1
|
Streng ML. The bidirectional relationship between the cerebellum and seizure networks: a double-edged sword. Curr Opin Behav Sci 2023; 54:101327. [PMID: 38800711 PMCID: PMC11126210 DOI: 10.1016/j.cobeha.2023.101327] [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] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Epilepsy is highly prevalent and notoriously pharmacoresistant. New therapeutic interventions are urgently needed, both for preventing the seizures themselves as well as negative outcomes and comorbidities associated with chronic epilepsy. While the cerebellum is not traditionally associated with epilepsy or seizures, research over the past decade has outlined the cerebellum as a brain region that is uniquely suited for both therapeutic needs. This review discusses our current understanding of the cerebellum as a key node within seizure networks, capable of both attenuating seizures in several animal models, and conversely, prone to altered structure and function in chronic epilepsy. Critical next steps are to advance therapeutic modulation of the cerebellum more towards translation, and to provide a more comprehensive characterization of how the cerebellum is impacted by chronic epilepsy, in order to subvert negative outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M L Streng
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Streng ML, Froula JM, Krook-Magnuson E. The cerebellum's understated role and influences in the epilepsies. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 183:106160. [PMID: 37209926 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106160] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 1 in 26 people will develop epilepsy in their lifetime, but current treatment options leave as many as half of all epilepsy patients with uncontrolled seizures. In addition to the burden of the seizures themselves, chronic epilepsy can be associated with cognitive deficits, structural changes, and devastating negative outcomes such as sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Thus, major challenges in epilepsy research surround the need to both develop new therapeutic targets for intervention as well as shed light on the mechanisms by which chronic epilepsy can lead to comorbidities and negative outcomes. Despite not being traditionally associated with epilepsy or seizures, the cerebellum has emerged as not only a brain region that can serve as an important target for seizure control, but one that may also be profoundly impacted by chronic epilepsy. Here, we discuss targeting the cerebellum for potential therapeutic intervention and discuss pathway insights gained from recent optogenetic studies. We then review observations of cerebellar alterations during seizures and in chronic epilepsy, as well as the potential for the cerebellum to be a seizure focus. Cerebellar alterations in epilepsy may be critical to patient outcomes, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive understanding and appreciation of the cerebellum in the epilepsies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martha L Streng
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
| | - Jessica M Froula
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Surina NM, Fedotova IB, Nikolaev GM, Grechenko VV, Gankovskaya LV, Ogurtsova AD, Poletaeva II. Neuroinflammation in Pathogenesis of Audiogenic Epilepsy: Altered Proinflammatory Cytokine Levels in the Rats of Krushinsky-Molodkina Seizure-Prone Strain. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2023; 88:481-490. [PMID: 37080934 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297923040041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation plays an important role in epileptogenesis, however, most studies are performed using pharmacological models of epilepsy, while there are only few data available for non-invasive, including genetic, models. The levels of a number of pro-inflammatory cytokines were examined in the Krushinsky-Molodkina (KM) rat strain with high audiogenic epilepsy (AE) proneness (intense tonic seizure fit in response to loud sound) and in the control strain "0" (not predisposed to AE) using multiplex immunofluorescence magnetic assay (MILLIPLEX map Kit). Cytokine levels were determined in the dorsal striatum tissue and in the brain stem. Background levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in the dorsal striatum of the KM rats were significantly lower than in the rats "0" (by 32.31, 27.84, and 38.87%, respectively, p < 0.05, 0.05, and 0.01), whereas no inter-strain differences in the levels of these metabolites were detected in the brain stem in the "background" state. Four hours after sound exposure, the TNF-α level in the dorsal striatum of the KM rats was significantly lower (by 38.34%, p < 0.01) than in the "0" rats. In the KM rats, the dorsal striatal levels of IL-1β and IL-6 were significantly higher after the sound exposure and subsequent seizure fit, compared to the background (35.29 and 50.21% increase, p < 0.05, 0.01, respectively). In the background state the IL-2 level in the KM rats was not detected, whereas after audiogenic seizures its level was 14.01 pg/ml (significant difference, p < 0.01). In the KM rats the brain stem levels of IL-1β and TNF-α after audiogenic seizures were significantly lower than in the background (13.23 and 23.44% decrease, respectively, p < 0.05). In the rats of the "0" strain, the levels of cytokines in the dorsal striatum after the action of sound (which did not induce AE seizures) were not different from those of the background, while in the brain stem of the "0" strain the levels of IL-1β were lower than in the background (40.28%, p < 0.01). Thus, the differences between the background levels of cytokines and those after the action of sound were different in the rats with different proneness to AE. These data suggest involvement of the analyzed cytokines in pathophysiology of the seizure state, namely in AE seizures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia M Surina
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119234, Russia.
