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Xu P, Swain S, Novorolsky RJ, Garcia E, Huang Z, Snutch TP, Wilson JJ, Robertson GS, Renden RB. The mitochondrial calcium uniporter inhibitor Ru265 increases neuronal excitability and reduces neurotransmission via off-target effects. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38779706 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Excitotoxicity due to mitochondrial calcium (Ca2+) overloading can trigger neuronal cell death in a variety of pathologies. Inhibiting the mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) has been proposed as a therapeutic avenue to prevent calcium overloading. Ru265 (ClRu(NH3)4(μ-N)Ru(NH3)4Cl]Cl3) is a cell-permeable inhibitor of the mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) with nanomolar affinity. Ru265 reduces sensorimotor deficits and neuronal death in models of ischemic stroke. However, the therapeutic use of Ru265 is limited by the induction of seizure-like behaviours. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We examined the effect of Ru265 on synaptic and neuronal function in acute brain slices and hippocampal neuron cultures derived from mice, in control and where MCU expression was genetically abrogated. KEY RESULTS Ru265 decreased evoked responses from calyx terminals and induced spontaneous action potential firing of both the terminal and postsynaptic principal cell. Recordings of presynaptic Ca2+ currents suggested that Ru265 blocks the P/Q type channel, confirmed by the inhibition of currents in cells exogenously expressing the P/Q type channel. Measurements of presynaptic K+ currents further revealed that Ru265 blocked a KCNQ current, leading to increased membrane excitability, underlying spontaneous spiking. Ca2+ imaging of hippocampal neurons showed that Ru265 increased synchronized, high-amplitude events, recapitulating seizure-like activity seen in vivo. Importantly, MCU ablation did not suppress Ru265-induced increases in neuronal activity and seizures. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our findings provide a mechanistic explanation for the pro-convulsant effects of Ru265 and suggest counter screening assays based on the measurement of P/Q and KCNQ channel currents to identify safe MCU inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Xu
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Sarpras Swain
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Robyn J Novorolsky
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Esperanza Garcia
- Michael Smith Laboratories and Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Zhouyang Huang
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Terrance P Snutch
- Michael Smith Laboratories and Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Justin J Wilson
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - George S Robertson
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Robert B Renden
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, Nevada, USA
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Eltokhi A, Lundstrom BN, Li J, Zweifel LS, Catterall WA, Gamal El-Din TM. Pathogenic gating pore current conducted by autism-related mutations in the Na V1.2 brain sodium channel. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2317769121. [PMID: 38564633 PMCID: PMC11009634 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2317769121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social and communication deficits and repetitive behaviors. The genetic heterogeneity of ASD presents a challenge to the development of an effective treatment targeting the underlying molecular defects. ASD gating charge mutations in the KCNQ/KV7 potassium channel cause gating pore currents (Igp) and impair action potential (AP) firing of dopaminergic neurons in brain slices. Here, we investigated ASD gating charge mutations of the voltage-gated SCN2A/NaV1.2 brain sodium channel, which ranked high among the ion channel genes with mutations in individuals with ASD. Our results show that ASD mutations in the gating charges R2 in Domain-II (R853Q), and R1 (R1626Q) and R2 (R1629H) in Domain-IV of NaV1.2 caused Igp in the resting state of ~0.1% of the amplitude of central pore current. The R1626Q mutant also caused significant changes in the voltage dependence of fast inactivation, and the R1629H mutant conducted proton-selective Igp. These potentially pathogenic Igp were exacerbated by the absence of the extracellular Mg2+ and Ca2+. In silico simulation of the effects of these mutations in a conductance-based single-compartment cortical neuron model suggests that the inward Igp reduces the time to peak for the first AP in a train, increases AP rates during a train of stimuli, and reduces the interstimulus interval between consecutive APs, consistent with increased neural excitability and altered input/output relationships. Understanding this common pathophysiological mechanism among different voltage-gated ion channels at the circuit level will give insights into the underlying mechanisms of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Eltokhi
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
| | - Brian Nils Lundstrom
- Department of Neurology in the Division of Epilepsy, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN55905
| | - Jin Li
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
| | - Larry S. Zweifel
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98195
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Uryash A, Mijares A, Lopez CE, Adams JA, Allen PD, Lopez JR. Post-Anesthesia Cognitive Dysfunction in Mice Is Associated with an Age-Related Increase in Neuronal Intracellular [Ca 2+]-Neuroprotective Effect of Reducing Intracellular [Ca 2+]: In Vivo and In Vitro Studies. Cells 2024; 13:264. [PMID: 38334656 PMCID: PMC10854970 DOI: 10.3390/cells13030264] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a common disorder after general anesthesia in elderly patients, the precise mechanisms of which remain unclear. Methods: We investigated the effect of isoflurane with or without dantrolene pretreatment on intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i), reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, cellular lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leak, calpain activity, and cognitive function using the Morris water maze test of young (3 months), middle-aged (12-13 months), and aged (24-25 months) C57BL6/J mice. Results: Aged cortical and hippocampal neurons showed chronically elevated [Ca2+]i compared to young neurons. Furthermore, aged hippocampal neurons exhibited higher ROS production, increased LDH leak, and elevated calpain activity. Exposure to isoflurane exacerbated these markers in aged neurons, contributing to increased cognitive deficits in aged mice. Dantrolene pretreatment reduced [Ca2+]i for all age groups and prevented or significantly mitigated the effects of isoflurane on [Ca2+]i, ROS production, LDH leak, and calpain activity in aged neurons. Dantrolene also normalized or improved age-associated cognitive deficits and mitigated the cognitive deficits caused by isoflurane. Conclusions: These findings suggest that isoflurane-induced cytotoxicity and cognitive decline in aging are linked to disruptions in neuronal intracellular processes, highlighting the reduction of [Ca2+]i as a potential therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arkady Uryash
- Division of Neonatology, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami, FL 33140, USA; (A.U.); (J.A.A.)
| | - Alfredo Mijares
- Centro de Biofísica y Bioquímica, Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas, Caracas 1020, Venezuela;
| | | | - Jose A. Adams
- Division of Neonatology, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami, FL 33140, USA; (A.U.); (J.A.A.)
