. The further analysis of peripheral cells from living DS individuals provided strong support of the pathological link between PERK and trisomy 21. Our results suggest that failure to regulate the PERK pathway is a peculiar characteristic of DS pathology and it may represent an essential step to promote cellular dysfunction, which actively contributes in the brain to the early development of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Lanzillotta
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli", Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Zuliani
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli", Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Tramutola
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli", Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenio Barone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli", Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Blarzino
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli", Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Folgiero
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and of Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Caforio
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli", Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and of Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Diletta Valentini
- Pediatric and Infectious Disease Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Villani
- Pediatric and Infectious Disease Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Franco Locatelli
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and of Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy; Department of Pediatrics, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - D Allan Butterfield
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA; Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Elizabeth Head
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Marzia Perluigi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli", Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Jose F Abisambra
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Fabio Di Domenico
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli", Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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10
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Tramutola A, Lanzillotta C, Di Domenico F, Head E, Butterfield DA, Perluigi M, Barone E. Brain insulin resistance triggers early onset Alzheimer disease in Down syndrome. Neurobiol Dis 2020; 137:104772. [PMID: 31987911 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2020.104772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of insulin signaling pathway with reduced downstream neuronal survival and plasticity mechanisms is a fundamental abnormality observed in Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain. This phenomenon, known as brain insulin resistance, is associated with poor cognitive performance and is driven by the uncoupling of insulin receptor (IR) from its direct substrate (IRS1). Considering that Down syndrome (DS) and AD neuropathology share many common features, we investigated metabolic aspects of neurodegeneration, i.e., brain insulin resistance, in DS and whether it would contribute to early onset AD in DS population. Changes of levels and activation of main brain proteins belonging to the insulin signaling pathway (i.e., IR, IRS1, PTEN, GSK3β, PKCζ, AS160, GLUT4) were evaluated. Furthermore, we analyzed whether changes of these proteins were associated with alterations of: (i) proteins regulating brain energy metabolism; (ii) APP cleavage; and (ii) regulation of synaptic plasticity mechanisms in post-mortem brain samples collected from people with DS before and after the development of AD pathology (DSAD) compared with their age-matched controls. We found that DS cases were characterized by key markers of brain insulin resistance (reduced IR and increased IRS1 inhibition) early in life. Furthermore, downstream from IRS1, an overall uncoupling among the proteins of insulin signaling was observed. Dysregulated brain insulin signaling was associated with reduced hexokinase II (HKII) levels and proteins associated with mitochondrial complexes levels as well as with reduced levels of syntaxin in DS cases. Tellingly, these alterations precede the development of AD neuropathology and clinical presentations in DS. We propose that markers of brain insulin resistance rise earlier with age in DS compared with the general population and may contribute to the cognitive impairment associated with the early development of AD in DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Tramutola
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Chiara Lanzillotta
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Fabio Di Domenico
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Elizabeth Head
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - D Allan Butterfield
- Department of Chemistry, Markey Cancer Center, Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506-0055, USA
| | - Marzia Perluigi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy.
| | - Eugenio Barone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy.