| | - Irina B Fedotova
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119234, Russia
| | - Georgy M Nikolaev
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119234, Russia
| | | | | | | | - Inga I Poletaeva
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119234, Russia.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Inherited pain hypersensitivity and increased anxiety-like behaviors are associated with genetic epilepsy in Wistar Audiogenic Rats: Short- and long-term effects of acute and chronic seizures on nociception and anxiety. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 141:109160. [PMID: 36907082 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Anxiety and pain hypersensitivity are neurobehavioral comorbidities commonly reported by patients with epilepsies, and preclinical models are suitable to investigate the neurobiology of behavioral and neuropathological alterations associated with these epilepsy-related comorbidities. This work aimed to characterize endogenous alterations in nociceptive threshold and anxiety-like behaviors in the Wistar Audiogenic Rat (WAR) model of genetic epilepsy. We also assessed the effects of acute and chronic seizures on anxiety and nociception. WARs from acute and chronic seizure protocols were divided into two groups to assess short- and long-term changes in anxiety (1 day or 15 days after seizures, respectively). To assess anxiety-like behaviors, the laboratory animals were submitted to the open field, light-dark box, and elevated plus maze tests. The von Frey, acetone, and hot plate tests were used to measure the endogenous nociception in seizure-free WARs, and postictal antinociception was recorded at 10, 30, 60, 120, 180 min, and 24 h after seizures. Seizure-free WARs presented increased anxiety-like behaviors and pain hypersensitivity, displaying mechanical and thermal allodynia (to heat and cold stimuli) in comparison to nonepileptic Wistar rats. Potent postictal antinociception that persisted for 120 to 180 min was detected after acute and chronic seizures. Additionally, acute and chronic seizures have magnified the expression of anxiety-like behaviors when assessed at 1 day and 15 days after seizures. Behavioral analysis indicated more severe and persistent anxiogenic-like alterations in WARs submitted to acute seizures. Therefore, WARs presented pain hypersensitivity and increased anxiety-like behaviors endogenously associated with genetic epilepsy. Acute and chronic seizures induced postictal antinociception in response to mechanical and thermal stimuli and increased anxiety-like behaviors when assessed 1 day and 15 days later. These findings support the presence of neurobehavioral alterations in subjects with epilepsy and shed light on the use of genetic models to characterize neuropathological and behavioral alterations associated with epilepsy.
Collapse
|
5
|
Froula JM, Hastings SD, Krook-Magnuson E. The little brain and the seahorse: Cerebellar-hippocampal interactions. Front Syst Neurosci 2023; 17:1158492. [PMID: 37034014 PMCID: PMC10076554 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2023.1158492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a growing appreciation for the cerebellum beyond its role in motor function and accumulating evidence that the cerebellum and hippocampus interact across a range of brain states and behaviors. Acute and chronic manipulations, simultaneous recordings, and imaging studies together indicate coordinated coactivation and a bidirectional functional connectivity relevant for various physiological functions, including spatiotemporal processing. This bidirectional functional connectivity is likely supported by multiple circuit paths. It is also important in temporal lobe epilepsy: the cerebellum is impacted by seizures and epilepsy, and modulation of cerebellar circuitry can be an effective strategy to inhibit hippocampal seizures. This review highlights some of the recent key hippobellum literature.
Collapse
|
6
|
Nikolaishvili M, Nanobashvili Z, Mitagvaria N, Chkadua G, Museliani T, Jikia G, Bilanishvili I, Dondoladze K. The Level of Individual Biochemical Constants of the Brain of in the Krushinsky-Molodkina Inbred Rat Strain against the Background of Radon Inhalation During Epilepsy. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.10716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The elucidation of the mechanism of action of radon on antioxidant processes needs further research, however, based on the results of the experiment, it can be concluded that studies on experimental animals have shown that, while inhaling Tskhaltubo water, the phenomenon of hormesis develops.
Methods: we placed 10 experimental animals (KM rats) in Radon contained mineral water spa`s sauna. Inhalation of radon-water was administered through the nose, for 10 minutes, once a day, in conditions of high humidity (about 90%) for 10 days.
Results: Hormesis regulates oxidative processes in the brain due to the activation of antioxidants expressed in a decrease in existing epileptic seizures and is expressed in the activation of Na / K-ATPase and specific glutaminergic neurons of the "attack center" of the hypothalamus but also with the activation of the entire adaptive-compensatory system.
Conclusion: Inhalation of radon contained water can be considered as a method of treatment with an anticonvulsant effect confirmed by experimental studies.
