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Roh SH, Mendez-Vazquez H, Sathler MF, Doolittle MJ, Zaytseva A, Brown H, Sainsbury M, Kim S. Prenatal exposure to valproic acid reduces synaptic δ-catenin levels and disrupts ultrasonic vocalization in neonates. Neuropharmacology 2024; 253:109963. [PMID: 38657945 PMCID: PMC11127754 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.109963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Valproic acid (VPA) is an effective and commonly prescribed drug for epilepsy and bipolar disorder. However, children born from mothers treated with VPA during pregnancy exhibit an increased incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Although VPA may impair brain development at the cellular level, the mechanism of VPA-induced ASD has not been completely addressed. A previous study has found that VPA treatment strongly reduces δ-catenin mRNA levels in cultured human neurons. δ-catenin is important for the control of glutamatergic synapses and is strongly associated with ASD. VPA inhibits dendritic morphogenesis in developing neurons, an effect that is also found in neurons lacking δ-catenin expression. We thus hypothesize that prenatal exposure to VPA significantly reduces δ-catenin levels in the brain, which impairs glutamatergic synapses to cause ASD. Here, we found that prenatal exposure to VPA markedly reduced δ-catenin levels in the brain of mouse pups. VPA treatment also impaired dendritic branching in developing mouse cortical neurons, which was partially reversed by elevating δ-catenin expression. Prenatal VPA exposure significantly reduced synaptic α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor levels and postsynaptic density 95 (PSD95) in the brain of mouse pups, indicating dysfunctions in glutamatergic synaptic transmission. VPA exposure also significantly altered ultrasonic vocalization (USV) in newly born pups when they were isolated from their nest. Moreover, VPA-exposed pups show impaired hypothalamic response to isolation, which is required to produce animals' USVs following isolation from the nest. Therefore, these results suggest that VPA-induced ASD pathology can be mediated by the loss of δ-catenin functions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Morgan Sainsbury
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Seonil Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, USA; Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences Program, USA.
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Kushnireva L, Segal M, Korkotian E. Cultured Rat Hippocampal Neurons Exposed to the Mitochondrial Uncoupler Carbonyl Cyanide Chlorophenylhydrazone Undergo a Rapid, Presenilin-Dependent Change in Neuronal Properties. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:578. [PMID: 38203751 PMCID: PMC10779238 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010578] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Presenilin 1 (PS1) is a transmembrane proteolytic subunit of γ-secretase that cleaves amyloid precursor proteins. Mutations in PS1 (mPS1) are associated with early-onset familial Alzheimer's disease (AD). The link between mutated PS1, mitochondrial calcium regulation, and AD has been studied extensively in different test systems. Despite the wide-ranging role of mPS1 in AD, there is a paucity of information on the link between PS1 and neuronal cell death, a hallmark of AD. In the present study, we employed the selective mitochondrial uncoupler carbonyl cyanide chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP) and compared the reactivity of mPS1-transfected cultured rat hippocampal neurons with PS1 and control neurons in a situation of impaired mitochondrial functions. CCCP causes a slow rise in cytosolic and mitochondrial calcium in all three groups of neurons, with the mPS1 neurons demonstrating a faster rise. Consequently, mPS1 neurons were depolarized by CCCP and measured with TMRM, a mitochondrial voltage indicator, more than the other two groups. Morphologically, CCCP produced more filopodia in mPS1 neurons than in the other two groups, which were similarly affected by the drug. Finally, mPS1 transfected neurons tended to die from prolonged exposure to CCCP sooner than the other groups, indicating an increase in vulnerability associated with a lower ability to regulate excess cytosolic calcium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliia Kushnireva
- Faculty of Biology, Perm State University, 614068 Perm, Russia;
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Menahem Segal
- Department of Brain Sciences, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel;
| | - Eduard Korkotian
- Department of Brain Sciences, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel;
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Roh SH, Mendez-Vazquez H, Sathler MF, Doolittle MJ, Zaytseva A, Brown H, Sainsbury M, Kim S. Prenatal exposure to valproic acid reduces synaptic δ-catenin levels and disrupts ultrasonic vocalization in neonates. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.14.571709. [PMID: 38168404 PMCID: PMC10760095 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.14.571709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Valproic acid (VPA) is an effective and commonly prescribed drug for epilepsy and bipolar disorder. However, children born from mothers treated with VPA during pregnancy exhibit an increased incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Although VPA may impair brain development at the cellular level, the mechanism of VPA-induced ASD has not been completely addressed. A previous study has found that VPA treatment strongly reduces δ-catenin mRNA levels in cultured human neurons. δ-catenin is important for the control of glutamatergic synapses and is strongly associated with ASD. VPA inhibits dendritic morphogenesis in developing neurons, an effect that is also found in neurons lacking δ-catenin expression. We thus hypothesize that prenatal exposure to VPA significantly reduces δ-catenin levels in the brain, which impairs glutamatergic synapses to cause ASD. Here, we found that prenatal exposure to VPA markedly reduced δ-catenin levels in the brain of mouse pups. VPA treatment also impaired dendritic branching in developing mouse cortical neurons, which was reversed by elevating δ-catenin expression. Prenatal VPA exposure significantly reduced synaptic AMPA receptor levels and postsynaptic density 95 (PSD95) in the brain of mouse pups, indicating dysfunctions in glutamatergic synaptic transmission. VPA exposure also significantly altered ultrasonic vocalization (USV) in newly born pups when they were isolated from their nest. Moreover, VPA-exposed pups show impaired hypothalamic response to isolation, which is required to produce animals' USVs following isolation from the nest. Therefore, these results suggest that VPA-induced ASD pathology can be mediated by the loss of δ-catenin functions. Highlights Prenatal exposure of valproic acid (VPA) in mice significantly reduces synaptic δ-catenin protein and AMPA receptor levels in the pups' brains.VPA treatment significantly impairs dendritic branching in cultured cortical neurons, which is reversed by increased δ-catenin expression.VPA exposed pups exhibit impaired communication such as ultrasonic vocalization.Neuronal activation linked to ultrasonic vocalization is absent in VPA-exposed pups.The loss of δ-catenin functions underlies VPA-induced autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in early childhood.
