1
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Peralta F, Vidal Escobedo AA, Hanotte JL, Avallone M, Björklund T, Reggiani PC, Pardo J. Preventive cognitive protection based on AAV9 overexpression of IGF1 in hippocampal astrocytes. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 200:106612. [PMID: 39032798 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106612] [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: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes play key roles in the brain. When astrocyte support fails, neurological disorders follow, resulting in disrupted synaptic communication, neuronal degeneration, and cell death. We posit that astrocytes overexpressing neurotrophic factors, such as Insulin Like Growth Factor 1 (IGF1), prevent the onset of neurodegeneration. We overexpressed IGF1 and the reporter TdTomato (TOM) in hippocampal astrocytes with bicistronic Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV) harboring the Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) promoter and afterwards induced neurodegeneration by the intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of streptozotocin (STZ), a rat model of behavioral impairment, neuroinflammation and shortening of hippocampal astrocytes. We achieved a thorough transgene expression along the hippocampus with a single viral injection. Although species typical behavior was impaired, memory deficit was prevented by IGF1. STZ prompted astrocyte shortening, albeit the length of these cells in animals injected with GFP and IGF1 vectors did not statistically differ from the other groups. In STZ control animals, hippocampal microglial reactive cells increased dramatically, but this was alleviated in IGF1 rats. We conclude that overexpression of IGF1 in astrocytes prevents neurodegeneration onset. Hence, individuals with early neurotrophic exhaustion would be vulnerable to age-related neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Facundo Peralta
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata "Profesor Doctor Rodolfo R. Brenner". Facultad de Ciencias Médicas. Universidad Nacional de La Plata. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana Abril Vidal Escobedo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata "Profesor Doctor Rodolfo R. Brenner". Facultad de Ciencias Médicas. Universidad Nacional de La Plata. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juliette López Hanotte
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata "Profesor Doctor Rodolfo R. Brenner". Facultad de Ciencias Médicas. Universidad Nacional de La Plata. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Martino Avallone
- Molecular Neuromodulation, Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Tomas Björklund
- Molecular Neuromodulation, Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Paula Cecilia Reggiani
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata "Profesor Doctor Rodolfo R. Brenner". Facultad de Ciencias Médicas. Universidad Nacional de La Plata. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Joaquín Pardo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata "Profesor Doctor Rodolfo R. Brenner". Facultad de Ciencias Médicas. Universidad Nacional de La Plata. Buenos Aires, Argentina; Molecular Neuromodulation, Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
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2
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Taylor JL, Martin-Aragon Baudel M, Nieves-Cintron M, Navedo MF. Vascular Function and Ion Channels in Alzheimer's Disease. Microcirculation 2024:e12881. [PMID: 39190776 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
This review paper explores the critical role of vascular ion channels in the regulation of cerebral artery function and examines the impact of Alzheimer's disease (AD) on these processes. Vascular ion channels are fundamental in controlling vascular tone, blood flow, and endothelial function in cerebral arteries. Dysfunction of these channels can lead to impaired cerebral autoregulation, contributing to cerebrovascular pathologies. AD, characterized by the accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, has been increasingly linked to vascular abnormalities, including altered vascular ion channel activity. Here, we briefly review the role of vascular ion channels in cerebral blood flow control and neurovascular coupling. We then examine the vascular defects in AD, the current understanding of how AD pathology affects vascular ion channel function, and how these changes may lead to compromised cerebral blood flow and neurodegenerative processes. Finally, we provide future perspectives and conclusions. Understanding this topic is important as ion channels may be potential therapeutic targets for improving cerebrovascular health and mitigating AD progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jade L Taylor
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | | | | | - Manuel F Navedo
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
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3
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Zarate SM, Kirabo A, Hinton AO, Santisteban MM. Neuroimmunology of Cardiovascular Disease. Curr Hypertens Rep 2024; 26:339-347. [PMID: 38613621 PMCID: PMC11199253 DOI: 10.1007/s11906-024-01301-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death and chronic disability worldwide. Yet, despite extensive intervention strategies the number of persons affected by CVD continues to rise. Thus, there is great interest in unveiling novel mechanisms that may lead to new treatments. Considering this dilemma, recent focus has turned to the neuroimmune mechanisms involved in CVD pathology leading to a deeper understanding of the brain's involvement in disease pathology. This review provides an overview of new and salient findings regarding the neuroimmune mechanisms that contribute to CVD. RECENT FINDINGS The brain contains neuroimmune niches comprised of glia in the parenchyma and immune cells at the brain's borders, and there is strong evidence that these neuroimmune niches are important in both health and disease. Mechanistic studies suggest that the activation of glia and immune cells in these niches modulates CVD progression in hypertension and heart failure and contributes to the inevitable end-organ damage to the brain. This review provides evidence supporting the role of neuroimmune niches in CVD progression. However, additional research is needed to understand the effects of prolonged neuroimmune activation on brain function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Zarate
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA
| | - Annet Kirabo
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, USA
- Vanderbilt Center for Immunobiology, Nashville, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute for Infection, Immunology, and Inflammation, Nashville, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Nashville, USA
| | - Antentor O Hinton
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, USA
| | - Monica M Santisteban
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA.
- Vanderbilt Institute for Infection, Immunology, and Inflammation, Nashville, USA.
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA.
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4
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Lénárt N, Cserép C, Császár E, Pósfai B, Dénes Á. Microglia-neuron-vascular interactions in ischemia. Glia 2024; 72:833-856. [PMID: 37964690 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral ischemia is a devastating condition that results in impaired blood flow in the brain leading to acute brain injury. As the most common form of stroke, occlusion of cerebral arteries leads to a characteristic sequence of pathophysiological changes in the brain tissue. The mechanisms involved, and comorbidities that determine outcome after an ischemic event appear to be highly heterogeneous. On their own, the processes leading to neuronal injury in the absence of sufficient blood supply to meet the metabolic demand of the cells are complex and manifest at different temporal and spatial scales. While the contribution of non-neuronal cells to stroke pathophysiology is increasingly recognized, recent data show that microglia, the main immune cells of the central nervous system parenchyma, play previously unrecognized roles in basic physiological processes beyond their inflammatory functions, which markedly change during ischemic conditions. In this review, we aim to discuss some of the known microglia-neuron-vascular interactions assumed to contribute to the acute and delayed pathologies after cerebral ischemia. Because the mechanisms of neuronal injury have been extensively discussed in several excellent previous reviews, here we focus on some recently explored pathways that may directly or indirectly shape neuronal injury through microglia-related actions. These discoveries suggest that modulating gliovascular processes in different forms of stroke and other neurological disorders might have presently unexplored therapeutic potential in combination with neuroprotective and flow restoration strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolett Lénárt
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Csaba Cserép
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Eszter Császár
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Balázs Pósfai
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ádám Dénes
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
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5
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Caulier-Cisterna R, Appelgren-Gonzáles JP, Oyarzún JE, Valenzuela F, Sitaram R, Eblen-Zajjur A, Uribe S. Comparison of LED- and LASER-based fNIRS technologies to record the human peri‑spinal cord neurovascular response. Med Eng Phys 2024; 127:104170. [PMID: 38692767 DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2024.104170] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Recently, functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) was applied to obtain, non-invasively, the human peri‑spinal Neuro-Vascular Response (NVR) under a non-noxious electrical stimulation of a peripheral nerve. This method allowed the measurements of changes in the concentration of oxyhemoglobin (O2Hb) and deoxyhemoglobin (HHb) from the peri‑spinal vascular network. However, there is a lack of clarity about the potential differences in perispinal NVR recorded by the different fNIRS technologies currently available. In this work, the two main noninvasive fNIRS technologies were compared, i.e., LED and LASER-based. The recording of the human peri‑spinal NVR induced by non-noxious electrical stimulation of a peripheral nerve was recorded simultaneously at C7 and T10 vertebral levels. The amplitude, rise time, and full width at half maximum duration of the perispinal NVRs were characterized in healthy volunteers and compared between both systems. The main difference was that the LED-based system shows about one order of magnitude higher values of amplitude than the LASER-based system. No statistical differences were found for rise time and for duration parameters (at thoracic level). The comparison of point-to-point wave patterns did not show significant differences between both systems. In conclusion, the peri‑spinal NRV response obtained by different fNIRS technologies was reproducible, and only the amplitude showed differences, probably due to the power of the system which should be considered when assessing the human peri‑spinal vascular network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl Caulier-Cisterna
- Department of Informatics and Computing, Faculty of Engineering, Universidad Tecnológica Metropolitana, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Juan-Pablo Appelgren-Gonzáles
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, the Radiology Department, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan-Esteban Oyarzún
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, the Radiology Department, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile; Millennium Institute for Intelligent Healthcare Engineering, iHEALTH, Santiago, Chile
| | - Felipe Valenzuela
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, the Radiology Department, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ranganatha Sitaram
- Diagnostic Imaging Department, Multimodal Functional Brain Imaging and Neurorehabilitation Hub, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Antonio Eblen-Zajjur
- Translational Neuroscience Laboratory, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Diego Portales, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sergio Uribe
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Australia.
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6
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Ruff CF, Juarez Anaya F, Dienel SJ, Rakymzhan A, Altamirano-Espinoza A, Couey JJ, Fukuda M, Watson AM, Su A, Fish KN, Rubio ME, Hooks BM, Ross SE, Vazquez AL. Long-range inhibitory neurons mediate cortical neurovascular coupling. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113970. [PMID: 38512868 PMCID: PMC11168451 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113970] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
To meet the high energy demands of brain function, cerebral blood flow (CBF) parallels changes in neuronal activity by a mechanism known as neurovascular coupling (NVC). However, which neurons play a role in mediating NVC is not well understood. Here, we identify in mice and humans a specific population of cortical GABAergic neurons that co-express neuronal nitric oxide synthase and tachykinin receptor 1 (Tacr1). Through whole-tissue clearing, we demonstrate that Tacr1 neurons extend local and long-range projections across functionally connected cortical areas. We show that whisker stimulation elicited Tacr1 neuron activity in the barrel cortex through feedforward excitatory pathways. Additionally, through optogenetic experiments, we demonstrate that Tacr1 neurons are instrumental in mediating CBF through the relaxation of mural cells in a similar fashion to whisker stimulation. Finally, by electron microscopy, we observe that Tacr1 processes contact astrocytic endfeet. These findings suggest that Tacr1 neurons integrate cortical activity to mediate NVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine F Ruff
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Samuel J Dienel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Adiya Rakymzhan
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Jonathan J Couey
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mitsuhiro Fukuda
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Alan M Watson
- Center for Biologic Imaging, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Aihua Su
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kenneth N Fish
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Maria E Rubio
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Bryan M Hooks
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sarah E Ross
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Alberto L Vazquez
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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7
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Lin CR, Toychiev A, Ablordeppey RK, Srinivas M, Benavente-Perez A. Sustained Retinal Defocus Increases the Effect of Induced Myopia on the Retinal Astrocyte Template. Cells 2024; 13:595. [PMID: 38607034 PMCID: PMC11011523 DOI: 10.3390/cells13070595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this article is to describe sustained myopic eye growth's effect on astrocyte cellular distribution and its association with inner retinal layer thicknesses. Astrocyte density and distribution, retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), ganglion cell layer, and inner plexiform layer (IPL) thicknesses were assessed using immunochemistry and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography on seventeen common marmoset retinas (Callithrix jacchus): six induced with myopia from 2 to 6 months of age (6-month-old myopes), three induced with myopia from 2 to 12 months of age (12-month-old myopes), five age-matched 6-month-old controls, and three age-matched 12-month-old controls. Untreated marmoset eyes grew normally, and both RNFL and IPL thicknesses did not change with age, with astrocyte numbers correlating to RNFL and IPL thicknesses in both control age groups. Myopic marmosets did not follow this trend and, instead, exhibited decreased astrocyte density, increased GFAP+ spatial coverage, and thinner RNFL and IPL, all of which worsened over time. Myopic changes in astrocyte density, GFAP+ spatial coverage and inner retinal layer thicknesses suggest astrocyte template reorganization during myopia development and progression which increased over time. Whether or not these changes are constructive or destructive to the retina still remains to be assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Alexandra Benavente-Perez
- Department of Biological Sciences, State University of New York College of Optometry, New York, NY 10036, USA; (C.R.L.); (A.T.); (R.K.A.); (M.S.)
