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Cai P, Li W, Xu Y, Wang H. Drp1 and neuroinflammation: Deciphering the interplay between mitochondrial dynamics imbalance and inflammation in neurodegenerative diseases. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 198:106561. [PMID: 38857809 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction are closely intertwined with the pathophysiology of neurological disorders. Recent studies have elucidated profound alterations in mitochondrial dynamics across a spectrum of neurological disorders. Dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1) emerges as a pivotal regulator of mitochondrial fission, with its dysregulation disrupting mitochondrial homeostasis and fueling neuroinflammation, thereby exacerbating disease severity. In addition to its role in mitochondrial dynamics, DRP1 plays a crucial role in modulating inflammation-related pathways. This review synthesizes important functions of DRP1 in the central nervous system (CNS) and the impact of epigenetic modification on the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. The intricate interplay between neuroinflammation and DRP1 in microglia and astrocytes, central contributors to neuroinflammation, is expounded upon. Furthermore, the use of DRP1 inhibitors to influence the activation of microglia and astrocytes, as well as their involvement in processes such as mitophagy, mitochondrial oxidative stress, and calcium ion transport in CNS-mediated neuroinflammation, is scrutinized. The modulation of microglia to astrocyte crosstalk by DRP1 and its role in inflammatory neurodegeneration is also highlighted. Overall, targeting DRP1 presents a promising avenue for ameliorating neuroinflammation and enhancing the therapeutic management of neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiyang Cai
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Wuhao Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Ye Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Hui Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, Jiangsu, PR China..
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2
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Lin CY, Vanoverbeke V, Trent D, Willey K, Lee YS. The Spatiotemporal Expression of SOCS3 in the Brainstem and Spinal Cord of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Mice. Brain Sci 2024; 14:564. [PMID: 38928564 PMCID: PMC11201580 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14060564] [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: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by the progressive loss of motor neurons from the brain and spinal cord. The excessive neuroinflammation is thought to be a common determinant of ALS. Suppressor of cytokine signaling-3 (SOCS3) is pathologically upregulated after injury/diseases to negatively regulate a broad range of cytokines/chemokines that mediate inflammation; however, the role that SOCS3 plays in ALS pathogenesis has not been explored. Here, we found that SOCS3 protein levels were significantly increased in the brainstem of the superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1)-G93A ALS mice, which is negatively related to a progressive decline in motor function from the pre-symptomatic to the early symptomatic stage. Moreover, SOCS3 levels in both cervical and lumbar spinal cords of ALS mice were also significantly upregulated at the pre-symptomatic stage and became exacerbated at the early symptomatic stage. Concomitantly, astrocytes and microglia/macrophages were progressively increased and reactivated over time. In contrast, neurons were simultaneously lost in the brainstem and spinal cord examined over the course of disease progression. Collectively, SOCS3 was first found to be upregulated during ALS progression to directly relate to both increased astrogliosis and increased neuronal loss, indicating that SOCS3 could be explored to be as a potential therapeutic target of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Yi Lin
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, LRI, NB3-90, 9500 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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3
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Pandya VA, Patani R. The role of glial cells in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:381-450. [PMID: 38802179 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has traditionally been considered a neuron-centric disease. This view is now outdated, with increasing recognition of cell autonomous and non-cell autonomous contributions of central and peripheral nervous system glia to ALS pathomechanisms. With glial research rapidly accelerating, we comprehensively interrogate the roles of astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, ependymal cells, Schwann cells and satellite glia in nervous system physiology and ALS-associated pathology. Moreover, we highlight the inter-glial, glial-neuronal and inter-system polylogue which constitutes the healthy nervous system and destabilises in disease. We also propose classification based on function for complex glial reactive phenotypes and discuss the pre-requisite for integrative modelling to advance translation. Given the paucity of life-enhancing therapies currently available for ALS patients, we discuss the promising potential of harnessing glia in driving ALS therapeutic discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virenkumar A Pandya
- University College London Medical School, London, United Kingdom; The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Rickie Patani
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, University College London Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, United Kingdom.
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4
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Dócs K, Balázs A, Papp I, Szücs P, Hegyi Z. Reactive spinal glia convert 2-AG to prostaglandins to drive aberrant astroglial calcium signaling. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1382465. [PMID: 38784707 PMCID: PMC11112260 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1382465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The endogenous cannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) influences neurotransmission in the central nervous system mainly by activating type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1). Following its release, 2-AG is broken down by hydrolases to yield arachidonic acid, which may subsequently be metabolized by cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). COX-2 converts arachidonic acid and also 2-AG into prostanoids, well-known inflammatory and pro-nociceptive mediators. Here, using immunohistochemical and biochemical methods and pharmacological manipulations, we found that reactive spinal astrocytes and microglia increase the expression of COX-2 and the production of prostaglandin E2 when exposed to 2-AG. Both 2-AG and PGE2 evoke calcium transients in spinal astrocytes, but PGE2 showed 30% more efficacy and 55 times more potency than 2-AG. Unstimulated spinal dorsal horn astrocytes responded to 2-AG with calcium transients mainly through the activation of CB1. 2-AG induced exaggerated calcium transients in reactive astrocytes, but this increase in the frequency and area under the curve of calcium signals was only partially dependent on CB1. Instead, aberrant calcium transients were almost completely abolished by COX-2 inhibition. Our results suggest that both reactive spinal astrocytes and microglia perform an endocannabinoid-prostanoid switch to produce PGE2 at the expense of 2-AG. PGE2 in turn is responsible for the induction of aberrant astroglial calcium signals which, together with PGE2 production may play role in the development and maintenance of spinal neuroinflammation-associated disturbances such as central sensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Dócs
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Anita Balázs
- Department of Theoretical and Integrative Health Sciences, Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ildikó Papp
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Peter Szücs
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- HUN-REN-DE Neuroscience Research Group, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Hegyi
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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5
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Arora P, Trivedi R, Kumari M, Singh K, Sandhir R, D'Souza MM, Rana P. Altered DTI scalars in the hippocampus are associated with morphological and structural changes after traumatic brain injury. Brain Struct Funct 2024; 229:853-863. [PMID: 38381381 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-024-02758-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Blunt and diffuse injury is a highly prevalent form of traumatic brain injury (TBI) which can result in microstructural alterations in the brain. The blunt impact on the brain can affect the immediate contact region but can also affect the vulnerable regions like hippocampus, leading to functional impairment and long-lasting cognitive deficits. The hippocampus of the moderate weight drop injured male rats was longitudinally assessed for microstructural changes using in vivo MR imaging from 4 h to Day 30 post-injury (PI). The DTI analysis found a prominent decline in the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), radial diffusivity (RD), and axial diffusivity (AD) values after injury. The perturbed DTI scalars accompanied histological changes in the hippocampus, wherein both the microglia and astrocytes showed changes in the morphometric parameters at all timepoints. Along with this, the hippocampus showed presence of Aβ positive fibrils and neurite plaques after injury. Therefore, this study concludes that TBI can lead to a complex morphological, cellular, and structural alteration in the hippocampus which can be diagnosed using in vivo MR imaging techniques to prevent long-term functional deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Palkin Arora
- Radiological, Nuclear and Imaging Sciences (RNAIS), Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), DRDO, Delhi, India
- Department of Biochemistry, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Richa Trivedi
- Radiological, Nuclear and Imaging Sciences (RNAIS), Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), DRDO, Delhi, India.