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Mackiewicz J, Lisek M, Boczek T. Targeting CaN/NFAT in Alzheimer's brain degeneration. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1281882. [PMID: 38077352 PMCID: PMC10701682 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1281882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a progressive loss of cognitive functions. While the exact causes of this debilitating disorder remain elusive, numerous investigations have characterized its two core pathologies: the presence of β-amyloid plaques and tau tangles. Additionally, multiple studies of postmortem brain tissue, as well as results from AD preclinical models, have consistently demonstrated the presence of a sustained inflammatory response. As the persistent immune response is associated with neurodegeneration, it became clear that it may also exacerbate other AD pathologies, providing a link between the initial deposition of β-amyloid plaques and the later development of neurofibrillary tangles. Initially discovered in T cells, the nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT) is one of the main transcription factors driving the expression of inflammatory genes and thus regulating immune responses. NFAT-dependent production of inflammatory mediators is controlled by Ca2+-dependent protein phosphatase calcineurin (CaN), which dephosphorylates NFAT and promotes its transcriptional activity. A substantial body of evidence has demonstrated that aberrant CaN/NFAT signaling is linked to several pathologies observed in AD, including neuronal apoptosis, synaptic deficits, and glia activation. In view of this, the role of NFAT isoforms in AD has been linked to disease progression at different stages, some of which are paralleled to diminished cognitive status. The use of classical inhibitors of CaN/NFAT signaling, such as tacrolimus or cyclosporine, or adeno-associated viruses to specifically inhibit astrocytic NFAT activation, has alleviated some symptoms of AD by diminishing β-amyloid neurotoxicity and neuroinflammation. In this article, we discuss the recent findings related to the contribution of CaN/NFAT signaling to the progression of AD and highlight the possible benefits of targeting this pathway in AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tomasz Boczek
- Department of Molecular Neurochemistry, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
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Zhang H, Knight C, Chen SRW, Bezprozvanny I. A Gating Mutation in Ryanodine Receptor Type 2 Rescues Phenotypes of Alzheimer's Disease Mouse Models by Upregulating Neuronal Autophagy. J Neurosci 2023; 43:1441-1454. [PMID: 36627208 PMCID: PMC9987572 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1820-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well established that ryanodine receptors (RyanRs) are overactive in Alzheimer's disease (AD), and it has been suggested that inhibition of RyanR is potentially beneficial for AD treatment. In the present study, we explored a potential connection between basal RyanR activity and autophagy in neurons. Autophagy plays an important role in clearing damaged organelles and long-lived protein aggregates, and autophagy dysregulation occurs in both AD patients and AD animal models. Autophagy is known to be regulated by intracellular calcium (Ca2+) signals, and our results indicated that basal RyanR2 activity in hippocampal neurons inhibited autophagy through activation of calcineurin and the resulting inhibition of the AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase)-ULK1 (unc-51-like autophagy-activating kinase 1) pathway. Thus, we hypothesized that increased basal RyanR2 activity in AD may lead to the inhibition of neuronal autophagy and accumulation of β-amyloid. To test this hypothesis, we took advantage of the RyanR2-E4872Q knock-in mouse model (EQ) in which basal RyanR2 activity is reduced because of shortened channel open time. We discovered that crossing EQ mice with the APPKI and APPPS1 mouse models of AD (both males and females) rescued amyloid accumulation and LTP impairment in these mice. Our results revealed that reduced basal activity of RyanR2-EQ channels disinhibited the autophagic pathway and led to increased amyloid clearance in these models. These data indicated a potential pathogenic outcome of RyanR2 overactivation in AD and also provided additional targets for therapeutic intervention in AD. Basal activity of ryanodine receptors controls neuronal autophagy and contributes to development of the AD phenotype.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT It is well established that neuronal autophagy is impaired in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Our results suggest that supranormal calcium (Ca2+) release from endoplasmic reticulum contributes to the inhibition of autophagy in AD and that reduction in basal activity of type 2 ryanodine receptors disinhibits the neuronal autophagic pathway and leads to increased amyloid clearance in AD models. Our findings directly link neuronal Ca2+ dysregulation with autophagy dysfunction in AD and point to additional targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Zhang
- Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Caitlynn Knight
- Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - S R Wayne Chen
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Ilya Bezprozvanny
- Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, St. Petersburg State Polytechnical Universty, St. Petersburg 195251, Russian Federation
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Mendez-Vazquez H, Roach RL, Nip K, Sathler MF, Garver T, Danzman RA, Moseley MC, Roberts JP, Koch ON, Steger AA, Lee R, Arikkath J, Kim S. The autism-associated loss of δ-catenin functions disrupts social behaviors. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.12.523372. [PMID: 36711484 PMCID: PMC9882145 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.12.523372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
δ-catenin is expressed in excitatory synapses and functions as an anchor for the glutamatergic AMPA receptor (AMPAR) GluA2 subunit in the postsynaptic density. The glycine 34 to serine (G34S) mutation in the δ-catenin gene is found in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) patients and induces loss of δ-catenin functions at excitatory synapses, which is presumed to underlie ASD pathogenesis in humans. However, how the G34S mutation causes loss of δ-catenin functions to induce ASD remains unclear. Here, using neuroblastoma cells, we discover that the G34S mutation generates an additional phosphorylation site for glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β). This promotes δ-catenin degradation and causes the reduction of δ-catenin levels, which likely contributes to the loss of δ-catenin functions. Synaptic δ-catenin and GluA2 levels in the cortex are significantly decreased in mice harboring the δ-catenin G34S mutation. The G34S mutation increases glutamatergic activity in cortical excitatory neurons while it is decreased in inhibitory interneurons, indicating changes in cellular excitation and inhibition. δ-catenin G34S mutant mice also exhibit social dysfunction, a common feature of ASD. Most importantly, inhibition of GSK3β activity reverses the G34S-induced loss of δ-catenin function effects in cells and mice. Finally, using δ-catenin knockout mice, we confirm that δ-catenin is required for GSK3β inhibition-induced restoration of normal social behaviors in δ-catenin G34S mutant animals. Taken together, we reveal that the loss of δ-catenin functions arising from the ASD-associated G34S mutation induces social dysfunction via alterations in glutamatergic activity and that GSK3β inhibition can reverse δ-catenin G34S-induced synaptic and behavioral deficits. Significance Statement δ-catenin is important for the localization and function of glutamatergic AMPA receptors at synapses in many brain regions. The glycine 34 to serine (G34S) mutation in the δ-catenin gene is found in autism patients and results in the loss of δ-catenin functions. δ-catenin expression is also closely linked to other autism-risk genes involved in synaptic structure and function, further implying that it is important for the autism pathophysiology. Importantly, social dysfunction is a key characteristic of autism. Nonetheless, the links between δ-catenin functions and social behaviors are largely unknown. The significance of the current research is thus predicated on filling this gap by discovering the molecular, cellular, and synaptic underpinnings of the role of δ-catenin in social behaviors.
