1
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Kim J, Bustamante E, Sotonyi P, Maxwell N, Parameswaran P, Kent JK, Wetsel WC, Soderblom EJ, Rácz B, Soderling SH. Presynaptic Rac1 in the hippocampus selectively regulates working memory. eLife 2024; 13:RP97289. [PMID: 39046788 PMCID: PMC11268886 DOI: 10.7554/elife.97289] [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] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
One of the most extensively studied members of the Ras superfamily of small GTPases, Rac1 is an intracellular signal transducer that remodels actin and phosphorylation signaling networks. Previous studies have shown that Rac1-mediated signaling is associated with hippocampal-dependent working memory and longer-term forms of learning and memory and that Rac1 can modulate forms of both pre- and postsynaptic plasticity. How these different cognitive functions and forms of plasticity mediated by Rac1 are linked, however, is unclear. Here, we show that spatial working memory in mice is selectively impaired following the expression of a genetically encoded Rac1 inhibitor at presynaptic terminals, while longer-term cognitive processes are affected by Rac1 inhibition at postsynaptic sites. To investigate the regulatory mechanisms of this presynaptic process, we leveraged new advances in mass spectrometry to identify the proteomic and post-translational landscape of presynaptic Rac1 signaling. We identified serine/threonine kinases and phosphorylated cytoskeletal signaling and synaptic vesicle proteins enriched with active Rac1. The phosphorylated sites in these proteins are at positions likely to have regulatory effects on synaptic vesicles. Consistent with this, we also report changes in the distribution and morphology of synaptic vesicles and in postsynaptic ultrastructure following presynaptic Rac1 inhibition. Overall, this study reveals a previously unrecognized presynaptic role of Rac1 signaling in cognitive processes and provides insights into its potential regulatory mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaebin Kim
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University School of MedicineDurhamUnited States
| | - Edwin Bustamante
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University School of MedicineDurhamUnited States
| | - Peter Sotonyi
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, University of Veterinary MedicineBudapestHungary
| | - Nicholas Maxwell
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University School of MedicineDurhamUnited States
| | - Pooja Parameswaran
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University School of MedicineDurhamUnited States
| | - Julie K Kent
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University School of MedicineDurhamUnited States
| | - William C Wetsel
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University School of MedicineDurhamUnited States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of MedicineDurhamUnited States
- Mouse Behavioral and Neuroendocrine Analysis Core Facility, Duke University School of MedicineDurhamUnited States
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University School of MedicineDurhamUnited States
| | - Erik J Soderblom
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University School of MedicineDurhamUnited States
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Shared Resource and Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University School of MedicineDurhamUnited States
| | - Bence Rácz
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, University of Veterinary MedicineBudapestHungary
| | - Scott H Soderling
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University School of MedicineDurhamUnited States
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University School of MedicineDurhamUnited States
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2
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Hoisington ZW, Salvi A, Laguesse S, Ehinger Y, Shukla C, Phamluong K, Ron D. The Small G-Protein Rac1 in the Dorsomedial Striatum Promotes Alcohol-Dependent Structural Plasticity and Goal-Directed Learning in Mice. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e1644232024. [PMID: 38886056 PMCID: PMC11255432 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1644-23.2024] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The small G-protein Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) promotes the formation of filamentous actin (F-actin). Actin is a major component of dendritic spines, and we previously found that alcohol alters actin composition and dendritic spine structure in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and the dorsomedial striatum (DMS). To examine if Rac1 contributes to these alcohol-mediated adaptations, we measured the level of GTP-bound active Rac1 in the striatum of mice following 7 weeks of intermittent access to 20% alcohol. We found that chronic alcohol intake activates Rac1 in the DMS of male mice. In contrast, Rac1 is not activated by alcohol in the NAc and DLS of male mice or in the DMS of female mice. Similarly, closely related small G-proteins are not activated by alcohol in the DMS, and Rac1 activity is not increased in the DMS by moderate alcohol or natural reward. To determine the consequences of alcohol-dependent Rac1 activation in the DMS of male mice, we inhibited endogenous Rac1 by infecting the DMS of mice with an adeno-associated virus (AAV) expressing a dominant negative form of the small G-protein (Rac1-DN). We found that overexpression of AAV-Rac1-DN in the DMS inhibits alcohol-mediated Rac1 signaling and attenuates alcohol-mediated F-actin polymerization, which corresponded with a decrease in dendritic arborization and spine maturation. Finally, we provide evidence to suggest that Rac1 in the DMS plays a role in alcohol-associated goal-directed learning. Together, our data suggest that Rac1 in the DMS plays an important role in alcohol-dependent structural plasticity and aberrant learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary W Hoisington
- Alcohol and Addiction Research Group, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94107
| | - Alexandra Salvi
- Alcohol and Addiction Research Group, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94107
| | - Sophie Laguesse
- GIGA-Stem Cells and GIGA-Neurosciences, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA-R), University of Liège, Liège 4000, Belgium
| | - Yann Ehinger
- Alcohol and Addiction Research Group, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94107
| | - Chhavi Shukla
- Alcohol and Addiction Research Group, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94107
| | - Khanhky Phamluong
- Alcohol and Addiction Research Group, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94107
| | - Dorit Ron
- Alcohol and Addiction Research Group, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94107
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3
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Anjum R, Clarke VRJ, Nagasawa Y, Murakoshi H, Paradis S. Rem2 interacts with CaMKII at synapses and restricts long-term potentiation in hippocampus. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301063. [PMID: 38995900 PMCID: PMC11244776 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Synaptic plasticity, the process whereby neuronal connections are either strengthened or weakened in response to stereotyped forms of stimulation, is widely believed to represent the molecular mechanism that underlies learning and memory. The holoenzyme calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) plays a well-established and critical role in the induction of a variety of forms of synaptic plasticity such as long-term potentiation (LTP), long-term depression (LTD) and depotentiation. Previously, we identified the GTPase Rem2 as a potent, endogenous inhibitor of CaMKII. Here, we report that knock out of Rem2 enhances LTP at the Schaffer collateral to CA1 synapse in hippocampus, consistent with an inhibitory action of Rem2 on CaMKII in vivo. Further, re-expression of WT Rem2 rescues the enhanced LTP observed in slices obtained from Rem2 conditional knock out (cKO) mice, while expression of a mutant Rem2 construct that is unable to inhibit CaMKII in vitro fails to rescue increased LTP. In addition, we demonstrate that CaMKII and Rem2 interact in dendritic spines using a 2pFLIM-FRET approach. Taken together, our data lead us to propose that Rem2 serves as a brake on synaptic potentiation via inhibition of CaMKII activity. Further, the enhanced LTP phenotype we observe in Rem2 cKO slices reveals a previously unknown role for Rem2 in the negative regulation of CaMKII function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabia Anjum
- Department of Biology and Volen Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, Waltham, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Vernon R. J. Clarke
- Department of Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Yutaro Nagasawa
- Department of Physiological Sciences, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies; Hayama, Kanagawa, Japan
- Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences; Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
| | - Hideji Murakoshi
- Department of Physiological Sciences, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies; Hayama, Kanagawa, Japan
- Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences; Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
| | - Suzanne Paradis
- Department of Biology and Volen Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, Waltham, Massachusetts, United States of America
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4
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Kaizuka T, Takumi T. Alteration of synaptic protein composition during developmental synapse maturation. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:2894-2914. [PMID: 38571321 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
The postsynaptic density (PSD) is a collection of specialized proteins assembled beneath the postsynaptic membrane of dendritic spines. The PSD proteome comprises ~1000 proteins, including neurotransmitter receptors, scaffolding proteins and signalling enzymes. Many of these proteins have essential roles in synaptic function and plasticity. During brain development, changes are observed in synapse density and in the stability and shape of spines, reflecting the underlying molecular maturation of synapses. Synaptic protein composition changes in terms of protein abundance and the assembly of protein complexes, supercomplexes and the physical organization of the PSD. Here, we summarize the developmental alterations of postsynaptic protein composition during synapse maturation. We describe major PSD proteins involved in postsynaptic signalling that regulates synaptic plasticity and discuss the effect of altered expression of these proteins during development. We consider the abnormality of synaptic profiles and synaptic protein composition in the brain in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders. We also explain differences in synapse development between rodents and primates in terms of synaptic profiles and protein composition. Finally, we introduce recent findings related to synaptic diversity and nanoarchitecture and discuss their impact on future research. Synaptic protein composition can be considered a major determinant and marker of synapse maturation in normality and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Kaizuka
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Kobe University School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Toru Takumi
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Kobe University School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
- RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan
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5
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Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a debilitating form of pain arising from injury or disease of the nervous system that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, the underlying mechanisms of neuropathic pain are still not fully understood. Dendritic spines are small protrusions on the surface of neurons that play an important role in synaptic transmission. Recent studies have shown that dendritic spines reorganize in the superficial and deeper laminae of the spinal cord dorsal horn with the development of neuropathic pain in multiple models of disease or injury. Given the importance of dendritic spines in synaptic transmission, it is possible that studying dendritic spines could lead to new therapeutic approaches for managing intractable pain. In this review article, we highlight the emergent role of dendritic spines in neuropathic pain, as well as discuss the potential for studying dendritic spines for the development of new therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Curtis A Benson
- Department of Neurology and Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Rehabilitation Research Center, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jared F King
- Department of Neurology and Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Rehabilitation Research Center, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marike L Reimer
- Department of Neurology and Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Rehabilitation Research Center, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sierra D Kauer
- Department of Neurology and Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Rehabilitation Research Center, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Stephen G Waxman
- Department of Neurology and Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Rehabilitation Research Center, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Andrew M Tan
- Department of Neurology and Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Rehabilitation Research Center, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
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6
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Hoisington ZW, Salvi A, Laguesse S, Ehinger Y, Shukla C, Phamluong K, Ron D. The small G-protein Rac1 in the dorsomedial striatum promotes alcohol-dependent structural plasticity and goal-directed learning in mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.08.30.555562. [PMID: 37693512 PMCID: PMC10491244 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.30.555562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
The small G-protein Rac1 promotes the formation of filamentous actin (F-Actin). Actin is a major component of dendritic spines, and we previously found that alcohol alters actin composition and dendritic spine structure in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and the dorsomedial striatum (DMS). To examine if Rac1 contributes to these alcohol-mediated adaptations, we measured the level of GTP-bound active Rac1 in the striatum of mice following 7 weeks of intermittent access to 20% alcohol. We found that chronic alcohol intake activates Rac1 in the DMS of male mice. In contrast, Rac1 is not activated by alcohol in the NAc and DLS of male mice, or in the DMS of female mice. Similarly, closely related small G-proteins are not activated by alcohol in the DMS, and Rac1 activity is not increased in the DMS by moderate alcohol or natural reward. To determine the consequences of alcohol-dependent Rac1 activation in the DMS of male mice, we inhibited endogenous Rac1 by infecting the DMS of mice with an AAV expressing a dominant negative form of the small G-protein (Rac1-DN). We found that overexpression of AAV-Rac1-DN in the DMS inhibits alcohol-mediated Rac1 signaling and attenuates alcohol-mediated F-actin polymerization, which corresponded with a decrease in dendritic arborization and spine maturation. Finally, we provide evidence to suggest that Rac1 in the DMS plays a role in alcohol-associated goal-directed learning. Together, our data suggest that Rac1 in the DMS plays an important role in alcohol-dependent structural plasticity and aberrant learning. Significance Statement Addiction, including alcohol use disorder, is characterized by molecular and cellular adaptations that promote maladaptive behaviors. We found that Rac1 was activated by alcohol in the dorsomedial striatum (DMS) of male mice. We show that alcohol-mediated Rac1 signaling is responsible for alterations in actin dynamics and neuronal morphology. We also present data to suggest that Rac1 is important for alcohol-associated learning processes. These results suggest that Rac1 in the DMS is an important contributor to adaptations that promote alcohol use disorder.
