1
|
Richter E, Patel P, Babu JR, Wang X, Geetha T. The Importance of Sleep in Overcoming Childhood Obesity and Reshaping Epigenetics. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1334. [PMID: 38927541 PMCID: PMC11201669 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12061334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of childhood obesity is a complex process influenced by a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors, such as sleep, diet, physical activity, and socioeconomic status. Long-term solutions for decreasing the risk of childhood obesity remain elusive, despite significant advancements in promoting health and well-being in school and at home. Challenges persist in areas such as adherence to interventions, addressing underlying social determinants, and individual differences in response to treatment. Over the last decade, there has been significant progress in epigenetics, along with increased curiosity in gaining insights into how sleep and lifestyle decisions impact an individual's health. Epigenetic modifications affect the expression of genes without causing changes to the fundamental DNA sequence. In recent years, numerous research studies have explored the correlation between sleep and the epigenome, giving a better understanding of DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs. Although significant findings have been made about the influence of sleep on epigenetics, a notable gap exists in the literature concerning sleep-related genes specifically associated with childhood obesity. Consequently, it is crucial to delve deeper into this area to enhance our understanding. Therefore, this review primarily focuses on the connection between sleep patterns and epigenetic modifications in genes related to childhood obesity. Exploring the interplay between sleep, epigenetics, and childhood obesity can potentially contribute to improved overall health outcomes. This comprehensive review encompasses studies focusing on sleep-related genes linked to obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erika Richter
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Priyadarshni Patel
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Jeganathan Ramesh Babu
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Boshell Metabolic Diseases and Diabetes Program, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Xu Wang
- Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL 35806, USA
| | - Thangiah Geetha
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Boshell Metabolic Diseases and Diabetes Program, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Abstract
The brain is designed not only with molecules and cellular processes that help to form memories but also with molecules and cellular processes that suppress the formation and retention of memory. The latter processes are critical for an efficient memory management system, given the vast amount of information that each person experiences in their daily activities and that most of this information becomes irrelevant with time. Thus, efficiency dictates that the brain should have processes for selecting the most critical information for storage and suppressing the irrelevant or forgetting it later should it escape the initial filters. Such memory suppressor molecules and processes are revealed by genetic or pharmacologic insults that lead to enhanced memory expression. We review here the predominant memory suppressor molecules and processes that have recently been discovered. They are diverse, as expected, because the brain is complex and employs many different strategies and mechanisms to form memories. They include the gene-repressive actions of small noncoding RNAs, repressors of protein synthesis, cAMP-mediated gene expression pathways, inter- and intracellular signaling pathways for normal forgetting, and others. A deep understanding of memory suppressor molecules and processes is necessary to fully comprehend how the brain forms, stabilizes, and retrieves memories and to reveal how brain disorders disrupt memory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel C. Noyes
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida Scripps Biomedical Research, Jupiter, FL, USA
| | - Ronald L. Davis
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida Scripps Biomedical Research, Jupiter, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Al-Smadi S, Padros A, Goss GG, Dickson CT. The translational inhibitor and amnestic agent emetine also suppresses ongoing hippocampal neural activity similarly to other blockers of protein synthesis. Hippocampus 2024. [PMID: 38785391 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.23611] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
The consolidation of memory is thought to ultimately depend on the synthesis of new proteins, since translational inhibitors such as anisomycin and cycloheximide adversely affect the permanence of long-term memory. However, when applied directly in brain, these agents also profoundly suppress neural activity to an extent that is directly correlated to the degree of protein synthesis inhibition caused. Given that neural activity itself is likely to help mediate consolidation, this finding is a serious criticism of the strict de novo protein hypothesis of memory. Here, we test the neurophysiological effects of another translational inhibitor, emetine. Unilateral intra-hippocampal infusion of emetine suppressed ongoing local field and multiunit activity at ipsilateral sites as compared to the contralateral hippocampus in a fashion that was positively correlated to the degree of protein synthesis inhibition as confirmed by autoradiography. This suppression of activity was also specific to the circumscribed brain region in which protein synthesis inhibition took place. These experiments provide further evidence that ongoing protein synthesis is necessary and fundamental for neural function and suggest that the disruption of memory observed in behavioral experiments using translational inhibitors may be due, in large part, to neural suppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Al-Smadi
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - A Padros
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - G G Goss
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - C T Dickson
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Leonetti AM, Galluzzo IR, McLean TAD, Stefanelli G, Ramnaraign F, Holm S, Winston SM, Reeves IL, Brimble MA, Walters BJ. The role of the m6A/m demethylase FTO in memory is both task and sex-dependent in mice. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2024; 210:107903. [PMID: 38403011 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2024.107903] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Formation of long-term memories requires learning-induced changes in both transcription and translation. Epitranscriptomic modifications of RNA recently emerged as critical regulators of RNA dynamics, whereby adenosine methylation (m6A) regulates translation, mRNA stability, mRNA localization, and memory formation. Prior work demonstrated a pro-memory phenotype of m6A, as loss of m6A impairs and loss of the m6A/m demethylase FTO improves memory formation. Critically, these experiments focused exclusively on aversive memory tasks and were only performed in male mice. Here we show that the task type and sex of the animal alter effects of m6A on memory, whereby FTO-depletion impaired object location memory in male mice, in contrast to the previously reported beneficial effects of FTO depletion on aversive memory. Additionally, we show that female mice have no change in performance after FTO depletion, demonstrating that sex of the mouse is a critical variable for understanding how m6A contributes to memory formation. Our study provides the first evidence for FTO regulation of non-aversive spatial memory and sexspecific effects of m6A, suggesting that identification of differentially methylated targets in each sex and task will be critical for understanding how epitranscriptomic modifications regulate memory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Leonetti
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada; Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G3, Canada; Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada; Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada.
| | - Isabella R Galluzzo
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G3, Canada.
| | - Timothy A D McLean
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G3, Canada.
| | - Gilda Stefanelli
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Marie-Curie Private, ON K1N 9A, Canada.
| | - Fiona Ramnaraign
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada.
| | - Samuel Holm
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada.
| | - Stephen M Winston
- Department of Surgery, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
| | - Isaiah L Reeves
- Department of Surgery, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, USA; Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
| | - Mark A Brimble
- Dept of Host-Microbe Interactions, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA.
| | - Brandon J Walters
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada; Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G3, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Moon S, Lee HH, Archer-Hartmann S, Nagai N, Mubasher Z, Parappurath M, Ahmed L, Ramos RL, Kimata K, Azadi P, Cai W, Zhao JY. Knockout of the intellectual disability-linked gene Hs6st2 in mice decreases heparan sulfate 6-O-sulfation, impairs dendritic spines of hippocampal neurons, and affects memory. Glycobiology 2024; 34:cwad095. [PMID: 38015989 PMCID: PMC10969535 DOI: 10.1093/glycob/cwad095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Heparan sulfate (HS) is a linear polysaccharide that plays a key role in cellular signaling networks. HS functions are regulated by its 6-O-sulfation, which is catalyzed by three HS 6-O-sulfotransferases (HS6STs). Notably, HS6ST2 is mainly expressed in the brain and HS6ST2 mutations are linked to brain disorders, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. To determine the role of Hs6st2 in the brain, we carried out a series of molecular and behavioral assessments on Hs6st2 knockout mice. We first carried out strong anion exchange-high performance liquid chromatography and found that knockout of Hs6st2 moderately decreases HS 6-O-sulfation levels in the brain. We then assessed body weights and found that Hs6st2 knockout mice exhibit increased body weight, which is associated with abnormal metabolic pathways. We also performed behavioral tests and found that Hs6st2 knockout mice showed memory deficits, which recapitulate patient clinical symptoms. To determine the molecular mechanisms underlying the memory deficits, we used RNA sequencing to examine transcriptomes in two memory-related brain regions, the hippocampus and cerebral cortex. We found that knockout of Hs6st2 impairs transcriptome in the hippocampus, but only mildly in the cerebral cortex. Furthermore, the transcriptome changes in the hippocampus are enriched in dendrite and synapse pathways. We also found that knockout of Hs6st2 decreases HS levels and impairs dendritic spines in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons. Taken together, our study provides novel molecular and behavioral insights into the role of Hs6st2 in the brain, which facilitates a better understanding of HS6ST2 and HS-linked brain disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sohyun Moon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Northern Boulevard, P.O. Box 8000, Old Westbury, New York 11568, United States
| | - Hiu Ham Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Northern Boulevard, P.O. Box 8000, Old Westbury, New York 11568, United States
| | - Stephanie Archer-Hartmann
- Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, 315 Riverbend Road, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, United States
| | - Naoko Nagai
- Institute for Molecular Science of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, 1-1 Yazakokarimata, Nagakute, Aichi 480-1195, Japan
| | - Zainab Mubasher
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Northern Boulevard, P.O. Box 8000, Old Westbury, New York 11568, United States
| | - Mahima Parappurath
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Northern Boulevard, P.O. Box 8000, Old Westbury, New York 11568, United States
| | - Laiba Ahmed
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Northern Boulevard, P.O. Box 8000, Old Westbury, New York 11568, United States
| | - Raddy L Ramos
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Northern Boulevard, P.O. Box 8000, Old Westbury, New York 11568, United States
| | - Koji Kimata
- Multidisciplinary Pain Center, Aichi Medical University, 1-1 Yazakokarimata, Nagakute, Aichi 480-1195, Japan
| | - Parastoo Azadi
- Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, 315 Riverbend Road, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, United States
| | - Weikang Cai
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Northern Boulevard, P.O. Box 8000, Old Westbury, New York 11568, United States
| | - Jerry Yingtao Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Northern Boulevard, P.O. Box 8000, Old Westbury, New York 11568, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Berry JA, Guhle DC, Davis RL. Active forgetting and neuropsychiatric diseases. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02521-9. [PMID: 38532011 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02521-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Recent and pioneering animal research has revealed the brain utilizes a variety of molecular, cellular, and network-level mechanisms used to forget memories in a process referred to as "active forgetting". Active forgetting increases behavioral flexibility and removes irrelevant information. Individuals with impaired active forgetting mechanisms can experience intrusive memories, distressing thoughts, and unwanted impulses that occur in neuropsychiatric diseases. The current evidence indicates that active forgetting mechanisms degrade, or mask, molecular and cellular memory traces created in synaptic connections of "engram cells" that are specific for a given memory. Combined molecular genetic/behavioral studies using Drosophila have uncovered a complex system of cellular active-forgetting pathways within engram cells that is regulated by dopamine neurons and involves dopamine-nitric oxide co-transmission and reception, endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ signaling, and cytoskeletal remodeling machinery regulated by small GTPases. Some of these molecular cellular mechanisms have already been found to be conserved in mammals. Interestingly, some pathways independently regulate forgetting of distinct memory types and temporal phases, suggesting a multi-layering organization of forgetting systems. In mammals, active forgetting also involves modulation of memory trace synaptic strength by altering AMPA receptor trafficking. Furthermore, active-forgetting employs network level mechanisms wherein non-engram neurons, newly born-engram neurons, and glial cells regulate engram synapses in a state and experience dependent manner. Remarkably, there is evidence for potential coordination between the network and cellular level forgetting mechanisms. Finally, subjects with several neuropsychiatric diseases have been tested and shown to be impaired in active forgetting. Insights obtained from research on active forgetting in animal models will continue to enrich our understanding of the brain dysfunctions that occur in neuropsychiatric diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob A Berry
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AL, T6G 2E9, Canada.