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Zhao YB, Hou XF, Li X, Zhu LS, Zhu J, Ma GR, Liu YX, Miao YC, Zhou QY, Xu L, Zhou QX. Early memory impairment is accompanied by changes in GluA1/p-GluA1 in APP/PS1 mice. Curr Alzheimer Res 2022; 19:CAR-EPUB-127089. [PMID: 36278470 DOI: 10.2174/1567205020666221019124543] [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: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Exploring the neurobiological mechanisms of early AD damage Background: The early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) has a very important impact on the prognosis of AD. However, the early symptoms of AD are not obvious and difficult to diagnose. Existing studies have rarely explored the mechanism of early AD. AMPARs are early important learning memory-related receptors. However, it is not clear how the expression levels of AMPARs change in early AD. OBJECTIVE We explored learning memory abilities and AMPAR expression changes in APP/PS1 mice at 4 months, 8 months, and 12 months. METHOD We used the classic Morris water maze to explore the learning and memory impairment of APP/PS1 mice and used western blotting to explore the changes in AMPARs in APP/PS1 mice. RESULT We found that memory impairment occurred in APP/PS1 mice as early as 4 months of age, and the impairment of learning and memory gradually became serious with age. The changes in GluA1 and p-GluA1 were most pronounced in the early stages of AD in APP/PS1 mice. CONCLUSION Our study found that memory impairment in APP/PS1 mice could be detected as early as 4 months of age, and this early injury may be related to GluA1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Bo Zhao
- Laboratory of Learning and Memory, Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650223, China
| | - Xue-Fei Hou
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Biomedical Engineering Research Institute, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Xin Li
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Biomedical Engineering Research Institute, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Li-Su Zhu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Biomedical Engineering Research Institute, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Jing Zhu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Biomedical Engineering Research Institute, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Guo-Rui Ma
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Biomedical Engineering Research Institute, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Yu-Xuan Liu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Biomedical Engineering Research Institute, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Yu-Can Miao
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Biomedical Engineering Research Institute, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Qian-Yu Zhou
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Biomedical Engineering Research Institute, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Lin Xu
- Laboratory of Learning and Memory, Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650223, China
| | - Qi-Xin Zhou
- Laboratory of Learning and Memory, Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650223, China
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Sathler MF, Doolittle MJ, Cockrell JA, Nadalin IR, Hofmann F, VandeWoude S, Kim S. HIV and FIV glycoproteins increase cellular tau pathology via cGMP-dependent kinase II activation. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:jcs259764. [PMID: 35638570 PMCID: PMC9270957 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
As the development of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) drastically improves the lifespan of individuals with HIV, many are now entering the prime age when Alzheimer's disease (AD)-like symptoms begin to manifest. It has been shown that hyperphosphorylated tau, a known AD pathological characteristic, is prematurely increased in the brains of HIV-infected individuals as early as in their 30s and that its levels increase with age. This suggests that HIV infection might lead to accelerated AD phenotypes. However, whether HIV infection causes AD to develop more quickly in the brain is not yet fully determined. Interestingly, we have previously revealed that the viral glycoproteins HIV gp120 and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) gp95 induce neuronal hyperexcitation via cGMP-dependent kinase II (cGKII; also known as PRKG2) activation in cultured hippocampal neurons. Here, we use cultured mouse cortical neurons to demonstrate that the presence of HIV gp120 and FIV gp95 are sufficient to increase cellular tau pathology, including intracellular tau hyperphosphorylation and tau release to the extracellular space. We further reveal that viral glycoprotein-induced cellular tau pathology requires cGKII activation. Taken together, HIV infection likely accelerates AD-related tau pathology via cGKII activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matheus F. Sathler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, 1617 Campus Delivery, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Michael J. Doolittle
- Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - James A. Cockrell
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - India R. Nadalin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, 1617 Campus Delivery, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Franz Hofmann
- Technical University of Munich, Arcisstraße 21, D-80333 Munich, Germany
| | - Sue VandeWoude
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Seonil Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, 1617 Campus Delivery, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
- Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
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Sanderson JL, Freund RK, Gorski JA, Dell'Acqua ML. β-Amyloid disruption of LTP/LTD balance is mediated by AKAP150-anchored PKA and Calcineurin regulation of Ca 2+-permeable AMPA receptors. Cell Rep 2021; 37:109786. [PMID: 34610314 PMCID: PMC8530450 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulated insertion and removal of postsynaptic AMPA glutamate receptors (AMPARs) mediates hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD) synaptic plasticity underlying learning and memory. In Alzheimer’s disease β-amyloid (Aβ) oligomers may impair learning and memory by altering AMPAR trafficking and LTP/LTD balance. Importantly, Ca2+-permeable AMPARs (CP-AMPARs) assembled from GluA1 subunits are excluded from hippocampal synapses basally but can be recruited rapidly during LTP and LTD to modify synaptic strength and signaling. By employing mouse knockin mutations that disrupt anchoring of the kinase PKA or phosphatase Calcineurin (CaN) to the postsynaptic scaffold protein AKAP150, we find that local AKAP-PKA signaling is required for CP-AMPAR recruitment, which can facilitate LTP but also, paradoxically, prime synapses for Aβ impairment of LTP mediated by local AKAP-CaN LTD signaling that promotes subsequent CP-AMPAR removal. These findings highlight the importance of PKA/CaN signaling balance and CP-AMPARs in normal plasticity and aberrant plasticity linked to disease. In Alzheimer’s disease, Aβ oligomers disrupt hippocampal neuronal plasticity and cognition. Sanderson et al. show how the postsynaptic scaffold protein AKAP150 coordinates PKA and Calcineurin regulation of Ca2+-permeable AMPA-type glutamate receptors to mediate disruption of synaptic plasticity by Aβ oligomers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Sanderson
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Ronald K Freund
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Jessica A Gorski
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Mark L Dell'Acqua
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; University of Colorado Alzheimer's and Cognition Center, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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10
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Deaton CA, Johnson GVW. Presenilin 1 Regulates Membrane Homeostatic Pathways that are Dysregulated in Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 77:961-977. [PMID: 32804090 DOI: 10.3233/jad-200598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in the PSEN1 gene, encoding presenilin 1 (PS1), are the most common cause of familial Alzheimer's disease (fAD). Since the first mutations in the PSEN1 gene were discovered more than 25 years ago, many postulated functions of PS1 have been investigated. The majority of earlier studies focused on its role as the catalytic component of the γ-secretase complex, which in concert with β site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1), mediates the formation of Aβ from amyloid-β protein precursor (AβPP). Though mutant PS1 was originally considered to cause AD by promoting Aβ pathology through its protease function, it is now becoming clear that PS1 is a multifunctional protein involved in regulating membrane dynamics and protein trafficking. Therefore, through loss of these abilities, mutant PS1 has the potential to impair numerous cellular functions such as calcium flux, organization of proteins in different compartments, and protein turnover via vacuolar metabolism. Impaired calcium signaling, vacuolar dysfunction, mitochondrial dysfunction, and increased ER stress, among other related membrane-dependent disturbances, have been considered critical to the development and progression of AD. Given that PS1 plays a key regulatory role in all these processes, this review will describe the role of PS1 in different cellular compartments and provide an integrated view of how PS1 dysregulation (due to mutations or other causes) could result in impairment of various cellular processes and result in a "multi-hit", integrated pathological outcome that could contribute to the etiology of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol A Deaton
- Cell Biology of Disease Program and the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Gail V W Johnson
- Cell Biology of Disease Program and the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
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11
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Tran TM, Sherwood JK, Doolittle MJ, Sathler MF, Hofmann F, Stone-Roy LM, Kim S. Loss of cGMP-dependent protein kinase II alters ultrasonic vocalizations in mice, a model for speech impairment in human microdeletion 4q21 syndrome. Neurosci Lett 2021; 759:136048. [PMID: 34126178 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Chromosome 4q21 microdeletion leads to a human syndrome that exhibits restricted growth, facial dysmorphisms, mental retardation, and absent or delayed speech. One of the key genes in the affected region of the chromosome is PRKG2, which encodes cGMP-dependent protein kinase II (cGKII). Mice lacking cGKII exhibit restricted growth and deficits in learning and memory, as seen in the human syndrome. However, vocalization impairments in these mice have not been determined. The molecular pathway underlying vocalization impairment in humans is not fully understood. Here, we employed cGKII knockout (KO) mice as a model for the human microdeletion syndrome to test whether vocalizations are affected by loss of the PRKG2 gene. Mice emit ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) to communicate in social situations, stress, and isolation. We thus recorded ultrasonic vocalizations as a model for human speech. We isolated postnatal day 5-7 pups from the nest to record and analyze USVs and found significant differences in vocalizations of KO mice relative to wild-type and heterozygous mutant mice. KO mice produced fewer calls that were shorter duration and higher frequency. Because neuronal activation in the arcuate nucleus in the hypothalamus is important for the production of animal USVs following isolation from the nest, we assessed neuronal activity in the arcuate nucleus of KO pups following isolation. We found significant reduction of neuronal activation in cGKII KO pups after isolation. Taken together, our studies indicate that cGKII is important for neuronal activation in the arcuate nucleus, which significantly contributes to the production of USVs in neonatal mice. We further suggest cGKII KO mice can be a valuable animal model to investigate pathophysiology of human microdeletion 4q21 syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany M Tran
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Jessica K Sherwood
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Michael J Doolittle
- Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Matheus F Sathler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | | | - Leslie M Stone-Roy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA.
| | - Seonil Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA.