| | - Paul D. Allen
- Leeds Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS9 7TF, UK;
| | - Jose R. Lopez
- Department of Research, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL 33140, USA
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4
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Zhang YZ, Sapantzi S, Lin A, Doelfel SR, Connors BW, Theyel BB. Activity-dependent ectopic action potentials in regular-spiking neurons of the neocortex. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1267687. [PMID: 38034593 PMCID: PMC10685889 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1267687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Action potentials usually travel orthodromically along a neuron's axon, from the axon initial segment (AIS) toward the presynaptic terminals. Under some circumstances action potentials also travel in the opposite direction, antidromically, after being initiated at a distal location. Given their initiation at an atypical site, we refer to these events as "ectopic action potentials." Ectopic action potentials (EAPs) were initially observed in pathological conditions including seizures and nerve injury. Several studies have described regular-spiking (RS) pyramidal neurons firing EAPs in seizure models. Under nonpathological conditions, EAPs were reported in a few populations of neurons, and our group has found that EAPs can be induced in a large proportion of parvalbumin-expressing interneurons in the neocortex. Nevertheless, to our knowledge there have been no prior reports of ectopic firing in the largest population of neurons in the neocortex, pyramidal neurons, under nonpathological conditions. Methods We performed in vitro recordings utilizing the whole-cell patch clamp technique. To elicit EAPs, we triggered orthodromic action potentialswith either long, progressively increasing current steps, or with trains of brief pulses at 30, 60, or 100 Hz delivered in 3 different ways, varying in stimulus and resting period duration. Results We found that a large proportion (72.7%) of neocortical RS cells from mice can fire EAPs after a specific stimulus in vitro, and that most RS cells (56.1%) are capable of firing EAPs across a broad range of stimulus conditions. Of the 37 RS neurons in which we were able to elicit EAPs, it took an average of 863.8 orthodromic action potentials delivered over the course of an average of ~81.4 s before the first EAP was seen. We observed that some cells responded to specific stimulus frequencies while less selective, suggesting frequency tuning in a subset of the cells. Discussion Our findings suggest that pyramidal cells can integrate information over long time-scales before briefly entering a mode of self-generated firing that originates in distal axons. The surprising ubiquity of EAP generation in RS cells raises interesting questions about the potential roles of ectopic spiking in information processing, cortical oscillations, and seizure susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhen Z. Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Stella Sapantzi
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Alice Lin
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | | | - Barry W. Connors
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Brian B. Theyel
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
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Rajayer SR, Smith SM. Neurovirulent cytokines increase neuronal excitability in a model of coronavirus-induced neuroinflammation. Intensive Care Med Exp 2023; 11:71. [PMID: 37833408 PMCID: PMC10575822 DOI: 10.1186/s40635-023-00557-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurological manifestations of severe coronavirus infections, including SARS-CoV-2, are wide-ranging and may persist following virus clearance. Detailed understanding of the underlying changes in brain function may facilitate the identification of therapeutic targets. We directly tested how neocortical function is impacted by the specific panel of cytokines that occur in coronavirus brain infection. Using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique, we determined how the five cytokines (TNFα, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12p40 and IL-15 for 22-28-h) at concentrations matched to those elicited by MHV-A59 coronavirus brain infection, affected neuronal function in cultured primary mouse neocortical neurons. RESULTS We evaluated how acute cytokine exposure affected neuronal excitability (propensity to fire action potentials), membrane properties, and action potential characteristics, as well as sensitivity to changes in extracellular calcium and magnesium (divalent) concentration. Neurovirulent cytokines increased spontaneous excitability and response to low divalent concentration by depolarizing the resting membrane potential and hyperpolarizing the action potential threshold. Evoked excitability was also enhanced by neurovirulent cytokines at physiological divalent concentrations. At low divalent concentrations, the change in evoked excitability was attenuated. One hour after cytokine removal, spontaneous excitability and hyperpolarization of the action potential threshold normalized but membrane depolarization and attenuated divalent-dependent excitability persisted. CONCLUSIONS Coronavirus-associated cytokine exposure increases spontaneous excitability in neocortical neurons, and some of the changes persist after cytokine removal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salil R Rajayer
- Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Allergy, and Sleep Medicine, VA Portland Health Care System, 3710 SW U.S. Veterans Hospital Road, R&D 24, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Stephen M Smith
- Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Allergy, and Sleep Medicine, VA Portland Health Care System, 3710 SW U.S. Veterans Hospital Road, R&D 24, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
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6
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Schamiloglu S, Lewis E, Keeshen CM, Hergarden AC, Bender KJ, Whistler JL. Arrestin-3 Agonism at Dopamine D 3 Receptors Defines a Subclass of Second-Generation Antipsychotics That Promotes Drug Tolerance. Biol Psychiatry 2023; 94:531-542. [PMID: 36931452 PMCID: PMC10914650 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2023.03.006] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) are frontline treatments for serious mental illness. Often, individual patients benefit only from some SGAs and not others. The mechanisms underlying this unpredictability in treatment efficacy remain unclear. All SGAs bind the dopamine D3 receptor (D3R) and are traditionally considered antagonists for dopamine receptor signaling. METHODS Here, we used a combination of two-photon calcium imaging, in vitro signaling assays, and mouse behavior to assess signaling by SGAs at D3R. RESULTS We report that some clinically important SGAs function as arrestin-3 agonists at D3R, resulting in modulation of calcium channels localized to the site of action potential initiation in prefrontal cortex pyramidal neurons. We further show that chronic treatment with an arrestin-3 agonist SGA, but not an antagonist SGA, abolishes D3R function through postendocytic receptor degradation by GASP1 (G protein-coupled receptor-associated sorting protein-1). CONCLUSIONS These results implicate D3R-arrestin-3 signaling as a source of SGA variability, highlighting the importance of including arrestin-3 signaling in characterizations of drug action. Furthermore, they suggest that postendocytic receptor trafficking that occurs during chronic SGA treatment may contribute to treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selin Schamiloglu
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Elinor Lewis
- Neuroscience Graduate Group, University of California Davis, Davis, California; Center for Neuroscience, University of California Davis, Davis, California
| | - Caroline M Keeshen
- Neuroscience Graduate Group, University of California Davis, Davis, California; Center for Neuroscience, University of California Davis, Davis, California
| | - Anne C Hergarden
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California Davis, Davis, California
| | - Kevin J Bender
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California; Department of Neurology, Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California.
| | - Jennifer L Whistler
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California Davis, Davis, California; Department of Physiology and Membrane Biology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, California.
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7
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Lipkin AM, Bender KJ. Axon Initial Segment GABA Inhibits Action Potential Generation throughout Periadolescent Development. J Neurosci 2023; 43:6357-6368. [PMID: 37596053 PMCID: PMC10500977 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0605-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurons are remarkably polarized structures: dendrites spread and branch to receive synaptic inputs while a single axon extends and transmits action potentials (APs) to downstream targets. Neuronal polarity is maintained by the axon initial segment (AIS), a region between the soma and axon proper that is also the site of action potential (AP) generation. This polarization between dendrites and axons extends to inhibitory neurotransmission. In adulthood, the neurotransmitter GABA hyperpolarizes dendrites but instead depolarizes axons. These differences in function collide at the AIS. Multiple studies have shown that GABAergic signaling in this region can share properties of either the mature axon or mature dendrite, and that these properties evolve over a protracted period encompassing periadolescent development. Here, we explored how developmental changes in GABAergic signaling affect AP initiation. We show that GABA at the axon initial segment inhibits action potential initiation in layer (L)2/3 pyramidal neurons in prefrontal cortex from mice of either sex across GABA reversal potentials observed in periadolescence. These actions occur largely through current shunts generated by GABAA receptors and changes in voltage-gated channel properties that affected the number of channels that could be recruited for AP electrogenesis. These results suggest that GABAergic neurons targeting the axon initial segment provide an inhibitory "veto" across the range of GABA polarity observed in normal adolescent development, regardless of GABAergic synapse reversal potential.Significance Statement GABA receptors are a major class of neurotransmitter receptors in the brain. Typically, GABA receptors inhibit neurons by allowing influx of negatively charged chloride ions into the cell. However, there are cases where local chloride concentrations promote chloride efflux through GABA receptors. Such conditions exist early in development in neocortical pyramidal cell axon initial segments (AISs), where action potentials (APs) initiate. Here, we examined how chloride efflux in early development interacts with mechanisms that support action potential initiation. We find that this efflux, despite moving membrane potential closer to action potential threshold, is nevertheless inhibitory. Thus, GABA at the axon initial segment is likely to be inhibitory for action potential initiation independent of whether chloride flows out or into neurons via these receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Lipkin