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8
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Montalant A, Kiehn O, Perrier JF. Dopamine and noradrenaline activate spinal astrocyte endfeet via D1-like receptors. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:1278-1295. [PMID: 38052454 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16205] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes, the most abundant glial cells in the central nervous system, respond to a wide variety of neurotransmitters binding to metabotropic receptors. Here, we investigated the intracellular calcium responses of spinal cord astrocytes to dopamine and noradrenaline, two catecholamines released by specific descending pathways. In a slice preparation from the spinal cord of neonatal mice, puff application of dopamine resulted in intracellular calcium responses that remained in the endfeet. Noradrenaline induced stronger responses that also started in the endfeet but spread to neighbouring compartments. The intracellular calcium responses were unaffected by blocking neuronal activity or inhibiting various neurotransmitter receptors, suggesting a direct effect of dopamine and noradrenaline on astrocytes. The intracellular calcium responses induced by noradrenaline and dopamine were inhibited by the D1 receptor antagonist SCH 23390. We assessed the functional consequences of these astrocytic responses by examining changes in arteriole diameter. Puff application of dopamine or noradrenaline resulted in vasoconstriction of spinal arterioles. However, blocking D1 receptors or manipulating astrocytic intracellular calcium levels did not abolish the vasoconstrictions, indicating that the observed intracellular calcium responses in astrocyte endfeet were not responsible for the vascular changes. Our findings demonstrate a compartmentalized response of spinal cord astrocytes to catecholamines and expand our understanding of astrocyte-neurotransmitter interactions and their potential roles in the physiology of the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexia Montalant
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ole Kiehn
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jean-François Perrier
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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9
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Chen HC, Cao JX, Zhang YS, Ma YZ, Zhang L, Su XM, Gao LP, Jing YH. High salt diet exacerbates cognitive deficits and neurovascular abnormalities in APP/PS1 mice and induces AD-like changes in wild-type mice. J Nutr Biochem 2024; 125:109570. [PMID: 38218348 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2024.109570] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
High salt diet (HSD) is a risk factor of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Although clinical data do not clearly indicate the relationship between HSD and the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD), animal experiments have shown that HSD can cause hyperphosphorylation of tau protein and cognition impairment. However, whether HSD can accelerate the progression of AD by damaging the function of neurovascular unit (NVU) in the brain is unclear. Here, we fed APP/PS1 mice (an AD model) or wild-type mice with HSD and found that the chronic HSD feeding increased the activity of enzymes related to tau phosphorylation, which led to tau hyperphosphorylation in the brain. HSD also aggravated the deposition of Aβ42 in hippocampus and cortex in the APP/PS1 mice but not in the wild-type mice. Simultaneously, HSD caused the microglia proliferation, low expression of Aqp-4, and high expression of CD31 in the wild-type mice, which were accompanied with the loss of pericytes (PCs) and increase in blood brain barrier (BBB) permeability. As a result, wild-type mice fed with HSD performed poorly in Morris Water Maze and object recognition test. In the APP/PS1 mice, HSD feeding for 8 months worsen the cognition and accompanied the loss of PCs, the activation of glia, the increase in BBB permeability, and the acceleration of calcification in the brain. Our data suggested that HSD feeding induced the AD-like pathology in wild-type mice and aggravated the development of AD-like pathology in APP/PS1 mice, which implicated the tau hyperphosphorylation and NVU dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Chao Chen
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Xin Cao
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Shu Zhang
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue-Zhang Ma
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Mei Su
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Ping Gao
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Hong Jing
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu province, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China.
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10
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Cai Y, Zhang Y, Leng S, Ma Y, Jiang Q, Wen Q, Ju S, Hu J. The relationship between inflammation, impaired glymphatic system, and neurodegenerative disorders: A vicious cycle. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 192:106426. [PMID: 38331353 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106426] [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: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The term "glymphatic" emerged roughly a decade ago, marking a pivotal point in neuroscience research. The glymphatic system, a glial-dependent perivascular network distributed throughout the brain, has since become a focal point of investigation. There is increasing evidence suggesting that impairment of the glymphatic system appears to be a common feature of neurodegenerative disorders, and this impairment exacerbates as disease progression. Nevertheless, the common factors contributing to glymphatic system dysfunction across most neurodegenerative disorders remain unclear. Inflammation, however, is suspected to play a pivotal role. Dysfunction of the glymphatic system can lead to a significant accumulation of protein and waste products, which can trigger inflammation. The interaction between the glymphatic system and inflammation appears to be cyclical and potentially synergistic. Yet, current research is limited, and there is a lack of comprehensive models explaining this association. In this perspective review, we propose a novel model suggesting that inflammation, impaired glymphatic function, and neurodegenerative disorders interconnected in a vicious cycle. By presenting experimental evidence from the existing literature, we aim to demonstrate that: (1) inflammation aggravates glymphatic system dysfunction, (2) the impaired glymphatic system exacerbated neurodegenerative disorders progression, (3) neurodegenerative disorders progression promotes inflammation. Finally, the implication of proposed model is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Cai
- Nurturing Center of Jiangsu Province for State Laboratory of AI Imaging & Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yangqiqi Zhang
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shuo Leng
- Center of Interventional Radiology and Vascular Surgery, Department of Radiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yuanyuan Ma
- Nurturing Center of Jiangsu Province for State Laboratory of AI Imaging & Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Quan Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Health System, 2799 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Qiuting Wen
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, 355 W.16th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202-5188, USA
| | - Shenghong Ju
- Nurturing Center of Jiangsu Province for State Laboratory of AI Imaging & Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Jiani Hu
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
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11
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Du C, Park K, Hua Y, Liu Y, Volkow ND, Pan Y. Astrocytes modulate cerebral blood flow and neuronal response to cocaine in prefrontal cortex. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:820-834. [PMID: 38238549 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02373-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Cocaine affects both cerebral blood vessels and neuronal activity in brain. Cocaine can also disrupt astrocytes, which modulate neurovascular coupling-a process that regulates cerebral hemodynamics in response to neuronal activation. However, separating neuronal and astrocytic effects from cocaine's direct vasoactive effects has been challenging, partially due to limitations of neuroimaging techniques able to differentiate vascular from neuronal and glial effects at high temporal and spatial resolutions. Here, we used a newly-developed multi-channel fluorescence and optical coherence Doppler microscope (fl-ODM) that allows for simultaneous measurements of neuronal and astrocytic activities (reflected by the intracellular calcium changes in neurons Ca2+N and astrocytes Ca2+A, respectively) alongside their vascular interactions in vivo to address this challenge. Using green and red genetically-encoded Ca2+ indicators differentially expressed in astrocytes and neurons, fl-ODM enabled concomitant imaging of large-scale astrocytic and neuronal Ca2+ fluorescence and 3D cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFv) in vascular networks in the mouse cortex. We assessed cocaine's effects in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and found that the CBFv changes triggered by cocaine were temporally correlated with astrocytic Ca2+A activity. Chemogenetic inhibition of astrocytes during the baseline state resulted in blood vessel dilation and CBFv increases but did not affect neuronal activity, suggesting modulation of spontaneous blood vessel's vascular tone by astrocytes. Chemogenetic inhibition of astrocytes during a cocaine challenge prevented its vasoconstricting effects alongside the CBFv decreases, but it also attenuated the neuronal Ca2+N increases triggered by cocaine. These results document a role of astrocytes both in regulating vascular tone and consequently blood flow, at baseline and for modulating the vasoconstricting and neuronal activation responses to cocaine in the PFC. Strategies to inhibit astrocytic activity could offer promise for ameliorating vascular and neuronal toxicity from cocaine misuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congwu Du
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Kichon Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Yueming Hua
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Yanzuo Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Nora D Volkow
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20857, USA
| | - Yingtian Pan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA.