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7
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Kim J, Bustamante E, Sotonyi P, Maxwell ND, Parameswaran P, Kent JK, Wetsel WC, Soderblom EJ, Rácz B, Soderling SH. Presynaptic Rac1 in the hippocampus selectively regulates working memory. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.18.585488. [PMID: 38562715 PMCID: PMC10983896 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.18.585488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
One of the most extensively studied members of the Ras superfamily of small GTPases, Rac1 is an intracellular signal transducer that remodels actin and phosphorylation signaling networks. Previous studies have shown that Rac1-mediated signaling is associated with hippocampal-dependent working memory and longer-term forms of learning and memory and that Rac1 can modulate forms of both pre- and postsynaptic plasticity. How these different cognitive functions and forms of plasticity mediated by Rac1 are linked, however, is unclear. Here, we show that spatial working memory is selectively impaired following the expression of a genetically encoded Rac1-inhibitor at presynaptic terminals, while longer-term cognitive processes are affected by Rac1 inhibition at postsynaptic sites. To investigate the regulatory mechanisms of this presynaptic process, we leveraged new advances in mass spectrometry to identify the proteomic and post-translational landscape of presynaptic Rac1 signaling. We identified serine/threonine kinases and phosphorylated cytoskeletal signaling and synaptic vesicle proteins enriched with active Rac1. The phosphorylated sites in these proteins are at positions likely to have regulatory effects on synaptic vesicles. Consistent with this, we also report changes in the distribution and morphology of synaptic vesicles and in postsynaptic ultrastructure following presynaptic Rac1 inhibition. Overall, this study reveals a previously unrecognized presynaptic role of Rac1 signaling in cognitive processes and provides insights into its potential regulatory mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaebin Kim
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical School, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Edwin Bustamante
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical School, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Peter Sotonyi
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Nicholas D Maxwell
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical School, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Pooja Parameswaran
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical School, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Julie K Kent
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical School, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - William C Wetsel
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical School, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Mouse Behavioral and Neuroendocrine Analysis Core Facility, Duke University Medical School, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical School, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Erik J Soderblom
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical School, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Mouse Behavioral and Neuroendocrine Analysis Core Facility, Duke University Medical School, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Bence Rácz
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Scott H Soderling
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical School, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical School, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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8
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Anjum R, Clarke VRJ, Nagasawa Y, Murakoshi H, Paradis S. Rem2 interacts with CaMKII at synapses and restricts long-term potentiation in hippocampus. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.11.584540. [PMID: 38558974 PMCID: PMC10979978 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.11.584540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Synaptic plasticity, the process whereby neuronal connections are either strengthened or weakened in response to stereotyped forms of stimulation, is widely believed to represent the molecular mechanism that underlies learning and memory. The holoenzyme CaMKII plays a well-established and critical role in the induction of a variety of forms of synaptic plasticity such as long-term potentiation (LTP), long-term depression (LTD) and depotentiation. Previously, we identified the GTPase Rem2 as a potent, endogenous inhibitor of CaMKII. Here, we report that knock out of Rem2 enhances LTP at the Schaffer collateral to CA1 synapse in hippocampus, consistent with an inhibitory action of Rem2 on CaMKII in vivo. Further, re-expression of WT Rem2 rescues the enhanced LTP observed in slices obtained from Rem2 conditional knock out (cKO) mice, while expression of a mutant Rem2 construct that is unable to inhibit CaMKII in vitro fails to rescue increased LTP. In addition, we demonstrate that CaMKII and Rem2 interact in dendritic spines using a 2pFLIM-FRET approach. Taken together, our data lead us to propose that Rem2 serves as a brake on runaway synaptic potentiation via inhibition of CaMKII activity. Further, the enhanced LTP phenotype we observe in Rem2 cKO slices reveals a previously unknown role for Rem2 in the negative regulation of CaMKII function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabia Anjum
- Department of Biology and Volen Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, Waltham, Massachusetts 02454, United States of America
| | - Vernon R J Clarke
- Department of Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Yutaro Nagasawa
- Department of Physiological Sciences, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies; Hayama, Kanagawa 240-0193, Japan
- Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences; Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Hideji Murakoshi
- Department of Physiological Sciences, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies; Hayama, Kanagawa 240-0193, Japan
- Supportive Center for Brain Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences; Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Suzanne Paradis
- Department of Biology and Volen Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, Waltham, Massachusetts 02454, United States of America
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9
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Duan W, Cao D, Wang S, Cheng J. Serotonin 2A Receptor (5-HT 2AR) Agonists: Psychedelics and Non-Hallucinogenic Analogues as Emerging Antidepressants. Chem Rev 2024; 124:124-163. [PMID: 38033123 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Psychedelics make up a group of psychoactive compounds that induce hallucinogenic effects by activating the serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR). Clinical trials have demonstrated the traditional psychedelic substances like psilocybin as a class of rapid-acting and long-lasting antidepressants. However, there is a pressing need for rationally designed 5-HT2AR agonists that possess optimal pharmacological profiles in order to fully reveal the therapeutic potential of these agonists and identify safer drug candidates devoid of hallucinogenic effects. This Perspective provides an overview of the structure-activity relationships of existing 5-HT2AR agonists based on their chemical classifications and discusses recent advancements in understanding their molecular pharmacology at a structural level. The encouraging clinical outcomes of psychedelics in depression treatment have sparked drug discovery endeavors aimed at developing novel 5-HT2AR agonists with improved subtype selectivity and signaling bias properties, which could serve as safer and potentially nonhallucinogenic antidepressants. These efforts can be significantly expedited through the utilization of structure-based methods and functional selectivity-directed screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenwen Duan
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Dongmei Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Sheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Jianjun Cheng
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
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10
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Jeong J, Han W, Hong E, Pandey S, Li Y, Lu W, Roche KW. Regulation of NLGN3 and the Synaptic Rho-GEF Signaling Pathway by CDK5. J Neurosci 2023; 43:7264-7275. [PMID: 37699715 PMCID: PMC10621767 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2309-22.2023] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroligins (NLGNs) are postsynaptic cell adhesion molecules that are involved in synapse assembly and function. The NLGN gene family consists of 5 genes (NLGN1-3, 4X, and 4Y). NLGN3 forms heterodimers with other NLGNs and is expressed at both excitatory and inhibitory synapses, although the distinct role at different synapses is not fully understood. Cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) is a proline-directed serine/threonine kinase that targets various neuronal substrates to impact neuronal migration, neurite outgrowth, synaptic transmission, and plasticity. Both NLGNs and their presynaptic binding partners neurexins are highly associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. The NLGN3 gene is on the X chromosome and variants in NLGN3 have been linked to the pathophysiology in neurodevelopmental disorders. To better understand the endogenous modulation of NLGN3, we generated an HA-tagged knock-in mouse. We found that Cdk5 associates with NLGN3 in vivo and phosphorylates NLGN3 on serine 725 (S725) in the knock-in mouse of either sex. The phosphorylation affects the NLGN3 association with Kalirin-7, a postsynaptic guanine nucleotide exchange factors for Rho GTPase family proteins. We further observed that the phosphorylation modulates NLGN3 surface expression and NLGN3-mediated synaptic currents in cultured rat neurons. Thus, we characterized NLGN3 as a novel Cdk5 substrate and revealed the functional consequences of NLGN3 S725 phosphorylation in neurons. Our study provides a novel molecular mechanism underlying Cdk5-mediated regulation of postsynaptic cell adhesion molecules.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT NLGN3 is involved in synapse assembly and function at both excitatory and inhibitory synapses and has been associated with the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. Cdk5 has brain-specific activity and is involved in neuronal transmission, synapse function, and plasticity. Here, we characterize NLGN3 as a Cdk5 substrate for the first time and show that Cdk5-mediated phosphorylation regulates NLGN3 function. We demonstrate that NLGN3 S725 is a Cdk5 phosphorylation site, and reveal that the site is important for NLGN3 association with Kalirin-7, NLGN3 surface expression, and NLGN3-mediated synaptic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaehoon Jeong
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Wenyan Han
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Eunhye Hong
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Saurabh Pandey
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Yan Li
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Wei Lu
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
| | - Katherine W Roche
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
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11