- Neuroscience Graduate Program
- Center for Integrative Neuroscience Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco 94158, California
| | - Kevin J Bender
- Center for Integrative Neuroscience Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco 94158, California
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Kanyo R, Lamothe SM, Urrutia A, Goodchild SJ, Allison WT, Dean R, Kurata HT. Site and Mechanism of ML252 Inhibition of Kv7 Voltage-Gated Potassium Channels. FUNCTION 2023; 4:zqad021. [PMID: 37342413 PMCID: PMC10278987 DOI: 10.1093/function/zqad021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Kv7 (KCNQ) voltage-gated potassium channels are critical regulators of neuronal excitability and are candidate targets for development of antiseizure medications. Drug discovery efforts have identified small molecules that modulate channel function and reveal mechanistic insights into Kv7 channel physiological roles. While Kv7 channel activators have therapeutic benefits, inhibitors are useful for understanding channel function and mechanistic validation of candidate drugs. In this study, we reveal the mechanism of a Kv7.2/Kv7.3 inhibitor, ML252. We used docking and electrophysiology to identify critical residues involved in ML252 sensitivity. Most notably, Kv7.2[W236F] or Kv7.3[W265F] mutations strongly attenuate ML252 sensitivity. This tryptophan residue in the pore is also required for sensitivity to certain activators, including retigabine and ML213. We used automated planar patch clamp electrophysiology to assess competitive interactions between ML252 and different Kv7 activator subtypes. A pore-targeted activator (ML213) weakens the inhibitory effects of ML252, whereas a distinct activator subtype (ICA-069673) that targets the voltage sensor does not prevent ML252 inhibition. Using transgenic zebrafish larvae expressing an optical reporter (CaMPARI) to measure neural activity in-vivo, we demonstrate that Kv7 inhibition by ML252 increases neuronal excitability. Consistent with in-vitro data, ML213 suppresses ML252 induced neuronal activity, while the voltage-sensor targeted activator ICA-069673 does not prevent ML252 actions. In summary, this study establishes a binding site and mechanism of action of ML252, classifying this poorly understood drug as a pore-targeted Kv7 channel inhibitor that binds to the same tryptophan residue as commonly used pore-targeted Kv7 activators. ML213 and ML252 likely have overlapping sites of interaction in the pore Kv7.2 and Kv7.3 channels, resulting in competitive interactions. In contrast, the VSD-targeted activator ICA-069673 does not prevent channel inhibition by ML252.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Kanyo
- Dept. of Pharmacology, Alberta Diabetes Institute, University of Alberta, 9-70 Medical Sciences Building, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - Shawn M Lamothe
- Dept. of Pharmacology, Alberta Diabetes Institute, University of Alberta, 9-70 Medical Sciences Building, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada
| | - Arturo Urrutia
- Dept. of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Xenon Pharmaceuticals Inc., 3650 Gilmore Way, Burnaby, BC V5G 4W8, Canada
| | - Samuel J Goodchild
- Dept. of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Xenon Pharmaceuticals Inc., 3650 Gilmore Way, Burnaby, BC V5G 4W8, Canada
| | - W Ted Allison
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Richard Dean
- Dept. of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Xenon Pharmaceuticals Inc., 3650 Gilmore Way, Burnaby, BC V5G 4W8, Canada
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Beine Z, Wang Z, Tsoulfas P, Blackmore MG. Single Nuclei Analyses Reveal Transcriptional Profiles and Marker Genes for Diverse Supraspinal Populations. J Neurosci 2022; 42:8780-8794. [PMID: 36202615 PMCID: PMC9698772 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1197-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The mammalian brain contains numerous neurons distributed across forebrain, midbrain, and hindbrain that project axons to the lower spinal cord and work in concert to control movement and achieve homeostasis. Extensive work has mapped the anatomic location of supraspinal cell types and continues to establish specific physiological functions. The patterns of gene expression that typify and distinguish these disparate populations, however, are mostly unknown. Here, using adult mice of mixed sex, we combined retrograde labeling of supraspinal cell nuclei with fluorescence-activated nuclei sorting and single-nuclei RNA sequencing analyses to transcriptionally profile neurons that project axons from the brain to lumbar spinal cord. We identified 14 transcriptionally distinct cell types and used a combination of established and newly identified marker genes to assign an anatomic location to each. To validate the putative marker genes, we visualized selected transcripts and confirmed selective expression within lumbar-projecting neurons in discrete supraspinal regions. Finally, we illustrate the potential utility of these data by examining the expression of transcription factors that distinguish different supraspinal cell types and by surveying the expression of receptors for growth and guidance cues that may be present in the spinal cord. Collectively, these data establish transcriptional differences between anatomically defined supraspinal populations, identify a new set of marker genes of use in future experiments, and provide insight into potential differences in cellular and physiological activity across the supraspinal connectome.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The brain communicates with the body through a wide variety of neuronal populations with distinct functions and differential sensitivity to damage and disease. We have used single-nuclei RNA sequencing technology to distinguish patterns of gene expression within a diverse set of neurons that project axons from the mouse brain to the lumbar spinal cord. The results reveal transcriptional differences between populations previously defined on the basis of anatomy, provide new marker genes to facilitate rapid identification of cell type in future work, and suggest distinct responsiveness of different supraspinal populations to external growth and guidance cues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Beine
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201
| | - Zimei Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201
| | - Pantelis Tsoulfas
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33136
| | - Murray G Blackmore
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201
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Zhang Y, Li D, Darwish Y, Fu X, Trussell LO, Huang H. KCNQ Channels Enable Reliable Presynaptic Spiking and Synaptic Transmission at High Frequency. J Neurosci 2022; 42:3305-3315. [PMID: 35256530 PMCID: PMC9034779 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0363-20.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The presynaptic action potential (AP) is required to drive calcium influx into nerve terminals, resulting in neurotransmitter release. Accordingly, the AP waveform is crucial in determining the timing and strength of synaptic transmission. The calyx of Held nerve terminals of rats of either sex showed minimum changes in AP waveform during high-frequency AP firing. We found that the stability of the calyceal AP waveform requires KCNQ (KV7) K+ channel activation during high-frequency spiking activity. High-frequency presynaptic spikes gradually led to accumulation of KCNQ channels in open states which kept interspike membrane potential sufficiently negative to maintain Na+ channel availability. Blocking KCNQ channels during stimulus trains led to inactivation of presynaptic Na+, and to a lesser extent KV1 channels, thereby reducing the AP amplitude and broadening AP duration. Moreover, blocking KCNQ channels disrupted the stable calcium influx and glutamate release required for reliable synaptic transmission at high frequency. Thus, while KCNQ channels are generally thought to prevent hyperactivity of neurons, we find that in axon terminals these channels function to facilitate reliable high-frequency synaptic signaling needed for sensory information processing.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The presynaptic spike results in calcium influx required for neurotransmitter release. For this reason, the spike waveform is crucial in determining the timing and strength of synaptic transmission. Auditory information is encoded by spikes phase locked to sound frequency at high rates. The calyx of Held nerve terminals in the auditory brainstem show minimum changes in spike waveform during high-frequency spike firing. We found that activation of KCNQ K+ channel builds up during high-frequency firing and its activation helps to maintain a stable spike waveform and reliable synaptic transmission. While KCNQ channels are generally thought to prevent hyperexcitability of neurons, we find that in axon terminals these channels function to facilitate high-frequency synaptic signaling during auditory information processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihui Zhang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana 70118
| | - Dainan Li
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana 70118
| | - Youad Darwish
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana 70118
| | - Xin Fu
- Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118
| | - Laurence O Trussell
- Oregon Hearing Research Center and Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239
| | - Hai Huang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana 70118
- Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118