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12
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Bettinetti-Luque M, Trujillo-Estrada L, Garcia-Fuentes E, Andreo-Lopez J, Sanchez-Varo R, Garrido-Sánchez L, Gómez-Mediavilla Á, López MG, Garcia-Caballero M, Gutierrez A, Baglietto-Vargas D. Adipose tissue as a therapeutic target for vascular damage in Alzheimer's disease. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:840-878. [PMID: 37706346 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16243] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Adipose tissue has recently been recognized as an important endocrine organ that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and in the immune response in many metabolic tissues. With this regard, emerging evidence indicates that an important crosstalk exists between the adipose tissue and the brain. However, the contribution of adipose tissue to the development of age-related diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, remains poorly defined. New studies suggest that the adipose tissue modulates brain function through a range of endogenous biologically active factors known as adipokines, which can cross the blood-brain barrier to reach the target areas in the brain or to regulate the function of the blood-brain barrier. In this review, we discuss the effects of several adipokines on the physiology of the blood-brain barrier, their contribution to the development of Alzheimer's disease and their therapeutic potential. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue From Alzheimer's Disease to Vascular Dementia: Different Roads Leading to Cognitive Decline. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.6/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Bettinetti-Luque
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Genética y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)-Plataforma BIONAND, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Laura Trujillo-Estrada
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Genética y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)-Plataforma BIONAND, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo Garcia-Fuentes
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)-Plataforma BIONAND, Málaga, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juana Andreo-Lopez
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Genética y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)-Plataforma BIONAND, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Raquel Sanchez-Varo
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Genética y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)-Plataforma BIONAND, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Fisiología Humana, Histología Humana, Anatomía Patológica y Educación Física y Deportiva, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Lourdes Garrido-Sánchez
- CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Endocrinología y Nutrición, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)-Plataforma BIONAND, Málaga, Spain
| | - Ángela Gómez-Mediavilla
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina. Instituto Teófilo Hernando para la I+D de Fármacos, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuela G López
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina. Instituto Teófilo Hernando para la I+D de Fármacos, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias (IIS-IP), Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Madrid, Spain
| | - Melissa Garcia-Caballero
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Bioquímica, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)-Plataforma BIONAND, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Antonia Gutierrez
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Genética y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)-Plataforma BIONAND, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Baglietto-Vargas
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Genética y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)-Plataforma BIONAND, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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Shen Z, Zhang S, Yu W, Yue M, Hong C. Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography: Revolutionizing Clinical Diagnostics and Treatment in Central Nervous System Disease. Aging Dis 2024:AD.2024.0112. [PMID: 38300645 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2024.0112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), as a new generation of non-invasive and efficient fundus imaging technology, can provide non-invasive assessment of vascular lesions in the retina and choroid. In terms of anatomy and development, the retina is referred to as an extension of the central nervous system (CNS). CNS diseases are closely related to changes in fundus structure and blood vessels, and direct visualization of fundus structure and blood vessels provides an effective "window" for CNS research. This has important practical significance for identifying the characteristic changes of various CNS diseases on OCTA in the future, and plays a key role in promoting early screening, diagnosis, and monitoring of disease progression in CNS diseases. This article reviews relevant fundus studies by comparing and summarizing the unique advantages and existing limitations of OCTA in various CNS disease patients, in order to demonstrate the clinical significance of OCTA in the diagnosis and treatment of CNS diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeqi Shen
- Postgraduate training base Alliance of Wenzhou Medical University (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Sheng Zhang
- Center for Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Neurology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Weitao Yu
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mengmeng Yue
- Postgraduate training base Alliance of Wenzhou Medical University (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chaoyang Hong
- Center for Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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14
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Stanca S, Rossetti M, Bokulic Panichi L, Bongioanni P. The Cellular Dysfunction of the Brain-Blood Barrier from Endothelial Cells to Astrocytes: The Pathway towards Neurotransmitter Impairment in Schizophrenia. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1250. [PMID: 38279249 PMCID: PMC10816922 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ) is an articulated psychiatric syndrome characterized by a combination of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Our intention is to present a pathogenetic model combining SCZ alterations and the main cellular actors of the blood-brain barrier (BBB): endothelial cells (ECs), pericytes, and astrocytes. The homeostasis of the BBB is preserved by the neurovascular unit which is constituted by ECs, astrocytes and microglia, neurons, and the extracellular matrix. The role of the BBB is strictly linked to its ability to preserve the biochemical integrity of brain parenchyma integrity. In SCZ, there is an increased BBB permeability, demonstrated by elevated levels of albumin and immunoglobulins in the cerebrospinal fluid, and this is the result of an intrinsic endothelial impairment. Increased BBB permeability would lead to enhanced concentrations of neurotoxic and neuroactive molecules in the brain. The pathogenetic involvement of astrocytes in SCZ reverberates its consequences on BBB, together with the impact on its permeability and selectivity represented by the EC and pericyte damage occurring in the psychotic picture. Understanding the strict interaction between ECs and astrocytes, and its consequent impact on cognition, is diriment not only for comprehension of neurotransmitter dyshomeostasis in SCZ, but also for focusing on other potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Stanca
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Via Savi 10, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- NeuroCare Onlus, 56100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Martina Rossetti
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Via Savi 10, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- NeuroCare Onlus, 56100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Leona Bokulic Panichi
- NeuroCare Onlus, 56100 Pisa, Italy
- Neuroscience Department, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Paolo Bongioanni
- NeuroCare Onlus, 56100 Pisa, Italy
- Neuroscience Department, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56100 Pisa, Italy
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Zhou M, Su P, Liang J, Xiong T. Research progress on the roles of neurovascular unit in stroke-induced immunosuppression. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2023; 52:662-672. [PMID: 37899404 PMCID: PMC10630064 DOI: 10.3724/zdxbyxb-2023-0144] [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: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
A complex pathophysiological mechanism is involved in brain injury following cerebral infarction. The neurovascular unit (NVU) is a complex multi-cellular structure consisting of neurons, endothelial cells, pericyte, astrocyte, microglia and extracellular matrix, etc. The dyshomeostasis of NVU directly participates in the regulation of inflammatory immune process. The components of NVU promote inflammatory overreaction and synergize with the overactivation of autonomic nervous system to initiate stroke-induced immunodepression (SIID). SIID can alleviate the damage caused by inflammation, however, it also makes stroke patients more susceptible to infection, leading to systemic damage. This article reviews the mechanism of SIID and the roles of NVU in SIID, to provide a perspective for reperfusion, prognosis and immunomodulatory therapy of cerebral infarction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqin Zhou
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Peng Su
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu Province, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of Senile Diseases, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jingyan Liang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu Province, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of Senile Diseases, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Tianqing Xiong
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Yangzhou University Medical College, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu Province, China.
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of Senile Diseases, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Panchenko PE, Hippauf L, Konsman JP, Badaut J. Do astrocytes act as immune cells after pediatric TBI? Neurobiol Dis 2023; 185:106231. [PMID: 37468048 PMCID: PMC10530000 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are in contact with the vasculature, neurons, oligodendrocytes and microglia, forming a local network with various functions critical for brain homeostasis. One of the primary responders to brain injury are astrocytes as they detect neuronal and vascular damage, change their phenotype with morphological, proteomic and transcriptomic transformations for an adaptive response. The role of astrocytic responses in brain dysfunction is not fully elucidated in adult, and even less described in the developing brain. Children are vulnerable to traumatic brain injury (TBI), which represents a leading cause of death and disability in the pediatric population. Pediatric brain trauma, even with mild severity, can lead to long-term health complications, such as cognitive impairments, emotional disorders and social dysfunction later in life. To date, the underlying pathophysiology is still not fully understood. In this review, we focus on the astrocytic response in pediatric TBI and propose a potential immune role of the astrocyte in response to trauma. We discuss the contribution of astrocytes in the local inflammatory cascades and secretion of various immunomodulatory factors involved in the recruitment of local microglial cells and peripheral immune cells through cerebral blood vessels. Taken together, we propose that early changes in the astrocytic phenotype can alter normal development of the brain, with long-term consequences on neurological outcomes, as described in preclinical models and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lea Hippauf
- CNRS UMR 5536 RMSB-University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Jerome Badaut
- CNRS UMR 5536 RMSB-University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France; Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
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Iadecola C, Smith EE, Anrather J, Gu C, Mishra A, Misra S, Perez-Pinzon MA, Shih AY, Sorond FA, van Veluw SJ, Wellington CL. The Neurovasculome: Key Roles in Brain Health and Cognitive Impairment: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. Stroke 2023; 54:e251-e271. [PMID: 37009740 PMCID: PMC10228567 DOI: 10.1161/str.0000000000000431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preservation of brain health has emerged as a leading public health priority for the aging world population. Advances in neurovascular biology have revealed an intricate relationship among brain cells, meninges, and the hematic and lymphatic vasculature (the neurovasculome) that is highly relevant to the maintenance of cognitive function. In this scientific statement, a multidisciplinary team of experts examines these advances, assesses their relevance to brain health and disease, identifies knowledge gaps, and provides future directions. METHODS Authors with relevant expertise were selected in accordance with the American Heart Association conflict-of-interest management policy. They were assigned topics pertaining to their areas of expertise, reviewed the literature, and summarized the available data. RESULTS The neurovasculome, composed of extracranial, intracranial, and meningeal vessels, as well as lymphatics and associated cells, subserves critical homeostatic functions vital for brain health. These include delivering O2 and nutrients through blood flow and regulating immune trafficking, as well as clearing pathogenic proteins through perivascular spaces and dural lymphatics. Single-cell omics technologies have unveiled an unprecedented molecular heterogeneity in the cellular components of the neurovasculome and have identified novel reciprocal interactions with brain cells. The evidence suggests a previously unappreciated diversity of the pathogenic mechanisms by which disruption of the neurovasculome contributes to cognitive dysfunction in neurovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, providing new opportunities for the prevention, recognition, and treatment of these conditions. CONCLUSIONS These advances shed new light on the symbiotic relationship between the brain and its vessels and promise to provide new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for brain disorders associated with cognitive dysfunction.
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Pan Y, Du C, Park K, Hua Y, Volkow N. Astrocytes mediate cerebral blood flow and neuronal response to cocaine in prefrontal cortex. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2626090. [PMID: 36993330 PMCID: PMC10055529 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2626090/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Cocaine affects both cerebral blood vessels and neuronal activity in brain. Cocaine can also disrupt astrocytes, which are involved in neurovascular coupling process that modulates cerebral hemodynamics in response to neuronal activity. However, separating neuronal and astrocytic effects from cocaine's direct vasoactive effects is challenging, partially due to limitations of neuroimaging techniques to differentiate vascular from neuronal and glial effects at high temporal and spatial resolutions. Here, we used a newly-developed multi-channel fluorescence and optical coherence Doppler microscope (fl-ODM) that allows for simultaneous measurements of neuronal and astrocytic activities alongside their vascular interactions in vivo to address this challenge. Using green and red genetically-encoded Ca2+ indicators differentially expressed in astrocytes and neurons, fl-ODM enabled concomitant imaging of large-scale astrocytic and neuronal Ca2+ fluorescence and 3D cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFv) in vascular networks in the mouse cortex. We assessed cocaine's effects in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and found that the CBFv changes triggered by cocaine were temporally correlated with astrocytic Ca2 + A activity. Chemogenetic inhibition of astrocytes during the baseline state resulted in blood vessel dilation and CBFv increases but did not affect neuronal activity, suggesting modulation of spontaneous blood vessel's vascular tone by astrocytes. Chemogenetic inhibition of astrocytes during cocaine challenge prevented its vasoconstricting effects alongside the CBFv decreases but also attenuated the neuronal Ca2+ N increases triggered by cocaine. These results document a role of astrocytes both in regulating vascular tone of blood flow at baseline and for mediating the vasoconstricting responses to cocaine as well as its neuronal activation in the PFC. Strategies to inhibit astrocytic activity could offer promise for ameliorating vascular and neuronal toxicity from cocaine misuse.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Nora Volkow
- National Institute on Drug Abuse National Institutes of Health
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Sompol P, Gollihue JL, Weiss BE, Lin RL, Case SL, Kraner SD, Weekman EM, Gant JC, Rogers CB, Niedowicz DM, Sudduth TL, Powell DK, Lin AL, Nelson PT, Thibault O, Wilcock DM, Norris CM. Targeting Astrocyte Signaling Alleviates Cerebrovascular and Synaptic Function Deficits in a Diet-Based Mouse Model of Small Cerebral Vessel Disease. J Neurosci 2023; 43:1797-1813. [PMID: 36746627 PMCID: PMC10010459 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1333-22.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the indispensable role that astrocytes play in the neurovascular unit, few studies have investigated the functional impact of astrocyte signaling in cognitive decline and dementia related to vascular pathology. Diet-mediated induction of hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) recapitulates numerous features of vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID). Here, we used astrocyte targeting approaches to evaluate astrocyte Ca2+ dysregulation and the impact of aberrant astrocyte signaling on cerebrovascular dysfunction and synapse impairment in male and female HHcy diet mice. Two-photon imaging conducted in fully awake mice revealed activity-dependent Ca2+ dysregulation in barrel cortex astrocytes under HHcy. Stimulation of contralateral whiskers elicited larger Ca2+ transients in individual astrocytes of HHcy diet mice compared with control diet mice. However, evoked Ca2+ signaling across astrocyte networks was impaired in HHcy mice. HHcy also was associated with increased activation of the Ca2+/calcineurin-dependent transcription factor NFAT4, which has been linked previously to the reactive astrocyte phenotype and synapse dysfunction in amyloid and brain injury models. Targeting the NFAT inhibitor VIVIT to astrocytes, using adeno-associated virus vectors, led to reduced GFAP promoter activity in HHcy diet mice and improved functional hyperemia in arterioles and capillaries. VIVIT expression in astrocytes also preserved CA1 synaptic function and improved spontaneous alternation performance on the Y maze. Together, the results demonstrate that aberrant astrocyte signaling can impair the major functional properties of the neurovascular unit (i.e., cerebral vessel regulation and synaptic regulation) and may therefore represent a promising drug target for treating VCID and possibly Alzheimer's disease and other related dementias.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The impact of reactive astrocytes in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias is poorly understood. Here, we evaluated Ca2+ responses and signaling in barrel cortex astrocytes of mice fed with a B-vitamin deficient diet that induces hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy), cerebral vessel disease, and cognitive decline. Multiphoton imaging in awake mice with HHcy revealed augmented Ca2+ responses in individual astrocytes, but impaired signaling across astrocyte networks. Stimulation-evoked arteriole dilation and elevated red blood cell velocity in capillaries were also impaired in cortex of awake HHcy mice. Astrocyte-specific inhibition of the Ca2+-dependent transcription factor, NFAT, normalized cerebrovascular function in HHcy mice, improved synaptic properties in brain slices, and stabilized cognition. Results suggest that astrocytes are a mechanism and possible therapeutic target for vascular-related dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradoldej Sompol