| | - Dana C Guhle
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AL, T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Ronald L Davis
- Department of Neuroscience, UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL, 33458, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wen K, Shi Z, Yu P, Mo L, Sullere S, Yang V, Westneat N, Beeler JA, McGehee DS, Doiron B, Zhuang X. Opposing Motor Memories in the Direct and Indirect Pathways of the Basal Ganglia. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.26.582159. [PMID: 38463990 PMCID: PMC10925233 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.26.582159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Loss of dopamine neurons causes motor deterioration in Parkinson's disease patients. We have previously reported that in addition to acute motor impairment, the impaired motor behavior is encoded into long-term memory in an experience-dependent and task-specific manner, a phenomenon we refer to as aberrant inhibitory motor learning. Although normal motor learning and aberrant inhibitory learning oppose each other and this is manifested in apparent motor performance, in the present study, we found that normal motor memory acquired prior to aberrant inhibitory learning remains preserved in the brain, suggesting the existence of independent storage. To investigate the neuronal circuits underlying these two opposing memories, we took advantage of the RNA-binding protein YTHDF1, an m 6 A RNA methylation reader involved in the regulation of protein synthesis and learning/memory. Conditional deletion of Ythdf1 in either D1 or D2 receptor-expressing neurons revealed that normal motor memory is stored in the D1 (direct) pathway of the basal ganglia, while inhibitory memory is stored in the D2 (indirect) pathway. Furthermore, fiber photometry recordings of GCaMP signals from striatal D1 (dSPN) and D2 (iSPN) receptor-expressing neurons support the preservation of normal memory in the direct pathway after aberrant inhibitory learning, with activities of dSPN predictive of motor performance. Finally, a computational model based on activities of motor cortical neurons, dSPN and iSPN neurons, and their interactions through the basal ganglia loops supports the above observations. These findings have important implications for novel approaches in treating Parkinson's disease by reactivating preserved normal memory, and in treating hyperkinetic movement disorders such as chorea or tics by erasing aberrant motor memories.
Collapse
|
8
|
Grella SL, Donaldson TN. Contextual memory engrams, and the neuromodulatory influence of the locus coeruleus. Front Mol Neurosci 2024; 17:1342622. [PMID: 38375501 PMCID: PMC10875109 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1342622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Here, we review the basis of contextual memory at a conceptual and cellular level. We begin with an overview of the philosophical foundations of traversing space, followed by theories covering the material bases of contextual representations in the hippocampus (engrams), exploring functional characteristics of the cells and subfields within. Next, we explore various methodological approaches for investigating contextual memory engrams, emphasizing plasticity mechanisms. This leads us to discuss the role of neuromodulatory inputs in governing these dynamic changes. We then outline a recent hypothesis involving noradrenergic and dopaminergic projections from the locus coeruleus (LC) to different subregions of the hippocampus, in sculpting contextual representations, giving a brief description of the neuroanatomical and physiological properties of the LC. Finally, we examine how activity in the LC influences contextual memory processes through synaptic plasticity mechanisms to alter hippocampal engrams. Overall, we find that phasic activation of the LC plays an important role in promoting new learning and altering mnemonic processes at the behavioral and cellular level through the neuromodulatory influence of NE/DA in the hippocampus. These findings may provide insight into mechanisms of hippocampal remapping and memory updating, memory processes that are potentially dysregulated in certain psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L. Grella
- MNEME Lab, Department of Psychology, Program in Neuroscience, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Tia N. Donaldson
- Systems Neuroscience and Behavior Lab, Department of Psychology, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ye L, Zhang B, Zhou J, Yang X, Zhang X, Tan W, Li X. LC-MS/MS-based targeted amino acid metabolic profile of Auricularia cornea grown on pinecone substrate. Food Chem 2024; 432:137247. [PMID: 37647707 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2023.137247] [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: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Pinecone substrate offers an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative for cultivating edible fungi. This pioneering study explores the 94 amino acids metabolic profiles of Auricularia cornea grown on various pinecone substrates. To our knowledge, this is the first study of quantify A. cornea on an oleaginous substrate (pinecone) using targeted LC-MS /MS-based metabolomics approaches. Five different pinecone substrate percentages (0%, 7%, 14%, 21%, and 28% respectively) were used for A. cornea culture, and the resulting fruiting bodies were analyzed for amino acids metabolic profiles. Detected 79 amino acids metabolites, 15 undetected. High contents of succinic-acid and γ-aminobutyric acid. Thirty-three amino acid metabolites showed significant differences between groups, primarily related to protein synthesis. KEGG analysis revealed that seven major metabolic pathways were significantly enriched. The findings provide valuable insights into the metabolite composition of A. cornea grown on a pinecone substrate, potentially contribute to the understanding of its nutritional and medicinal properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Ye
- Sichuan Institute of Edible Fungi, Chengdu 610066, China; Department of Microbiology, College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611134, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Sichuan Institute of Edible Fungi, Chengdu 610066, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Sichuan Institute of Edible Fungi, Chengdu 610066, China
| | - Xuezhen Yang
- Sichuan Institute of Edible Fungi, Chengdu 610066, China
| | - Xiaoping Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611134, China
| | - Wei Tan
- Sichuan Institute of Edible Fungi, Chengdu 610066, China.
| | - Xiaolin Li
- Sichuan Institute of Edible Fungi, Chengdu 610066, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bryant KG, Singh B, Barker JM. Sex and individual differences in the effect of chronic low-dose ethanol on behavioral strategy selection. ALCOHOL, CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 48:132-141. [PMID: 38206280 PMCID: PMC10784635 DOI: 10.1111/acer.15218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of an alcohol use disorder (AUD) involves impaired behavioral control and flexibility. Behavioral inflexibility includes an inability to shift behavior in response to changes in behavioral outcomes. Low levels of ethanol drinking may promote the formation of inflexible, habitual reward seeking, but this may depend on the timing of ethanol exposure in relation to learning. The goal of this study was to determine whether a history of low-dose ethanol exposure promoted contingency-insensitive sucrose seeking and altered behavioral strategy selection. METHODS Male and female C57BL/6J mice were trained to perform a response (lever press) for sucrose on two different reinforcement schedules: one that is thought to promote inflexible responding (random interval) and one that maintains flexible responding (variable ratio [VR]). Following instrumental training each day, mice were exposed to saline or low-dose ethanol (0.5 g/kg; i.p.) either proximal (1 h after) or distal (4 h after) to learning. Mice were then tested for sensitivity to changes in contingency in a contingency degradation test. RESULTS A history of low-dose ethanol exposure shifted behavioral strategy selection, as measured by reward tracking behavior, but this depended on sex and reinforcement schedule history. Both male and female mice used different strategies depending on the reinforcement schedule, but only males exhibited ethanol-induced shifts in strategy selection. A history of low-dose ethanol exposure did not impact contingency sensitivity in males but promoted insensitivity in females specifically on the VR lever. CONCLUSIONS Female mice show distinct behavioral effects of repeated, low-dose ethanol exposure as compared to males, with sex differences in the use of reward tracking strategies to guide behavior. Future studies should investigate sex differences in the neural consequences of chronic low-dose ethanol exposure that may underlie behavioral changes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen G. Bryant
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19102
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202
| | - Binay Singh
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19102
| | - Jacqueline M. Barker
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19102
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Atta-Ur-Rahman. Protein Folding and Molecular Basis of Memory: Molecular Vibrations and Quantum Entanglement as Basis of Consciousness. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:258-265. [PMID: 37424348 DOI: 10.2174/0929867331666230707123345] [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: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Atta-Ur-Rahman
- Kings College, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1st, United Kingdom
- H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Fan S, Wang X, Gao N, Wei S. Electroacupuncture Pretreatment Attenuates Learning Memory Impairment Induced by Repeated Propofol Exposure and Modulates Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity in Rats. J Inflamm Res 2023; 16:4559-4573. [PMID: 37868829 PMCID: PMC10588748 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s427925] [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: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Recurrent propofol anesthesia in the peak of neurodevelopment may lead to learning-memory decline. This study aimed to examine the efficacy of electroacupuncture pretreatment in ameliorating the aforementioned learning memory deficits and to explore its underlying mechanisms in a rat model of repeated propofol exposure. Methods 10-day-old Sprague Dawley rats were randomly assigned to five groups: the control, fat emulsion, propofol, electroacupuncture pretreatment and electroacupuncture pretreatment combined with propofol groups. The electroacupuncture pretreatment involved three consecutive daily sessions, while propofol was received intraperitoneally once daily for five days. Following the modeling period, the rats' learning-memory performance was assessed using the New Novel Arm Y-maze, New Object Recognition, and Morris Water Maze. The Nissl staining method was used to observe the development of hippocampal neurons, while Golgi staining was employed to observe hippocampal synaptic development. Results The electroacupuncture pretreatment significantly attenuated the learning and memory impairment induced by recurring propofol exposure in rats. Additionally, it facilitated the development of hippocampal neurons and synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus. Immunofluorescence and Western Blot analyses were conducted to detect the expression of proteins related to apoptosis, learning memory, and synaptic plasticity. In the propofol group, the pro-apoptotic factors Caspase-3 and Bax was up-regulated, while the anti-apoptotic factor Bcl-2 was down-regulated, as compared to the blank group. Additionally, the phosphorylated cAMP-response element binding protein (pCREB), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), synaptophysin, and growth associated protein-43 (GAP-43) was significantly decreased. In contrast, the electroacupuncture pretreatment combined with propofol group exhibited decreased the Caspase-3 and Bax and increased the Bcl-2, as compared to the propofol group, meanwhile, the pCREB, BDNF, Synaptophysin and GAP-43 was increased. Conclusion Our findings indicate that electroacupuncture pretreatment can alleviate the learning and memory impairment induced by recurring propofol exposure in rats. This is achieved by enhancing hippocampal synaptic plasticity, activating the pCREB/BDNF pathway and inhibiting neuronal apoptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shunqin Fan