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Biba N, Becq H, Pallesi-Pocachard E, Sarno S, Granjeaud S, Montheil A, Kurz M, Villard L, Milh M, Santini PPL, Aniksztejn L. Time-limited alterations in cortical activity of a knock-in mice model of KCNQ2-related developmental and epileptic encephalopathy. J Physiol 2022; 600:2429-2460. [PMID: 35389519 DOI: 10.1113/jp282536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS The electrophysiological impact of the pathogenic c.821C>T mutation of the KCNQ2 gene (p.T274M variant in Kv7.2 subunit) related to Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathy has been analyzed both in vivo and ex-vivo in layers II/III and V of motor cortical slice from a knock-in mice model during development at neonatal, post-weaning and juvenile stages. M current density and conductance are decreased and excitability of layers II/III pyramidal cells is increased in slices from neonatal and post-weaning KI mice but not from juvenile KI mice. M current and excitability of layer V pyramidal cells are impacted in KI mice only at post-weaning stage. Spontaneous GABAergic network-driven events are recorded until post-weaning stage and their frequency are increased in layers II/III of the KI mice. KI mice displayed spontaneous seizures preferentially at post-weaning rather than at juvenile stages. ABSTRACT De novo missense variants in the KCNQ2 gene encoding the Kv7.2 subunit of the voltage-gated potassium Kv7/M channels are the main cause of Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathy (DEE) with neonatal onset. While seizures usually resolve during development, cognitive/motor deficits persist. To better understand the cellular mechanisms underlying network dysfunction and their progression over time, we investigated in vivo, using local field potential recordings of freely moving animals, and ex-vivo in layers II/III and V of motor cortical slices, using patch-clamp recordings, the electrophysiological properties of pyramidal cells from a heterozygous knock-in (KI) mouse model carrying the Kv7.2 p.T274M pathogenic variant during neonatal, post-weaning and juvenile developmental stages. We found that KI mice displayed spontaneous seizures preferentially at post-weaning rather than at juvenile stages. At the cellular level, the variant led to a reduction in M current density/conductance and to neuronal hyperexcitability. These alterations were observed during the neonatal period in pyramidal cells of layers II /III and during post-weaning stage in pyramidal cells of layer V. Moreover, there was an increase in the frequency of spontaneous network driven events mediated by GABA receptors suggesting that the excitability of interneurons was also increased. However, all these alterations were no more observed in layers II/III and V of juvenile mice. Thus, our data indicate that the action of the variant is developmentally regulated. This raises the possibility that the age related seizure remission observed in KCNQ2-related DEE patient results from a time limited alteration of Kv7 channels activity and neuronal excitability. Abstract figure legend Knock-in mice harboring the heterozygous pathogenic p.T274M variant in the Kv7.2 subunit (c.821C>T mutation of the KCNQ2 gene) related to Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathy displayed epileptic seizures preferentially at post-weaning rather than at juvenile developmental stages. At cellular level, in motor cortical slices the variant led to a reduction in M current density, to a hyperexcitability of pyramidal cells and to an increase in the frequency of spontaneous network driven events mediated by GABA receptors. All these alterations are time limited and are observed in pyramidal cells of neonatal mice until post-weaning but not of juvenile mice in which the pyramidal cells have electrophysiological properties similar to those of wild-type mice. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najoua Biba
- INSERM, INMED (U1249), Aix-Marseille University, Turing centre for living system, Marseille, France
| | - Hélène Becq
- INSERM, INMED (U1249), Aix-Marseille University, Turing centre for living system, Marseille, France
| | - Emilie Pallesi-Pocachard
- INSERM, INMED (U1249), Aix-Marseille University, Turing centre for living system, Marseille, France
| | - Stefania Sarno
- INSERM, INMED (U1249), Aix-Marseille University, Turing centre for living system, Marseille, France
| | - Samuel Granjeaud
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, INSERM, U1068, Institut Paoli Calmettes, CNRS, UMR7258, Aix-Marseille University UM 105, Marseille, France
| | - Aurélie Montheil
- INSERM, INMED (U1249), Aix-Marseille University, Turing centre for living system, Marseille, France
| | - Marie Kurz
- INSERM, INMED (U1249), Aix-Marseille University, Turing centre for living system, Marseille, France
| | - Laurent Villard
- Aix-Marseille University, INSERM, MMG, Marseille, France.,Department of Medical Genetics, La Timone Childrens's Hospital, Marseille, France
| | - Mathieu Milh
- Aix-Marseille University, INSERM, MMG, Marseille, France.,Department of Pediatric Neurology, La Timone Children's Hospital, Marseille, France
| | | | - Laurent Aniksztejn
- INSERM, INMED (U1249), Aix-Marseille University, Turing centre for living system, Marseille, France
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12
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Feldhoff F, Toepfer H, Harczos T, Klefenz F. Periodicity Pitch Perception Part III: Sensibility and Pachinko Volatility. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:736642. [PMID: 35356050 PMCID: PMC8959216 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.736642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuromorphic computer models are used to explain sensory perceptions. Auditory models generate cochleagrams, which resemble the spike distributions in the auditory nerve. Neuron ensembles along the auditory pathway transform sensory inputs step by step and at the end pitch is represented in auditory categorical spaces. In two previous articles in the series on periodicity pitch perception an extended auditory model had been successfully used for explaining periodicity pitch proved for various musical instrument generated tones and sung vowels. In this third part in the series the focus is on octopus cells as they are central sensitivity elements in auditory cognition processes. A powerful numerical model had been devised, in which auditory nerve fibers (ANFs) spike events are the inputs, triggering the impulse responses of the octopus cells. Efficient algorithms are developed and demonstrated to explain the behavior of octopus cells with a focus on a simple event-based hardware implementation of a layer of octopus neurons. The main finding is, that an octopus' cell model in a local receptive field fine-tunes to a specific trajectory by a spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) learning rule with synaptic pre-activation and the dendritic back-propagating signal as post condition. Successful learning explains away the teacher and there is thus no need for a temporally precise control of plasticity that distinguishes between learning and retrieval phases. Pitch learning is cascaded: At first octopus cells respond individually by self-adjustment to specific trajectories in their local receptive fields, then unions of octopus cells are collectively learned for pitch discrimination. Pitch estimation by inter-spike intervals is shown exemplary using two input scenarios: a simple sinus tone and a sung vowel. The model evaluation indicates an improvement in pitch estimation on a fixed time-scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Feldhoff
- Advanced Electromagnetics Group, Technische Universität Ilmenau, Ilmenau, Germany
| | - Hannes Toepfer
- Advanced Electromagnetics Group, Technische Universität Ilmenau, Ilmenau, Germany
| | - Tamas Harczos
- Fraunhofer-Institut für Digitale Medientechnologie, Ilmenau, Germany
- Auditory Neuroscience and Optogenetics Laboratory, German Primate Center, Göttingen, Germany
- audifon GmbH & Co. KG, Kölleda, Germany
| | - Frank Klefenz
- Fraunhofer-Institut für Digitale Medientechnologie, Ilmenau, Germany
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13
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Aiba I, Noebels JL. Kcnq2/Kv7.2 controls the threshold and bi-hemispheric symmetry of cortical spreading depolarization. Brain 2021; 144:2863-2878. [PMID: 33768249 PMCID: PMC8536937 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Spreading depolarization is a slowly propagating wave of massive cellular depolarization associated with acute brain injury and migraine aura. Genetic studies link depolarizing molecular defects in Ca2+ flux, Na+ current in interneurons, and glial Na+-K+ ATPase with spreading depolarization susceptibility, emphasizing the important roles of synaptic activity and extracellular ionic homeostasis in determining spreading depolarization threshold. In contrast, although gene mutations in voltage-gated potassium ion channels that shape intrinsic membrane excitability are frequently associated with epilepsy susceptibility, it is not known whether epileptogenic mutations that regulate membrane repolarization also modify spreading depolarization threshold and propagation. Here we report that the Kcnq2/Kv7.2 potassium channel subunit, frequently mutated in developmental epilepsy, is a spreading depolarization modulatory gene with significant control over the seizure-spreading depolarization transition threshold, bi-hemispheric cortical expression, and diurnal temporal susceptibility. Chronic DC-band cortical EEG recording from behaving conditional Kcnq2 deletion mice (Emx1cre/+::Kcnq2flox/flox) revealed spontaneous cortical seizures and spreading depolarization. In contrast to the related potassium channel deficient model, Kv1.1-KO mice, spontaneous cortical spreading depolarizations in Kcnq2 cKO mice are tightly coupled to the terminal phase of seizures, arise bilaterally, and are observed predominantly during the dark phase. Administration of the non-selective Kv7.2 inhibitor XE991 to Kv1.1-KO mice partly reproduced the Kcnq2 cKO-like spreading depolarization phenotype (tight seizure coupling and bilateral symmetry) in these mice, indicating that Kv7.2 currents can directly and actively modulate spreading depolarization properties. In vitro brain slice studies confirmed that Kcnq2/Kv7.2 depletion or pharmacological inhibition intrinsically lowers the cortical spreading depolarization threshold, whereas pharmacological Kv7.2 activators elevate the threshold to multiple depolarizing and hypometabolic spreading depolarization triggers. Together these results identify Kcnq2/Kv7.2 as a distinctive spreading depolarization regulatory gene, and point to spreading depolarization as a potentially significant pathophysiological component of KCNQ2-linked epileptic encephalopathy syndromes. Our results also implicate KCNQ2/Kv7.2 channel activation as a potential adjunctive therapeutic target to inhibit spreading depolarization incidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isamu Aiba
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jeffrey L Noebels
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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14
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Neural excitability increases with axonal resistance between soma and axon initial segment. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2102217118. [PMID: 34389672 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2102217118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The position of the axon initial segment (AIS) is thought to play a critical role in neuronal excitability. Previous experimental studies have found that a distal shift in AIS position correlates with a reduction in excitability. Yet theoretical work has suggested the opposite, because of increased electrical isolation. A distal shift in AIS position corresponds to an elevation of axial resistance R a We therefore examined how changes in R a at the axon hillock impact the voltage threshold (Vth) of the somatic action potential in L5 pyramidal neurons. Increasing R a by mechanically pinching the axon between the soma and the AIS was found to lower Vth by ∼6 mV. Conversely, decreasing R a by substituting internal ions with higher mobility elevated Vth All R a -dependent changes in Vth could be reproduced in a Hodgkin-Huxley compartmental model. We conclude that in L5 pyramidal neurons, excitability increases with axial resistance and therefore with a distal shift of the AIS.