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Nicoll RA, Schulman H. Synaptic memory and CaMKII. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:2877-2925. [PMID: 37290118 PMCID: PMC10642921 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00034.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and long-term potentiation (LTP) were discovered within a decade of each other and have been inextricably intertwined ever since. However, like many marriages, it has had its up and downs. Based on the unique biochemical properties of CaMKII, it was proposed as a memory molecule before any physiological linkage was made to LTP. However, as reviewed here, the convincing linkage of CaMKII to synaptic physiology and behavior took many decades. New technologies were critical in this journey, including in vitro brain slices, mouse genetics, single-cell molecular genetics, pharmacological reagents, protein structure, and two-photon microscopy, as were new investigators attracted by the exciting challenge. This review tracks this journey and assesses the state of this marriage 40 years on. The collective literature impels us to propose a relatively simple model for synaptic memory involving the following steps that drive the process: 1) Ca2+ entry through N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors activates CaMKII. 2) CaMKII undergoes autophosphorylation resulting in constitutive, Ca2+-independent activity and exposure of a binding site for the NMDA receptor subunit GluN2B. 3) Active CaMKII translocates to the postsynaptic density (PSD) and binds to the cytoplasmic C-tail of GluN2B. 4) The CaMKII-GluN2B complex initiates a structural rearrangement of the PSD that may involve liquid-liquid phase separation. 5) This rearrangement involves the PSD-95 scaffolding protein, α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors (AMPARs), and their transmembrane AMPAR-regulatory protein (TARP) auxiliary subunits, resulting in an accumulation of AMPARs in the PSD that underlies synaptic potentiation. 6) The stability of the modified PSD is maintained by the stability of the CaMKII-GluN2B complex. 7) By a process of subunit exchange or interholoenzyme phosphorylation CaMKII maintains synaptic potentiation in the face of CaMKII protein turnover. There are many other important proteins that participate in enlargement of the synaptic spine or modulation of the steps that drive and maintain the potentiation. In this review we critically discuss the data underlying each of the steps. As will become clear, some of these steps are more firmly grounded than others, and we provide suggestions as to how the evidence supporting these steps can be strengthened or, based on the new data, be replaced. Although the journey has been a long one, the prospect of having a detailed cellular and molecular understanding of learning and memory is at hand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger A Nicoll
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Howard Schulman
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States
- Panorama Research Institute, Sunnyvale, California, United States
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12
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Wang Y, Troughton LD, Xu F, Chatterjee A, Ding C, Zhao H, Cifuentes LP, Wagner RB, Wang T, Tan S, Chen J, Li L, Umulis D, Kuang S, Suter DM, Yuan C, Chan D, Huang F, Oakes PW, Deng Q. Atypical peripheral actin band formation via overactivation of RhoA and nonmuscle myosin II in mitofusin 2-deficient cells. eLife 2023; 12:e88828. [PMID: 37724949 PMCID: PMC10550287 DOI: 10.7554/elife.88828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell spreading and migration play central roles in many physiological and pathophysiological processes. We have previously shown that MFN2 regulates the migration of human neutrophil-like cells via suppressing Rac activation. Here, we show that in mouse embryonic fibroblasts, MFN2 suppresses RhoA activation and supports cell polarization. After initial spreading, the wild-type cells polarize and migrate, whereas the Mfn2-/- cells maintain a circular shape. Increased cytosolic Ca2+ resulting from the loss of Mfn2 is directly responsible for this phenotype, which can be rescued by expressing an artificial tether to bring mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum to close vicinity. Elevated cytosolic Ca2+ activates Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II, RhoA, and myosin light-chain kinase, causing an overactivation of nonmuscle myosin II, leading to a formation of a prominent F-actin ring at the cell periphery and increased cell contractility. The peripheral actin band alters cell physics and is dependent on substrate rigidity. Our results provide a novel molecular basis to understand how MFN2 regulates distinct signaling pathways in different cells and tissue environments, which is instrumental in understanding and treating MFN2-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueyang Wang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - Lee D Troughton
- Cell and Molecular Physiology, Loyola University ChicagoChicagoUnited States
| | - Fan Xu
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Beijing Institute of TechnologyBeijingChina
| | - Aritra Chatterjee
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - Chang Ding
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - Han Zhao
- Davidson School of Chemical Engineering, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - Laura P Cifuentes
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - Ryan B Wagner
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - Tianqi Wang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - Shelly Tan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - Jingjuan Chen
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - Linlin Li
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - David Umulis
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
- Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - Shihuan Kuang
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - Daniel M Suter
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
- Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
- Purdue Institute for Inflammation, Immunology & Infectious Disease, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - Chongli Yuan
- Davidson School of Chemical Engineering, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - Deva Chan
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - Fang Huang
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
| | - Patrick W Oakes
- Cell and Molecular Physiology, Loyola University ChicagoChicagoUnited States
| | - Qing Deng
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
- Purdue Institute for Inflammation, Immunology & Infectious Disease, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
- Purdue University Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University West LafayetteWest LafayetteUnited States
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13
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Bjornson KJ, Vanderplow AM, Yang Y, Anderson DR, Kermath BA, Cahill ME. Stress-mediated dysregulation of the Rap1 small GTPase impairs hippocampal structure and function. iScience 2023; 26:107566. [PMID: 37664580 PMCID: PMC10470260 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The effects of repeated stress on cognitive impairment are thought to be mediated, at least in part, by reductions in the stability of dendritic spines in brain regions critical for proper learning and memory, including the hippocampus. Small GTPases are particularly potent regulators of dendritic spine formation, stability, and morphology in hippocampal neurons. Through the use of small GTPase protein profiling in mice, we identify increased levels of synaptic Rap1 in the hippocampal CA3 region in response to escalating, intermittent stress. We then demonstrate that increased Rap1 in the CA3 is sufficient in and of itself to produce stress-relevant dendritic spine and cognitive phenotypes. Further, using super-resolution imaging, we investigate how the pattern of Rap1 trafficking to synapses likely underlies its effects on the stability of select dendritic spine subtypes. These findings illuminate the involvement of aberrant Rap1 regulation in the hippocampus in contributing to the psychobiological effects of stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn J. Bjornson
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Amanda M. Vanderplow
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Yezi Yang
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Danielle R. Anderson
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Bailey A. Kermath
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Michael E. Cahill
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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Chen L, Luo T, Cui W, Zhu M, Xu Z, Huang H. Kalirin is involved in epileptogenesis by modulating the activity of the Rac1 signaling pathway. J Chem Neuroanat 2023; 131:102289. [PMID: 37196826 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2023.102289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Epilepsy is a common chronic brain disease. Despite the availability of various anti-seizure drugs, approximately 30 % of patients do not respond to treatment. Recent research suggests that Kalirin plays a role in regulating neurological function. However, the pathogenesis of Kalirin in epileptic seizures remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the role and mechanism of Kalirin in epileptogenesis. MATERIALS AND METHODS An epileptic model was induced by intraperitoneal injection of pentylenetetrazole (PTZ). Endogenous Kalirin was inhibited using shRNA. The expression of Kalirin, Rac1, and Cdc42 in the hippocampal CA1 region was measured using Western blotting. Spine and synaptic structures were examined using Golgi staining and electron microscopy. Moreover, the necrotic neurons in CA1 were examined using HE staining. RESULTS The results indicated that the epileptic score increased in epileptic animals, while inhibition of Kalirin decreased the epileptic scores and increased the latent period of the first seizure attack. Inhibition of Kalirin attenuated the increases in Rac1 expression, dendritic spine density, and synaptic vesicle number in the CA1 region induced by PTZ. However, the increase in Cdc42 expression was not affected by the inhibition of Kalirin. CONCLUSION This study suggests that Kalirin is involved in the development of seizures by modulating the activity of Rac1, providing a novel anti-epileptic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Chen
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, 149 Dalian Road, Zunyi, Guizhou province 563003, China
| | - Ting Luo
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, 149 Dalian Road, Zunyi, Guizhou province 563003, China
| | - Wenxiu Cui
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, 149 Dalian Road, Zunyi, Guizhou province 563003, China
| | - ManMing Zhu
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, 149 Dalian Road, Zunyi, Guizhou province 563003, China
| | - Zucai Xu
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, 149 Dalian Road, Zunyi, Guizhou province 563003, China
| | - Hao Huang
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, 149 Dalian Road, Zunyi, Guizhou province 563003, China.
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Rochín-Hernández LJ, Jiménez-Acosta MA, Ramírez-Reyes L, Figueroa-Corona MDP, Sánchez-González VJ, Orozco-Barajas M, Meraz-Ríos MA. The Proteome Profile of Olfactory Ecto-Mesenchymal Stem Cells-Derived from Patients with Familial Alzheimer's Disease Reveals New Insights for AD Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12606. [PMID: 37628788 PMCID: PMC10454072 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common neurodegenerative disease and the first cause of dementia worldwide, has no effective treatment, and its pathological mechanisms are not yet fully understood. We conducted this study to explore the proteomic differences associated with Familial Alzheimer's Disease (FAD) in olfactory ecto-mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from PSEN1 (A431E) mutation carriers compared with healthy donors paired by age and gender through two label-free liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry approaches. The first analysis compared carrier 1 (patient with symptoms, P1) and its control (healthy donor, C1), and the second compared carrier 2 (patient with pre-symptoms, P2) with its respective control cells (C2) to evaluate whether the protein alterations presented in the symptomatic carrier were also present in the pre-symptom stages. Finally, we analyzed the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) for biological and functional enrichment. These proteins showed impaired expression in a stage-dependent manner and are involved in energy metabolism, vesicle transport, actin cytoskeleton, cell proliferation, and proteostasis pathways, in line with previous AD reports. Our study is the first to conduct a proteomic analysis of MSCs from the Jalisco FAD patients in two stages of the disease (symptomatic and presymptomatic), showing these cells as a new and excellent in vitro model for future AD studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lory J. Rochín-Hernández
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico; (L.J.R.-H.); (M.A.J.-A.); (M.d.P.F.-C.)
| | - Miguel A. Jiménez-Acosta
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico; (L.J.R.-H.); (M.A.J.-A.); (M.d.P.F.-C.)
| | - Lorena Ramírez-Reyes
- Unidad de Genómica, Proteómica y Metabolómica, Laboratorio Nacional de Servicios Experimentales (LaNSE), Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico;
| | - María del Pilar Figueroa-Corona
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico; (L.J.R.-H.); (M.A.J.-A.); (M.d.P.F.-C.)
| | - Víctor J. Sánchez-González
- Centro Universitario de Los Altos, Universidad de Guadalajara, Tepatitlán de Morelos 47620, Mexico; (V.J.S.-G.); (M.O.-B.)
| | - Maribel Orozco-Barajas
- Centro Universitario de Los Altos, Universidad de Guadalajara, Tepatitlán de Morelos 47620, Mexico; (V.J.S.-G.); (M.O.-B.)
| | - Marco A. Meraz-Ríos
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico; (L.J.R.-H.); (M.A.J.-A.); (M.d.P.F.-C.)