- Department of Anesthesiology, International Zhuang Medical Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xijun Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, International Zhuang Medical Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ning Gao
- Department of Anesthesiology, International Zhuang Medical Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, People’s Republic of China
| | - Songli Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology, International Zhuang Medical Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Santos JL, Petsidou E, Saraogi P, Bartsch U, Gerber AP, Seibt J. Effect of Acute Enriched Environment Exposure on Brain Oscillations and Activation of the Translation Initiation Factor 4E-BPs at Synapses across Wakefulness and Sleep in Rats. Cells 2023; 12:2320. [PMID: 37759542 PMCID: PMC10528220 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182320] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain plasticity is induced by learning during wakefulness and is consolidated during sleep. But the molecular mechanisms involved are poorly understood and their relation to experience-dependent changes in brain activity remains to be clarified. Localised mRNA translation is important for the structural changes at synapses supporting brain plasticity consolidation. The translation mTOR pathway, via phosphorylation of 4E-BPs, is known to be activate during sleep and contributes to brain plasticity, but whether this activation is specific to synapses is not known. We investigated this question using acute exposure of rats to an enriched environment (EE). We measured brain activity with EEGs and 4E-BP phosphorylation at cortical and cerebellar synapses with Western blot analyses. Sleep significantly increased the conversion of 4E-BPs to their hyperphosphorylated forms at synapses, especially after EE exposure. EE exposure increased oscillations in the alpha band during active exploration and in the theta-to-beta (4-30 Hz) range, as well as spindle density, during NREM sleep. Theta activity during exploration and NREM spindle frequency predicted changes in 4E-BP hyperphosphorylation at synapses. Hence, our results suggest a functional link between EEG and molecular markers of plasticity across wakefulness and sleep.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Lucas Santos
- Surrey Sleep Research Centre, School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XP, UK; (J.L.S.); (U.B.)
- Department of Microbial Sciences, School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK;
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Physiological Laboratory, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Evlalia Petsidou
- Undergraduate Programme in Biological Science, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK
- Postgraduate Programme in Neuroscience (MSc), Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Iroon Avenue 6, Egkomi 2371, Cyprus
| | - Pallavi Saraogi
- Undergraduate Programme in Biological Science, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK
| | - Ullrich Bartsch
- Surrey Sleep Research Centre, School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XP, UK; (J.L.S.); (U.B.)
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Care Research & Technology Centre at Imperial College London and University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK
| | - André P. Gerber
- Department of Microbial Sciences, School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK;
| | - Julie Seibt
- Surrey Sleep Research Centre, School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XP, UK; (J.L.S.); (U.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Davis RL. Learning and memory using Drosophila melanogaster: a focus on advances made in the fifth decade of research. Genetics 2023; 224:iyad085. [PMID: 37212449 PMCID: PMC10411608 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyad085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, researchers using Drosophila melanogaster have made extraordinary progress in uncovering the mysteries underlying learning and memory. This progress has been propelled by the amazing toolkit available that affords combined behavioral, molecular, electrophysiological, and systems neuroscience approaches. The arduous reconstruction of electron microscopic images resulted in a first-generation connectome of the adult and larval brain, revealing complex structural interconnections between memory-related neurons. This serves as substrate for future investigations on these connections and for building complete circuits from sensory cue detection to changes in motor behavior. Mushroom body output neurons (MBOn) were discovered, which individually forward information from discrete and non-overlapping compartments of the axons of mushroom body neurons (MBn). These neurons mirror the previously discovered tiling of mushroom body axons by inputs from dopamine neurons and have led to a model that ascribes the valence of the learning event, either appetitive or aversive, to the activity of different populations of dopamine neurons and the balance of MBOn activity in promoting avoidance or approach behavior. Studies of the calyx, which houses the MBn dendrites, have revealed a beautiful microglomeruluar organization and structural changes of synapses that occur with long-term memory (LTM) formation. Larval learning has advanced, positioning it to possibly lead in producing new conceptual insights due to its markedly simpler structure over the adult brain. Advances were made in how cAMP response element-binding protein interacts with protein kinases and other transcription factors to promote the formation of LTM. New insights were made on Orb2, a prion-like protein that forms oligomers to enhance synaptic protein synthesis required for LTM formation. Finally, Drosophila research has pioneered our understanding of the mechanisms that mediate permanent and transient active forgetting, an important function of the brain along with acquisition, consolidation, and retrieval. This was catalyzed partly by the identification of memory suppressor genes-genes whose normal function is to limit memory formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ronald L Davis
- Department of Neuroscience, Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, University of Florida, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Gebicke-Haerter PJ. The computational power of the human brain. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1220030. [PMID: 37608987 PMCID: PMC10441807 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1220030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
At the end of the 20th century, analog systems in computer science have been widely replaced by digital systems due to their higher computing power. Nevertheless, the question keeps being intriguing until now: is the brain analog or digital? Initially, the latter has been favored, considering it as a Turing machine that works like a digital computer. However, more recently, digital and analog processes have been combined to implant human behavior in robots, endowing them with artificial intelligence (AI). Therefore, we think it is timely to compare mathematical models with the biology of computation in the brain. To this end, digital and analog processes clearly identified in cellular and molecular interactions in the Central Nervous System are highlighted. But above that, we try to pinpoint reasons distinguishing in silico computation from salient features of biological computation. First, genuinely analog information processing has been observed in electrical synapses and through gap junctions, the latter both in neurons and astrocytes. Apparently opposed to that, neuronal action potentials (APs) or spikes represent clearly digital events, like the yes/no or 1/0 of a Turing machine. However, spikes are rarely uniform, but can vary in amplitude and widths, which has significant, differential effects on transmitter release at the presynaptic terminal, where notwithstanding the quantal (vesicular) release itself is digital. Conversely, at the dendritic site of the postsynaptic neuron, there are numerous analog events of computation. Moreover, synaptic transmission of information is not only neuronal, but heavily influenced by astrocytes tightly ensheathing the majority of synapses in brain (tripartite synapse). At least at this point, LTP and LTD modifying synaptic plasticity and believed to induce short and long-term memory processes including consolidation (equivalent to RAM and ROM in electronic devices) have to be discussed. The present knowledge of how the brain stores and retrieves memories includes a variety of options (e.g., neuronal network oscillations, engram cells, astrocytic syncytium). Also epigenetic features play crucial roles in memory formation and its consolidation, which necessarily guides to molecular events like gene transcription and translation. In conclusion, brain computation is not only digital or analog, or a combination of both, but encompasses features in parallel, and of higher orders of complexity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter J. Gebicke-Haerter
- Institute of Psychopharmacology, Central Institute of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hafycz JM, Strus E, Naidoo NN. Early and late chaperone intervention therapy boosts XBP1s and ADAM10, restores proteostasis, and rescues learning in Alzheimer's Disease mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.23.541973. [PMID: 37292838 PMCID: PMC10245863 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.23.541973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder that is pervasive among the aging population. Two distinct phenotypes of AD are deficits in cognition and proteostasis, including chronic activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) and aberrant Aβ production. It is unknown if restoring proteostasis by reducing chronic and aberrant UPR activation in AD can improve pathology and cognition. Here, we present data using an APP knock-in mouse model of AD and several protein chaperone supplementation paradigms, including a late-stage intervention. We show that supplementing protein chaperones systemically and locally in the hippocampus reduces PERK signaling and increases XBP1s, which is associated with increased ADAM10 and decreased Aβ42. Importantly, chaperone treatment improves cognition which is correlated with increased CREB phosphorylation and BDNF. Together, this data suggests that chaperone treatment restores proteostasis in a mouse model of AD and that this restoration is associated with improved cognition and reduced pathology. One-sentence summary Chaperone therapy in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease improves cognition by reducing chronic UPR activity.