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging
- Departments of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences
| | | | - Blaine E Weiss
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging
- Departments of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences
| | - Ruei-Lung Lin
- Departments of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences
| | - Sami L Case
- Departments of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences
| | | | | | - John C Gant
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging
- Departments of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences
| | | | | | | | | | - Ai-Ling Lin
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging
- Departments of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences
| | - Peter T Nelson
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging
- Pathology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky 40536
| | - Olivier Thibault
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging
- Departments of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences
| | | | - Christopher M Norris
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging
- Departments of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences
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Henao‐Restrepo J, López‐Murillo C, Valderrama‐Carmona P, Orozco‐Santa N, Gomez J, Gutiérrez‐Vargas J, Moraga R, Toledo J, Littau JL, Härtel S, Arboleda‐Velásquez JF, Sepulveda‐Falla D, Lopera F, Cardona‐Gómez GP, Villegas A, Posada‐Duque R. Gliovascular alterations in sporadic and familial Alzheimer's disease: APOE3 Christchurch homozygote glioprotection. Brain Pathol 2023; 33:e13119. [PMID: 36130084 PMCID: PMC10041169 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.13119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In response to brain insults, astrocytes become reactive, promoting protection and tissue repair. However, astroglial reactivity is typical of brain pathologies, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Considering the heterogeneity of the reactive response, the role of astrocytes in the course of different forms of AD has been underestimated. Colombia has the largest human group known to have familial AD (FAD). This group carries the autosomal dominant and fully penetrant mutation E280A in PSEN1, which causes early-onset AD. Recently, our group identified an E280A carrier who did not develop FAD. The individual was homozygous for the Christchurch mutation R136S in APOE3 (APOEch). Remarkably, APOE is the main genetic risk factor for developing sporadic AD (SAD) and most of cerebral ApoE is produced by astroglia. Here, we characterized astrocyte properties related to reactivity, glutamate homeostasis, and structural integrity of the gliovascular unit (GVU), as factors that could underlie the pathogenesis or protection of AD. Specifically, through histological and 3D microscopy analyses of postmortem samples, we briefly describe the histopathology and cytoarchitecture of the frontal cortex of SAD, FAD, and APOEch, and demonstrate that, while astrodegeneration and vascular deterioration are prominent in SAD, FAD is characterized by hyperreactive-like glia, and APOEch displays the mildest astrocytic and vascular alterations despite having the highest burden of Aβ. Notably, astroglial, gliovascular, and vascular disturbances, as well as brain cell death, correlate with the specific astrocytic phenotypes identified in each condition. This study provides new insights into the potential relevance of the gliovasculature in the development and protection of AD. To our knowledge, this is the first study assessing the components of the GVU in human samples of SAD, FAD, and APOEch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julián Henao‐Restrepo
- Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y NaturalesUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombia
- Área de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Grupo de Neurociencias de AntioquiaUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombia
| | - Carolina López‐Murillo
- Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y NaturalesUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombia
- Área de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Grupo de Neurociencias de AntioquiaUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombia
| | - Pablo Valderrama‐Carmona
- Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y NaturalesUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombia
- Área de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Grupo de Neurociencias de AntioquiaUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombia
| | - Natalia Orozco‐Santa
- Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y NaturalesUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombia
- Área de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Grupo de Neurociencias de AntioquiaUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombia
| | - Johana Gomez
- Grupo de Neurociencias de Antioquia, Facultad de MedicinaSIU, Universidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombia
| | - Johanna Gutiérrez‐Vargas
- Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y NaturalesUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombia
- Health Sciences FacultyRemington University CorporationMedellínColombia
| | - Renato Moraga
- Biomedical Neuroscience Institute BNI, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of ChileSantiagoChile
| | - Jorge Toledo
- Biomedical Neuroscience Institute BNI, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of ChileSantiagoChile
| | - Jessica Lisa Littau
- Molecular Neuropathology of Alzheimer's DiseaseInstitute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg‐EppendorfHamburgGermany
| | - Steffen Härtel
- Biomedical Neuroscience Institute BNI, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of ChileSantiagoChile
| | - Joseph F. Arboleda‐Velásquez
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, Department of OphthalmologyHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Diego Sepulveda‐Falla
- Molecular Neuropathology of Alzheimer's DiseaseInstitute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg‐EppendorfHamburgGermany
| | - Francisco Lopera
- Grupo de Neurociencias de Antioquia, Facultad de MedicinaSIU, Universidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombia
| | - Gloria Patricia Cardona‐Gómez
- Área de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Grupo de Neurociencias de AntioquiaUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombia
| | - Andrés Villegas
- Grupo de Neurociencias de Antioquia, Facultad de MedicinaSIU, Universidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombia
| | - Rafael Posada‐Duque
- Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y NaturalesUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombia
- Área de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Grupo de Neurociencias de AntioquiaUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombia
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21
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Lochhead JJ, Williams EI, Reddell ES, Dorn E, Ronaldson PT, Davis TP. High Resolution Multiplex Confocal Imaging of the Neurovascular Unit in Health and Experimental Ischemic Stroke. Cells 2023; 12:645. [PMID: 36831312 PMCID: PMC9954836 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The neurovascular unit (NVU) is an anatomical group of cells that establishes the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and coordinates cerebral blood flow in association with neuronal function. In cerebral gray matter, cellular constituents of the NVU include endothelial cells and associated pericytes, astrocytes, neurons, and microglia. Dysfunction of the NVU is a common feature of diseases that affect the CNS, such as ischemic stroke. High-level evaluation of these NVU changes requires the use of imaging modalities that can enable the visualization of various cell types under disease conditions. In this study, we applied our confocal microscopy strategy using commercially available labeling reagents to, for the first time, simultaneously investigate associations between endothelial cells, the vascular basal lamina, pericytes, microglia, astrocytes and/or astrocyte end-feet, and neurites in both healthy and ischemic brain tissue. This allowed us to demonstrate ischemia-induced astrocyte activation, neurite loss, and microglial migration toward blood vessels in a single confocal image. Furthermore, our labeling cocktail enabled a precise quantification of changes in neurites and astrocyte reactivity, thereby showing the relationship between different NVU cellular constituents in healthy and diseased brain tissue. The application of our imaging approach for the simultaneous visualization of multiple NVU cell types provides an enhanced understanding of NVU function and pathology, a state-of-the-art advancement that will facilitate the development of more effective treatment strategies for diseases of the CNS that exhibit neurovascular dysfunction, such as ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey J. Lochhead
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Erica I. Williams
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Elizabeth S. Reddell
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Emma Dorn
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Patrick T. Ronaldson
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Thomas P. Davis
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
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22
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Zhang Y, Zhao X, Zhang Y, Zeng F, Yan S, Chen Y, Li Z, Zhou D, Liu L. The role of circadian clock in astrocytes: From cellular functions to ischemic stroke therapeutic targets. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1013027. [PMID: 36570843 PMCID: PMC9772621 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1013027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that astrocytes, the abundant cell type in the central nervous system (CNS), play a critical role in maintaining the immune response after cerebral infarction, regulating the blood-brain barrier (BBB), providing nutrients to the neurons, and reuptake of glutamate. The circadian clock is an endogenous timing system that controls and optimizes biological processes. The central circadian clock and the peripheral clock are consistent, controlled by various circadian components, and participate in the pathophysiological process of astrocytes. Existing evidence shows that circadian rhythm controls the regulation of inflammatory responses by astrocytes in ischemic stroke (IS), regulates the repair of the BBB, and plays an essential role in a series of pathological processes such as neurotoxicity and neuroprotection. In this review, we highlight the importance of astrocytes in IS and discuss the potential role of the circadian clock in influencing astrocyte pathophysiology. A comprehensive understanding of the ability of the circadian clock to regulate astrocytes after stroke will improve our ability to predict the targets and biological functions of the circadian clock and gain insight into the basis of its intervention mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxing Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China,The Graduate School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- The Medical School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China,The Graduate School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fukang Zeng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China,The Graduate School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Siyang Yan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yao Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhong Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Desheng Zhou
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China,Desheng Zhou,
| | - Lijuan Liu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China,*Correspondence: Lijuan Liu,
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23
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Oyarzún JE, Caulier-Cisterna R, González-Appelgren JP, Gonzalez L, Trujillo O, Eblen-Zajjur A, Uribe S. Non-invasive near-infrared spectroscopy assessment of the spinal neurovascular response in a patient with transverse myelitis: a case report. BMC Neurol 2022; 22:393. [PMID: 36280834 PMCID: PMC9590209 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-022-02881-1] [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: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transverse myelitis (TM) is characterized by acute development of motor, sensory and autonomic dysfunctions due to horizontally diffused inflammation in one or more segments of the spinal cord in the absence of a compressive lesion. The not well-known inflammation process induces demyelination resulting in neurological dysfunction. CASE PRESENTATION In this case report we used a functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) technique to evaluate changes in the peri-spinal vascular response induced by a peripheral median nerve electrical stimulation in a patient with chronic transverse myelitis (TM). fNIRS showed drastically reduced signal amplitude in the peri-spinal vascular response, compared to that obtained from a healthy control group throughout most of the C7-T1 and T10-L2 spinal cord segments. CONCLUSION The potential use of this relatively non-invasive fNIRS technology support the potential clinical application of this method for functional test of the spinal cord through the assessment of the spinal neurovascular response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Esteban Oyarzún
- grid.7870.80000 0001 2157 0406Centro de Imágenes Biomédicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Raúl Caulier-Cisterna
- grid.7870.80000 0001 2157 0406Centro de Imágenes Biomédicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile ,Rielo Institute for Integral Development, New York, USA
| | - Juan Pablo González-Appelgren
- grid.7870.80000 0001 2157 0406Centro de Imágenes Biomédicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Leticia Gonzalez
- grid.7870.80000 0001 2157 0406Centro de Imágenes Biomédicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Oscar Trujillo
- grid.7870.80000 0001 2157 0406Neurology Department, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Antonio Eblen-Zajjur
- grid.412193.c0000 0001 2150 3115Laboratorio de Neurociencia Traslacional, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Diego Portales Santiago, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sergio Uribe
- grid.7870.80000 0001 2157 0406Centro de Imágenes Biomédicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile ,grid.7870.80000 0001 2157 0406Radiology Department, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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24
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Liu Y, Hua Y, Park K, Volkow ND, Pan Y, Du C. Cocaine's cerebrovascular vasoconstriction is associated with astrocytic Ca 2+ increase in mice. Commun Biol 2022; 5:936. [PMID: 36097038 PMCID: PMC9468035 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03877-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Human and animal studies have reported widespread reductions in cerebral blood flow associated with chronic cocaine exposures. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying cerebral blood flow reductions are not well understood. Here, by combining a multimodal imaging platform with a genetically encoded calcium indicator, we simultaneously measured the effects of acute cocaine on neuronal and astrocytic activity, tissue oxygenation, hemodynamics and vascular diameter changes in the mouse cerebral cortex. Our results showed that cocaine constricted blood vessels (measured by vessel diameter Φ changes), decreasing cerebral total blood volume (HbT) and temporally reducing tissue oxygenation. Cellular imaging showed that the mean astrocytic Ca2+ dependent fluorescence [Formula: see text] increase in response to cocaine was weaker but longer lasting than the mean neuronal Ca2+ dependent fluorescence [Formula: see text] changes. Interestingly, while cocaine-induced [Formula: see text] increase was temporally correlated with tissue oxygenation change, the [Formula: see text] elevation after cocaine was in temporal correspondence with the long-lasting decrease in arterial blood volumes. To determine whether the temporal association between astrocytic activation and cocaine induced vasoconstriction reflected a causal association we inhibited astrocytic Ca2+ using GFAP-DREADD(Gi). Inhibition of astrocytes attenuated the vasoconstriction resulting from cocaine, providing evidence that astrocytes play a critical role in cocaine's vasoconstrictive effects in the brain. These results indicate that neurons and astrocytes play different roles in mediating neurovascular coupling in response to cocaine. Our findings implicate neuronal activation as the main driver of the short-lasting reduction in tissue oxygenation and astrocyte long-lasting activation as the driver of the persistent vasoconstriction with cocaine. Understanding the cellular and vascular interaction induced by cocaine will be helpful for future putative treatments to reduce cerebrovascular pathology from cocaine use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanzuo Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Yueming Hua
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Kicheon Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Nora D Volkow
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, Bethesda, MD, 20852, USA.
| | - Yingtian Pan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Congwu Du
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA.