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15
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Robert V, Therreau L, Davatolhagh MF, Bernardo-Garcia FJ, Clements KN, Chevaleyre V, Piskorowski RA. The mechanisms shaping CA2 pyramidal neuron action potential bursting induced by muscarinic acetylcholine receptor activation. J Gen Physiol 2021; 152:133812. [PMID: 32069351 PMCID: PMC7141590 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201912462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed that hippocampal area CA2 plays an important role in hippocampal network function. Disruption of this region has been implicated in neuropsychiatric disorders. It is well appreciated that cholinergic input to the hippocampus plays an important role in learning and memory. While the effect of elevated cholinergic tone has been well studied in areas CA1 and CA3, it remains unclear how changes in cholinergic tone impact synaptic transmission and the intrinsic properties of neurons in area CA2. In this study, we applied the cholinergic agonist carbachol and performed on-cell, whole-cell, and extracellular recordings in area CA2. We observed that under conditions of high cholinergic tone, CA2 pyramidal neurons depolarized and rhythmically fired bursts of action potentials. This depolarization depended on the activation of M1 and M3 cholinergic receptors. Furthermore, we examined how the intrinsic properties and action-potential firing were altered in CA2 pyramidal neurons treated with 10 µM carbachol. While this intrinsic burst firing persisted in the absence of synaptic transmission, bursts were shaped by synaptic inputs in the intact network. We found that both excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission were reduced upon carbachol treatment. Finally, we examined the contribution of different channels to the cholinergic-induced changes in neuronal properties. We found that a conductance from Kv7 channels partially contributed to carbachol-induced changes in resting membrane potential and membrane resistance. We also found that D-type potassium currents contributed to controlling several properties of the bursts, including firing rate and burst kinetics. Furthermore, we determined that T-type calcium channels and small conductance calcium-activated potassium channels play a role in regulating bursting activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Robert
- Université Paris Descartes, Inserm UMR1266, Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Paris, Team Synaptic Plasticity and Neural Networks, Paris, France
| | - Ludivine Therreau
- Université Paris Descartes, Inserm UMR1266, Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Paris, Team Synaptic Plasticity and Neural Networks, Paris, France
| | - M Felicia Davatolhagh
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - F Javier Bernardo-Garcia
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | | | - Vivien Chevaleyre
- Université Paris Descartes, Inserm UMR1266, Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Paris, Team Synaptic Plasticity and Neural Networks, Paris, France
| | - Rebecca A Piskorowski
- Université Paris Descartes, Inserm UMR1266, Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Paris, Team Synaptic Plasticity and Neural Networks, Paris, France
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16
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Dwivedi D, Bhalla US. Physiology and Therapeutic Potential of SK, H, and M Medium AfterHyperPolarization Ion Channels. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:658435. [PMID: 34149352 PMCID: PMC8209339 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.658435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
SK, HCN, and M channels are medium afterhyperpolarization (mAHP)-mediating ion channels. The three channels co-express in various brain regions, and their collective action strongly influences cellular excitability. However, significant diversity exists in the expression of channel isoforms in distinct brain regions and various subcellular compartments, which contributes to an equally diverse set of specific neuronal functions. The current review emphasizes the collective behavior of the three classes of mAHP channels and discusses how these channels function together although they play specialized roles. We discuss the biophysical properties of these channels, signaling pathways that influence the activity of the three mAHP channels, various chemical modulators that alter channel activity and their therapeutic potential in treating various neurological anomalies. Additionally, we discuss the role of mAHP channels in the pathophysiology of various neurological diseases and how their modulation can alleviate some of the symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepanjali Dwivedi
- National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, GKVK Campus, Bengaluru, India.,Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Stanley Center at the Broad, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Upinder S Bhalla
- National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, GKVK Campus, Bengaluru, India
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17
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Martiszus BJ, Tsintsadze T, Chang W, Smith SM. Enhanced excitability of cortical neurons in low-divalent solutions is primarily mediated by altered voltage-dependence of voltage-gated sodium channels. eLife 2021; 10:67914. [PMID: 33973519 PMCID: PMC8163501 DOI: 10.7554/elife.67914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing extracellular [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]o) strongly decreases intrinsic excitability in neurons but the mechanism is unclear. By one hypothesis, [Ca2+]o screens surface charge, reducing voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) activation and by another [Ca2+]o activates Calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) closing the sodium-leak channel (NALCN). Here we report that neocortical neurons from CaSR-deficient (Casr-/-) mice had more negative resting potentials and did not fire spontaneously in reduced divalent-containing solution (T0.2) in contrast with wild-type (WT). However, after setting membrane potential to −70 mV, T0.2 application similarly depolarized and increased action potential firing in Casr-/- and WT neurons. Enhanced activation of VGSCs was the dominant contributor to the depolarization and increase in excitability by T0.2 and occurred due to hyperpolarizing shifts in VGSC window currents. CaSR deletion depolarized VGSC window currents but did not affect NALCN activation. Regulation of VGSC gating by external divalents is the key mechanism mediating divalent-dependent changes in neocortical neuron excitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Briana J Martiszus
- Section of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, United States.,Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, United States
| | - Timur Tsintsadze
- Section of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, United States.,Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, United States
| | - Wenhan Chang
- Endocrine Research Unit, Veterans Affairs Medical Center and University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States
| | - Stephen M Smith
- Section of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, United States.,Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, United States
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18
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Izumi S, Domoto M, Esaki H, Sasase H, Nishitani N, Deyama S, Kaneda K. Nicotine Enhances Firing Activity of Layer 5 Pyramidal Neurons in the Medial Prefrontal Cortex through Inhibition of Kv7 Channels. Biol Pharm Bull 2021; 44:724-731. [PMID: 33952828 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b21-00137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Nicotine enhances attention, working memory and recognition. One of the brain regions associated with these effects of nicotine is the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). However, cellular mechanisms that induce the enhancing effects of nicotine remain unclear. To address this issue, we performed whole-cell patch-clamp recordings from mPFC layer 5 pyramidal neurons in slices of C57BL/6J mice. Shortly (approx. 2 min) after bath application of nicotine, the number of action potentials, which were elicited by depolarizing current injection, was increased, and this increase persisted for over 5 min. The effect of nicotine was blocked by the α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) antagonist dihydro-β-erythroidine, α7 nAChR antagonist methyllycaconitine, or intracellular perfusion with the Ca2+ chelator 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (BAPTA). Additionally, the voltage-dependent potassium 7 (Kv7) channel blocker, 10,10-bis(4-pyridinylmethyl)-9(10H)-anthracenone dihydrochloride (XE-991), as well as nicotine, shortened the spike threshold latency and increased the spike numbers. By contrast, the Kv7 channel opener, retigabine reduced the number of firings, and the addition of nicotine did not increase the spike numbers. These results indicate that nicotine induces long-lasting enhancement of firing activity in mPFC layer 5 pyramidal neurons, which is mediated by the stimulation of the α4β2 and α7 nAChRs and subsequent increase in intracellular Ca2+ levels followed by the suppression of the Kv7 channels. The novel effect of nicotine might underlie the nicotine-induced enhancement of attention, working memory and recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoma Izumi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University
| | - Masaki Domoto
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University
| | - Hirohito Esaki
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University
| | - Hitoki Sasase
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University
| | - Naoya Nishitani
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University
| | - Satoshi Deyama
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University
| | - Katsuyuki Kaneda
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University
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19