Collapse
|
17
|
Sequeira MK, Swanson AM, Kietzman HW, Gourley SL. Cocaine and habit training cause dendritic spine rearrangement in the prelimbic cortex. iScience 2023; 26:106240. [PMID: 37153443 PMCID: PMC10156587 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Successfully navigating dynamic environments requires organisms to learn the consequences of their actions. The prelimbic prefrontal cortex (PL) formulates action-consequence memories and is modulated by addictive drugs like cocaine. We trained mice to obtain food rewards and then unexpectedly withheld reinforcement, triggering new action-consequence memory. New memory was disrupted by cocaine when delivered immediately following non-reinforcement, but not when delayed, suggesting that cocaine disrupted memory consolidation. Cocaine also rapidly inactivated cofilin, a primary regulator of the neuronal actin cytoskeleton. This observation led to the discovery that cocaine also within the time of memory consolidation elevated dendritic spine elimination and blunted spine formation rates on excitatory PL neurons, culminating in thin-type spine attrition. Training drug-naive mice to utilize inflexible response strategies also eliminated thin-type dendritic spines. Thus, cocaine may disrupt action-consequence memory, at least in part, by recapitulating neurobiological sequalae occurring in the formation of inflexible habits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle K. Sequeira
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Emory National Primate Research Center, Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Andrew M. Swanson
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Emory National Primate Research Center, Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Henry W. Kietzman
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Emory National Primate Research Center, Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Shannon L. Gourley
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Emory National Primate Research Center, Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Qureshi OA, Leake J, Delaney AJ, Killcross S, Westbrook RF, Holmes NM. Danger Changes the Way the Brain Consolidates Neutral Information; and Does So by Interacting with Processes Involved in the Encoding of That Information. J Neurosci 2023; 43:2934-2949. [PMID: 36927572 PMCID: PMC10124951 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1796-22.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
This study examined the effect of danger on consolidation of neutral information in two regions of the rat (male and female) medial temporal lobe: the perirhinal cortex (PRh) and basolateral amygdala complex (BLA). The neutral information was the association that forms between an auditory stimulus and a visual stimulus (labeled S2 and S1) across their pairings in sensory preconditioning. We show that, when the sensory preconditioning session is followed by a shocked context exposure, the danger shifts consolidation of the S2-S1 association from the PRh to the BLA; and does so by interacting with processes involved in encoding of the S2-S1 pairings. Specifically, we show that the initial S2-S1 pairing in sensory preconditioning is encoded in the BLA and not the PRh; whereas the later S2-S1 pairings are encoded in the PRh and not the BLA. When the sensory preconditioning session is followed by a context alone exposure, the BLA-dependent trace of the early S2-S1 pairings decays and the PRh-dependent trace of the later S2-S1 pairings is consolidated in memory. However, when the sensory preconditioning session is followed by a shocked context exposure, the PRh-dependent trace of the later S2-S1 pairings is suppressed and the BLA-dependent trace of the initial S2-S1 pairing is consolidated in memory. These findings are discussed with respect to mutually inhibitory interactions between the PRh and BLA, and the way that these regions support memory in other protocols, including recognition memory in people.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The perirhinal cortex (PRh) and basolateral amygdala complex (BLA) process the pairings of neutral auditory and visual stimuli in sensory preconditioning. The involvement of each region in this processing is determined by the novelty/familiarity of the stimuli as well as events that occur immediately after the preconditioning session. Novel stimuli are represented in the BLA; however, as these stimuli are repeatedly presented without consequence, they come to be represented in the PRh. Whether the BLA- or PRh-dependent representation is consolidated in memory depends on what happens next. When nothing of significance occurs, the PRh-dependent representation is consolidated and the BLA-dependent representation decays; but when danger is encountered, the PRh-dependent representation is inhibited and the BLA-dependent representation is selected for consolidation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omar A Qureshi
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales Australia, 2052
- Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec Canada, H4B 1R6
| | - Jessica Leake
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales Australia, 2052
| | - Andrew J Delaney
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Orange, New South Wales Australia, 2678
| | - Simon Killcross
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales Australia, 2052
| | - R Frederick Westbrook
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales Australia, 2052
| | - Nathan M Holmes
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales Australia, 2052
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Zawadzki P. The Ethics of Memory Modification: Personal Narratives, Relational Selves and Autonomy. NEUROETHICS-NETH 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s12152-022-09512-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
For nearly two decades, ethicists have expressed concerns that the further development and use of memory modification technologies (MMTs)—techniques allowing to intentionally and selectively alter memories—may threaten the very foundations of who we are, our personal identity, and thus pose a threat to our well-being, or even undermine our “humaneness.” This paper examines the potential ramifications of memory-modifying interventions such as changing the valence of targeted memories and selective deactivation of a particular memory as these interventions appear to be at the same time potentially both most promising clinically as well as menacing to identity. However, unlike previous works discussing the potential consequences of MMTs, this article analyzes them in the context of the narrative relational approach to personal identity and potential issues related to autonomy. I argue that such a perspective brings to light the ethical aspects and moral issues arising from the use of MMTs that have been hidden from previously adopted approaches. In particular, this perspective demonstrates how important the social context in which an individual lives is for the ethical evaluation of a given memory-modifying intervention. I conclude by suggesting that undertaking memory modifications without taking into account the social dimension of a person’s life creates the risk that she will not be able to meet one of the basic human needs—the autonomous construction and maintenance of personal identity. Based on this conclusion, I offer some reflections on the permissibility and advisability of MMTs and what these considerations suggest for the future.
Collapse
|
20
|
Xu H, Tang X, Chen J, Shi Y, Liu J, Han C, Zhu X, Zhang T, Zhou J, Miao W. Development and optimization of an effective method for evaluating habituation learning behavior in larval zebrafish. J Neurosci Methods 2023; 386:109793. [PMID: 36640926 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2023.109793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Habituation learning is a simple and conserved behavior in all organisms which could be induced by repeated stimuli. However, no standard and universal methods for training and evaluating the habituation learning behavior in larval zebrafish were available. NEW METHOD This study aims to establish effective training and detection protocols for habituation learning behavior in larval zebrafish by using the ViewPoint system. For this purpose, the detection threshold of velocity-a parameter for distinguishing the escape reaction and the spontaneous motion, the detection sensitivity-a parameter for determining the size of the identified object, the number of stimuli, and the age of larvae were optimized to obtain the best performance. RESULTS In this study, the optimized parameters were as follows: the detection threshold of velocity at 13, the luminous intensity at 8 %, the detection sensitivity at 32, the number of stimuli at 150, and the age of larvae at 6 dpf. Furthermore, we validated the utility of the established protocol by showing a consistent memory impairment induced by cycloheximide (CHX). COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHOD A similar method was reported previously. However, the equipment used in those assays, including the hardware and software, were neither standard nor universal, which might impede the extensive application of the habituation learning assays. Here, we developed an alternative method for studying the habituation learning behavior in larval zebrafish using the ViewPoint system. CONCLUSIONS Our study provided an alternative method for studying the habituation learning behavior in larval zebrafish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huifang Xu
- Otolaryngology Department, Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medical, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xuxia Tang
- Otolaryngology Department, Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medical, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Chen
- Otolaryngology Department, Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medical, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ya Shi
- Otolaryngology Department, Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medical, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Otolaryngology Department, Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medical, Hangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Han
- Hunter Biotechnology, Hangzhou, China
| | | | - Tao Zhang
- Hunter Biotechnology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinghe Zhou
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Wenyu Miao
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Hunter Biotechnology, Hangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Cohen LD, Ziv T, Ziv NE. Synapse integrity and function: Dependence on protein synthesis and identification of potential failure points. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1038614. [PMID: 36583084 PMCID: PMC9792512 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1038614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptic integrity and function depend on myriad proteins - labile molecules with finite lifetimes that need to be continually replaced with freshly synthesized copies. Here we describe experiments designed to expose synaptic (and neuronal) properties and functions that are particularly sensitive to disruptions in protein supply, identify proteins lost early upon such disruptions, and uncover potential, yet currently underappreciated failure points. We report here that acute suppressions of protein synthesis are followed within hours by reductions in spontaneous network activity levels, impaired oxidative phosphorylation and mitochondrial function, and, importantly, destabilization and loss of both excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic specializations. Conversely, gross impairments in presynaptic vesicle recycling occur over longer time scales (days), as does overt cell death. Proteomic analysis identified groups of potentially essential 'early-lost' proteins including regulators of synapse stability, proteins related to bioenergetics, fatty acid and lipid metabolism, and, unexpectedly, numerous proteins involved in Alzheimer's disease pathology and amyloid beta processing. Collectively, these findings point to neuronal excitability, energy supply and synaptic stability as early-occurring failure points under conditions of compromised supply of newly synthesized protein copies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurie D. Cohen
- Technion Faculty of Medicine, Rappaport Institute and Network Biology Research Laboratories, Haifa, Israel
| | - Tamar Ziv
- Smoler Proteomics Center, Lokey Interdisciplinary Center for Life Sciences & Engineering, Technion, Haifa, Israel
| | - Noam E. Ziv
- Technion Faculty of Medicine, Rappaport Institute and Network Biology Research Laboratories, Haifa, Israel,*Correspondence: Noam E. Ziv,
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
de Vries OT, Grasman RPPP, Kindt M, van Ast VA. Threat learning impairs subsequent associative inference. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18878. [PMID: 36344549 PMCID: PMC9640532 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-21471-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite it being widely acknowledged that the most important function of memory is to facilitate the prediction of significant events in a complex world, no studies to date have investigated how our ability to infer associations across distinct but overlapping experiences is affected by the inclusion of threat memories. To address this question, participants (n = 35) encoded neutral predictive associations (A → B). The following day these memories were reactivated by pairing B with a new aversive or neutral outcome (B → CTHREAT/NEUTRAL) while pupil dilation was measured as an index of emotional arousal. Then, again 1 day later, the accuracy of indirect associations (A → C?) was tested. Associative inferences involving a threat learning memory were impaired whereas the initial memories were retroactively strengthened, but these effects were not moderated by pupil dilation at encoding. These results imply that a healthy memory system may compartmentalize episodic information of threat, and so hinders its recall when cued only indirectly. Malfunctioning of this process may cause maladaptive linkage of negative events to distant and benign memories, and thereby contribute to the development of clinical intrusions and anxiety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivier T. de Vries
- grid.7177.60000000084992262Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Raoul P. P. P. Grasman
- grid.7177.60000000084992262Department of Psychological Methods, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Merel Kindt
- grid.7177.60000000084992262Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,grid.7177.60000000084992262Amsterdam Brain and Cognition, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Vanessa A. van Ast
- grid.7177.60000000084992262Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,grid.7177.60000000084992262Amsterdam Brain and Cognition, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Oligodendroglia are emerging players in several forms of learning and memory. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1148. [PMID: 36309567 PMCID: PMC9617857 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-04116-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptic plasticity is the fundamental cellular mechanism of learning and memory, but recent research reveals that myelin-forming glia, oligodendrocytes (OL), are also involved. They contribute in ways that synaptic plasticity cannot, and the findings have not been integrated into the established conceptual framework used in the field of learning and memory. OLs and their progenitors are involved in long-term memory, memory consolidation, working memory, and recall in associative learning. They also contribute to short-term memory and non-associative learning by affecting synaptic transmission, intrinsic excitability of axons, and neural oscillations. Oligodendroglial involvement expands the field beyond synaptic plasticity to system-wide network function, where precise spike time arrival and neural oscillations are critical in information processing, storage, and retrieval. A Perspective highlights current evidence that supports oligodendrocytes and their progenitors’ involvement in cognition and proposes that our understanding of learning and memory can be expanded beyond the classic view of synaptic plasticity to a system-wide network function.