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Tayebati SK, Cecchi A, Martinelli I, Carboni E, Amenta F. Pharmacotherapy of Down’s Syndrome: When and Which? CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS 2020; 18:750-757. [DOI: 10.2174/1871527318666191114092924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
:
Down Syndrome (DS) is an essential genetic disease that involves many other body systems
along with cerebral functions. The postnatal approach to treat this genetic disease includes intervention
on various related disorders (e.g., heart failure, respiratory, oral, ear, and hearing disorders). However,
different proposed treatments do not significantly improve the quality of life of these subjects. Another
approach to the treatment of DS considering the possibility to intervene on the embryo was recently
introduced. As of this, the current study has reviewed different outcomes regarding DS treatment in an
animal model, namely the Ts65Dn mouse. The obtained results encouraged spending more time, efforts,
and resources in this field. Besides, various treatment strategies were tried to include genetic
modification, treatment with vasoactive intestinal peptide derivatives or fluoxetine. However, the main
obstacle to the use of these possible treatments is the ethical issues it raises. The progression of the
pregnancy in spite of awareness that DS affects the unborn and prenatal treatment of DS injured embryo
are relevant dilemmas. Thus, talented researchers should spend more efforts to improve the quality
of life for people affected by DS, which will allow probably a better approach to the ethical issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed K. Tayebati
- School of Medicinal Sciences and Health Products, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | | | - Ilenia Martinelli
- School of Medicinal Sciences and Health Products, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Elisa Carboni
- Regional Centre for Prenatal Diagnosis, Loreto, Italy
| | - Francesco Amenta
- School of Medicinal Sciences and Health Products, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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Lauterborn JC, Schultz MN, Le AA, Amani M, Friedman AE, Leach PT, Gall CM, Lynch GS, Crawley JN. Spaced training improves learning in Ts65Dn and Ube3a mouse models of intellectual disabilities. Transl Psychiatry 2019; 9:166. [PMID: 31182707 PMCID: PMC6557858 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-019-0495-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Benefits of distributed learning strategies have been extensively described in the human literature, but minimally investigated in intellectual disability syndromes. We tested the hypothesis that training trials spaced apart in time could improve learning in two distinct genetic mouse models of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by intellectual impairments. As compared to training with massed trials, spaced training significantly improved learning in both the Ts65Dn trisomy mouse model of Down syndrome and the maternally inherited Ube3a mutant mouse model of Angelman syndrome. Spacing the training trials at 1 h intervals accelerated acquisition of three cognitive tasks by Ts65Dn mice: (1) object location memory, (2) novel object recognition, (3) water maze spatial learning. Further, (4) spaced training improved water maze spatial learning by Ube3a mice. In contrast, (5) cerebellar-mediated rotarod motor learning was not improved by spaced training. Corroborations in three assays, conducted in two model systems, replicated within and across two laboratories, confirm the strength of the findings. Our results indicate strong translational relevance of a behavioral intervention strategy for improving the standard of care in treating the learning difficulties that are characteristic and clinically intractable features of many neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Lauterborn
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - M N Schultz
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - A A Le
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - M Amani
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - A E Friedman
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
- Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - P T Leach
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
- Biogen Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - C M Gall
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - G S Lynch
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - J N Crawley
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
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13
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Ren E, Roncacé V, Trazzi S, Fuchs C, Medici G, Gennaccaro L, Loi M, Galvani G, Ye K, Rimondini R, Aicardi G, Ciani E. Functional and Structural Impairments in the Perirhinal Cortex of a Mouse Model of CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder Are Rescued by a TrkB Agonist. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:169. [PMID: 31114483 PMCID: PMC6503158 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00169] [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: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) deficiency disorder (CDD) is a severe X-linked neurodevelopmental encephalopathy caused by mutations in the CDKL5 gene and characterized by early-onset epilepsy and intellectual and motor impairments. No cure is currently available for CDD patients, as limited knowledge of the pathology has hindered the development of therapeutics. Cdkl5 knockout (KO) mouse models, recently created to investigate the role of CDKL5 in the etiology of CDD, recapitulate various features of the disorder. Previous studies have shown alterations in synaptic plasticity and dendritic pattern in the cerebral cortex and in the hippocampus, but the knowledge of the molecular substrates underlying these alterations is still limited. Here, we have examined for the first time synaptic function and plasticity, dendritic morphology, and signal transduction pathways in the perirhinal cortex (PRC) of this mouse model. Being interconnected with a wide range of cortical and subcortical structures and involved in various cognitive processes, PRC provides a very interesting framework for examining how CDKL5 mutation leads to deficits at the synapse, circuit, and behavioral level. We found that long-term potentiation (LTP) was impaired, and that the TrkB/PLCγ1 pathway could be mechanistically involved in this alteration. PRC neurons in mutant mice showed a reduction in dendritic length, dendritic branches, PSD-95-positive puncta, GluA2-AMPA receptor levels, and spine density and maturation. These functional and structural deficits were associated with impairment in visual recognition memory. Interestingly, an in vivo treatment with a TrkB agonist (the 7,8-DHF prodrug R13) to trigger the TrkB/PLCγ1 pathway rescued defective LTP, dendritic pattern, PSD-95 and GluA2-AMPA receptor levels, and restored visual recognition memory in Cdkl5 KO mice. Present findings demonstrate a critical role of TrkB signaling in the synaptic development alterations due to CDKL5 mutation, and suggest the possibility of TrkB-targeted pharmacological interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Ren