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Lipkin AM, Cunniff MM, Spratt PWE, Lemke SM, Bender KJ. Functional Microstructure of Ca V-Mediated Calcium Signaling in the Axon Initial Segment. J Neurosci 2021; 41:3764-3776. [PMID: 33731449 PMCID: PMC8084313 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2843-20.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The axon initial segment (AIS) is a specialized neuronal compartment in which synaptic input is converted into action potential (AP) output. This process is supported by a diverse complement of sodium, potassium, and calcium channels (CaV). Different classes of sodium and potassium channels are scaffolded at specific sites within the AIS, conferring unique functions, but how calcium channels are functionally distributed within the AIS is unclear. Here, we use conventional two-photon laser scanning and diffraction-limited, high-speed spot two-photon imaging to resolve AP-evoked calcium dynamics in the AIS with high spatiotemporal resolution. In mouse layer 5 prefrontal pyramidal neurons, calcium influx was mediated by a mix of CaV2 and CaV3 channels that differentially localized to discrete regions. CaV3 functionally localized to produce nanodomain hotspots of calcium influx that coupled to ryanodine-sensitive stores, whereas CaV2 localized to non-hotspot regions. Thus, different pools of CaVs appear to play distinct roles in AIS function.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The axon initial segment (AIS) is the site where synaptic input is transformed into action potential (AP) output. It achieves this function through a diverse complement of sodium, potassium, and calcium channels (CaV). While the localization and function of sodium channels and potassium channels at the AIS is well described, less is known about the functional distribution of CaVs. We used high-speed two-photon imaging to understand activity-dependent calcium dynamics in the AIS of mouse neocortical pyramidal neurons. Surprisingly, we found that calcium influx occurred in two distinct domains: CaV3 generates hotspot regions of calcium influx coupled to calcium stores, whereas CaV2 channels underlie diffuse calcium influx between hotspots. Therefore, different CaV classes localize to distinct AIS subdomains, possibly regulating distinct cellular processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Lipkin
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, California 94158
| | - Margaret M Cunniff
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, California 94158
| | - Perry W E Spratt
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, California 94158
| | - Stefan M Lemke
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, California 94158
| | - Kevin J Bender
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, California 94158
- Department of Neurology, Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, California 94158
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20
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The M-current works in tandem with the persistent sodium current to set the speed of locomotion. PLoS Biol 2020; 18:e3000738. [PMID: 33186352 PMCID: PMC7688130 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The central pattern generator (CPG) for locomotion is a set of pacemaker neurons endowed with inherent bursting driven by the persistent sodium current (INaP). How they proceed to regulate the locomotor rhythm remained unknown. Here, in neonatal rodents, we identified a persistent potassium current critical in regulating pacemakers and locomotion speed. This current recapitulates features of the M-current (IM): a subthreshold noninactivating outward current blocked by 10,10-bis(4-pyridinylmethyl)-9(10H)-anthracenone dihydrochloride (XE991) and enhanced by N-(2-chloro-5-pyrimidinyl)-3,4-difluorobenzamide (ICA73). Immunostaining and mutant mice highlight an important role of Kv7.2-containing channels in mediating IM. Pharmacological modulation of IM regulates the emergence and the frequency regime of both pacemaker and CPG activities and controls the speed of locomotion. Computational models captured these results and showed how an interplay between IM and INaP endows the locomotor CPG with rhythmogenic properties. Overall, this study provides fundamental insights into how IM and INaP work in tandem to set the speed of locomotion.
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21
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Adonias GL, Siljak H, Barros MT, Marchetti N, White M, Balasubramaniam S. Reconfigurable Filtering of Neuro-Spike Communications Using Synthetically Engineered Logic Circuits. Front Comput Neurosci 2020; 14:556628. [PMID: 33178001 PMCID: PMC7593240 DOI: 10.3389/fncom.2020.556628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
High-frequency firing activity can be induced either naturally in a healthy brain as a result of the processing of sensory stimuli or as an uncontrolled synchronous activity characterizing epileptic seizures. As part of this work, we investigate how logic circuits that are engineered in neurons can be used to design spike filters, attenuating high-frequency activity in a neuronal network that can be used to minimize the effects of neurodegenerative disorders such as epilepsy. We propose a reconfigurable filter design built from small neuronal networks that behave as digital logic circuits. We developed a mathematical framework to obtain a transfer function derived from a linearization process of the Hodgkin-Huxley model. Our results suggest that individual gates working as the output of the logic circuits can be used as a reconfigurable filtering technique. Also, as part of the analysis, the analytical model showed similar levels of attenuation in the frequency domain when compared to computational simulations by fine-tuning the synaptic weight. The proposed approach can potentially lead to precise and tunable treatments for neurological conditions that are inspired by communication theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoflly L Adonias
- Telecommunications Software & Systems Group, Waterford Institute of Technology, Waterford, Ireland
| | - Harun Siljak
- CONNECT Centre, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michael Taynnan Barros
- CBIG at Biomeditech, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.,School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, University of Essex, Colchester, United Kingdom
| | | | - Mark White
- Research, Innovation & Graduate Studies, Waterford Institute of Technology, Waterford, Ireland
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22
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Santoro B, Shah MM. Hyperpolarization-Activated Cyclic Nucleotide-Gated Channels as Drug Targets for Neurological Disorders. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2020; 60:109-131. [PMID: 31914897 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-010919-023356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels are voltage-gated ion channels that critically modulate neuronal activity. Four HCN subunits (HCN1-4) have been cloned, each having a unique expression profile and distinctive effects on neuronal excitability within the brain. Consistent with this, the expression and function of these subunits are altered in diverse ways in neurological disorders. Here, we review current knowledge on the structure and distribution of the individual HCN channel isoforms, their effects on neuronal activity under physiological conditions, and how their expression and function are altered in neurological disorders, particularly epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and affective disorders. We discuss the suitability of HCN channels as therapeutic targets and how drugs might be strategically designed to specifically act on particular isoforms. We conclude that medicines that target individual HCN isoforms and/or their auxiliary subunit, TRIP8b, may provide valuable means of treating distinct neurological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bina Santoro
- Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Mala M Shah
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University College London, London WC1N 1AX, United Kingdom;
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Benedetti B, Dannehl D, Janssen JM, Corcelli C, Couillard-Després S, Engelhardt M. Structural and Functional Maturation of Rat Primary Motor Cortex Layer V Neurons. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6101. [PMID: 32847128 PMCID: PMC7503395 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Rodent neocortical neurons undergo prominent postnatal development and maturation. The process is associated with structural and functional maturation of the axon initial segment (AIS), the site of action potential initiation. In this regard, cell size and optimal AIS length are interconnected. In sensory cortices, developmental onset of sensory input and consequent changes in network activity cause phasic AIS plasticity that can also control functional output. In non-sensory cortices, network input driving phasic events should be less prominent. We, therefore, explored the relationship between postnatal functional maturation and AIS maturation in principal neurons of the primary motor cortex layer V (M1LV), a non-sensory area of the rat brain. We hypothesized that a rather continuous process of AIS maturation and elongation would reflect cell growth, accompanied by progressive refinement of functional output properties. We found that, in the first two postnatal weeks, cell growth prompted substantial decline of neuronal input resistance, such that older neurons needed larger input current to reach rheobase and fire action potentials. In the same period, we observed the most prominent AIS elongation and significant maturation of functional output properties. Alternating phases of AIS plasticity did not occur, and changes in functional output properties were largely justified by AIS elongation. From the third postnatal week up to five months of age, cell growth, AIS elongation, and functional output maturation were marginal. Thus, AIS maturation in M1LV is a continuous process that attunes the functional output of pyramidal neurons and associates with early postnatal development to counterbalance increasing electrical leakage due to cell growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Benedetti
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (D.D.); (S.C.-D.)
- Institute of Experimental Neuroregeneration, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1000 Vienna, Austria
| | - Dominik Dannehl
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (D.D.); (S.C.-D.)
- Institute of Experimental Neuroregeneration, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (J.M.J.); (C.C.)
- Mannheim Center for Translational Neuroscience (MCTN), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jan Maximilian Janssen
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (J.M.J.); (C.C.)