Collapse
|
24
|
Povarnina PY, Volkova AA, Vorontsova ON, Kamensky AA, Gudasheva TA, Seredenin SB. A Low-Molecular-Weight BDNF Mimetic, Dipeptide GSB-214, Prevents Memory Impairment in Rat Models of Alzheimer's Disease. Acta Naturae 2022; 14:94-100. [PMID: 36694902 PMCID: PMC9844091 DOI: 10.32607/actanaturae.11755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is known to be involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the pharmacological use of full-length neurotrophin is limited, because of its macromolecular protein nature. A dimeric dipeptide mimetic of the BDNF loop 1, bis-(N-monosuccinyl-L-methionyl-L-serine) heptamethylene diamide (GSB-214), was designed at the Zakusov Research Institute of Pharmacology. GSB-214 activates TrkB, PI3K/AKT, and PLC-γ1 in vitro. GSB-214 exhibited a neuroprotective activity during middle cerebral artery occlusion in rats when administered intraperitoneally (i.p.) at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg and improved memory in the novel object recognition test (0.1 and 1.0 mg/kg, i.p.). In the present study, we investigated the effects of GSB-214 on memory in the scopolamine- and steptozotocin-induced AD models, with reference to activation of TrkB receptors. AD was modeled in rats using a chronic i.p. scopolamine injection or a single streptozotocin injection into the cerebral ventricles. GSB-214 was administered within 10 days after the exposure to scopolamine at doses of 0.05, 0.1, and 1 mg/kg (i.p.) or within 14 days after the exposure to streptozotocin at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg (i.p.). The effect of the dipeptide was evaluated in the novel object recognition test; K252A, a selective inhibitor of tyrosine kinase receptors, was used to reveal a dependence between the mnemotropic action and Trk receptors. GSB-214 at doses of 0.05 and 0.1 mg/kg statistically significantly prevented scopolamine-induced long-term memory impairment, while not affecting short-term memory. In the streptozotocin-induced model, GSB-214 completely eliminated the impairment of short-term memory. No mnemotropic effect of GSB-214 was registered when Trk receptors were inhibited by K252A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P. Yu. Povarnina
- Research Zakusov Institute of Pharmacology, Moscow, 125315 Russia
| | - A. A. Volkova
- Research Zakusov Institute of Pharmacology, Moscow, 125315 Russia
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Biology, Moscow, 119991 Russia
| | - O. N. Vorontsova
- Research Zakusov Institute of Pharmacology, Moscow, 125315 Russia
| | - A. A. Kamensky
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Biology, Moscow, 119991 Russia
| | - T. A. Gudasheva
- Research Zakusov Institute of Pharmacology, Moscow, 125315 Russia
| | - S. B. Seredenin
- Research Zakusov Institute of Pharmacology, Moscow, 125315 Russia
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Mohandasan R, Thakare M, Sunke S, Iqbal FM, Sridharan M, Das G. Enhanced olfactory memory detection in trap-design Y-mazes allows the study of imperceptible memory traces in Drosophila. Learn Mem 2022; 29:355-366. [PMID: 36180129 PMCID: PMC9536757 DOI: 10.1101/lm.053545.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The neural basis of behavior is identified by systematically manipulating the activity of specific neurons and screening for loss or gain of phenotype. Therefore, robust, high-scoring behavioral assays are necessary for determining the neural circuits of novel behaviors. We report a simple Y-maze design for Drosophila olfactory learning and memory assay. Memory scores in our Y-mazes are considerably better and longer-lasting than scores obtained with commonly used T-mazes. Our results suggest that trapping flies to an odor choice in a Y-maze could improve scores. We postulated that the improved scores could reveal previously undetectable memory traces, enabling the study of underlying neural mechanisms. Indeed, we identified unreported protein synthesis-dependent long-term memories (LTMs), reinforced by ingestion of (1) an aversive compound and (2) a sweet but nonnutritious sugar, both 24 h after training. We also used Y-mazes to probe how using a greater reward may change memory dynamics. Our findings predict that a greater sugar reward may extend existing memory traces or reinforce additional novel ones.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Radhika Mohandasan
- Brain and Feeding Behavior Laboratory, National Centre for Cell Science, S.P. Pune University Campus, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411007, India
- Savitribai Phule Pune University, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411007, India
| | - Manikrao Thakare
- Brain and Feeding Behavior Laboratory, National Centre for Cell Science, S.P. Pune University Campus, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411007, India
- Savitribai Phule Pune University, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411007, India
| | - Suhas Sunke
- Brain and Feeding Behavior Laboratory, National Centre for Cell Science, S.P. Pune University Campus, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411007, India
| | - Fathima Mukthar Iqbal
- Brain and Feeding Behavior Laboratory, National Centre for Cell Science, S.P. Pune University Campus, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411007, India
| | - Madhav Sridharan
- Brain and Feeding Behavior Laboratory, National Centre for Cell Science, S.P. Pune University Campus, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411007, India
| | - Gaurav Das
- Brain and Feeding Behavior Laboratory, National Centre for Cell Science, S.P. Pune University Campus, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411007, India
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Infection, Learning, and Memory: Focus on Immune Activation and Aversive Conditioning. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 142:104898. [PMID: 36183862 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Here we review the effects of immune activation primarily via lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a cell wall component of Gram-negative bacteria, on hippocampal and non-hippocampal-dependent learning and memory. Rodent studies have found that LPS alters both the acquisition and consolidation of aversive learning and memory, such as those evoking evolutionarily adaptive responses like fear and disgust. The inhibitory effects of LPS on the acquisition and consolidation of contextual fear memory are discussed. LPS-induced alterations in the acquisition of taste and place-related conditioned disgust memory within bottle preference tasks and taste reactivity tests (taste-related), in addition to conditioned context avoidance tasks and the anticipatory nausea paradigm (place-related), are highlighted. Further, conditioned disgust memory consolidation may also be influenced by LPS-induced effects. Growing evidence suggests a central role of immune activation, especially pro-inflammatory cytokine activity, in eliciting the effects described here. Understanding how infection-induced immune activation alters learning and memory is increasingly important as bacterial and viral infections are found to present a risk of learning and memory impairment.
