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Hu J, Li H, Wang X, Cheng H, Zhu G, Yang S. Novel mechanisms of Anshen Dingzhi prescription against PTSD: Inhibiting DCC to modulate synaptic function and inflammatory responses. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 333:118425. [PMID: 38848974 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Anshen Dingzhi prescription (ADP), documented in "Yi Xue Xin Wu", is a famous prescription for treating panic-related mental disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms by which ADP intervened in PTSD-like behaviors. METHODS A mouse model of single prolonged stress (SPS) was established to evaluate the ameliorative effects and mechanisms of ADP on PTSD. Behavioral tests were used to assess PTSD-like behaviors in mice; transmission electron microscopy was used to observe changes in the ultrastructure of hippocampal synapses, and western blot, immunofluorescence, and ELISA were used to detect the expression of hippocampal deleted in colorectal cancer (DCC) and downstream Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) - P21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) signal, as well as levels of synaptic proteins and inflammatory factors. Molecular docking technology simulated the binding of potential brain-penetrating components of ADP to DCC. RESULTS SPS induced PTSD-like behaviors in mice and increased expression of hippocampal netrin-1 (NT-1) and DCC on the 14th day post-modeling, with concurrent elevation in serum NT-1 levels. Simultaneously, SPS also decreased p-Rac1 level and increased p-PAK1 level, the down-stream molecules of DCC. Lentiviral overexpression of DCC induced or exacerbated PTSD-like behaviors in control and SPS mice, respectively, whereas neutralization antibody against NT-1 reduced DCC activation and ameliorated PTSD-like behaviors in SPS mice. Interestingly, downstream Rac1-PAK1 signal was altered according to DCC expression. Moreover, DCC overexpression down-regulated N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor 2A (GluN2A) and postsynaptic density 95 (PSD95), up-regulated NMDA receptor 2B (GluN2B) and increased neuroinflammatory responses. Administration of ADP (36.8 mg/kg) improved PTSD-like behaviors in the SPS mice, suppressed hippocampal DCC, and downstream Rac1-PAK1 signal, upregulated GluN2A and PSD95, downregulated GluN2B, and reduced levels of inflammatory factors NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Importantly, DCC overexpression could also reduce the ameliorative effect of ADP on PTSD. Additionally, DCC demonstrated a favorable molecular docking pattern with the potential brain-penetrating components of ADP, further suggesting DCC as a potential target of ADP. CONCLUSION Our data indicate that DCC is a key target for the regulation of synaptic function and inflammatory response in the onset of PTSD, and ADP likely reduces DCC to prevent PTSD via modulating downstream Rac1-PAK1 pathway. This study provides a novel mechanism for the onset of PTSD and warrants the clinical application of ADP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiamin Hu
- Center for Xin'an Medicine and Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine of IHM, Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China.
| | - Haipeng Li
- Center for Xin'an Medicine and Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine of IHM, Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China.
| | - Xuncui Wang
- Center for Xin'an Medicine and Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine of IHM, Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China.
| | - Hongliang Cheng
- The Second Affiliation Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230061, China.
| | - Guoqi Zhu
- Center for Xin'an Medicine and Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine of IHM, Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230012, China.
| | - Shaojie Yang
- The Second Affiliation Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, 230061, China.