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12
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Calmodulin and Its Binding Proteins in Parkinson's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063016. [PMID: 33809535 PMCID: PMC8001340 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that manifests with rest tremor, muscle rigidity and movement disturbances. At the microscopic level it is characterized by formation of specific intraneuronal inclusions, called Lewy bodies (LBs), and by a progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the striatum and substantia nigra. All living cells, among them neurons, rely on Ca2+ as a universal carrier of extracellular and intracellular signals that can initiate and control various cellular processes. Disturbances in Ca2+ homeostasis and dysfunction of Ca2+ signaling pathways may have serious consequences on cells and even result in cell death. Dopaminergic neurons are particularly sensitive to any changes in intracellular Ca2+ level. The best known and studied Ca2+ sensor in eukaryotic cells is calmodulin. Calmodulin binds Ca2+ with high affinity and regulates the activity of a plethora of proteins. In the brain, calmodulin and its binding proteins play a crucial role in regulation of the activity of synaptic proteins and in the maintenance of neuronal plasticity. Thus, any changes in activity of these proteins might be linked to the development and progression of neurodegenerative disorders including PD. This review aims to summarize published results regarding the role of calmodulin and its binding proteins in pathology and pathogenesis of PD.
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13
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Roberts JP, Stokoe SA, Sathler MF, Nichols RA, Kim S. Selective coactivation of α7- and α4β2-nicotinic acetylcholine receptors reverses beta-amyloid-induced synaptic dysfunction. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100402. [PMID: 33571523 PMCID: PMC7961090 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Beta-amyloid (Aβ) has been recognized as an early trigger in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) leading to synaptic and cognitive impairments. Aβ can alter neuronal signaling through interactions with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), contributing to synaptic dysfunction in AD. The three major nAChR subtypes in the hippocampus are composed of α7-, α4β2-, and α3β4-nAChRs. Aβ selectively affects α7- and α4β2-nAChRs, but not α3β4-nAChRs in hippocampal neurons, resulting in neuronal hyperexcitation. However, how nAChR subtype selectivity for Aβ affects synaptic function in AD is not completely understood. Here, we showed that Aβ associated with α7- and α4β2-nAChRs but not α3β4-nAChRs. Computational modeling suggested that two amino acids in α7-nAChRs, arginine 208 and glutamate 211, were important for the interaction between Aβ and α7-containing nAChRs. These residues are conserved only in the α7 and α4 subunits. We therefore mutated these amino acids in α7-containing nAChRs to mimic the α3 subunit and found that mutant α7-containing receptors were unable to interact with Aβ. In addition, mutant α3-containing nAChRs mimicking the α7 subunit interact with Aβ. This provides direct molecular evidence for how Aβ selectively interacted with α7- and α4β2-nAChRs, but not α3β4-nAChRs. Selective coactivation of α7- and α4β2-nAChRs also sufficiently reversed Aβ-induced AMPA receptor dysfunction, including Aβ-induced reduction of AMPA receptor phosphorylation and surface expression in hippocampal neurons. Moreover, costimulation of α7- and α4β2-nAChRs reversed the Aβ-induced disruption of long-term potentiation. These findings support a novel mechanism for Aβ's impact on synaptic function in AD, namely, the differential regulation of nAChR subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica P Roberts
- Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Sarah A Stokoe
- Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Matheus F Sathler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Robert A Nichols
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Hawai'i at Manoa, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Seonil Kim
- Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA.
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14
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Qu W, Yuan B, Liu J, Liu Q, Zhang X, Cui R, Yang W, Li B. Emerging role of AMPA receptor subunit GluA1 in synaptic plasticity: Implications for Alzheimer's disease. Cell Prolif 2020; 54:e12959. [PMID: 33188547 PMCID: PMC7791177 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well established that GluA1 mediated synaptic plasticity plays a central role in the early development of AD. The complex cellular and molecular mechanisms that enable GluA1‐related synaptic regulation remain to fully understood. Particularly, understanding the mechanisms that disrupt GluA1 related synaptic plasticity is central to the development of disease‐modifying therapies which are sorely needed as the incidence of AD rises. We surmise that the published evidence establishes deficits in synaptic plasticity as a central factor of AD aetiology. We additionally highlight potential therapeutic strategies for the treatment of AD, and we delve into the roles of GluA1 in learning and memory. Particularly, we review the current understanding of the molecular interactions that confer the actions of this ubiquitous excitatory receptor subunit including post‐translational modification and accessory protein recruitment of the GluA1 subunit. These are proposed to regulate receptor trafficking, recycling, channel conductance and synaptic transmission and plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenrui Qu
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Baoming Yuan
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Qianqian Liu
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Department of Burn Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ranji Cui
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wei Yang
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Bingjin Li
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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15
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Vasilopoulou F, Griñán-Ferré C, Rodríguez-Arévalo S, Bagán A, Abás S, Escolano C, Pallàs M. I 2 imidazoline receptor modulation protects aged SAMP8 mice against cognitive decline by suppressing the calcineurin pathway. GeroScience 2020; 43:965-983. [PMID: 33128688 PMCID: PMC8110656 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-020-00281-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain aging and dementia are current problems that must be solved. The levels of imidazoline 2 receptors (I2-IRs) are increased in the brain in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other neurodegenerative diseases. We tested the action of the specific and selective I2-IR ligand B06 in a mouse model of accelerated aging and AD, the senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) model. Oral administration of B06 for 4 weeks improved SAMP8 mouse behavior and cognition and reduced AD hallmarks, oxidative stress, and apoptotic and neuroinflammation markers. Likewise, B06 regulated glial excitatory amino acid transporter 2 and N-methyl-D aspartate 2A and 2B receptor subunit protein levels. Calcineurin (CaN) is a phosphatase that controls the phosphorylation levels of cAMP response element-binding (CREB), apoptotic mediator BCL-2-associated agonist of cell death (BAD) and GSK3β, among other molecules. Interestingly, B06 was able to reduce the levels of the CaN active form (CaN A). Likewise, CREB phosphorylation, BAD gene expression, and other factors were modified after B06 treatment. Moreover, phosphorylation of a target of CaN, nuclear factor of activated T-cells, cytoplasmic 1 (NFATC1), was increased in B06-treated mice, impeding the transcription of genes related to neuroinflammation and neural plasticity. In summary, this I2 imidazoline ligand can exert its beneficial effects on age-related conditions by modulating CaN pathway action and affecting several molecular pathways, playing a neuroprotective role in SAMP8 mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Foteini Vasilopoulou
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Neurociencies, University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Christian Griñán-Ferré
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Neurociencies, University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sergio Rodríguez-Arévalo
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry (Associated Unit to CSIC), Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrea Bagán
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry (Associated Unit to CSIC), Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sònia Abás
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry (Associated Unit to CSIC), Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Escolano
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry (Associated Unit to CSIC), Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercè Pallàs
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Neurociencies, University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain.