Collapse
|
27
|
Sardoo AM, Zhang S, Ferraro TN, Keck TM, Chen Y. Decoding brain memory formation by single-cell RNA sequencing. Brief Bioinform 2022; 23:6713514. [PMID: 36156112 PMCID: PMC9677489 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbac412] [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: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
To understand how distinct memories are formed and stored in the brain is an important and fundamental question in neuroscience and computational biology. A population of neurons, termed engram cells, represents the physiological manifestation of a specific memory trace and is characterized by dynamic changes in gene expression, which in turn alters the synaptic connectivity and excitability of these cells. Recent applications of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) are promising approaches for delineating the dynamic expression profiles in these subsets of neurons, and thus understanding memory-specific genes, their combinatorial patterns and regulatory networks. The aim of this article is to review and discuss the experimental and computational procedures of sc/snRNA-seq, new studies of molecular mechanisms of memory aided by sc/snRNA-seq in human brain diseases and related mouse models, and computational challenges in understanding the regulatory mechanisms underlying long-term memory formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atlas M Sardoo
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, USA
| | - Shaoqiang Zhang
- College of Computer and Information Engineering, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Thomas N Ferraro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, NJ 08103, USA
| | - Thomas M Keck
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, USA,Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, USA
| | - Yong Chen
- Corresponding author. Yong Chen, Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, USA. Tel.: +1 856 256 4500; E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Gold PE. Revisiting and revising memory consolidation: Personal reflections on the research legacy of Ivan Izquierdo. Neuroscience 2022; 497:4-13. [PMID: 35667494 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.05.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Two important themes in Ivan Izquierdo's research each offered both answers and questions about the topic of memory formation and maintenance. The first theme provided evidence supporting the view that short- and long-term memory were distinct processes and could be selectively modulated by several treatments, with some affecting only short-term, others only affecting long-term memory, and still others affecting both. Over many years, Izquierdo's laboratory documented molecular responses across time after training obtaining results that showed differences as well as similarities in the biochemical changes during the first 1-2 hours and the next 4-6 hours after training, i.e., during the transition from short- to long-term memory. This work clarified the biological underpinnings of the memory processes. The second theme described waves of susceptibility of memory to enhancing and impairing treatments after time, a biphasic profile that contrasted with earlier monotonic decreases in the efficacy of memory modulating treatments as a function of time between training and treatment. Remarkably, these waves of susceptibility to modification were accompanied by biphasic changes in molecular measures at similar times after training. Remarkably, some of the molecular players exhibited persistent changes after training, with increases in levels lasting days following the training experience. These persistent molecular changes may reveal a biological basis for the dynamic nature of memories seen long after the initial memory is consolidated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul E Gold
- Department of Biology, Syracuse, NY, 13224, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Hafycz JM, Strus E, Naidoo N. Reducing ER stress with chaperone therapy reverses sleep fragmentation and cognitive decline in aged mice. Aging Cell 2022; 21:e13598. [PMID: 35488730 PMCID: PMC9197403 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
As the aging population grows, the need to understand age-related changes in health is vital. Two prominent behavioral changes that occur with age are disrupted sleep and impaired cognition. Sleep disruptions lead to perturbations in proteostasis and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in mice. Further, consolidated sleep and protein synthesis are necessary for memory formation. With age, the molecular mechanisms that relieve cellular stress and ensure proper protein folding become less efficient. It is unclear if a causal relationship links proteostasis, sleep quality, and cognition in aging. Here, we used a mouse model of aging to determine if supplementing chaperone levels reduces ER stress and improves sleep quality and memory. We administered the chemical chaperone 4-phenyl butyrate (PBA) to aged and young mice, and monitored sleep and cognitive behavior. We found that chaperone treatment consolidates sleep and wake, and improves learning in aged mice. These data correlate with reduced ER stress in the cortex and hippocampus of aged mice. Chaperone treatment increased p-CREB, which is involved in memory formation and synaptic plasticity, in hippocampi of chaperone-treated aged mice. Hippocampal overexpression of the endogenous chaperone, binding immunoglobulin protein (BiP), improved cognition, reduced ER stress, and increased p-CREB in aged mice, suggesting that supplementing BiP levels are sufficient to restore some cognitive function. Together, these results indicate that restoring proteostasis improves sleep and cognition in a wild-type mouse model of aging. The implications of these results could have an impact on the development of therapies to improve health span across the aging population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M. Hafycz
- Chronobiology and Sleep Institute and Department of MedicinePerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Ewa Strus
- Chronobiology and Sleep Institute and Department of MedicinePerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Nirinjini Naidoo
- Chronobiology and Sleep Institute and Department of MedicinePerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Atta-Ur-Rahman. Protein Folding and Molecular Basis of Memory. Curr Med Chem 2022; 29:4317-4319. [PMID: 35532256 DOI: 10.2174/0929867329666220508173020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Atta-Ur-Rahman
- International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, H. E. J. Research Institute of Chemistry, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Piątkowska-Chmiel I, Gawrońska-Grzywacz M, Popiołek Ł, Herbet M, Dudka J. The novel adamantane derivatives as potential mediators of inflammation and neural plasticity in diabetes mice with cognitive impairment. Sci Rep 2022; 12:6708. [PMID: 35468904 PMCID: PMC9035983 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-10187-y] [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: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes is a chronic disease leading to memory difficulties and deterioration of learning abilities. The previous studies showed that modulation of inflammatory pathways in the diabetic brain may reduce dysfunction or cell death in brain areas which are important for control of cognitive function. In the present study, we investigated the neuroprotective actions of newly synthesized adamantane derivatives on diabetes-induced cognitive impairment in mice. Our study relied on the fact that both vildagliptin and saxagliptin belong to DPP4 inhibitors and, contain adamantanyl group. Efficacy of tested compounds at reversing diabetes-induced different types of memory impairment was evaluated with the use of selected behavioural tests. The following neuroinflammatory indicators were also analyzed: neuroinflammatory indicators and the expression of genes involved in the inflammatory response of brain (Cav1, Bdnf). Our study demonstrated that new adamantane derivatives, similarly to DPP4 inhibitors, can restrict diabetes-induced cognitive deficits. We demonstrated that the overexpression of GLP-1-glucagon-like peptide as well as Bdnf, Cav1 genes translate into central blockade of pro-inflammatory synthesis of cytokines and significantly improvement on memory performance in diabetes mice. Newly synthesized adamantane derivatives might have important roles in prevention and treatment of cognitive impairment by inflammatory events in patients with diabetes or related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Piątkowska-Chmiel
- Chair and Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, 8b Jaczewskiego Street, 20-090, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Monika Gawrońska-Grzywacz
- Chair and Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, 8b Jaczewskiego Street, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Łukasz Popiołek
- Chair and Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodźki Street, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Mariola Herbet
- Chair and Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, 8b Jaczewskiego Street, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Jarosław Dudka
- Chair and Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, 8b Jaczewskiego Street, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Bryant KG, Singh B, Barker JM. Reinforcement History Dependent Effects of Low Dose Ethanol on Reward Motivation in Male and Female Mice. Front Behav Neurosci 2022; 16:875890. [PMID: 35481242 PMCID: PMC9036521 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.875890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use disorders (AUDs) are more prevalent in men than in women, though AUD diagnoses in women are growing rapidly, making an understanding of sex differences in alcohol-related behaviors increasingly important. The development of AUDs involves the transition from casual, low levels of alcohol drinking to higher, maladaptive levels. The ability of low dose alcohol to drive reward and drug seeking may differ in males and females, and this could underlie differences in susceptibility to AUD. In this study we sought to determine whether a history of chronic, low dose ethanol exposure (0.5 g/kg; i.p.) could drive sucrose reward seeking and motivation, and whether this differed between male and female mice. Adult mice were trained to lever press for a liquid sucrose reward on two reinforcement schedules: a random interval (RI) schedule and a variable ratio (VR) schedule. After training, mice were tested on each of these levers for reward motivation using a progressive ratio test. We found that a history of low dose ethanol exposure increased sucrose reward motivation in male mice, but only on the RI lever and only when exposure occurred proximal to learning. Female mice were more motivated for sucrose on the RI lever than the VR lever regardless of ethanol exposure condition. These findings indicate that training on different reinforcement schedules affects reward motivation. Further, we show that males are more susceptible to the effects of low dose ethanol on sucrose reward motivation than females. These data broaden our understanding of sex differences in reward seeking as a result of ethanol exposure.
Collapse
|
33
|
Assouline A, Mendelsohn A, Reshef A. Memory-directed acupuncture as a neuromodulatory treatment for PTSD: Theory, clinical model and case studies. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:110. [PMID: 35296636 PMCID: PMC8927413 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-01876-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) poses an ongoing challenge to society, to health systems, and to the trauma victims themselves. Today PTSD is often considered an incurable chronic problem that lacks effective treatment. While PTSD is closely related to memory, it also affects many physiological systems. PTSD is usually treated with medications and psychotherapy with moderate success, leaving a substantial proportion of patients with enduring distress and disability. Therefore, a search for better treatment options is vital. In this paper, we propose a model in which a conversation-based technique is integrated with bodily manipulation through acupuncture. This approach first emerged in clinical experience showing intriguing results from treating PTSD patients using acupuncture as a main strategy. Its theoretical foundations derive from the clinic and rely on contemporary neuroscience's understanding of memory consolidation and reconsolidation processes. Research shows that acupuncture can have potentially positive effects at three levels: (a) achieving a balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic neural activity; (b) reducing activation in the limbic system, hence inducing a calming effect; (c) reshaping the functional connectivity map within important and relevant cortical regions that encompass the default-mode network. We suggest that coupling traumatic memory retrieval leading to reconsolidation, combined with acupuncture, offers considerable potential for positive clinical improvement in patients with PTSD. This may explain the positive results of the described case studies and can pave the path for future advances in research and treatment in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Assouline
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
- Institute for Information Processing and Decision Making, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Avi Mendelsohn
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Institute for Information Processing and Decision Making, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Alon Reshef
- Ha'Emek Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, Afula, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Nishioka M, Kamada T, Nakata A, Shiokawa N, Kinoshita A, Hata T. Intra-dorsal striatal acetylcholine M1 but not dopaminergic D1 or glutamatergic NMDA receptor antagonists inhibit consolidation of duration memory in interval timing. Behav Brain Res 2022; 419:113669. [PMID: 34800548 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The striatal beat frequency model assumes that striatal medium spiny neurons encode duration via synaptic plasticity. Muscarinic 1 (M1) cholinergic receptors as well as dopamine and glutamate receptors are important for neural plasticity in the dorsal striatum. Therefore, we investigated the effect of inhibiting these receptors on the formation of duration memory. After sufficient training in a peak interval (PI)-20-s procedure, rats were administered a single or mixed infusion of a selective antagonist for the dopamine D1 receptor (SCH23390, 0.5 µg per side), N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA)-type glutamate receptor (D-AP5, 3 µg), or M1 receptor (pirenzepine, 10 µg) bilaterally in the dorsal striatum, immediately before initiating a PI-40 s session (shift session). The next day, the rats were tested for new duration memory (40 s) in a session in which no lever presses were reinforced (test session). In the shift session, the performance was comparable irrespective of the drug injected. However, in the test session, the mean peak time (an index of duration memory) of the M1 + NMDA co-blockade group, but not of the D1 + NMDA co-blockade group, was lower than that of the control group (Experiments 1 and 2). In Experiment 3, the effect of the co-blockade of M1 and NMDA receptors was replicated. Moreover, sole blockade of M1 receptors induced the same effect as M1 and NMDA blockade. These results suggest that in the dorsal striatum, the M1 receptor, but not the D1 or NMDA receptors, is involved in the consolidation of duration memory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masahiko Nishioka
- Graduate School of Psychology, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Kyoto 610-0394, Japan.
| | - Taisuke Kamada
- Graduate School of Psychology, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Kyoto 610-0394, Japan
| | - Atsushi Nakata
- Faculty of Psychology, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Kyoto 610-0394, Japan
| | - Naoko Shiokawa
- Faculty of Psychology, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Kyoto 610-0394, Japan
| | - Aoi Kinoshita
- Faculty of Psychology, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Kyoto 610-0394, Japan
| | - Toshimichi Hata
- Faculty of Psychology, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Kyoto 610-0394, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Shrestha P, Klann E. Spatiotemporally resolved protein synthesis as a molecular framework for memory consolidation. Trends Neurosci 2022; 45:297-311. [PMID: 35184897 PMCID: PMC8930706 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
De novo protein synthesis is required for long-term memory consolidation. Dynamic regulation of protein synthesis occurs via a complex interplay of translation factors and modulators. Many components of the protein synthesis machinery have been targeted either pharmacologically or genetically to establish its requirement for memory. The combination of ligand/light-gating and genetic strategies, that is, chemogenetics and optogenetics, has begun to reveal the spatiotemporal resolution of protein synthesis in specific cell types during memory consolidation. This review summarizes current knowledge of the macroscopic and microscopic neural substrates for protein synthesis in memory consolidation. In addition, we highlight future directions for determining the localization and timing of de novo protein synthesis for memory consolidation with tools that permit unprecedented spatiotemporal precision.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prerana Shrestha
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA.