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Bean L, Bose PK, Rani A, Kumar A. Serine racemase expression profile in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampal subregions during aging in male and female rats. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:8402-8416. [PMID: 38761177 PMCID: PMC11164512 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Aging is associated with a decrease in N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor function, which is critical for maintaining synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. Activation of the NMDA receptor requires binding of the neurotransmitter glutamate and also the presence of co-agonist D-serine at the glycine site. The enzymatic conversion of L-serine to D-serine is facilitated by the enzyme serine racemase (SR). Subsequently, SR plays a pivotal role in regulating NMDA receptor activity, thereby impacting synaptic plasticity and memory processes in the central nervous system. As such, age-related changes in the expression of SR could contribute to decreased NMDA receptor function. However, age-associated changes in SR expression levels in the medial and lateral prefrontal cortex (mPFC, lPFC), and in the dorsal hippocampal subfields, CA1, CA3, and dentate gyrus (DG), have not been thoroughly elucidated. Therefore, the current studies were designed to determine the SR expression profile, including protein levels and mRNA, for these regions in aged and young male and female Fischer-344 rats. Our results demonstrate a significant reduction in SR expression levels in the mPFC and all hippocampal subfields of aged rats compared to young rats. No sex differences were observed in the expression of SR. These findings suggest that the decrease in SR levels may play a role in the age-associated reduction of NMDA receptor function in brain regions crucial for cognitive function and synaptic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Bean
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiology, IU School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46201, USA
| | - Prodip K. Bose
- Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, Malcom Randall Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, FL 32607, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Department of Neurology at the College of Medicine, University of Florida, FL 32607, USA
| | - Asha Rani
- Department of Neuroscience, The McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32607, USA
| | - Ashok Kumar
- Department of Neuroscience, The McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32607, USA
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Tan R, Ma R, Chu F, Zhou X, Wang X, Yin T, Liu Z. Study on Improving the Modulatory Effect of Rhythmic Oscillations by Transcranial Magneto-Acoustic Stimulation. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2024; 32:1796-1805. [PMID: 38691431 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2024.3395641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
In hippocampus, synaptic plasticity and rhythmic oscillations reflect the cytological basis and the intermediate level of cognition, respectively. Transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS) has demonstrated the ability to elicit changes in neural response. However, the modulatory effect of TUS on synaptic plasticity and rhythmic oscillations was insufficient in the present studies, which may be attributed to the fact that TUS acts mainly through mechanical forces. To enhance the modulatory effect on synaptic plasticity and rhythmic oscillations, transcranial magneto-acoustic stimulation (TMAS) which induced a coupled electric field together with TUS's ultrasound field was applied. The modulatory effect of TMAS and TUS with a pulse repetition frequency of 100 Hz were compared. TMAS/TUS were performed on C57 mice for 7 days at two different ultrasound intensities (3 W/cm2 and 5 W/cm [Formula: see text]. Behavioral tests, long-term potential (LTP) and local field potentials in vivo were performed to evaluate TUS/TMAS modulatory effect on cognition, synaptic plasticity and rhythmic oscillations. Protein expression based on western blotting were used to investigate the under- lying mechanisms of these beneficial effects. At 5 W/cm2, TMAS-induced LTP were 113.4% compared to the sham group and 110.5% compared to TUS. Moreover, the relative power of high gamma oscillations (50-100Hz) in the TMAS group ( 1.060±0.155 %) was markedly higher than that in the TUS group ( 0.560±0.114 %) and sham group ( 0.570±0.088 %). TMAS significantly enhanced the synchronization of theta and gamma oscillations as well as theta-gamma cross-frequency coupling. Whereas, TUS did not show relative enhancements. TMAS provides enhanced effect for modulating the synaptic plasticity and rhythmic oscillations in hippocampus.
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Bender PA, Chakraborty S, Durham RJ, Berka V, Carrillo E, Jayaraman V. Bi-directional allosteric pathway in NMDA receptor activation and modulation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.16.589813. [PMID: 38659769 PMCID: PMC11042370 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.16.589813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are ionotropic glutamate receptors involved in learning and memory. NMDA receptors primarily comprise two GluN1 and two GluN2 subunits. The GluN2 subunit dictates biophysical receptor properties, including the extent of receptor activation and desensitization. GluN2A- and GluN2D-containing receptors represent two functional extremes. To uncover the conformational basis of their functional divergence, we utilized single-molecule fluorescence resonance energy transfer to probe the extracellular domains of these receptor subtypes under resting and ligand-bound conditions. We find that the conformational profile of the GluN2 amino-terminal domain correlates with the disparate functions of GluN2A- and GluN2D-containing receptors. Changes at the pre-transmembrane segments inversely correlate with those observed at the amino-terminal domain, confirming direct allosteric communication between these domains. Additionally, binding of a positive allosteric modulator at the transmembrane domain shifts the conformational profile of the amino-terminal domain towards the active state, revealing a bidirectional allosteric pathway between extracellular and transmembrane domains.