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16
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Patel PJ, Ren Y, Yan Z. Epigenomic analysis of Alzheimer's disease brains reveals diminished CTCF binding on genes involved in synaptic organization. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 184:106192. [PMID: 37302762 PMCID: PMC10519202 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic aberrations are suggested to play an important role in transcriptional alterations in Alzheimer's disease (AD). One of the key mechanisms of epigenetic regulation of gene expression is through the dynamic organization of chromatin structure via the master genome architecture protein, CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF). By forming chromatin loops, CTCF can influence gene transcription in a complex manner. To find out whether genome-wide DNA binding sites for CTCF are altered in AD, we compared CTCF chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-Seq) data from frontal cortex of human AD patients and normal controls (n = 9 pairs, all females). We have revealed that CTCF-binding affinity on many genes is significantly reduced in AD patients, and these genes are enriched in synaptic organization, cell adhesion, and actin cytoskeleton, including synaptic scaffolding molecules and receptors, such as SHANK2, HOMER1, NRXN1, CNTNAP2 and GRIN2A, and protocadherin (PCDH) and cadherin (CDH) family members. By comparing transcriptomic data from AD patients, we have discovered that many of the synaptic and adhesion genes with reduced CTCF binding in AD are significantly reduced in their mRNA expression. Moreover, a significant overlap of genes with the diminished CTCF binding and the reduced H3K27ac is identified in AD, with the common genes enriched in synaptic organization. These data suggest that the CTCF-controlled 3D chromatin organization is perturbed in AD, which may be linked to the diminished expression of target genes, probably through changes in histone modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prachetas J Patel
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Yong Ren
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Zhen Yan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA.
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17
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Yoon S, Santos MD, Forrest MP, Pratt CP, Khalatyan N, Mohler PJ, Savas JN, Penzes P. Early developmental deletion of forebrain Ank2 causes seizure-related phenotypes by reshaping the synaptic proteome. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112784. [PMID: 37428632 PMCID: PMC10566302 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112784] [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: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Rare genetic variants in ANK2, which encodes ankyrin-B, are associated with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs); however, their pathogenesis is poorly understood. We find that mice with prenatal deletion in cortical excitatory neurons and oligodendrocytes (Ank2-/-:Emx1-Cre), but not with adolescent deletion in forebrain excitatory neurons (Ank2-/-:CaMKIIα-Cre), display severe spontaneous seizures, increased mortality, hyperactivity, and social deficits. Calcium imaging of cortical slices from Ank2-/-:Emx1-Cre mice shows increased neuronal calcium event amplitude and frequency, along with network hyperexcitability and hypersynchrony. Quantitative proteomic analysis of cortical synaptic membranes reveals upregulation of dendritic spine plasticity-regulatory proteins and downregulation of intermediate filaments. Characterization of the ankyrin-B interactome identifies interactors associated with autism and epilepsy risk factors and synaptic proteins. The AMPA receptor antagonist, perampanel, restores cortical neuronal activity and partially rescues survival in Ank2-/-:Emx1-Cre mice. Our findings suggest that synaptic proteome alterations resulting from Ank2 deletion impair neuronal activity and synchrony, leading to NDDs-related behavioral impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehyoun Yoon
- Department of Neuroscience, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Marc Dos Santos
- Department of Neuroscience, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Marc P Forrest
- Department of Neuroscience, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Christopher P Pratt
- Department of Neuroscience, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Natalia Khalatyan
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Peter J Mohler
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Physiology, Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Frick Center for Heart Failure and Arrhythmia Research; Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jeffrey N Savas
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Peter Penzes
- Department of Neuroscience, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Northwestern University, Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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18
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Minegishi T, Kastian RF, Inagaki N. Mechanical regulation of synapse formation and plasticity. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2023; 140:82-89. [PMID: 35659473 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic spines are small protrusions arising from dendrites and constitute the major compartment of excitatory post-synapses. They change in number, shape, and size throughout life; these changes are thought to be associated with formation and reorganization of neuronal networks underlying learning and memory. As spines in the brain are surrounded by the microenvironment including neighboring cells and the extracellular matrix, their protrusion requires generation of force to push against these structures. In turn, neighboring cells receive force from protruding spines. Recent studies have identified BAR-domain proteins as being involved in membrane deformation to initiate spine formation. In addition, forces for dendritic filopodium extension and activity-induced spine expansion are generated through cooperation between actin polymerization and clutch coupling. On the other hand, force from expanding spines affects neurotransmitter release from presynaptic terminals. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of the physical aspects of synapse formation and plasticity, mainly focusing on spine dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takunori Minegishi
- Laboratory of Systems Neurobiology and Medicine, Division of Biological Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Ria Fajarwati Kastian
- Laboratory of Systems Neurobiology and Medicine, Division of Biological Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan; Research Center for Genetic Engineering, National Research and Innovation Agency Republic of Indonesia, Cibinong, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Naoyuki Inagaki
- Laboratory of Systems Neurobiology and Medicine, Division of Biological Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan.
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19
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Zaccard CR, Gippo I, Song A, Geula C, Penzes P. Dendritic spinule-mediated structural synaptic plasticity: Implications for development, aging, and psychiatric disease. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1059730. [PMID: 36741924 PMCID: PMC9895827 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1059730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendritic spines are highly dynamic and changes in their density, size, and shape underlie structural synaptic plasticity in cognition and memory. Fine membranous protrusions of spines, termed dendritic spinules, can contact neighboring neurons or glial cells and are positively regulated by neuronal activity. Spinules are thinner than filopodia, variable in length, and often emerge from large mushroom spines. Due to their nanoscale, spinules have frequently been overlooked in diffraction-limited microscopy datasets. Until recently, our knowledge of spinules has been interpreted largely from single snapshots in time captured by electron microscopy. We summarize herein the current knowledge about the molecular mechanisms of spinule formation. Additionally, we discuss possible spinule functions in structural synaptic plasticity in the context of development, adulthood, aging, and psychiatric disorders. The literature collectively implicates spinules as a mode of structural synaptic plasticity and suggests the existence of morphologically and functionally distinct spinule subsets. A recent time-lapse, enhanced resolution imaging study demonstrated that the majority of spinules are small, short-lived, and dynamic, potentially exploring their environment or mediating retrograde signaling and membrane remodeling via trans-endocytosis. A subset of activity-enhanced, elongated, long-lived spinules is associated with complex PSDs, and preferentially contacts adjacent axonal boutons not presynaptic to the spine head. Hence, long-lived spinules can form secondary synapses with the potential to alter synaptic connectivity. Published studies further suggest that decreased spinules are associated with impaired synaptic plasticity and intellectual disability, while increased spinules are linked to hyperexcitability and neurodegenerative diseases. In summary, the literature indicates that spinules mediate structural synaptic plasticity and perturbations in spinules can contribute to synaptic dysfunction and psychiatric disease. Additional studies would be beneficial to further delineate the molecular mechanisms of spinule formation and determine the exact role of spinules in development, adulthood, aging, and psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen R. Zaccard
- Department of Neuroscience, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Isabel Gippo
- Department of Neuroscience, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Amy Song
- Department of Neuroscience, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Changiz Geula
- Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer's Disease, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Peter Penzes
- Department of Neuroscience, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States,*Correspondence: Peter Penzes,
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20
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Kaur H, Sarmah D, Datta A, Borah A, Yavagal DR, Bhattacharya P. Endovascular Stem Cell Therapy Promotes Neuronal Remodeling to Enhance Post Stroke Recovery by Alleviating Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Modulated by BDNF Signaling. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:264-274. [PMID: 36251114 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-022-10461-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The impact of increased BDNF expression in brain by endovascular delivered mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) post stroke towards modulating endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress mediated neuronal remodeling has not been directly studied. Therefore, the present study investigates ER stress mediated neuronal remodeling following IA MSCs infusion in rodent model of ischemic stroke. METHODS Ovariectomized Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to MCAO followed by 1 × 105 IA MSCs administration at 6 h. Infarct and functional outcomes at different time points post-stroke were evaluated. Further, various genes and protein expression studies were performed to determine the underlying mechanisms of the effect of IA MSCs towards ER stress mediated neuronal remodeling. RESULTS Post-stroke IA MSCs administration significantly increased BDNF expression and decreased ER stress markers expression at day 1 post-stroke. A gradual rise in the expression of growth associate protein-43 (GAP 43) and spinophilin were observed at 7, 14- and 28-days post-stroke indicating an increase in neuronal remodeling towards functional restoration. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that IA MSCs post-stroke can modulate neuronal remodeling by BDNF-mediated reduction in ER stress that contribute towards functional recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harpreet Kaur
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India
| | - Deepaneeta Sarmah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India
| | - Aishika Datta
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India
| | - Anupom Borah
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Life Science and Bioinformatics, Assam University, Silchar, Assam, 788011, India
| | - Dileep R Yavagal
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Pallab Bhattacharya
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research-Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India.