| | - Megha Kumari
- Radiological, Nuclear and Imaging Sciences (RNAIS), Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), DRDO, Delhi, India
- Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University (DTU), Delhi, India
| | - Kavita Singh
- Radiological, Nuclear and Imaging Sciences (RNAIS), Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), DRDO, Delhi, India
| | - Rajat Sandhir
- Department of Biochemistry, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Maria M D'Souza
- Radiological, Nuclear and Imaging Sciences (RNAIS), Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), DRDO, Delhi, India
| | - Poonam Rana
- Radiological, Nuclear and Imaging Sciences (RNAIS), Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), DRDO, Delhi, India
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Prasad K, de Vries EFJ, van der Meiden E, Moraga-Amaro R, Vazquez-Matias DA, Barazzuol L, Dierckx RAJO, van Waarde A. Effects of the adenosine A 2A receptor antagonist KW6002 on the dopaminergic system, motor performance, and neuroinflammation in a rat model of Parkinson's disease. Neuropharmacology 2024; 247:109862. [PMID: 38325770 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.109862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Adenosine A2A-receptors (A2AR) and dopamine D2-receptors (D2R) are known to work together in a synergistic manner. Inhibiting A2ARs by genetic or pharmacological means can relief symptoms and have neuroprotective effects in certain conditions. We applied PET imaging to evaluate the impact of the A2AR antagonist KW6002 on D2R availability and neuroinflammation in an animal model of Parkinson's disease. Male Wistar rats with 6-hydroxydopamine-induced damage to the right striatum were given 3 mg/kg of KW6002 daily for 20 days. Motor function was assessed using the rotarod and cylinder tests, and neuroinflammation and dopamine receptor availability were measured using PET scans with the tracers [11C]PBR28 and [11C]raclopride, respectively. On day 7 and 22 following 6-OHDA injection, rats were sacrificed for postmortem analysis. PET scans revealed a peak in neuroinflammation on day 7. Chronic treatment with KW6002 significantly reduced [11C]PBR28 uptake in the ipsilateral striatum [normalized to contralateral striatum] and [11C]raclopride binding in both striata when compared to the vehicle group. These imaging findings were accompanied by an improvement in motor function. Postmortem analysis showed an 84% decrease in the number of Iba-1+ cells in the ipsilateral striatum [normalized to contralateral striatum] of KW6002-treated rats compared to vehicle rats on day 22 (p = 0.007), corroborating the PET findings. Analysis of tyrosine hydroxylase levels showed less dopaminergic neuron loss in the ipsilateral striatum of KW6002-treated rats compared to controls on day 7. These findings suggest that KW6002 reduces inflammation and dopaminergic neuron loss, leading to less motor symptoms in this animal model of Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavya Prasad
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Erik F J de Vries
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Esther van der Meiden
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Rodrigo Moraga-Amaro
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Daniel Aaron Vazquez-Matias
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Lara Barazzuol
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Rudi A J O Dierckx
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Aren van Waarde
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
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7
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Redmer T, Schumann E, Peters K, Weidemeier ME, Nowak S, Schroeder HWS, Vidal A, Radbruch H, Lehmann A, Kreuzer-Redmer S, Jürchott K, Radke J. MET receptor serves as a promising target in melanoma brain metastases. Acta Neuropathol 2024; 147:44. [PMID: 38386085 PMCID: PMC10884227 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-024-02694-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
The development of brain metastases hallmarks disease progression in 20-40% of melanoma patients and is a serious obstacle to therapy. Understanding the processes involved in the development and maintenance of melanoma brain metastases (MBM) is critical for the discovery of novel therapeutic strategies. Here, we generated transcriptome and methylome profiles of MBM showing high or low abundance of infiltrated Iba1high tumor-associated microglia and macrophages (TAMs). Our survey identified potential prognostic markers of favorable disease course and response to immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICi) therapy, among them APBB1IP and the interferon-responsive gene ITGB7. In MBM with high ITGB7/APBB1IP levels, the accumulation of TAMs correlated significantly with the immune score. Signature-based deconvolution of MBM via single sample GSEA revealed enrichment of interferon-response and immune signatures and revealed inflammation, stress and MET receptor signaling. MET receptor phosphorylation/activation maybe elicited by inflammatory processes in brain metastatic melanoma cells via stroma cell-released HGF. We found phospho-METY1234/1235 in a subset of MBM and observed a marked response of brain metastasis-derived cell lines (BMCs) that lacked druggable BRAF mutations or developed resistance to BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) in vivo to MET inhibitors PHA-665752 and ARQ197 (tivantinib). In summary, the activation of MET receptor in brain colonizing melanoma cells by stromal cell-released HGF may promote tumor self-maintenance and expansion and might counteract ICi therapy. Therefore, therapeutic targeting of MET possibly serves as a promising strategy to control intracranial progressive disease and improve patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torben Redmer
- Institute for Medical Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
- Institute of Pathology, Unit of Laboratory Animal Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Elisa Schumann
- Department of Neuropathology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Berlin, CCCC (Campus Mitte), Berlin, Germany
| | - Kristin Peters
- Institute of Pathology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Martin E Weidemeier
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Stephan Nowak
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Henry W S Schroeder
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Anna Vidal
- Institute for Medical Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Helena Radbruch
- Department of Neuropathology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Annika Lehmann
- Institute of Pathology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Kreuzer-Redmer
- Nutrigenomics Unit, Institute of Animal Nutrition and Functional Plant Compounds, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Karsten Jürchott
- Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Josefine Radke
- Institute of Pathology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.
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Virtuoso A, Galanis C, Lenz M, Papa M, Vlachos A. Regional Microglial Response in Entorhino-Hippocampal Slice Cultures to Schaffer Collateral Lesion and Metalloproteinases Modulation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2346. [PMID: 38397023 PMCID: PMC10889226 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglia and astrocytes are essential in sustaining physiological networks in the central nervous system, with their ability to remodel the extracellular matrix, being pivotal for synapse plasticity. Recent findings have challenged the traditional view of homogenous glial populations in the brain, uncovering morphological, functional, and molecular heterogeneity among glial cells. This diversity has significant implications for both physiological and pathological brain states. In the present study, we mechanically induced a Schaffer collateral lesion (SCL) in mouse entorhino-hippocampal slice cultures to investigate glial behavior, i.e., microglia and astrocytes, under metalloproteinases (MMPs) modulation in the lesioned area, CA3, and the denervated region, CA1. We observed distinct response patterns in the microglia and astrocytes 3 days after the lesion. Notably, GFAP-expressing astrocytes showed no immediate changes post-SCL. Microglia responses varied depending on their anatomical location, underscoring the complexity of the hippocampal neuroglial network post-injury. The MMPs inhibitor GM6001 did not affect microglial reactions in CA3, while increasing the number of Iba1-expressing cells in CA1, leading to a withdrawal of their primary branches. These findings highlight the importance of understanding glial regionalization following neural injury and MMPs modulation and pave the way for further research into glia-targeted therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assunta Virtuoso
- Neuronal Morphology Networks and Systems Biology Laboratory, Division of Human Anatomy, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; (C.G.); (A.V.)
| | - Christos Galanis
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; (C.G.); (A.V.)
| | - Maximilian Lenz
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; (C.G.); (A.V.)
- Hannover Medical School, Institute of Neuroanatomy and Cell Biology, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Michele Papa
- Neuronal Morphology Networks and Systems Biology Laboratory, Division of Human Anatomy, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Andreas Vlachos
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; (C.G.); (A.V.)