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Suzuki N, Oota-Ishigaki A, Kaizuka T, Itoh M, Yamazaki M, Natsume R, Abe M, Sakimura K, Mishina M, Hayashi T. Limb-Clasping Response in NMDA Receptor Palmitoylation-Deficient Mice. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04166-9. [PMID: 38592586 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04166-9] [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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Proper regulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate-type glutamate receptor (NMDA receptor) expression is responsible for excitatory synaptic functions in the mammalian brain. NMDA receptor dysfunction can cause various neuropsychiatric disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Posttranslational protein S-palmitoylation, the covalent attachment of palmitic acid to intracellular cysteine residues via thioester bonds, occurs in the carboxyl terminus of GluN2B, which is the major regulatory NMDA receptor subunit. Mutations of three palmitoylatable cysteine residues in the membrane-proximal cluster of GluN2B to non-palmitoylatable serine (3CS) lead to the dephosphorylation of GluN2B Tyr1472 in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex, inducing a reduction in the surface expression of GluN2B-containig NMDA receptors. Furthermore, adult GluN2B 3CS homozygous mice demonstrated a definite clasping response without abnormalities in the gross brain structure, other neurological reflexes, or expression levels of synaptic proteins in the cerebrum. This behavioral disorder, observed in the GluN2B 3CS knock-in mice, indicated that complex higher brain functions are coordinated through the palmitoylation-dependent regulation of NMDA receptors in excitatory synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nami Suzuki
- Biomedical Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Central 6 (6-10), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8566, Japan
| | - Akiko Oota-Ishigaki
- Biomedical Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Central 6 (6-10), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8566, Japan
| | - Toshie Kaizuka
- National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), National Institute of Neuroscience, Kodaira, Tokyo, 187-8502, Japan
| | - Masayuki Itoh
- National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), National Institute of Neuroscience, Kodaira, Tokyo, 187-8502, Japan
| | - Maya Yamazaki
- Department of Cellular Neurobiology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, 951-8585, Japan
| | - Rie Natsume
- Department of Cellular Neurobiology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, 951-8585, Japan
- Department of Animal Model Development, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, 951-8585, Japan
| | - Manabu Abe
- Department of Cellular Neurobiology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, 951-8585, Japan
- Department of Animal Model Development, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, 951-8585, Japan
| | - Kenji Sakimura
- Department of Cellular Neurobiology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, 951-8585, Japan
- Department of Animal Model Development, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, 951-8585, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Mishina
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology and Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
- Brain Science Laboratory, The Research Organization of Science and Technology, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, 525-8577, Japan
| | - Takashi Hayashi
- Biomedical Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Central 6 (6-10), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8566, Japan.
- National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP), National Institute of Neuroscience, Kodaira, Tokyo, 187-8502, Japan.
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology and Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
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6
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Carles A, Freyssin A, Perin-Dureau F, Rubinstenn G, Maurice T. Targeting N-Methyl-d-Aspartate Receptors in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3733. [PMID: 38612544 PMCID: PMC11011887 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073733] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are the main class of ionotropic receptors for the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate. They play a crucial role in the permeability of Ca2+ ions and excitatory neurotransmission in the brain. Being heteromeric receptors, they are composed of several subunits, including two obligatory GluN1 subunits (eight splice variants) and regulatory GluN2 (GluN2A~D) or GluN3 (GluN3A~B) subunits. Widely distributed in the brain, they regulate other neurotransmission systems and are therefore involved in essential functions such as synaptic transmission, learning and memory, plasticity, and excitotoxicity. The present review will detail the structure, composition, and localization of NMDARs, their role and regulation at the glutamatergic synapse, and their impact on cognitive processes and in neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's, Huntington's, and Parkinson's disease). The pharmacology of different NMDAR antagonists and their therapeutic potentialities will be presented. In particular, a focus will be given on fluoroethylnormemantine (FENM), an investigational drug with very promising development as a neuroprotective agent in Alzheimer's disease, in complement to its reported efficacy as a tomography radiotracer for NMDARs and an anxiolytic drug in post-traumatic stress disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Carles
- MMDN, University of Montpellier, EPHE, INSERM, Montpellier, France; (A.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Aline Freyssin
- MMDN, University of Montpellier, EPHE, INSERM, Montpellier, France; (A.C.); (A.F.)