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Roncacé
- Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefania Trazzi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudia Fuchs
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giorgio Medici
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Gennaccaro
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Manuela Loi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Galvani
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Keqiang Ye
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Roberto Rimondini
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giorgio Aicardi
- Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Interdepartmental Center "Luigi Galvani" for Integrated Studies of Bioinformatics, Biophysics and Biocomplexity, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Ciani
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Zorrilla de San Martin J, Delabar JM, Bacci A, Potier MC. GABAergic over-inhibition, a promising hypothesis for cognitive deficits in Down syndrome. Free Radic Biol Med 2018; 114:33-39. [PMID: 28993272 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 10/01/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS), also known as trisomy 21, is the most common genetic cause of intellectual disability. It is also a model human disease for exploring consequences of gene dosage imbalance on complex phenotypes. Learning and memory impairments linked to intellectual disabilities in DS could result from synaptic plasticity deficits and excitatory-inhibitory alterations leading to changes in neuronal circuitry in the brain of affected individuals. Increasing number of studies in mouse and cellular models converge towards the assumption that excitatory-inhibitory imbalance occurs in DS, likely early during development. Thus increased inhibition appears to be a common trend that could explain synaptic and circuit disorganization. Interestingly using several potent pharmacological tools, preclinical studies strongly demonstrated that cognitive deficits could be restored in mouse models of DS. Clinical trials have not yet provided robust data for therapeutic application and additional studies are needed. Here we review the literature and our own published work emphasizing the over-inhibition hypothesis in DS and their links with gene dosage imbalance paving the way for future basic and clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Zorrilla de San Martin
- INSERM U1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06 UMRS 1127, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, ICM, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Maurice Delabar
- INSERM U1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06 UMRS 1127, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, ICM, Paris, France
| | - Alberto Bacci
- INSERM U1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06 UMRS 1127, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, ICM, Paris, France
| | - Marie-Claude Potier
- INSERM U1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06 UMRS 1127, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, ICM, Paris, France.
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15
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Lowe SA, Hodge JJL, Usowicz MM. A third copy of the Down syndrome cell adhesion molecule (Dscam) causes synaptic and locomotor dysfunction in Drosophila. Neurobiol Dis 2017; 110:93-101. [PMID: 29196216 PMCID: PMC5773243 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2017.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Revised: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) is caused by triplication of chromosome 21 (HSA21). It is characterised by intellectual disability and impaired motor coordination that arise from changes in brain volume, structure and function. However, the contribution of each HSA21 gene to these various phenotypes and to the causal alterations in neuronal and synaptic structure and function are largely unknown. Here we have investigated the effect of overexpression of the HSA21 gene DSCAM (Down syndrome cell adhesion molecule), on glutamatergic synaptic transmission and motor coordination, using Drosophila expressing three copies of Dscam1. Electrophysiological recordings of miniature and evoked excitatory junction potentials at the glutamatergic neuromuscular junction of Drosophila larvae showed that the extra copy of Dscam1 changed the properties of spontaneous and electrically-evoked transmitter release and strengthened short-term synaptic depression during high-frequency firing of the motor nerve. Behavioural analyses uncovered impaired locomotor coordination despite preserved gross motor function. This work identifies DSCAM as a candidate causative gene in DS that is sufficient to modify synaptic transmission and synaptic plasticity and cause a DS behavioural phenotype. Drosophila expressing a third copy of Dscam have altered neuromuscular transmission. Drosophila expressing a third copy of Dscam have deficits in locomotor coordination. Drosophila are a powerful system for studying single-gene effects in Down syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon A Lowe
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - James J L Hodge
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK.
| | - Maria M Usowicz
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK.
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