- Center for Basics in NeuroModulation (NeuroModulBasics), Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
- Center BrainLinks–BrainTools, University of Freiburg, 79110 Freiburg, Germany
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9
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Chintamen S, Gaur P, Vo N, Bradshaw EM, Menon V, Kernie SG. Distinct microglial transcriptomic signatures within the hippocampus. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296280. [PMID: 38180982 PMCID: PMC10775894 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglia, the resident immune cells of the brain, are crucial in the development of the nervous system. Recent evidence demonstrates that microglia modulate adult hippocampal neurogenesis by inhibiting cell proliferation of neural precursors and survival both in vitro and in vivo, thus maintaining a balance between cell division and cell death in the neural stem cell pool. There are increasing reports suggesting these microglia found in neurogenic niches differ from their counterparts in non-neurogenic areas. Here, we present evidence that hippocampal microglia exhibit transcriptomic heterogeneity, with some cells expressing genes associated with neurogenesis. By comprehensively profiling myeloid lineage cells in the hippocampus using single cell RNA-sequencing, we have uncovered a small, yet distinct population of microglia which exhibit depletion in genes associated with homeostatic microglia and enrichment of genes associated with phagocytosis. Intriguingly, this population also expresses a gene signature with substantial overlap with previously characterized phenotypes, including disease associated microglia (DAM), a particularly unique and compelling microglial state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Chintamen
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University College of Physicians and
Surgeons, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Pallavi Gaur
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians and
Surgeons, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Nicole Vo
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians and
Surgeons, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth M. Bradshaw
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians and
Surgeons, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Vilas Menon
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians and
Surgeons, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Steven G. Kernie
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University College of Physicians and
Surgeons, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians and
Surgeons, New York, New York, United States of America
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10
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Falangola MF, Dhiman S, Voltin J, Jensen JH. Quantitative microglia morphological features correlate with diffusion MRI in 2-month-old 3xTg-AD mice. Magn Reson Imaging 2023; 103:8-17. [PMID: 37392805 PMCID: PMC10528126 DOI: 10.1016/j.mri.2023.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
Microglia (MØ) morphologies are closely related to their functional state and have a central role in the maintenance of brain homeostasis. It is well known that inflammation contributes to neurodegeneration at later stages of Alzheimer's Disease, but it is not clear which role MØ-mediated inflammation may play earlier in the disease pathogenesis. We have previously reported that diffusion MRI (dMRI) is able to detect early myelin abnormalities present in 2-month-old 3xTg-AD (TG) mice; since MØ actively participate in regulating myelination, the goal of this study was to assess quantitatively MØ morphological characteristics and its association with dMRI metrics patterns in 2-month-old 3xTg-AD mice. Our results show that, even at this young age (2-month-old), TG mice have statistically significantly more MØ cells, which are overall smaller and more complex, compared with age-matched normal control mice (NC). Our results also confirm that myelin basic protein is reduced in TG mice, particularly in fimbria (Fi) and cortex. Additionally, MØ morphological characteristics, in both groups, correlate with several dMRI metrics, depending on the brain region examined. For example, the increase in MØ number correlated with higher radial diffusivity (r = 0.59, p = 0.008), lower fractional anisotropy (FA) (r = -0.47, p = 0.03), and lower kurtosis fractional anisotropy (KFA) (r = -0.55, p = 0.01) in the CC. Furthermore, smaller MØ cells correlate with higher axial diffusivity) in the HV (r = 0.49, p = 0.03) and Sub (r = 0.57, p = 0.01). Our findings demonstrate, for the first time, that MØ proliferation/activation are a common and widespread feature in 2-month-old 3xTg-AD mice and suggest that dMRI measures are sensitive to these MØ alterations, which are associated in this model with myelin dysfunction and microstructural integrity abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Fatima Falangola
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA; Center for Biomedical Imaging, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
| | - Siddhartha Dhiman
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Joshua Voltin
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA; Center for Biomedical Imaging, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Jens H Jensen
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA; Center for Biomedical Imaging, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA; Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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11
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Morimoto K, Watanuki S, Eguchi R, Kitano T, Otsuguro KI. Short-term memory impairment following recovery from systemic inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide in mice. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1273039. [PMID: 37920299 PMCID: PMC10618367 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1273039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The relationship between neuroinflammation and mental disorders has been recognized and investigated for over 30 years. Diseases of systemic or peripheral inflammation, such as sepsis, peritonitis, and infection, are associated with increased risk of mental disorders with neuroinflammation. To elucidate the pathogenesis, systemic administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice is often used. LPS-injected mice exhibit behavioral abnormalities with glial activation. However, these studies are unlikely to recapitulate the clinical pathophysiology of human patients, as most studies focus on the acute inflammatory response with systemic symptoms occurring within 24 h of LPS injection. In this study, we focus on the effects of LPS on behavioral abnormalities following recovery from systemic symptoms and investigate the mechanisms of pathogenesis. Several behavioral tests were performed in LPS-injected mice, and to assess neuroinflammation, the time course of the morphological change and expression of inflammatory factors in neurons, astrocytes, and microglia were investigated. At 7 days post-LPS injection, mice exhibited short-term memory impairment accompanied by the suppression of neuronal activity and increases in morphologically immature spines. Glial cells were transiently activated in the hippocampus concomitant with upregulation of the microglial phagocytosis marker CD68 3 days after injection. Here we show that transient glial cell activation in the acute response phase affects neuronal activity and behavior following recovery from systemic symptoms. These findings provide novel insights for studies using the LPS-induced inflammation model and that will contribute to the development of treatments for mental disorders of this etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kohei Morimoto
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shu Watanuki
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Ryota Eguchi
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Taisuke Kitano
- Laboratory of Veterinary Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University, Aomori, Japan
| | - Ken-ichi Otsuguro
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
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12
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Leitão ADG, Ahammad RU, Spencer B, Wu C, Masliah E, Rissman RA. Novel systemic delivery of a peptide-conjugated antisense oligonucleotide to reduce α-synuclein in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 186:106285. [PMID: 37690676 PMCID: PMC10584037 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders of aging are characterized by the progressive accumulation of proteins such as α-synuclein (α-syn) and amyloid beta (Aβ). Misfolded and aggregated α-syn has been implicated in neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, and Dementia with Lewy Bodies, but less so in Alzheimer's Disease (AD), despite the fact that accumulation of α-syn has been confirmed in over 50% of postmortem brains neuropathologically diagnosed with AD. To date, no therapeutic strategy has effectively or consistently downregulated α-syn in AD. Here we tested the hypothesis that by using a systemically-delivered peptide (ApoB11) bound to a modified antisense oligonucleotide against α-syn (ASO-α-syn), we can downregulate α-syn expression in an AD mouse model and improve behavioral and neuropathologic phenotypes. Our results demonstrate that monthly systemic treatment with of ApoB11:ASO α-syn beginning at 6 months of age reduces expression of α-synuclein in the brains of 9-month-old AD mice. Downregulation of α-syn led to reduction in Aβ plaque burden, prevented neuronal loss and astrogliosis. Furthermore, we found that AD mice treated with ApoB11:ASO α-syn had greatly improved hippocampal and spatial memory function in comparison to their control counterparts. Collectively, our data supports the reduction of α-syn through use of systemically-delivered ApoB11:ASO α-syn as a promising future disease-modifying therapeutic for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- André D G Leitão
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Rijwan U Ahammad
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Brian Spencer
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America
| | - Chengbiao Wu
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America; Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, San Diego, CA 92121, United States of America
| | - Eliezer Masliah
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, National Institute of Aging, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, United States of America
| | - Robert A Rissman
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America; Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, San Diego, CA 92121, United States of America; VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, United States of America.