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Ru Q, Lu Y, Saifullah AB, Blanco FA, Yao C, Cata JP, Li DP, Tolias KF, Li L. TIAM1-mediated synaptic plasticity underlies comorbid depression-like and ketamine antidepressant-like actions in chronic pain. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:e158545. [PMID: 36519542 PMCID: PMC9753999 DOI: 10.1172/jci158545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain often leads to depression, increasing patient suffering and worsening prognosis. While hyperactivity of the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) appears to be critically involved, the molecular mechanisms underlying comorbid depressive symptoms in chronic pain remain elusive. T cell lymphoma invasion and metastasis 1 (Tiam1) is a Rac1 guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) that promotes dendrite, spine, and synapse development during brain development. Here, we show that Tiam1 orchestrates synaptic structural and functional plasticity in ACC neurons via actin cytoskeleton reorganization and synaptic N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) stabilization. This Tiam1-coordinated synaptic plasticity underpins ACC hyperactivity and drives chronic pain-induced depressive-like behaviors. Notably, administration of low-dose ketamine, an NMDAR antagonist emerging as a promising treatment for chronic pain and depression, induces sustained antidepressant-like effects in mouse models of chronic pain by blocking Tiam1-mediated maladaptive synaptic plasticity in ACC neurons. Our results reveal Tiam1 as a critical factor in the pathophysiology of chronic pain-induced depressive-like behaviors and the sustained antidepressant-like effects of ketamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Ru
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, School of Physical Education, Jianghan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yungang Lu
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ali Bin Saifullah
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Francisco A. Blanco
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Changqun Yao
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Juan P. Cata
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - De-Pei Li
- Center for Precision Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Kimberley F. Tolias
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Lingyong Li
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Division of Molecular and Translational Biomedicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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22
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Liu S, Qi R, Zhang J, Zhang C, Chen L, Yao Z, Niu W. Kalirin mediates Rac1 activation downstream of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II to stimulate glucose uptake during muscle contraction. FEBS Lett 2022; 596:3159-3175. [PMID: 35716086 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the role of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) in contraction-stimulated glucose uptake in skeletal muscle. C2C12 myotubes were contracted by electrical pulse stimulation (EPS), and treadmill running was used to exercise mice. The activities of CaMKII, the small G protein Rac1, and the Rac1 effector kinase PAK1 were elevated in muscle by running exercise or EPS, while they were lowered by the CaMKII inhibitor KN-93 and/or small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated knockdown. EPS induced the mRNA and protein expression of the Rac1-GEF Kalirin in a CaMKII-dependent manner. EPS-induced Rac1 activation was lowered by the Kalirin inhibitor ITX3 or siRNA-mediated Kalirin knockdown. KN-93, ITX3, and siRNA-mediated Kalirin knockdown reduced EPS-induced glucose uptake. These findings define a CaMKII-Kalirin-Rac1 signaling pathway that contributes to contraction-stimulated glucose uptake in skeletal muscle myotubes and tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasa Liu
- School of Medical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Tianjin Medical University, China
| | - Rui Qi
- School of Medical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Tianjin Medical University, China
| | - Juan Zhang
- School of Medical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Tianjin Medical University, China
| | - Chang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, China
| | - Liming Chen
- School of Medical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Tianjin Medical University, China
| | - Zhi Yao
- School of Medical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Tianjin Medical University, China
| | - Wenyan Niu
- School of Medical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), NHC Key Laboratory of Hormones and Development, Tianjin Medical University, China
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23
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Parnell E, Voorn RA, Martin-de-Saavedra MD, Loizzo DD, Dos Santos M, Penzes P. A developmental delay linked missense mutation in Kalirin-7 disrupts protein function and neuronal morphology. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:994513. [PMID: 36533124 PMCID: PMC9751355 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.994513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The Rac1 guanine exchange factor Kalirin-7 is a key regulator of dendritic spine morphology, LTP and dendritic arborization. Kalirin-7 dysfunction and genetic variation has been extensively linked to various neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. Here we characterize a Kalirin-7 missense mutation, glu1577lys (E1577K), identified in a patient with severe developmental delay. The E1577K point mutation is located within the catalytic domain of Kalirin-7, and results in a robust reduction in Kalirin-7 Rac1 Guanosine exchange factor activity. In contrast to wild type Kalirin-7, the E1577K mutant failed to drive dendritic arborization, spine density, NMDAr targeting to, and activity within, spines. Together these results indicate that reduced Rac1-GEF activity as result of E1577K mutation impairs neuroarchitecture, connectivity and NMDAr activity, and is a likely contributor to impaired neurodevelopment in a patient with developmental delay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Euan Parnell
- Department of Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Roos A. Voorn
- Department of Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - M. Dolores Martin-de-Saavedra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Pharmacy, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel D. Loizzo
- Department of Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Marc Dos Santos
- Department of Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Peter Penzes
- Department of Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
- Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopment, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
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24
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Chatterjee D, Beaulieu JM. Inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase 3 by lithium, a mechanism in search of specificity. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1028963. [PMID: 36504683 PMCID: PMC9731798 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1028963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) is a popular explanation for the effects of lithium ions on mood regulation in bipolar disorder and other mental illnesses, including major depression, cyclothymia, and schizophrenia. Contribution of GSK3 is supported by evidence obtained from animal and patient derived model systems. However, the two GSK3 enzymes, GSK3α and GSK3β, have more than 100 validated substrates. They are thus central hubs for major biological functions, such as dopamine-glutamate neurotransmission, synaptic plasticity (Hebbian and homeostatic), inflammation, circadian regulation, protein synthesis, metabolism, inflammation, and mitochondrial functions. The intricate contributions of GSK3 to several biological processes make it difficult to identify specific mechanisms of mood stabilization for therapeutic development. Identification of GSK3 substrates involved in lithium therapeutic action is thus critical. We provide an overview of GSK3 biological functions and substrates for which there is evidence for a contribution to lithium effects. A particular focus is given to four of these: the transcription factor cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), the RNA-binding protein FXR1, kinesin subunits, and the cytoskeletal regulator CRMP2. An overview of how co-regulation of these substrates may result in shared outcomes is also presented. Better understanding of how inhibition of GSK3 contributes to the therapeutic effects of lithium should allow for identification of more specific targets for future drug development. It may also provide a framework for the understanding of how lithium effects overlap with those of other drugs such as ketamine and antipsychotics, which also inhibit brain GSK3.
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25
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Yasuda R, Hayashi Y, Hell JW. CaMKII: a central molecular organizer of synaptic plasticity, learning and memory. Nat Rev Neurosci 2022; 23:666-682. [PMID: 36056211 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-022-00624-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Calcium-calmodulin (CaM)-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) is the most abundant protein in excitatory synapses and is central to synaptic plasticity, learning and memory. It is activated by intracellular increases in calcium ion levels and triggers molecular processes necessary for synaptic plasticity. CaMKII phosphorylates numerous synaptic proteins, thereby regulating their structure and functions. This leads to molecular events crucial for synaptic plasticity, such as receptor trafficking, localization and activity; actin cytoskeletal dynamics; translation; and even transcription through synapse-nucleus shuttling. Several new tools affording increasingly greater spatiotemporal resolution have revealed the link between CaMKII activity and downstream signalling processes in dendritic spines during synaptic and behavioural plasticity. These technologies have provided insights into the function of CaMKII in learning and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryohei Yasuda
- Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, FL, USA.
| | - Yasunori Hayashi
- Department of Pharmacology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Johannes W Hell
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
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26
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Liu X, Wang J. NMDA receptors mediate synaptic plasticity impairment of hippocampal neurons due to arsenic exposure. Neuroscience 2022; 498:300-310. [PMID: 35905926 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Endemic arsenism is a worldwide health problem. Chronic arsenic exposure results in cognitive dysfunction due to arsenic and its metabolites accumulating in hippocampus. As the cellular basis of cognition, synaptic plasticity is pivotal in arsenic-induced cognitive dysfunction. N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) serve physiological functions in synaptic transmission. However, excessive NMDARs activity contributes to exitotoxicity and synaptic plasticity impairment. Here, we provide an overview of the mechanisms that NMDARs and their downstream signaling pathways mediate synaptic plasticity impairment due to arsenic exposure in hippocampal neurons, ways of arsenic exerting on NMDARs, as well as the potential therapeutic targets except for water improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaona Liu
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University(23618504), Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin, China, 150081
| | - Jing Wang
- Center for Endemic Disease Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Medical University, National Health Commission & Education Bureau of Heilongjiang Province, Key Laboratory of Etiology and Epidemiology, Harbin Medical University(23618504), Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Trace Elements and Human Health, Harbin, China, 150081.