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16
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Tang J, Tang Y, Yi I, Chen DF. The role of commensal microflora-induced T cell responses in glaucoma neurodegeneration. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2020; 256:79-97. [PMID: 32958216 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2020.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Over the last decade, new evidence has become increasingly more compelling that commensal microflora profoundly influences the maturation and function of resident immune cells in host physiology. The concept of gut-retina axis is actively being explored. Studies have revealed a critical role of commensal microbes linked with neuronal stress, immune responses, and neurodegeneration in the retina. Microbial dysbiosis changes the blood-retina barrier permeability and modulates T cell-mediated autoimmunity to contribute to the pathogenesis of retinal diseases, such as glaucoma. Heat shock proteins (HSPs), which are evolutionarily conserved, are thought to function both as neuroprotectant and pathogenic antigens of T cells contributing to cell protection and tissue damage, respectively. Activated microglia recruit and interact with T cells during this process. Glaucoma, characterized by the progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells, is the leading cause of irreversible blindness. With nearly 70 million people suffering glaucoma worldwide, which doubles the number of patients with Alzheimer's disease, it represents the most frequent neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Thus, understanding the mechanism of neurodegeneration in glaucoma and its association with the function of commensal microflora may help unveil the secrets of many neurodegenerative disorders in the CNS and develop novel therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Sichuan, China; Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Yizhen Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Irvin Yi
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Dong Feng Chen
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.
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17
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Purkey AM, Dell’Acqua ML. Phosphorylation-Dependent Regulation of Ca 2+-Permeable AMPA Receptors During Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2020; 12:8. [PMID: 32292336 PMCID: PMC7119613 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2020.00008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Experience-dependent learning and memory require multiple forms of plasticity at hippocampal and cortical synapses that are regulated by N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDA) and α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA)-type ionotropic glutamate receptors (NMDAR, AMPAR). These plasticity mechanisms include long-term potentiation (LTP) and depression (LTD), which are Hebbian input-specific mechanisms that rapidly increase or decrease AMPAR synaptic strength at specific inputs, and homeostatic plasticity that globally scales-up or -down AMPAR synaptic strength across many or even all inputs. Frequently, these changes in synaptic strength are also accompanied by a change in the subunit composition of AMPARs at the synapse due to the trafficking to and from the synapse of receptors lacking GluA2 subunits. These GluA2-lacking receptors are most often GluA1 homomeric receptors that exhibit higher single-channel conductance and are Ca2+-permeable (CP-AMPAR). This review article will focus on the role of protein phosphorylation in regulation of GluA1 CP-AMPAR recruitment and removal from hippocampal synapses during synaptic plasticity with an emphasis on the crucial role of local signaling by the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) and the Ca2+calmodulin-dependent protein phosphatase 2B/calcineurin (CaN) that is coordinated by the postsynaptic scaffold protein A-kinase anchoring protein 79/150 (AKAP79/150).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark L. Dell’Acqua
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
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18
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Sun JL, Stokoe SA, Roberts JP, Sathler MF, Nip KA, Shou J, Ko K, Tsunoda S, Kim S. Co-activation of selective nicotinic acetylcholine receptors is required to reverse beta amyloid-induced Ca 2+ hyperexcitation. Neurobiol Aging 2019; 84:166-177. [PMID: 31629115 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2019.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Beta-amyloid (Aβ) peptide accumulation has long been implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Hippocampal network hyperexcitability in the early stages of the disease leads to increased epileptiform activity and eventually cognitive decline. We found that acute application of 250 nM soluble Aβ42 oligomers increased Ca2+ activity in hippocampal neurons in parallel with a significant decrease in activity in Aβ42-treated interneurons. A potential target of Aβ42 is the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR). Three major subtypes of nAChRs (α7, α4β2, and α3β4) have been reported in the human hippocampus. Simultaneous inhibition of both α7 and α4β2 nAChRs mimicked the Aβ42 effects on both excitatory and inhibitory neurons. However, inhibition of all 3 subtypes showed the opposite effect. Importantly, simultaneous activation of α7 and α4β2 nAChRs was required to reverse Aβ42-induced neuronal hyperexcitation. We suggest co-activation of α7 and α4β2 nAChRs is required to reverse Aβ42-induced Ca2+ hyperexcitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julianna L Sun
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA; Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences Program, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Sarah A Stokoe
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA; Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences Program, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Jessica P Roberts
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA; Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences Program, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Matheus F Sathler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Kaila A Nip
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Jiayi Shou
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Ko
- Poudre High School, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Susan Tsunoda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA; Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences Program, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Seonil Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA; Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences Program, Fort Collins, CO, USA; Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA.
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19
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Presenilin 1 Regulates [Ca 2+]i and Mitochondria/ER Interaction in Cultured Rat Hippocampal Neurons. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:7284967. [PMID: 31467635 PMCID: PMC6701405 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7284967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 05/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in the presenilin 1 (PS1) gene are a major trigger of familial Alzheimer's disease (AD), yet the mechanisms affected by mutated PS1 causing cognitive decline are not yet elucidated. In the present study, we compared rat hippocampal neurons in culture, transfected with PS1 or with mutant (M146V) PS1 (mPS1) plasmids in several neuronal functions. Initially, we confirmed earlier observations that mPS1-expressing neurons are endowed with fewer mature “mushroom” spines and more filopodial immature protrusions. The correlation between calcium changes in the cytosol, mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is mitigated in the mPS1 neurons, tested by the response to an abrupt increase in ambient [Ca2+]o; cytosolic [Ca2+]i is higher in the mPS1 neurons but mitochondrial [Ca2+] is lower than in control neurons. Strikingly, mPS1-transfected neurons express higher excitability and eventual lower survival rate when exposed to the oxidative stressor, paraquat. These results highlight an impaired calcium regulation in mPS1 neurons, resulting in a reduced ability to handle oxidative stress, which may lead to cell death and AD.