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25
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Wei L, Sun X, Fan C, Li R, Zhou S, Yu H. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying diabetic retinopathy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:963615. [PMID: 36111346 PMCID: PMC9468825 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.963615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most common complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), which can lead to visual impairment and even blindness in severe cases. DR is generally considered to be a microvascular disease but its pathogenesis is still unclear. A large body of evidence shows that the development of DR is not determined by a single factor but rather by multiple related mechanisms that lead to different degrees of retinal damage in DR patients. Therefore, this article briefly reviews the pathophysiological changes in DR, and discusses the occurrence and development of DR resulting from different factors such as oxidative stress, inflammation, neovascularization, neurodegeneration, the neurovascular unit, and gut microbiota, to provide a theoretical reference for the development of new DR treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindan Wei
- Special Key Laboratory of Ocular Diseases of Guizhou Province, Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Xin Sun
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection and Therapy of Guizhou Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Chenxi Fan
- Special Key Laboratory of Ocular Diseases of Guizhou Province, Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Rongli Li
- Special Key Laboratory of Ocular Diseases of Guizhou Province, Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Shuanglong Zhou
- Special Key Laboratory of Ocular Diseases of Guizhou Province, Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Hongsong Yu
- Special Key Laboratory of Ocular Diseases of Guizhou Province, Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
- *Correspondence: Hongsong Yu,
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26
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Connexins Signatures of the Neurovascular Unit and Their Physio-Pathological Functions. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179510. [PMID: 36076908 PMCID: PMC9455936 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis is closely linked to the delicate balance of the microenvironment in which different cellular components of the neurovascular unit (NVU) coexist. Intercellular communication plays a pivotal role in exchanges of signaling molecules and mediators essential for survival functions, as well as in the removal of disturbing elements that can lead to related pathologies. The specific signatures of connexins (Cxs), proteins which form either gap junctions (GJs) or hemichannels (HCs), represent the biological substrate of the pathophysiological balance. Connexin 43 (Cx43) is undoubtedly one of the most important factors in glia–neuro–vascular crosstalk. Herein, Cxs signatures of every NVU component are highlighted and their critical influence on functional processes in healthy and pathological conditions of nervous microenvironment is reviewed.
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27
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Woo A, Botta A, Shi SSW, Paus T, Pausova Z. Obesity-Related Neuroinflammation: Magnetic Resonance and Microscopy Imaging of the Brain. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:8790. [PMID: 35955925 PMCID: PMC9368789 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a major risk factor of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The principal feature of dementia is a loss of neurons and brain atrophy. The mechanistic links between obesity and the neurodegenerative processes of dementias are not fully understood, but recent research suggests that obesity-related systemic inflammation and subsequent neuroinflammation may be involved. Adipose tissues release multiple proinflammatory molecules (fatty acids and cytokines) that impact blood and vessel cells, inducing low-grade systemic inflammation that can transition to tissues, including the brain. Inflammation in the brain-neuroinflammation-is one of key elements of the pathobiology of neurodegenerative disorders; it is characterized by the activation of microglia, the resident immune cells in the brain, and by the structural and functional changes of other cells forming the brain parenchyma, including neurons. Such cellular changes have been shown in animal models with direct methods, such as confocal microscopy. In humans, cellular changes are less tangible, as only indirect methods such as magnetic resonance (MR) imaging are usually used. In these studies, obesity and low-grade systemic inflammation have been associated with lower volumes of the cerebral gray matter, cortex, and hippocampus, as well as altered tissue MR properties (suggesting microstructural variations in cellular and molecular composition). How these structural variations in the human brain observed using MR imaging relate to the cellular variations in the animal brain seen with microscopy is not well understood. This review describes the current understanding of neuroinflammation in the context of obesity-induced systemic inflammation, and it highlights need for the bridge between animal microscopy and human MR imaging studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Woo
- The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
- Departments of Physiology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Amy Botta
- The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
- Departments of Physiology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Sammy S. W. Shi
- The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
- Departments of Physiology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Tomas Paus
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
- Departments of Psychiatry of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
- Departments of Psychology and Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
- ECOGENE-21, Chicoutimi, QC G7H 7K9, Canada
| | - Zdenka Pausova
- The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
- Departments of Physiology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
- ECOGENE-21, Chicoutimi, QC G7H 7K9, Canada
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28
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Cai M, Zhang Y, Chen S, Wu Z, Zhu L. The past, present, and future of research on neuroinflammation-induced mild cognitive impairment: A bibliometric analysis. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:968444. [PMID: 35966781 PMCID: PMC9372471 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.968444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a precursor to dementia, and neuroinflammation in the brain is thought to be one of the main pathogenic mechanisms of MCI. However, the underlying neurobiological mechanisms have not been fully explored. The purpose of this study was to establish a visual model map of the articles in the field of neuroinflammation-induced MCI over the past 11 years to reveal the research hotspots and predict the future development trends in this field, which will help to promote the research and development for MCI. Methods The “neuroinflammation” and “mild cognitive impairment” were used as search terms, and literature about neuroinflammation-induced MCI published between 2011 and 2021 was collected from the Web of Science. CiteSpace and VOSviewer were used to create visual model maps, and assess collaboration among different authors, countries, and institutions. Finally, the current research hotspots and future research directions were analyzed by using high-frequency keywords analysis and co-cited reference burst analysis. Results A total of 226 articles were retrieved. The number of publications in neuroinflammation-induced MCI shows an upward trend. Since 2018, the number of papers published in this field has increased significantly, with an average of more than 100 published each year. The United States had the highest literature production and the number of cited journals in this research area, and the National Institute on Aging was the most productive research institution. Brooks D.J. and Heneka M.T. had the highest number of publications and had the highest frequency of co-citations. The co-cited references revealed the evolution of the research themes, and the current studies are mainly focused on the effects of various metabolites on the control of microglial activation. “Cerebrospinal fluid,” “mouse model,” “tau,” “microglial activation,” “astrocytes,” and “TREM2” were the current high-frequency and emerging keywords. Conclusion Research on neuroinflammation-induced MCI is burgeoning, and the close collaboration with different nations and institutions need to be further strengthened. Current research hotspots are focused on the effects of various metabolites on microglia activation. Future studies should focus on how to regulate the phenotypes of microglia and astrocyte to reduce neuroinflammation and treat MCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Cai
- College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanqi Zhang
- School of Sports Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu, China
| | - Si Chen
- School of Sports Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu, China
| | - Zhan Wu
- The Affiliated High School of Qufu Normal University, Qufu, China
| | - Lei Zhu
- School of Sports Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu, China
- *Correspondence: Lei Zhu,
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29
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Burboa PC, Puebla M, Gaete PS, Durán WN, Lillo MA. Connexin and Pannexin Large-Pore Channels in Microcirculation and Neurovascular Coupling Function. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137303. [PMID: 35806312 PMCID: PMC9266979 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Microcirculation homeostasis depends on several channels permeable to ions and/or small molecules that facilitate the regulation of the vasomotor tone, hyperpermeability, the blood–brain barrier, and the neurovascular coupling function. Connexin (Cxs) and Pannexin (Panxs) large-pore channel proteins are implicated in several aspects of vascular physiology. The permeation of ions (i.e., Ca2+) and key metabolites (ATP, prostaglandins, D-serine, etc.) through Cxs (i.e., gap junction channels or hemichannels) and Panxs proteins plays a vital role in intercellular communication and maintaining vascular homeostasis. Therefore, dysregulation or genetic pathologies associated with these channels promote deleterious tissue consequences. This review provides an overview of current knowledge concerning the physiological role of these large-pore molecule channels in microcirculation (arterioles, capillaries, venules) and in the neurovascular coupling function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pía C. Burboa
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (P.C.B.); (W.N.D.)
- Departamento de Morfología y Función, Facultad de Salud y Ciencias Sociales, Sede Santiago Centro, Universidad de las Américas, Avenue República 71, Santiago 8370040, Chile;
| | - Mariela Puebla
- Departamento de Morfología y Función, Facultad de Salud y Ciencias Sociales, Sede Santiago Centro, Universidad de las Américas, Avenue República 71, Santiago 8370040, Chile;
| | - Pablo S. Gaete
- Department of Physiology and Membrane Biology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
| | - Walter N. Durán
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (P.C.B.); (W.N.D.)
- Rutgers School of Graduate Studies, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Mauricio A. Lillo
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (P.C.B.); (W.N.D.)
- Correspondence:
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30
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Impact of diabetes and ischemic stroke on the cerebrovasculature: A female perspective. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 167:105667. [PMID: 35227927 PMCID: PMC9615543 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a very complex interaction between the brain and the cerebral vasculature to meet the metabolic demands of the brain for proper function. Preservation of vascular networks and cerebrovascular function ultimately plays a key role in this intricate communication within the brain in health and disease. Experimental evidence showed that diabetes not only affects the architecture of cerebral blood arteries causing adverse remodeling, pathological neovascularization, and vasoregression, but also alters cerebrovascular function resulting in compromised myogenic reactivity and endothelial dysfunction. Coupled with the disruption of blood brain barrier (BBB) integrity, changes in blood flow and microbleeds into the brain can rapidly occur. When an ischemic insult is superimposed on this pathology, not only is the neurovascular injury greater, but repair mechanisms fail, resulting in greater physical and cognitive deficits. While clinically it is known that women suffer disproportionately from diabetes as well as ischemic stroke and post-stroke cognitive impairment, the cerebrovascular architecture, patho/physiology, as well as cerebrovascular contributions to stroke recovery in female and diabetic animal models are inadequately studied and highlighted in this review.