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13
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Mulica P, Venegas C, Landoulsi Z, Badanjak K, Delcambre S, Tziortziou M, Hezzaz S, Ghelfi J, Smajic S, Schwamborn J, Krüger R, Antony P, May P, Glaab E, Grünewald A, Pereira SL. Comparison of two protocols for the generation of iPSC-derived human astrocytes. Biol Proced Online 2023; 25:26. [PMID: 37730545 PMCID: PMC10512486 DOI: 10.1186/s12575-023-00218-x] [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: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Astrocytes have recently gained attention as key contributors to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders including Parkinson's disease. To investigate human astrocytes in vitro, numerous differentiation protocols have been developed. However, the properties of the resulting glia are inconsistent, which complicates the selection of an appropriate method for a given research question. Thus, we compared two approaches for the generation of iPSC-derived astrocytes. We phenotyped glia that were obtained employing a widely used long, serum-free ("LSF") method against an in-house established short, serum-containing ("SSC") protocol which allows for the generation of astrocytes and midbrain neurons from the same precursor cells. RESULTS We employed high-content confocal imaging and RNA sequencing to characterize the cultures. The astrocytes generated with the LSF or SSC protocols differed considerably in their properties: while the former cells were more labor-intense in their generation (5 vs 2 months), they were also more mature. This notion was strengthened by data resulting from cell type deconvolution analysis that was applied to bulk transcriptomes from the cultures to assess their similarity with human postmortem astrocytes. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our analyses highlight the need to consider the advantages and disadvantages of a given differentiation protocol, when designing functional or drug discovery studies involving iPSC-derived astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Mulica
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Carmen Venegas
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Zied Landoulsi
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Katja Badanjak
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Sylvie Delcambre
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Maria Tziortziou
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Soraya Hezzaz
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Jenny Ghelfi
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Semra Smajic
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Jens Schwamborn
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Rejko Krüger
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
- Luxembourg Institute of Health, Strassen, Luxembourg
| | - Paul Antony
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Patrick May
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Enrico Glaab
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Anne Grünewald
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
| | - Sandro L Pereira
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
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14
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Jablonska PA, Galán N, Barranco J, Leon S, Robledano R, Echeveste JI, Calvo A, Aristu J, Serrano D. Presence of Activated (Phosphorylated) STAT3 in Radiation Necrosis Following Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Brain Metastases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14219. [PMID: 37762522 PMCID: PMC10532304 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814219] [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: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain radiation necrosis (RN) is a subacute or late adverse event following radiotherapy, involving an exacerbated inflammatory response of the brain tissue. The risk of symptomatic RN associated with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) as part of the treatment of brain metastases (BMs) has been a subject of recent investigation. The activation of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) was shown in reactive astrocytes (RA) associated with BMs. Given that the pathophysiological mechanisms behind RN are not fully understood, we sought to investigate the role of STAT3 among other inflammatory markers in RN development. A mouse model of RN using clinical LINAC-based SRS was designed to induce brain necrosis with the administration of 50 Gy in a single fraction to the left hemisphere using a circular collimator of 5 mm diameter. Immunohistochemistry and multiplex staining for CD4, CD8, CD68, GFAP, and STAT3 were performed. For validation, eleven patients with BMs treated with SRS who developed symptomatic RN and required surgery were identified to perform staining for CD68, GFAP, and STAT3. In the mouse model, the RN and perinecrotic areas showed significantly higher staining for F4/80+ and GFAP+ cells, with a high infiltration of CD4 and CD8 T-lymphocytes, when compared to the non-irradiated cerebral hemisphere. A high number of GFAP+pSTAT3+ and F4/80+pSTAT3+ cells was found in the RN areas and the rest of the irradiated hemisphere. The analysis of human brain specimens showed that astrocytes and microglia were actively phosphorylating STAT3 in the areas of RN and gliosis. Phosphorylated STAT3 is highly expressed in the microglia and RA pertaining to the areas of brain RN. Targeting STAT3 via inhibition represents a promising strategy to ameliorate symptomatic RN in BM patients undergoing SRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Anna Jablonska
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Nuria Galán
- IDISNA and Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain (A.C.); (D.S.)
| | - Jennifer Barranco
- IDISNA and Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain (A.C.); (D.S.)
| | - Sergio Leon
- IDISNA and Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain (A.C.); (D.S.)
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ramón Robledano
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - José Ignacio Echeveste
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Alfonso Calvo
- IDISNA and Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain (A.C.); (D.S.)
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- CIBERONC, ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Aristu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Proton Therapy Unit, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, 28027 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Diego Serrano
- IDISNA and Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain (A.C.); (D.S.)
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- CIBERONC, ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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15
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Yamada NO, Wenduerma, Senda T. Altered microbiota caused by disordered gut motility leads to an overactivation of intestinal immune system in APC1638T mice. Med Mol Morphol 2023; 56:177-186. [PMID: 36995439 DOI: 10.1007/s00795-023-00352-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) is recognized as an antioncogene related to familial adenomatous polyposis and colorectal cancers. However, APC is a large protein with multiple binding partners, indicating APC has diverse roles besides as a tumor suppressor. We have ever studied the roles of APC by using APC1638T/1638T (APC1638T) mice. Through those studies, we have noticed stools of APC1638T mice were smaller than those of APC+/+ mice and hypothesized there be a disturbance in fecal formation processes in APC1638T mice. The gut motility was morphologically analyzed by immunohistochemical staining of the Auerbach's plexus. Gut microbiota was analyzed by terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP). IgA concentration in stools was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). As results, macroscopic findings suggestive of large intestinal dysmotility and microscopic findings of disorganization and inflammation of the plexus were obtained in APC1638T mice. An alteration of microbiota composition, especially increased Bacteroidetes population was observed. Increases in IgA positive cells and dendritic cells in the ileum with high fecal IgA concentration were also confirmed, suggesting over-activation of gut immunity. Our findings will contribute to our understanding of APC's functions in the gastrointestinal motility, and lead to a development of novel therapies for gut dysmotility-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nami O Yamada
- Department of Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan.
| | - Wenduerma
- Department of Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
| | - Takao Senda
- Department of Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
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16
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Szabo M, Lajkó N, Dulka K, Barczánfalvi G, Lőrinczi B, Szatmári I, Mihály A, Vécsei L, Gulya K. The kynurenic acid analog SZR104 induces cytomorphological changes associated with the anti-inflammatory phenotype in cultured microglia. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11328. [PMID: 37443330 PMCID: PMC10344911 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38107-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
We previously showed the anti-inflammatory effects of kynurenic acid (KYNA) and its brain-penetrable analog N-(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl)-3-(morpholinomethyl)-4-hydroxyquinoline-2-carboxamide (SZR104) both in vivo and in vitro. Here, we identified the cytomorphological effects of KYNA and SZR104 in secondary microglial cultures established from newborn rat forebrains. We quantitatively analyzed selected morphological aspects of microglia in control (unchallenged), lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated (challenged), KYNA- or SZR104-treated, and LPS + KYNA or LPS + SZR104-treated cultures. Multicolor immunofluorescence labeling followed by morphometric analysis (area, perimeter, transformation index, lacunarity, density, span ratio, maximum span across the convex hull, hull circularity, hull area, hull perimeter, max/min radii, mean radius, diameter of bounding circle, fractal dimension, roughness, circularity) on binary (digital) silhouettes of the microglia revealed their morphological plasticity under experimental conditions. SZR104 and, to a lesser degree, KYNA inhibited proinflammatory phenotypic changes. For example, SZR104 treatment resulted in hypertrophied microglia characterized by a swollen cell body, enlarged perimeter, increased transformation index/decreased circularity, increased convex hull values (area, perimeter, mean radius, maximum span, diameter of the bounding circle and hull circularity), altered box-counting parameters (such as fractal dimension), and increased roughness/decreased density. Taken together, analysis of cytomorphological features could contribute to the characterization of the anti-inflammatory activity of SZR104 on cultured microglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda Szabo
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, University of Szeged, Somogyi utca 4., 6720, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Noémi Lajkó
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, University of Szeged, Somogyi utca 4., 6720, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Karolina Dulka
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, University of Szeged, Somogyi utca 4., 6720, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gábor Barczánfalvi
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, University of Szeged, Somogyi utca 4., 6720, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bálint Lőrinczi
- ELKH-SZTE Stereochemistry Research Group, Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Szeged, 6720, Szeged, Hungary
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Interdisciplinary Excellence Center, University of Szeged, 6720, Szeged, Hungary
| | - István Szatmári
- ELKH-SZTE Stereochemistry Research Group, Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Szeged, 6720, Szeged, Hungary
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Interdisciplinary Excellence Center, University of Szeged, 6720, Szeged, Hungary
| | - András Mihály
- Department of Anatomy, University of Szeged, 6724, Szeged, Hungary
| | - László Vécsei
- Department of Neurology, University of Szeged, 6725, Szeged, Hungary
- ELKH-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, Department of Neurology, Interdisciplinary Excellence Center, University of Szeged, 6725, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Karoly Gulya
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, University of Szeged, Somogyi utca 4., 6720, Szeged, Hungary.