Collapse
|
7
|
Klippel Zanona Q, Alves Marconi G, de Sá Couto Pereira N, Lazzarotto G, Luiza Ferreira Donatti A, Antonio Cortes de Oliveira J, Garcia-Cairasco N, Elisa Calcagnotto M. Absence-like seizures, cortical oscillations abnormalities and decreased anxiety-like behavior in Wistar Audiogenic Rats with cortical microgyria. Neuroscience 2022; 500:26-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.07.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
|
8
|
Lazarini-Lopes W, Silva-Cardoso GK, Leite-Panissi CRA, Garcia-Cairasco N. Increased TRPV1 Channels and FosB Protein Expression Are Associated with Chronic Epileptic Seizures and Anxiogenic-like Behaviors in a Preclinical Model of Temporal Lobe Epilepsy. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020416. [PMID: 35203625 PMCID: PMC8962263 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsies are neurological disorders characterized by chronic seizures and their related neuropsychiatric comorbidities, such as anxiety. The Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid type-1 (TRPV1) channel has been implicated in the modulation of seizures and anxiety-like behaviors in preclinical models. Here, we investigated the impact of chronic epileptic seizures in anxiety-like behavior and TRPV1 channels expression in a genetic model of epilepsy, the Wistar Audiogenic Rat (WAR) strain. WARs were submitted to audiogenic kindling (AK), a preclinical model of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and behavioral tests were performed in the open-field (OF), and light-dark box (LDB) tests 24 h after AK. WARs displayed increased anxiety-like behavior and TRPV1R expression in the hippocampal CA1 area and basolateral amygdala nucleus (BLA) when compared to control Wistar rats. Chronic seizures increased anxiety-like behaviors and TRPV1 and FosB expression in limbic and brainstem structures involved with epilepsy and anxiety comorbidity, such as the hippocampus, superior colliculus, and periaqueductal gray matter. Therefore, these results highlight previously unrecognized alterations in TRPV1 expression in brain structures involved with TLE and anxiogenic-like behaviors in a genetic model of epilepsy, the WAR strain, supporting an important role of TRPV1 in the modulation of neurological disorders and associated neuropsychiatric comorbidities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Willian Lazarini-Lopes
- Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences Department, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, Brazil;
| | - Gleice Kelli Silva-Cardoso
- Psychology Department, Faculty of Philosophy, Science, and Letters, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-901, Brazil; (G.K.S.-C.); (C.R.A.L.-P.)
| | - Christie Ramos Andrade Leite-Panissi
- Psychology Department, Faculty of Philosophy, Science, and Letters, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-901, Brazil; (G.K.S.-C.); (C.R.A.L.-P.)
| | - Norberto Garcia-Cairasco
- Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences Department, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, Brazil;
- Physiology Department, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine and Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences Department, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, Brazil
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Fedotova IB, Surina NM, Nikolaev GM, Revishchin AV, Poletaeva II. Rodent Brain Pathology, Audiogenic Epilepsy. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9111641. [PMID: 34829870 PMCID: PMC8615954 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111641] [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: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The review presents data which provides evidence for the internal relationship between the stages of rodent audiogenic seizures and post-ictal catalepsy with the general pattern of animal reaction to the dangerous stimuli and/or situation. The wild run stage of audiogenic seizure fit could be regarded as an intense panic reaction, and this view found support in numerous experimental data. The phenomenon of audiogenic epilepsy probably attracted the attention of physiologists as rodents are extremely sensitive to dangerous sound stimuli. The seizure proneness in this group shares common physiological characteristics and depends on animal genotype. This concept could be the new platform for the study of epileptogenesis mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina B. Fedotova
- Department of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia; (I.B.F.); (N.M.S.); (G.M.N.)
| | - Natalia M. Surina
- Department of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia; (I.B.F.); (N.M.S.); (G.M.N.)
| | - Georgy M. Nikolaev
- Department of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia; (I.B.F.); (N.M.S.); (G.M.N.)
| | | | - Inga I. Poletaeva
- Department of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia; (I.B.F.); (N.M.S.); (G.M.N.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Neckel ND, Dai H, Hanckel J, Lee Y, Albanese C, Rodriguez O. Skilled reach training enhances robotic gait training to restore overground locomotion following spinal cord injury in rats. Behav Brain Res 2021; 414:113490. [PMID: 34358574 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Rehabilitative training has been shown to improve motor function following spinal cord injury (SCI). Unfortunately, these gains are primarily task specific; where reach training only improves reaching, step training only improves stepping and stand training only improves standing. More troublesome is the tendency that the improvement in a trained task often comes at the expense of an untrained task. However, the task specificity of training does not preclude the benefits of combined rehabilitative training. Here we show that robot assisted gait training alone can partially reduce the deficits in unassisted overground locomotion following a C4/5 overhemisection injury in rats. When robot-assisted gait training is done in conjunction with skilled forelimb training, we observe a much greater level of recovery of unassisted overground locomotion. In order to provide reach training that would not interfere with our robotic gait training schedule, we prompted rats to increase the use of their forelimbs by replacing the standard overhead feeder with a custom made, deep welled hopper that dispensed nutritionally equivalent small milled pellets. We speculate that the increase in recovery from combined training is due to a more robust interneuronal relay network around the injury site. in vivo manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the spinal cord indicated that there was no increase in the cellular activity, however ex vivo diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) suggested an increase in collateralization around the injury site in rats that received both reach training and robot assisted gait training.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan D Neckel
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University, United States; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Georgetown University, United States.