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20
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Shou J, Tran A, Snyder N, Bleem E, Kim S. Distinct Roles of GluA2-lacking AMPA Receptor Expression in Dopamine D1 or D2 Receptor Neurons in Animal Behavior. Neuroscience 2019; 398:102-112. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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21
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Liu Z, Thakar A, Santoro SW, Pratt KG. Presenilin Regulates Retinotectal Synapse Formation through EphB2 Receptor Processing. Dev Neurobiol 2018; 78:1171-1190. [PMID: 30246932 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Revised: 08/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
As the catalytic component of γ-secretase, presenilin (PS) has long been studied in the context of Alzheimer's disease through cleaving the amyloid precursor protein. PS/γ-secretase, however, also cleaves a multitude of single-pass transmembrane proteins that are important during development, including Notch, the netrin receptor DCC, cadherins, drebrin-A, and the EphB2 receptor. Because transgenic PS-KO mice do not survive to birth, studies of this molecule during later embryonic or early postnatal stages of development have been carried out using cell cultures or conditional knock-out mice, respectively. As a result, the function of PS in synapse formation had not been well-addressed. Here, we study the role of PS in the developing Xenopus tadpole retinotectal circuit, an in-vivo model that allows for protein expression to be manipulated specifically during the peak of synapse formation between retinal ganglion cells and tectal neurons. We found that inhibiting PS in the postsynaptic tectal neurons impaired tadpole visual avoidance behavior. Whole cell recordings indicated weaker retinotectal synaptic transmission which was characterized by significant reductions in both NMDA receptor (NMDAR)- and AMPA receptor (AMPAR)-mediated currents. We also found that expression of the C-tail fragment of the EphB2 receptor, which is normally cleaved by PS/γ-secretase and which has been shown to upregulate NMDARs at the synapse, rescued the reduced NMDAR-mediated responses. Our data determine that normal PS function is important for proper formation and strengthening of retinotectal synapses through cleaving the EphB2 receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu Liu
- Department of Zoology and Physiology and Program in Neuroscience, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming
| | - Amit Thakar
- Department of Zoology and Physiology and Program in Neuroscience, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming
| | - Stephen W Santoro
- Department of Zoology and Physiology and Program in Neuroscience, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming
| | - Kara G Pratt
- Department of Zoology and Physiology and Program in Neuroscience, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming
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22
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Sztukowski K, Nip K, Ostwald PN, Sathler MF, Sun JL, Shou J, Jorgensen ET, Brown TE, Elder JH, Miller C, Hofmann F, VandeWoude S, Kim S. HIV induces synaptic hyperexcitation via cGMP-dependent protein kinase II activation in the FIV infection model. PLoS Biol 2018; 16:e2005315. [PMID: 30052626 PMCID: PMC6082575 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.2005315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Over half of individuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) suffer from HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HANDs), yet the molecular mechanisms leading to neuronal dysfunction are poorly understood. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) naturally infects cats and shares its structure, cell tropism, and pathology with HIV, including wide-ranging neurological deficits. We employ FIV as a model to elucidate the molecular pathways underlying HIV-induced neuronal dysfunction, in particular, synaptic alteration. Among HIV-induced neuron-damaging products, HIV envelope glycoprotein gp120 triggers elevation of intracellular Ca2+ activity in neurons, stimulating various pathways to damage synaptic functions. We quantify neuronal Ca2+ activity using intracellular Ca2+ imaging in cultured hippocampal neurons and confirm that FIV envelope glycoprotein gp95 also elevates neuronal Ca2+ activity. In addition, we reveal that gp95 interacts with the chemokine receptor, CXCR4, and facilitates the release of intracellular Ca2+ by the activation of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated Ca2+ channels, inositol triphosphate receptors (IP3Rs), and synaptic NMDA receptors (NMDARs), similar to HIV gp120. This suggests that HIV gp120 and FIV gp95 share a core pathological process in neurons. Significantly, gp95's stimulation of NMDARs activates cGMP-dependent protein kinase II (cGKII) through the activation of the neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS)-cGMP pathway, which increases Ca2+ release from the ER and promotes surface expression of AMPA receptors, leading to an increase in synaptic activity. Moreover, we culture feline hippocampal neurons and confirm that gp95-induced neuronal Ca2+ overactivation is mediated by CXCR4 and cGKII. Finally, cGKII activation is also required for HIV gp120-induced Ca2+ hyperactivation. These results thus provide a novel neurobiological mechanism of cGKII-mediated synaptic hyperexcitation in HAND.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keira Sztukowski
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Kaila Nip
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Paige N. Ostwald
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Matheus F. Sathler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Julianna L. Sun
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
- Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Jiayi Shou
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Emily T. Jorgensen
- Pharmaceutical Science and Neuroscience, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, United States of America
| | - Travis E. Brown
- Pharmaceutical Science and Neuroscience, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, United States of America
| | - John H. Elder
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Craig Miller
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | | | - Sue VandeWoude
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Seonil Kim
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
- Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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23
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Sompol P, Norris CM. Ca 2+, Astrocyte Activation and Calcineurin/NFAT Signaling in Age-Related Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Aging Neurosci 2018; 10:199. [PMID: 30038565 PMCID: PMC6046440 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2018.00199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mounting evidence supports a fundamental role for Ca2+ dysregulation in astrocyte activation. Though the activated astrocyte phenotype is complex, cell-type targeting approaches have revealed a number of detrimental roles of activated astrocytes involving neuroinflammation, release of synaptotoxic factors and loss of glutamate regulation. Work from our lab and others has suggested that the Ca2+/calmodulin dependent protein phosphatase, calcineurin (CN), provides a critical link between Ca2+ dysregulation and the activated astrocyte phenotype. A proteolyzed, hyperactivated form of CN appears at high levels in activated astrocytes in both human tissue and rodent tissue around regions of amyloid and vascular pathology. Similar upregulation of the CN-dependent transcription factor nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT4) also appears in activated astrocytes in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease (ADs) and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Major consequences of hyperactivated CN/NFAT4 signaling in astrocytes are neuroinflammation, synapse dysfunction and glutamate dysregulation/excitotoxicity, which will be covered in this review article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradoldej Sompol
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Christopher M Norris
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States.,Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States
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Presenilins as Drug Targets for Alzheimer's Disease-Recent Insights from Cell Biology and Electrophysiology as Novel Opportunities in Drug Development. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19061621. [PMID: 29857474 PMCID: PMC6032171 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19061621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2018] [Revised: 05/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
A major cause underlying familial Alzheimer's disease (AD) are mutations in presenilin proteins, presenilin 1 (PS1) and presenilin 2 (PS2). Presenilins are components of the γ-secretase complex which, when mutated, can affect amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing to toxic forms of amyloid beta (Aβ). Consequently, presenilins have been the target of numerous and varied research efforts to develop therapeutic strategies for AD. The presenilin 1 gene harbors the largest number of AD-causing mutations resulting in the late onset familial form of AD. As a result, the majority of efforts for drug development focused on PS1 and Aβ. Soon after the discovery of the major involvement of PS1 and PS2 in γ-secretase activity, it became clear that neuronal signaling, particularly calcium ion (Ca2+) signaling, is regulated by presenilins and impacted by mutations in presenilin genes. Intracellular Ca2+ signaling not only controls the activity of neurons, but also gene expression patterns, structural functionality of the cytoskeleton, synaptic connectivity and viability. Here, we will briefly review the role of presenilins in γ-secretase activity, then focus on the regulation of Ca2+ signaling, oxidative stress, and cellular viability by presenilins within the context of AD and discuss the relevance of presenilins in AD drug development efforts.
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Control of Homeostatic Synaptic Plasticity by AKAP-Anchored Kinase and Phosphatase Regulation of Ca 2+-Permeable AMPA Receptors. J Neurosci 2018; 38:2863-2876. [PMID: 29440558 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2362-17.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal information processing requires multiple forms of synaptic plasticity mediated by NMDARs and AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs). These plasticity mechanisms include long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD), which are Hebbian, homosynaptic mechanisms locally regulating synaptic strength of specific inputs, and homeostatic synaptic scaling, which is a heterosynaptic mechanism globally regulating synaptic strength across all inputs. In many cases, LTP and homeostatic scaling regulate AMPAR subunit composition to increase synaptic strength via incorporation of Ca2+-permeable receptors (CP-AMPAR) containing GluA1, but lacking GluA2, subunits. Previous work by our group and others demonstrated that anchoring of the kinase PKA and the phosphatase calcineurin (CaN) to A-kinase anchoring protein (AKAP) 150 play opposing roles in regulation of GluA1 Ser845 phosphorylation and CP-AMPAR synaptic incorporation during hippocampal LTP and LTD. Here, using both male and female knock-in mice that are deficient in PKA or CaN anchoring, we show that AKAP150-anchored PKA and CaN also play novel roles in controlling CP-AMPAR synaptic incorporation during homeostatic plasticity in hippocampal neurons. We found that genetic disruption of AKAP-PKA anchoring prevented increases in Ser845 phosphorylation and CP-AMPAR synaptic recruitment during rapid homeostatic synaptic scaling-up induced by combined blockade of action potential firing and NMDAR activity. In contrast, genetic disruption of AKAP-CaN anchoring resulted in basal increases in Ser845 phosphorylation and CP-AMPAR synaptic activity that blocked subsequent scaling-up by preventing additional CP-AMPAR recruitment. Thus, the balanced, opposing phospho-regulation provided by AKAP-anchored PKA and CaN is essential for control of both Hebbian and homeostatic plasticity mechanisms that require CP-AMPARs.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Neuronal circuit function is shaped by multiple forms of activity-dependent plasticity that control excitatory synaptic strength, including LTP/LTD that adjusts strength of individual synapses and homeostatic plasticity that adjusts overall strength of all synapses. Mechanisms controlling LTP/LTD and homeostatic plasticity were originally thought to be distinct; however, recent studies suggest that CP-AMPAR phosphorylation regulation is important during both LTP/LTD and homeostatic plasticity. Here we show that CP-AMPAR regulation by the kinase PKA and phosphatase CaN coanchored to the scaffold protein AKAP150, a mechanism previously implicated in LTP/LTD, is also crucial for controlling synaptic strength during homeostatic plasticity. These novel findings significantly expand our understanding of homeostatic plasticity mechanisms and further emphasize how intertwined they are with LTP and LTD.