- Mannheim Center for Translational Neuroscience (MCTN), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Corinna Corcelli
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (J.M.J.); (C.C.)
- Mannheim Center for Translational Neuroscience (MCTN), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sébastien Couillard-Després
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), 5020 Salzburg, Austria; (D.D.); (S.C.-D.)
- Institute of Experimental Neuroregeneration, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1000 Vienna, Austria
| | - Maren Engelhardt
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (J.M.J.); (C.C.)
- Mannheim Center for Translational Neuroscience (MCTN), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
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Mechanisms Underlying Enhancement of Spontaneous Glutamate Release by Group I mGluRs at a Central Auditory Synapse. J Neurosci 2020; 40:7027-7042. [PMID: 32801152 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2771-19.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
One emerging concept in neuroscience states that synaptic vesicles and the molecular machinery underlying spontaneous transmitter release are different from those underlying action potential-driven synchronized transmitter release. Differential neuromodulation of these two distinct release modes by metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) constitutes critical supporting evidence. However, the mechanisms underlying such a differential modulation are not understood. Here, we investigated the mechanisms of the modulation by group I mGluRs (mGluR Is) on spontaneous glutamate release in the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body (MNTB), an auditory brainstem nucleus critically involved in sound localization. Whole-cell patch recordings from brainstem slices of mice of both sexes were performed. Activation of mGluR I by 3,5-dihydroxyphenylglycine (3,5-DHPG; 200 μm) produced an inward current at -60 mV and increased spontaneous glutamate release in MNTB neurons. Pharmacological evidence indicated involvement of both mGluR1 and mGluR5, which was further supported for mGluR5 by immunolabeling results. The modulation was eliminated by blocking NaV channels (tetrodotoxin, 1 μm), persistent Na+ current (I NaP; riluzole, 10 μm), or CaV channels (CdCl2, 100 μm). Presynaptic calyx recordings revealed that 3,5-DHPG shifted the activation of I NaP to more hyperpolarized voltages and increased I NaP at resting membrane potential. Our data indicate that mGluR I enhances spontaneous glutamate release via regulation of I NaP and subsequent Ca2+-dependent processes under resting condition.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT For brain cells to communicate with each other, neurons release chemical messengers, termed neurotransmitters, in response to action potential invasion (evoked release). Neurons also release neurotransmitters spontaneously. Recent work has revealed different release machineries underlying these two release modes, and their different roles in synaptic development and plasticity. Our recent work discovered differential neuromodulation of these two release modes, but the mechanisms are not well understood. The present study showed that activation of group I metabotropic glutamate receptors enhanced spontaneous glutamate release in an auditory brainstem nucleus, while suppressing evoked release. The modulation is dependent on a persistent Na+ current and involves subsequent Ca2+ signaling, providing insight into the mechanisms underlying the different release modes in auditory processing.
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Wie J, Bharthur A, Wolfgang M, Narayanan V, Ramsey K, Aranda K, Zhang Q, Zhou Y, Ren D. Intellectual disability-associated UNC80 mutations reveal inter-subunit interaction and dendritic function of the NALCN channel complex. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3351. [PMID: 32620897 PMCID: PMC7335163 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-17105-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The sodium-leak channel NALCN forms a subthreshold sodium conductance that controls the resting membrane potentials of neurons. The auxiliary subunits of the channel and their functions in mammals are largely unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that two large proteins UNC80 and UNC79 are subunits of the NALCN complex. UNC80 knockout mice are neonatal lethal. The C-terminus of UNC80 contains a domain that interacts with UNC79 and overcomes a soma-retention signal to achieve dendritic localization. UNC80 lacking this domain, as found in human patients, still supports whole-cell NALCN currents but lacks dendritic localization. Our results establish the subunit composition of the NALCN complex, uncover the inter-subunit interaction domains, reveal the functional significance of regulation of dendritic membrane potential by the sodium-leak channel complex, and provide evidence supporting that genetic variations found in individuals with intellectual disability are the causes for the phenotype observed in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhong Wie
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Apoorva Bharthur
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Morgan Wolfgang
- Center for Rare Childhood Disorders, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, AZ, 85012, USA
| | - Vinodh Narayanan
- Center for Rare Childhood Disorders, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, AZ, 85012, USA
| | - Keri Ramsey
- Center for Rare Childhood Disorders, Translational Genomics Research Institute, Phoenix, AZ, 85012, USA
| | - Kimberly Aranda
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Yandong Zhou
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Dejian Ren
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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An axon-specific expression of HCN channels catalyzes fast action potential signaling in GABAergic interneurons. Nat Commun 2020; 11:2248. [PMID: 32382046 PMCID: PMC7206118 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-15791-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
During high-frequency network activities, fast-spiking, parvalbumin-expressing basket cells (PV+-BCs) generate barrages of fast synaptic inhibition to control the probability and precise timing of action potential (AP) initiation in principal neurons. Here we describe a subcellular specialization that contributes to the high speed of synaptic inhibition mediated by PV+-BCs. Mapping of hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channel distribution in rat hippocampal PV+-BCs with subcellular patch-clamp methods revealed that functional HCN channels are exclusively expressed in axons and completely absent from somata and dendrites. HCN channels not only enhance AP initiation during sustained high-frequency firing but also speed up the propagation of AP trains in PV+-BC axons by dynamically opposing the hyperpolarization produced by Na+-K+ ATPases. Since axonal AP signaling determines the timing of synaptic communication, the axon-specific expression of HCN channels represents a specialization for PV+-BCs to operate at high speed. The precise subcellular location of ion channels is a key determinant of their functions. Here, subcellular patch-clamp recordings demonstrate that an axon-specific expression of HCN channels facilitates the initiation and propagation of action potentials in parvalbumin-expressing basket cells.
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27
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Zbili M, Rama S, Yger P, Inglebert Y, Boumedine-Guignon N, Fronzaroli-Moliniere L, Brette R, Russier M, Debanne D. Axonal Na + channels detect and transmit levels of input synchrony in local brain circuits. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaay4313. [PMID: 32494697 PMCID: PMC7202877 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aay4313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Sensory processing requires mechanisms of fast coincidence detection to discriminate synchronous from asynchronous inputs. Spike threshold adaptation enables such a discrimination but is ineffective in transmitting this information to the network. We show here that presynaptic axonal sodium channels read and transmit precise levels of input synchrony to the postsynaptic cell by modulating the presynaptic action potential (AP) amplitude. As a consequence, synaptic transmission is facilitated at cortical synapses when the presynaptic spike is produced by synchronous inputs. Using dual soma-axon recordings, imaging, and modeling, we show that this facilitation results from enhanced AP amplitude in the axon due to minimized inactivation of axonal sodium channels. Quantifying local circuit activity and using network modeling, we found that spikes induced by synchronous inputs produced a larger effect on network activity than spikes induced by asynchronous inputs. Therefore, this input synchrony-dependent facilitation may constitute a powerful mechanism, regulating synaptic transmission at proximal synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mickaël Zbili
- UNIS, INSERM, UMR 1072, Aix-Marseille Université, 13015, Marseille, France
| | - Sylvain Rama
- UNIS, INSERM, UMR 1072, Aix-Marseille Université, 13015, Marseille, France
| | - Pierre Yger
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Yanis Inglebert
- UNIS, INSERM, UMR 1072, Aix-Marseille Université, 13015, Marseille, France
| | | | | | - Romain Brette
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Michaël Russier
- UNIS, INSERM, UMR 1072, Aix-Marseille Université, 13015, Marseille, France
| | - Dominique Debanne
- UNIS, INSERM, UMR 1072, Aix-Marseille Université, 13015, Marseille, France
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28
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Abstract
Analog signaling describes the use of graded voltage changes as signals in the axonal compartment. Analog signaling has been described originally in invertebrates but more recent work has established its presence in the mammalian brain (Alle and Geiger, 2006; Shu et al., 2006). In recent years, many different groups have contributed to the understanding of the physiological significance of analog signaling from a cellular perspective (for a recent review the reader may take a look at the work by Zbili and Debanne, 2019 in this Frontiers in Neuroscience Special Issue). The great majority of the experimental work related to analog signaling, however, concerns the propagation of subthreshold voltage changes from the soma to the axon. Much less attention has been paid to the propagation of subthreshold voltage changes in the opposite direction, from the axon to the soma, or to the propagation of local signals within the axon. In this mini review we will describe these other variants of analog signaling that we call here “antidromic” coupling and “local” coupling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico F Trigo
- CNRS UMR8003, SPPIN Laboratory, Cerebellar Neurophysiology Group, Faculté des Sciences Fondamentales et Biomédicales, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Departamento de Neurofisiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Uruguay
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29
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The Autism-Associated Gene Scn2a Contributes to Dendritic Excitability and Synaptic Function in the Prefrontal Cortex. Neuron 2019; 103:673-685.e5. [PMID: 31230762 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2019.05.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is strongly associated with de novo gene mutations. One of the most commonly affected genes is SCN2A. ASD-associated SCN2A mutations impair the encoded protein NaV1.2, a sodium channel important for action potential initiation and propagation in developing excitatory cortical neurons. The link between an axonal sodium channel and ASD, a disorder typically attributed to synaptic or transcriptional dysfunction, is unclear. Here we show that NaV1.2 is unexpectedly critical for dendritic excitability and synaptic function in mature pyramidal neurons in addition to regulating early developmental axonal excitability. NaV1.2 loss reduced action potential backpropagation into dendrites, impairing synaptic plasticity and synaptic strength, even when NaV1.2 expression was disrupted in a cell-autonomous fashion late in development. These results reveal a novel dendritic function for NaV1.2, providing insight into cellular mechanisms probably underlying circuit and behavioral dysfunction in ASD.