- ReST Therapeutics, 34095 Montpellier, France; (F.P.-D.); (G.R.)
| | | | | | - Tangui Maurice
- MMDN, University of Montpellier, EPHE, INSERM, Montpellier, France; (A.C.); (A.F.)
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7
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Srikanth KD, Elahi H, Chander P, Washburn HR, Hassler S, Mwirigi JM, Kume M, Loucks J, Arjarapu R, Hodge R, Shiers SI, Sankaranarayanan I, Erdjument-Bromage H, Neubert TA, Campbell ZT, Paik R, Price TJ, Dalva MB. VLK drives extracellular phosphorylation of EphB2 to govern the EphB2-NMDAR interaction and injury-induced pain. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.18.585314. [PMID: 38562765 PMCID: PMC10983893 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.18.585314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Phosphorylation of hundreds of protein extracellular domains is mediated by two kinase families, yet the significance of these kinases is underexplored. Here, we find that the presynaptic release of the tyrosine directed-ectokinase, Vertebrate Lonesome Kinase (VLK/Pkdcc), is necessary and sufficient for the direct extracellular interaction between EphB2 and GluN1 at synapses, for phosphorylation of the ectodomain of EphB2, and for injury-induced pain. Pkdcc is an essential gene in the nervous system, and VLK is found in synaptic vesicles, and is released from neurons in a SNARE-dependent fashion. VLK is expressed by nociceptive sensory neurons where presynaptic sensory neuron-specific knockout renders mice impervious to post-surgical pain, without changing proprioception. VLK defines an extracellular mechanism that regulates protein-protein interaction and non-opioid-dependent pain in response to injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kolluru D. Srikanth
- Tulane Brain Institute, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University; New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
- Jefferson Synaptic Biology Center, Department of Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107
| | - Hajira Elahi
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
- Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Praveen Chander
- Tulane Brain Institute, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University; New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
- Jefferson Synaptic Biology Center, Department of Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107
| | - Halley R. Washburn
- Jefferson Synaptic Biology Center, Department of Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University; Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Shayne Hassler
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
- College of Medicine, University of Houston; Houston, TX 77004, USA
| | - Juliet M. Mwirigi
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
- Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Moeno Kume
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
- Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Jessica Loucks
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Rohita Arjarapu
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Rachel Hodge
- Jefferson Synaptic Biology Center, Department of Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107
| | - Stephanie I. Shiers
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
- Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Ishwarya Sankaranarayanan
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
- Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Hediye Erdjument-Bromage
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology and Neuroscience Institute, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Thomas A. Neubert
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology and Neuroscience Institute, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Zachary T. Campbell
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison; Madison, WI 53792, USA
| | - Raehum Paik
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison; Madison, WI 53792, USA
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio; San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Theodore J. Price
- Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
- Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Matthew B. Dalva
- Tulane Brain Institute, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University; New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
- Jefferson Synaptic Biology Center, Department of Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107
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Soares C, Da Ros LU, Machado LS, Rocha A, Lazzarotto G, Carello-Collar G, De Bastiani MA, Ferrari-Souza JP, Lussier FZ, Souza DO, Rosa-Neto P, Pascoal TA, Bellaver B, Zimmer ER. The glutamatergic system in Alzheimer's disease: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02473-0. [PMID: 38366114 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02473-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Glutamatergic neurotransmission system dysregulation may play an important role in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, reported results on glutamatergic components across brain regions are contradictory. Here, we conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis to examine whether there are consistent glutamatergic abnormalities in the human AD brain. We searched PubMed and Web of Science (database origin-October 2023) reports evaluating glutamate, glutamine, glutaminase, glutamine synthetase, glutamate reuptake, aspartate, excitatory amino acid transporters, vesicular glutamate transporters, glycine, D-serine, metabotropic and ionotropic glutamate receptors in the AD human brain (PROSPERO #CDRD42022299518). The studies were synthesized by outcome and brain region. We included cortical regions, the whole brain (cortical and subcortical regions combined), the entorhinal cortex and the hippocampus. Pooled effect sizes were determined with standardized mean differences (SMD), random effects adjusted by false discovery rate, and heterogeneity was examined by I2 statistics. The search retrieved 6 936 articles, 63 meeting the inclusion criteria (N = 709CN/786AD; mean age 75/79). We showed that the brain of AD individuals presents