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31
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Ahmad S, Srivastava RK, Singh P, Naik UP, Srivastava AK. Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Glia-Neuron Intercellular Communication. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:844194. [PMID: 35493327 PMCID: PMC9043804 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.844194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cross talk between glia and neurons is crucial for a variety of biological functions, ranging from nervous system development, axonal conduction, synaptic transmission, neural circuit maturation, to homeostasis maintenance. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), which were initially described as cellular debris and were devoid of biological function, are now recognized as key components in cell-cell communication and play a critical role in glia-neuron communication. EVs transport the proteins, lipids, and nucleic acid cargo in intercellular communication, which alters target cells structurally and functionally. A better understanding of the roles of EVs in glia-neuron communication, both in physiological and pathological conditions, can aid in the discovery of novel therapeutic targets and the development of new biomarkers. This review aims to demonstrate that different types of glia and neuronal cells secrete various types of EVs, resulting in specific functions in intercellular communications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahzad Ahmad
- Department of Medical Elementology and Toxicology, Jamia Hamdard University, New Delhi, India
| | - Rohit K. Srivastava
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
- M.E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Pratibha Singh
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Biosciences Research Collaborative, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ulhas P. Naik
- Department of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Cardeza Foundation for Hematologic Research, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Amit K. Srivastava
- Department of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Cardeza Foundation for Hematologic Research, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- *Correspondence: Amit K. Srivastava,
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32
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Jackson JG, Krizman E, Takano H, Lee M, Choi GH, Putt ME, Robinson MB. Activation of Glutamate Transport Increases Arteriole Diameter in v ivo: Implications for Neurovascular Coupling. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:831061. [PMID: 35308116 PMCID: PMC8930833 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.831061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to meet the energetic demands of cell-to-cell signaling, increases in local neuronal signaling are matched by a coordinated increase in local blood flow, termed neurovascular coupling. Multiple different signals from neurons, astrocytes, and pericytes contribute to this control of blood flow. Previously, several groups demonstrated that inhibition/ablation of glutamate transporters attenuates the neurovascular response. However, it was not determined if glutamate transporter activation was sufficient to increase blood flow. Here, we used multiphoton imaging to monitor the diameter of fluorescently labeled cortical arterioles in anesthetized C57/B6J mice. We delivered vehicle, glutamate transporter substrates, or a combination of a glutamate transporter substrate with various pharmacologic agents via a glass micropipette while simultaneously visualizing changes in arteriole diameter. We developed a novel image analysis method to automate the measurement of arteriole diameter in these time-lapse analyses. Using this workflow, we first conducted pilot experiments in which we focally applied L-glutamate, D-aspartate, or L-threo-hydroxyaspartate (L-THA) and measured arteriole responses as proof of concept. We subsequently applied the selective glutamate transport substrate L-THA (applied at concentrations that do not activate glutamate receptors). We found that L-THA evoked a significantly larger dilation than that observed with focal saline application. This response was blocked by co-application of the potent glutamate transport inhibitor, L-(2S,3S)-3-[3-[4-(trifluoromethyl)-benzoylamino]benzyloxy]-aspartate (TFB-TBOA). Conversely, we were unable to demonstrate a reduction of this effect through co-application of a cocktail of glutamate and GABA receptor antagonists. These studies provide the first direct evidence that activation of glutamate transport is sufficient to increase arteriole diameter. We explored potential downstream mechanisms mediating this transporter-mediated dilation by using a Ca2+ chelator or inhibitors of reversed-mode Na+/Ca2+ exchange, nitric oxide synthetase, or cyclo-oxygenase. The estimated effects and confidence intervals suggested some form of inhibition for a number of these inhibitors. Limitations to our study design prevented definitive conclusions with respect to these downstream inhibitors; these limitations are discussed along with possible next steps. Understanding the mechanisms that control blood flow are important because changes in blood flow/energy supply are implicated in several neurodegenerative disorders and are used as a surrogate measure of neuronal activity in widely used techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua G. Jackson
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Elizabeth Krizman
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Hajime Takano
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Meredith Lee
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Grace H. Choi
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Mary E. Putt
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Michael B. Robinson
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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33
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Mulkey DK, Olsen ML, Ou M, Cleary CM, Du G. Putative Roles of Astrocytes in General Anesthesia. Curr Neuropharmacol 2022; 20:5-15. [PMID: 33588730 PMCID: PMC9199541 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666210215120755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
General anesthetics are a mainstay of modern medicine, and although much progress has been made towards identifying molecular targets of anesthetics and neural networks contributing to endpoints of general anesthesia, our understanding of how anesthetics work remains unclear. Reducing this knowledge gap is of fundamental importance to prevent unwanted and life-threatening side-effects associated with general anesthesia. General anesthetics are chemically diverse, yet they all have similar behavioral endpoints, and so for decades, research has sought to identify a single underlying mechanism to explain how anesthetics work. However, this effort has given way to the 'multiple target hypothesis' as it has become clear that anesthetics target many cellular proteins, including GABAA receptors, glutamate receptors, voltage-independent K+ channels, and voltagedependent K+, Ca2+ and Na+ channels, to name a few. Yet, despite evidence that astrocytes are capable of modulating multiple aspects of neural function and express many anesthetic target proteins, they have been largely ignored as potential targets of anesthesia. The purpose of this brief review is to highlight the effects of anesthetic on astrocyte processes and identify potential roles of astrocytes in behavioral endpoints of anesthesia (hypnosis, amnesia, analgesia, and immobilization).
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel K. Mulkey
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, StorrsCT, USA;,Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs CT, USA; E-mail:
| | | | | | - Colin M. Cleary
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, StorrsCT, USA
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34
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Lyon KA, Allen NJ. From Synapses to Circuits, Astrocytes Regulate Behavior. Front Neural Circuits 2022; 15:786293. [PMID: 35069124 PMCID: PMC8772456 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2021.786293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are non-neuronal cells that regulate synapses, neuronal circuits, and behavior. Astrocytes ensheath neuronal synapses to form the tripartite synapse where astrocytes influence synapse formation, function, and plasticity. Beyond the synapse, recent research has revealed that astrocyte influences on the nervous system extend to the modulation of neuronal circuitry and behavior. Here we review recent findings on the active role of astrocytes in behavioral modulation with a focus on in vivo studies, primarily in mice. Using tools to acutely manipulate astrocytes, such as optogenetics or chemogenetics, studies reviewed here have demonstrated a causal role for astrocytes in sleep, memory, sensorimotor behaviors, feeding, fear, anxiety, and cognitive processes like attention and behavioral flexibility. Current tools and future directions for astrocyte-specific manipulation, including methods for probing astrocyte heterogeneity, are discussed. Understanding the contribution of astrocytes to neuronal circuit activity and organismal behavior will be critical toward understanding how nervous system function gives rise to behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krissy A Lyon
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Nicola J Allen
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, United States
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35
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Trigiani LJ, Bourourou M, Lacalle-Aurioles M, Lecrux C, Hynes A, Spring S, Fernandes DJ, Sled JG, Lesage F, Schwaninger M, Hamel E. A functional cerebral endothelium is necessary to protect against cognitive decline. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2022; 42:74-89. [PMID: 34515549 PMCID: PMC8721775 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x211045438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
A vascular insult occurring early in disease onset may initiate cognitive decline leading to dementia, while pharmacological and lifestyle interventions can prevent this progression. Mice with a selective, tamoxifen-inducible deletion of NF-κB essential modulator (Nemo) in brain endothelial cells were studied as a model of vascular cognitive impairment. Groups included NemoFl controls and three NemobeKO groups: One untreated, and two treated with simvastatin or exercise. Social preference and nesting were impaired in NemobeKO mice and were not countered by treatments. Cerebrovascular function was compromised in NemobeKO groups regardless of treatment, with decreased changes in sensory-evoked cerebral blood flow and total hemoglobin levels, and impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation. NemobeKO mice had increased string vessel pathology, blood-brain barrier disruption, neuroinflammation, and reduced cortical somatostatin-containing interneurons. These alterations were reversed when endothelial function was recovered. Findings strongly suggest that damage to the cerebral endothelium can trigger pathologies associated with dementia and its functional integrity should be an effective target in future therapeutic efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianne J Trigiani
- Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Research, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Miled Bourourou
- Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Research, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - María Lacalle-Aurioles
- Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Research, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Clotilde Lecrux
- Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Research, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Amy Hynes
- Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Research, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Shoshana Spring
- Mouse Imaging Centre (MICe), Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Darren J Fernandes
- Mouse Imaging Centre (MICe), Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - John G Sled
- Mouse Imaging Centre (MICe), Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Frédéric Lesage
- Biomedical Engineering Institute, École Polytechnique de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Markus Schwaninger
- Institute for Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Edith Hamel
- Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Research, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
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36
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Mills SA, Jobling AI, Dixon MA, Bui BV, Vessey KA, Phipps JA, Greferath U, Venables G, Wong VHY, Wong CHY, He Z, Hui F, Young JC, Tonc J, Ivanova E, Sagdullaev BT, Fletcher EL. Fractalkine-induced microglial vasoregulation occurs within the retina and is altered early in diabetic retinopathy. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2112561118. [PMID: 34903661 PMCID: PMC8713803 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2112561118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Local blood flow control within the central nervous system (CNS) is critical to proper function and is dependent on coordination between neurons, glia, and blood vessels. Macroglia, such as astrocytes and Müller cells, contribute to this neurovascular unit within the brain and retina, respectively. This study explored the role of microglia, the innate immune cell of the CNS, in retinal vasoregulation, and highlights changes during early diabetes. Structurally, microglia were found to contact retinal capillaries and neuronal synapses. In the brain and retinal explants, the addition of fractalkine, the sole ligand for monocyte receptor Cx3cr1, resulted in capillary constriction at regions of microglial contact. This vascular regulation was dependent on microglial Cx3cr1 involvement, since genetic and pharmacological inhibition of Cx3cr1 abolished fractalkine-induced constriction. Analysis of the microglial transcriptome identified several vasoactive genes, including angiotensinogen, a constituent of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Subsequent functional analysis showed that RAS blockade via candesartan abolished microglial-induced capillary constriction. Microglial regulation was explored in a rat streptozotocin (STZ) model of diabetic retinopathy. Retinal blood flow was reduced after 4 wk due to reduced capillary diameter and this was coincident with increased microglial association. Functional assessment showed loss of microglial-capillary response in STZ-treated animals and transcriptome analysis showed evidence of RAS pathway dysregulation in microglia. While candesartan treatment reversed capillary constriction in STZ-treated animals, blood flow remained decreased likely due to dilation of larger vessels. This work shows microglia actively participate in the neurovascular unit, with aberrant microglial-vascular function possibly contributing to the early vascular compromise during diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel A Mills
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010 VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew I Jobling
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010 VIC, Australia
| | - Michael A Dixon
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010 VIC, Australia
| | - Bang V Bui
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010 VIC, Australia
| | - Kirstan A Vessey
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010 VIC, Australia
| | - Joanna A Phipps
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010 VIC, Australia
| | - Ursula Greferath
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010 VIC, Australia
| | - Gene Venables
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010 VIC, Australia
| | - Vickie H Y Wong
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010 VIC, Australia
| | - Connie H Y Wong
- Department of Medicine, Centre for Inflammatory Diseases, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, 3800 VIC, Australia
| | - Zheng He
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010 VIC, Australia
| | - Flora Hui
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010 VIC, Australia
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, 3002 VIC, Australia
| | - James C Young
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010 VIC, Australia
| | - Josh Tonc
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010 VIC, Australia
| | - Elena Ivanova
- Burke Neurological Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College, White Plains, NY 10605
| | - Botir T Sagdullaev
- Burke Neurological Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College, White Plains, NY 10605
| | - Erica L Fletcher
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010 VIC, Australia;
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37