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30
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Raastad M. The Slow Depolarization Following Individual Spikes in Thin, Unmyelinated Axons in Mammalian Cortex. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:203. [PMID: 31156391 PMCID: PMC6532452 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
An important goal in neuroscience is to understand how neuronal excitability is controlled. Therefore, Gardner-Medwin's 1972 discovery, that cerebellar parallel fibers were more excitable up to 100 ms after individual action potentials, could have had great impact. If this long-lasting effect were due to intrinsic membrane mechanisms causing a depolarizing after-potential (DAP) this was an important finding. However, that hypothesis met resistance because the use of K+ sensitive electrodes showed that synchronous activation, as commonly used in excitability tests, increased extracellular K+ concentration sufficiently to explain much of the hyperexcitability. It is still controversial because intra-axonal recordings, which could have settled the debate, have not been made from parallel fibers or other axons of similar calibers. If it had not been for the fact that such thin axons are, by far, the most common axon type in cortical areas and control almost all glutamate release, it would be tempting to ignore them until an appropriate intra-axonal recording technique is invented. I will go through the literature that, taken together, supports the hypothesis that a DAP is an intrinsic membrane mechanism in cerebellar parallel fibers and hippocampal Schaffer collaterals. It is most likely due to a well-controlled process that stops the fast repolarization at a membrane potential positive to resting membrane potential, leaving the membrane more excitable for ~100 ms during a slow, passive discharge of the membrane capacitance. The DAP helps reduce failures but can also cause uncontrolled bursting if it is not properly controlled. The voltage at which the fast repolarization stops, and the DAP starts, is close the activation range of both Na+ and Ca2+ voltage activated channels and is therefore essential for neuronal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morten Raastad
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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31
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Martinello K, Giacalone E, Migliore M, Brown DA, Shah MM. The subthreshold-active K V7 current regulates neurotransmission by limiting spike-induced Ca 2+ influx in hippocampal mossy fiber synaptic terminals. Commun Biol 2019; 2:145. [PMID: 31044170 PMCID: PMC6486593 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-019-0408-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Little is known about the properties and function of ion channels that affect synaptic terminal-resting properties. One particular subthreshold-active ion channel, the Kv7 potassium channel, is highly localized to axons, but its role in regulating synaptic terminal intrinsic excitability and release is largely unexplored. Using electrophysiological recordings together with computational modeling, we found that the KV7 current was active at rest in adult hippocampal mossy fiber synaptic terminals and enhanced their membrane conductance. The current also restrained action potential-induced Ca2+ influx via N- and P/Q-type Ca2+ channels in boutons. This was associated with a substantial reduction in the spike half-width and afterdepolarization following presynaptic spikes. Further, by constraining spike-induced Ca2+ influx, the presynaptic KV7 current decreased neurotransmission onto CA3 pyramidal neurons and short-term synaptic plasticity at the mossy fiber-CA3 synapse. This is a distinctive mechanism by which KV7 channels influence hippocampal neuronal excitability and synaptic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michele Migliore
- Institute of Biophysics, National Research Council, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - David A. Brown
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT UK
| | - Mala M. Shah
- UCL School of Pharmacy University College London, London, WC1N 1AX UK
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32
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Alpizar SA, Cho IH, Hoppa MB. Subcellular control of membrane excitability in the axon. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2019; 57:117-125. [PMID: 30784979 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2019.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Ion channels are microscopic pore proteins in the membrane that open and close in response to chemical and electrical stimuli. This simple concept underlies rapid electrical signaling in the brain as well as several important aspects of neural plasticity. Although the soma accounts for less than 1% of many neurons by membrane area, it has been the major site of measuring ion channel function. However, the axon is one of the longest processes found in cellular biology and hosts a multitude of critical signaling functions in the brain. Not only does the axon initiate and rapidly propagate action potentials (APs) across the brain but it also forms the presynaptic terminals that convert these electrical inputs into chemical outputs. Here, we review recent advances in the physiological role of ion channels within the diverse landscape of the axon and presynaptic terminals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott A Alpizar
- Dartmouth College, Department of Biological Sciences, Hanover, NH, United States
| | - In Ha Cho
- Dartmouth College, Department of Biological Sciences, Hanover, NH, United States
| | - Michael B Hoppa
- Dartmouth College, Department of Biological Sciences, Hanover, NH, United States.
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Lehnhoff J, Strauss U, Wierschke S, Grosser S, Pollali E, Schneider UC, Holtkamp M, Dehnicke C, Deisz RA. The anticonvulsant lamotrigine enhances Ih in layer 2/3 neocortical pyramidal neurons of patients with pharmacoresistant epilepsy. Neuropharmacology 2019; 144:58-69. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Revised: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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34
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Corbin-Leftwich A, Small HE, Robinson HH, Villalba-Galea CA, Boland LM. A Xenopus oocyte model system to study action potentials. J Gen Physiol 2018; 150:1583-1593. [PMID: 30266757 PMCID: PMC6219683 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201812146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated Na+ and K+ channels are known to underlie the temporal characteristics of action potentials. Corbin-Leftwich et al. establish reliable action potential recordings from Xenopus oocytes coexpressing these channels and show how different K+ channel subtypes can modulate excitability. Action potentials (APs) are the functional units of fast electrical signaling in excitable cells. The upstroke and downstroke of an AP is generated by the competing and asynchronous action of Na+- and K+-selective voltage-gated conductances. Although a mixture of voltage-gated channels has been long recognized to contribute to the generation and temporal characteristics of the AP, understanding how each of these proteins function and are regulated during electrical signaling remains the subject of intense research. AP properties vary among different cellular types because of the expression diversity, subcellular location, and modulation of ion channels. These complexities, in addition to the functional coupling of these proteins by membrane potential, make it challenging to understand the roles of different channels in initiating and “temporally shaping” the AP. Here, to address this problem, we focus our efforts on finding conditions that allow reliable AP recordings from Xenopus laevis oocytes coexpressing Na+ and K+ channels. As a proof of principle, we show how the expression of a variety of K+ channel subtypes can modulate excitability in this minimal model system. This approach raises the prospect of studies on the modulation of APs by pharmacological or biological means with a controlled background of Na+ and K+ channel expression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hannah E Small
- Department of Biology, University of Richmond, Richmond, VA
| | | | - Carlos A Villalba-Galea
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA .,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA
| | - Linda M Boland
- Department of Biology, University of Richmond, Richmond, VA
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