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27
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Grubisha MJ, DeGiosio RA, Wills ZP, Sweet RA. Trio and Kalirin as unique enactors of Rho/Rac spatiotemporal precision. Cell Signal 2022; 98:110416. [PMID: 35872089 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Rac1 and RhoA are among the most widely studied small GTPases. The classic dogma surrounding their biology has largely focused on their activity as an "on/off switch" of sorts. However, the advent of more sophisticated techniques, such as genetically-encoded FRET-based sensors, has afforded the ability to delineate the spatiotemporal regulation of Rac1 and RhoA. As a result, there has been a shift from this simplistic global view to one incorporating the precision of spatiotemporal modularity. This review summarizes emerging data surrounding the roles of Rac1 and RhoA as cytoskeletal regulators and examines how these new data have led to a revision of the traditional dogma which placed Rac1 and RhoA in antagonistic pathways. This more recent evidence suggests that rather than absolute activity levels, it is the tight spatiotemporal regulation of Rac1 and RhoA across multiple roles, from oppositional to complementary, that is necessary to execute coordinated cytoskeletal processes affecting cell structure, function, and migration. We focus on how Kalirin and Trio, as dual GEFs that target Rac1 and RhoA, are uniquely designed to provide the spatiotemporally-precise shifts in Rac/Rho balance which mediate changes in neuronal structure and function, particularly by way of cytoskeletal rearrangements. Finally, we review how alterations in Trio and/or Kalirin function are associated with cellular abnormalities and neuropsychiatric disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Grubisha
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - R A DeGiosio
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Z P Wills
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - R A Sweet
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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28
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Mohanan AG, Gunasekaran S, Jacob RS, Omkumar RV. Role of Ca2+/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase Type II in Mediating Function and Dysfunction at Glutamatergic Synapses. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:855752. [PMID: 35795689 PMCID: PMC9252440 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.855752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Glutamatergic synapses harbor abundant amounts of the multifunctional Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase type II (CaMKII). Both in the postsynaptic density as well as in the cytosolic compartment of postsynaptic terminals, CaMKII plays major roles. In addition to its Ca2+-stimulated kinase activity, it can also bind to a variety of membrane proteins at the synapse and thus exert spatially restricted activity. The abundance of CaMKII in glutamatergic synapse is akin to scaffolding proteins although its prominent function still appears to be that of a kinase. The multimeric structure of CaMKII also confers several functional capabilities on the enzyme. The versatility of the enzyme has prompted hypotheses proposing several roles for the enzyme such as Ca2+ signal transduction, memory molecule function and scaffolding. The article will review the multiple roles played by CaMKII in glutamatergic synapses and how they are affected in disease conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archana G. Mohanan
- Neurobiology Division, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Sowmya Gunasekaran
- Neurobiology Division, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
- Research Scholar, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Reena Sarah Jacob
- Neurobiology Division, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
- Research Scholar, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - R. V. Omkumar
- Neurobiology Division, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, India
- *Correspondence: R. V. Omkumar,
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29
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Liu S, Zhang J, Qi R, Deng B, Ni Y, Zhang C, Niu W. CaMKII and Kalirin, a Rac1-GEF, regulate Akt phosphorylation involved in contraction-induced glucose uptake in skeletal muscle cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 610:170-175. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.03.152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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30
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Yang Y, Liu JJ. Structural LTP: Signal transduction, actin cytoskeleton reorganization, and membrane remodeling of dendritic spines. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2022; 74:102534. [DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2022.102534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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31
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Mai Le N, Li J. Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 role in Pathophysiology of Neurological diseases. BRAIN HEMORRHAGES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hest.2022.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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32
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Gross I, Brandt N, Vonk D, Köper F, Wöhlbrand L, Rabus R, Witt M, Heep A, Plösch T, Hipp MS, Bräuer AU. Plasticity-Related Gene 5 Is Expressed in a Late Phase of Neurodifferentiation After Neuronal Cell-Fate Determination. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:797588. [PMID: 35496908 PMCID: PMC9053830 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.797588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
During adult neurogenesis, neuronal stem cells differentiate into mature neurons that are functionally integrated into the existing network. One hallmark during the late phase of this neurodifferentiation process is the formation of dendritic spines. These morphological specialized structures form the basis of most excitatory synapses in the brain, and are essential for neuronal communication. Additionally, dendritic spines are affected in neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease or schizophrenia. However, the mechanisms underlying spinogenesis, as well as spine pathologies, are poorly understood. Plasticity-related Gene 5 (PRG5), a neuronal transmembrane protein, has previously been linked to spinogenesis in vitro. Here, we analyze endogenous expression of the PRG5 protein in different mouse brain areas, as well as on a subcellular level. We found that native PRG5 is expressed dendritically, and in high abundance in areas characterized by their regenerative capacity, such as the hippocampus and the olfactory bulb. During adult neurogenesis, PRG5 is specifically expressed in a late phase after neuronal cell-fate determination associated with dendritic spine formation. On a subcellular level, we found PRG5 not to be localized at the postsynaptic density, but at the base of the synapse. In addition, we showed that PRG5-induced formation of membrane protrusions is independent from neuronal activity, supporting a possible role in the morphology and stabilization of spines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Gross
- Research Group Anatomy, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Nicola Brandt
- Research Group Anatomy, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Danara Vonk
- Research Group Anatomy, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Franziska Köper
- Research Group Anatomy, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Perinatal Neurobiology Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Lars Wöhlbrand
- General and Molecular Microbiology, Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Ralf Rabus
- General and Molecular Microbiology, Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Martin Witt
- Department of Anatomy, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Axel Heep
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Perinatal Neurobiology Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Center Neurosensory Science, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Torsten Plösch
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Perinatal Neurobiology Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Center Neurosensory Science, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Mark S. Hipp
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Anja U. Bräuer
- Research Group Anatomy, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Center Neurosensory Science, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Anja U. Bräuer,
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33
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Li C, Liu S, Mei Y, Wang Q, Lu X, Li H, Tao F. Differential Effects of Sevoflurane Exposure on Long-Term Fear Memory in Neonatal and Adult Rats. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:2799-2807. [PMID: 35201592 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-021-02629-x] [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: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
It remains unclear whether exposure to sevoflurane produces different effects on long-term cognitive function in developing and mature brains. In the present study, Sprague-Dawley neonatal rats at postnatal day (PND) 7 and adult rats (PND 56) were used in all experiments. We performed fear conditioning testing to examine long-term fear memory following 4-h sevoflurane exposure. We assessed hippocampal synapse ultrastructure with a transmission electron microscope. Moreover, we investigated the effect of sevoflurane exposure on the expression of postsynaptic protein 95 (PSD-95) and its binding protein kalirin-7 in the hippocampus. We observed that early exposure to sevoflurane in neonatal rats impairs hippocampus-dependent fear memory, reduces hippocampal synapse density, and dramatically decreases the expressions of PSD-95 and kalirin-7 in the hippocampus of the developing brain. However, sevoflurane exposure in adult rats has no effects on hippocampus-dependent fear memory and hippocampal synapse density, and the expressions of PSD-95 and kalirin-7 in the adult hippocampus are not significantly altered following sevoflurane treatment. Our results indicate that sevoflurane exposure produces differential effects on long-term fear memory in neonatal and adult rats and that PSD-95 signaling may be involved in the molecular mechanism for early sevoflurane exposure-caused long-term fear memory impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changsheng Li
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Cognitive Function, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Sufang Liu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, 3302 Gaston Ave, Dallas, TX, 75023, USA
| | - Yixin Mei
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Qingyong Wang
- Department of Neurology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xihua Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Hongle Li
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 127 Dongming Road, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450008, China.
| | - Feng Tao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, 3302 Gaston Ave, Dallas, TX, 75023, USA.
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34
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Niu F, Han P, Zhang J, She Y, Yang L, Yu J, Zhuang M, Tang K, Shi Y, Yang B, Liu C, Peng B, Ji SJ. The m 6A reader YTHDF2 is a negative regulator for dendrite development and maintenance of retinal ganglion cells. eLife 2022; 11:75827. [PMID: 35179492 PMCID: PMC8906807 DOI: 10.7554/elife.75827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The precise control of growth and maintenance of the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) dendrite arborization is critical for normal visual functions in mammals. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we find that the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) reader YTHDF2 is highly expressed in the mouse RGCs. Conditional knockout (cKO) of Ythdf2 in the retina leads to increased RGC dendrite branching, resulting in more synapses in the inner plexiform layer. Interestingly, the Ythdf2 cKO mice show improved visual acuity compared with control mice. We further demonstrate that Ythdf2 cKO in the retina protects RGCs from dendrite degeneration caused by the experimental acute glaucoma model. We identify the m6A-modified YTHDF2 target transcripts which mediate these effects. This study reveals mechanisms by which YTHDF2 restricts RGC dendrite development and maintenance. YTHDF2 and its target mRNAs might be valuable in developing new treatment approaches for glaucomatous eyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fugui Niu
- Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Peng Han
- Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuanchu She
- Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lixin Yang
- Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mengru Zhuang
- Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kezhen Tang
- Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuwei Shi
- Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Baisheng Yang
- Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chunqiao Liu
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bo Peng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sheng-Jian Ji
- Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
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35
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Chen H, Zhang X, Xu C, An S, Ma XM, Qiao H. Endogenous Hippocampal Estrogen Is Involved in Stress-induced Depression-like Behaviors and Spine Plasticity in Male Rats. Neurosci Lett 2022; 785:136560. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2022.136560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Abstract
The cognitive dysfunction experienced by patients with schizophrenia represents a major unmet clinical need. We believe that enhancing synaptic function and plasticity by targeting kalirin may provide a novel means to remediate these symptoms. Karilin (a protein encoded by the KALRN gene) has multiple functional domains, including two Dbl homology (DH) guanine exchange factor (GEF) domains, which act to enhance the activity of the Rho family guanosine triphosphate (GTP)-ases. Here, we provide an overview of kalirin's roles in brain function and its therapeutic potential in schizophrenia. We outline how it mediates diverse effects via a suite of distinct isoforms that couple to members of the Rho GTPase family to regulate synapse formation and stabilisation, and how genomic and post-mortem data implicate it in schizophrenia. We then review the current state of knowledge about the influence of kalirin on brain function at a systems level, based largely on evidence from transgenic mouse models, which support its proposed role in regulating dendritic spine function and plasticity. We demonstrate that, whilst the GTPases are classically considered to be 'undruggable', targeting kalirin and other Rho GEFs provides a means to indirectly modulate their activity. Finally, we integrate across the information presented to assess the therapeutic potential of kalirin for schizophrenia and highlight the key outstanding questions required to advance it in this capacity; namely, the need for more information about the diversity and function of its isoforms, how these change across neurodevelopment, and how they affect brain function in vivo.
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Duman JG, Blanco FA, Cronkite CA, Ru Q, Erikson KC, Mulherkar S, Saifullah AB, Firozi K, Tolias KF. Rac-maninoff and Rho-vel: The symphony of Rho-GTPase signaling at excitatory synapses. Small GTPases 2022; 13:14-47. [PMID: 33955328 PMCID: PMC9707551 DOI: 10.1080/21541248.2021.1885264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Synaptic connections between neurons are essential for every facet of human cognition and are thus regulated with extreme precision. Rho-family GTPases, molecular switches that cycle between an active GTP-bound state and an inactive GDP-bound state, comprise a critical feature of synaptic regulation. Rho-GTPases are exquisitely controlled by an extensive suite of activators (GEFs) and inhibitors (GAPs and GDIs) and interact with many different signalling pathways to fulfill their roles in orchestrating the development, maintenance, and plasticity of excitatory synapses of the central nervous system. Among the mechanisms that control Rho-GTPase activity and signalling are cell surface receptors, GEF/GAP complexes that tightly regulate single Rho-GTPase dynamics, GEF/GAP and GEF/GEF functional complexes that coordinate multiple Rho-family GTPase activities, effector positive feedback loops, and mutual antagonism of opposing Rho-GTPase pathways. These complex regulatory mechanisms are employed by the cells of the nervous system in almost every step of development, and prominently figure into the processes of synaptic plasticity that underlie learning and memory. Finally, misregulation of Rho-GTPases plays critical roles in responses to neuronal injury, such as traumatic brain injury and neuropathic pain, and in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, including intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's Disease. Thus, decoding the mechanisms of Rho-GTPase regulation and function at excitatory synapses has great potential for combatting many of the biggest current challenges in mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph G. Duman
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Francisco A. Blanco
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Science Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Christopher A. Cronkite
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Qin Ru
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kelly C. Erikson
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shalaka Mulherkar
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ali Bin Saifullah
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Karen Firozi
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kimberley F. Tolias
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Scala M, Nishikawa M, Nagata KI, Striano P. Pathophysiological Mechanisms in Neurodevelopmental Disorders Caused by Rac GTPases Dysregulation: What's behind Neuro-RACopathies. Cells 2021; 10:3395. [PMID: 34943902 PMCID: PMC8699292 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Rho family guanosine triphosphatases (GTPases) regulate cellular signaling and cytoskeletal dynamics, playing a pivotal role in cell adhesion, migration, and cell cycle progression. The Rac subfamily of Rho GTPases consists of three highly homologous proteins, Rac 1-3. The proper function of Rac1 and Rac3, and their correct interaction with guanine nucleotide-exchange factors (GEFs) and GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs) are crucial for neural development. Pathogenic variants affecting these delicate biological processes are implicated in different medical conditions in humans, primarily neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). In addition to a direct deleterious effect produced by genetic variants in the RAC genes, a dysregulated GTPase activity resulting from an abnormal function of GEFs and GAPs has been involved in the pathogenesis of distinctive emerging conditions. In this study, we reviewed the current pertinent literature on Rac-related disorders with a primary neurological involvement, providing an overview of the current knowledge on the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the neuro-RACopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Scala
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
- Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Masashi Nishikawa
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Institute for Developmental Research, Aichi Developmental Disability Center, 713-8 Kamiya, Kasugai 480-0392, Japan; (M.N.); (K.-i.N.)
| | - Koh-ichi Nagata
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Institute for Developmental Research, Aichi Developmental Disability Center, 713-8 Kamiya, Kasugai 480-0392, Japan; (M.N.); (K.-i.N.)