decreased glutamate (SMD = -0.82; I2 = 74.54%; P < 0.001) and aspartate levels (SMD = -0.64; I2 = 89.71%; P = 0.006), and reuptake (SMD = -0.75; I2 = 83.04%; P < 0.001. We also found reduced α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPAR)-GluA2/3 levels (SMD = -0.63; I2 = 95.55%; P = 0.046), hypofunctional N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) (SMD = -0.60; I2 = 91.47%; P < 0.001) and selective reduction of NMDAR-GluN2B subunit levels (SMD = -1.07; I2 = 41.81%; P < 0.001). Regional differences include lower glutamate levels in cortical areas and aspartate levels in cortical areas and in the hippocampus, reduced glutamate reuptake, reduced AMPAR-GluA2/3 in the entorhinal cortex, hypofunction of NMDAR in cortical areas, and a decrease in NMDAR-GluN2B subunit levels in the entorhinal cortex and hippocampus. Other parameters studied were not altered. Our findings show depletion of the glutamatergic system and emphasize the importance of understanding glutamate-mediated neurotoxicity in AD. This study has implications for the development of therapies and biomarkers in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Soares
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Lucas Uglione Da Ros
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Luiza Santos Machado
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Andreia Rocha
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Lazzarotto
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Giovanna Carello-Collar
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Marco A De Bastiani
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Pharmacology and Therapeutics, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - João Pedro Ferrari-Souza
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Firoza Z Lussier
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Diogo O Souza
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Department of Biochemistry, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Pedro Rosa-Neto
- Translational Neuroimaging Laboratory, The McGill University Research Centre for Studies in Aging, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Douglas Research Institute, Le Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux de l'Ouest-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Tharick A Pascoal
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Bruna Bellaver
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Eduardo R Zimmer
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Pharmacology and Therapeutics, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
- Department of Biochemistry, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Brain Institute of Rio Grande do Sul - Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
- Department of Pharmacology, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
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9
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Liu W, Li Y, Zhao T, Gong M, Wang X, Zhang Y, Xu L, Li W, Li Y, Jia J. The role of N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptors in Alzheimer's disease: From pathophysiology to therapeutic approaches. Prog Neurobiol 2023; 231:102534. [PMID: 37783430 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2023.102534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
N-Methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptors (NMDARs) are involved in multiple physiopathological processes, including synaptic plasticity, neuronal network activities, excitotoxic events, and cognitive impairment. Abnormalities in NMDARs can initiate a cascade of pathological events, notably in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and even other neuropsychiatric disorders. The subunit composition of NMDARs is plastic, giving rise to a diverse array of receptor subtypes. While they are primarily found in neurons, NMDAR complexes, comprising both traditional and atypical subunits, are also present in non-neuronal cells, influencing the functions of various peripheral tissues. Furthermore, protein-protein interactions within NMDAR complexes has been linked with Aβ accumulation, tau phosphorylation, neuroinflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction, all of which potentially served as an obligatory relay of cognitive impairment. Nonetheless, the precise mechanistic link remains to be fully elucidated. In this review, we provided an in-depth analysis of the structure and function of NMDAR, investigated their interactions with various pathogenic proteins, discussed the current landscape of NMDAR-based therapeutics, and highlighted the remaining challenges during drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenying Liu
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China
| | - Yan Li
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China
| | - Tan Zhao
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China
| | - Min Gong
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China
| | - Xuechu Wang
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China
| | - Lingzhi Xu
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, PR China; Clinical Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Memory Impairment, Capital Medical University, PR China; Center of Alzheimer's Disease, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100053, PR China
| | - Wenwen Li
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, PR China; Clinical Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Memory Impairment, Capital Medical University, PR China; Center of Alzheimer's Disease, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100053, PR China
| | - Yan Li
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, PR China; Clinical Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Memory Impairment, Capital Medical University, PR China; Center of Alzheimer's Disease, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100053, PR China
| | - Jianping Jia
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, PR China; Clinical Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Memory Impairment, Capital Medical University, PR China; Center of Alzheimer's Disease, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100053, PR China.