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Starace V, Battista M, Brambati M, Cavalleri M, Bertuzzi F, Amato A, Lattanzio R, Bandello F, Cicinelli MV. The role of inflammation and neurodegeneration in diabetic macular edema. Ther Adv Ophthalmol 2021; 13:25158414211055963. [PMID: 34901746 PMCID: PMC8652911 DOI: 10.1177/25158414211055963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of diabetic macular edema (DME) is complex. Persistently high blood glucose activates multiple cellular pathways and induces inflammation, oxidation stress, and vascular dysfunction. Retinal ganglion cells, macroglial and microglial cells, endothelial cells, pericytes, and retinal pigment epithelium cells are involved. Neurodegeneration, characterized by dysfunction or apoptotic loss of retinal neurons, occurs early and independently from the vascular alterations. Despite the increasing knowledge on the pathways involved in DME, only limited therapeutic strategies are available. Besides antiangiogenic drugs and intravitreal corticosteroids, alternative therapeutic options tackling inflammation, oxidative stress, and neurodegeneration have been considered, but none of them has been currently approved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Starace
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Battista
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Brambati
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Cavalleri
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Bertuzzi
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessia Amato
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Rosangela Lattanzio
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Bandello
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, ItalySchool of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Vittoria Cicinelli
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Vita-Salute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milan, ItalySchool of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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38
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Koep JL, Taylor CE, Coombes JS, Bond B, Ainslie PN, Bailey TG. Autonomic control of cerebral blood flow: fundamental comparisons between peripheral and cerebrovascular circulations in humans. J Physiol 2021; 600:15-39. [PMID: 34842285 DOI: 10.1113/jp281058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the contribution of the autonomic nervous system to cerebral blood flow (CBF) control is challenging, and interpretations are unclear. The identification of calcium channels and adrenoreceptors within cerebral vessels has led to common misconceptions that the function of these receptors and actions mirror those of the peripheral vasculature. This review outlines the fundamental differences and complex actions of cerebral autonomic activation compared with the peripheral circulation. Anatomical differences, including the closed nature of the cerebrovasculature, and differential adrenoreceptor subtypes, density, distribution and sensitivity, provide evidence that measures on peripheral sympathetic nerve activity cannot be extrapolated to the cerebrovasculature. Cerebral sympathetic nerve activity seems to act opposingly to the peripheral circulation, mediated at least in part by changes in intracranial pressure and cerebral blood volume. Additionally, heterogeneity in cerebral adrenoreceptor distribution highlights region-specific autonomic regulation of CBF. Compensatory chemo- and autoregulatory responses throughout the cerebral circulation, and interactions with parasympathetic nerve activity are unique features to the cerebral circulation. This crosstalk between sympathetic and parasympathetic reflexes acts to ensure adequate perfusion of CBF to rising and falling perfusion pressures, optimizing delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the brain, while attempting to maintain blood volume and intracranial pressure. Herein, we highlight the distinct similarities and differences between autonomic control of cerebral and peripheral blood flow, and the regional specificity of sympathetic and parasympathetic regulation within the cerebrovasculature. Future research directions are outlined with the goal to further our understanding of autonomic control of CBF in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodie L Koep
- Physiology and Ultrasound Laboratory in Science and Exercise, Centre for Research on Exercise, Physical Activity and Health, School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Children's Health and Exercise Research Centre, Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Chloe E Taylor
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jeff S Coombes
- Physiology and Ultrasound Laboratory in Science and Exercise, Centre for Research on Exercise, Physical Activity and Health, School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Bert Bond
- Children's Health and Exercise Research Centre, Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Philip N Ainslie
- Centre for Heart, Lung and Vascular Health, School of Health and Exercise Sciences, University of British Columbia - Okanagan, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Tom G Bailey
- Physiology and Ultrasound Laboratory in Science and Exercise, Centre for Research on Exercise, Physical Activity and Health, School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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39
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Valenzuela F, Rana M, Sitaram R, Uribe S, Eblen-Zajjur A. Non-Invasive Functional Evaluation of the Human Spinal Cord by Assessing the Peri-Spinal Neurovascular Network With Near Infrared Spectroscopy. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2021; 29:2312-2321. [PMID: 34705650 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2021.3123587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Current medical care lacks an effective functional evaluation for the spinal cord. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography mainly provide structural information of the spinal cord, while spinal somatosensory evoked potentials are limited by a low signal to noise ratio. We developed a non-invasive approach based on near-infrared spectroscopy in dual-wavelength (760 and 850 nm for deoxy- or oxyhemoglobin respectively) to record the neurovascular response (NVR) of the peri-spinal vascular network at the 7th cervical and 10th thoracic vertebral levels of the spinal cord, triggered by unilateral median nerve electrical stimulation (square pulse, 5-10 mA, 5 ms, 1 pulse every 4 minutes) at the wrist. Amplitude, rise-time, and duration of NVR were characterized in 20 healthy participants. A single, painless stimulus was able to elicit a high signal-to-noise ratio and multi-segmental NVR (mainly from Oxyhemoglobin) with a fast rise time of 6.18 [4.4-10.4] seconds (median [Percentile 25-75]) followed by a slow decay phase for about 30 seconds toward the baseline. Cervical NVR was earlier and larger than thoracic and no left/right asymmetry was detected. Stimulus intensity/NVR amplitude fitted to a 2nd order function. The characterization and feasibility of the peri-spinal NVR strongly support the potential clinical applications for a functional assessment of spinal cord lesions.
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40
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Youwakim J, Girouard H. Inflammation: A Mediator Between Hypertension and Neurodegenerative Diseases. Am J Hypertens 2021; 34:1014-1030. [PMID: 34136907 DOI: 10.1093/ajh/hpab094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertension is the most prevalent and modifiable risk factor for stroke, vascular cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer's disease. However, the mechanistic link between hypertension and neurodegenerative diseases remains to be understood. Recent evidence indicates that inflammation is a common pathophysiological trait for both hypertension and neurodegenerative diseases. Low-grade chronic inflammation at the systemic and central nervous system levels is now recognized to contribute to the physiopathology of hypertension. This review speculates that inflammation represents a mediator between hypertension and neurodegenerative diseases, either by a decrease in cerebral blood flow or a disruption of the blood-brain barrier which will, in turn, let inflammatory cells and neurotoxic molecules enter the brain parenchyma. This may impact brain functions including cognition and contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. This review will thus discuss the relationship between hypertension, systemic inflammation, cerebrovascular functions, neuroinflammation, and brain dysfunctions. The potential clinical future of immunotherapies against hypertension and associated cerebrovascular risks will also be presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Youwakim
- Département de Pharmacologie et Physiologie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre interdisciplinaire de recherche sur le cerveau et l’apprentissage (CIRCA); Montreal, QC, Canada
- Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Hélène Girouard
- Département de Pharmacologie et Physiologie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre interdisciplinaire de recherche sur le cerveau et l’apprentissage (CIRCA); Montreal, QC, Canada
- Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche de l’Institut Universitaire de Gériaterie de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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41
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Hatakeyama N, Unekawa M, Murata J, Tomita Y, Suzuki N, Nakahara J, Takuwa H, Kanno I, Matsui K, Tanaka KF, Masamoto K. Differential pial and penetrating arterial responses examined by optogenetic activation of astrocytes and neurons. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2021; 41:2676-2689. [PMID: 33899558 PMCID: PMC8504944 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x211010355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A variety of brain cells participates in neurovascular coupling by transmitting and modulating vasoactive signals. The present study aimed to probe cell type-dependent cerebrovascular (i.e., pial and penetrating arterial) responses with optogenetics in the cortex of anesthetized mice. Two lines of the transgenic mice expressing a step function type of light-gated cation channel (channelrhodopsine-2; ChR2) in either cortical neurons (muscarinic acetylcholine receptors) or astrocytes (Mlc1-positive) were used in the experiments. Photo-activation of ChR2-expressing astrocytes resulted in a widespread increase in cerebral blood flow (CBF), extending to the nonstimulated periphery. In contrast, photo-activation of ChR2-expressing neurons led to a relatively localized increase in CBF. The differences in the spatial extent of the CBF responses are potentially explained by differences in the involvement of the vascular compartments. In vivo imaging of the cerebrovascular responses revealed that ChR2-expressing astrocyte activation led to the dilation of both pial and penetrating arteries, whereas ChR2-expressing neuron activation predominantly caused dilation of the penetrating arterioles. Pharmacological studies showed that cell type-specific signaling mechanisms participate in the optogenetically induced cerebrovascular responses. In conclusion, pial and penetrating arterial vasodilation were differentially evoked by ChR2-expressing astrocytes and neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nao Hatakeyama
- Graduate School of Informatics and Engineering, University of Electro-Communications, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miyuki Unekawa
- Department of Neurology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Juri Murata
- Graduate School of Informatics and Engineering, University of Electro-Communications, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Tomita
- Department of Neurology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Tomita Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Norihiro Suzuki
- Department of Neurology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Shonan Keiiku Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Jin Nakahara
- Department of Neurology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Takuwa
- Department of Functional Brain Imaging Research, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Chiba, Japan
| | - Iwao Kanno
- Department of Functional Brain Imaging Research, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ko Matsui
- Super-Network Brain Physiology, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Kenji F Tanaka
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuto Masamoto
- Graduate School of Informatics and Engineering, University of Electro-Communications, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Functional Brain Imaging Research, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Chiba, Japan.,Center for Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, University of Electro-Communications, Tokyo, Japan
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42
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Potential of Multiscale Astrocyte Imaging for Revealing Mechanisms Underlying Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910312. [PMID: 34638653 PMCID: PMC8508625 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910312] [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: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes provide trophic and metabolic support to neurons and modulate circuit formation during development. In addition, astrocytes help maintain neuronal homeostasis through neurovascular coupling, blood-brain barrier maintenance, clearance of metabolites and nonfunctional proteins via the glymphatic system, extracellular potassium buffering, and regulation of synaptic activity. Thus, astrocyte dysfunction may contribute to a myriad of neurological disorders. Indeed, astrocyte dysfunction during development has been implicated in Rett disease, Alexander's disease, epilepsy, and autism, among other disorders. Numerous disease model mice have been established to investigate these diseases, but important preclinical findings on etiology and pathophysiology have not translated into clinical interventions. A multidisciplinary approach is required to elucidate the mechanism of these diseases because astrocyte dysfunction can result in altered neuronal connectivity, morphology, and activity. Recent progress in neuroimaging techniques has enabled noninvasive investigations of brain structure and function at multiple spatiotemporal scales, and these technologies are expected to facilitate the translation of preclinical findings to clinical studies and ultimately to clinical trials. Here, we review recent progress on astrocyte contributions to neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders revealed using novel imaging techniques, from microscopy scale to mesoscopic scale.
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43
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Perosa V, Scherlek AA, Kozberg MG, Smith L, Westerling-Bui T, Auger CA, Vasylechko S, Greenberg SM, van Veluw SJ. Deep learning assisted quantitative assessment of histopathological markers of Alzheimer's disease and cerebral amyloid angiopathy. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2021; 9:141. [PMID: 34419154 PMCID: PMC8380352 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-021-01235-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditionally, analysis of neuropathological markers in neurodegenerative diseases has relied on visual assessments of stained sections. Resulting semiquantitative scores often vary between individual raters and research centers, limiting statistical approaches. To overcome these issues, we have developed six deep learning-based models, that identify some of the most characteristic markers of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). The deep learning-based models are trained to differentially detect parenchymal amyloid β (Aβ)-plaques, vascular Aβ-deposition, iron and calcium deposition, reactive astrocytes, microglia, as well as fibrin extravasation. The models were trained on digitized histopathological slides from brains of patients with AD and CAA, using a workflow that allows neuropathology experts to train convolutional neural networks (CNNs) on a cloud-based graphical interface. Validation of all models indicated a very good to excellent performance compared to three independent expert human raters. Furthermore, the Aβ and iron models were consistent with previously acquired semiquantitative scores in the same dataset and allowed the use of more complex statistical approaches. For example, linear mixed effects models could be used to confirm the previously described relationship between leptomeningeal CAA severity and cortical iron accumulation. A similar approach enabled us to explore the association between neuroinflammation and disparate Aβ pathologies. The presented workflow is easy for researchers with pathological expertise to implement and is customizable for additional histopathological markers. The implementation of deep learning-assisted analyses of histopathological slides is likely to promote standardization of the assessment of neuropathological markers across research centers, which will allow specific pathophysiological questions in neurodegenerative disease to be addressed in a harmonized way and on a larger scale.