| | - Haining Dai
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University, United States
| | - John Hanckel
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University, United States
| | - Yichien Lee
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, United States; Center for Translational Imaging, Georgetown University, United States
| | - Christopher Albanese
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, United States; Center for Translational Imaging, Georgetown University, United States
| | - Olga Rodriguez
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, United States; Center for Translational Imaging, Georgetown University, United States
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder, but current treatment options provide limited efficacy and carry the potential for problematic adverse effects. There is an immense need to develop new therapeutic interventions in epilepsy, and targeting areas outside the seizure focus for neuromodulation has shown therapeutic value. While not traditionally associated with epilepsy, anatomical, clinical, and electrophysiological studies suggest the cerebellum can play a role in seizure networks, and importantly, may be a potential therapeutic target for seizure control. However, previous interventions targeting the cerebellum in both preclinical and clinical studies have produced mixed effects on seizures. These inconsistent results may be due in part to the lack of specificity inherent with open-loop electrical stimulation interventions. More recent studies, using more targeted closed-loop optogenetic approaches, suggest the possibility of robust seizure inhibition via cerebellar modulation for a range of seizure types. Therefore, while the mechanisms of cerebellar inhibition of seizures have yet to be fully elucidated, the cerebellum should be thoroughly revisited as a potential target for therapeutic intervention in epilepsy. This article is part of the Special Issue "NEWroscience 2018.
Collapse
|
12
|
Dos Santos RR, Bernardino TC, da Silva MCM, de Oliveira ACP, Drumond LE, Rosa DV, Massensini AR, Moraes MFD, Doretto MC, Romano-Silva MA, Reis HJ. Neurochemical abnormalities in the hippocampus of male rats displaying audiogenic seizures, a genetic model of epilepsy. Neurosci Lett 2021; 761:136123. [PMID: 34293418 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy is a disorder characterized by recurrent seizures that affects 1% of the population. However, the neurochemical alterations observed in epilepsy are not fully understood. There are different animal models of epilepsy, such as genetic or drug induced. In the present study, we utilize Wistar Audiogenic Rats (WAR), a murine strain that develops seizures in response to high intensity audio stimulation, in order to investigate abnormalities in glutamatergic and GABAergic systems. METHODS Synaptosomes and glial plasmalemmal vesicles were prepared from hippocampus and cortex, respectively. Glutamate and GABA release and uptake were assayed by monitoring the fluorescence and using L-[3H]-radiolabeled compounds. Glutamate and calcium concentration in the synaptosomes were also measured. The expression of neuronal calcium sensor 1 (NCS-1) was determined by western blot. RESULTS Glutamate and GABA release evoked by KCl was decreased in WAR compared to control Wistar rats. Calcium independent release was not considerably different in both groups. The total amount of glutamate of synaptosomes, as well as glutamate uptake by synaptosomes and GPV were also decreased in WAR in comparison with the controls. In addition, [Ca2+]i of hippocampal synaptosomes, as well as NCS-1 expression in the hippocampus, were increased in WAR in comparison with controls. CONCLUSION In conclusion, our results suggest that WAR have important alterations in the glutamatergic and GABAergic pathways, as well as an increased expression of NCS-1 in the hippocampus and inferior colliculus. These alterations may be linked to the spreading of hyperexcitability and recruitment of various brain regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Ribeiro Dos Santos
- Departamento de Saúde Mental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Av Alfredo Balena 190, CEP 30130-100 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil; Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Av Antonio Carlos 6627, Campus Pampulha, CEP 30190-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Túlio C Bernardino
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Av Antonio Carlos 6627, Campus Pampulha, CEP 30190-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Maria Carolina Machado da Silva
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Av Antonio Carlos 6627, Campus Pampulha, CEP 30190-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Antônio C P de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Av Antonio Carlos 6627, Campus Pampulha, CEP 30190-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Luciana E Drumond
- Núcleo de Neurociências, Departamento de Biofísica e Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Av Antonio Carlos 6627, Campus Pampulha, CEP 30190-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Daniela V Rosa
- Departamento de Saúde Mental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Av Alfredo Balena 190, CEP 30130-100 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - André R Massensini
- Núcleo de Neurociências, Departamento de Biofísica e Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Av Antonio Carlos 6627, Campus Pampulha, CEP 30190-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Márcio F D Moraes
- Núcleo de Neurociências, Departamento de Biofísica e Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Av Antonio Carlos 6627, Campus Pampulha, CEP 30190-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Maria C Doretto
- Núcleo de Neurociências, Departamento de Biofísica e Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Av Antonio Carlos 6627, Campus Pampulha, CEP 30190-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Marco A Romano-Silva
- Departamento de Saúde Mental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Av Alfredo Balena 190, CEP 30130-100 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Helton J Reis
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. Av Antonio Carlos 6627, Campus Pampulha, CEP 30190-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Chronic cannabidiol (CBD) administration induces anticonvulsant and antiepileptogenic effects in a genetic model of epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 119:107962. [PMID: 33887676 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.107962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a marijuana compound implicated in epilepsy treatment in animal models and pharmacoresistant patients. However, little is known about chronic CBD administration's effects in chronic models of seizures, especially regarding its potential antiepileptogenic effects. In the present study, we combined a genetic model of epilepsy (the Wistar Audiogenic Rat strain - WARs), a chronic protocol of seizures (the audiogenic kindling - AuK), quantitative and sequential behavioral analysis (neuroethology), and microscopy imaging to analyze the effects of chronic CBD administration in a genetic model of epilepsy. The acute audiogenic seizure is characterized by tonic-clonic seizures and intense brainstem activity. However, during the AuK WARs can develop limbic seizures associated with the recruitment of forebrain and limbic structures. Here, chronic CBD administration, twice a day, attenuated brainstem, tonic-clonic seizures, prevented limbic recruitment, and suppressed limbic (kindled) seizures, suggesting CBD antiepileptogenic effects. Additionally, CBD prevented chronic neuronal hyperactivity, suppressing FosB immunostaining in the brainstem (inferior colliculus and periaqueductal gray matter) and forebrain (basolateral amygdala nucleus and piriform cortex), structures associated with tonic-clonic and limbic seizures, respectively. Chronic seizures increased cannabinoid receptors type 1 (CB1R) immunostaining in the hippocampus and the BLA, while CBD administration prevented changes in CB1R expression induced by the AuK. The neuroethological analysis provided details about CBD's protective effects against brainstem and limbic seizures associated with FosB expression. Our results strongly suggest chronic CBD anticonvulsant and antiepileptogenic effects associated with reduced chronic neuronal activity and modulation of CB1R expression. We also support the chronic use of CBD for epilepsies treatments.