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17
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Que M, Li Y, Wang X, Zhan G, Luo X, Zhou Z. Role of astrocytes in sleep deprivation: accomplices, resisters, or bystanders? Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1188306. [PMID: 37435045 PMCID: PMC10330732 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1188306] [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: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Sleep plays an essential role in all studied animals with a nervous system. However, sleep deprivation leads to various pathological changes and neurobehavioral problems. Astrocytes are the most abundant cells in the brain and are involved in various important functions, including neurotransmitter and ion homeostasis, synaptic and neuronal modulation, and blood-brain barrier maintenance; furthermore, they are associated with numerous neurodegenerative diseases, pain, and mood disorders. Moreover, astrocytes are increasingly being recognized as vital contributors to the regulation of sleep-wake cycles, both locally and in specific neural circuits. In this review, we begin by describing the role of astrocytes in regulating sleep and circadian rhythms, focusing on: (i) neuronal activity; (ii) metabolism; (iii) the glymphatic system; (iv) neuroinflammation; and (v) astrocyte-microglia cross-talk. Moreover, we review the role of astrocytes in sleep deprivation comorbidities and sleep deprivation-related brain disorders. Finally, we discuss potential interventions targeting astrocytes to prevent or treat sleep deprivation-related brain disorders. Pursuing these questions would pave the way for a deeper understanding of the cellular and neural mechanisms underlying sleep deprivation-comorbid brain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxin Que
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Medical College, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yujuan Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Medical College, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xuan Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Medical College, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Gaofeng Zhan
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Medical College, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Luo
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Medical College, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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18
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Rios-Carrillo R, Ramírez-Manzanares A, Luna-Munguía H, Regalado M, Concha L. Differentiation of white matter histopathology using b-tensor encoding and machine learning. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282549. [PMID: 37352195 PMCID: PMC10289327 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) is a non-invasive technique that is sensitive to microstructural geometry in neural tissue and is useful for the detection of neuropathology in research and clinical settings. Tensor-valued diffusion encoding schemes (b-tensor) have been developed to enrich the microstructural data that can be obtained through DW-MRI. These advanced methods have proven to be more specific to microstructural properties than conventional DW-MRI acquisitions. Additionally, machine learning methods are particularly useful for the study of multidimensional data sets. In this work, we have tested the reach of b-tensor encoding data analyses with machine learning in different histopathological scenarios. We achieved this in three steps: 1) We induced different levels of white matter damage in rodent optic nerves. 2) We obtained ex vivo DW-MRI data with b-tensor encoding schemes and calculated quantitative metrics using Q-space trajectory imaging. 3) We used a machine learning model to identify the main contributing features and built a voxel-wise probabilistic classification map of histological damage. Our results show that this model is sensitive to characteristics of microstructural damage. In conclusion, b-tensor encoded DW-MRI data analyzed with machine learning methods, have the potential to be further developed for the detection of histopathology and neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Rios-Carrillo
- Instituto de Neurobiologia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Querétaro, México
| | | | - Hiram Luna-Munguía
- Instituto de Neurobiologia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Querétaro, México
| | - Mirelta Regalado
- Instituto de Neurobiologia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Querétaro, México
| | - Luis Concha
- Instituto de Neurobiologia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Querétaro, México
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19
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Lucchi C, Codeluppi A, Filaferro M, Vitale G, Rustichelli C, Avallone R, Mandrioli J, Biagini G. Human Microglia Synthesize Neurosteroids to Cope with Rotenone-Induced Oxidative Stress. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12040963. [PMID: 37107338 PMCID: PMC10135967 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12040963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
We obtained evidence that mouse BV2 microglia synthesize neurosteroids dynamically to modify neurosteroid levels in response to oxidative damage caused by rotenone. Here, we evaluated whether neurosteroids could be produced and altered in response to rotenone by the human microglial clone 3 (HMC3) cell line. To this aim, HMC3 cultures were exposed to rotenone (100 nM) and neurosteroids were measured in the culture medium by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Microglia reactivity was evaluated by measuring interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels, whereas cell viability was monitored by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. After 24 h (h), rotenone increased IL-6 and reactive oxygen species levels by approximately +37% over the baseline, without affecting cell viability; however, microglia viability was significantly reduced at 48 h (p < 0.01). These changes were accompanied by the downregulation of several neurosteroids, including pregnenolone, pregnenolone sulfate, 5α-dihydroprogesterone, and pregnanolone, except for allopregnanolone, which instead was remarkably increased (p < 0.05). Interestingly, treatment with exogenous allopregnanolone (1 nM) efficiently prevented the reduction in HMC3 cell viability. In conclusion, this is the first evidence that human microglia can produce allopregnanolone and that this neurosteroid is increasingly released in response to oxidative stress, to tentatively support the microglia's survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Lucchi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Codeluppi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Monica Filaferro
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Vitale
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Cecilia Rustichelli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Rossella Avallone
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Jessica Mandrioli
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Ospedale Civile di Baggiovara, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Biagini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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20
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Shen Z, Li ZY, Yu MT, Tan KL, Chen S. Metabolic perspective of astrocyte dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes brains. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114206. [PMID: 36916433 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The term type III diabetes (T3DM) has been proposed for Alzheimer's disease (AD) due to the shared molecular and cellular features between type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and insulin resistance-associated memory deficits and cognitive decline in elderly individuals. Astrocytes elicit neuroprotective or deleterious effects in AD progression and severity. Patients with T2DM are at a high risk of cognitive impairment, and targeting astrocytes might be promising in alleviating neurodegeneration in the diabetic brain. Recent studies focusing on cell-specific activities in the brain have revealed the important role of astrocytes in brain metabolism (e.g., glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism), neurovascular coupling, synapses, and synaptic plasticity. In this review, we discuss how astrocytes and their dysfunction result in multiple pathological and clinical features of AD and T2DM from a metabolic perspective and the potential comorbid mechanism in these two diseases from the perspective of astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Shen
- Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519041, China
| | - Zheng-Yang Li
- Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519041, China
| | - Meng-Ting Yu
- Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519041, China
| | - Kai-Leng Tan
- Institute of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China.
| | - Si Chen
- Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519041, China.
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21
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Choi S, Hill D, Young J, Cordeiro MF. Image processing and supervised machine learning for retinal microglia characterization in senescence. Methods Cell Biol 2023; 181:109-125. [PMID: 38302234 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mcb.2022.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The process of senescence impairs the function of cells and can ultimately be a key factor in the development of disease. With an aging population, senescence-related diseases are increasing in prevalence. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of cellular senescence within the central nervous system (CNS), including the retina, may yield new therapeutic pathways to slow or even prevent the development of neuro- and retinal degenerative diseases. One method of probing the changing functions of senescent retinal cells is to observe retinal microglial cells. Their morphological structure may change in response to their surrounding cellular environment. In this chapter, we show how microglial cells in the retina, which are implicated in aging and diseases of the CNS, can be identified, quantified, and classified into five distinct morphotypes using image processing and supervised machine learning algorithms. The process involves dissecting, staining, and mounting mouse retinas, before image capture via fluorescence microscopy. The resulting images can then be classified by morphotype using a support vector machine (SVM) we have recently described showing high accuracy. This SVM model uses shape metrics found to correspond with qualitative descriptions of the shape of each morphotype taken from existing literature. We encourage more objective and widespread use of methods of quantification such as this. We believe automatic delineation of the population of microglial cells in the retina, could potentially lead to their use as retinal imaging biomarkers for disease prediction in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soyoung Choi
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom; Novai Ltd, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Hill
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Maria Francesca Cordeiro
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom; Novai Ltd, Reading, United Kingdom; Imperial College Ophthalmology Research Group, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
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22