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Haidey JN, Peringod G, Institoris A, Gorzo KA, Nicola W, Vandal M, Ito K, Liu S, Fielding C, Visser F, Nguyen MD, Gordon GR. Astrocytes regulate ultra-slow arteriole oscillations via stretch-mediated TRPV4-COX-1 feedback. Cell Rep 2021; 36:109405. [PMID: 34348138 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Very-low-frequency oscillations in microvascular diameter cause fluctuations in oxygen delivery that are important for fueling the brain and for functional imaging. However, little is known about how the brain regulates ongoing oscillations in cerebral blood flow. In mouse and rat cortical brain slice arterioles, we find that selectively enhancing tone is sufficient to recruit a TRPV4-mediated Ca2+ elevation in adjacent astrocyte endfeet. This endfoot Ca2+ signal triggers COX-1-mediated "feedback vasodilators" that limit the extent of evoked vasoconstriction, as well as constrain fictive vasomotion in slices. Astrocyte-Ptgs1 knockdown in vivo increases the power of arteriole oscillations across a broad range of very low frequencies (0.01-0.3 Hz), including ultra-slow vasomotion (∼0.1 Hz). Conversely, clamping astrocyte Ca2+in vivo reduces the power of vasomotion. These data demonstrate bidirectional communication between arterioles and astrocyte endfeet to regulate oscillatory microvasculature activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan N Haidey
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Govind Peringod
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Adam Institoris
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Kelsea A Gorzo
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Wilten Nicola
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada; Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Milène Vandal
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Kenichi Ito
- Centre for Genome Engineering, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Shiying Liu
- Centre for Genome Engineering, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Cameron Fielding
- Centre for Genome Engineering, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Frank Visser
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Minh Dang Nguyen
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Grant R Gordon
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada.
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45
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Kempf J, Knelles K, Hersbach BA, Petrik D, Riedemann T, Bednarova V, Janjic A, Simon-Ebert T, Enard W, Smialowski P, Götz M, Masserdotti G. Heterogeneity of neurons reprogrammed from spinal cord astrocytes by the proneural factors Ascl1 and Neurogenin2. Cell Rep 2021; 36:109409. [PMID: 34289357 PMCID: PMC8316252 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are a viable source for generating new neurons via direct conversion. However, little is known about the neurogenic cascades triggered in astrocytes from different regions of the CNS. Here, we examine the transcriptome induced by the proneural factors Ascl1 and Neurog2 in spinal cord-derived astrocytes in vitro. Each factor initially elicits different neurogenic programs that later converge to a V2 interneuron-like state. Intriguingly, patch sequencing (patch-seq) shows no overall correlation between functional properties and the transcriptome of the heterogenous induced neurons, except for K-channels. For example, some neurons with fully mature electrophysiological properties still express astrocyte genes, thus calling for careful molecular and functional analysis. Comparing the transcriptomes of spinal cord- and cerebral-cortex-derived astrocytes reveals profound differences, including developmental patterning cues maintained in vitro. These relate to the distinct neuronal identity elicited by Ascl1 and Neurog2 reflecting their developmental functions in subtype specification of the respective CNS region.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Kempf
- Biomedical Center Munich, Physiological Genomics, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany
| | - K Knelles
- Biomedical Center Munich, Physiological Genomics, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany
| | - B A Hersbach
- Biomedical Center Munich, Physiological Genomics, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany; Institute for Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg 85764, Germany; Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany
| | - D Petrik
- Biomedical Center Munich, Physiological Genomics, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany; Institute for Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg 85764, Germany; School of Biosciences, The Sir Martin Evans Building, Cardiff University, CF10 3AX Cardiff, UK
| | - T Riedemann
- Biomedical Center Munich, Physiological Genomics, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany
| | - V Bednarova
- Biomedical Center Munich, Physiological Genomics, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany
| | - A Janjic
- Anthropology and Human Genomics, Faculty of Biology, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany
| | - T Simon-Ebert
- Biomedical Center Munich, Physiological Genomics, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany
| | - W Enard
- Biomedical Center Munich, Bioinformatic Core Facility, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany
| | - P Smialowski
- Biomedical Center Munich, Physiological Genomics, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany; Institute for Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg 85764, Germany; School of Biosciences, The Sir Martin Evans Building, Cardiff University, CF10 3AX Cardiff, UK
| | - M Götz
- Biomedical Center Munich, Physiological Genomics, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany; Institute for Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg 85764, Germany; Excellence Cluster of Systems Neurology (SYNERGY), Munich, Germany.
| | - G Masserdotti
- Biomedical Center Munich, Physiological Genomics, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany; Institute for Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg 85764, Germany.
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46
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Stackhouse TL, Mishra A. Neurovascular Coupling in Development and Disease: Focus on Astrocytes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:702832. [PMID: 34327206 PMCID: PMC8313501 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.702832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurovascular coupling is a crucial mechanism that matches the high energy demand of the brain with a supply of energy substrates from the blood. Signaling within the neurovascular unit is responsible for activity-dependent changes in cerebral blood flow. The strength and reliability of neurovascular coupling form the basis of non-invasive human neuroimaging techniques, including blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging. Interestingly, BOLD signals are negative in infants, indicating a mismatch between metabolism and blood flow upon neural activation; this response is the opposite of that observed in healthy adults where activity evokes a large oversupply of blood flow. Negative neurovascular coupling has also been observed in rodents at early postnatal stages, further implying that this is a process that matures during development. This rationale is consistent with the morphological maturation of the neurovascular unit, which occurs over a similar time frame. While neurons differentiate before birth, astrocytes differentiate postnatally in rodents and the maturation of their complex morphology during the first few weeks of life links them with synapses and the vasculature. The vascular network is also incomplete in neonates and matures in parallel with astrocytes. Here, we review the timeline of the structural maturation of the neurovascular unit with special emphasis on astrocytes and the vascular tree and what it implies for functional maturation of neurovascular coupling. We also discuss similarities between immature astrocytes during development and reactive astrocytes in disease, which are relevant to neurovascular coupling. Finally, we close by pointing out current gaps in knowledge that must be addressed to fully elucidate the mechanisms underlying neurovascular coupling maturation, with the expectation that this may also clarify astrocyte-dependent mechanisms of cerebrovascular impairment in neurodegenerative conditions in which reduced or negative neurovascular coupling is noted, such as stroke and Alzheimer’s disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa L Stackhouse
- Department of Neurology, Jungers Center for Neurosciences Research, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Anusha Mishra
- Department of Neurology, Jungers Center for Neurosciences Research, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States.,Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Sciences University, Portland, OR, United States
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47
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Lv T, Zhao B, Hu Q, Zhang X. The Glymphatic System: A Novel Therapeutic Target for Stroke Treatment. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:689098. [PMID: 34305569 PMCID: PMC8297504 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.689098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The glymphatic system (GS) is a novel defined brain-wide perivascular transit network between cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and interstitial solutes that facilitates the clearance of brain metabolic wastes. The complicated network of the GS consists of the periarterial CSF influx pathway, astrocytes-mediated convective transport of fluid and solutes supported by AQP4 water channels, and perivenous efflux pathway. Recent researches indicate that the GS dysfunction is associated with various neurological disorders, including traumatic brain injury, hydrocephalus, epilepsy, migraine, and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Meanwhile, the GS also plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiological process of stroke, including brain edema, blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption, immune cell infiltration, neuroinflammation, and neuronal apoptosis. In this review, we illustrated the key anatomical structures of the GS, the relationship between the GS and the meningeal lymphatic system, the interaction between the GS and the BBB, and the crosstalk between astrocytes and other GS cellular components. In addition, we contributed to the current knowledge about the role of the GS in the pathology of stroke and the role of AQP4 in stroke. We further discussed the potential use of the GS in early risk assessment, diagnostics, prognostics, and therapeutics of stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Lv
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qin Hu
- Central Laboratory, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohua Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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48
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Yabluchanskiy A, Nyul-Toth A, Csiszar A, Gulej R, Saunders D, Towner R, Turner M, Zhao Y, Abdelkari D, Rypma B, Tarantini S. Age-related alterations in the cerebrovasculature affect neurovascular coupling and BOLD fMRI responses: Insights from animal models of aging. Psychophysiology 2021; 58:e13718. [PMID: 33141436 PMCID: PMC9166153 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.13718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The present and future research efforts in cognitive neuroscience and psychophysiology rely on the measurement, understanding, and interpretation of blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to effectively investigate brain function. Aging and age-associated pathophysiological processes change the structural and functional integrity of the cerebrovasculature which can significantly alter how the BOLD signal is recorded and interpreted. In order to gain an improved understanding of the benefits, drawbacks, and methodological implications for BOLD fMRI in the context of cognitive neuroscience, it is crucial to understand the cellular and molecular mechanism of age-related vascular pathologies. This review discusses the multifaceted effects of aging and the contributions of age-related pathologies on structural and functional integrity of the cerebral microcirculation as they has been investigated in animal models of aging, including age-related alterations in neurovascular coupling responses, cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in microvascular damage, vascular rarefaction, blood-brain barrier disruption, senescence, humoral deficiencies as they relate to, and potentially introduce confounding factors in the interpretation of BOLD fMRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andriy Yabluchanskiy
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Neurodegeneration Program, Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Adam Nyul-Toth
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Neurodegeneration Program, Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA,Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Anna Csiszar
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Neurodegeneration Program, Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Rafal Gulej
- Advanced Magnetic Resonance Center, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma, OK, USA
| | - Debra Saunders
- Advanced Magnetic Resonance Center, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma, OK, USA
| | - Rheal Towner
- Advanced Magnetic Resonance Center, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma, OK, USA
| | - Monroe Turner
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Yuguang Zhao
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Dema Abdelkari
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Bart Rypma
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA,Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Stefano Tarantini
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Neurodegeneration Program, Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA,International Training Program in Geroscience, Doctoral School of Basic and Translational Medicine/Department of Public Health, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary,Department of Health Promotion Sciences, College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
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49
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Mollakazemi MJ, Biswal D, Sunderam S, Patwardhan A. EEG segments synchronized to be temporally farthest from the R-waves in ECG are more informative during listening to music. Biomed Signal Process Control 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bspc.2021.102660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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50
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Precapillary sphincters and pericytes at first-order capillaries as key regulators for brain capillary perfusion. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2023749118. [PMID: 34155102 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2023749118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rises in local neural activity trigger local increases of cerebral blood flow, which is essential to match local energy demands. However, the specific location of microvascular flow control is incompletely understood. Here, we used two-photon microscopy to observe brain microvasculature in vivo. Small spatial movement of a three-dimensional (3D) vasculature makes it challenging to precisely measure vessel diameter at a single x-y plane. To overcome this problem, we carried out four-dimensional (x-y-z-t) imaging of brain microvessels during exposure to vasoactive molecules in order to constrain the impact of brain movements on the recordings. We demonstrate that rises in synaptic activity, acetylcholine, nitric oxide, cyclic guanosine monophosphate, ATP-sensitive potassium channels, and endothelin-1 exert far greater effects on brain precapillary sphincters and first-order capillaries than on penetrating arterioles or downstream capillaries, but with similar kinetics. The high level of responsiveness at precapillary sphincters and first-order capillaries was matched by a higher level of α-smooth muscle actin in pericytes as compared to penetrating arterioles and downstream capillaries. Mathematical modeling based on 3D vasculature reconstruction showed that precapillary sphincters predominantly regulate capillary blood flow and pressure as compared to penetrating arterioles and downstream capillaries. Our results confirm a key role for precapillary sphincters and pericytes on first-order capillaries as sensors and effectors of endothelium- or brain-derived vascular signals.
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