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Mony L, Paoletti P. Mechanisms of NMDA receptor regulation. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2023; 83:102815. [PMID: 37988826 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2023.102815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are glutamate-gated ion channels widely expressed in the central nervous system that play key role in brain development and plasticity. On the downside, NMDAR dysfunction, be it hyperactivity or hypofunction, is harmful to neuronal function and has emerged as a common theme in various neuropsychiatric disorders including autism spectrum disorders, epilepsy, intellectual disability, and schizophrenia. Not surprisingly, NMDAR signaling is under a complex set of regulatory mechanisms that maintain NMDAR-mediated transmission in check. These include an unusual large number of endogenous agents that directly bind NMDARs and tune their activity in a subunit-dependent manner. Here, we review current knowledge on the regulation of NMDAR signaling. We focus on the regulation of the receptor by its microenvironment as well as by external (i.e. pharmacological) factors and their underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms. Recent developments showing how NMDAR dysregulation participate to disease mechanisms are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Mony
- Institut de Biologie de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure (IBENS), Ecole Normale Supérieure, Université PSL, CNRS, INSERM, F-75005 Paris, France.
| | - Pierre Paoletti
- Institut de Biologie de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure (IBENS), Ecole Normale Supérieure, Université PSL, CNRS, INSERM, F-75005 Paris, France.
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11
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Plitt MH, Kaganovsky K, Südhof TC, Giocomo LM. Hippocampal place code plasticity in CA1 requires postsynaptic membrane fusion. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.20.567978. [PMID: 38045362 PMCID: PMC10690209 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.20.567978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Rapid delivery of glutamate receptors to the postsynaptic membrane via vesicle fusion is a central component of synaptic plasticity. However, it is unknown how this process supports specific neural computations during behavior. To bridge this gap, we combined conditional genetic deletion of a component of the postsynaptic membrane fusion machinery, Syntaxin3 (Stx3), in hippocampal CA1 neurons of mice with population in vivo calcium imaging. This approach revealed that Stx3 is necessary for forming the neural dynamics that support novelty processing, spatial reward memory and offline memory consolidation. In contrast, CA1 Stx3 was dispensable for maintaining aspects of the neural code that exist presynaptic to CA1 such as representations of context and space. Thus, manipulating postsynaptic membrane fusion identified computations that specifically require synaptic restructuring via membrane trafficking in CA1 and distinguished them from neural representation that could be inherited from upstream brain regions or learned through other mechanisms.