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Martinez A, Hériché JK, Calvo M, Tischer C, Otxoa-de-Amezaga A, Pedragosa J, Bosch A, Planas AM, Petegnief V. Characterization of microglia behaviour in healthy and pathological conditions with image analysis tools. Open Biol 2023; 13:220200. [PMID: 36629019 PMCID: PMC9832574 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.220200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Microglia are very sensitive to changes in the environment and respond through morphological, functional and metabolic adaptations. To depict the modifications microglia undergo under healthy and pathological conditions, we developed free access image analysis scripts to quantify microglia morphologies and phagocytosis. Neuron-glia cultures, in which microglia express the reporter tdTomato, were exposed to excitotoxicity or excitotoxicity + inflammation and analysed 8 h later. Neuronal death was assessed by SYTOX staining of nucleus debris and phagocytosis was measured through the engulfment of SYTOX+ particles in microglia. We identified seven morphologies: round, hypertrophic, fried egg, bipolar and three 'inflamed' morphologies. We generated a classifier able to separate them and assign one of the seven classes to each microglia in sample images. In control cultures, round and hypertrophic morphologies were predominant. Excitotoxicity had a limited effect on the composition of the populations. By contrast, excitotoxicity + inflammation promoted an enrichment in inflamed morphologies and increased the percentage of phagocytosing microglia. Our data suggest that inflammation is critical to promote phenotypical changes in microglia. We also validated our tools for the segmentation of microglia in brain slices and performed morphometry with the obtained mask. Our method is versatile and useful to correlate microglia sub-populations and behaviour with environmental changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleix Martinez
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jean-Karim Hériché
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maria Calvo
- Advanced Optical Microscopy Facility, Scientific and Technological Centers. School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Christian Tischer
- Centre for BioImage Analysis, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Amaia Otxoa-de-Amezaga
- Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience and Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Achucarro, 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Jordi Pedragosa
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Institute for Biomedical Research of Barcelona, Spanish Research Council, 08036 Barcelona, Spain,Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Augustí Pi i Sunyer, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Bosch
- Advanced Optical Microscopy Facility, Scientific and Technological Centers. School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna M. Planas
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Institute for Biomedical Research of Barcelona, Spanish Research Council, 08036 Barcelona, Spain,Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Augustí Pi i Sunyer, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Valérie Petegnief
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Institute for Biomedical Research of Barcelona, Spanish Research Council, 08036 Barcelona, Spain,Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Augustí Pi i Sunyer, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
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23
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Fan LY, Yang J, Li ML, Liu RY, Kong Y, Duan SY, Guo GY, Yang JH, Xu YM. Single-nucleus transcriptional profiling uncovers the reprogrammed metabolism of astrocytes in Alzheimer's disease. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1136398. [PMID: 36910261 PMCID: PMC9992528 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1136398] [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: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes play an important role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). It is widely involved in energy metabolism in the brain by providing nutritional and metabolic support to neurons; however, the alteration in the metabolism of astrocytes in AD remains unknown. Through integrative analysis of single-nucleus sequencing datasets, we revealed metabolic changes in various cell types in the prefrontal cortex of patients with AD. We found the depletion of some important metabolites (acetyl-coenzyme A, aspartate, pyruvate, 2-oxoglutarate, glutamine, and others), as well as the inhibition of some metabolic fluxes (glycolysis and tricarbocylic acid cycle, glutamate metabolism) in astrocytes of AD. The abnormality of glutamate metabolism in astrocytes is unique and important. Downregulation of GLUL (GS) and GLUD1 (GDH) may be the cause of glutamate alterations in astrocytes in AD. These results provide a basis for understanding the characteristic changes in astrocytes in AD and provide ideas for the study of AD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Yuan Fan
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Clinical Systems Biology Laboratories, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ming-Li Li
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Clinical Systems Biology Laboratories, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ruo-Yu Liu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Clinical Systems Biology Laboratories, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ying Kong
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Su-Ying Duan
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guang-Yu Guo
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Clinical Systems Biology Laboratories, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing-Hua Yang
- Clinical Systems Biology Laboratories, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yu-Ming Xu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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24
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Leitão AD, Spencer B, Sarsoza F, Ngolab J, Amalraj J, Masliah E, Wu C, Rissman RA. Hippocampal Reduction of α-Synuclein via RNA Interference Improves Neuropathology in Alzheimer's Disease Mice. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 95:349-361. [PMID: 37522208 PMCID: PMC10578232 DOI: 10.3233/jad-230232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) cases are often characterized by the pathological accumulation of α-synuclein (α-syn) in addition to amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau hallmarks. The role of α-syn has been extensively studied in synucleinopathy disorders, but less so in AD. Recent studies have shown that α-syn may also play a role in AD and its downregulation may be protective against the toxic effects of Aβ accumulation. OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that selectively knocking down α-syn via RNA interference improves the neuropathological and biochemical findings in AD mice. METHODS Here we used amyloid precursor protein transgenic (APP-Tg) mice to model AD and explore pathologic and behavioral phenotypes with knockdown of α-syn using RNA interference. We selectively reduced α-syn levels by stereotaxic bilateral injection of either LV-shRNA α-syn or LV-shRNA-luc (control) into the hippocampus of AD mice. RESULTS We found that downregulation of α-syn results in significant reduction in the number of Aβ plaques. In addition, mice treated with LV-shRNA α-syn had amelioration of abnormal microglial activation (Iba1) and astrocytosis (GFAP) phenotypes in AD mice. CONCLUSION Our data suggests a novel link between Aβ and α-syn pathology as well as a new therapeutic angle for targeting AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- André D.G. Leitão
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Brian Spencer
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Floyd Sarsoza
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Ngolab
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jessica Amalraj
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Chengbiao Wu
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Robert A. Rissman
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience, Alzheimer’s Therapeutic Research Institute of the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, San Diego, CA, USA
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, La Jolla, CA, USA
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25
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Savya SP, Li F, Lam S, Wellman SM, Stieger KC, Chen K, Eles JR, Kozai TDY. In vivo spatiotemporal dynamics of astrocyte reactivity following neural electrode implantation. Biomaterials 2022; 289:121784. [PMID: 36103781 PMCID: PMC10231871 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Brain computer interfaces (BCIs), including penetrating microelectrode arrays, enable both recording and stimulation of neural cells. However, device implantation inevitably causes injury to brain tissue and induces a foreign body response, leading to reduced recording performance and stimulation efficacy. Astrocytes in the healthy brain play multiple roles including regulating energy metabolism, homeostatic balance, transmission of neural signals, and neurovascular coupling. Following an insult to the brain, they are activated and gather around the site of injury. These reactive astrocytes have been regarded as one of the main contributors to the formation of a glial scar which affects the performance of microelectrode arrays. This study investigates the dynamics of astrocytes within the first 2 weeks after implantation of an intracortical microelectrode into the mouse brain using two-photon microscopy. From our observation astrocytes are highly dynamic during this period, exhibiting patterns of process extension, soma migration, morphological activation, and device encapsulation that are spatiotemporally distinct from other glial cells, such as microglia or oligodendrocyte precursor cells. This detailed characterization of astrocyte reactivity will help to better understand the tissue response to intracortical devices and lead to the development of more effective intervention strategies to improve the functional performance of neural interfacing technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajishnu P Savya
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Northwestern University, USA
| | - Fan Li
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Center for Neural Basis of Cognition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Computational Modeling & Simulation PhD Program, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Stephanie Lam
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Center for Neural Basis of Cognition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Steven M Wellman
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Center for Neural Basis of Cognition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kevin C Stieger
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Center for Neural Basis of Cognition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Keying Chen
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Center for Neural Basis of Cognition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - James R Eles
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Center for Neural Basis of Cognition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Takashi D Y Kozai
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Center for Neural Basis of Cognition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; NeuroTech Center, University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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26