Collapse
|
14
|
Lazarini-Lopes W, da Silva-Júnior RMP, Servilha-Menezes G, Do Val-da Silva RA, Garcia-Cairasco N. Cannabinoid Receptor Type 1 (CB1R) Expression in Limbic Brain Structures After Acute and Chronic Seizures in a Genetic Model of Epilepsy. Front Behav Neurosci 2020; 14:602258. [PMID: 33408620 PMCID: PMC7779524 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2020.602258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is related to several physiological processes, associated to the modulation of brain excitability, with impact in the expression of susceptibility and control of epileptic seizures. The cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) is widely expressed in the brain, especially in forebrain limbic structures. Changes in CB1R expression are associated with epileptic seizures in animal models and humans. The Wistar Audiogenic Rat (WAR) strain is a genetic model of epilepsy capable of mimicking tonic-clonic and limbic seizures in response to intense sound stimulation. The WAR strain presents several behavioral and physiological alterations associated with seizure susceptibility, but the ECS has never been explored in this strain. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to characterize CB1R expression in forebrain limbic structures important to limbic seizure expression in WARs. We used a detailed anatomical analysis to assess the effects of acute and chronic audiogenic seizures on CB1R expression in several layers and regions of hippocampus and amygdala. WARs showed increased CB1R immunostaining in the inner molecular layer of the hippocampus, when compared to control Wistar rats. Acute and chronic audiogenic seizures increased CB1R immunostaining in several regions of the dorsal hippocampus and amygdala of WARs. Also, changes in CB1R expression in the amygdala, but not in the hippocampus, were associated with limbic recruitment and limbic seizure severity in WARs. Our results suggest that endogenous alterations in CB1R immunostaining in WARs could be associated with genetic susceptibility to audiogenic seizures. We also demonstrated CB1R neuroplastic changes associated with acute and chronic seizures in the amygdala and hippocampus. Moreover, the present study brings important information regarding CB1R and seizure susceptibility in a genetic model of seizures and supports the relationship between ECS and epilepsy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Willian Lazarini-Lopes
- Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences Department, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Neurophysiology and Experimental Neuroethology Laboratory, Physiology Department, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Rui M P da Silva-Júnior
- Neurophysiology and Experimental Neuroethology Laboratory, Physiology Department, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Department of Internal Medicine, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Servilha-Menezes
- Neurophysiology and Experimental Neuroethology Laboratory, Physiology Department, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Raquel A Do Val-da Silva
- Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences Department, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Norberto Garcia-Cairasco
- Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences Department, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,Neurophysiology and Experimental Neuroethology Laboratory, Physiology Department, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Santos VR, Hammack R, Wicker E, N'Gouemo P, Forcelli PA. Divergent Effects of Systemic and Intracollicular CB Receptor Activation Against Forebrain and Hindbrain-Evoked Seizures in Rats. Front Behav Neurosci 2020; 14:595315. [PMID: 33328922 PMCID: PMC7718031 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2020.595315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid (CB) receptor agonists are of growing interest as targets for anti-seizure therapies. Here we examined the effect of systemic administration of the CB receptor agonist WIN 55,212-2 (WIN) against audiogenic seizures (AGSs) in the Genetically Epilepsy Prone Rat (GEPR)-3 strain, and against seizures evoked focally from the Area Tempestas (AT). We compared these results to the effect of focal administration of the CB1/2 receptor agonist CP 55940 into the deep layers of the superior colliculus (DLSC), a brain site expressing CB1 receptors. While systemic administration of WIN dose-dependently decreased AGS in GEPR-3s, it was without effect in the AT model. By contrast, intra-DLSC infusion of CP 55940 decreased seizures in both models. To determine if the effects of systemic WIN were dependent upon activation of CB1 receptors in the DSLC, we next microinjected the CB1 receptor antagonist SR141716, before WIN systemic treatment, and tested animals for AGS susceptibility. The pretreatment of the DLSC with SR141716 was without effect on its own and did not alter the anti-convulsant action of WIN systemic administration. Thus, while CB receptors in the DLSC are a potential site of anticonvulsant action, they are not necessary for the effects of systemically administered CB agonists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor R Santos
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States.,Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Robert Hammack
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States.,Department of Cellular and Integrated Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Evan Wicker
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Prosper N'Gouemo
- Department of Pediatrics, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States.,Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States.,Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Patrick A Forcelli
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States.,Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States.,Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Descending projections from the substantia nigra pars reticulata differentially control seizures. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:27084-27094. [PMID: 31843937 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1908176117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Three decades of studies have shown that inhibition of the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNpr) attenuates seizures, yet the circuits mediating this effect remain obscure. SNpr projects to the deep and intermediate layers of the superior colliculus (DLSC) and the pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN), but the contributions of these projections are unknown. To address this gap, we optogenetically silenced cell bodies within SNpr, nigrotectal terminals within DLSC, and nigrotegmental terminals within PPN. Inhibition of cell bodies in SNpr suppressed generalized seizures evoked by pentylenetetrazole (PTZ), partial seizures evoked from the forebrain, absence seizures evoked by gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), and audiogenic seizures in genetically epilepsy-prone rats. Strikingly, these effects were fully recapitulated by silencing nigrotectal projections. By contrast, silencing nigrotegmental terminals reduced only absence seizures and exacerbated seizures evoked by PTZ. These data underscore the broad-spectrum anticonvulsant efficacy of this circuit, and demonstrate that specific efferent projection pathways differentially control different seizure types.