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12
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Liang J, Liu B, Dong X, Wang Y, Cai W, Zhang N, Zhang H. Decoding the role of gut microbiota in Alzheimer's pathogenesis and envisioning future therapeutic avenues. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1242254. [PMID: 37790586 PMCID: PMC10544353 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1242254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) emerges as a perturbing neurodegenerative malady, with a profound comprehension of its underlying pathogenic mechanisms continuing to evade our intellectual grasp. Within the intricate tapestry of human health and affliction, the enteric microbial consortium, ensconced within the milieu of the human gastrointestinal tract, assumes a role of cardinal significance. Recent epochs have borne witness to investigations that posit marked divergences in the composition of the gut microbiota between individuals grappling with AD and those favored by robust health. The composite vicissitudes in the configuration of the enteric microbial assembly are posited to choreograph a participatory role in the inception and progression of AD, facilitated by the intricate conduit acknowledged as the gut-brain axis. Notwithstanding, the precise nature of this interlaced relationship remains enshrouded within the recesses of obscurity, poised for an exhaustive revelation. This review embarks upon the endeavor to focalize meticulously upon the mechanistic sway exerted by the enteric microbiota upon AD, plunging profoundly into the execution of interventions that govern the milieu of enteric microorganisms. In doing so, it bestows relevance upon the therapeutic stratagems that form the bedrock of AD's management, all whilst casting a prospective gaze into the horizon of medical advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyi Liang
- Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xiaohong Dong
- Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yueyang Wang
- Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Wenhui Cai
- Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Heilongjiang Jiamusi Central Hospital, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
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Harrison PJ, Bannerman DM. GRIN2A (NR2A): a gene contributing to glutamatergic involvement in schizophrenia. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:3568-3572. [PMID: 37736757 PMCID: PMC10730418 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02265-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Involvement of the glutamate system, particularly N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor hypofunction, has long been postulated to be part of the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. An important development is provided by recent data that strongly implicate GRIN2A, the gene encoding the NR2A (GluN2A) NMDA receptor subunit, in the aetiology of the disorder. Rare variants and common variants are both robustly associated with genetic risk for schizophrenia. Some of the rare variants are point mutations likely affecting channel function, but most are predicted to cause protein truncation and thence result, like the common variants, in reduced gene expression. We review the genomic evidence, and the findings from Grin2a mutant mice and other models which give clues as to the likely phenotypic impacts of GRIN2A genetic variation. We suggest that one consequence of NR2A dysfunction is impairment in a form of hippocampal synaptic plasticity, producing deficits in short-term habituation and thence elevated and dysregulated levels of attention, a phenotype of relevance to schizophrenia and its cognitive aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Harrison
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK.
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK.
| | - David M Bannerman
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX2 6GG, UK
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KASAI H. Unraveling the mysteries of dendritic spine dynamics: Five key principles shaping memory and cognition. PROCEEDINGS OF THE JAPAN ACADEMY. SERIES B, PHYSICAL AND BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2023; 99:254-305. [PMID: 37821392 PMCID: PMC10749395 DOI: 10.2183/pjab.99.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Recent research extends our understanding of brain processes beyond just action potentials and chemical transmissions within neural circuits, emphasizing the mechanical forces generated by excitatory synapses on dendritic spines to modulate presynaptic function. From in vivo and in vitro studies, we outline five central principles of synaptic mechanics in brain function: P1: Stability - Underpinning the integral relationship between the structure and function of the spine synapses. P2: Extrinsic dynamics - Highlighting synapse-selective structural plasticity which plays a crucial role in Hebbian associative learning, distinct from pathway-selective long-term potentiation (LTP) and depression (LTD). P3: Neuromodulation - Analyzing the role of G-protein-coupled receptors, particularly dopamine receptors, in time-sensitive modulation of associative learning frameworks such as Pavlovian classical conditioning and Thorndike's reinforcement learning (RL). P4: Instability - Addressing the intrinsic dynamics crucial to memory management during continual learning, spotlighting their role in "spine dysgenesis" associated with mental disorders. P5: Mechanics - Exploring how synaptic mechanics influence both sides of synapses to establish structural traces of short- and long-term memory, thereby aiding the integration of mental functions. We also delve into the historical background and foresee impending challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruo KASAI
- International Research Center for Neurointelligence (WPI-IRCN), UTIAS, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Laboratory of Structural Physiology, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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