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Han F, Zhuang TT, Chen JJ, Zhu XL, Cai YF, Lu YP. Novel derivative of Paeonol, Paeononlsilatie sodium, alleviates behavioral damage and hippocampal dendritic injury in Alzheimer's disease concurrent with cofilin1/phosphorylated-cofilin1 and RAC1/CDC42 alterations in rats. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0185102. [PMID: 28934273 PMCID: PMC5608314 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a typical hippocampal amnesia and the most common senile dementia. Many studies suggest that cognitive impairments are more closely correlated with synaptic loss than the burden of amyloid deposits in AD progression. To date, there is no effective treatment for this disease. Paeonol has been widely employed in traditional Chinese medicine. This compound improves learning behavior in an animal model; however, the mechanism remains unclear. In this study, Paeononlsilatie sodium (Pa), a derivative of Paeonol, attenuated D-galactose (D-gal) and AlCl3-induced behavioral damages in rats based on evaluations of the open field test (OFT), elevated plus maze test (EPMT), and Morris water maze test (MWMT). Pa increased the dendritic complexity and the density of dendritic spines. Correlation analysis indicated that morphological changes in neuronal dendrites are closely correlated with behavioral changes. Pa treatment reduced the production of Aβ, affected the phosphorylation and redistribution of cofilin1 and inhibited rod-like formation in hippocampal neurons. The induction of D-gal and AlCl3 promoted the expression of RAC1/CDC42 expression; however, the tendency of gene expression was inhibited by pretreatment with Pa. Taken together, our results suggest that Pa may represent a novel therapeutic agent for the improvement of cognitive and emotional behaviors and dendritic morphology in an AD animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Han
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | | | - Jing-Jing Chen
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Xiu-Ling Zhu
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
- Department of Anatomy, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Ya-Fei Cai
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Ya-Ping Lu
- College of Life Science, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
- * E-mail:
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Shah SZA, Zhao D, Taglialatela G, Khan SH, Hussain T, Dong H, Lai M, Zhou X, Yang L. Early Minocycline and Late FK506 Treatment Improves Survival and Alleviates Neuroinflammation, Neurodegeneration, and Behavioral Deficits in Prion-Infected Hamsters. Neurotherapeutics 2017; 14:463-483. [PMID: 28083805 PMCID: PMC5398981 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-016-0500-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion infections of the central nervous system (CNS) are characterized by initial reactive gliosis followed by overt neuronal death. Gliosis is likely to be caused initially by the deposition of misfolded, proteinase K-resistant, isoforms (termed PrPSc) of the normal cellular prion protein (PrPc) in the brain. Proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines released by PrPSc-activated glia and stressed neurons may also contribute directly or indirectly to the disease development by enhancing gliosis and inducing neurotoxicity. Recent studies have illustrated that early neuroinflammation activates nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) in the calcineurin signaling cascade, resulting in nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) to promote apoptosis. Hence, useful therapeutic approaches to slow down the course of prion disease development should control early inflammatory responses to suppress NFAT signaling. Here we used a hamster model of prion diseases to test, for the first time, the neuroprotective and NFAT-suppressive effect of a second-generation semisynthetic tetracycline derivative, minocycline, versus a calcineurin inhibitor, FK506, with known NFAT suppressive activity. Our results indicate that prolonged treatment with minocycline, starting from the presymptomatic stage of prion disease was more effective than FK506 given either during the presymptomatic or symptomatic stage of prion disease. Specifically, minocycline treatment reduced the expression of the astrocyte activation marker glial fibrillary acidic protein and of the microglial activation marker ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule-1, subsequently reducing the level of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin 1β and tumor necrosis factor-α. We further found that minocycline and FK506 treatment inhibited mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 phosphorylation and NF-κB nuclear translocation in a caspase-dependent manner, and enhanced phosphorylated cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element-binding protein and phosphorylated Bcl2-associated death promoter levels to reduce cognitive impairment and apoptosis. Taken together, our results indicate that minocycline is a better choice for prolonged use in prion diseases and encourage its further clinical development as a possible treatment for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Zahid Ali Shah
- National Animal Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Deming Zhao
- National Animal Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Giulio Taglialatela
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555-1044, USA
| | - Sher Hayat Khan
- National Animal Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Tariq Hussain
- National Animal Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Haodi Dong
- National Animal Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Mengyu Lai
- National Animal Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xiangmei Zhou
- National Animal Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Lifeng Yang
- National Animal Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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Inhibition of Calcineurin A by FK506 Suppresses Seizures and Reduces the Expression of GluN2B in Membrane Fraction. Neurochem Res 2017; 42:2154-2166. [PMID: 28299629 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-017-2221-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2016] [Revised: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
FK506, a calcineurin inhibitor, shows neuroprotective effects and has been associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Calcineurin A (CaNA), a catalytic subunit of calcineurin, mediates the dephosphorylation of various proteins. N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (GluN) is closely related to epileptogenesis, and various phosphorylation sites of GluN2B, a regulatory subunit of the GluN complex, have different functions. Thus, we hypothesized that one of the potential anti-epileptic mechanisms of FK506 is mediated by its ability to promote the phosphorylation of GluN2B and reduce the expression of GluN2B in membrane fraction by down-regulating CaNA. CaNA expression was increased in the cortex of patients with temporal lobe epilepsy and pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced epileptic models. CaNA was shown to be expressed in neurons using immunofluorescence staining. According to our behavioral observations, epileptic rats exhibited less severe seizures and were less sensitive to PTZ after a systemic injection of FK506. The levels of phosphorylated GluN2B were decreased in epileptic rats but increased after the FK506 treatment. Moreover, there was no difference in the total GluN2B levels before and after FK506 treatment. However, the expression of GluN2B in membrane fraction was suppressed after FK506 treatment. Based on these results, FK506 may reduce the severity and frequency of seizures by reducing the expression of GluN2B in membrane fraction.