Collapse
|
17
|
Streng ML, Krook-Magnuson E. Excitation, but not inhibition, of the fastigial nucleus provides powerful control over temporal lobe seizures. J Physiol 2019; 598:171-187. [PMID: 31682010 DOI: 10.1113/jp278747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS On-demand optogenetic inhibition of glutamatergic neurons in the fastigial nucleus of the cerebellum does not alter hippocampal seizures in a mouse model of temporal lobe epilepsy. In contrast, on-demand optogenetic excitation of glutamatergic neurons in the fastigial nucleus successfully inhibits hippocampal seizures. With this approach, even a single 50 ms pulse of light is able to significantly inhibit seizures. On-demand optogenetic excitation of glutamatergic fastigial neurons either ipsilateral or contralateral to the seizure focus is able to inhibit seizures. Selective excitation of glutamatergic nuclear neurons provides greater seizure inhibition than broadly exciting nuclear neurons without cell-type specificity. ABSTRACT Temporal lobe epilepsy is the most common form of epilepsy in adults, but current treatment options provide limited efficacy, leaving as many as one-third of patients with uncontrolled seizures. Recently, attention has shifted towards more closed-loop therapies for seizure control, and on-demand optogenetic modulation of the cerebellar cortex was shown to be highly effective at attenuating hippocampal seizures. Intriguingly, both optogenetic excitation and inhibition of cerebellar cortical output neurons, Purkinje cells, attenuated seizures. The mechanisms by which the cerebellum impacts seizures, however, are unknown. In the present study, we targeted the immediate downstream projection of vermal Purkinje cells - the fastigial nucleus - in order to determine whether increases and/or decreases in fastigial output can underlie seizure cessation. Though Purkinje cell input to fastigial neurons is inhibitory, direct optogenetic inhibition of the fastigial nucleus had no effect on seizure duration. Conversely, however, fastigial excitation robustly attenuated hippocampal seizures. Seizure cessation was achieved at multiple stimulation frequencies, regardless of laterality relative to seizure focus, and even with single light pulses. Seizure inhibition was greater when selectively targeting glutamatergic fastigial neurons than when an approach that lacked cell-type specificity was used. Together, these results suggest that stimulating excitatory neurons in the fastigial nucleus may be a promising approach for therapeutic intervention in temporal lobe epilepsy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martha L Streng
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Speidell AP, Demby T, Lee Y, Rodriguez O, Albanese C, Mandelblatt J, Rebeck GW. Development of a Human APOE Knock-in Mouse Model for Study of Cognitive Function After Cancer Chemotherapy. Neurotox Res 2019; 35:291-303. [PMID: 30284204 PMCID: PMC6333492 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-018-9954-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Revised: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-related cognitive impairment in breast cancer patients exposed to multi-agent chemotherapy regimens is associated with the apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4) allele. However, it is difficult to determine the effects of specific agents on cognitive impairment in human studies. We describe the development of a human APOE knock-in congenic C57BL/6J mouse model to study cancer-related cognitive impairment. Female APOE3 and APOE4 homozygous mice were either left untreated or treated with the most commonly used breast cancer therapeutic agent, doxorubicin. APOE3 and APOE4 mice had similar behaviors in exploratory and anxiety assays, which were affected transiently by doxorubicin treatment. Spatial learning and memory were measured in a Barnes maze: after 4 days of training, control APOE3 and APOE4 mice were able to escape with similar latencies. In contrast, doxorubicin-treated APOE4 mice had markedly impaired learning compared to doxorubicin-treated APOE3 mice at all time points. Voxel-based morphometry of magnetic resonance images revealed that doxorubicin treatment caused significant changes in the cortex and hippocampus of in both APOE3 and APOE4 mouse brains, but the differences were significantly greater in the APOE4 brains. The results indicate that doxorubicin-exposed APOE4 mice recapitulate key aspects of human cancer-related cognitive impairment. These data support the usefulness of this novel preclinical model for future elucidation of the genetic and molecular interactions of APOE genotype with chemotherapy; this model can also allow extension to prospective studies of older mice to study these interactions in the context of aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew P Speidell
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Tamar Demby
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Yichien Lee
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Olga Rodriguez
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | | | - G William Rebeck