| | - Eric Klann
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY 10012, USA; NYU Neuroscience Institute, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Moore AR. Editorial: Genetic, Epigenetic, and Epitranscriptomic Mechanisms Associated With Learning and Memory. Front Genet 2022; 12:835719. [PMID: 35096027 PMCID: PMC8795680 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.835719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
37
|
Pang N, Liu Z, Lin Z, Chen X, Liu X, Pan M, Shi K, Xiao Y, Xu L. Fast identification and quantification of c-Fos protein using you-only-look-once-v5. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1011296. [PMID: 36213931 PMCID: PMC9537349 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1011296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In neuroscience, protein activity characterizes neuronal excitability in response to a diverse array of external stimuli and represents the cell state throughout the development of brain diseases. Importantly, it is necessary to characterize the proteins involved in disease progression, nuclear function determination, stimulation method effect, and other aspects. Therefore, the quantification of protein activity is indispensable in neuroscience. Currently, ImageJ software and manual counting are two of the most commonly used methods to quantify proteins. To improve the efficiency of quantitative protein statistics, the you-only-look-once-v5 (YOLOv5) model was proposed. In this study, c-Fos immunofluorescence images data set as an example to verify the efficacy of the system using protein quantitative statistics. The results indicate that YOLOv5 was less time-consuming or obtained higher accuracy than other methods (time: ImageJ software: 80.12 ± 1.67 s, manual counting: 3.41 ± 0.25 s, YOLOv5: 0.0251 ± 0.0003 s, p < 0.0001, n = 83; simple linear regression equation: ImageJ software: Y = 1.013 × X + 0.776, R 2 = 0.837; manual counting: Y = 1.0*X + 0, R 2 = 1; YOLOv5: Y = 0.9730*X + 0.3821, R 2 = 0.933, n = 130). The findings suggest that the YOLOv5 algorithm provides feasible methods for quantitative statistical analysis of proteins and has good potential for application in detecting target proteins in neuroscience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Na Pang
- The College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China.,Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zihao Liu
- Shenzhen Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhengrong Lin
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiufang Liu
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Min Pan
- Shenzhen Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Keke Shi
- Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yang Xiao
- National Innovation Center for Advanced Medical Devices, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lisheng Xu
- The College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Image Computing, Ministry of Education, Shenyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Anastasio TJ. Deriving testable hypotheses through an analogy between individual and collective memory. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2022; 274:99-128. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2022.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
39
|
Noyes NC, Phan A, Davis RL. Memory suppressor genes: Modulating acquisition, consolidation, and forgetting. Neuron 2021; 109:3211-3227. [PMID: 34450024 PMCID: PMC8542634 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2021.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The brain has a remarkable but underappreciated capacity to limit memory formation and expression. The term "memory suppressor gene" was coined in 1998 as an attempt to explain emerging reports that some genes appeared to limit memory. At that time, only a handful of memory suppressor genes were known, and they were understood to work by limiting cAMP-dependent consolidation. In the intervening decades, almost 100 memory suppressor genes with diverse functions have been discovered that affect not only consolidation but also acquisition and forgetting. Here we highlight the surprising extent to which biological limits are placed on memory formation through reviewing the literature on memory suppressor genes. In this review, we present memory suppressors within the framework of their actions on different memory operations: acquisition, consolidation, and forgetting. This is followed by a discussion of the reasons why there may be a biological need to limit memory formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel C Noyes
- Department of Neuroscience, Scripps Research Institute Florida, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Anna Phan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, 11355 Saskatchewan Drive, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Ronald L Davis
- Department of Neuroscience, Scripps Research Institute Florida, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
CREBA and CREBB in two identified neurons gate long-term memory formation in Drosophila. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2100624118. [PMID: 34507985 PMCID: PMC8449312 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2100624118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Episodic events are frequently consolidated into labile memory but are not necessarily transferred to persistent long-term memory (LTM). Regulatory mechanisms leading to LTM formation are poorly understood, however, especially at the resolution of identified neurons. Here, we demonstrate enhanced LTM following aversive olfactory conditioning in Drosophila when the transcription factor cyclic AMP response element binding protein A (CREBA) is induced in just two dorsal-anterior-lateral (DAL) neurons. Our experiments show that this process is regulated by protein-gene interactions in DAL neurons: (1) crebA transcription is induced by training and repressed by crebB overexpression, (2) CREBA bidirectionally modulates LTM formation, (3) crebA overexpression enhances training-induced gene transcription, and (4) increasing membrane excitability enhances LTM formation and gene expression. These findings suggest that activity-dependent gene expression in DAL neurons during LTM formation is regulated by CREB proteins.
Collapse
|
41
|
Traniello IM, Robinson GE. Neural and Molecular Mechanisms of Biological Embedding of Social Interactions. Annu Rev Neurosci 2021; 44:109-128. [PMID: 34236891 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-neuro-092820-012959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Animals operate in complex environments, and salient social information is encoded in the nervous system and then processed to initiate adaptive behavior. This encoding involves biological embedding, the process by which social experience affects the brain to influence future behavior. Biological embedding is an important conceptual framework for understanding social decision-making in the brain, as it encompasses multiple levels of organization that regulate how information is encoded and used to modify behavior. The framework we emphasize here is that social stimuli provoke short-term changes in neural activity that lead to changes in gene expression on longer timescales. This process, simplified-neurons are for today and genes are for tomorrow-enables the assessment of the valence of a social interaction, an appropriate and rapid response, and subsequent modification of neural circuitry to change future behavioral inclinations in anticipation of environmental changes. We review recent research on the neural and molecular basis of biological embedding in the context of social interactions, with a special focus on the honeybee.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ian M Traniello
- Neuroscience Program and Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA;
| | - Gene E Robinson
- Neuroscience Program and Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA; .,Department of Entomology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Gostolupce D, Iordanova MD, Lay BPP. Mechanisms of higher-order learning in the amygdala. Behav Brain Res 2021; 414:113435. [PMID: 34197867 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Adaptive behaviour is under the potent control of environmental cues. Such cues can acquire value by virtue of their associations with outcomes of motivational significance, be they appetitive or aversive. There are at least two ways through which an environmental cue can acquire value, through first-order and higher-order conditioning. In first-order conditioning, a neutral cue is directly paired with an outcome of motivational significance. In higher-order conditioning, a cue is indirectly associated with motivational events via a directly conditioned first-order stimulus. The present article reviews some of the associations that support learning in first- and higher-order conditioning, as well as the role of the BLA and the molecular mechanisms involved in these two types of learning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dilara Gostolupce
- Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mihaela D Iordanova
- Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - Belinda P P Lay
- Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
The m 6A-epitranscriptome in brain plasticity, learning and memory. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 125:110-121. [PMID: 34053866 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Activity-dependent gene expression and protein translation underlie the ability of neurons to dynamically adjust their synaptic strength in response to sensory experience and during learning. The emerging field of epitranscriptomics (RNA modifications) has rapidly shifted our views on the mechanisms that regulate gene expression. Among hundreds of biochemical modifications on RNA, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant reversible mRNA modification in the brain. Its dynamic nature and ability to regulate all aspects of mRNA processing have positioned m6A as an important and versatile regulator of nervous system functions, including neuronal plasticity, learning and memory. In this review, we summarise recent experimental evidence that supports the role of m6A signalling in learning and memory, as well as providing an overview of the underlying molecular mechanisms in neurons. We also discuss the consequences of perturbed m6A signalling and/or its regulatory networks which are increasingly being linked to various cognitive disorders in humans.
Collapse
|
44
|
Boussard A, Fessel A, Oettmeier C, Briard L, Döbereiner HG, Dussutour A. Adaptive behaviour and learning in slime moulds: the role of oscillations. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20190757. [PMID: 33487112 PMCID: PMC7935053 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2019.0757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The slime mould Physarum polycephalum, an aneural organism, uses information from previous experiences to adjust its behaviour, but the mechanisms by which this is accomplished remain unknown. This article examines the possible role of oscillations in learning and memory in slime moulds. Slime moulds share surprising similarities with the network of synaptic connections in animal brains. First, their topology derives from a network of interconnected, vein-like tubes in which signalling molecules are transported. Second, network motility, which generates slime mould behaviour, is driven by distinct oscillations that organize into spatio-temporal wave patterns. Likewise, neural activity in the brain is organized in a variety of oscillations characterized by different frequencies. Interestingly, the oscillating networks of slime moulds are not precursors of nervous systems but, rather, an alternative architecture. Here, we argue that comparable information-processing operations can be realized on different architectures sharing similar oscillatory properties. After describing learning abilities and oscillatory activities of P. polycephalum, we explore the relation between network oscillations and learning, and evaluate the organism's global architecture with respect to information-processing potential. We hypothesize that, as in the brain, modulation of spontaneous oscillations may sustain learning in slime mould. This article is part of the theme issue 'Basal cognition: conceptual tools and the view from the single cell'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aurèle Boussard
- Research Centre on Animal Cognition (CRCA), Centre for Integrative Biology (CBI), Toulouse University, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse 31062, France
| | - Adrian Fessel
- Institut für Biophysik, Universität Bremen, Otto-Hahn-Allee 1, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Christina Oettmeier
- Institut für Biophysik, Universität Bremen, Otto-Hahn-Allee 1, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Léa Briard
- Research Centre on Animal Cognition (CRCA), Centre for Integrative Biology (CBI), Toulouse University, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse 31062, France
| | | | - Audrey Dussutour
- Research Centre on Animal Cognition (CRCA), Centre for Integrative Biology (CBI), Toulouse University, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse 31062, France
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Tobore TO. On the theory of mental representation block. a novel perspective on learning and behavior. Commun Integr Biol 2021; 14:41-50. [PMID: 33796209 PMCID: PMC7971303 DOI: 10.1080/19420889.2021.1898752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms behind memory, learning, and behavior is crucial to human development and significant research has been done in this area. Classical and operant conditioning and other theories of learning have elucidated different mechanisms of learning and how it modulates behavior. Even with advances in this area, questions remain on how to unlearn faulty ideas or extinguish maladaptive behaviors. In this paper, a novel theory to improve our understanding of this area is proposed. The theory proposes that as a consequence of the brain's energy efficiency evolutionary adaptations, all learning following memory consolidation, reconsolidation, and repeated reinforcements or strengthening over time, results in a phenomenon called mental representation block. The implications of this block on learning and behavior are significant and broad and include cognitive biases, belief in a creator or God, close-mindedness, dogmatism, physician misdiagnosis, racism, homophobia, and transphobia, susceptibility to deception and indoctrination, hate and love, artificial intelligence and creativity.