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Takahashi K, Nelvagal HR, Lange J, Cooper JD. Glial Dysfunction and Its Contribution to the Pathogenesis of the Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses. Front Neurol 2022; 13:886567. [PMID: 35444603 PMCID: PMC9013902 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.886567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
While significant efforts have been made in developing pre-clinical treatments for the neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs), many challenges still remain to bring children with NCLs a cure. Devising effective therapeutic strategies for the NCLs will require a better understanding of pathophysiology, but little is known about the mechanisms by which loss of lysosomal proteins causes such devastating neurodegeneration. Research into glial cells including astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocytes have revealed many of their critical functions in brain homeostasis and potential contributions to neurodegenerative diseases. Genetically modified mouse models have served as a useful platform to define the disease progression in the central nervous system across NCL subtypes, revealing a wide range of glial responses to disease. The emerging evidence of glial dysfunction questions the traditional “neuron-centric” view of NCLs, and would suggest that directly targeting glia in addition to neurons could lead to better therapeutic outcomes. This review summarizes the most up-to-date understanding of glial pathologies and their contribution to the pathogenesis of NCLs, and highlights some of the associated challenges that require further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keigo Takahashi
- Pediatric Storage Disorders Laboratory, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Hemanth R. Nelvagal
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jenny Lange
- Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan D. Cooper
- Pediatric Storage Disorders Laboratory, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
- *Correspondence: Jonathan D. Cooper
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27
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Borjeni MS, Korani M, Meftahi GH, Davoodian N, Hadipour M, Jahromi GP. Laterality dissociation of ventral hippocampus inhibition in learning and memory, glial activation and neural arborization in response to chronic stress in male Wistar rats. J Chem Neuroanat 2022; 121:102090. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2022.102090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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28
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Yun W, Kim YJ, Lee G. Direct Conversion to Achieve Glial Cell Fates: Oligodendrocytes and Schwann Cells. Int J Stem Cells 2022; 15:14-25. [PMID: 35220289 PMCID: PMC8889328 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc22008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glia have been known for its pivotal roles in physiological and pathological conditions in the nervous system. To study glial biology, multiple approaches have been applied to utilize glial cells for research, including stem cell-based technologies. Human glial cells differentiated from pluripotent stem cells are now available, allowing us to study the structural and functional roles of glia in the nervous system, although the efficiency is still low. Direct conversion is an advanced strategy governing fate conversion of diverse cell types directly into the desired lineage. This novel strategy stands as a promising approach for preliminary research and regenerative medicine. Direct conversion employs genetic and environmental cues to change cell fate to that with the required functional cell properties while retaining maturity-related molecular features. As an alternative method, it is now possible to obtain a variety of mature cell populations that could not be obtained using conventional differentiation methods. This review summarizes current achievements in obtaining glia, particularly oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wonjin Yun
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yong Jun Kim
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Gabsang Lee
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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29
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Tang JJ, Huang LF, Deng JL, Wang YM, Guo C, Peng XN, Liu Z, Gao JM. Cognitive enhancement and neuroprotective effects of OABL, a sesquiterpene lactone in 5xFAD Alzheimer's disease mice model. Redox Biol 2022; 50:102229. [PMID: 35026701 PMCID: PMC8760418 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2022.102229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease in which oxidative stress and neuroinflammation were demonstrated to be associated with neuronal loss and cognitive deficits. However, there are still no specific treatments that can prevent the progression of AD. In this study, a screening of anti-inflammatory hits from 4207 natural compounds of two different molecular libraries indicated 1,6-O,O-diacetylbritannilactone (OABL), a 1,10-seco-eudesmane sesquiterpene lactone isolated from the herb Inula britannica L., exhibited strong anti-inflammatory activity in vitro as well as favorable BBB penetration property. OABL reduced LPS-induced neuroinflammation in BV-2 microglial cells as assessed by effects on the levels of inflammatory mediators including NO, PGE2, TNF-α, iNOS, and COX-2, as well as the translocation of NF-κB. Besides, OABL also exhibited pronounced neuroprotective effects against oxytosis and ferroptosis in the rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cell line. For in vivo research, OABL (20 mg/kg B.W., i.p.) for 21 d attenuated the impairments in cognitive function observed in 6-month-old 5xFAD mice, as assessed with the Morris water maze test. OABL restored neuronal damage and postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) expression in the hippocampus. OABL also significantly reduced the accumulation of amyloid plaques, the Aβ expression, the phosphorylation of Tau protein, and the expression of BACE1 in AD mice brain. In addition, OABL attenuated the overactivation of microglia and astrocytes by suppressing the expressions of inflammatory cytokines, and increased glutathione (GSH) and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) and super oxide dismutase (SOD) levels in the 5xFAD mice brain. In conclusion, these results highlight the beneficial effects of the natural product OABL as a novel treatment with potential application for drug discovery in AD due to its pharmacological profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang-Jiang Tang
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products & Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China.
| | - Lan-Fang Huang
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products & Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Jia-Le Deng
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products & Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Yi-Meng Wang
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products & Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Cong Guo
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products & Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Xiao-Na Peng
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products & Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Zhigang Liu
- Laboratory of Functional Chemistry and Nutrition of Food, College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China.
| | - Jin-Ming Gao
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products & Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China.
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30
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Aramideh JA, Vidal-Itriago A, Morsch M, Graeber MB. Cytokine Signalling at the Microglial Penta-Partite Synapse. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413186. [PMID: 34947983 PMCID: PMC8708012 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglial cell processes form part of a subset of synaptic contacts that have been dubbed microglial tetra-partite or quad-partite synapses. Since tetrapartite may also refer to the presence of extracellular matrix components, we propose the more precise term microglial penta-partite synapse for synapses that show a microglial cell process in close physical proximity to neuronal and astrocytic synaptic constituents. Microglial cells are now recognised as key players in central nervous system (CNS) synaptic changes. When synaptic plasticity involving microglial penta-partite synapses occurs, microglia may utilise their cytokine arsenal to facilitate the generation of new synapses, eliminate those that are not needed anymore, or modify the molecular and structural properties of the remaining synaptic contacts. In addition, microglia–synapse contacts may develop de novo under pathological conditions. Microglial penta-partite synapses have received comparatively little attention as unique sites in the CNS where microglial cells, cytokines and other factors they release have a direct influence on the connections between neurons and their function. It concerns our understanding of the penta-partite synapse where the confusion created by the term “neuroinflammation” is most counterproductive. The mere presence of activated microglia or the release of their cytokines may occur independent of inflammation, and penta-partite synapses are not usually active in a neuroimmunological sense. Clarification of these details is the main purpose of this review, specifically highlighting the relationship between microglia, synapses, and the cytokines that can be released by microglial cells in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Abbas Aramideh
- Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
| | - Andres Vidal-Itriago
- Faculty of Medicine, Health & Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia; (A.V.-I.); (M.M.)
| | - Marco Morsch
- Faculty of Medicine, Health & Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia; (A.V.-I.); (M.M.)
| | - Manuel B. Graeber
- Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
- Correspondence:
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31
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Vilpoux C, Fouquet G, Deschamps C, Lefebvre E, Gosset P, Antol J, Zabijak L, Marcq I, Naassila M, Pierrefiche O. Astrogliosis and compensatory neurogenesis after the first ethanol binge drinking-like exposure in the adolescent rat. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2021; 46:207-220. [PMID: 34862633 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14757] [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: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple ethanol binge drinking-like exposures during adolescence in the rat induce neuroinflammation, loss of neurogenesis, and cognitive deficits in adulthood. Interestingly, the first ethanol binge drinking-like exposure during adolescence also induces short- term impairments in cognition and synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus though the cellular mechanisms of these effects are unclear. Here, we sought to determine which of the cellular effects of ethanol might play a role in the disturbances in cognition and synaptic plasticity observed in the adolescent male rat after two binge-like ethanol exposures. METHODS Using immunochemistry, we measured neurogenesis, neuronal loss, astrogliosis, neuroinflammation, and synaptogenesis in the hippocampus of adolescent rats 48 h after two binge-like ethanol exposures (3 g/kg, i.p., 9 h apart). We used flow cytometry to analyze activated microglia and identify the TLR4-expressing cell types. RESULTS We detected increased hippocampal doublecortin immunoreactivity in the subgranular zone (SGZ) of the dentate gyrus (DG), astrogliosis in the SGZ, and a reduced number of mature neurons in the DG and in CA3, suggesting compensatory neurogenesis. Synaptic density decreased in the stratum oriens of CA1 revealing structural plasticity. There was no change in microglial TLR4 expression or in the number of activated microglia, suggesting a lack of neuroinflammatory processes, although neuronal TLR4 was decreased in CA1 and DG. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that the cognitive deficits associated with hippocampal synaptic plasticity alterations that we previously characterized 48 h after the first binge-like ethanol exposures are associated with hippocampal structural plasticity, astrogliosis, and decreased neuronal TLR4 expression, but not with microglia reactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Vilpoux