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Cunha AOS, Ceballos CC, de Deus JL, Pena RFDO, de Oliveira JAC, Roque AC, Garcia-Cairasco N, Leão RM. Intrinsic and synaptic properties of hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons of the Wistar Audiogenic Rat (WAR) strain, a genetic model of epilepsy. Sci Rep 2018; 8:10412. [PMID: 29991737 PMCID: PMC6039528 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-28725-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the many studies focusing on epilepsy, a lot of the basic mechanisms underlying seizure susceptibility are mainly unclear. Here, we studied cellular electrical excitability, as well as excitatory and inhibitory synaptic neurotransmission of CA1 pyramidal neurons from the dorsal hippocampus of a genetic model of epilepsy, the Wistar Audiogenic Rat (WARs) in which limbic seizures appear after repeated audiogenic stimulation. We examined intrinsic properties of neurons, as well as EPSCs evoked by Schaffer-collateral stimulation in slices from WARs and Wistar parental strain. We also analyzed spontaneous IPSCs and quantal miniature inhibitory events. Our data show that even in the absence of previous seizures, GABAergic neurotransmission is reduced in the dorsal hippocampus of WARs. We observed a decrease in the frequency of IPSCs and mIPSCs. Moreover, mIPSCs of WARs had faster rise times, indicating that they probably arise from more proximal synapses. Finally, intrinsic membrane properties, firing and excitatory neurotransmission mediated by both NMDA and non-NMDA receptors are similar to the parental strain. Since GABAergic inhibition towards CA1 pyramidal neurons is reduced in WARs, the inhibitory network could be ineffective to prevent the seizure-dependent spread of hyperexcitation. These functional changes could make these animals more susceptible to the limbic seizures observed during the audiogenic kindling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Cesar Celis Ceballos
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.,Department of Physics, School of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Júnia Lara de Deus
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Felipe de Oliveira Pena
- Department of Physics, School of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Antonio Carlos Roque
- Department of Physics, School of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Norberto Garcia-Cairasco
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Maurício Leão
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Aguilar BL, Malkova L, N'Gouemo P, Forcelli PA. Genetically Epilepsy-Prone Rats Display Anxiety-Like Behaviors and Neuropsychiatric Comorbidities of Epilepsy. Front Neurol 2018; 9:476. [PMID: 29997563 PMCID: PMC6030811 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is associated with a variety of neuropsychiatric comorbidities, including both anxiety and depression. Despite high occurrences of depression and anxiety seen in human epilepsy populations, little is known about the etiology of these comorbidities. Experimental models of epilepsy provide a platform to disentangle the contribution of acute seizures, genetic predisposition, and underlying circuit pathologies to anxious and depressive phenotypes. Most studies to date have focused on comorbidities in acquired epilepsies; genetic models, however, allow for the assessment of affective phenotypes that occur prior to onset of recurrent seizures. Here, we tested male and female genetically epilepsy-prone rats (GEPR-3s) and Sprague-Dawley controls in a battery of tests sensitive to anxiety-like and depressive-like phenotypes. GEPR-3s showed increased anxiety-like behavior in the open field test, elevated plus maze, light-dark transition test, and looming threat test. Moreover, GEPR-3s showed impaired prepulse inhibition of the acoustic startle reflex, decreased sucrose preference index, and impaired novel object recognition memory. We also characterized defense behaviors in response to stimulation thresholds of deep and intermediate layers of the superior colliculus (DLSC), but found no difference between strains. In sum, GEPR-3s showed inherited anxiety, an effect that did not differ significantly between sexes. The anxiety phenotype in adult GEPR-3s suggests strong genetic influences that may underlie both the seizure disorder and the comorbidities seen in epilepsy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brittany L Aguilar
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States.,Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Ludise Malkova
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States.,Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Prosper N'Gouemo
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Patrick A Forcelli
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States.,Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States.,Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Umeoka EH, Eiras MC, Viana IG, Giorgi VS, Bueno A, Damasceno DC, Garcia-Cairasco N, Navarro PA. Maternal reproductive performance and fetal development of the Wistar Audiogenic Rat (WAR) strain. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2018; 65:87-94. [PMID: 29927665 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1483443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Wistar Audiogenic Rat (WAR) strain is an animal model for epilepsy studies, the chronic multifactorial disease that affects millions of people worldwide. The animals of this strain are genetically predisposed to sound-induced seizures, called audiogenic seizures, and have been used for many years in studies to understand the mechanisms involved in the epilepsies and their neuropsychiatric comorbidities, as well as the screening of potential anti-convulsant agents. Nevertheless, little is known about the reproductive characteristics of these animals. The main goal of this study was to characterize the female reproductive performance and the fetal growth of WARs in comparison to the Wistar rats, obtaining important information for physiology and behavioral studies, as well as for the preservation of the strain. The results indicated few differences between WAR and Wistar regarding the female reproductive performance. There was no significant difference in the number of pregnant females by