- Department of Neurochemistry, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Pasquale Striano
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
- Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy
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Zhu Y, Qu Y, Zhang J, Hou J, Fang J, Shen J, Xu C, Huang M, Qiao H, An S. Phencynonate hydrochloride exerts antidepressant effects by regulating the dendritic spine density and altering glutamate receptor expression. Behav Pharmacol 2021; 32:660-672. [PMID: 34751176 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Phencynonate hydrochloride (PCH) is a drug that crosses the blood-brain barrier. Cellular experiments confirmed that PCH protects against glutamate toxicity and causes only weak central inhibition and limited side effects. As shown in our previous studies, PCH alleviates depression-like behaviours induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS). Here we administered PCH at three different doses (4, 8 and 16 mg/kg) to male rats for two continuous days after CUMS and conducted behavioural tests to assess the dose-dependent antidepressant effects of PCH and its effects on the neuroplasticity in the hippocampus and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). Meanwhile, we measured the spine density and expression of related proteins to illustrate the mechanism of PCH. PCH treatment (8 mg/kg) significantly alleviated depression-like behaviours induced by CUMS. All doses of PCH treatment reversed the spine loss in prelimbic and CA3 regions induced by CUMS. Kalirin-7 expression was decreased in the hippocampus and mPFC of the CUMS group. The expression of the NR1 and NR2B subunits in the hippocampus, and NR2B in mPFC are increased by CUMS. PCH treatment (8 and 16 mg/kg) reversed all of these changes of Kalirin-7 in PFC and hippocampus, as well as NR1 and NR2B expression in the hippocampus. PCH is expected to be developed as a new type of rapid antidepressant. Its antidepressant effect may be closely related to the modulation of dendritic spine density in the prelimbic and CA3 regions and the regulation of Kalilin-7 and N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor levels in the hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingqi Zhu
- Institute of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, College of Life Science, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi
| | - Yishan Qu
- Institute of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, College of Life Science, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi
| | - Jing Zhang
- Institute of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, College of Life Science, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi
| | - Jun Hou
- Institute of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, College of Life Science, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi
| | - Jie Fang
- Institute of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, College of Life Science, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi
| | - Jingxuan Shen
- Institute of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, College of Life Science, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi
| | - Chang Xu
- Institute of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, College of Life Science, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi
| | - Minyi Huang
- College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Hunan University of Humanities, Science and Technology, Loudi, Hunan, China
| | - Hui Qiao
- Institute of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, College of Life Science, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi
| | - Shucheng An
- Institute of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, College of Life Science, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi
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40
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Zhang H, Ben Zablah Y, Zhang H, Jia Z. Rho Signaling in Synaptic Plasticity, Memory, and Brain Disorders. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:729076. [PMID: 34671600 PMCID: PMC8520953 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.729076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Memory impairments are associated with many brain disorders such as autism, Alzheimer's disease, and depression. Forming memories involves modifications of synaptic transmission and spine morphology. The Rho family small GTPases are key regulators of synaptic plasticity by affecting various downstream molecules to remodel the actin cytoskeleton. In this paper, we will review recent studies on the roles of Rho proteins in the regulation of hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD), the most extensively studied forms of synaptic plasticity widely regarded as cellular mechanisms for learning and memory. We will also discuss the involvement of Rho signaling in spine morphology, the structural basis of synaptic plasticity and memory formation. Finally, we will review the association between brain disorders and abnormalities of Rho function. It is expected that studying Rho signaling at the synapse will contribute to the understanding of how memory is formed and disrupted in diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haorui Zhang
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Youssif Ben Zablah
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Haiwang Zhang
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Zhengping Jia
- Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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41
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LIM-Kinases in Synaptic Plasticity, Memory, and Brain Diseases. Cells 2021; 10:cells10082079. [PMID: 34440848 PMCID: PMC8391678 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Learning and memory require structural and functional modifications of synaptic connections, and synaptic deficits are believed to underlie many brain disorders. The LIM-domain-containing protein kinases (LIMK1 and LIMK2) are key regulators of the actin cytoskeleton by affecting the actin-binding protein, cofilin. In addition, LIMK1 is implicated in the regulation of gene expression by interacting with the cAMP-response element-binding protein. Accumulating evidence indicates that LIMKs are critically involved in brain function and dysfunction. In this paper, we will review studies on the roles and underlying mechanisms of LIMKs in the regulation of long-term potentiation (LTP) and depression (LTD), the most extensively studied forms of long-lasting synaptic plasticity widely regarded as cellular mechanisms underlying learning and memory. We will also discuss the involvement of LIMKs in the regulation of the dendritic spine, the structural basis of synaptic plasticity, and memory formation. Finally, we will discuss recent progress on investigations of LIMKs in neurological and mental disorders, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Williams–Beuren syndrome, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorders.
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42
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The role of CaMKII autophosphorylation for NMDA receptor-dependent synaptic potentiation. Neuropharmacology 2021; 193:108616. [PMID: 34051268 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Potentiation of glutamatergic synaptic transmission is thought to underlie memory. The induction of this synaptic potentiation relies on activation of NMDA receptors which allows for calcium influx into the post-synapse. A key mechanistic question for the understanding of synaptic potentiation is what signaling is activated by the calcium influx. Here, I review evidences that at mature synapses the elevated calcium levels activate primarily calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII) and cause its autophophorylation. CaMKII autophosphorylation leads to calcium-independent activity of the kinase, so that kinase signaling can outlast NMDA receptor-dependent calcium influx. Prolonged CaMKII signaling induces downstream signaling for AMPA receptor trafficking into the post-synaptic density and causes structural enlargement of the synapse. Interestingly, however, CaMKII autophosphorylation does not have such an essential role in NMDA receptor-dependent synaptic potentiation in early postnatal development and in adult dentate gyrus, where neurogenesis occurs. Additionally, in old age memory-relevant NMDA receptor-dependent synaptic plasticity appears to be due to generation of multi-innervated dendritic spines, which does not require CaMKII autophosphorylation. In conclusion, CaMKII autophosphorylation has a conditional role in the induction of NMDA receptor-dependent synaptic potentiation.
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43
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Mizuki Y, Sakamoto S, Okahisa Y, Yada Y, Hashimoto N, Takaki M, Yamada N. Mechanisms Underlying the Comorbidity of Schizophrenia and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2021; 24:367-382. [PMID: 33315097 PMCID: PMC8130204 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyaa097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The mortality rate of patients with schizophrenia is high, and life expectancy is shorter by 10 to 20 years. Metabolic abnormalities including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are among the main reasons. The prevalence of T2DM in patients with schizophrenia may be epidemiologically frequent because antipsychotics induce weight gain as a side effect and the cognitive dysfunction of patients with schizophrenia relates to a disordered lifestyle, poor diet, and low socioeconomic status. Apart from these common risk factors and risk factors unique to schizophrenia, accumulating evidence suggests the existence of common susceptibility genes between schizophrenia and T2DM. Functional proteins translated from common genetic susceptibility genes are known to regulate neuronal development in the brain and insulin in the pancreas through several common cascades. In this review, we discuss common susceptibility genes, functional cascades, and the relationship between schizophrenia and T2DM. Many genetic and epidemiological studies have reliably associated the comorbidity of schizophrenia and T2DM, and it is probably safe to think that common cascades and mechanisms suspected from common genes' functions are related to the onset of both schizophrenia and T2DM. On the other hand, even when genetic analyses are performed on a relatively large number of comorbid patients, the results are sometimes inconsistent, and susceptibility genes may carry only a low or moderate risk. We anticipate future directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Mizuki
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Shimonoseki Hospital
| | - Shinji Sakamoto
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences
| | - Yuko Okahisa
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences
| | - Yuji Yada
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Okayama Psychiatric Medical Center
| | - Nozomu Hashimoto
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Okayama Psychiatric Medical Center
| | - Manabu Takaki
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences
| | - Norihito Yamada
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences
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44
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Guiler W, Koehler A, Boykin C, Lu Q. Pharmacological Modulators of Small GTPases of Rho Family in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:661612. [PMID: 34054432 PMCID: PMC8149604 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.661612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Classical Rho GTPases, including RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42, are members of the Ras small GTPase superfamily and play essential roles in a variety of cellular functions. Rho GTPase signaling can be turned on and off by specific GEFs and GAPs, respectively. These features empower Rho GTPases and their upstream and downstream modulators as targets for scientific research and therapeutic intervention. Specifically, significant therapeutic potential exists for targeting Rho GTPases in neurodegenerative diseases due to their widespread cellular activity and alterations in neural tissues. This study will explore the roles of Rho GTPases in neurodegenerative diseases with focus on the applications of pharmacological modulators in recent discoveries. There have been exciting developments of small molecules, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and natural products and toxins for each classical Rho GTPase category. A brief overview of each category followed by examples in their applications will be provided. The literature on their roles in various diseases [e.g., Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and Multiple sclerosis (MS)] highlights the unique and broad implications targeting Rho GTPases for potential therapeutic intervention. Clearly, there is increasing knowledge of therapeutic promise from the discovery of pharmacological modulators of Rho GTPases for managing and treating these conditions. The progress is also accompanied by the recognition of complex Rho GTPase modulation where targeting its signaling can improve some aspects of pathogenesis while exacerbating others in the same disease model. Future directions should emphasize the importance of elucidating how different Rho GTPases work in concert and how they produce such widespread yet different cellular responses during neurodegenerative disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Qun Lu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The Harriet and John Wooten Laboratory for Alzheimer’s and Neurogenerative Diseases Research, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
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45
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Proietti Onori M, van Woerden GM. Role of calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase 2 in neurodevelopmental disorders. Brain Res Bull 2021; 171:209-220. [PMID: 33774142 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2021.03.014] [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] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders are a complex and heterogeneous group of neurological disorders characterized by their early-onset and estimated to affect more than 3% of children worldwide. The rapid advancement of sequencing technologies in the past years allowed the identification of hundreds of variants in several different genes causing neurodevelopmental disorders. Between those, new variants in the Calcium/calmodulin dependent protein kinase II (CAMK2) genes were recently linked to intellectual disability. Despite many years of research on CAMK2, this proves for the first time that this well-known and highly conserved molecule plays an important role in the human brain. In this review, we give an overview of the identified CAMK2 variants, and we speculate on potential mechanisms through which dysfunctions in CAMK2 result in neurodevelopmental disorders. Additionally, we discuss how the identification of CAMK2 variants might result in new exciting discoveries regarding the function of CAMK2 in the human brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Proietti Onori
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, the Netherlands; The ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, the Netherlands
| | - Geeske M van Woerden
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, the Netherlands; The ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, the Netherlands.