Collapse
|
46
|
DNA Methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) Shapes Neuronal Activity of Human iPSC-Derived Glutamatergic Cortical Neurons. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22042034. [PMID: 33670788 PMCID: PMC7922860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22042034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms are emerging key players for the regulation of brain function, synaptic activity, and the formation of neuronal engrams in health and disease. As one important epigenetic mechanism of transcriptional control, DNA methylation was reported to distinctively modulate synaptic activity in excitatory and inhibitory cortical neurons in mice. Since DNA methylation signatures are responsive to neuronal activity, DNA methylation seems to contribute to the neuron's capacity to adapt to and integrate changing activity patterns, being crucial for the plasticity and functionality of neuronal circuits. Since most studies addressing the role of DNA methylation in the regulation of synaptic function were conducted in mice or murine neurons, we here asked whether this functional implication applies to human neurons as well. To this end, we performed calcium imaging in human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived excitatory cortical neurons forming synaptic contacts and neuronal networks in vitro. Treatment with DNMT1 siRNA that diminishs the expression of the DNA (cytosine-5)-methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) was conducted to investigate the functional relevance of DNMT1 as one of the main enzymes executing DNA methylations in the context of neuronal activity modulation. We observed a lowered proportion of actively firing neurons upon DNMT1-knockdown in these iPSC-derived excitatory neurons, pointing to a correlation of DNMT1-activity and synaptic transmission. Thus, our experiments suggest that DNMT1 decreases synaptic activity of human glutamatergic neurons and underline the relevance of epigenetic regulation of synaptic function also in human excitatory neurons.
Collapse
|
47
|
Zhao F, Wang C, Zhu X. Isoform-specific roles of AMPK catalytic α subunits in Alzheimer's disease. J Clin Invest 2021; 130:3403-3405. [PMID: 32452835 DOI: 10.1172/jci137908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
AMPK is a heterotrimeric complex that serves as a major sensor of energy status in eukaryotic cells. Accumulating evidence depicts a complex role of dysregulated AMPK signaling in Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this issue of the JCI, Zimmermann et al. report on their investigation of AD-specific differential expression of AMPKα1 and AMPKα2 isoforms of the catalytic subunit and demonstrate that genetic reduction of AMPKα1, but not AMPKα2, rescued cognitive decline in AD mouse models. These findings reveal an isoform-specific role of AMPKα in the pathogenesis of AD, which likely provides a more precise target for future therapeutic development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fanpeng Zhao
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Chunyu Wang
- Department of Neurology and.,Department of Medical Genetics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiongwei Zhu
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Brito DVC, Gulmez Karaca K, Kupke J, Frank L, Oliveira AMM. MeCP2 gates spatial learning-induced alternative splicing events in the mouse hippocampus. Mol Brain 2020; 13:156. [PMID: 33203444 PMCID: PMC7672966 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-020-00695-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term memory formation is supported by functional and structural changes of neuronal networks, which rely on de novo gene transcription and protein synthesis. The modulation of the neuronal transcriptome in response to learning depends on transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms. DNA methylation writers and readers regulate the activity-dependent genomic program required for memory consolidation. The most abundant DNA methylation reader, the Methyl CpG binding domain protein 2 (MeCP2), has been shown to regulate alternative splicing, but whether it establishes splicing events important for memory consolidation has not been investigated. In this study, we identified the alternative splicing profile of the mouse hippocampus in basal conditions and after a spatial learning experience, and investigated the requirement of MeCP2 for these processes. We observed that spatial learning triggers a wide-range of alternative splicing events in transcripts associated with structural and functional remodeling and that virus-mediated knockdown of MeCP2 impairs learning-dependent post-transcriptional responses of mature hippocampal neurons. Furthermore, we found that MeCP2 preferentially affected the splicing modalities intron retention and exon skipping and guided the alternative splicing of distinct set of genes in baseline conditions and after learning. Lastly, comparative analysis of the MeCP2-regulated transcriptome with the alternatively spliced mRNA pool, revealed that MeCP2 disruption alters the relative abundance of alternatively spliced isoforms without affecting the overall mRNA levels. Taken together, our findings reveal that adult hippocampal MeCP2 is required to finetune alternative splicing events in basal conditions, as well as in response to spatial learning. This study provides new insight into how MeCP2 regulates brain function, particularly cognitive abilities, and sheds light onto the pathophysiological mechanisms of Rett syndrome, that is characterized by intellectual disability and caused by mutations in the Mecp2 gene.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David V C Brito
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Centre for Neurosciences (IZN), Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 366, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kubra Gulmez Karaca
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Centre for Neurosciences (IZN), Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 366, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, 6525 EN, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Janina Kupke
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Centre for Neurosciences (IZN), Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 366, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lukas Frank
- Division of Chromatin Networks, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and Bioquant (Heidelberg University), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ana M M Oliveira
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Centre for Neurosciences (IZN), Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 366, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Smith SG, Haynes KA, Hegde AN. Degradation of Transcriptional Repressor ATF4 during Long-Term Synaptic Plasticity. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228543. [PMID: 33198401 PMCID: PMC7697267 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Maintenance of long-term synaptic plasticity requires gene expression mediated by cAMP-responsive element binding protein (CREB). Gene expression driven by CREB can commence only if the inhibition by a transcriptional repressor activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4; also known as CREB2) is relieved. Previous research showed that the removal of ATF4 occurs through ubiquitin-proteasome-mediated proteolysis. Using chemically induced hippocampal long-term potentiation (cLTP) as a model system, we investigate the mechanisms that control ATF4 degradation. We observed that ATF4 phosphorylated at serine-219 increases upon induction of cLTP and decreases about 30 min thereafter. Proteasome inhibitor β-lactone prevents the decrease in ATF4. We found that the phosphorylation of ATF4 is mediated by cAMP-dependent protein kinase. Our initial experiments towards the identification of the ligase that mediates ubiquitination of ATF4 revealed a possible role for β-transducin repeat containing protein (β-TrCP). Regulation of ATF4 degradation is likely to be a mechanism for determining the threshold for gene expression underlying maintenance of long-term synaptic plasticity and by extension, long-term memory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ashok N. Hegde
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +(478)-445-3464; Fax: +(478)-445-5290
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Park AJ, Shetty MS, Baraban JM, Abel T. Selective role of the translin/trax RNase complex in hippocampal synaptic plasticity. Mol Brain 2020; 13:145. [PMID: 33172471 PMCID: PMC7653721 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-020-00691-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Activity-dependent local protein synthesis is critical for synapse-specific, persistent plasticity. Abnormalities in local protein synthesis have been implicated in psychiatric disorders. We have recently identified the translin/trax microRNA-degrading enzyme as a novel mediator of protein synthesis at activated synapses. Additionally, translin knockout (KO) mice, which lack translin/trax, exhibit some of the behavioral abnormalities found in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome (fragile X mental retardation protein-FMRP-KO mice). Therefore, identifying signaling pathways interacting with translin/trax to support persistent synaptic plasticity is a translationally relevant goal. Here, as a first step to achieve this goal, we have assessed the requirement of translin/trax for multiple hippocampal synaptic plasticity paradigms that rely on distinct molecular mechanisms. We found that mice lacking translin/trax exhibited selective impairment in a form of persistent hippocampal plasticity, which requires postsynaptic protein kinase A (PKA) activity. In contrast, enduring forms of plasticity that are dependent on presynaptic PKA were unaffected. Furthermore, these mice did not display exaggerated metabotropic glutamate receptor-mediated long-term synaptic depression (mGluR-LTD), a hallmark of the FMRP KO mice. On the contrary, translin KO mice exhibited deficits in N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) dependent LTD, a phenotype not observed in the FMRP knockouts. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that translin/trax mediates long-term synaptic plasticity that is dependent on postsynaptic PKA signaling and suggest that translin/trax and FMRP play distinct roles in hippocampal synaptic plasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alan Jung Park
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA. .,Gogos Lab, Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Jerome L. Greene Science Center, Columbia University, L5-053, 3227 Broadway, New York, NY, 10027, USA.
| | - Mahesh Shivarama Shetty
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, 2-471 Bowen Science Building, 51 Newton Road, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA.,Iowa Neuroscience Institute, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, 2312 Pappajohn Biomedical Discovery Building, 169 Newton Road, Iowa City, 52242, IA, USA
| | - Jay M Baraban
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ted Abel
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA. .,Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, 2-471 Bowen Science Building, 51 Newton Road, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA. .,Iowa Neuroscience Institute, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, 2312 Pappajohn Biomedical Discovery Building, 169 Newton Road, Iowa City, 52242, IA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|