mating, number of live births per female, number of cells per blastocyst, and several characteristics related to reproductive performance, such as pre- and post-implantation losses. However, significant differences were observed in birth weight and weight gain until weaning, with WAR animals presenting a body weight below Wistar at birth and reduced body weight gain during the lactation period. In addition, the WAR females showed lower body weight on the day 20 of pregnancy and a larger number of corpora lutea, when compared with those of Wistar animals. Thus, we conclude that although Wistar and WAR strains have few differences in their reproductive performance, which might impact future physiological life challenges or others experimentally induced procedures, it still is a very viable strain regarding reproduction. Abbreviations: CONCEA: National Council for the Control of Animal Experimentation; GEPR: genetically epilepsy-prone rats; WAR: Wistar Audiogenic Rat.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo H Umeoka
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil.,b Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences Department , Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil.,c Department of Physiology , Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Matheus C Eiras
- d Department of Genetics , Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Iara G Viana
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Vanessa S Giorgi
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Aline Bueno
- e Gynecology, Obstetrics and Mastology Postgraduate Course , Botucatu Medical School, Univ. Estadual Paulista-UNESP , Botucatu, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Débora C Damasceno
- e Gynecology, Obstetrics and Mastology Postgraduate Course , Botucatu Medical School, Univ. Estadual Paulista-UNESP , Botucatu, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Norberto Garcia-Cairasco
- b Neuroscience and Behavioral Sciences Department , Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil.,c Department of Physiology , Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Paula A Navarro
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Gauvin DV, Zimmermann ZJ, Yoder J, Harter M, Holdsworth D, Kilgus Q, May J, Dalton J, Baird TJ. A predictive index of biomarkers for ictogenesis from tier I safety pharmacology testing that may warrant tier II EEG studies. J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods 2018; 94:50-63. [PMID: 29751085 DOI: 10.1016/j.vascn.2018.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Three significant contributions to the field of safety pharmacology were recently published detailing the use of electroencephalography (EEG) by telemetry in a critical role in the successful evaluation of a compound during drug development (1] Authier, Delatte, Kallman, Stevens & Markgraf; JPTM 2016; 81:274-285; 2] Accardi, Pugsley, Forster, Troncy, Huang & Authier; JPTM; 81: 47-59; 3] Bassett, Troncy, Pouliot, Paquette, Ascaha, & Authier; JPTM 2016; 70: 230-240). These authors present a convincing case for monitoring neocortical biopotential waveforms (EEG, ECoG, etc) during preclinical toxicology studies as an opportunity for early identification of a central nervous system (CNS) risk during Investigational New Drug (IND) Enabling Studies. This review is about "ictogenesis" not "epileptogenesis". It is intended to characterize overt behavioral and physiological changes suggestive of drug-induced neurotoxicity/ictogenesis in experimental animals during Tier 1 safety pharmacology testing, prior to first dose administration in man. It is the presence of these predictive or comorbid biomarkers expressed during the requisite conduct of daily clinical or cage side observations, and in early ICH S7A Tier I CNS, pulmonary and cardiovascular safety study designs that should initiate an early conversation regarding Tier II inclusion of EEG monitoring. We conclude that there is no single definitive clinical marker for seizure liability but plasma exposures might add to set proper safety margins when clinical convulsions are observed. Even the observation of a study-related full tonic-clonic convulsion does not establish solid ground to require the financial and temporal investment of a full EEG study under the current regulatory standards. PREFATORY NOTE For purposes of this review, we have adopted the FDA term "sponsor" as it refers to any person who takes the responsibility for and initiates a nonclinical investigations of new molecular entities; FDA uses the term "sponsor" primarily in relation to investigational new drug application submissions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David V Gauvin
- Neurobehavioral Science and MPI Research (A Charles Rivers Company), Mattawan, MI, United States.
| | - Zachary J Zimmermann
- Neurobehavioral Science and MPI Research (A Charles Rivers Company), Mattawan, MI, United States
| | - Joshua Yoder
- Neurobehavioral Science and MPI Research (A Charles Rivers Company), Mattawan, MI, United States
| | - Marci Harter
- Safety Pharmacology, MPI Research (A Charles Rivers Company), Mattawan, MI, United States
| | - David Holdsworth
- Safety Pharmacology, MPI Research (A Charles Rivers Company), Mattawan, MI, United States
| | - Quinn Kilgus
- Safety Pharmacology, MPI Research (A Charles Rivers Company), Mattawan, MI, United States
| | - Jonelle May
- Safety Pharmacology, MPI Research (A Charles Rivers Company), Mattawan, MI, United States
| | - Jill Dalton
- Safety Pharmacology, MPI Research (A Charles Rivers Company), Mattawan, MI, United States
| | - Theodore J Baird
- Drug Safety Assessment, MPI Research (A Charles Rivers Company), Mattawan, MI, United States
| |
Collapse
|