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Shah SZA, Hussain T, Zhao D, Yang L. A central role for calcineurin in protein misfolding neurodegenerative diseases. Cell Mol Life Sci 2017; 74:1061-1074. [PMID: 27682820 PMCID: PMC11107525 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-016-2379-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Accumulation of misfolded/unfolded aggregated proteins in the brain is a hallmark of many neurodegenerative diseases affecting humans and animals. Dysregulation of calcium (Ca2+) and disruption of fast axonal transport (FAT) are early pathological events that lead to loss of synaptic integrity and axonal degeneration in early stages of neurodegenerative diseases. Dysregulated Ca2+ in the brain is triggered by accumulation of misfolded/unfolded aggregated proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), a major Ca2+ storing organelle, ultimately leading to neuronal dysfunction and apoptosis. Calcineurin (CaN), a Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent serine/threonine phosphatase, has been implicated in T cells activation through the induction of nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT). In addition to the involvement of several other signaling cascades, CaN has been shown to play a role in early synaptic dysfunction and neuronal death. Therefore, inhibiting hyperactivated CaN in early stages of disease might be a promising therapeutic strategy for treating patients with protein misfolding diseases. In this review, we briefly summarize the structure of CaN, inhibition mechanisms by which immunosuppressants inhibit CaN, role of CaN in maintaining neuronal and synaptic integrity and homeostasis and the role played by CaN in protein unfolding/misfolding neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Zahid Ali Shah
- National Animal Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Tariq Hussain
- National Animal Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Deming Zhao
- National Animal Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Lifeng Yang
- National Animal Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy Laboratory and Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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Lithium increases synaptic GluA2 in hippocampal neurons by elevating the δ-catenin protein. Neuropharmacology 2016; 113:426-433. [PMID: 27793771 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Revised: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Lithium (Li+) is a drug widely employed for treating bipolar disorder, however the mechanism of action is not known. Here we study the effects of Li+ in cultured hippocampal neurons on a synaptic complex consisting of δ-catenin, a protein associated with cadherins whose mutation is linked to autism, and GRIP, an AMPA receptor (AMPAR) scaffolding protein, and the AMPAR subunit, GluA2. We show that Li+ elevates the level of δ-catenin in cultured neurons. δ-catenin binds to the ABP and GRIP proteins, which are synaptic scaffolds for GluA2. We show that Li+ increases the levels of GRIP and GluA2, consistent with Li+-induced elevation of δ-catenin. Using GluA2 mutants, we show that the increase in surface level of GluA2 requires GluA2 interaction with GRIP. The amplitude but not the frequency of mEPSCs was also increased by Li+ in cultured hippocampal neurons, confirming a functional effect and consistent with AMPAR stabilization at synapses. Furthermore, animals fed with Li+ show elevated synaptic levels of δ-catenin, GRIP, and GluA2 in the hippocampus, also consistent with the findings in cultured neurons. This work supports a model in which Li+ stabilizes δ-catenin, thus elevating a complex consisting of δ-catenin, GRIP and AMPARs in synapses of hippocampal neurons. Thus, the work suggests a mechanism by which Li+ can alter brain synaptic function that may be relevant to its pharmacologic action in treatment of neurological disease.
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31
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The Emerging Roles of the Calcineurin-Nuclear Factor of Activated T-Lymphocytes Pathway in Nervous System Functions and Diseases. J Aging Res 2016; 2016:5081021. [PMID: 27597899 PMCID: PMC5002468 DOI: 10.1155/2016/5081021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The ongoing epidemics of metabolic diseases and increase in the older population have increased the incidences of neurodegenerative diseases. Evidence from murine and cell line models has implicated calcineurin-nuclear factor of activated T-lymphocytes (NFAT) signaling pathway, a Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent major proinflammatory pathway, in the pathogenesis of these diseases. Neurotoxins such as amyloid-β, tau protein, and α-synuclein trigger abnormal calcineurin/NFAT signaling activities. Additionally increased activities of endogenous regulators of calcineurin like plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase (PMCA) and regulator of calcineurin 1 (RCAN1) also cause neuronal and glial loss and related functional alterations, in neurodegenerative diseases, psychotic disorders, epilepsy, and traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries. Treatment with calcineurin/NFAT inhibitors induces some degree of neuroprotection and decreased reactive gliosis in the central and peripheral nervous system. In this paper, we summarize and discuss the current understanding of the roles of calcineurin/NFAT signaling in physiology and pathologies of the adult and developing nervous system, with an emphasis on recent reports and cutting-edge findings. Calcineurin/NFAT signaling is known for its critical roles in the developing and adult nervous system. Its role in physiological and pathological processes is still controversial. However, available data suggest that its beneficial and detrimental effects are context-dependent. In view of recent reports calcineurin/NFAT signaling is likely to serve as a potential therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases and conditions. This review further highlights the need to characterize better all factors determining the outcome of calcineurin/NFAT signaling in diseases and the downstream targets mediating the beneficial and detrimental effects.
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Kim S, Pick JE, Abera S, Khatri L, Ferreira DDP, Sathler MF, Morison SL, Hofmann F, Ziff EB. Brain region-specific effects of cGMP-dependent kinase II knockout on AMPA receptor trafficking and animal behavior. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 23:435-41. [PMID: 27421896 PMCID: PMC4947234 DOI: 10.1101/lm.042960.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Phosphorylation of GluA1, a subunit of AMPA receptors (AMPARs), is critical for AMPAR synaptic trafficking and control of synaptic transmission. cGMP-dependent protein kinase II (cGKII) mediates this phosphorylation, and cGKII knockout (KO) affects GluA1 phosphorylation and alters animal behavior. Notably, GluA1 phosphorylation in the KO hippocampus is increased as a functional compensation for gene deletion, while such compensation is absent in the prefrontal cortex. Thus, there are brain region-specific effects of cGKII KO on AMPAR trafficking, which could affect animal behavior. Here, we show that GluA1 phosphorylation levels differ in various brain regions, and specific behaviors are altered according to region-specific changes in GluA1 phosphorylation. Moreover, we identified distinct regulations of phosphatases in different brain regions, leading to regional heterogeneity of GluA1 phosphorylation in the KO brain. Our work demonstrates region-specific changes in GluA1 phosphorylation in cGKII KO mice and corresponding effects on cognitive performance. We also reveal distinct regulation of phosphatases in different brain region in which region-specific effects of kinase gene KO arise and can selectively alter animal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seonil Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York 10016, New York, USA
| | - Joseph E Pick
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York 10016, New York, USA
| | - Sinedu Abera
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York 10016, New York, USA
| | - Latika Khatri
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York 10016, New York, USA
| | - Danielle D P Ferreira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York 10016, New York, USA Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Fluminense Federal University, Niteroi 24210-130, Brazil
| | - Matheus F Sathler
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York 10016, New York, USA Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Fluminense Federal University, Niteroi 24210-130, Brazil
| | - Sage L Morison
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York 10016, New York, USA Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York 10012, USA
| | - Franz Hofmann
- Technical University of Munich, Munich 80802, Germany
| | - Edward B Ziff
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York 10016, New York, USA
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33
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Fernandes D, Carvalho AL. Mechanisms of homeostatic plasticity in the excitatory synapse. J Neurochem 2016; 139:973-996. [PMID: 27241695 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Brain development, sensory information processing, and learning and memory processes depend on Hebbian forms of synaptic plasticity, and on the remodeling and pruning of synaptic connections. Neurons in networks implicated in these processes carry out their functions while facing constant perturbation; homeostatic responses are therefore required to maintain neuronal activity within functional ranges for proper brain function. Here, we will review in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrating that several mechanisms underlie homeostatic plasticity of excitatory synapses, and identifying participant molecular players. Emerging evidence suggests a link between disrupted homeostatic synaptic plasticity and neuropsychiatric and neurologic disorders. Hebbian forms of synaptic plasticity, such as long-term potentiation (LTP), induce long-lasting changes in synaptic strength, which can be destabilizing and drive activity to saturation. Conversely, homeostatic plasticity operates to compensate for prolonged activity changes, stabilizing neuronal firing within a dynamic physiological range. We review mechanisms underlying homeostatic plasticity, and address how neurons integrate distinct forms of plasticity for proper brain function. This article is part of a mini review series: "Synaptic Function and Dysfunction in Brain Diseases".
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominique Fernandes
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,PDBEB-Doctoral Program in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine, Interdisciplinary Research Institute (III-UC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Luísa Carvalho
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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