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46
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Bircher JE, Koleske AJ. Trio family proteins as regulators of cell migration and morphogenesis in development and disease - mechanisms and cellular contexts. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:jcs248393. [PMID: 33568469 PMCID: PMC7888718 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.248393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The well-studied members of the Trio family of proteins are Trio and kalirin in vertebrates, UNC-73 in Caenorhabditis elegans and Trio in Drosophila Trio proteins are key regulators of cell morphogenesis and migration, tissue organization, and secretion and protein trafficking in many biological contexts. Recent discoveries have linked Trio and kalirin to human disease, including neurological disorders and cancer. The genes for Trio family proteins encode a series of large multidomain proteins with up to three catalytic activities and multiple scaffolding and protein-protein interaction domains. As such, Trio family proteins engage a wide array of cell surface receptors, substrates and interaction partners to coordinate changes in cytoskeletal regulatory and protein trafficking pathways. We provide a comprehensive review of the specific mechanisms by which Trio family proteins carry out their functions in cells, highlight the biological and cellular contexts in which they occur, and relate how alterations in these functions contribute to human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josie E Bircher
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry and Biophysics, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511 USA
| | - Anthony J Koleske
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry and Biophysics, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511 USA
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47
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Cheng J, Scala F, Blanco FA, Niu S, Firozi K, Keehan L, Mulherkar S, Froudarakis E, Li L, Duman JG, Jiang X, Tolias KF. The Rac-GEF Tiam1 Promotes Dendrite and Synapse Stabilization of Dentate Granule Cells and Restricts Hippocampal-Dependent Memory Functions. J Neurosci 2021; 41:1191-1206. [PMID: 33328293 PMCID: PMC7888217 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3271-17.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The dentate gyrus (DG) controls information flow into the hippocampus and is critical for learning, memory, pattern separation, and spatial coding, while DG dysfunction is associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. Despite its importance, the molecular mechanisms regulating DG neural circuit assembly and function remain unclear. Here, we identify the Rac-GEF Tiam1 as an important regulator of DG development and associated memory processes. In the hippocampus, Tiam1 is predominantly expressed in the DG throughout life. Global deletion of Tiam1 in male mice results in DG granule cells with simplified dendritic arbors, reduced dendritic spine density, and diminished excitatory synaptic transmission. Notably, DG granule cell dendrites and synapses develop normally in Tiam1 KO mice, resembling WT mice at postnatal day 21 (P21), but fail to stabilize, leading to dendrite and synapse loss by P42. These results indicate that Tiam1 promotes DG granule cell dendrite and synapse stabilization late in development. Tiam1 loss also increases the survival, but not the production, of adult-born DG granule cells, possibly because of greater circuit integration as a result of decreased competition with mature granule cells for synaptic inputs. Strikingly, both male and female mice lacking Tiam1 exhibit enhanced contextual fear memory and context discrimination. Together, these results suggest that Tiam1 is a key regulator of DG granule cell stabilization and function within hippocampal circuits. Moreover, based on the enhanced memory phenotype of Tiam1 KO mice, Tiam1 may be a potential target for the treatment of disorders involving memory impairments.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The dentate gyrus (DG) is important for learning, memory, pattern separation, and spatial navigation, and its dysfunction is associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. However, the molecular mechanisms controlling DG formation and function remain elusive. By characterizing mice lacking the Rac-GEF Tiam1, we demonstrate that Tiam1 promotes the stabilization of DG granule cell dendritic arbors, spines, and synapses, whereas it restricts the survival of adult-born DG granule cells, which compete with mature granule cells for synaptic integration. Notably, mice lacking Tiam1 also exhibit enhanced contextual fear memory and context discrimination. These findings establish Tiam1 as an essential regulator of DG granule cell development, and identify it as a possible therapeutic target for memory enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxuan Cheng
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Federico Scala
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Francisco A Blanco
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
- Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Science Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Sanyong Niu
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Karen Firozi
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Laura Keehan
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005
| | - Shalaka Mulherkar
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | | | - Lingyong Li
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Joseph G Duman
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Xiaolong Jiang
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Kimberley F Tolias
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
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48
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Ji B, Skup M. Roles of palmitoylation in structural long-term synaptic plasticity. Mol Brain 2021; 14:8. [PMID: 33430908 PMCID: PMC7802216 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-020-00717-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD) are important cellular mechanisms underlying learning and memory processes. N-Methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)-dependent LTP and LTD play especially crucial roles in these functions, and their expression depends on changes in the number and single channel conductance of the major ionotropic glutamate receptor α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR) located on the postsynaptic membrane. Structural changes in dendritic spines comprise the morphological platform and support for molecular changes in the execution of synaptic plasticity and memory storage. At the molecular level, spine morphology is directly determined by actin cytoskeleton organization within the spine and indirectly stabilized and consolidated by scaffold proteins at the spine head. Palmitoylation, as a uniquely reversible lipid modification with the ability to regulate protein membrane localization and trafficking, plays significant roles in the structural and functional regulation of LTP and LTD. Altered structural plasticity of dendritic spines is also considered a hallmark of neurodevelopmental disorders, while genetic evidence strongly links abnormal brain function to impaired palmitoylation. Numerous studies have indicated that palmitoylation contributes to morphological spine modifications. In this review, we have gathered data showing that the regulatory proteins that modulate the actin network and scaffold proteins related to AMPAR-mediated neurotransmission also undergo palmitoylation and play roles in modifying spine architecture during structural plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjun Ji
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Małgorzata Skup
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland.
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49
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Stress-Sensitive Protein Rac1 and Its Involvement in Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Neural Plast 2020; 2020:8894372. [PMID: 33299404 PMCID: PMC7707960 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8894372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) is a small GTPase that is well known for its sensitivity to the environmental stress of a cell or an organism. It senses the external signals which are transmitted from membrane-bound receptors and induces downstream signaling cascades to exert its physiological functions. Rac1 is an important regulator of a variety of cellular processes, such as cytoskeletal organization, generation of oxidative products, and gene expression. In particular, Rac1 has a significant influence on certain brain functions like neuronal migration, synaptic plasticity, and memory formation via regulation of actin dynamics in neurons. Abnormal Rac1 expression and activity have been observed in multiple neurological diseases. Here, we review recent findings to delineate the role of Rac1 signaling in neurodevelopmental disorders associated with abnormal spine morphology, synaptogenesis, and synaptic plasticity. Moreover, certain novel inhibitors of Rac1 and related pathways are discussed as potential avenues toward future treatment for these diseases.
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50
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Parnell E, Shapiro LP, Voorn RA, Forrest MP, Jalloul HA, Loizzo DD, Penzes P. KALRN: A central regulator of synaptic function and synaptopathies. Gene 2020; 768:145306. [PMID: 33189799 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.145306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The synaptic regulator, kalirin, plays a key role in synaptic plasticity and formation of dendritic arbors and spines. Dysregulation of the KALRN gene has been linked to various neurological disorders, including autism spectrum disorder, Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, addiction and intellectual disabilities. Both genetic and molecular studies highlight the importance of normal KALRN expression for healthy neurodevelopment and function. This review aims to give an in-depth analysis of the structure and molecular mechanisms of kalirin function, particularly within the brain. These data are correlated to genetic evidence of patient mutations within KALRN and animal models of Kalrn that together give insight into the manner in which this gene may be involved in neurodevelopment and the etiology of disease. The emerging links to human disease from post-mortem, genome wide association (GWAS) and exome sequencing studies are examined to highlight the disease relevance of kalirin, particularly in neurodevelopmental diseases. Finally, we will discuss efforts to pharmacologically regulate kalirin protein activity and the implications of such endeavors for the treatment of human disease. As multiple disease states arise from deregulated synapse formation and altered KALRN expression and function, therapeutics may be developed to provide control over KALRN activity and thus synapse dysregulation. As such, a detailed understanding of how kalirin regulates neuronal development, and the manner in which kalirin dysfunction promotes neurological disease, may support KALRN as a valuable therapeutic avenue for future pharmacological intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Euan Parnell
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, 60611 IL, USA
| | - Lauren P Shapiro
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, 60611 IL, USA
| | - Roos A Voorn
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, 60611 IL, USA
| | - Marc P Forrest
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, 60611 IL, USA
| | - Hiba A Jalloul
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, 60611 IL, USA
| | - Daniel D Loizzo
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, 60611 IL, USA
| | - Peter Penzes
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, 60611 IL, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, 60611 IL, USA; Northwestern University Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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