- UMR1247 INSERM, Groupe de Recherche sur l'Alcool et les Pharmacodépendances, Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Gregory Fouquet
- UMR1247 INSERM, Groupe de Recherche sur l'Alcool et les Pharmacodépendances, Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Chloe Deschamps
- UMR1247 INSERM, Groupe de Recherche sur l'Alcool et les Pharmacodépendances, Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Elise Lefebvre
- UMR1247 INSERM, Groupe de Recherche sur l'Alcool et les Pharmacodépendances, Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Philippe Gosset
- UMR1247 INSERM, Groupe de Recherche sur l'Alcool et les Pharmacodépendances, Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Johann Antol
- UMR1247 INSERM, Groupe de Recherche sur l'Alcool et les Pharmacodépendances, Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Luciane Zabijak
- UMR1247 INSERM, Groupe de Recherche sur l'Alcool et les Pharmacodépendances, Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France.,Plateforme d'Ingénierie Cellulaire & Analyses des Protéines (ICAP), Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Ingrid Marcq
- UMR1247 INSERM, Groupe de Recherche sur l'Alcool et les Pharmacodépendances, Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Mickael Naassila
- UMR1247 INSERM, Groupe de Recherche sur l'Alcool et les Pharmacodépendances, Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Olivier Pierrefiche
- UMR1247 INSERM, Groupe de Recherche sur l'Alcool et les Pharmacodépendances, Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
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Andersen JV, Westi EW, Jakobsen E, Urruticoechea N, Borges K, Aldana BI. Astrocyte metabolism of the medium-chain fatty acids octanoic acid and decanoic acid promotes GABA synthesis in neurons via elevated glutamine supply. Mol Brain 2021; 14:132. [PMID: 34479615 PMCID: PMC8414667 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-021-00842-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The medium-chain fatty acids octanoic acid (C8) and decanoic acid (C10) are gaining attention as beneficial brain fuels in several neurological disorders. The protective effects of C8 and C10 have been proposed to be driven by hepatic production of ketone bodies. However, plasma ketone levels correlates poorly with the cerebral effects of C8 and C10, suggesting that additional mechanism are in place. Here we investigated cellular C8 and C10 metabolism in the brain and explored how the protective effects of C8 and C10 may be linked to cellular metabolism. Using dynamic isotope labeling, with [U-13C]C8 and [U-13C]C10 as metabolic substrates, we show that both C8 and C10 are oxidatively metabolized in mouse brain slices. The 13C enrichment from metabolism of [U-13C]C8 and [U-13C]C10 was particularly prominent in glutamine, suggesting that C8 and C10 metabolism primarily occurs in astrocytes. This finding was corroborated in cultured astrocytes in which C8 increased the respiration linked to ATP production, whereas C10 elevated the mitochondrial proton leak. When C8 and C10 were provided together as metabolic substrates in brain slices, metabolism of C10 was predominant over that of C8. Furthermore, metabolism of both [U-13C]C8 and [U-13C]C10 was unaffected by etomoxir indicating that it is independent of carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT-1). Finally, we show that inhibition of glutamine synthesis selectively reduced 13C accumulation in GABA from [U-13C]C8 and [U-13C]C10 metabolism in brain slices, demonstrating that the glutamine generated from astrocyte C8 and C10 metabolism is utilized for neuronal GABA synthesis. Collectively, the results show that cerebral C8 and C10 metabolism is linked to the metabolic coupling of neurons and astrocytes, which may serve as a protective metabolic mechanism of C8 and C10 supplementation in neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens V Andersen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100, Copenhagen E, Denmark.
| | - Emil W Westi
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100, Copenhagen E, Denmark
| | - Emil Jakobsen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100, Copenhagen E, Denmark
| | - Nerea Urruticoechea
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100, Copenhagen E, Denmark
| | - Karin Borges
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Blanca I Aldana
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100, Copenhagen E, Denmark.
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Andersen JV, Markussen KH, Jakobsen E, Schousboe A, Waagepetersen HS, Rosenberg PA, Aldana BI. Glutamate metabolism and recycling at the excitatory synapse in health and neurodegeneration. Neuropharmacology 2021; 196:108719. [PMID: 34273389 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter of the brain. Cellular homeostasis of glutamate is of paramount importance for normal brain function and relies on an intricate metabolic collaboration between neurons and astrocytes. Glutamate is extensively recycled between neurons and astrocytes in a process known as the glutamate-glutamine cycle. The recycling of glutamate is closely linked to brain energy metabolism and is essential to sustain glutamatergic neurotransmission. However, a considerable amount of glutamate is also metabolized and serves as a metabolic hub connecting glucose and amino acid metabolism in both neurons and astrocytes. Disruptions in glutamate clearance, leading to neuronal overstimulation and excitotoxicity, have been implicated in several neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, the link between brain energy homeostasis and glutamate metabolism is gaining attention in several neurological conditions. In this review, we provide an overview of the dynamics of synaptic glutamate homeostasis and the underlying metabolic processes with a cellular focus on neurons and astrocytes. In particular, we review the recently discovered role of neuronal glutamate uptake in synaptic glutamate homeostasis and discuss current advances in cellular glutamate metabolism in the context of Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease. Understanding the intricate regulation of glutamate-dependent metabolic processes at the synapse will not only increase our insight into the metabolic mechanisms of glutamate homeostasis, but may reveal new metabolic targets to ameliorate neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens V Andersen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Kia H Markussen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Emil Jakobsen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Arne Schousboe
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Helle S Waagepetersen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Paul A Rosenberg
- Department of Neurology and the F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Blanca I Aldana
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Astrocytes in Multiple Sclerosis-Essential Constituents with Diverse Multifaceted Functions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115904. [PMID: 34072790 PMCID: PMC8198285 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In multiple sclerosis (MS), astrocytes respond to the inflammatory stimulation with an early robust process of morphological, transcriptional, biochemical, and functional remodeling. Recent studies utilizing novel technologies in samples from MS patients, and in an animal model of MS, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), exposed the detrimental and the beneficial, in part contradictory, functions of this heterogeneous cell population. In this review, we summarize the various roles of astrocytes in recruiting immune cells to lesion sites, engendering the inflammatory loop, and inflicting tissue damage. The roles of astrocytes in suppressing excessive inflammation and promoting neuroprotection and repair processes is also discussed. The pivotal roles played by astrocytes make them an attractive therapeutic target. Improved understanding of astrocyte function and diversity, and the mechanisms by which they are regulated may lead to the development of novel approaches to selectively block astrocytic detrimental responses and/or enhance their protective properties.
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Cameron T, Bennet T, Rowe EM, Anwer M, Wellington CL, Cheung KC. Review of Design Considerations for Brain-on-a-Chip Models. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:441. [PMID: 33921018 PMCID: PMC8071412 DOI: 10.3390/mi12040441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the need for sophisticated human in vitro models for integrative biology has motivated the development of organ-on-a-chip platforms. Organ-on-a-chip devices are engineered to mimic the mechanical, biochemical and physiological properties of human organs; however, there are many important considerations when selecting or designing an appropriate device for investigating a specific scientific question. Building microfluidic Brain-on-a-Chip (BoC) models from the ground-up will allow for research questions to be answered more thoroughly in the brain research field, but the design of these devices requires several choices to be made throughout the design development phase. These considerations include the cell types, extracellular matrix (ECM) material(s), and perfusion/flow considerations. Choices made early in the design cycle will dictate the limitations of the device and influence the end-point results such as the permeability of the endothelial cell monolayer, and the expression of cell type-specific markers. To better understand why the engineering aspects of a microfluidic BoC need to be influenced by the desired biological environment, recent progress in microfluidic BoC technology is compared. This review focuses on perfusable blood-brain barrier (BBB) and neurovascular unit (NVU) models with discussions about the chip architecture, the ECM used, and how they relate to the in vivo human brain. With increased knowledge on how to make informed choices when selecting or designing BoC models, the scientific community will benefit from shorter development phases and platforms curated for their application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany Cameron
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; (T.C.); (T.B.)
- Centre for Blood Research, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Tanya Bennet
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; (T.C.); (T.B.)
- Centre for Blood Research, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Elyn M. Rowe
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; (E.M.R.); (M.A.); (C.L.W.)
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Mehwish Anwer
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; (E.M.R.); (M.A.); (C.L.W.)
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Cheryl L. Wellington
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; (E.M.R.); (M.A.); (C.L.W.)
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Karen C. Cheung
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; (T.C.); (T.B.)
- Centre for Blood Research, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
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